Interpretation #7644

Original Request

Code Version: 2014
Code: ELECTRIC
Code Description
Chapter
Section: 230.70 (A) (1) and 230.91
Topic: Length of service conductors

Question

I have been told that I can not exceed 6 feet from my meter to my electrical panel with service conductors, but it is on the adjacent wall in the garage per their interpretation of the code. There does not appear to be a local technical amendment posted at www.floridabuilding.org either. Does the electrical code have a specific dimension? Would this be considered a local technical amendment that is only enforceable after proper adoption?

Answer Published 10/06/2015 at 9:54 AM

"Nearest point of entrance of the service conductors" are
the words in the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70). If the
AHJ determines the other side of the garage is not the
nearest point, that is up to them, this is not an amendment
to the code rather an interpretation of "nearest point of
entrance".
The code does not have a limiting dimension because each
installation is different. No, this does not need an
amendment.

Commentary

Interpretations are by request to the local officials, If you disagree with the interpretation of the code official, you should first discuss it the local building official and if you cannot find resolution go to Fl Statute 553.775 and follow the statutory procedures. This is actually the AHJ being flexible in allowing you to go that far before installing a disconnect. Some areas may allow up to 6 feet, some up to 10 feet in an effort to be reasonable. See 90.2, (C) of the NEC, the disconnect must be located as near as practicable to where the conductors enter the building. Otherwise it would need to be encased per 230.6.