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Friday, December 25, 2020

Question:

Happy Holidays Code Question of the Day. I can't find in the NEC where there is a limitation on length for service conductors that enter a building to terminate in service disconnecting means located inside. Is there a length limit?

Scott Preston

A

Answer:

Hi Scott,

Thanks for the question and the holiday wishes. You are correct; the NEC does not have a length limit that must not be exceeded for this installation type. Section 230.70(A)(1) indicates that the service disconnecting means be readily accessible and located either outside the building or structure or located inside nearest the service conductors' point of entrance. Services vary in size, and what may be accomplished for a small service may not be for a large service. To include a specific length here in the NEC could create an overly restrictive requirement. We are aware some local inspection jurisdictions do address this with a maximum length. This section's key is to limit the length of unprotecting service entrance conductors within the building or structure.  We hope everyone has a Happy and Safe Holiday Season. 

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