Copyright© 2019 National Fi1·e Protection Association®. All Rights Reserved.

NFPA 70®

National Electrical Code®

2020 Edition

T his edition of NFPA 70, NatjonalElecliical Cndf, was prepa1·ed by the National Elecu·ical Code
Committee and acted on by NFPA at it~June Association Tech nica l Meeting held June l 7-20, 2019,
in San Aiuonio, T X. It was issued by the Stanclarcl~ Council 0 11 August 5, 2019, with an effective dare
ofAugu~t25, 2019, and supe1·se<les all previous editions.
This Code was issued with Tentative Interim Ainendmen ts (T!As) that impacted provisions in
210.52(C)(2), 240.67'(C), 240.87 (C), 72Fi.l 21 (C), and Aimex D:t For more information on TIAs, see
www.nfpa.org/ 70 and Section 5 of the Regulalions Goveming the Devewjmumt of NFPA Standards
available al www.nfpa.org/ regs.
This edition of NFPA 70was approved as an Am erican Nationa l Standard 0 11 Au gust 25, 2019.

History and Development of the National Electrirol Code®

The National Fin.' Protection A~sociation has acted a~ spo nsor of the NationolE[r,rtr/1:"l Cod11 since
l 9 I l. The m·igina l Code document was developed in I 897 as a result of the united efforts of vari01.L5
insurance, e lec:u·ical, architectural , and a llied i.nteresL~.
In accordance with the R egulations Governing the DevP!ofnnenl of NFPA Standards, a National Elertiicn.l
Corle first draft 1·epo1·t con taining proposed amenrlme n t~ to the 20 17 Nationall.tPctrfol1l Code was
published by NFPA inJ uly 20 J 8. This report recorded the actions of the va1fom code-making panels
and tl1e correlating committee oftJ1e Na tional Electrical Code Committee on each public input and
first revision th at had been made to revise the 2017 Code. The report wa5 published at
www.nfjJa.org/ 70. Following th e close oftJ1e pltblic commenl period, the code-making pane ls me t,
acted on e ac h comment, and created s(1111e second revisions, which were reported to the correla ting
committee. NFPA published d1e MilionalEleclrical Code second draft report in April 2019, which
recorded the actions of the code-maki.ng panel.5 a nd th e correla ting committee on each public
comme nt on the National Electrical Code Committee first. draflre port. The National Eln-triml Code
firs t draft report and the Natinnal ElPctrical Code second draft report were presented to the 2019 June
A5sociation Technical Meeting for adoption.
NFPA has a n Electrical Section that provides particular opportunity fo ,- NFPA membe rs interested
in electrical safety to become better informed a nd to conu·i bute to the development o f IJ1e Nntional
Elflrtrital Code and other NFPA electrica.l standards. At IJ1e Elecu<ical Section codes and standards
review session held at IJ1e 2019 NFPA Confe rence a nd Expo, section memb e rs had the oppornmicy
to discLL5S and review d1 e report of d1e Nation al Eleclr ical Code Committee prior to the adoption of
this edition of IJ1e Code by the association at iL~ 20.1 9 June Technical Meeting.
This 55d1 edition supersedes all othe1· previou.~ edition.~, supple men L~. a nd printings dated l897,
1899, L901, 1903, 1904, 1905, 1907, 1909, 1911 , 191 3, 19 15, l9 L8, 1920, 1923, 1925, 1926, 1928, 1930,
1931 , 1933, 1935, l937, 1940, 1942, 1943, 1947, 1949, 1951, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 19.59,
1962, 1965, 1968, 1971, 1975, l 978, 1981. 1984, 1987, 1990, 1993, 1996, 1999, 2002, 2005, 2008, 2011 ,
2014, and 2017.
This Code is purely advi6or y as far as NFPA is con cerned. It is made availa ble for a wide variety of
both public and private uses in the inte rest of life and properl.)' protection. These include both u se in
law a nd for regu latory purpt)$es a nd u~e in private self-regula tion and standardizatio n activities such
as insuran ce underwriting, building and faci lities construc tion and management, a nd product
testing a nd certification.

NFPA 70. Nationa l Electrical Code. NFPA a nd National Fire Pror.ect.ion A~sociatio11 a re regi,t~red trademarks of lhe NaLiona l Fire P ro1cction A_<;sociation .
Quincy, Ma.~sachusetts 1l'.!16!l.
 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

Contents

90 Introduction ............................. ............................ 70- 29 Pan ILL Grounding Elecrrocle System and Grounding
Electrode Conductor ........................................... 70- 120
Chapter I General Pare IV. Enclosure, Raceway, and Service Cable
100 Definitions ........................................................... . 70- 32 Connections......................................................... 70- 125
Pan!. General ..................... ................................... ........ . 70- 32 Pan \I. Bonding ................................................................ 70- 125
Pan II. Over !000 VolL~, Nominal ................................... . 70- 41 Pan VI. Equipmem Grounding and Equipmem
Pan Ill. Hazardous (Classified) Locations (CMP-14) .... 70- 42 Grounding Conductors....................................... 70- 129
JIO Requirements for Eleci:rical Installations .......... . 70- 46 Pan Vil. Mei hods of Equipment Grounding Conductor
Pan!. General .............. ....... .................... ....................... . 70- 46 Connections.......................................... ............... 70- 133
Pan II. !000 Volts, Nominal, or Less .................... .......... . 70- 50 Pan VIII. Direct-Cur-re nt Systems ........................................ 70- 135
Pan Ill. Over I 000 Volrs, Nominal ... .......... ..... ............... .. . 70- 52 Pan IX. lnstrumems, Meters, and Relays......................... 70- 136
Pan IV. Tunnel lnstallaLions over 1000 Volts, Nominal .. 70- 55 PanX. Grounding of Systems and Circuits of ove.r
Pan V. Manholes and Other Electrical Enclosu res 1000 VolL~ ............................................................ . 70- 137
Intended for Personnel Entry ............................ . 70- !'i6
Chapter 3 Wiring Methods and Matedals
Chapter 2 Wiring and Protection 300 General Requirements for Wiring Me tl1ods an(l
200 Use and IdenLilicat.ion of Grounded Materials . ............................................................. . 70- 140
Conductors .................................... ............... ........ 70- 58 Part l. General Requirements .......................... .............. . 70- 140
210 Branch Circuits .............................., .................... . 70- 60 Part II . Requ irements for over IOOO Volts, Nominal ..... . 70- 149
Part I. Genera I Provisions .............................................. . 70- 60 310 Conductors for General W iling ......................... . 70- 15.1
Pan 11. Branch-Circuit Ratings ...... ..... .......... .................. . 70- 65 Part J. General ......... ........................................ ............... . 70- 15.1
Part UI. Required Outlets ......................................... ........ . 70- 68 Part ll . Consr.ruction Speci fic;it.ions ............................... . 70- 15]
215 Feeders ...................................... .................... ....... . 70- 71 Part Ill. Installation ............ ............................................... . 70- 156
220 Branch-Circuit, Feeder, and Service Load 311 Medium Vollage Conductors and Cable ........... . 70- 165
CalcuJations ........................................ ................. . 70- 73 Pa rt J. General ............................. .................... .......... ..... . 70- 16!'i
Part I. Genera l ................ ................................................ . 70- 73 Pan 11 . Construct.ion Spec.ilicat.ions .......................... ..... . 70- 165
Pan 11. Branch-Circuit Load CalcuJations ............. .... ..... . 70- 74 Pan !IL Installation .. ......................................................... . 70- 167
Pan Ill. Feeder and Service Load Calcu lations .............. . 70- 7fi Part IV. Ampacities ........................................................... . 70- 168
Part rv: 0 pt.ion a I Feeder and Service Load 312 CabineLS, Cutout Boxes, ru1d Meter Socket
CalctLlations ......................................................... . 70- 79 Enclosures ............................................................ 70- 170
Pan V. Farm Load Calculat.ions .............................. , ....... . 70- 81 Part I. Scope and Installation ........................................ . 70- 170
225 Outside Branch Circuits and Feeders ................. 70- 82 P art II . Construction Sped lica1.ions .......................... ..... . 70- 182
Pan I. General ................................................... ............. . 70- 82 314 Outlet. Device, Pull, and Junction Boxes ;
Pan II. Bu[ldlngs or Otl1er Su·ucrures Supplied by a Conduft Bodies: F,rt.ings; and Handhole
Feeder(s) o r Brandi Circuit(s) ................... ....... . 70- 85 Endosures .. ..... .................................................... . 70- 182
Pan Ill. Over 1000 Vol LS............ ....................................... . 70- 86 P art I. Scope and General .............................................. . 70- 182
230 Services .............................. .................................. . 70- 88 Pan LI . Installation ........................................................... . 70- 183
Part I. General ................ ................................................ . 70- 88 Part 111. Construction Spec.i licat.ions ............................... . 70- 18!)
Pan II. Overhead Service Conducto rs ........... ..... ............ . 70- 89 Pan lV. Prill ancl.JuncL.ion Boxes, Conduit Bodies, ru1d
Part IIL Underground Service Conductors .... ................. . 70- 90 Hanclho le Enclosures for Use on Systems over
Part rv: Service-En trance Conductors ............................. . 70- 91 1000 Voll~, Nominal ......................................... ... . 70- 189
PanV. Service Equipment - General ........................... 70- 93 320 Armored Cable: Type AC .................................... . 70- 190
Part VI. Service Equ ipment- Disconnecting Means .... . 70- 9,1 Part I. Genera.I .................................. ........... ,.. ,......... , ..... . 70- 190
Pan Vil . Service Equipment- Overcurrent Protect.ion .. 70- 95 Part II . Installation ........................................................... . 70- 190
Pan VUI. Services Exceeding l 000 Volts, Nominal ............ 70- 96 Pan Ill. Construction Sped lications ............................... . 70- 191
240 Overcurrent Protection ....... ............... ..... ........... . 70- 97 322 Flat Cable AssembJies: Type FC .......................... . 70- 191
Part I. General .......................... ............... ....................... . 70- 97 Pa n I. Genera.I ................................................ ,............... . 70- 191
Part II. Location ....................... .................... .................... . 70- 101 Part II . Installation ........................................................... . 70- 192
Pan IIL Enclosures ................................................. .......... . 70- 104 P an Ill. Construct.ion Spedlka1.ions .......................... ..... . 70- 192
Pan rv: Disconnecting and Guarding ............................. . 70- 104 324 Flat Conducrnr Cahle: Type FCC ........., ............. . 70- 192
PanV. Plug Fuse$, Fwe ho ldus, a nd Adapters .............. 70- 104 Pan I. General ................................................................ . 70- 192
Part VI. Cartridge Fuses and Fuse hold ers ..................... .. . 70- 104 Part LI . Installation ........................................................... . 70- 193
Pan VU. Circu.it Breakers ........................................ .......... . 70- 10.5 P a rt 111. Construct.ion Sped lica1.ions ............................... . 70- 194
Pan VIU. Supervised lndusi:rial Installations ..................... . 70- 107 326 lnregraLed G,,;; Spacer Cable: Type l GS .............. 70- 194
Part IX. Overcurrent Protection over 1000 Volts, Part I. Genera.I ................................................................ . 70- 194
Nominal ............................................................... . 70- 108 Pan II . Installation ........................... ................................ . 70- 194
242 Overvohage P rotection ............. .......................... . 70- 109 Part LI 1. Construct.ion Speci lkatinns ............................... . 70- 195
Part I. General ......................................... ....................... . 70- 109 330 Metal-Clad Cable: Type MC ........ , ....................... . 70- 195
Parr II. Surge-Protective Devices (SPDs), 1000 Volts or P art 1. Genera l ................................................................. 70- 195
L ess ......................................................... ............. . 70- 109 Part n. fnstallation ...................... ...................................... 70- 195
Part IIL Surge Arresters, Over l000 Volrs ................. ....... . 70- 1 IO P art UL Construction Specifications............................... . 70- 197
250 Grounding and Bonding .................................... . 70- 111 332 M.ine ral-lnsulated. Meta.I-Sheathed Cable: Type
Part I. General ................ ................................... ............. . 70- 111 Ml ......... ..... ....................................................... .... 70- 197
Pan II. Sy~tem Ground.ing .............................................. . 70- 113 Part l. General ............................................ ..................... 70- 197
Pan II. Installation ..................................... ..... ..... ............. 70- 197

70-2 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition

 CONTENTS

Part ill. Construction Specifications ................................ 70- 198 360 Flexible Metallic U 1bing: Type FMT ........ ........... 70- 21H
334 Nonme calJic.Sheathed Cable: Types NM and Part l. General ...................................................... ..... ...... 70- 21 ~)
NMC ...................................................................... 70- 198 PartJI. Installation ............................................... ..... ........ 70- 220
Pan I. Ge neral ..................... .......... .................................. 70- 198 Part III. Construction Specifications ...... .......................... 70- 220
Pan IJ . Installation ............................................................ 70- 198 362 Electrical Nonmetallic Tubing: Type ENT ......... 70- 220
Part llJ. Construnion Specifications................................ 70- 200 Part 1. General ......... ............................................. ..... ...... 70- 220
336 Power a nd Contro l Tray Cable: Type TC ...... ...... 70- 200 Part II. Installation ..................... ............................... ........ 70- 221
Pan I. Ge neral ..................... .......... .................................. 70- 200 Pan II I. Consu·uction Specifications ................................ 70- 222
Pan 11. Installation ............................................................ 70- 200 366 Auxiliary Gmters ............................................ ...... 70- 222
Pan llJ. Construction Specifications ................................ 70- 201 Part I. Ge neral ......... ..... ........................................ ........... 70- 222
337 Type P Cable ............................ ............................. 70- 202 Pa rt II. Installation ....... ............................................. ........ 70- 222
Pan I. General ................................................................. 70- 202 Pa rtJII. Construction Specifications ................................ 70- 223
Part II. lnstallai,ion ............................. ............................... 70- 202 368 Busways ..................... ..... .............................. ........ 70- 224
Part IIJ. Constructio n Speci ficatio ns ............................ .... 70- 202 Pa rt I. General Requirem en L, ..................... .................... 70- 224
338 Service•Entrance Cable: Types SE and USE ....... 70- 202 Part JI. Installatjon ....... ........................................ ............. 70- 224
Pare I. Gene ral ............................... ..... ............................. 70- 202 Part II I. Consu·uction ............................................... .......... 70- 225
Pare II. I.nstallation ............................................................ 70- 203 Part IV. Require ments for Over 1000 Vo lts, Nominal ..... 70- 225
Pare Ill. Construction Specifications............................ .... 70- 203 370 Cablebus ......... ...................................................... 70- 226
340 Underg rounp Feeder a nd Branch-Circuit Part I. General .............. ................................................... 70- 226
Cable: Type U F ..................................................... 70- 204 Part II. Installation ....... .............. .......................... ..... ........ 70- 226
Pan I. Ge neral ............................... .................................. 70- 204 PartJIJ. Construction Specifications ...... ..... ..................... 70- 227
Part IL lnstalla1.ion ............................. ............................... 70- 204 372 Cellular Co.ncrete Floor Raceways ...................... 70- '1.27
Pan Ill. Construction Specificatio ns ............................ .... 70- 204 Pa rt I. General ................................................. ..... ..... ...... 70- 227
342 Inte rmediate Me tal Conduit: Type IMC ............. 70- 204 PartJl. Installations.......................................................... 70- 227
Part I. Gene ral ................................................................. 70- 204 374 Cellular Metal Floor R<1ceways ............................ 70- 228
Pan IJ . Installatio n ............................................................ 70- 204 Pan I. General .... .................................................. ,.......... 70- 228
Part Ill. Construction Specifications ................................ 70- 206 Pan II. Inst.a.llario ,1 ............................................................ 70- 228
34.4 Rigid Mew.I Conduit; Type RMC ......................... 70- 20fi Pan III. Construction SpecHic<1Lions ................................ 70- 229
Pan J. General..................... ............................................ 70- 206 376 Meta.I W.i reways ......... ..................,......................... 70- 229
Pan IJ . Installation .................................. .......................... 70- 206 Pan I. Ge nera.I .... ............... ......................... .......... ........... 70- 229
Pm·1.JJI. Construe Lio n Speci ficatjo ns .................. .............. 70- 207 Pan II. Insta.llation ............................................................ 70- 229
348 Flexible Meta.I Conduji: Type FMC ..................... 70- 207 Part Ill. Constrnction Specitications ...... .......................... 70- 230
Pm·tJ. General .......................... ..... .................................. 70- 207 378 Nonrneta.11.ic Wireways ........................... ..... .......... 70- 230
P,u·1. Il . Installatio n ............................................................ 70- 208 Pan I. Genera.I ...................................................... ........... 70- 230
350 Li9ufrltigh1. Flexible Meta.I Conduit: Type Panll. Insta.llarion ............................................................ 70- 230
LFMC ......... .................... ..... .................................. 70- 209 Part III. Consu·uction Specifications................................ 70- 231
P,u·i.J. General . ......................... ..... .................................. 70- 209 380 Mult.ioutlet A,sembly ........ ..... .............................. 70- 231
PmT JJ. Insta llatio n ............................. ............................... 70- 209 Part I. General .... ............... ................................... ..... ...... 70- 231
Pm·1. JJJ.. Conslructio n Specifications .................. .............. 70- 2l0 Part II. Insta.llarion ....... ..................................................... 70- 231
352 Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride Conduit: Type PVC ..... 70- 210 382 Nonme ta.llic Extensio ns ....................................... 70- 232
Pm·tl. General.......................... ....................................... 70- 210 Pan I. General .... ............... ................................... ........... 70- 232
Pm·1. IJ. InsLallation ............................. ............................... 70- 210 Partll. Inst.a.ll<1tion ....... ..................................................... 70- 232
Pm·1. HI. Construction Speci ficatjo ns .................. .............. 70- 212 Part fl l. Const.ruction Spedtic<1tio ns ( Concealable
353 High De nsity Polyethyle ne Conduit: Type Nonmeta.llit Extensio ns Only) ............................ 70- 233
HOPE Conduit ..................................................... 70- 212 384 Strm-Type C han nel Ritceway .................. ............. 70- 233
Pan. I. General................................................................. 70- 212 Pan I. Ge neral ................................................................. 70- 233
PmT JJ. lnsta ll<1tion ....................................... ..................... 70- 213 Pa rt II. Insta.llarion ....... ..................................................... 70- 233
Pm·1. Ill. Construction Specificatio ns................................ 70- 213 Pan III. Const.met.ion Spec:ificatio.ns ..................... ........... 70- 234
354 Nonmeta!Ec Unde rground CondniL with 386 Surface Metal Raceways ................ .......... ............. 70- 234.
Conductors: Type NUCC .............................. ....... 70- 213 P<1rt I. Gene ral ...................................................... ........... 70- 234
Pm·1. J. General................................................................. 70- 213 Pan II. lnsta.11<\rion ....... ..................................................... 70- 234
P,u·1. .U . Installation ............................................................ 70- 214 Pan Ill. Consm,ction Specifications........... ..................... 70- 23.5
PmT JJJ.. Constructio n Sped ficatio ns .................. .............. 70- 214 388 Surface Nonmetallic Raceways ............................ 70- 23.5
355 Reinforced The rmosetting Resin Conduit: Type Pan L General ......... ........................................................ 70- 23.5
RTRC .......................... ..... .......... ............................ 70- 215 Pan II. Insmllation ............................................................ 70- 23.5
Pm·tl. General ...... .................... ..... .................................. 70- 2 15 Part III. Construction Specifications................................ 70- 236
Part JJ. Installation ............................................................ 70- 215 390 Unde rfloor Raceways ....................... ........,........... 70- 236
P,u·1. JJJ.. Construnion Specificarjons ................................ 70- 216 Pan l. Gene ra l ......... ............................................. ........... 70- 236
356 Liqu.idtigh1. Flexible Nonmeta.llic Condu.it: Type Part II. Installation ............................................................ 70- 236
LFNC ..................................................................... 70- 217 392 C,ble Trays........................................................... 70- 237
P,u·1. J. Gene ral..................... ............................................ 70- 217 P<1nl. Ge ne ra l ................................................................. 70- 237
Pan JJ. Installation ............................................................ 70- 217 Pan IL Installation ............................................................ 70- 237
Pm·1. lJJ. Construct.ion Specifications................................ 70- 218 Pan Ilf. Consu·uction Specifications........... ..................... 70- 24'1.
358 Elec1.rica.l Memllic Tabing: Type El\1T ............... . 70- 218 393 Low-Vo ltage Suspended Ceiling Power
Parl I. Gene ra l ..................... ..... ....................................... 70- 218 Disuibution Sys1.ems ............................................ 70- 244
Pan ll . Lnsmllation ................... ......................................... 70- 218 Partl. Genera l ................................................. ..... ........... 70- 244
Pan ill. ConsLrucLio n Specifi.caLio ns ............................ .... 70- 219 Pan IL Insmllat.ion ....... ..................................................... 70- 244

2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL £ LllCTRIC"AL CODE 70-3

 NATIONAL ELEl.'TRICAL CODE

Part 111. Co nstrucr.ion Speci~icar.ions ....................... ......... 70- 245 Pan H . Installatio n .. ..... ..... .......... ..... .......... ..... .......... ........ 70- 29 1
394 Concealed Kno b-and-Tube Wiring..................... 70- 246 Pa rt Ill. Co ntrol and Pro tection of Fixed Elecuic Space-
Part I. General ........... .......... ............................................ 70- 246 Hea tingEquiprnem ........... .................................. 70- 292
Part II. lnstallaLinn .................................. ......................... . 70- 246 Pan IV. Ma rking of Heating Equipment .......................... 70- 2!J!l
Parr Ill. Constructio n Specilicatio ns ................................ 70- 246 Part V. Eleco·ic Space-Healing Cables ............................. 70- 293
396 Messenger-S1.1pported Witing .............................. 70- 247 Part VJ. Duct Heaters ..... ..... .................... ......................... . 70- 295
Part I. General ........... .......... .......... .......... ............... ......... 70- 247 Pa rt Vil. Resistance-Type Bo ilers ....... .......... ..... .................. 70- 295
Part II. lnstallaifon ......... .............................. ..................... 70- 247 Parl VIII . Elecu-ode-Type Boile rs ......................................... 70- 2!J6
398 Open Wiring on Insulators ................... ..... ......... 70- 247 Part IX. Electric Radiant Healing Panels and H earing
Part I. General ........... ... ....... ................................... ......... 70- 247 Pa nel Sets .... .......... .......... ............... ..... .................. 70- 297
Part II. Installation ......... ............... ............... ..................... 70- 248 Pa rt X. Low-Voltage Fixed Elecu·ic Space-H eating
Part Ill. Constn.telitrn Specilicar.io ns ....................... ......... 70- 24!J Equipmem .... ....................................................... . 70- 2!J8
399 Outdoo r Overhead Conductors over 425 Fixed Resistance and Electrode lndusrriaJ
I 000 Volts ............ ............... ..... ............... ..... ......... 70- 24\l Process Heating Equipment ........ ........................ 70- 2!)!J
Part I. General ......... .......... .............................. .......... ...... 70- 2!J9
Chapter 4 Equipment for General Use Pa n II. Installation ............................................... ............. 70- 2\l!J
400 F1ex.ible Cords a nd Flexible Cables ..................... 70- 250 Part Ill. Control and Protection of Fix ed rndusuial
Pan I. Gene ral ................ ................................................. 70- 250 Process Heatin g Equipmen t ............. .......... ......... 70- 299
Pan ll. Construction Specificatio ns ................................ 70- 259 Pa rt IV. Ma rking of Heating Equipment ............. ............. 70- 30 I
Pan Ill. Po rtable Cables Over 600 Volts, Nominal .......... 70- 260 Part V. Fixed Industrial Process Duct H eaters.............. . 70- 301
402 Fixrnre Wires .......................................... .............. 70- 260 Pa rt VJ. Fixed Industrial Process Resistance-Type
404 Switc hes....................... ............... .......... ................ 70- 263 Boile rs ....................... .............. .......... ............... ..... 70- 30 I
Pant. lnswllation ............................................................ 70- 263 Pa rt Vll. Fixed Indusu-ial Process Electrode-Type Boile rs 70- 302
Pan II. Construct.ion SpecificaLio ns ............................... . 70- 266 426 Fixed Outdoor Electric De.icing and Snow-
406 ReceJJtacles. Cord Connectors, a nd Attachmem Melting Equipment .............................. .......... ...... 70- 303
Plugs (Caps) .................... .................... ...... .......... . 70- 266 Part I. Gene ral ......... .......... ............... ............................... 70- 303
408 S"ilch boards. Switch gear, and Pane.lboards ...... 70- 27l PartJ I. Installatio n ........................... ................................. 70- ?,()3
Pan I. General . ............... ................................................. 70- 271 Part 111. Resistance H eating Eleme n ts ......... ..... ................ 70- 303
Pan II. Switchboards and Switchgear .............................. 70- 273 Part IV: Impedance.Heating ............................................. 70- ?,04
Pan Ill. Panelboards ......................................................... . 70- 273 Pa rt V. Skin-Effect Heating................ .................... .......... 70- ?.04
Pan lV. Construct.ion Specitications ................................ 70- 274 Pa rt VI. Conu·ol and Protection............. .................... ..... . 70- 305
409 Ind ustrial Comro l Pane ls ................................... . 70- 275 427 Fixed E lectric Healing Equipment for Pipelines
Pan I. Gene ra l ........... ..... ............... ................................. . 70- 275 and Vessels .................. ..... ................................... .. 70- '.305
Pan ll. lnswllation ........................ .................... ............... . 70- 275 Pa rt I. Gene ral ......... .......... ..... .................... ..... ..... ........... 70- 305
Pan Ill. Construct.ion Specifications ............................... . 70- 276 Pa rt II. Installatio n ...................... ..... .................... ............. 70- 306
410 Lurninaires, L·unpho lders. and Lamps .............. . 70- 277 Part Ill. Resistance Heating Eleme n ts .............. ................ 70- 306
Pan I. General ............ ... ................................................ . 70- 277 Pan IV. Impedance Heating ............................. ..... ........... 70- ?,06
Pan II. L urninaire Locations ..................... ...................... . 70- 278 Part V. Induction Heating ........................... ............... ..... 70- 307
Pan Ill. Provisions at L urninaire OLuJet Boxes. Pa rt VJ. Skin-Effect Heating.............................................. 70- 307
Canopies, a nd Pans ............................................. . 70- 279 Pa rt VU. Co n tro l and Protection............. ......................... . 70- 307
Pan Iv. Lurninaire Supports ............................................ . 70- 279 430 Molars, Moto r Circui tS, anrl Contro llers .. .......... 70- 308
PanV. Grnuncling ............... ............................................. 70- 280 Pa n I. General ................... ..... ............... .......... .......... ...... 70- 308
PanVL Wiring of Lu minaires ....... ............... .................... . 70- 280 Pan II. Molar CircuitCondncLOrs ................................... 70-- 31'.3
Pan Vil. Construct.ion of Lumina.ires ............................... . 70- 282 Pa n Ill . MoLOr and Branch-Circuit O verload P rotection 70- 315
Part VW . lns ta.llalion of Lampho lde rs ............................... . 70- 282 PanlV. Molar Branch -Circuil Sho n -Circuit and
Parr IX. Lamps and Aux.iliary Equipmem ..... .................. . 70- 282 Ground-Fault Protectlon ..................................... 70- 318
PanX. Special Provisions for Flush and Recessed Pa nV. MoLOr Feed er Sh on-Ci rcu it and Ground-Fault
L wninaires ..... ...................................................... 70- 282 Protect.io n ............................................................. 70- 321
Part XI. Construction of Flush a nd Recessed PanVl. Molar Comro l CircL1its ........................................ 70- 321
L wninaires .......................................................... . 70- 283 Pa n VII. Moto r Comrollers .. ............... ............................... 70- 32'.1
Pan XII. Special Provisions for Elecu·ic-Discharge PanVIII. Motor Concrol Ceme.rs ........................................ 70- 324
Lighting Systems of 1000 Vo ll~ o r Less .............. . 70- 283 Part I X. Disconnecting Means ........................................... 70- 3:!5
P artXIU. Special Provisions for Eleco·ic-Discharge PartX. AqjusL-ible-Speed D rive Systems ................... ....... 70- 327
Lighting Systems of More Tha n JOO() Volts ........ 70- 284 Pan XL. O ver 1000 Volt5, Nomina l .................................... 70- 329
Part XIV. Lighting Track ............. ........................................ . 70- 285 Part XU. Protect.ion of Live Paris - All Voltage-'> .............. 70- 3'.10
P an XV: Decor ative Lighting and Similar Accessories .... . 70- 285 Pa rt XUL Ground.ing· - All Voltages ... .......... ..................... 70- 330
Pru·t XVI. Special ProvLqions for H n rriculrural Lighting Pan XIV. Tables .............. ..... ..... ..... ..... ..... ............... .............. 70- 330
Equ.ipment ........................................................... . 70- 285 440 _Ajr,Co nd.itjoning and Refrigerating Equipment 70- 335
411 L ow-Vo ltage Lig h ting .......................................... . 70- 286 Pa rt I. General ................... ............... ..... .................... ...... 70- 335
422 Appliru1ees .................. ......................... ................ . 70- 286 Pa n II. Disconnecting Means ........................................... 70-- 336
Part I. General .......................... .................... .................. . 70- 286 Pan Ill. Branch-C ircuit ShortcCircuiL and Ground-Fault.
P an II. los wJlation ........................................................... . 70- 287 Protection ...... .................................................. ..... 70- 337
Pru·r m. DisconnecLi.ng Mean s .............................. ............. 70- 289 Pan rv. Branch -CircuiL Conducto rs ................................. 70-- 338
Part IV. Construction ........................................................ . 70- WO Pa rt V. Conlrollers for Motor,Compressors .................... 70-- 339
Part V. Marking ............................................................... . 70- 291 PartVI. Moto r-Compressor anrl B ranch.{;ircu.iL
424. Fixed Elecuic Space-Heating Eqttip me nt ......... . 70- 291 Overload Protection . ..... .................... ............... .. 70- 339
Part I. General .............................................. .................. . 70- 291 Pan VII. Provisions for Room Air Cond itione rs .. .......... ... 70-- 340

70-4 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020falition

 CONTENTS

445 Generators ............................................................ 70- 340 Part \IL Communications, Signaling Systems, Daca
450 Transfom1ers an(! Transformer Vaults Systems, Fire Alarm Systems, and Systems Less
(Indu!iing Secondary Ties) .. .............................. 70- 34'.:' Than .120 Volts, Nominal ..................................... 70- 450
Part I. General Provisions .......... ............... ...................... 70- 34'.:' Pa rt VU. Isolated Power Systems ....................................... 70- 451
Pan II. Specifi c Provisions Applicable to Differem 518 Assembly Occupancies ......................................... 70- 452
Types ofTransfonners ..................... .................... 70- 346 520 Theaters, Audience Areas of Mocion Picture
Pan Ill. Transfom1er Vaults ............... ..... ............... , ........... 70- 348 and Tele,isio n Studios, Perfornrnnce Areas, and
455 Pha~e Converters ......... ......................................... 70- 349 Similar Locations ......... ........................................ 70- 453
Pan I. General ............................... ..... ............................. 70- 349 Part!. General .............. ........................................ ........... 70- 453
Part U. Specitic Provisions Applicable to Differe nt Part U. Fixed Stage Switc hboards .................................... 70- 454
Types of Phase Conveners ................................... 70- 350 Part ll l. Fixed Stage Equipmem O1.he rThan
460 Capacitors ............................................................ . 70- 350 Swiech boards........................................................ 70- 455
Part I. 1000 Volts, Nominal, and Under ........................ 70- 3.50 Pa rt IV. Portable Switchboards on Stage.......................... 70- 457
Pan II. Over 1000 Volts, Nominal ................................. ... 70- 351 Part \I. Portable Scage Equipmem Other Tirnn
470 Resistors a nd Reactors ........................ ................ . 70- 352 Switch boards................................. ....................... 70- 459
Part I. 1000 Volts, Nominal, and Under ........................ 70- 352 Pa rt VI. Dressing Rooms, Dressing Areas, and Makeup
Part II. Over l000 Volts, Nominal .................................... 70- 352 Areas. ........ .................... ........................................ 70- 460
480 Storage Batteries .................................................. 70- 352 Part VU. Equipmen t Groundjng Conductor ..................... 70- 460
490 Equipmem Over 1000 Volts, Nominal ................ 70- 3.55 522 Comrol Systems fo r Pe rma nen1 Amusement
Part I. General ................................................................ . 70- 355 Am-actions ............................................................ 70- 461
Part IL Equi pment- Specific Provisions ..................... .. 70- 355 Pa rLl. General ...................................................... ........... 70- 461
Pan IU. Equipmem - Switchgear a nd Industrial Part II. Comrol Circujts .................................................... 70- 461
Con trol Assemblies .............................................. 70- 357 Pa rt .II I. Com rol Circuit Wiring Methods ......................... 70- 461
Parr IV. Mobile and Porrable Equipmen t ....................... . 70- 359 525 Carnivals, Circuses, Fairs, and Similar Events .... 70- 462
Parr V. Electrode-Type Bo ile rs ..................... ................... . 70- 360 Pan I. General Require ments ......................................... 70- 462
Part II. Pm~er Sources ...................................................... 70- 463
Chapter 5 Special Occupancies PartJII. Wiring Methods ........................................ ........... 70- 463
500 Hazardous (Classitied) Locations, ChL~ses I, LI. Part IV. Equipment Groundjng and Bonding ................. 70- 464
a.nd Ill, Divisio ns l and 2 ... .................... .............. 70- 361 530 Motion Picture and Television. Studios a nd
50 1 Class I Locations ................................................... 70- 368 Similar Locations ................................................. 70- 464
Pan L Gene ml ............................... .................................. 70- 368 Pa rt I. General .... ..................................................... ,....... 70- 464
Pan II. Wiring................................................................... 70- 368 Pa rt II. Stage or Set ........................................................... 70- 465
Pan Ill. Equipment............................................................ 70- 373 Part JI I. Dressing Rooms .................................................... 70- 467
502 Class II Locations ..........,...... .......... ...................... 70- 377 Part IV. Viewing, Cutting, and Patching Tables ............... 70- 467
Pan I. Gene ra l ................................................................. 70- 377 Part V. Cellulose Nitrate Film Storage Vaults ................. 70- 467
Pan II. Wiring ....................... .......... .................................. 70- 378 Part \IL Substatfons ............................................................ 70- 467
Pan Ill. Equipment .................................... ........................ 70- 380 540 Motion Pic1ure Projection Roo ms...................... 70- 467
503 Class Ill Locations ..................... ........................... 70- 383 Parr 1. General ...................................................... ........... 70- 467
Pan L Gene ml ............................... .................................. 70- 383 Parrll. Equipmen Land Prqjectors ofL11e Professio nal
Pan IL Wirin g................................................................... 70- 383 Type ............................................................. .......... 70- 467
Pan Ill. Equipmen t ............................................................ 70- 384 Part 11 1. Nonprofessional Projectors ................................. 70- 468
504 Intrinsically Safe Systems ............................... ...... 70- 386 Part IV. Audio Signal Processing, Amplification, a nd
505 Zone 0, l , ,md 2 Locations .................................. 70- 388 Reproduction Equipment.......... ......................... 70- 468
506 Zone 201 21, a nd 22 Locations for Combus1jb(e 545 Mamtfacturecl Bu il(lings a nd Relocmahle
Dusts o r lgnitible Fibe rs/ flyings ......................... 70- 402 Sa·unures .................................................. ........... 70- 4(j8
510 Hazardous (Classified ) Locations - Specific .... 70- 408 Pa rt I. General .............. ................................................... 70- 468
511 Commercia.l Garages, Repair and Smrage ......... 70- 409 Part II. Relocatable Strucnires ................ .. ....................... 70- 469
513 Aircraft Hangars ................. .................................. 70- 411 547 AgricuJLura l Builrlings ................................ .......... 70- 470
5 14 MOLor Fuel D ispensing Facilities ......................... 70- 414 550 Mobile H omes. Manufacwr ed H omes, and
515 Bulk Storage Plants .............................................. 70- 420 Mobile H ome P ark!,............................................. 70- 4i2
516 Spray Application, Dipping, Coating, and Pan I. General ...................................................... ........... 70- 472
Printing Processes Using Flammable or Part II. Mobile an.d Manufacu.1recl Homes ................ ...... 70- 473
Combustible Mace rials .................. ....................... 70- 423 Pan Ill. Services a nd Feeders...... .................... .................. 70- 479
Pan I. Gene ra l ............................... .................... ..... ..... .... 70- 423 551 Recreational Vehicle.sand Recreational Vehicle
Part II. Open Containers .................................................. 70- 424 Parks .......... ............................................................ 70- 480
Pan JU. Spray Application Processes ................................ 70- 424 Pa rt I. General ...................................................... ........... 70- 480
Part IV. Spray Application Operations in Membrane Pa rt II. Com bination Electrical Sysrems .......................... 70- 481
Enclosures .............. .............................................. 70- 431 Pan III. OL11er Power Sou rces........................................... 70- 482
Pan V. Printing, Di pping, and Coating Processes .......... 70- 432 PartlV. Nominal 120-Voltor 120/ 240-VoltSystems ........ 70- 483
517 Health Care Facilities ........................................... 70- 434 Pan \!. Factory Tests......................................................... 70- 489
Pan I. General ..................... .............................. .............. 70- 434 Pan VI. Recreational Vehicle Parks ........... .......... ............. 70- 489
Pan ll. Wiring and Protection ......................................... 70- 437 552 Park. Traile rs ............................ .......... ................... 70- 491
Part ill. Essential Elecuica.1 System (EES) ........................ 70- 440 Pan I. General .............. ................................................... 70- 491
Part IV. Inhalation Anesthelizing Locations .................. .. 70- 447 Pan II. Low-Voltage Systems ............................................ 70- 492
Part V. X-Ray Installations........................................... .... 70- 449 Part Ill. Combination Electrical Systems.......................... 70- 493
Pan lV. Nominal 120-Vo.ltor I 20/ 240-VoltSysten1s ........ 70- 493
PanV. Factory Tests ........ ..... ............................................ 70- MO

2020 ll\lirjon NATLONAL ELECTRIC-AL CODE 70-5

 NATIONAL ELECTRJCAL CODE

555 Marinas, Boacyards, Float.ing Bi,ildi ngs, and 660 X-Ray Equipment.............. ..... .................... ..... ..... 70- 5.~5
Comm e rcia l and Noncommercial Docking· Part l. General ......... ........................................ ................ 70- 555
Facilit.ies ................................................................ 70- 500 Part JI. Control .............. ..... .................... ......................... . 70- 556
J>an I. General ............ .. ....... .......... .......... ............... ......... 70- 500 Part Ill. Transformers and Ca pacitors .............................. 70- 556
Part II. Marinas, Boatyards, a nd Docking Faci lities ........ 70- 502 Part IV. Guarding and Grounding...................... ............. 70- 557
Pan Ill. Floating Buildings ......................... ............... ........ 70- 504 665 Induction and Dielectric Heating Equi pmen t ... 70- 557
590 Temporary Installations .............. ......................... 70- 504 Pa rt J. General................... .............................................. 70- 557
Part II . Guarding, Grounding, a nd L abeling ..... ............. 70- 558
Chapter 6 Special Equipment 668 Elecu·olytic Cells ............. ............... ..... ..... ..... ........ 70- 558
600 Electric Signs and Outline Lighting ................... 70- 508 669 Elecu·oplaling .... .......... .......... ............... .......... ...... 70- 560
Part I. General . .................... .......... .......... ............... ..... .... 70- 508 670 Industrial Machinery .......... ................................. 70- .~6 1
Pan II. Fie ld-Installed Skeleton Tubing, Outline 675 Electrically Driven or Controlled hTig-at.ion
Lighting, a nd Seconc1al)' Wiring ......................... 70- .~12 Machines ............................................................... 70- 562
604 Manufactured Wiring Systems............................ 70- 514 Pan l. General ......... ..... ............... .................... ................ 70- 562
605 OHice Furnish ings............................................... 70- 515 Part JI . Center Pivo t lrrigat.ion Machines ........................ 70- 564
610 Cranes and Hoist~ ......................................... ....... 70- .~16 680 Swimming Pools, Fountains, a nd Similar
Pan I. General ................................................................. 70- 516 Installations .......................................................... 70- 564
PanU. Wiring ................................................................... 70- 517 Part J. General ......... .......... ............... .......... ..... ................ 70- 564
Part Ill. Con met Co ndLLcrors ....................... ..... , ................ 70- 519 Pa rt II . Pe rmanently Installed P ools ........ ............... ......... 70- 567
Pan Iv: Disconnecting Means .............................. ............. 70- 520 Part Ill. Storable Pools, Storable Spas, Storable Hot
Pan V. Overcurrent P rotect.io n ....................................... 70- 520 Tubs, a nrl Storable Imme rsion P ools ................. 70- 573
Parr VI. Contro l................................................................. 70- 521 Part JV. Spa5, H ot Tubs, and Permanently JJ1sralled
Pan VII. Grounding and Bo nding.............. ....................... 70- 521 Imme rsio n Pools ..................... ............................. 70- 574
620 Elevators, D umbwaiters, Escalators, Moving Part V. FoL1ntains .. ....................................................... ..... 70- 576
Walks, Platform Lifts. and Stairway Chairliti.s ..... 70- 521 Pa rt VJ. Pools and TLLbs for Therapeutic Use .................. 70- ·578
Pan I. General ........... ................................... ................... 70- 521 Part VII. Hydromassage Batl1tuhs .................. .................... 70- 578
Pan 11. Concluctors ........................................................... 70- 523 PartVlll. Electrically P owered Pool Lifis .... ..... ................... 70- 579
Pan Ill. Wiring ............. .................................. ,................... 70- 525 682 Natural and Artificially Made Bodies or Water .. 70- (>79
Pan Iv: Installation of Conductors ................................... 70- 527 Part L General ......... .......... ......................... ..... ............... . 70- 579
PanV. Traveling Cables ....................................... ............ 70- 528 Part II . Installation ...................... .................... .................. 70- 580
PanVL. D isconnecting Means and Control ..................... 70- 528 Pan JI I. Grow1ding and Bonding................................ ..... 70- 580
Pan VII. Qvercurre nt Protect.in n ....................................... 70- 530 685 Integrated E lecu;cal Systems.............................. 70- 581
Pan VIII. Machine Rooms. Control Rooms, Machiner y Part I. General ....................................... ......... , ................ 70- 581
Spaces, and Control Spaces . .......... ...................... 70- 530 Pan II . Orderly Shutdown ................................................ 70- 582
Pan IX. Grounding and Bo nd ing.............. ..... .......... ........ 70- 530 690 Solar Photovollaic (PV) Sysrems . ........................ 70- 582
PanX. Eme rgency a nd Standby P ower Systems ............. 70- 531 Part I. Ge ne ral ................................................ ,................ 70- 582
625 Electric Vehicle Power Transfer System.............. 70- 531 Part II. Circuit Req11Jreme111s .......................................... 70- 58:3
Pan I. General ................................................................. 70- 531 Part II L. Disconnect.ing Means ............................ ............... 70- 587
Pan 11. Equipme ruConstruction ............................ ......... 70- 532 P an IV. Wiring Me d1ods and MaLerials ............................ 70- 588
Part Ill. Installation ............................................................ 70- 532 Pa rLV. Grounding· ancl Bonding .......................... , ..... ..... 70- 590
Pan Iv: Wireless Power Transfer Equipment................... 70- 535 PanVI. Marki ng ....................................................,........... 70- .592
626 Electrified T ruck P arking Spaces ............. ........... 70- 535 Pan VII. Connection to Other Sources .................... ......... 70- .592
P arr I. Genera l .............. ................. .................................. 70- 535 ParLVIII . Energy Storage Syste ms ....................................... 70- .592
P art II. Electrified Truck Parking Space EleCLrical 691 ~r~e-Scale P hotovoltaic (PY) Electric Supply
Wiring Systems..................................................... 70- 536 Stallons ................................................................. 70- .593
P art Ill. Elecrrified Truck Parking Space Suppl)• 692 Fue l Cell Systems ..........., ...................................... 70- 594
Equipment ..................... ..... .................... .............. 70- 537 P a rt I. C,eneral ................... .......... ..... ..... .......... ................ 70- .594
Pan Iv: T ransporr Refrigerated Un its (TRUs) ................ 70- 53~ Part II. Circuit Requlremenr.s .......................................... 70- .594
630 Electric Welders ...................... .................... ......... 70- 540 .Part II L Disconnect.ing Means ........................................... 70- 595
Pan I. Gene ra l ................................................................. 70- 540 Pa n IV. Wiring Me d1ods ..... .............................................. 70- 595
Pan II. A.re Welders ........................... ..... .......... .......... ..... . 70- 54() Pa n V. Grounding ............................................................ 70- 595
Parr IIL Resisrance Welders ............................................... 70- 541 Pan VI. Marki ng................................................................ 70- 595
Parr JY. Welding-Cable ................................... ..... .............. 70- 541 P an VII. Connection to Other Circuits ............ ................. 70- 595
640 Audio Signal Processing, Amplification. and 694 Wind Elenric Sys rems ..... .................... ................. 70- 596
Reproduction Equipment ................................... 70- 542 Pa rt I. Gene ral ................................................. ................ 70- .596
Parr I. General ...... ..... ..... ..... ..... ............... .......... ..... ......... 70- 542 P art II. Circuit Require me n r.s .......................................... 70- 597
P arr II. Pe rma nent Audio System Installations ............... 70- 544 .Pan Ill. Disconnect.ing Means ........................................... 70- 597
Parr III. Portable and Temporary Audio System Pan fV. v\1iring Meth od~ ................................................... 70- 599
installations........................................... ............... 70- .545 Pan\!. Grounding· and Bonding .......................... , .......... 70- 599
645 ln fonnation Technology Equipme nt .................. 70- .546 P a rt VI. Marking...... .......................................................... 70- -599
646 Modular Data Centers......................................... 70- .549 P a rt Vil. Connection co OLher Sources ............... .............. 70- -599
P arr I. General ................................................................. 70- 549 695 Fir·e Pumps ................................... ......................... 70- 600
Parr II. Equipment ................................................... ......... 70- 552
P arr III. Liglning ............ .......... ......................... ..... ............ 70- 552
Chapter 7 Special Conditions
Pan rv. Workspace ...... .......... ..... .......... ............... .............. 70- 553 700 Emergency Systems . .......... ..... ............... ............... 70- 605
647 Sensitive Electronic EqLLipment ............. ............. 70- 553 Pa rt L Genernl .... ........................................ ..................... 70- 605
650 Pipe Organs ............. ............................................. 70- 554 Pan rr. Circuit Wiring ....................................................... 70- 607

70--6 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition

 CONTENTS

Part ill. Sources or Powe,· .... ............................................. . 70- 608 Pa rt I. General ......... ......... .................................... ........... 70- 664
Part IV. Emergency Syst.em Circuits for Lighting and Pan IL W ires and Cables O utside and Entering
Power ................................................................... . 70- 6 10 Buildings ............................................................... 70- 665
Part V. ConLrol - Emergency Lighting Circuits ............ 70- 6 1() Part Ill. Grounding Methods....... ..................................... 70- (-i66
Pan VI. Overcu rrent Protection ...................................... . 70- 6 1l Part LV. lnstalla1ion Methods Within Building-s ............... 70- 668
701 Legally Required Standby Systems ..................... . 70- 612 Part V. Listing Require ments ........................................... 70- 675
Part I. General ..................... ........................................... . 70- fil2 805 Communications Circuits .... ..... ........................... 70- 675
Part II. CircuiLWiring .................................................... ... 70- 613 Pa rt I. General ...................................................... ........... 70- 675
Part 111. Sources of Power .................................................. 70- 613 Pa rtll. Wires and Cables Outside a 11dEntering
Part IV. Overcurrent Protection ..........,...... ..................... . 70- 614 Buildings ...................... ........................................ . 70- 676
702 Optional Standby Systems ................................... 70- 6 15 Part Ill. Protect ion ............................................................. 70- 676
Part I. General ................................................................ . 70- 6 1.5 PartLV. Installation Methods Within Buildings ............... 70- 678
Pan II. Wiring ................................. ................................. . 70- 616 Part V. Listi ng Require ments ........................................... 70- 679
705 lnterconnec1ed Electric Power Production 81() Radio a nd Televisio n Equipment ........................ 70- 680
Sources .................................................................. 70- 616 Part I. General ................................................................. 70- 680
Pan I. General .....................................,.......................... . 70- (H6 Pa rt II. Receiving Equipment - Antenna Systems ........ 70- 681
Part II. Microgrict Systems .. ...................................... ........ 70- 620 Part Ill. Amateur and Citizen Band Trnnsmitting and
706 Energy Storage Systems ......... .............................. 70- 621 Receiving Srntions - Antenna Systems .............. 70- 683
Pan I. General .....................................,.......................... . 70- 621 Part IV. In terior Installation - Transmitting Sra1jons .... 70- 683
Pan II. Disconnecting Means ........................................ ... 70- 621 820 Community Antenna Television and Radio
Pan ill. Installation Requirements .................................. . 70- 622 Distribution Systems ................ ............................ 70- 684
Pan IV. Circuit RequiremenLS ..............................., ......... . 70- 623 Pa rt I. Ge neral .............. ................................... ..... ........... 70- 684
Pare V. Flow Batt.ery Ene rgy Storage Systems .................. 70- 624 Pa rt II. Coaxia l Cables Outside and Entering Buildings 70- 684
Parr VI. Other Energy Storage Technologies .................. . 70- 624 Part IIJ. P rotection ............................................................. 70- 684
708 CriLical Operatio ns Power Systems (CO PS) ....... 70- 624 Pa rt LV. Grounding Methods.. ........................................ .. 70- 685
Pan I. General ................................................................ . 70- 624 Part V. lnsLalla1ion Methods W ithin Buildings ............... 70- 685
Pan 11. CircuiL Wiring and Equipment ......... .......... ....... . 70- 625 Part VI. Listing Requirements ........................................... 70- 686
Part IU. Power Sources and Connenio n ......................... . 70- 627 830 Network-Powered Broadband Com municarlons
Pan IV. Overcurrent Protection ...................................... . 70- 628 Systems ..... .................... ......................................... 70- 686
Pan V. System Pe rforma nce a nd Analysis ....................... 70- 629 Part I. General .... ............................................. ................ 70- 686
710 Stand-Atnne Systems ........................................... . 70- 629 Part II. Cables O,nside and Enlering Buildings............. 70- 687
712 Direct Current Microgrids ................................... 70- 630 Part Ill. Protection ............................................................. 70- 688
Pan !. General ................................................................ . 70- 630 Part IV. Grounding Met.hods............................................ 70- 690
Pfu·1. U. Cirn ,i t Requirements .......................................... 70- 6'.30 Pan V. Installa1jon Methods Within Buildings .............. . 70- 690
Pan Ul. Disconnecting Means ............... ............................ 70- 631 Pan VT. Listing R equi remen lS ........................................... 70- 691
Pm·t IV. Wiring Methods ................................................... 70- 631 840 Prem i.ses-Powe reci Broadband Communicalions
Pm·1.V. Marking ....................... ......................... ..... ..... ..... . 70- 631 Sysr:ems ..... ...... ... . ... ....... ...... .............. ..... . ... .... .. ..... . 7 0- fi(J I
Pm"L VI. Protection .................. .............................. ............. 70- (j31 J'an L General ...................................................... ........... 70- 6!ll
Pm·t VII. Sys rems over 1000 Volts ....................................... 70- 631 Pan II. Cables Outsicie a ndEnte1i ng Builrlings ............. 70- 6()2
720 Cirn ,i ls and Equipment Operating :u Less Pan In. Protection ............................... ..... ......................... 70- 692
Than 50\/olts ................................................... .... 70- 631 Pan[\( Grouncting Melhods ............................................ 70- 693
725 Class J , Class 2, m1d Class 3 Remote-Control. Pan V. lnslallatio11 Methods With.in Buildings ............... 70- 693
Signal ing, and Power-Limited Circuits .............. . 70- 632 Parl VI. .Premi.ses Poweling of Communicatio ns
Pm·t J. General .......................... ....................................... 70- 632 Equipment over Corn munications Cables .......... 70- 693
Pm·t IJ . Class l Circui ls ..................................................... 70- 633 Part VIJ.. Listing Requi rements ............................ ..... .......... 70- 693
Pan IJI. Class 2 a nd Class 3 CircuiLS .................. ............... . 70- 635
Pm·t JV. Listing .Reqniremenls ........................................... 70- 642 Chapter 9 Tab]es
727 lnstrwnentation T ray Ca hie: Type ITC ............... 70- 644 1 Pe rcem of Cross Section of Conduit and
728 Fire-Resistive Cable Syslems .............................. .. 70- 64.5 Tubing fr,r Conduc.t ors and Cables ................... .. 70- 6%
750 Energy Managemem Syscems .............................. 70- 6{.5 2 Radius ofCond,tit and Tubing Bends................ 70- 695
760 Fire Alarm Systems .............................................. . 70- 646 4 Dimensions and Percenr Area of Conduit and
Pfu·1. I. Gene ral ................................................................ . 70- 646 Tubing (.Area.., of Conduit or T ubing for the
Pm·t U. Non- Power-Limited Fire Alarm (NPLFA) Combinations of Wires Perm.irled in Table I ,
Cirn1i ts ......................... ........................................ . 70- 647 Chapter 9) ........................... ................................. 70- 6\16
Pfu·1. UI. Power-Limited Fire Alarm (PLFA) Circu.irs ....... . 70- 649 5 Dimensions ofl nsulated Co nductors a nd
PmT JV. Listing Reqni rements ........................................... 70- 652 Fixture Wires ............................................. ........... 70- 700
770 Optical Fiber Cables ...................................... ..... . 70- 6.56 5A Compact Copper and.Aluminum Building Wire
Pm·1. J. General ................................................................ . 70- 656 Nominal Dimensions** and Areas ......... ..... ........ 70- i04
Pm·t Jl. Cables Outside and Enrering Buildings ............. 70- 656 8 Conducwr Properties .......................................... 70- 705
Pan ill. Protection ... ..... ..................................................... 70- 657 9 Alternating-Current Resistance and Reac1.ance
Pan IV. Grou nding Methods ........................................... . 70- (-i57 for 600-Volt Cables, 3-Phase., 60 Hz, 7!'i°C
ParL V. LnstallaLion Methods Within Buildin b'S ............... 70- 65!J (167°F) -Three Single Conductors in
ParL VJ. Listing Req.uiremenL~ ........................................... 70- 661 Conduit .... ............................................................. 70- i06
10 Cond ucror Stranding .............. ............................. 70- 707
Chapter 8 Communications Systems II (A) CJa5s 2 and Class. 3 Alcernating-Currem Power
800 General Requireme n ts for Co ,.r nnunicalions Source Limitations ............................................... 70- 707
Systems ....... ..... ......................... .......... ..... .............. 70- 664

2020 ll\lirjon NATLONAL ELllCTRW.AL CODE 70-7

 NATIONAL ELEC..'TRJCAL CODE

12(A) PL!i'A Alternating-Curren L Power Source
Limitations ........................................................... 70- 709
J nfom1ativeAnnex;\; Product Safety Stanrla.rd.s .......... 70- 710
J n fom,ativeAnnex.B: Application Informal.ion for
Ampaci cy Calculation ..................................................... 70- 716
Informative Annex C: Conduit, Tubing, and Cable
Tray Fill Tables for Conductors anrl Fixture Wires of
t.he Same Size ............................. ............... .......... ............ 70- 729
In-formative Annex G: Supervisory Control and Data
Acquisition (SCADA) ................................................. .... 70- 83!l
lnformacive Annex H: Administration a nd
Enforcement ......................... ......................... ................. 70- 834
lnfom1ative Annex I: Recommended Tigluenjng
Torque Tables from UL Standard 48f:iA•486B .............. 70- 840
Informative AnnexJ : ADA Stanrlard5 for Accessible
Design ......... ......................... .......... ..... .......... .................. 70- 842

lnformaLive Airnex D: Examples ................................... 70- 815 Index ... ..... .......... ..... ..... ..... .......... ..... .......... ..... ..... ..... ...... 70- 845
JnformaLiveAnnexE:Types ofConstruction ............... 70- 829
Ln fom1ative Annex F: Availability and Reliability for
Critical Operations Power Systems; and Development
and Implementation of Functional Performance Tests
(FPTs) fo r Crilical Operal.ions Power System$ .............. 70- 831

70-8 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020falition

 COMMITTEE PERSONNEL

NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE COMMIITEE

These lists represent the membership at the time the Committee was balloted on the final text of this edition.
Since that time, changes in the membership may have occurred. A key to classifications is found at the back of this
document.

Correlating Committee on National Electrical Code®

Michael}- Johnston, Chair
Natio na l Elecirical Con u·actors Associa tio n, MD [IM]

Mark W. Earley, &cretrwy (Nonvoting)

Natio nal Fire Protec1jo n Associatio n , MA

Sanh D. Caldwell, Ted1,,i1:al Comntilu:e 1ldmi11ist.r(l.lor (Nonvoting)

Natio nal Fire P rotec tio n A.~sociation, MA

James E. Brunssen, Te lco rdia Technologies (Ericsso n ), NJ [UT]
Re p. Allia nce for Telecommun ications Industry Solutions
Kevin L. Dressman, U.S. Departme111 of Energy, l'vlD [ U]
Palmer L. Hickman, Electrical Training AUiance, MD [L]
Rep. ln terna1io nal Brotl)e rhood of Electrical Workers
David L. Hittinger, Indep en de nt £lec1rical Com racwrs of Greater
C incinnati. O H [IM]
Rep. Ind e pe nde n t Electrical Contractors, lnc.
Richard A Holub, The DuPonl Com pany, Inc., DE [U]
Rep. Am e rican Che01istry Council
John R. Kovacik, UL LLC, IL [RT]
Alan Manche, SchneiderElectric. KY [M]
Roger D. McDaniel, Georgia Power Compa ny, GA [UT]
Rep. £lec1ric Lig h1 & Power Grou p/ EEi
David A. Williams, De lta Ch arter Towns hip, Ml [E ]
Rep. In ternational Association of Elecu·ical lnspen.ors

Alternates
Lawrence S. Ayer, Biz Com Elenric, Inc., OH [lM ] Robert A. McCuUo ugh, Tucker mn, ~ [El
(AIL. to David L. Hittinger) (AI L to David A. Williams)
Roland E. Deike, Jr., Ce nte rPoint Energy, Inc., TX [ UT] RobertD. Osborne, UL LLC, NC [RT]
(AIL. LO Ro ge r D. McDaniel) (Alt. r.o j o h n R. Kovacik)
James T. Dollard,Jr., IBEW L ocal Unio n 98, PA [L) Christine T. Porter, lmertek Testing Sewices, WA [RT]
(Al l. lo Palmer L. Hickman ) (Voting Alt.)
ErnestJ. Gallo, Telcordia Technologies (Ericsson ), NJ [UT] George A. Straniero, AFC Cable Systems, Inc., NJ [M]
(Al L to J ames E. Brunssen) (Voting Ali.)

Nonvoting
Timothy J. Pope, Can adia n Standa rds A~ociatjon. Canad a [SE] D. H arold Ware, Lib ra Electric Company. OK [[M]
Rep. CSA/Canadia n Elecrrical (',ode Co mmittee (Member Emeritus)
William R. Drake, Fair field, CA [M]
(Me mbe r Emerillls)

Mark W. Earley, N FPA Staff Lia ison

2U20 Edition NATLONAL £U.CTRICAL COD!l 70-9

 NATIONAL ELEl.'TRICAL CODE

Code-Making Panel No. 1

Articles 90,100, 110, Chapter 9, Table 10, Annex A, Annex H , Annex I, and Annex}
Kenneth P. Boyce, Chair
UL LLC, IL [RT]

Louis A. Barrios, Sh e ll Global Solutio ns, TX [U]
Rep. American Chemistry Council
Roland E. Deike, Jr., CenLerPoint Energy, Inc., TX [UT]
R ep. Electric Ligh1 & Power Group/ EEi
Ernest]. GaUo, Telcordia Technologies (Ericsson ), NJ [VJ
Rep. Alliance for Te lecc;imm unicaLions Industry SoluLions
Palmer L. Hickman, Electrical Training A lliance, MD [L ]
Re p. tmernational B rotherh ood nfE.lectrirnl Wc;irkers
David L. Hlttinger, I ndependem Electrical Contrac 1nrs of G re;uer
Cincinnati, O 1-l [IM]
Rep. lnclepenclent Elecuical Contractors, lnc.
Donald R. [verson , National Elec1rical Manufac1urers Association,
Ml [ Ml
Rep. National Elecu·ical Manufacturers A~sociarion
James F. Pierce, l merrek Testing Services, O R [RT]
Harry J. Sassaman, fo resr.Eleccric Co,porarion, NJ [IMJ
R ep. National Elecrrical Contractnrs AssociaLion
Kent A. Sayler, P2$ Inc., CA [U)
Rep. 1.nsLitnte of Electrical & Electronks Engineers, Inc.
Mohinder P. Sood, Cicy of A lexandria, VA [El
Rep. lmernational Association of Elecuical Jnspecrors

Alternates

James E. Brunssen , Telcordia Technologies (E,icsson) , NJ LUJ Kenneth L. McKinney, Jr., UL LLC, NC [RT]
(Al t. to Ernestj. Gallo) (Alt. lO Kenne th P. Boyce)
Mark Christian, Electrical Training Alliance, T N [L] Donald R. Offerdahl, lntenek Testing Sen~ces, N D [RT]
(Alt. to Palmer L. H ickmat1) (AJt. to J ames F. Pierce)
Jon Coulimore,JC Elewic, Inc., WA [IM] Michael C. Stone, National Electrical Manufacturers A%ociation,
(Alt. to David LJ-littinger) CA [M]
TimotJty Garland, Keene State College, NI-I [U] (AJt. 10 Donald R. Iverson)
(Voti ngAlc.) Frank E. Tyler, The Du Po n t Co!llpany, Inc.. DE [U)
Larry Geyer, QLtali ty Electric Inc.. ID [IM] (AIL to KemA. Say.le r)
(Ale. to H an-yj. Sassaman) Charles VaJaer, City Of G lendale Californ ia, CA LE]
Joseph Marquardt, ExxonMobil Productio n Compa n}, TX [U] (Alt. t0 Mohincler P. Sood )
(AJ1. co Louis A. Barrios)
Roger D. McDaniel, Georgia Power Company, GA [UT]
(AJt. to Ro land E. Deike.J r.)

Nonvoting
Ark Tsisserev, AES Engineering, Canada [SE]
Rep. CSA/ Canadia n Electrica l Code CommitLee

70-10 NAT IONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020fali,ion

 COMMITTEE PERSONNEL

Code-Making Panel No. 2

Articles 210,220, Annex D, Exam.pies Dl through D6

Mark R. Hilbert, Chr,ir
MR Hilbert Elenrical lnspectfon ~ & Training, NI-I [E)
Rep. In ternational Association of Electrical inspectors

Mathher Abbassi, New York City Depa run em O f B uildings, NY [El
Charles L. Boynton, The DuPont Company, Inc., TX LU]
Rep. Am e rican Chemistry Council
Daniel Buuck, National Association o f Ho me Blti.lders (NAH B) . DC
[U]
Re p. National Association of H Q me .Builders
Steve Campolo, Levito n ManLtfacturin g Company, Inc., NY [M]
Thomas A. Domitrovich, Eaton Corporation, MO [Ml
Rep. National Electrical Ma nufacwr ers Association
Nehad El.Sherif, Saskatoon, SKCanacla [U]
Rep. lnstian e of Electrical & Electronics Engineers, Inc.
TI1omas L. Harman, U niversity of Housto n.Clear Lake, TX [SE]
DavidW. Johuson, CenTexJEC, TX [IM ]
Rep. Independent E lectrical Con tracto rs, Inc.
Alan Manche, Schneide r Electric, KY [Ml
John McCan,ish, NECA IBEW Elecrrical Training Ce111.e r, OR [L ]
Rep. l me rna tio nal Brothe rhood ofElecuical Workers
Christopher J. Pavese, Duke Ene rgy, KY [ UT]
Rep. Electric Light & P ower Group/ EEi
Frederick P. Reyes, U L LLC, NY [ RT]
Michael Weaver, M&W Electric, OR [ IM]
Rep. National Electrical Contractors A~sociation

Alternates
William B. Crist.Jr., lES Residential Lnc., TX [JM] Fred Neubauer, Neubauer Electric Inc.. CA [lM]
(Al t. to David W. J ohnson) (Alt. 1.0 Mkhael Weaver)
Andrew Kriegman, Le,~ton Manufacturing Company, J nc., NY [M] Robert D. Osborne, UL LLC,NC [ RT ]
(Ah. 10 Steve Campolo) (Alt. to Fred e rick P. Reyes)
Brett Larson, Schneider Electric, lA [M] Femando E. Pacheco, Methanex Chile SA. TX LU]
(.A.It. LO Alan Manch e) (Ah. to Charles .L. Bni~1ton)
Cesar Lujan, National Association ofl-fome Builders (NAHB), DC BrianE. Rock, H ubbell Incorpo rated, CT [M]
[UJ (A.11. to Thomas A. D o rnitrovich )
(AIL LO D aniel Buuck) JosephJ. Wages, Jr., lmernaLio naJ A~oclation ofElectricaJ
Roger D. McDaniel, Georg ia P ower Compan y, GA [UT ] Inspeck,rs, TX [El
(Al t. LO ChristopherJ. Pavese) (Alt. to Mark R. Hilben)
Daniel J. Naughton, .JATC of Greater Boston. MA [L)
(Alt. lo.J ohn McCamish)

Nonvoting
Douglas A. Lee, U.S. Consume r Product Safety Com.mission, MD Andrew M. Trotta, U.S. Con sumer Product Safety Commissio n, l\lID
[Cl [Cl
R ep. U.S. ConsLU11er Product Safecy Commissio n Rep. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Colllrnissio n

2020 lldirjon NATLONAL £ L£CTRLCAL CODE 70-11

 NATIONAL ELEl.'TRICAL CODE

Code-Making Panel No. 3

Articles 300, 590, 720, 725, 727, 728, 760, and Chapter 9, Tables 11 (A) and (B), and Tables 12(A) and (B)
Robert A.Jones, Chair
l ndependem Electrical ContracLOrs, Inc., TX [IM]
R ep. Independent Electrical Co nu-actors, Inc.

Richard S.Anderson, RTKLAssociates lnc.,VA [M) Randolph J. Ivans, UL LLC, NY [RT]

Rep. Bujlding. Industry Consulting Services lnternauonaJ
Douglas P. Bassett, XFinicy H ome, FL [IM]
Rep. Elenronic Sec uricy Association
Larry G. Brewer, lmertek Testing Services, NC [RT]
Steven D. Burlison, Duke Energy, FL [UT)
R ep. Elenric Light & Power Group/ EE!
Paul J. Casparro, Scramo n Electricians JATC, PA [L]
Rep. lmernatio nal Brmhe rhood of Electrical Workers
Shane M. Clary, Bay Alarm Compa ny, CA [M)
R ep. A utomatic Fire Afarn1 Association, Inc.
Raymond W. Horner, Allied Tube & Conduit, IL [M)
R ep. National Elenrical Manufacturers A~sociation
Chad M.Jones, Cisco Systems, O H [ M]
T. David M.ills, T. David l\llills Associates. LLC, GA [U]
Rep. lnstitme ofEiecu·ical & ElecLronks Engineers, Inc.
Steven j. Owen, Steven j. Owen, Inc., AL [IM]
Rep. Associated Builders & Conu.ictors
David A. P ace, Olin Corporation. AL [VJ
Rep. American Ch emistry Council
Charles j. Palmieri, Tow11 n!'Norwell, MA LE]
Re p. lmernational Association or Elecu'ical Jnspectors
John E. Sleis hts, Travelers Insurance Company, CT [I )
George Allan Zimmerman, CM_E Consu lting, Inc., CA [SE]
Rep. Ethernet Allia nce

Alternates
Adani D . Corbin, Corbin Elecrrical Services, lnc., NJ [IM) MarkC. Ode, ULLLC,AZ [RT]
(AIL to Rohen A.J o nes) (Alt. LO Randolph J. Ivans)
Mich aelJ. Farrell ill, Luca~ County Building Regulation, Ml [L] Christopher J . Pavese, Duke Energy, KY l UT]
(Alt. r.o Paul.J. Casparro) (AJL 1.11 Steven D. Burlison)
J oel Goergen, Cisco Syste ms, Inc., CA [Ml Dmitriy V. Plotnikov, l ntertek Testing Services, NJ [RT]
(AIL LO Chad M.Jones) (AIL LO L 1tT)' G. B rewer)
Ward Judson, Pencair/ ERICO Lnrernationa l Corporation. O H [M] Rick D. Sheets, AT&T Digira.l Life. TX [IM]
(AIL r.o Richard S. Anderson) (AIL to Douglas P. Basseu)
Kyle Krueger, National Electrical Contractors- Milwaukee Ch apter, George A. Straniero, AFC Cable Systems, Jo e., NJ [Ml
Wl [1.M] (Alt. 1.11 Raymond W. H orner)
(Voti ng AIL) William C. Sze to, McKinney, TX [U J
J ohn Lupacchino, Ga)ilorEleCLric lnco ,vo,med, IN [ LM] (AIL Lo T. David Mi lls)
(AIL to Steve n J. Owen) Rebecca S. Templet, Shell Chemical, 1A [UJ
Jack McNamara, Bosch Security Systems, NY [M] (AIL 10 David A. Pace)
(Alt. to Shane M. C lary)
Timothy J . Mikloiche, Town of Wesr. H artford, CT [E]
(Alt. to Charles.). Palmieii)

Nonvoting
Edward C. Lawry, Oregon, WL [E]
(Member Emeriws)

70-1 2 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020falition

 COMMITTEE PERSONNEL

Code-Making Panel No. 4

Articles 690, 692, 694, 705

JamesJ. Rogers, Chair
To-.11S of Oak Bluffs, T isbury, West Tisbury, MA [El
Rep. International Association ofElecLrirnl lnspecwrs

William F. Brooks, Brooks Engi neering, GA [U)
Rep. Photovoltaic lnrlusr.ry Code Council
Bill Brown, Schneider Eleccric, T N [M)
Rep. National Electrical Manufacturers Association
Thomas E. Buchal, hnenek Testing Services, NY [RT]
James G. Cialdea, CE Power Engineered Services, LLC, MA [IM]
Rep. l.n terNational Electrical Testing A~sociat.ion
Timothy M. Croushore, Fi rsl.Energy Technologies, PA [UT)
Rep. Electric Ligh t & Power Croup/ EEi
Jason M. Fisher, Tesla Inc., VA [U J
Rep. Solar Energy Industries Association
Todd Fries, J-lellem1annTyLOn, Wl [M]
Mark D. Gibbs, URSICH2M Oak Ridge LLC (UCOR), TN [U]
Rep. lnstitme of Electrical & Elenrnnics Engineers, lnc.
Rebekah Wharton Hren, IPP NC LLC, NC [U]
Rep. Solar Energy Internationa l
Lee M. Kraemer, Fi,~~t Sola,; OH [Ml
Rep. Large-Scale Solar Association
Matthew Paiss, San.Jose Fire Department, CA [L]
Rep. International Association of Fire Fighters
Irozenell Pruitt, TI1e DuPom Company, Inc., TX [Ul
Rep. American Chemistry Council
DukeW. Schamel, Electrical Service Solutions, In.c., CA [£Ml
Rep. Independent Electrical ConcraClo rs, Inc.
RonaldJ. Toomer, Toomer Eleetrical Company Inc., LA [IM]
Rep. National Electrical Contracrors Association
Wendell R. Whistler, I BEW 1547, O R [L]
Robert H. Wills, Tmergrid, LLC. NH [ U)
Rep. American Wind Energy A.ssociation
Tunothy P. Zgonena, UL LLC, lL [RT)

Alternates
J ohn S. Berdrter, Sola rcowboyz, CA [Ul Harold C. Ohde, IBEW 134/ Electrical j oimApprenticeship
(Ah. co William F. Brooks) Trai ni ng & Tn.Lst, IL [ L]
Ron Borowski, Ealon Corporation, WI [MJ (AJL LO Wen dell R. Whistler)
(Ah. to 13ill Brown) Isaac Opalinsl<y, Sunpower Corporation, MD [MJ
Ward I. Bower, Solar Energy I nrlustries Association, NM [U J (Alt. to Lee M. Krae mer)
(AJ L LO .Jason M. Fisher) Rhonda Parkhurst, Ory of Palo Alto, CA [El
Mark Gillespie, TMlElec1ric, OH [lM] (Alt. 1.o J amesJ. Rogers)
(Alt. to Duke W. Sch amel) Robert W. Preus, National Re newable Energy Lab. CO [U)
Allthony Granato, Manchester Fire Rescue EMS, CT [ LJ (AIL to Robert H. Wills)
(All. lO Matthew Paiss) Kent Whitfield, Underwriters L'lboraLOries, CA [RT)
Howard Liu, lntenek Testing Services, NY [RT] (Alt. to Timo1J1y P. Zgone na)
(AIL t0 TI10rnas E. Buchal) Leo Zieman, Florida Power & Light (Nexcera Energy), FL [UT )
Brian Mehalic, Winston-Salem. NC [UJ (Alt. to Tirnorh y M. CroLIShore)
(AIL to Rebekah Wharton Hren)

Nonvoting
Stephen W. Douglas, QPS Evalnation Services Inc., Ca11ada [SE)
Rep. CSA/ Canadian Elecu·ical Code Commictee

2020 ll(l.irjon NATLONAL £L£CTRLCAL CODE 70-13

 NATIONAL ELEl.'TRICAL CODE

Code-Making Panel No. 5

Articles 200, 250

Nathan Philips, Chai,·
lntegr;uerl Elenronic Systems, OR [IM]
Rep. National Elecu·ical Contractors Association

Paul W. Abernathy, Encore Wire Corporat io n , TX [Ml
R e p . The AlLLmimunA~sociation. lnc.
Joseph F. Andre, Slee! Tube Institute, WA [M]
Rep. Steel Titbe Institute of North America
Gary A. .Beckstrand, Utah Elec.trical .JAT C, UT [L]
Rep. International Brotherhood of Elecu-ical Workers
Trevor N. Bowmer, Telcorclia (Ericsson ), NJ [UJ
Re p. Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions
David .B.-ender, Copper D evelopmemA~sociation, Inc., NY [Ml
Re p . Copper Developmem A<;sociarion Inc.
Paul Dobrowsky, Innovative Tech no logy Services, NY [UJ
Re p. American Ch emistry Council
David A. Gerstetter, UL LLG, IL [RT)
G. Scott Harding, F. B. Harding, Inc., MD [IMl
Rep. LnrlependentElectrical Contractors, lnc.
Joseph Harding, Power Tool Institute, OH [M]
DaJeep C. Mohla, DCM Eleccrical Consulting Services, Inc., TX [U]
Rep. lnstimce of"Elecu-ical & Electronics Engineers, Inc.
Mike O'Meara, Arizona Public Service Company, AZ [UT]
Rep. Electric Lig ht& Power Group/ EEi
William A. Pancake, Ill, CAP Governmenc, FL [E]
Rep. lmernational Association of Elecu;cal Jnspecrors
Christine T. Porter, lntertek Testing Services, WA [RT)
Nick Sasso, Srnte of Wyoming, W'Y [El
Gregory J. Steinman, Thoma~ & Betts Corporation, T N [M]
Rep. National Elecffical Manufacturers Association

Alternates
Larry Albert, Stan ley Black A nd Decker, MD [M] Raymond W. Horne r, Allied Tube & Conduit, IL [Ml
(AIL to.Joseph I-larding) (Alt. m .Joseph F.Anrlre)
Derrick L Atkins, Minneapolis Elecu-icalJ ATC, MN [L] Ronald Lai, Burndy LLC, NI-I [M]
(A1L r.o Gary A. Beckstrand) (Alt. lo Gregory.I- Steinman)
Kenneth S. Crawford, Ch emou rs Company, WV [U] Karin Manfredi, AFG Cable Systems/Atkore, MA [M]
(Alt. to Paul Dobrowsky) (AIL LO Paul W. Abernathy)
Joseph P. DeGregoria, UL LLC, NY [RT] Richard M. O'Brien, IAEI, NV [ E]
(AIL to David A. Gemener) (Alt. to William A. Pancake , Ill)
Raymond Dunnigan, lntertek, NY [RT] Davidj. Picatti, Picaui Bros. Inc. , OBA lndusu-ial Service & Elecu·ic,
(AIL to C hristine T. Porter) WA l1Ml
Ernestj. Gallo, Telcordia 'Technologies (Ericsson ), NJ [U) (AIL to G. Scott Harding)
(Voti ng Al t.) Phil Simmons, Simmons Elecuirnl Services, WA [l\•l l
Bobby J. Gray, H oydar/ Buck, Inc., WA [(Ml (Al t. l0 David Brende r)
(Alt. to Nathan Phili ps)
Buster Grissett, Mississippi P mver Company, MS [UT]
(Alt. w Mike O 'Meara)

Nonvoting
Robert A. N elson, Canadian Sl.-.nd.,rds .Associatio n , Canad a [RT ]

70-1 4 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020fali,ion

 COMMITTEE PERSONNEL

Code-Making Panel No. 6

Artlcles310, 311,320, 322,324,326,328,330,332,334,3361 337, 338,340,382,394,396,398, 399,400, 402,

Chapter 9, Tables 5 through 9, Annex B and Example D7
Susan Newman Sce arce, Chair
City of Humboldt, T N, T N lE)
Rep. Jmernational As.sociatio n of Elecu-ical Inspectors

Todd Crisman, !BEW Local 22.JAT C, NE [ L)
Rep. lnternaLio nal Brothe rhood of Electrical Workers
Joseph W. Cross, Eastman Chemical Company. TN LU]
Rep. American Chemistry Council
Timothy Earl, G BH lmernational. MI [M)
Rep. The Vinyl lns1:iru1e
Christel K. Hunter, Cerro Wire, NV [M)
Rep. The A lurnimun Associarjo n , Inc.
G erald W. Kent, Kem Elecu-ic & Plumbing Systems, TX [IM]
Rep . lndepe ndenL Elecu-ical Comractors, Inc.
Charles David Mercier, Soutl1\,'ire Company, GA [M]
Rep. National Electrical Manufacturen Association
Dennis A. Nielsen, Lawren ce Berkeley Natio nal Laboratory, CA [Ll]
Rep. Ins1jwre of Elec1rical & Electronics E ngineers, Inc.
Michael Thomas Porcaro, National Grid, MA [UT)
Rep. Electric Lig h r & P ower Group/ EEl
Kenneth Riedl, lmenek Testin g Services, NY [ RTJ
Rep. l menek Testing Services
Susan L. Stene, UL LLC, CA. [RT )
George A. Stranjero, A FC Cable Systems, l11c., NJ [M)
Rep. C',apper D evelopme n t Association Inc.
Wesley L. Wheele.r, National Electrical Contractors Association , MD
[IM]
Re p. National Electrical Con tractors Associac:inn

Alternates
David Carroll, Florida Power And Ligh t, FL [UT ] Kelly Lamp, Idaho Chapter NECA, LO [IM]
(AIL Lo Mic hael Thomas Po rcaro) (AIL to Wesley L. \¥heeler)
Chris]. Fahrenthold, Facili1y Solutions Group, TX [IM) Borgia Noel, State ofWyo ming Fire Marsha l's Office, WY [El
(Alt. Lo Gerald W. Kem) (Alt. to Susan Newman Scearce)
Samuel. B. Fdedman, Gene ral Cable Co,poration, RJ [Ml Kevin T. Porter, Encore Wire Co1poration, TX lM)
(Ah. to C harles David Me rcier) (A lt to Christel K. Hunte r)
Herman]. Hall, ALL~Lin , TX [M] Mario Xerd, UL LLC, NY [RT ]
(Alt. t0 T imothy Earl) (AIL r.o Susan L. Sr.ene)
Samuel R. La Dart, City of Me mphis, TN [LJ Joseph S. Zimnoch, TI,e Okonile Company, NJ [Ml
(Al t. LO Todd Crisman) (AIL to George A. Srraniero)

2U20 Edition NATLONAL £ U.CTRICAL CODE 70-15

 NATIONAL ELEl.'TRICAL CODE

Code-Making Panel No. 7

Articles 545, 547, 550, 551, 552, 553, 555, 604, 675, and Annex D, Examples D11 and Dl2
L. Keith Lofland, Chair
lme rnatio naJ A5soclation ofEJec.rrkal Inspectors (IAEI) , T X [E]
Rep. Internat ional Association of Elecrrical l nspeetors

Jorge L. Arocha, Flo rida Power & Liglu , FL lUT)
Rep. Edison Electric lnslicme
Joseph R. Chandler, lndependemE!ecrrical Conrractors-Dallas, TX
[IM]
Rep. lndependem Elecui cal Comractors. I nc.
Wade Elliott, Utili ty Services Group, Inc., WA [U ]
Re p. National Associa tio n of RV Parks & Campgrounds
Robertj. Fick, AHiam Energy, Wl [U]
Rep. American Sociery of Agricultural & Bio logical Engi neers
Robert A. Garcia, Cavco f ndusu-ies/ Fleetwood Hornes , Inc.. AZ [Ml
Bruce A. Hopkins, R ecreatio n Vehicle Industry Associatio n , VA [M]
Ryan H yer, Testing Engineers lmernationa l, UT [RT]
Thomas R.Lichtenstein, UL LLC, IL [RT]
Doug Mulvaney, Karnpgrounds of.America, Inc., MT l U]
Clifford Norton, Belling ham Ma rine ULiJiries, FL [IM]
Richard A. Paredes, IBEW Local J 64 .JATC. NJ lL]
Rep. lncernational B rotherhood ofElecu·ical Worke rs
Stephen G. Rood, Legrand North America, NY [M]
R ep. National Electrical Ma nufacwre rs Associatio n
Dave Watson, Southwire, (;A [M]
Rep. The Aluminum Associatio n, Inc.
Wesley L Wheeler, Nalional Electrical Contractors.Associa\io n, MD
[IM]
Rep. National Eleccricai Contract.ors. Associatio n
Michael L. Zieman, RADCO, CA [M]
Rep. Manufactured H ousing Jnsliuu e

Alternates
Barry S. Bauman, Allian t Energy, WI [U] J e ffrey Kreidler, Kampgrnunds of' America J nc., MT [ UJ
(AIL to RobenJ. Fick) (Ale. ro Do ug Mulvan ey)
William Bruce Bowman, Fox Systems, Inc., GA [IM] Mark C. Ode, U L LLC, AZ lRT]
(Alt. r.o.Joseph R. Chandle r) (AIL. LO TI10mas R. Lichte nstei n)
Byron Carroll, Carro l Woods Inc., NC [UJ Kent Perkins, Recreali0n Vehicle Industry A5Socialion, VA LM ]
(AIL LO Wade Elliott) (AJL LO Bruce A. H opkins)
Gerald D. Dix, H ampto n Roads J o imApprenticeship Training Paulj. Reis, A FC Cable Systems, Inc., MA [M]
Committee, VA [L] (AIL LO Dave Wacson)
(AIL LO Richa rd A. P aredes) Matthew J. Samojeden, Hubbell inco rporated, CT [M]
Dean C. Hunter, Minnesota Depa nm enc of L abo r &. Jndusuy. MN (Ah. co Stephe n G. Rood )
[El
(Alt. to L. Keith Lofland)

70-lfi NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020falition

 COMMITTEE PERSONNEL

Code-Making Panel No. 8

Articles 342, 344, 348, 350, 352, 353, 354, 355, 356, 358, 360, 362, 366, 368, 370, 372, 374, 376, 378, 380, 384, 386,
388, 390, 392, Chapter 9, Tables I through 4, Example DI3, and Annex C
Larry D. Cogburn, Chair
Cogburn Bros., Inc .. FL [IM]
Rep. National Electdcal ConrraCLors Association

Doug Adams, MP L-Iusky LLC, SC [M]
Rep. Cable Bus ManufacLUrers Association
Rkha.i-d.J. Berman, ULLLC, IL [RT]
David M. Campbell, AFC Cable Systems, Inc., MA [M]
Rep. The A luminum Association , Inc.
Kenneth W. Hengst, 4C2 E lectrical Specialists, TX [IM]
Rep. Indepenclent Electrical Conrrnctors, Inc.
Pete Jackson, City of Bakersfield. California, CA [El
Rep. lnternatinnal Association of Electrical Inspectors
David H. Kendall, Thomas & Beus Corporation, TN [MJ
Rep. TI1e Vinyl Institute
Richard E. Loyd, R & N Associates, AZ [M)
Rep. Steel Tube Jnstitute ofNon:h America
Michael C. Martin, ExxonMobil Research & Engineering, TX [U]
Rep. American Chemistry Corn1c.il
PauIW. Myers, Nutrien, O H [U]
R ep. l nsti ru te of Electrical & Electronics Engl nee rs, Inc.
Donald R. Offerdahl, Intenek Testing Services, ND [Rn
Rhett A. Roe, IBEW Local Unio n 26 JATC, MD [L)
Rep. International Brnr..herhood of Electrical Wnrkers
Rodney J . West, Schneider Electric, OH [M]
Rep. National Electrical Man1.1fac1.urers Association

Alternates
Jay Burris, WheaLlancl Tuhe (Div. ofZekelman lndusLries), OH [M) Stephen P. Poholski, Newkirk Elecuic Associates, Inc., Ml [IM)
(Alt. to Richard E. Loyd) (Alt LO L-,rry D. Cogb urn)
Joel (Joey) Crider, AEP, O H [UT ] Dan Rodriguez, IBEW Lncal Unfon 332, CA [L]
(Voting AIL) (AIL io Rheu A. Roe)
Brian D eacy, Allied Tube Condu..i1 Corp0raLio n, J.L [M] FredericF. Small, Hubbell IncorporaLed, CT [Ml
(AIL LO D avid H . Kendall) (AIL m Rodney .J. West)
David A. Gerstetter, UL LLC, IL [RT] 03.11 Suriyamongkol, Adviu1ced Cable Bus, SC [M]
(AIL. LO Richa rd.). Bemmn) (AIL m Doug Adams)
J. Grant Hanunett, Colorarlo Stme Electrical Board, CO [E) Raul L. Vasquez, Independent Elecuical Contractors, TX [IM]
(Alt. to Pete.Jack.son) (AJL m Kennelh W. Hengst)
Gary K. Johnson, D ow Corning Corporation, L\ [U] Dave Watson, SouLl11vjre, GA [M]
(Ah. IO Michael C. Martin) (AIL Lo David M. Campbell)

Nonvoting
Stephen W. Dougfas, Q PS Evaluation Services Inc., Canada [SE]
Rep. CSA/ Canadian Electrical Code Committee

2U20 Edition NATLONAL £U.CTRICAL CODE 70-17

 NATIONAL ELEl.'TRICAL CODE

Code-Making Panel No. 9

Articles312, 314, 404,408, 450,490

David G. Humphrey, Chair
Coumy of 1-Je nrico, Virginia, VA [EJ
Rep. International Association ofElecrtical Inspectors

Richard Anderson, Fluo r Corporation , TX [U]
R ep. A~sociated BujJde rs & Concracrors
Rodney D. Belisle, N ECA-LBEW Electrical Training Trust, O R [L]
Rep. Internatio nal Brmherhood ofElecrrical Workers
Carmon A. Colvin", Brigh t Future E lecffic, LLC, AL [IM]
Rep. lndependem Electrical Contractors, Inc.
Frederic P. Hartwell, 1-lartwell Electrical Services. tnc., l\llA [SE]
Kevin R. Miller, I me rLek Testing Services. WA [RT]
Robert D. O sborne, UL LLC, NC [RT ]
Bradford D. Rupp, Allied Moulded Pmducts, I nc., OH [M]
Re p . National Electrical Ma nufactu re rs A.~ociatio n
Timothy Schultheis, T.S.B Inc .. Schultheis Electric, PA [IM]
Rep. Natio nal Electrical Contractors Association
Paul B . Sullivan, DuPo nc, SC [ U ]
Rep. lnstituLe of Electrical & Electronics Engineers, Inc.
Darrell M. Sumbera, Cemerpoi nr Energy, TX [ UT]
Rep. Edison Elecu·ic Institute
Ralph fl. Young, Easunan Ch emical Company. TN [U]
Rep. American l.11ernistry Council

Alternates
Jeffrey A. Fecteau, Underwriters Laboratories LLC, AZ [RT] Ronnie H. Ridgeway, Siem ens lnd ttsU')', Inc.. TX [M]
(Alt. r.o Robert D . Osborne) (AIL LO Bradford D . Rupp)
Ken Filips, Bergelectric, OR [ JM] Pat Griffith Rose, City of Greensboro, NC [E]
(AIL to Carmon A. Colvin) (Alt. t(l David C. H umphrey)
Barry N. Hornberger, PECO Energy Com pany. PA [UT ] Michael Simister, Intenek Testi ng Sen1ces, T X [RT)
(Alt. to Darre ll M. Sumbera) (AIL to Kevi n R. l\lljlJer)
Michael O'Connell, J ointApprentice & Training Corrnnittee of
Gremer BosLOn, MA [ L]
(Alt. to Rodney D. Be lisle)

70-1 8 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020fali,ion

 COMMITTEE PERSONNEL

Code-Making Panel No. I 0

Articles 215, 225, 230, 240, 242

Julian R. Burns, Chair
Qualicy Power Solutions, Inc., NC [IM]
Rep. Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc.

Paul D. Barnhart, UL LLC, NC [RT )
Scott A. Blizard, American Electrical Testing Company. Inc., tvlA
(IM]
Rep. lnterNational Electrical Testing As.~ocintion
James T. Dollard, Jr. , IBEW Local Union 98, PA [ Ll
Rep. lnternalional BroLherhood of Elecu·ical Wo rkers
Ed Koepke, Nirtec Mornr Corporal.ion, MO [Ml
Kenneth]. Rempe, Siemens lndtL~try lr1c., GA [M)
Rep. National Elenrical Manufacrurers A.~ociation
Vincent]. Saporita, Eaton's Bussmann Business, MO [M.]
Roy K. Sparks, ill, E li Lilly and Company, IN [U]
Rep. American Chemis1sy Council
StevenE. Townsend, General Motors 0)mfX111Y, Ml [U)
Rep. Institute ofElecuical & E lenronicsEn gineers, Inc.
Christopher R. Vance, National Grid, NY [ UT]
Rep. Elecu·ic Ligh t & Power Group/ EE!
David A. Williams, De ir.a Ch anerTownship, Ml [El
Rep. ln LernationalAssociarion of E lectrical Inspectors

Alternates
Anthony Dawes, DTE Energy, MJ [UT] Nathan Philips, Integrated Electronic Systems. O R [IM]
(AlL LO C hri~toph er R. Vance) (Voting· Alt.)
James Dorsey, Do ug las C,)unry Eleccrical lnspecrnr, CO [EJ Steve A. Struble, Freeman's Electric Service. Inc., SD [I.M]
(Alt. to D m1d A. Williams) (AIL r.o J u lian R. Burns)
Kevin]. Lippert, Eacon Corporation, PA [M] Peter R. Walsh, Tea ticket Technical A.~oci,nes, LLC, MA [U]
(Ah. Lo Vincentj. Saporita) (AIL r.o Steven E. Townsend)
Richard E. Lofton, II, IBEW Local Union 280, O R [ L] D anish Zia, UL LLC, NY [ RT)
(AIL lOJ amesT. Dollard, J r.) (AIL to Paul D. B arnhan)
Alan Manche, Sch neider Electric, KY [Ml
(All. LO Kenneth.]. Rempe)
David Morrissey,American E lectrical Testing Company. I nc., MA
[IM)
(All. to ScouA. Blizard)

2020 ll(l.irjon NATLONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 70-19

 NATIONAL ELEC..'TRICAL CODE

Code-Making Panel No. 11

Articles 409,430, 440, 460,470, and Annex D, Example D8

Dirk R. F. Mueller, Chair
UL LLC, Germany [ RT]
Rep. ULLLC

Luis M. Bas, In tenek TesUng Services, FL [ RT]
John E. Cabaniss, Easm1an Ch e mical Company. TN [U ]
R ep. American Chemisrry Councfl
Terry D. Cole, Hamer Electric, Inc ., WA [I Ml
Rep. lnrl.ependem Electrical Co111racmrs, Inc.
Zivorad Cosic, ABB Inc., WI [M]
Robert G. Fahey, City ofJ a t1esville, WI lE]
R ep. lmernaUonal Association ofE1ecuical lnspec10rs
Paul E. Guidry, Fluor Enterprises, Inc., TX [U]
R ep.Associated Builde rs & Conrractors
Stephen M.Jackson, Smu.hern Company, GA [UT]
Rep. Elec1ric Light & Power Group/ EEi
Arthur S. Neubauer, Arseal Technologies, GA [ U]
Rep. American Petrolernn lns tirute
JebecUahJ. Novak, Cedar Rapids Elecrrirnl.JATC. IA [L]
Rep. lmernationa.1 Brm herhoocl orElecrrical Workers
Joe Schomaker, Eaton, MQ [M]
Arthur J. Smith, III, Waldemar S. Nelson & Company, Inc., LA [U]
Rep. lnsti[ule of Electrical & Electronics Engineers, Inc.
Keilh Waters, Schneider Elecrric, KY [M)
Rep. National Eleccrica.l Manufacrnrers AssociaUon
Ron Widup, Shennco Jndustries, TX [IM]
Rep. lmerNational Electrical Testi ng Association

Alternates
Seth J. Carlton, UL LLC, IL [RT] Chester K-elly; DuponLCh esuwL Run Plaza, DE [U]
(Alt. LO Dirk R. F. Muelle r) (A.It. 10 J o hn E. C'.abaniss)
Donald P. Deachin, DTE, Ml [ UT] Trm LaLonde, H askin Electric, Jnc., WA [IM]
(Alt. LO Steph e n 1\11. J ackson) (Alt. 10 Ten-y D. Cole)
Eric Gesualdi, Sh ell Oil Company, T X [U ) Charles Littlefield, Goochla nd Coumy, VA [EJ
(Alt. wArt hm S. Neubauer) (Alt. tO Robert G. Fahey) •
Charles A. Goetz, Siemens lndtLStry, I nc., IL [Ml VmcentJ. Saporita, Eaton's Bussmann Business, MO [Ml
(Alt. r.o Ke.i th Waters) (Alt. m J oe Schomak er)
Darryl Hill, Wichita ElecrricalJ ATC/ IBEW 271, KS [L j Steven E. Townsend, General Motors Company. Ml [U]
(Alt. 10J e bedia h.J. Novak) (Alt. 10 Arthur.J, SniiLh , Ill)
Tim Hinson, Miller Electric Co m pany, FL [I M] Bobby A. Walton, lmenek, TX [RT]
(Vo ting Alt.) (A IL 10 Lujs M. Bas)

70-20 NAT IONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020falition

 COMMITTEE PERSONNEL

Code-Making Panel No. 12

Articles 610, 620, 625,626, 630,640, 645, 646, 647, 650, 660, 665,668, 669,670, 685 and Annex D , Examples D9
and D10
Scott Cline, Chair
Mcl\forirey Electric, Inc .. CA [IM)
Rep. Natio nal Electrical Con tractors Associa tio n

J oseph M. Bablo, UL LLC, IL [RT ]
Frank Anthony Bello, Internation a l Un io n of Elevator Constructors,
CA [L)
J effrey W. Blain, Schi mlle r Elevator Corporalion , NJ [M)
Rep. National Elevator I ndustry Inc.
Philip Clark, Cicy o f Southfield, Ml LE)
Rep. Internatio nal Associatio n of Electrical Jnspectors
Karl M. Cunningham, Alcoa, Corporation. PA [Ml
Rep. The AluminLLrn Associatio n , In c.
Joel Goergen, Cisco Systems, In c., CA [M]
Jody B . Greenwood, Navy Crane Cemer, VA [ UJ
Jeffrey L. Holmes, I.BEW Local Unio n l .JATC, MO [ L]
Rep. In ternational Broth erhood of Elecu-ical Workers
Robert E . Johnson, ITE Safety. MA [U)
Rep. In formation Tech nology l ndusuy Council
MarkS. Jo iner, Office State Fire Ma rsha l, LA [EJ
Stanley Kaufman, CableSafe, lnc./O FS, GA [M]
Rep. Plastics lndusu·y Association (Plastics)
To dd R. Konieczny, lntenek Testing Services, MA [RT ]
Rep. l n terrek Testi ng Services
To dd F. Lotbnann, Eato n 's Bussmann Business, PA [M)
Rep. Natio n~! Electrical Ma nufacturers Association
Karl Reighard, Delmarva P ower and Liglu, MD [UT]
Rep. Ediso n Elecrric Institute
Edward E. Rodriguez, Walker Engineering, Inc., TX [IM)
Rep. Independem Electrical Comracto rs, Inc.
James E. Tarchinsk.i, Gen eral MoLot-s Com pany, l\lU [ UJ
Rep. SAE H ybrid/ EV Tedrnical Standards. Committee
Robert C. Tunter, lnductOLherm Corporarion , .PA [M]

Alternates
Rocco DeLuca, Jr., City An d Coun ty Of Broomfie ld, CO [El Joseph F. P r'isco, IBM Corporation , MN [U)
(Alt. Lo Philip Clark) (Alt. to Rohen E. J o h nson)
Jacob Haney, General Cable Corporatfon, JN [M) P e ter Sedor, l merrek, NIA [RT]
(Ah . LO Karl M. Cunningha m) (AJL to Todd R. Ko nieczny)
JohnD. (Doug) Henderson, ThyssenKrupp Elevator MMufacturing Richard R. Shawbell, Jr., Flo rida East Coast ElectricalJ ATC, FL [L]
Inc .. T N [M J (Alt. r.oJ effrey L. Ho lmes)
(AIL to.J effreyW. Blain) David B. Stump, lndependem Electrical Comractors, TX [I.M]
John R. Kovacik, UL LLC, IL [RT] (Alt. to Edw;i rd E. RodrigL1e2)
(AJL to .Josep h M . Bablo) Emad Tabata.baei, l nductotherm Corporation, l\[J [M]
Richard (Tony) O'Brien, Cisco Sys1ems. In c., CA [M) (Alt. 1.0 Roben C. Turner)
(Al t. toJoel Goergen ) Frank Tse, Leviton Man ufacturi ng Company, Inc., NY [MJ
Mike 0 1Meara, Arizona Public Service Company, A2 [ UT ] (AJL Lo Todd fl. Lotunann)
(Ah. ro Karl Reighard)

N onvoting
Andre R. Carta!, Yard ley, PA [E]
(Member Emeritus)

2U20 Edition NATLONAL £U.CTRICAL COD!l 70-2]

 NATIONAL ELEC..'TRJCAL CODE

Code-Making Panel No. 13

Articles 445, 455, 480, 695, 700, 701 , 702, 708, 750, Annex F and Annex G
Linda J. Little, Chair
IBEW L ocal l Elewicia ns.JATC, MO [L]

Martin D. Adams, Adams Electric, Inc., CO [IM]
Rep. National Electrica l Comracwrs Association
Steve Baldwin, In tertek, CA [RT]
R ep. lmenek Testing Services
GregJ. Ball, Tesla, CA [M]
Krista McDonald Biason, HGA Architects a nd Engjneers, MN LU)
Rep. Americ;an Society for Heah.hcare Engineering
Daniel]. Caron, Bard, Rao+ Athanas Consulting Engineers, LLC,
MA [SE)
Richard D. Currin,Jr., NorU1 Carolina State U niversity, NC [ll]
Rep . American Society of'Agriculrura l & Biological Engineers
Neil A. Czarnecki, Relia nce Co nu·ols Corpo ra1jo 11. WI [M]
Re p. Naliom1I Electrical Ma nufac1urersAssociation
Steven F. Froemming, City of Fran klin, Wl [E)
Rep. lmernaLio nal Associatio n of Electrical Inspectors
Robert 'E. Jordan , A laba ma Power Company, AL [UT]
R ep. Elecu·ic Liglu & Power Croup/EEi
John R. Kovacik, ULLLC., IL [RT]
Greg Marchand, Briggs & Straito n, WI [M]
Rep. Portable Generawr ManttfacLL1rers' Association
Daniel R. Neeser, Eaton's Bussmann Division. MO [Ml
Shawn Paulsen , CSA Group, Canada [RT]
ArnoldoL. Rodriguez,LyonclelJBasell Industries. TX [U]
Rep. Ame rican C11emistry Council
Mjchael L Savage, Sr., Mario n County Building Safety, FL [E]
Mario C. Spina, Verizon Wire less, OH [UJ
R ep, InslitUle ofEleccrical & E lectronks Engineers, Inc.
Kendall M. Waterman, Draka Cable ce<J. MA [MJ
Rep. Copper DevelopmemA~sociatio n Inc.
James R. White, Sh ermco Indnstries, Inc., TX [IM)
R ep. ln cerNalional Electrical Testing Association
Timothy P. Windey, Cummins P ower Gene ration , MN [ M]

Alternates
Lawrence S. Ayer, Biz Com Electric, lnc., OH [IM] Jan Gromadzki, Tesla, CA [M]
(Vo ling AIL) (Ali. 10 Greg.). Ball)
Barry S. Bauman, Allialll Energy, WI [U] Jeff Jonas, Generac Power Systems, Inc., Wl [M]
(Ale. r.n Rjchard D. Currin.Jr.) (Voling Alt.)
Glenn Brown, CJL Engineering, PA [U] Chad Kennedy, Schne ider Electric, SC [M)
(Alt. LO Krista McDo na ld Biaso n) (Alt. t(1 Neil A. Czarnecki)
William P. Cantor, TPI Corpora1jo n. PA (U] Raymond Richard Prucha, Bard. Rao ;.. Amhanas Consulting
(Alt. LO Mario C. Spina) Engineers, LLC. NY [SE]
James S. Conrad, RSCC Wire & Cable, CT [M] (Alt. lo Da nielJ. Caron )
(Alt. LO Kendall M. Waternrnn) Daniel Schlepp, Wacke r Neuson , WI [MJ
Timothy Cmko, Eato n "s .Bussmann Business. MO [M] (Ah. to Greg Marcha nd)
(Ale. to Danje l R Neeser) Rich Scroggins, Cr,mmjns Power Generatioo. MN [M]
James T. DoUard, Jr., I.BEW Local Union 98, PA [L] (Alt. 10 Timo1.h y I'. Windey)
(Alt. lo Lind a j. Lillie) Rkhard Tice, VEC, Inc., 01-1 [IM]
Laurie B. Florence, UL LLC, LL [RT) (AI L LO Martin D. Adams)
(Alt. to J ohn R. Kovacik) Anton Tomasin, City Of Rochesier Hills, MI [E]
Travis Foster, Sh ell Oil Company, TX [U] (Alt. lo Steven F. Froemming)
(Alt. ro Arnoldo L. Rodriguez) Mkhael Wilson, CSA Group, Canada [RT]
Richard Garbark, BC E, MD [UT] (Alt. to Shawn Paulsen )
(Alt. lll Robert E ..Jordan)

70-22 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020fali,ion

 COMMITTEE PERSO NNEL

Code-Making Panel No. 14

Articles 500, 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 510, 511 , 513, 514, 515, 516
Michael W. Smith, Chair
Sch aefler E leclric Co mpany, MO [IM]
Rep. Nation al Elecu·ical Comracmrs Associa tio n

Donald W. Ankele, UL LLC, JL [RT]
Steven]. Blais, Applecon G roup, IL [MJ
Rep. National Elenrica l Man ufacture rs Association
Corey Cahill, U.S. CoascGuard, DC [El
Mark A. Chrysler, Ci i:y of San Diego, CA [El
Rep. lm e rnario nal A'iSociation ofElenrical l nspeccors
William T. Fiske, Tnrenek Testing Services, NY LRT)
Mark Coodtnan, Mark Goodman t lecll'ical Consu lting, CA LU]
Rep. Am e rica n Petro le um lnslirnte
William C. Lawrence,Jr., FM Glohal, NL'\ [I)
L. E vans Massey, Baldor Electric Company, SC [MJ
Rep. Instrumenr,ation, Systems, & Automa tio n Society
William E. McBride, CO NAM Co nstruction Company, AK [VJ
Rep. Ins titme o f Electrical & Electronics Eng ineers, Inc.
Jeremy Neagle, U.S. Burea u ofAlcoho l, Tobacco, Firearms &
Explosive!', MD [U]
Thomas L. Pottschmidt, Indlanapolis P ower & Ligh t, IN [ UT]
Rep. Edison Electric l nstinne
Lowell Reith, l nterstates Constructio n Services, Inc., KS [IM]
Rep. Indep ende n tElectrical Concrncro rs, l nc.
John L. Simmons, Flo rida East CoastJ AT C, FL [L]
Re p. Inte rnatio nal Broth e rho od of E lectrical Wo rke rs
Ft-ed K. Walker, U.S. De partme nt Of The Air Fo rce, FL [El
DavidB. Wechsler, Go nsu ltant, T X [ U]
Rep. Ame rican Che mistry Counc.il
Mark C. Wirfs, R & W Engineering, Inc., OR [U]
Rep. Grain Elevator a nd P rocessing tiocie cy

Alter n ates
Miliail Bantic, l n tertek, TX [RT) Paul T. Kelly, UL LLC, JL [RT]
{Alt. LO William T. Fiske) (Alt. r.o Do nald W. Ankele)
Dave Burns, Shell P&T, Tn novatio n/ R&D. TX fU l Haywo od Kines, P rince William Co u n ty Building Develo pment, VA
(All. Lo Mark Goodma n ) [El
Cory Cole, Ha me r Electric, Inc., WA [IM] (Alt. Lo Ma rk A. Ch rysle r)
{AlL LO Lowell Reith) Edmund R. Leubner, Eaton's Crouse-Hinds Business. NY [M]
Thomas E. Dwme, Lo ng lslanrl j oint Ap pren ticesh ip & Train ing (AIL LO Steven .J. Blais)
Committee, NY [L] Ed die Ramirez, FM Glo bal, l\llA [I]
(AIL to.Jo hn L. Simmo ns) (AIL LO William G. Lawre nce. Jr.)
Andrew Hernandez, Asu·aZen eca Pharmace micals, DE [U) Ted H . Schnaare, Rosem o unt Incorpo rated, MN [M )
(AJL ro WiJliam E. McBride) (Alt.. Lo L. Evans Massey)
Richard A. Holub, The Du Pon t Company, Inc., DE [ U]
(AIL. Lo David B. Wec hsle r)

Nonvoting
Mich aelE. Aaron, Wiss.Ja nney Elstner Associales, Inc., lL [SE] Timo thy J. P op e, Canadian S4"1nda rds A,sociaLion, Canada [RT )
Re p. T C o n Airpo n Facilities

2020 ll(l.irjon NATLONAL £ L£CTRLCAL CODE 70-23

 NATIONAL ELEC..'TRJCAL CODE

Code-Making Panel No. 15

Articles517,518, 520,522,525,530,540
Lawrence E. Todd, Chair
lme n ek Testing Services, KY [RT]

Chad E.- Beebe, AsHE • AH A, WA [U]
David A. Dagenais, Panners/ Wentwonh-Douglass Hospital, NH [U ]
Rep. NFPA H eald1 Care Sectio n
Matthew B . Dozier, !Design Services, TN [U]
Rep. Lnstimre of Electrical & Electronics Engineers, lnc.
Joe L. DuPriest, City of SL Cloud, FL [E]
Rep. Inte rnatio nal Associatio n of Electrical Inspecto rs
Kenneth J. Gilbert, Florida Power & Lig ht Company, FL [UT ]
R ep. Electric Light & Power Gro,1p/ EEI
Pamela Gwynll, UL LLC, NC [RT]
R ep. ULLLC
Mitchell K. Hefter, Signify, TX [ IM]
Re p. 111um.inati ng Engineering Society of North AmeriGI
Kim Jones, Fun ta~tic Sh ows, OR [U]
Rep. Ourdoo r Amusement B usiness Association , J nc.
Edwin S. Kramer, Radio City Music Hall, NY [ L]
Rep. 1111.e rnat.io nal Alliance ofTheairical Stage Employees
Gary J. Krupa, U.S. Depanmenc ofVet.erans Affairs, NE [U]
Kevin T. Porter, Encore Wi1·e Corporation, TX [M]
Rep. TI1e Aluminum A5sociation, Inc.
Brian E . Rock, Hubbell Incorporated, CT [M]
Rep. National Electrical Ma mtfacrure rsAssociatio n
James C. Seabury Ill, Ence rprise Elect.ric, LLC, T N [IM]
Rep. lnrlependem Electrical Contract.ors, Inc.
Bruce D. Shelly, Sh elly Electric Company. Inc., PA [IM]
Rep. National Electrical Co ntractors Associa tio n
Michael D. Skinner, CBS Studio Center, CA LU]
Rep. Alliance of Motion Picture and Televis io n Produ cers
Steven R. Terrr., Electronic Theatre Controls Inc., NY [M]
R ep. U.S. lnstit.me for Theatre Technology, Inc.

Alternates
Michael A. Anthony, Standards Michigan , Ml [U] FrankNovitzki, U.S. DeparunemofVeteransAffairs, VA [ U]
(AIL LO MauJ1ew 8 . D ozier) (AlL LO Gary J. Krupa)
Gary A. Beckstrand, Ucah ElecuicalJAT C, UT [ L] Don Rabel, Micl-Wesc Electric Company, T X [I M]
(Voting Alt.) (Alt. 10 Bruce D. Sh e lly)
David M. Campbell, AFC Cable S)'s tems, In c., MA LMJ Douglas Rbeinbeimer, Paramount Pictures, CA [U ]
(Alt. to Kevin T. Poner) (AIL. to Michael D. Skinner)
Carmon A. Colvin, Briglu Future Electric. LLC . AL [ IM] Alan M. Rowe, lnternational Alliance of Theatrical St_age
(Al L LO.James C . Seabury Ill) Employees, CA [L)
Connor Wright Frazier, HGA A rchitecLs And Engineers. MN [CJ] (Alt. LO Edwin S. Kramet)
(AIL ro Chad E. Beebe) Clinton Bret Stoddard, Cit.y of Rexburg, ID [E]
Samuel B. Friedman, General Cable Corporation . R1 [M] (Alt. Lo Jo e L. DuPriest )
(AIL to Brian E. Rock) Walter N. Vernon, IV, Mazzet.t.i, CA [SE]
Edward Joseph, Underwrite rs Laboratories Inc., NY [RT] (Voong AIL)
(Alt. tO Pamela Owynn) R. Duane Wilson, Geo rge C. lze no ur Assocfaces, Inc., NM [IM]
Jay Y. Kogoma, lntertek Testing Services, CA [RT] (Alt. to Mitch e ll K. 1:i.erter)
(Alt. to Lawre nce E. Todd)

70-24 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020falition

 COMMITTEE PERSONNEL

Code-Making Panel No. 16

Articles770, 800, 805, 810,820, 830, 840

Thomas E. Moore, Chair
City of Beachwood, O l-1 [El
Rep. International Association or Elecuical l nspectors

George Bish, Amazon/ Ri ng Protect Inc .. NC [IM ]
Rep. Satellire Broarlcasting & Communications Association
James E. Brunssen, Telcordia Technologies (Ericsson), NJ [U)
Rep. Al liance for Telecommun ications lndusu-y Solutions
Terry C. Coleman, Electrical Traini ng,Alliance, TN [LJ
Rep. Interualional Brotherhood of Elecu·ital Workers
Robert Davies, Davies E lectric Company. CA [LM)
Rep. Naliona l Elecirical Contractors Association
Fred C. Dawson, Chemours, Canada [U]
Re p.American Chemisu-y Council
Gerald Lee Dorna, Belrlen Wire & Cable Co., IN [M)
Rep. Insulated Cable Engineers Associalion, Inc.
Robert W.Jensen, dbi-TelecommunicaLion l nfrastrncm re Design,
T X [Ml
Rep. Buildi ng Industry Consulting Services International
Steven C. Johnson,J ohnson Telecom, LLC, T X [UT ]
Rep. Society of Cable Telecommunicatio ns Engineers (SGfE)
William]. Mc Coy, Telco Sales, Inc., TX [U]
Rep. lnstirme of Electrical & E lecrronics Enginee rs. Inc.
Michael F. Murphy, l ntertek Testing Ser vices, MA [R1]
Thomas ]. Parrish , Telgian Corporation , Ml [M)
Rep. Aurnmatic Fire Alarm Association, Inc.
Roy Pollack, Comcast Xfiniry Home, FL [UT )
Rep. Electronic Security Association
Luigi G. Prezioso, M, C. Dean. Inc .. VA [IM]
Rep. Independent E lectrical Cnn tracrors, 1.nc.
Rodger Rei!mrig, J oh nso n Controls, FL [M]
Rep. National Electrical ManufanurersAssociation
Masood Shariff, Commscope, NJ [M]
Rep. Telecornmun.ications Industry Association
Anthony Tassone, UL L LC, NY [RT J
Rep. UL LLC
Leo Zieman, Florida Power & Ligh t (Nexcera Energy), FL [UT )
Rep. Electric Ligh c & Power Group/ EEi

Alternates
Rendell K. Bourg, Natio nal Fire Protection Company Inc., 1--ll [MJ Eric Lawrence, Berk-Te k, A Nexans Company, PA [M]
(All. to ThornasJ. P arrish ) (Alt. to Masood Sh ariff)
Trevor N. Bowmer, Telcordfa (Ericsson ), NJ [U] Diana M. Lettkeman, Dish Network Service, LLC, CO [IM]
(Ah . Lo.James E. Brunssen) (Alt. to George Bish)
Larry Chan, City of New O rleans, LA LEJ Christopher Rawson , Jnte rnalio na l Bro th e rhood of Elend caJ
(AIL. Lo TI10mas E. Moore) Worke rs-- Tech nical I.nstirur.e (IBEW), LL [L]
Timothy D. Cooke, Times Fiber Commun ications, Lnc., VA [UT] (Alt. to Terry C. Coleman)
{Alt. to SLeven C.Jo hnson ) David B. Schrembeck, DBS Communicarions, Inc., O H [IM]
Rando lph]. Ivans, UL LLC, NY [RT ] {Ale. r.n Luigi G. Prezioso)
(Alt. Lo Anthony Tassone) Carl R Wetterhan, General Cable Industries, Inc.. KY [M)
John A. Kacperski, P2S Engi neering, Inc.. CA [MJ {AIL to Rodger Reiswig)
(Alt. to Robert W. J ensen)
Stanley Kaufman , CahleSafe, Inc./OFS, GA [M]
(AIL. to Gerald Lee Dorna)

2020 ll(l.irjon NATLONAL E LECTRICAL CODE 70-25

 NATIONAL ELEC..'TRJCAL CODE

Code-Making Panel No. 17

Articles 422, 4241 426, 427, 680, 682

Donald R. Cook, Chair
Sh e lby Coumy Deparm1em of Developme nt Services. AL [E]
Rep. lncernational Association of Elecrrical Inspectors

Thomas V. Blewitt, UL LLC, NY [RT]
Jerry Lee Daniel, Texas Department of Licensing Regulation, TX
lEJ
E. P. Hamilton, lli, E. P. Hamilto n & A~sociaces, Inc., TX [M]
Rep. Associatio n of Poo I & Spa Professionals
Emmanuel (Lee) De Wayne Jones, Georgia P ower Company, GA
[UT]
Rep. E leCLi-ic Ligh t & Power Group/ EEi
Brian Myers, lBEW Local Unio n 98, PA [L ]
Rep. International .Brotherliood of Electrical Workers
Timothy R. O'Brien, C hula Vista Electr.ic, CA LIM)
Re p. National Electdml Contractors Association
D ennis Michael Querry, Trini cy River A,,thority, TX [ll\ll]
Rep . Indepe ndent Electrical Contractors, fn c.
Chester L. Sandberg, C L Sandberg & Associates, LLC, CA [U]
R ep. Lnstitute of Electrical & Electronics Engineers, Inc.
Kenneth M. Shell, nVem T h ermal ManagemenL. CA [Ml
Rep. Copper Developmem Associ;ujon Inc.
Kam Fai Siu, lmerrek Testing Services, Hong Ko ng [ RT]
Rep. lntercek Testing Services
P eter C. Swim, 'Whirlpool Corporation, Ml [M)
Re p. Air-Conditioning, H eating, & Refrigeration lnsti n11.e
Marce lo E. Valdes, GE Energy Industrial Solutio ns, NC [M]
Rep. National Electrica l Manufacturers Association
Matt B. Williams, Associatjo n of H ome Appliance Manufacturers
(AHAM), DC [M]
Rep. Association of Home Applia nce ManufaCLure rs

Alternates
PauJ W. Abernathy, Encore Wire Corpo ratio n , T X [Ml Armando M . Lozano, MSF"Electric , lnc. , TX [IM]
(AJt. LO Ke nneth M. She ll) (AIL to Dennis Michael Querry)
Ryan Andrew, Ala~kaJ o inr Electrical Apprenticeship and Training Stephen Macey, Watkins Manufacturing Corporation, CA [M)
Trust, AK [L] (Al L LO E. P. H amil ton, 111)
(Alt. tn Brian Myers) Bernard Poton, lnLenek, TX [RT]
Bernie Donnie Bell, Gulf Power Company, FL [UT] (AIL. to Kam Fai Siu)
(AJt. LO Emma nuel (Lee) DeWayneJ o nes) Larry Reichle, Texas Depanme nt Of Licensing Regulation, TX [EJ
Masud Chowdhury, AssociaLion of Home Appliance Man ufucwrers (Alt. m J erry Lee Daniel)
(AH.AM), VA [M] Svetlana Ulemek, H ubbel/ BLtrndy LLC. NH [M]
(Alt. tO Mat! .B. Williams) (Ah. co Marcelo E. Valdes)
Chris Faucette, State of Nonh Carolina, NC [E] Thomas H. Wood, Cecil B. Wood, Inc., IL [lM]
(AJL ro DonaJd R Cook) (Alt. to Tiiuoihy R. O'Brien)
StepbenR. Kuscsik, Underwri ters L,boratories Inc., LL [RTJ
(AIL w "n 10 mas V. Blewin)

Nonvoliug
Andrew M. Trotta, U.S. Consume r Product SaJety Com.mjssio n. MD Douglas A. Lee, U.S. Con sumer P roduc t Safety Com miss.io n, MD
[CJ [CJ
Re p. U.S. Consurne·r Product Safety Commissio n Rep. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Co mmission

70-26 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020falition

 COMMITTEE PERSONNEL

Code-Making Panel No. 18

Articles 393, 406, 410, 411, 600, 605

Bobby J. Gray, Chair

H oydar/ Buck, Inc., WA [IM]
Rep. National Electrical Contractors Association

Ron D.Alley, Northern New Mexico lEC, NM. [IM]
Rep. lndepe ndenl Electrical Concracmrs, Inc.
Frederick L. Carpenter,Act.ticy Brands Lighling. GA [M]
Rep. National Electrical Manufacwrers Association
Kw·tJ. Clemente, Clark Nexsen, Inc., VA [U]
Rep. lnscirute of Elecu;cal & Elecu·nnics Engineers, Inc.
Paul Costello, NECA and IBEW Local 90 JATC, CT [L]
Rep. lnte rnalional Brotherhood ol'Electrical Workers
Hakim Hasan, lnterLek, GA [RT]
Jack E.Jamison,Jr., Miller Engineeling, I nc., \l\'V [E)
Rep. International Association ofElectlical Inspectors
Charles S. Kurten, UL LLC, NY [RT]
William Ross McCotcle, American Electric Power, O K [UT]
Rep. Electric L ight & Power Group/ EEI
Michael S. O'Boyle, Philips Lightolie r, MA [MJ
Rep. American Lighting A~socialion
Wesley j . Wilkens, Persona., Inc., SD [M]
Rep. International Sign Association
Randall K Wright, RKW Consulting, PA [SEJ

Alternates
D onald Berlin, lmermatic Inc.. IL [M] Robert Setaro, l ntertek. GA [Rl]
(Alt. 10 Michael S. O'Boyle) (Alt. 10 Hakim H asan)
Juan M. Caamano, ULLLC, NY [RT] Frank Tse, L eviton Manufacturing Company, Inc., NY [tvl]
(AJL to Ch arles S. Kurten) (Alt. 1.0 Frederick L. Carpemer)
Mark CoshaJ, !ES Commercial of San Amonio, TX [IM) Daruel Van Sickle, ill, Elecu·ical Tra,njng Alliance of.Jacksonville.
(All. LO Ron D. Alley) F'L [L]
Gabriel A. Griffin, Clear Sign and Design Inc., CA [M] (Alt. t.n Paul Costello)
(Alt to Wesleyj. Wilkens) Paul Yesbeck, ACU Sign Corporation . FL [IM]
Richard Hollander, City ofn1cson, AZ [E) (AlL to BobbyJ. Gray)
(AIL. to.J ack E ..Jarnison,J r.)

Committee Scope: Thi~ Committee shall haveplimary responsibility for documents 011
minimizing the risk of electricity as a source of electric shock and as a po ten Lia I igni1jon
source of Ii res and explosions. It shall also be responsible for teX:t to minimize t.he
propagation or lire and explosions due 10 electrical installatio ns.

2020 lldirjon NATLONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 70-27

 NATIONAL ELEl.'TRlCAL CODE

NFPA Electrical Engineering Division Technical Staff

Gordon S. Frost, Division Manager Mark Cloutier, Senior Electrical En~ineer

Mai·k w. Earley, Chief Electrical Engineer Christopher Coache, Senior Elecuical Engineer
Sarah D. Caldwell, Technical Committee Aclrn:inisu-amr Erik Hoheogasser, TechnicaJ Lead. Electrical
Kimberly H. Cervantes, Senio r Technical Con telll Ed itor RichardJ. Roux, Senior Electi-ical Specialist
Barry Chase, Senior Enf(ineer Jeffrey S . Sargent, Principal Elecu·ical Specialist

70-28 NATIONAL ELECTRJCAL CODE 2020Etli,ion

 ARTICLE 90- INTRODUCTION
NFPA70
National Electrical Code
2020 Erulion
IMPORTANT NOTE: Th is NFPA ilocument is made available for
use su~ject to important notices a nd legal disclaimers. These notices
and discfoimers appear in all publications con/a.ining this document
and may be found under the heading ''1mportant Notices and
Disclaimers Concerning NFPA Standards. " They can also be viewed
at www.,,jpa.org/disclaimers or obtained on request from NFPA.
UPDATES, ALERTS, AND FUTURE EDITIONS: New ed·itio11s of
NFPA codes, standards, recommended practices, and guides (i.e.,
NFPA Standards) are released on scheduled revision iycles. This
edition may be superseded by a later one, or it may be ame,uled
outside of its scheduled revision c:yde through the issuance of Tenta-
tive Interim Amendments (TIAs). An official NFPA Standard at any
point in time consists of the current edition of the document, together
with all TlAs and Errata in effect. To verify that this document· is the
current edition or to determine if it has been amended by TlAs or
Errata, please consult the National Fire Codes® Subscription Service
or the "List of NFPA Codes & Standards" at www.nfpa.org/doci:nfo.
In, addition lo TIA:; and En-ata, the document informr:ttion ,pages alro
include the aption to sign up for aleits for individual documents mid
In be involved in the development ofthe next edition.
ARTICLE90
Introduction
90.1 Purpose.
(A) Practical Safeguarding. The pmpose of this Corle is th e
practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards
arising from the use of elec tricity . This Corle is not intended a~ a
design specification or an instruction manual for untrained
persons .
(B) Adequacy. This Cod1: co ntains proV1s1o ns Lha t are consid-
e1·ed necessary for safety. Compliance therewith and prope1·
maintenance result in an installation that is essentia lly free
from hazard but not n ecessarily efficient, convenient, or
adequate fo r good sen1ice or furure expansio n of electrical use.
Informational Nore: H azards often occur because of overloading
of wiring systems by method~ o r usage nor in conformit)' with
this Code. This occLtts because iniLia.1 ,,,iring did noL provide for
increases in the lLSe of electrici1y. An iniL.ial adequa,e insrallaLio n
and reasonable provisio ns for system changes provide for fu ture
increa.~es in the use ofelectriciLy.
2020 ll\lirjon NATLONAL ELECTRLC-.AL CODE
90.2
(C) Relation to Othe1· International Standards. The require-
me n t~ in tl1is Code address the fundamental principles of
protection for safety contained in Section 131 of Inter:natior1a l
Electrotechnical Commiss ion Standard 60364-1, 1:.tedrical instal-
lation~ of Buildings.
lnformational Note: IEC 60364-l , Section 131, conu'lins funda-
mental principles of protection for safety tlrnt e ncompas.5 prOLec-
1.ion against elecuic s hock, protection aiainst themrnl effects,
prntecl.inn against overcurrem, prmecl.ion against fault c1.U-ren1s ,
and protection agains1 overvoltage. All of these potential
hazards are addressed by the requirements in ,his Codi/.
90.2 Scope .
(A) Covered. This Code covers the installation and removal of
electrical conducto rs, equipment, and raceways; sig naling and
communicatio ns conductors, equ ipment, and raceways; and
optic.al fiber cables for the fo llowin g:
(1) Public and pl'ivate premises, including buildings, stn.1c-
tures, mobile hom es, 1·ecreational vehic.les, and floating
buildings
(2) Yards, lo ts, parking lots, carnivals, and industrial substa-
tions
(3) Installations of conductors and equipm ent th at connect
to the supply of elecrrici t)'
( 4) Installa tions used by the electric utility, such as office
buildings, warehouses, garages, machine shops, and
re creational buildings, tliat are not an integral part of a
generating planl, substation, or conu·ol center
(5) Insta llations supplying shore power to sh ips a nd water-
craft in marinas and boatyards, including monitoring of
leakage currenl
(6) Installations used to export elecu·ic powe r from vehicle~
to premises wiring or for bidirectional current fl ow
(B) Not Covered. This Corle does not cover the following:
( J) Installation.~ in ships, watercraft ot11er than fl oating build-
ings, railway rolling stock, a.iro·aft, or automo1:ive vehicl es
o tl1e r than mobile homes and reo·eational ve hicles
I n formation a l Nme: Altho ugh the scope of this Code indicates
thaL th e Goilt does not cover ins1a llar.ions jn ships. pore.ions of
this Code are inco rpo rated b y reference into Title 46, Code of
Fede ral Regula Lions. Parts 110- 113.
(2) Insta llations undergrnund in mines and self-prope ll ed
mobil e surface min in g mac hine ry a nd il.5 atten dant elec-
trical u·ai ling cable
(3) Installations of railways for generation, transformation,
transtuissio n, e ne rgy storage, or distribution of power
used exclusively for operation of rolliJ1g stock Qr i.nstalla-
tions used exclusively fo1· signaling an d communications
purposes
(4) Installations of communications equipm ent unde r th e
exclLt~ive conu·ol of communications utilities located
outdoors or in building spates used exclusively for su ch
installations
70-29
90.2 ARTICLE 90- INTRODUCTION

(.5 ) Installations under Lhe exclu.~ive co11n-ol of an e lecn-ic

ut.ility whe1·e such installations Chapter 1 - General

a. Consist of service d rops or service laterals, and associ- Chapter 2 - Wiring and Protection Applies generally
ated metering, or to all electrical
b. Are o n property owned or leased by tl1e e lectric ut.ility Chapter 3 - Wiring Methods and Materials installations
for the purpose of communications, metering, gene1·•
Chapter 4 - Equipment for General Use
ation, co11trol, u-ansformation, u-ansmission, energy
storage, o r distribution of e lectric energy, or
c. Are located in legally established easem ents or rig ht~-
of~way, or IChapter 5 - Special Occupancies I
d . Are located by other written agreements either desig-
nated by or recognized by public service commissions,
Supplements or modifies IChapter 6 - Special Equipment I
utility comm issions, or other 1·egulato1-y agencies
Chapters 1 through 7
{ IChapter 7 - Special Conditions I
having j1Lrisdiction fo r such installat.ions. These writ-
ten agreements shall be limited to installations for the
prn:pose of cornmunications, meteri ng, generation, Chapter 8 is not subject
control. transforn1ation, tran~mission. energy storage, to the requirements of
or distributio n of elecu·ic energy where legally estab-
I. Chapter 8 - Communications Systems I}. Chapters 1 th r~ugh 7 except
where the reqt11rements are
lished easemenL~ or righ ts-of-way cannot be obtained.
specifically referenced In
These installations shall be Limited to federal land~. Chapter 8.
Native A meric,µ1 reservations through the U .S.
Department of d1e In terior Bureau of Indian Affairs,
IChapter 9 - Tables I} Applicable as referenced

military ba~es, lands controlled by port aum.orities
and state agenc ies and deparUlJents, and lands owned
b y railroads.
Informational Nme LO (4) and (5): Examples of utilities may
include those enriLie.s Lhat are typically designated or recognized
hy governmen tal law or regulation by p1tblic service/ m.ility
commissions a nd that install, operate, and maintain e lecr.ric
suppl y (such as g·enera1ion, r.ransmission, or disLribuLion
systems) or communications sys1ems (such as telephone, CATV,
Internet, satellite, or dat,-i services). ULiliLies may be su~ject 10
compliance with codes -and sr.andards covering their regulated
acrivities as adopted unde r governmental law or regulation.
Additio nal inJorn1ation ca n he found through consultation with
the appropriate governmental bodies. such a~ ~tale regulatory
com missions, Lhe Federal ~~nergy Regulatory Commi5sio n, and
the Feder.ii Comm unicalion~ Commission.
(C) Special Permission. The autl1ority having jurisdiction for
enforcing thi~ CQ(le may gr-ant exceptio n fqr tl1e installatio n of
conductors and equipment that ar e not unde1· th e exclusive
control of the e lecu·ic utilities and are LL5ed LO connect the elec-
tric utility supply system to the service conductors of the prem-
ises served, provided such installa tions are outside a building or
structure, or terminate inside at a 1·eadily accessible location
nearest d1e point of enu·ance of d1e service conductors.
90. 3 Code Arrangement. This Code is d ivided in to the inu·o·
duction a.nd nine c hapters, as shown in Fig ure 90.3. Chapters 1.
2, 3, and 4 apply generally. Chapters 5, 6, and 7 apply to special
occupancies, special equipment, or odie1· special conditions
and may s upplem ent or modify tlle requirements in Chapters I
through 7.
Cliapter 8 covers commw1ications syste ms and is not subject
to th e reguiremerns of Chapters l tl1rough 7 except where the
requirements are speci fically referenced in Chapter 8.
Ch apter 9 consists of tables mat are applicable as referenced.
Jnfomrntive annexes are not part of m e requirements of d1is
CorlP but are included for informatio na l purposes only.
Informative Annex A through } Informational on ly;
Informative Annex J not mandatory
FIGURE 90.3 Code Arrangement.
90.4 Enforcement. This Code is intended Lo be suitable for
mandatory applicatio n by governmental bodies ciiat exercise
legal jurisdic tio n over elecu·ica.l installations, including signal-
ing and communications systems, and for use by insura nce
iMpectors. The autl1ority having jmisdiction fo1· enforce ment
of d1e Code has the responsibility for making interpretations of
the rules, for decicUng on d1e approval of equipme nt and mate-
rials, a nd for granti ng tl1e special pen nission contemplated in a
number of die rules.
By special permissio n, d1e auU1ority having ju rl~dic tio n may
waive specific requirements in th is Cod11 o r pe rmit a lternative
med1ocl5 where it is a~sured that equivalent o bj ectives can be
achieved by establishing ,mcl maintaining effective safety.
Th is Corl(! may require new products, consn·uctions, or mate-
rials that m<1y not yet he available at tl1e time U1e Code is adop-
ted. In such event, die aud10rity having jurisdiction may permi t
the use of the products, constructions, o r materials m at comply
with die most recent previous edition of d1is Code adopted by
the jur isdiction.
90.5 Mandatory Rules, Permissive Rules, and Explanatory
Material.
(A) Mandatory Rules. Ma ndatory rules of th is Cod11 a re those
that ide ntify actions tllat are specifically required or prohibited
and are characterized by 1.h e use of the terms shall or shn11 not.
(B) Permissive Rules. Permissive rules of this Cor/p, are those
that ide nti fy actions tl1at are a llowed b ut not req11i 1·ed, a1·e
normally used to describe optio ns or alternative methods, and
are characteri zed by the ll5e of the terms shall bti permilled or
shall. not bP rrqui-red.

70-30 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition

 ARTICLE 90- INTRODUCTION
(C) Explanatory Material. Explanatory material, such as refer-
ences to other standards, references to related secLions of this
CIJllti, or information re lated to a Corle rule, is included in this
Code in the form of informational notes. Such notes are infor-
rnational only and are not enforceable a~ req uirements of this
Code.
Brackets containing section references to anoci1er NFPA
document are for infonll;itional purposes only a nd are provi-
ded as a guide to indicate the source of the exo-acted text.
These bracketed references immediately fo llow the exu·acted
text.
Infom1ational Note: The fonnat an<! language used in this Code
follows guidelines es1ablished hy NFPA and publishe<1 in d1e
NEC Sty/p Manual Copies of this manual can be obtained from
NFPA.
(D) Informative Annexes. Nonmandatory information relative
to the nse of the NEC is provided in informative annexes. Infor-
mative annexes are not part of the enforceable requiremenL~ of
ci1e NEC, but are included for information purposes only.
90.6 Formal Interpretations. To promote uniformity of inter-
pretation and applicaLion of this Cod11, formal interpretation
procedures have been established and are found in the NFPA
RegulaLions Governing Committee Proje cL5.
90. 7 Examination of Equipment for Safety. For specific items
of equipment and materials referred to in this Code, exami na-
tions for safety made w1cler standard conditions provide a basis
for approval where ci1e record is made generally available
through pro mulgation by organ izations properly equipped a11d
qualified for experi.mental testing, inspe ctions of the run of
goods at factories, and service-value determination through
field inspections. This avoids the necessity for repetition of
examinations by different exantiners, frequenlly with inade-
quate facil ities fo r such work, and the confusion ciiat would
result from conflicti11g repo rts on the sui.rabilit:y of devices and
materials examined for a given purpose.
It is the intent of this Code that factory-installed internal
wiring or the construction of equipment need not be inspected
at the time of installation of the equipment, except to detect
alterations or damage, if the equipment has been listed by a
qualified electrical testing lab oratory that is recognized as
having the facilities described in the preceding paragraph and
that requires suitability for installaLion in accordance with this
Corle. Suita bili ty shall be determined by application of require-
ments ci1at are compatible wici1 this Code.
Informational Note No. 1: See recp.uremenis in 1 10.3.
Informational Note No. 2: Listed is defined in Article 100.
Informational Note No. 3: Informative Annex A con rains a lis1 o f
product safety standards 1.hat are compatible with 1his God,:.
90.8 Wiring Planning.
(A) Future Expansion and Convenience. Plans and specifica-
tions ci1at provide amp le space in racewa)'S, spare raceways, and
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL E LECTRICAL CODE
90.9
additional spaces a llow for future increases in electric power
a nd communications cit-cuit~. D istrilmLion centers located in
readily accessible locations provide conven ience and safety of
o peration.
(B) Number of Circuits in Enclosures. It is elsewhe1-e provided
in this Codi! d1at the number of circ uit~ confined in a single
enclosure be vaqingly reso·icted. Limiting the number of
circuit;.~ in a single enclosw-e minimizes the effect~ from a short
circuit or ground fault.
90.9 Units of Measurement.
(A) Measurement System of Preference. For the pw-pose of
this Code, meuic unit~ of measurement are in accordance wid1
ci1e modernized meu-ic system known as ci1e Internationa l
System of Un.its (S I) .
(B) Dual System of Units. SI units sha ll appear first, a nd inch-
pound units shall immediately follow in parend1eses. Conver-
sion from inch-pound units to SI uniLi shall be based on ha1-d
conversion except a5 provided in 90.9(C).
(C) Permitted Uses of Soft Conversion. The cases given in
90.9(C)( l ) L11rough (C) (4) shall not be required tO use ha rd
conversion and shall he permitted to use soft conversion .
(1) Trade Sizes. Where me actual measured size of a product
is not the sam e a5 the nomina l size, u-ade size designarors shall
be used rather cha:n dimensio ns. Trade practices shall be
followed in all cases.
(2) Extracted Material. Where material is extracted From
a nother standard, ci1e context of the original mate rial shall not
be compromised or violated. Any edi ting of the exu-acted text
shall be confined to making the style consistent wiLh that of the
NEC.
(3) Industry Practice. Where indLL5U-Y p r;i_cLice is to expres.s
units in inch-potmcl units, the inclusion of SI unit5 shall nor. be
1·equired.
(4) Safety. Wh ere a negative impact on safety would resulL,
soft conversion shal l be u sed.
(D) Compliance. Conversio n from inch-pound unit~ to SJ
LltliLs sha ll be permitted to be an a pproximate conversion.
Compliance with the numbers shown in e ithe r the SI system or
the inch-pound system shal.l constitute compliauce ¼ith this
Code.
Informational Nole No. I; Hard conversion is considered a
change in dimensions or prope rties of an ii.em into new sizes
tha1 might or rnlghr not be 1111.erchangeable with the sizes used
in rJ1e original m easu remenL Sot\. conversion is conside red a
direcc mathematical conversion and involves a change in r.he
description of an existing measurement but not in the actual
d ime nsion.
lnformational Note No. 2: Sl conversions are based o n LEEE/
ASTM SJ 10-1\197, Stcwdiml.for th,i ll.w• uf the l nlematioual Syi ll.•m o/
Units (SI): Thr. Mo,lem Metrir S)\511,m.
70-31
CHAPTERl ARTICLE 100-DEFINlTIONS
Chapter l General
ARTICLE 100
Definitions
Scope. This article contains only those definitions essentia l to
the application of chis Code. It is noL intended to include
comm on ly defined general terms o r commo nly defined techni-
cal terms fro m related codes and standards. In general, on ly
those terms tl1at are used in t:"1110 or mo re articles a re defined in
Article lOO. Defin.iLions are aL~o found in XXX.2 sectio ns of
other articles.
Part I of th is article contains defmitions intended Lo apply
whereve1- the terms are used throughout Lhis Code. Part IT
contain..~ definitions applicable to installa l.ions and eg uipment
operating at over 1000 volts, nominal . Part m contain.~ defini-
tio ns appl icable to Hazardou~ (Classified) Locations.
Part I. General
Accessjble (as applied to equipment). Capable of bein g
reached for operation, renewal, and U'L~pection. (CMP-1)
Accessible (as applied to wiring methods) . Capable of be u1g
removed or exposed witlm ut damaging the building structure
or fi nish or not p ermanently closed in by tl1e su-ucttu-e or finish
of the building. (CMP-1)
Accessjble, Readily (Readily Accessible) . Capable of being
reached quickly for operation, renewal, o r inspections without
requiring those tO whom ready access is requisite to rake
actions suc h as to use tools (other than keys), to cl imb over or
under, to remove obstacles, or to resort to portable Ladders,
and so forth. (CMP-1)
Informational Note: Use of keys is a common practke unde1·
conU"o lled or supervised conditions and a common ahernative
to 1.he ready access requiremem5 under such supervised condi.-
Lions as provided elsewhe re in th e NEC.
Adjustable Speed Drjve. Power con version eqt1.ipmem tha t
provides a means of adjusting the speed of an e lectric moLOr.
(CMP-1 l )
Informational Note: A variable frequency drive is one type or
elecrronic a(\jL1stahle speed drive Lha1. comrols 1he rota.tio nal
speed of an ac eleci.ric mmor by controlling 1.he frequen cy a nd
voltage of 1.he elecu'ical power supplied LO rhe mOLor.
Adjustable Speed Drive System. A combination of an acljusta-
ble speed drive, its associated motor(s), a nd auxiliary e<]uip-
ment. (CM P-11 )
Ampacity. 111e m aximum current, in amperes, that a conduc-
tor can cany continuoll5ly under tl1e conrliLions of use witl1om
exceeding it5 temperature rating. (CMP-6)
Appliance. Uti lization e<]Uipment, generally other than indus-
trial, that is normally built u1 standardized sizes 01· types and L5
installe d or connected as a unit to perform one or more fw1c-
tions suc h a~ clothes washing, air-condiLioning, food mixing,
deep f1y ing, and sofonh. (CMP-17)
70-32
Approved. Acceptable to the autl1ority havi ng juriscliction.
(CMl'-1)
Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupte r (AFCn. A device inte nded to
p1-ovide protection from tl1e effect5 of arc fau lt5 by recognizing
cl1aract;eristics uniq ue to arcing and by functionin g to de-
energize m e circuit when an arc fau lt is detected. (CMP-2)
Askarel. A gene ric tenn for a group of nonAammable synthe tic
chlorinated hydrocarbons used as elecu·ical insulating media.
(CMP-9)
fn formationa l Note: Askarels or various compositional types are
used. Under arcing conditions, rhe gases produced, 1,hile
consisting predominanrly of noncombustible hrdrogen chlor-
ide, can include varying amounts of combus1.ible gases, depend-
ing 011. the askarel type.
Attachment Fitting. A device tllal, by insertion mto a locking
s upport and mounting receptacle, establis hes a connection
betwee n th e cond1-1ctors of the attached 1.1tilization equipment
and the b ranch-ci1-cuit conductors connected to the locking
support and mounting receptacle. (CMP- 18)
Informational Note; An auachmeni liuing is different from an
:rnach1uent p lug because llO cord is associated with 1.he fi tting.
An attachmenc titting in combination wjrJ1 a locking support
and mo1.1111jng receptacle sec1.1r1~s the associated ul.ilizat.ion
equipment in p lace and supports irs weighL
A ttachment. Plug (Plug Cap) (Plug). A device tl1at, by inse rtion
in a receptacle, establishes a connection between th e conduc-
tors of the a ttached flexihle cord and tJ1e conductors connec-
ted pennanently to tl1e receptacle . (CMP-18)
Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). An o rganization, office,
or iJ1tlividual r esponsible for e nforcin g the requi remen t~ of a
code or standard, or f'or a pprovmg equipment, mate rials, an
instal lation, or a procedtu-e . (CMP-1)
Tnfo nnaLional Note: The phrase "aurl10ri1:y having jurisdiction."
or its acronym AHJ, is 1.1sed in Nl"PA documents in a broad
manner, since jurisdictions and approval agencies l"ary, a;; do
their responsfoiliues. 'v\fhere public safety is primary, rhe author-
ity having jurisdinion may be a federal, srai.e, local, or ncher
regional departmem o r individual such as a lire chief; fire
marsh al: chief of a fire prevention bureau, labor department, o r
health deparnnem; build ing official; electrical inspector; or
orherll having statutory authority. F'o-r insurance purposes, an
insurance inspenio n deparu11enl, raring bureau, or ot her insur-
ance compa ny represe ntative may he the amhorii:y having juris-
ruct.ion. Jn many circwnstances, rhe properly owner or his or
her designa1ed agen1. a.~sumes the ro le o f 1.he aurl1oricy having
jurisdiction; a1 governmem insr.allaLlo ns, the commanding offi-
cer or deparunen~,I official may be the a urhori1.y havingjllrisdic-
6011 •
Automatic. PerformiJ1g a function with out the necessity of
h ttman imervention. (CMP-1)
B athroom. An area including a sink (basin) with o ne or more
of tl1e fo llowing: a toilet, a urinal , a tub, a shower, a bid e L, o r
similar p lumbing fixtures. (C..MP-2)
Battery System. interconnected batter y subsystems consisting
of one rn- 111.ore strn·age ba tteri es a nd battery chargers, a nd. can
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 100 - DEFINITIONS
inclurle inverters, converters, and associated electrical equip-
ment. (CMP-13)
Bonded (Bonding). Connected to establish eleco·ical continu-
ity and conductivity. (CMP-5)
Bonding Conductor or Jumper. A reliable conductor to e nsure
th e required e lectrical conductivity between metal parts
required to be electrically con nected. (CMP-5)
Bonding Jumper, Equjpment. The connection between Lwo or
more portions of the equiprnent grounding conductor.
(CMP-.5)
Bonding Jumper, Main. The connecticm l;>elween the grow1-
ded ci rcuit conductor a nd the equipment grounding conduc-
tor, or the supply-side bonding jumper, or both, al the se1vice.
(CM.P-5)
Bonding Jumper, Supply-Side . A conductor installed on the
supply side of a service or within a service equipment enclo-
sure(s), or for a separately derived system, that enst\l'es the
required electrical conductivity between metal parts required
Lo be electrically co1mected. (CMP-5)
Bonding Jumper, System. The connect.ion between the groun-
ded circuit conductor and the supply-si<;le bondingjumpei~. 01·
d1e e<]uipment grounding conductor, or born, at a separately
derived system. (CMP-5)
Branch Circuit. The circuit conductors between me final over-
current device protecting me circuit and the o udet(s) .
(CMP-2)
Branch Circuit, Appliance. A branch circuit that supp lies
energy to one or more outlets to which appliances are to be
connected and that ha~ no permanently connected luminaires
d1at are not a part of an appliance. (CMP-2)
Branch Circuit, General-Purpose. A branch circuit d1al
supplies two 01· more receptacles or outlet.~ for lighting a nd
appliances. (CMP-2)
Branch Circuit, Individual. A branch circuit drnt supplies on ly
one utilization equ.ipm ent. (CMP-2)
_Branch Circuit, Multiwire. A bra nch circuit that consisrs of two
or more ungrotmded conductors tlrnt have a voltage between
them, and a grounded conductor that ha-, eC]Ual voltage
between it and each ungrounde d conductor of the circuit and
d1aL L~ connected to the neutral or grounded conductor of the
system. (CMP-2)
Building. A stn.1cture that stands a lone or that is separated
from acljoining scructures by fire walls. (CMP-1)
Cabinet. An enclosw·e that is designed for e ither surface
mounting or flush mounting and is provided with a fram e, mat,
or u·im in which a swinging door or doors are or can be hung.
(CMP-9)
CabJe, Coaxial. A cylindi-ical assembly composed of a conduc-
tor centered inside a metallic tube or sh ie ld, separated b y a
dielectric material, and usually covered b)' an insulatingjacket.
(CMP- l fi)
Cable, Optical Fibe1·. A factory assembly or field assembly of
one or more optical fibers having an overaU covering.
(CMP- l fi)
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
CHAPTER I
lnfr>rmarlonal Nme: A lie lcl-a~sembled opl.ical fiber cable is an
assembly of one or more op Li cal fibers wirhin a jacker. TI1e
jacket, without optical liber.s, i.s installed in a manner similar to
conduit or raceway. Once the jacker i~ installed. the opl.ical
fibers are insened inm the jacket, completing the cable assem-
bly.
Cable, Optical Fiber, Composite. A cable containing optical
fibers and current-canying e lectrical conductors. (CMP-16)
Cable, Optical Fiber, Conductive. A factory assembly of one or
more optical fibers having an overaU covering and containing
non-current-carrying conductive member(s) suc h a5 metallic
su·ength member(s), metallic vapor harrier(s) . metall ic armor,
or metallic sheath. (CMP-16)
Cable, Optical Fiber, Nonconductive. A factory assembly of
one or more o ptical fibers havi.ng an overall covering and
containing no electricaUy conducti11 e materials. (CMP-16)
Cable Routing Assembly. A single c ha,mel o r c01mected multi-
ple c ha nnels, as well a5 a5sociated fittings, forming a SU'Uctural
system d1at is used to support and route communications wires
and cables, optical fiber cables, data cables associated with
information technology and commun ications e<]uipment,
Class 2, Cla5s 3, and Type PLTC cables, and power-limited fire
a larm cables in plenum, rise1~ and general-purpose a pplica-
tions. (CMP-16)
Charge Controller. Eqttipme nt Lhat con trol~ de voltage o r de
current, or botJ1, and dial is used to charge a battery or otJ1er
e nergy storage device . (CMP-13)
Cfrcuit Breaker. A device designed to open and close a c ir cuit
by nonautomatic means and to open the c ircuit automatically
on a predetermined overcurren t wimo ut damage to j tqelf when
prope d y applied within it5 rating. (CMP-10)
Informationa l No1e: The automatic opening rne<1ns can be inte-
gral, direct acting with the circuit breaker, or remote l'rom 1he
circuhbreaker.
Adjustable (as appluid lo rimdt brPaliers). A qualifying term indi-
cating diat the circuit breaker can be set to u·ip at variom
values of ctu-renl, time, or both, within a predetermined range.
lnsta.nl11nmw; 'trip (as 11J1plinl to circuit brealun:1). A q ua lifying
term indicating diat no delay is purposely inu·oduced in tJ1e
tripping action of die c ircuit breaker.
lnversf Time (as applier/ /.o circuil 1:n-ealle,:O. A qualifying term i ncli-
cating tl1at the1·e is purposely introduced a delay in the tripping
action of the circuit hreake,~ which delay decreases as the
magnitude of th e current inCl"ea~es.
Nmwdjustablf (as a/1plied to drcuil bmalle1:r). A qualifying term
indicating tl1aL the circuit breaker does nm have any adju~t-
menl to a lter me value of die current at which it will n-.ip or die
time required for it~ operation.
Setting (of cirr1.ti/. bmakers). The va lue of current, Lime, or both, al
which a n adjustable c ircui t breaker is set to trip.
Circuit Integrity (CI) Cable. Cable(s) LL\ecl for remote-control,
signal.ing, or power-limited system s that supply c1i tical c ircuits
to e nsure survivability for continued cir·cuit o peration fot' a
specified time LU1der fire conditio t1s. (CMP-3)
70-33
CHAPTER! ARTICLE 100-DEFINITIONS
CJass I Circuit. The porlion of the wi ring system between the
load side of me overcurrent device or power-limited supply and
the connecLed eguipment. (CMP-3)
lnformational Note: See 725.41 for voltage and power limim-
uons of Cla.$S l circ1-1irs.
Class 2 Circuit. The portion of the wiring system bet-ween the
load side of a Class 2 power source and the connected equip-
ment. Due to iL~ power limitatio1L~. a Class 2 circuit considers
safety from a fire initiation standpoint and provides acceptable
protection from electric shock. (CMP-3)
Class 3 Circuit. The portion of the wiring syste m between the
load side of a Class 3 power source and the connected equip-
ment. Due to its power li1nitations, a Class 3 circuit considers
safel)' from a fire initiation standpoint. Since higher level~ of
voltage and current than for Class 2 are pern1ittecl, adrlitio nal
safeguards are specified to provide protection from an e lecU"ic
shock hazard that could be encountered. (CMP-3)
Clothes Closet. A nonJ1abitable room or space inte 11ded
primarily for storage of garmenl~ and apparel. (CMP-1)
Communications Equipment. The elecb·onic equipment that
performs the telecommrn1ications operations for the tran.~mis-
sion of audio, video, and data, and in cludes power equipment
(e.g., de converters, inverters, and batteries), technical support
equipment (e .g., computers), and conductors dedicated solely
co the operalion of the erruipment. (CMP- 16)
Lnforrnational Note: A.s the telecommunications network minsi-
i:ions IO a more data-cen1.ric network, computers, routers, serv-
ers. and !heir powerin,g equipmen1. a 1·e becoming essential to
the transmission of a1-1dio. video. and data and are finding
increasing application in communkauons equipmenr insmlla-
cions.
Concealed. Rendered inaccessible by the su·ucture or finish of
the building. (CMP- 1)
lnformacional Note: Wires in concealed raceways are considered
con cealed. even though 1:hey may become accessible by wir.h-
drawing them.
Conductor, Bare. A conductor having no covering or elect1·ical
insulation whaLsoever. (CMP-6)
Conductor, Covered. A conducror enca5ed wi thin material of
composition or thickness that is not recognized by ci1is CodP as
e lecu·ical insulation. (CMP-6)
Conductor, Insulated. A conduc tor encased within material of
composition and ci1ickness that is recognized by this CodP as
electrical insulation. (CMP-6)
Conduit Body. A separate portion of a condttil or tubing
system that provides access tJ1rough a removable cover(s) to
the inte rior bf the system at a junction of two or more sections
of the system or at a terminal point of the system.
Boxes such as FS and FD or larger ca5t or sheet meta l boxes
are not classified as conduit bodies. (CMP-9)
Connector, Pressure (Solderless). A device that establish es a
connection between two or more conductors or between one
or more conductors and a terminal by means of mechanical
pressure and without ci1e use o f solder. (CMP-1 )
Continuous Load. A load where the rua-ximum current i~
expected to conti nue fo r 3 lwurs or more. (CMP-2)
70-34
Control Circuit. The cirCLtit of a conu·ol appararus or system
that carries the electric sign,1ls directing the performance of
ci1e conu·oller but does not carry the main powe1· curre nt.
(CMP-11)
Controller. A device 01· group of devices ci1at se1·ves to govern,
in some predetermined manner, the e lectric powei· delivered
to the apparatus to which it is connected. (CMP-1)
Cooking Unit, Counter-Mounted. A cooking appliance
designed for mounting in or on a counter and consisting of
one or more heating elements, internal ·wiring, and built-in or
mountable controls. (CMP-2)
Coordination, Selective (Selective Coordination). Localization
of an overcurrent condition to restrict outages to the circuit or
equipment affected, accornpli.5hed by the selection a nd inst:alb-
tion of overcurrent protective devices and tJ1eir ratings or
settings for me full rnnge of available overcurrents, from over-
load to the available fault ctu-rent, and for the foll range o r
overcurrent protective device opening times associated with
those overcurrents. (CMl'-10)
Copper-Clad Aluminum Conductors. Conductors drawn from
a copper-clad aluminum rod, with the copper metallurgically
bonded to an alum.inu1u core, where the copper forms a mini-
mum of l O percent of the cross-sectional ,u·ea of a .~olid
conductor or each strand of a sU"anderl conductor. (CMP-fi)
Cutout Box. An enclosure desig ned for surface mounting that
has swinging doors or covers secured d irectly to and telescop-
ing wici1 the walls of the enclosure. (CMP-9)
DC-to-DC Convertet A device ci1al can provide ,u1 output de
voltage and cm-rem at a higher or lower 11:=1lue than the input
de voltage and current. (CMP-4)
Dead Front. v\Tithour live parts exposed to a person on die
operating side of the egwpment. (CMP-9)
Demand Factor. The ratio of tJ1e ma-ximum demand of a
system, or part of a system, to tl1e total connected load of a
system or the pa.rt of the system under consideration. (CMP-2)
Device. A Lmit of a n electrical s-ystem, other than a conducto1·,
that carries or controls e lecu·ic energy a~ its principal function.
(CMP-1)
Disconnecting Means. A device, or group of d evices, o r other
means by wh ich the conductors of a circuit can be clisconnec-
t.ed from their som ce of s11pply. (CMP-1)
Dormitory Unit. A building o r a space in a building in which
group sleeping accommodations ar e provided for more d1an
16 perso1L5 who are not membe rs of the same family in one
room, or a se1·ies of closely associated rooms, under j oint occu-
pancy and single management, witJ1 or wici1out meals, but witJ1-
0lll individual cooking facilities. (CMP 2)
Duly, Continuous. Operation at a substan tially constant load
for a n indefinite ly long time. (CMP-1)
Duty, Intermittent. Operation for a lternate intervals of( ! )
load and no load; or (2) load and rest; or (3) load, no load,
and rest. (CMP- l)
Duty, Periodic. 1ntennittent operation in which the load
conditions are regularly recurrent. (CMP-1)
Duty, Short-Time. Operation at a substantially constant load
for a short and definite, specified time. (CMP-1)
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 AIITIC.LE 100- DEFlNITlONS
Duty, Varying. Operation at loads. and for i.ntervals of time,
both of which may be subject to wide variation. (CMP-1)
Dwelling, One-Family. A bui.kling that consist5 solely of one
dweUing unil. (CMP-1)
Dwelling, Two-Family. A building that consists sole ly of two
dwelling units. (CMP-1)
Dwelling, Multifamily. A building that contains three or more
dwelling units. (CMP-1)
Dwelling Unit. A single unit, providi.ng complete and imle-
penclent Living facilities for one or mo1·e persons, iuclucling
permanent provisions for living, sleeping, cooking, and sanita-
tion. (CMP-2)
Effective Ground-Fault Current Path. An intentionally
cor1.rnT1cted, low-impedance elecu·ically conductive path
designed and intended to carry current m1der ground-fault
conditions from the point ofa ground fault on a wiring system
to the electrical supply smu-ce and that facilitates the operation
of the ove1·current protective device or ground-fault detectors.
(CMP-5)
Electric Power Production and Distribution Network. Power
production, distribution, and utilization equipment and facili-
ties, such as e lecu·ic utility systems that ar e con nected to prem-
L~es wiring and are external to and not conu·olled by an
interactive system. (CMP-13)
Electric Sign. A fixed, stationary, or portable self-contained,
electrically operated and/ or electrically illuminated milization
equipment with words or symbols designed to convey info1rna-
tion or attract attention. (CMP-18)
Electric Vehicle (EV). An automotive-type vehicle for on-road
Llse, such as passenger automobil es, buses, truck.~, vans, neigh-
borhood e lecu-ic vehicles, electric motorcycles, anc;l the like,
primarily powered by an electric motor that draws current from
a rechargeable stornge batte1·y, fuel cell, photovoltaic army, or
other source of electric cu1TenL Plug-in h ybrid e lectric vehicles
(PHEV) are electric vehicles li.aving a second source of motive
power. Oll~road, selC-prope lled electric mobile equipme nt, such
as industrial trucks, ho ist~, Li.fts, transports, golf carts, ajrline
ground support equjpment, tractors, boats, and the Jjke, are
not considered elecu-ic vehicles. (CMP- L2)
Electrical Circuit Protective System A $}'Stem consisting of
components and materials intended for installation as protec-
tion for specific elech·ical wiring systems with respect ro the
disruption of electrical c i1-cui t integrity upon exterior fire expo-
sure. (CMP-16)
Electrical Datum Plane. A specified distance above a water
level above which e lectrical equipment can be installed and
elecu·ical connections can be made. (CMP-7)
Electric-Discharge Lighting. Systems of illumination utilizing
fluorescent lamps, high-inte nsity discharge (HID) lamps, or
neon tubing. (CMP-18)
Electronically Actuated Fuse. An overcmrem protec tive device
that generally consists of a control module that provides
cun:ent-sensing, eleetronicaUy de1·ive d time-ctuTent character-
istics, energy to init.iate tripping, and an interrupting module
that interrupts current when an overcurrem occurs. Such fuses
may or may not operate in a current-limiting fash ion, depend-
ing on the type of conu-ol selected. (CMP-IO)
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
CHAPTER I
Enclosed. Surrounded by a case, housing, fen ce, or wal.l(s) that
prevent5 persons from accidentaUy contacting energized parts.
(CMP-1)
Enclosure. The case or housing of apparatus, or the fence or
walls surrounding an installation to prevent personnel from
accidentally contacting energized parts or to protect the equip-
ment from physical damage. (CMP-1)
Informational Not.e: See Table 110.28 for examples of enclosure
types.
Energized. Elecu·ically connected to, 01- is, a source of voltage.
(CMP -1)
Equipment. A general cern1, including fittin gs, devices, appli-
ances, luminaires, apparan1s, machinery, and the like med as a
part ol·; or in connectio n with , an e lectrical installation.
(CMP-1)
Equipotential PJane. Accessible conductive parts bonded
togeth er to 1~ed11ce voltage gradients in a designated area.
(CMP-17)
Exposed (as applied to live parts). Capable of being inadver-
tently wuched o r approached neai·er than a safe distance by a
pe1-son. (CMP-1 )
lnfrirmariona l Note: This Lenn applies to partt that are not suita-
bly guarded, isolated, o r insulated.
Exposed (as applied to wiring methods). O n or attached to the
smface or behind panels designed Lo a llow access. (CM P-1)
E.xtemally Operable. Capable of being operated without
exposing the operator to contact with live parts. (CMP-1 )
Fault Current. D1e nu-rent delivered at a point on the system
du1i.ng a sho rt-circuit condition. (CMP-10)
Fault Current, Available (Available Fault Current). The largest
amount of current capable of being delivered at a poin t on the
system during a short-circuit condition. (CMP-10 )
Informational Note; A short-circuit can occur during abnormal
conditions s1.1cl1 as a fault between circuit conductors or a
ground fau lt. See lnfonuational Nore Figure 100.1.
Feeder. All circuit conductors between tl1e service equipment,
the soLu·ce of a separately derived system, or other power
supply source and the final branch-circuit overcurrent device.
(CTvIP-10)
Festoon Lighting. A string of outdoor Lights that is stt5pended
between two point~. (CMP-18)
Field Evaluation Body (FEB). An organization or p,u·t of an
organization ihat performs field evaluations of electrical or
other eq uipment. (790, 2018] (CMP-1)
Informational Noce: NFPA 790-2018, Star,tlmd Jc,,: G'o·mptJ(tnl)' of
17iitd-Pctr~ Field b1a.ltwtian BoditS, provides guidelines lo r esral>-
lishing rhe qualificatinn and competency of a body performing
fi eld evaluat.ions of elecu:ical products and assembles with elec-
1rica.l components.
Field Labeled (as applied to evaluated products). Equipment
or mate1·ials to wh ich has been attache d a label, symbol, or
other identrfying mark ofan FEB indicating the equipment or
material~ were evaluated and found to comply with require-
ments a~ described in at1 accompanying fie ld evaluation 1·eport.
[790,20 l81 (CMP-1)
70-35
CHAPTER l ARTICLE 100-DEFINITIONS
Supply source: ac or de
Available fault current
Equipment
Equipment with a short-circuit
current rating I I
I I
: OCPD:
Overcurrent protective device--'---' : when a ground-fault current exceeds the values established for
with an interrupting rating [__ ___J
Available fault current
Load
Informational Note Figure 100.1 Available Fault Current.
Fitting. An accessory such as a locknut, bushing, or other part
of a wiring system tha t is intended primati_ly to perform a
mechanical rather than an electricaJ function. (CMP-1)
Free Au· (as applied to conductors) . Open or ventilated envi-
ronment that allows fo1· heal dissipation and air flow around an
installed conducwr. (GMP-6)
Fuel Cell. An electroch em ical system that consumes fue l to
produce an electric current. In such cells, the ma in chemical
reaction used for producing electric power is not combu~tion.
However, there may be sources of combustion used within the
overall cell system, such as reformers/ fuel processors. (CMP-4)
Fuel Cell System. l11e complete aggregate of equipment used
to convert chemica l fuel into usable electricity and typically
consi~ting of a refo1·mer, stack, power inverte1·, and auxiliary
equipment. (CM P-4)
Garage. A building or porti on of a building i.n which one or
more self-propelled vehicles can be kept for use, sale, storage,
rental, repair, exhibition, or demonstration purposes. (CMP-1)
lnformaUonal Note: For comme1·dal garages. re pair and stor-
age, see Article 51 I.
Generating Capacity, Inverter. The sum of parallel-connected
inverter maximum continuou5 output power at 40°C in watts or
kilowatt~. (CMP-4)
Ground. The earth. (CMP-5)
Ground Fault. An unintentiona.l, electrically conductive
connection between an w1grounded conducto1- of an e lectrical
circuit a.nd the normally non-current-carrying conductors,
metallic enclosures, metallic raceways, metallic equipment, or
earth . ( CMP-5)
70-36
Grounded (Grounding). Connected (connecting) to ground
or to a conductive body that extends the groLmd connectio n.
(CMP-5)
Grounded, Solidly. Connected to groLmd wid1our inserting any
resistor or impeda nce device. (CMP-5)
Grounded Conductor. A system or circuit conductor that is
intentionally grounded. (CMP-5)
Informational Nme: AlLhough an eqnipmenL grounding
conducrnr i.s grounded. it is not considered a grow1clecl conclL1c-
to1:
Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). A device intended
for the protection of personnel tha t functions to de-energize a
circuit o r portion thereof within an established period of time
a Class A device. (CMP-2)
lnformatinna.l Nore: Class A ground-fault c ircuit imerrnpleri;
tiip when the ground-fault currem is 6 mA or higher and do not
trip when the grnund-faulr. currem is less than 4 mA. For htrther
information, see UL 943, Strmdard for Grot(.'lld-Frwll Gi1n1il lnl.L1·-
rnp1ers.
Ground-Fault Current Path. An elecu·ically conductive pal11
from the point of a ground fault on a wiring system through
normally non-current-carrying conductors, grounded conduc-
tors, equipment, 01· die earth to the e lectrical supply source.
(CMP-5)
lnfomrnUonaJ Nore: E.xamples of ground·faulr curre m paths are
-any comhinaUon of equipmem grounding conductors, metallic
raceways. metallic cable shearhs. e lecu·kal e<]uipmenr. and any
mher electricall)' conducLive material such as metal, warer, and
ga~ piping; steel framing members: srucco mesh: metal ~lucling;
reinforcing sceel; shields of communicat.ions cables; grounded
conductors; and the earth itself'.
Ground-Fault Protection of EquipmenL A system intended tO
provide protection of equipment from damaging Ii ne-to-
ground fault currents by operating Lo cause a disconnecting
means to open all ungrounded conductors of the faulted
circuit. l11is protection is provided at c urrent levels less than
those required to protect conductors from damage through
d1e operation of a supply circuit overcunent device. (CMP-5)
Grounding Conductor, Equipment (EGC). A conductive
path (s) d1at is part of an effective ground-fault current path
and co11.11ects normally non-current-can-ying me ta l parL~ of
equipment toged1er and to the system grounded conductor o r
to L11e grounding electrode conductor, or both. (CMP-5)
In formaUona l Note No. 1: Ir is recognized chai the equipment
grounding condLtctor a lso performs bonding.
In formationa l Note No. 2: See 250.118 for a list of acce ptable
equipmenL grounding conductors.
Grounding Electrode. A conducting ot?ject through which a
direct connection to earth is established. (CMP-5)
Grounding Electrode Conductor. A conductor used to connec t
the system grounded conductor or the equipment to a ground-
ing e lecn·ode or to a point on the grow1ding e lecu·ode syste m.
(CMP-5)
Guarded. Covered, shielded, fenced, e nclosed, or otherwise
protected by means af suitable covers, casings, barriers, rails,
screens, mats, or platforms to remove the like lihood of
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 AITTTCLE 100 -
approach or contact by persons or objects w a point of danger.
(CMP-1)
Guest Room. An acco11unodation combining living, sleeping,
sanitary, and storage fac ilities within a compartment. (CMP-2)
Guest Suite. An accommodation \vith two rn· more contigumL5
rooms comprising a compartment, with or without doors
between such rooms, that provides living, sleeping, sanitary,
and storage faciJities. (CMP-2)
Habitable Room. A room in a building for living, sleeping,
eating, or cooking, but excluding bathroom.~, toilet rooms, clos-
et,;, hallways, stonJge or uti lity spaces. and similar area5.
(CMP-2)
Handhole Enclosure. An enclosure for use in u.ndergrow1d
systems, provided with an open or closed bottom, and sized to
allow personnel to reach into, but not ente1·, for the ptu·pose of
installing, operating, or maintaining equipment or wiring or
both. (CMP-9)
Hermetic Refrigerant Motor-Compressor. A combination
consisting of a compressor a nd mot01; both of which are
enclosed in the same housing, with no external shaft or shaft.
seals, wid1. the motor opei-ating in the refrigerant. (CtvrP-11)
H oistway. An y shaftway, hatchway, well hole, or other vertical
opening 01· space in which an e levator or d umbwaiter is
designed to operate. (CMP-12)
Hybrid System. A system comprised of multiple power sources.
These power sou rces could includ e photovoltaic, wind, micro-
hydro generators, engine-driven generators, and others, but do
not include electric power production and disu·ibution
network systems. Energy storage systems sucl1 a5 batteries,
nywheels, or superconducting magnetic storage equipment do
not constitute a powe1· source for d1e purpose of this defini-
tion. The energy regenerated by an overhauling (descending)
e levator does not constitute a power source for the purpose of
this de finition. (CMP-4)
Identified (as applied to equipment). Recognizable a~ suitable
for the specific purpose, function, use, environment, applica-
tion. and so ford1, where described in a pa.rticula1· Code req u.i1-e-
ment. (CMP-l )
Informational Note: Some examples of ways to determine suita-
bi lity of equipmem for a specific purpose, e nviro nme nt., or
app]jcation include investigations by a qualified rest.ing labora-
lO',i (listing and labeling), an inspec tion agency, or other organ-
izations concerned with product evaluation.
In Sight From (Within Sight From, Wilhm Sight) . Where this
Codi' specifie:s that one e9uipme nt $hall be "in ~ight from ,"
"wi thin sight from,"' o r "within sight oe'" and so forth, another
e9uipmem, the specified equipment is r.o be vi~ible and not
more tl1.111. l5 m (50 ft) d istant from the other. (CMP-1)
Industrial Control Panel. An a5sembl)' of two or more compo-
nents consisting of one of the following: (l ) power circuit
compone nts only, such a5 motor controll ers, overload re lays,
fu~ed disconnect switches, and c ircuit breakers; (2) control
circuiL component5 only, such as push buttons, pilot light5,
selector switches, timers, switches, and conu·ol .relays; (3) a
combination of powe r and control circuit components. These
components, with a5sociated wiring and terminals, are moun-
ted on, or con tained -within, an endostu-e or mounted on a
subpanel.
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
DEFlNrTJONS CHAPTER I
The indusuial control panel does not include the conn·oUed
equipment (CMP-11)
Information Technology Equipment (ITE). E9ttipment and
system.5 raced 1000 vol ts or less, n ormally found in offices or
o d1er business establishments and similar environments classi-
fied as ordinary locations, tJ1at are u sed for creation and
manipulation of data, voice, video, and similar signal5 that are
not communications equipmenL as defined in Pan I of Articl e
lO0 and do not process com munications circuits as defined in
805.2. (CMP-12)
l nform::nlonal Note: Fo r informarjo n on listing re.qufrernems for
both information technology eq,tipmem and communications
equipment, see UL 60950-1-2014, fojimnation Terlmology Eq11i/>-
·mmL - Safety - Pat/ I: Gmernl Requimme11Lr or UL 62368-1-20 14.
A11dio/Vid,'o Infi1rmatio11 anri Com.1111.miralion Technology l!:qui/muml
Pr,rt 1: Sctfaly R.equir11111.11nls:.
Information Technology Equipment Room. A room within tJ1e
information technoloi,,iy equipment a rea th at contains die
information technology equipment. f75:3.3.14l (CMP-12)
Innerduct. A no nmetallic raceway placed ,vit11in a larger race-
way. (CMP-16)
Interactive Inverter. An inverter i_ntended for use in parallel
1\litl1 power solll·ce(s) such as an elecu·ic utility ro supply
commo n loads and capable of deli\1ering power to the utility.
(CMP-13)
Interactive System. An elecu·ic power production system tJ1at is
operating in parailel with and capable of delivering ene1-gy to
an electric primary som ce supply system. (CMP-4)
Interrupting Rating. The highest currem at ra ted voltage tJ1at
a device is identified co interrupt under standard test concli-
Liom. (CMP-10)
Informational Note: Equipmem intended LO interrupt current at
other than fault le\1els may have j L~ imerrupting 111r.ing implied
in pther ratings, such as horsepower or locked rotor current.
Intersystem Bonding Termination. A device that provides a
means for connecting intersystem bond ing conductors for
communication.5 systems to the grounding electrode system.
(CMP-16)
Inverter. Equipment that changes de to ac. (CMP-4)
Inverter Input Circuit. Conductors connected to tl1e de i11put
ofan inverter. (CMP-13)
Inverter Output Circuit. Conductors connected to d1e
ac outpu t ofan inverter. (CM P-13)
Inverter, Multimode. Equipment having tJ1e capabilities of
both tl1e interactive inverter a nd the stand-alone inverter.
(CMJl-4)
Island Mode. The operational mode for stand-alone power
productio n equipme nt o r an isolated microgrid, o r for a multi-
mode inverter or an in terconnected microg1-id tha t i.~ discon-
nected from an e lectr ic power production and distribution
network or other primary power sotu-ce. (CMP-4)
lnformat.ional Nore: Isolated microgrids are distingujshed from
interconnected microgri<ls, which are addressed in Article 705.
Isolated (as applied to location). Not readi ly accessible to
persons unless special means for access are ·used. (Cl\1P- l )
70-37
CHAPTER I ARTICLE 100 -DEFINITIONS
Kitchen. An area with a sink and permanent provision.~ for
food preparation and cooking. (GMP-2)
Labeled. Equipment or materials to which has· been attached a
label, symbol, or other iden ti.fying mark of an organizatio n Lhar
is acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction and
concerned with product evaluation, that maintains periodic
inspection of production of labeled equipment or materials,
and by whose labe ling tJ1e manufacn,rer indicates compliance
with appropriate standards or perfrn-ma nce in a specified
manner. (CMP-1)
lnformal.ional Note: Lf a l.i sted product is of such a size, shape,
material. or s urface texture thar iris not possible LO apply legjhly
rhe complete label m the proclLJct, rhe complete label may
appear on the smallest 1.111il contmnet in which the product is
packaged.
Laundry Area. An area containing or designed to contain a
laundry tray, clod1es washer, or clothes rlryer. (CMP-2)
Lighting Outlet. An outlet intended for the direct connec tion
ofa lampho lder or luminaire. (GMP-18)
Lighting Track (Track Lighting). A manufactured assembl)'
designed to support and energize lumina.ires that are capable
of being readil y repositioned on the track. Its length om be
altered by tJ1e addition or subtraction of sections of track.
(CMP-18)
Listed. Equ·ipment, material~, or services included in a list
puhli~herl by an organization that is acceptable to the authority
having jurisd.iction a nd concerned with evaluation of products
or services, that ma intains periodic inspection ofp1-oduction of
listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of services,
and whose listing states that e ithe ,- Lhe equipment, material, or
se1-vice meets appropriate d esignated standards or has been
tested and found suitable for a specified purpose. (GMP-1)
Informational NOLe: The means for ide ntifying lis1ed equipmem
may vary for each organization con cerned with product evalua-
Lion , some ofwh·ich rlo nOL recognize equipment as lisLed unless
iL is also labeled. Use of Lhe sysLem employed by Lhe Jjsting
organizal.ion a llows Lhe aL1Lhoriiy hal'ingjurisdictio n to idenLify a
lis1ed product.
Live Parts. Energized conductive components. (CMP-J)
Location, Damp. Locations protected from weather and not:
subject to satLu·ation with water or othe1· liquids but subject to
moderate degrees of moisture. (CMP-1)
Informational No Le: Examples or such local.ions inc lude partially
protecLecl locations under canopies. marCJuees. roofed o pen
porches, and like locations, and imerior focal.ions subjen LO
moder,1te degrees or moisture, SLJch as some basements, some
barns, and some colcl-s1orage 1varehouses.
Location, Dry. A location not normally subject to dampness o r
wetness. A location classified as dry may be temporarily subject
to darnpnes$ or werness, as in the case of a building 1111der
constrnction. (CMP-1 )
Location, Wet. Installations underground or in concrete slabs
or masonry in di.re ct con tact with tJ1e earth; in locations subject
to saturation with water or other liquids, such as vehicle wa~h-
ing :u-eas; and in w1protected loc.a.tions exposed to weather.
(CMP-1)
Lum.ina.ire. A comp lete lighting unit consisting of a light
sow-ce such as a lamp or lamps, together with the parLs
70-38
designed to position tJ1e light source and connect it to the
power supply. It may also include parts to protect the light
source 01- t;he balla~t or to disu-ilmte the light. A lampholder
itself is notaluminaire. (GMP-18)
Messenger or Messenger Wire . A wire that is run along with o r
integral with a cable or conductor to provide mechanical
support for d1e cable or conductor. (GMP-6)
Motor Control Center. An assembly of o ne or more enclosed
sections having a common power btt~ and principally contain-
ing motor conu-ol units. (CMP-11)
MultioutJeLAssembly. A type of surface, flush, or freestanding
raceway designed to hold c.on_ductors and receptacles, a~sem-
bled in the field or at the factory. (GMP-18)
Neutral Conductor. The conductor connected to the n eLLD·al
point of a system that is intended to carry current w1der
normal conditions. (CMP-5)
Neutral Point. The common point on a wye-connection in a
polypha~e system or midpoint on a single-phase, 3-wire system,
or midpoint of a single-phase port.ion of a 3-phase delt.;, system,
or a midpoint of a 3-wire, direct-current system. (CMP-5)
lnfomrnLional Nore: At the ne oLral poinL of the sysLem, Lhe
vectorial sum of the no,ninal volta.ges from all other phases
within Lhe system Lhat ul.ilize the neurral. with respecL Lo the
neut.ml point, is zero poLenLial.
Nonautomatic. Requiring human intervention to perform a
function. (CMP-l )
Nonlinear Load. A load where tJ1e wave shape of the steady-
state current does not follow the wave shape of the a pplied volt-
age. (CMP-1)
lnformationaJ Note: 'Electronic equipment, eleCLronic/ e lectric-
clischarge liglning, :cidjustable-speed drive systems, and similar
equipmenLmay be nonlinear loarls.
Outlet. A point on the wiring system at which current is taken
to supply utilization equipment. (CMP-1)
Outline Lighting. An arrangement of incandescent la mps,
electric-discharge lighting, o r other elecu-ically powered light
sources to o utline or call attention co certain featw·es s uch as
the shape of a building or the dee.oration of a window.
(CMP-18)
Overcurrent. Any current in excess of the rated current of
equipment or the ampac.ity of a conductor. l t may result from
overload , short circuit, or ground fault. (CMP-L0)
lnJornrnLiona l NOLe: A currenL in excess of rating may be accom-
modated by certa.in equipme nt and conductors for a given set of
conditions. The refore, the rules lor overcurre n t protecrjon are
specific for particular situations.
Overcurrent Protective Device, Branch-Circuit, A device capa-
ble of providing protect.ion for service, feeder, a nd branch
circuit5 and equipment over the full range of overcurrent5
between its rated nu-rent and iL~ interrupting ratin g. Such cle,.,i-
ces are provided with interrupting ratings appropriate for the
intended u se hut no less tJ,an 5000 amperes. (CMP-10)
Overcurrent Protective Device, Supplementary. A device inten-
ded to provide limited overc1u-rent protection for specific
applications and utilization equipment such as lum.ina.ires and
app.liances. This limited protection is in addition to the protec-
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020EdiLion
 AITTICU: 100 -
tion provided in the required branch circuit by the branch-
circuit overcurrent protective device. (C'v!P-10)
Overload. Operation of equipment in excess of normal , full-
load rati.ng, or of a conductor in excess of it~ a mpacity that,
when it persists for a sufficient length of time, would cause
damage or dangerous overheating. A fau lt, such as a short
circuit or ground fau lt, is not an overload. (CMP-10)
Panelboard. A single panel or group of panel un.its designed
for assembly in the form ofa single panel, includ.ing buses and
automatic overcurrent devices, and equipped wit.h or wid1out
switches for the conU'ol of light, heat, or power circuits;
designed to be placed in a cabinet or c utout box placed in or
against a wall, partition, or o ther support; and accessible only
from d1e front. (CMP-9)
Photovoltaic (PV) System. The total components, cir·cuits, and
equipment up to and including tJ1e PV system clisconnecting
means tlial, in combination, convert so lar energy into e lectric
energy. (CMP-4)
Pier. A su-ucture extending over d1e water a nd supported on a
fixed foundation (fixed pier), or on flotation (floating pier),
diat provides access ro d1e water. r303:3.3. I 7] (CMP-7)
Pier, Fixed. Pier co11SU-ttcted on a permanent. fixed fow1da-
tion, such as on piles, that permanently establishes the eJeva-
tion of the strucltlre deck 1vitll respect lo land. f3 03:3.3.1 7.2 l
(CMP-7)
Pier, Floating. Pier designed with inherent no tation capability
that allows th e struct:1.11·e to float on the water su rface and rise
and faU with W,lter level changes. [303:3.3.17.3] (CMP-7)
P]enum. A compartment or chamber to which one or more air
d u cts are connected and that forms part of the air disu·ibution
system. (CMP-3)
Power Outle t. An enclosed assembly that may include recepta-
cles, circuit breakers, fuseholde1·s, fused switches, buses, and
watt-ho ur merer mounting means; intended to supply and
control power to mobile homes, recreational vehicles, park
trailers, or boats or to serve as a means for disti·ibuting power
required to operate mobile or temporarily installed eqttipment.
(CMP-7)
Powe r Production Equipment. Electi-ical generating equip-
ment supplied hy a ny source other tJ1a.11 a utility servi.ce, up to
the source system disconnecting means. (CMP-4)
ln fonnational No Le: Examples of power production equipmenL
include such jLems as generaLors, solar phomvoltaic systems, and
fue l cell sysLems.
Power-Limited Tray Cable (PLTC). A factory assembly of two
or more insulated conductors rated at 300 volts, with or with-
out associated bare 01· insulated equipment grotu1.din.g conduc-
tors, under a nonmetallic j acket. (CMP-3)
Premises Wiring (System). l nterior and exterio r 1viring, inch.td-
ing powe1~ lighting, control, and signal circu.it wiring together
wid1 all their associated hardware, fittingi;, and wiring devices,
both permanently and temporarily installed. Thi~ includes
(a) wil"ing from the service point or powet· source to die outlet~
or (h) wii-ing from and including the power source to the
outlets where there is no service point.
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
DEFINITIONS CHAPTER !
Such wiri ng does not include wiring intern al to applia nces,
lurninaires, motors, controllers, motor control centers, and
similarequipmenl. (CMP-1)
l n.forrn<1rional Note: Power source.;, include, but are not limited
LO, imerconnected o r srand-alone hatLeries, solar phowvoltaic
systems, oLher dis1ributefl generation systems, or generacors.
Prime Mover. The machine diat supplies die mechanical
horsepower to a gen erator. (C...MP-13)
Qualified Person. One who ha.5 ski lls and knowledge rel:;1ted to
~he construction and oper-ation of tJ1e elecu-ical equipment and
installations a nd ha5 received safety training to recognize and
avoid tJ1e hazards involved. (CMP-1)
I nfrurna1fonal Note: Refer to NJ•PA 70£'.!()18, S1a11d(m/Jhr Elerlri-
cal Srt{f.ly in 111,, Worhpia,,,, for electrical safety u-aining require-
n1ents.
Raceway. An enclosed channel designed expressly fo r holding
wit-es, cables, or busbars, with additional functions as pern1.itted
in thi~ Cod6. (CMP-8)
Informational Note: A raceway is identified within specifi c ani-
cle rlefinitions .
Raceway, Communications. An enclosed chan nel of nonmetal-
lic mate1ials designed expressly for holding communications
wires and cables; optical fiber cables; data cables associated
1vith i.n formati.on technology and communications equipment;
Class 2, Qass 3, and Type PLTC cables; a nd power-litUited fire
a larm cables in plenum, rise1~ and general-purpose applica-
tions. (CMP0 J 6)
Rainproof. Constructed, protected, or treated so as to prevent
rain from in Lerfering witJ1 the su ccessful operation of the appa-
ratus under specified test conditioJ1s. (CMP-1)
Raintight. Consu·ucted or protected so d1ar exposw·e to a beat-
ing rain will not result in the entrance of water tmder specified
test conditions. (CMP-1)
Receptacle. A contact device installed at die outlet for the
connection of an attachment plug, or for the d irect connection
of electi·ical 1Jti.lization equipment designed to mate with die
corresponding contact device. A single recept:acle is a single
contact device with no od1er contact device on the same yoke
o r su-ap. A multiple receptacle is two or more contact devices
on the same yoke or su·ap. (CMP-18)
Informational No1e: A duplex receptacle is an example of a
multiple r eceptacle that has rwo receptacles on the same yoke 0 1·
s1rap.
Receptacle Outle t. An outlet where one or more receptacles
are i11Stalled. (CMP-18)
Reconditioned. Electromechanical systems, equipment, appa-
ratus, 01· components d1at are restored to operating conditio ns.
This process differs from normal servicing of equipment that
remains within a facility, or replacement of listed equipment on
a one-to-one basis. (CMP-10)
rnformationa l Note: The term reco11dili01ied is frequendy reterred
Lo as relntill, ntf'ud1ishnl, or w1t1m.11fm:tured.
Remote-Control Circuit. Ail)' electrical circuit U1at controls any
other circuit through a rela)' or an eqttivalem device. (CMP-3)
70-39
CHAPTER l ARTICLE 100- DEFINITIONS
Retrofit Kit. A gen eral term for a complete s uha~sembly of
part~ and devices for field conversion of utilization eq uipment.
(CMP-18)
Sealable Equipment. Equipment enclosed in a case or cabinet
tJ1at is prnvided with a m eans of sealing or locking so that live
parts cannot be m ade accessible without opening the e nclo-
sure. (CMP-1)
Informational Nme: The equipment may or may not be opera-
ble wiL110L1t opening th e enclosure.
Separately Derived System. An electrical source, other than a
service, havi ng no d irect connection. (s) to circLtit conductors of
any other e lectrical source other tha n those establ ished by
grounding and bonding connections. (CMP-5)
Service. The conductors and equipment con necti ng the sen'-
ing utility to the wiring system of the p1·emises ser ved.
(CMP-10)
Service Cable. Service conductors made up in the forn1 of a
cable. (CMP-10)
Service Conductors. The cond uctors from the service point to
the service di,~con necting means. (CMP-10)
Service Conductors, Overhead. The overhead conductors
between the service point a nd the first point ol' connection to
the service-entrance conductm-s at the building o r othe r struc-
ture. (CMP-10)
Service Conductors, Underground. The underground conduc,.
tors between the service point and the first point of connectio n
to the service-entrance conductors in a terminal box, meter, or
other enclo~ure, inside or outside the buildi11g wall. (CMP-10)
Informational Note: Where there is no terrninaJ box, meter, or
oLher enclosure, che poini of connecLion i$ considered to be I.he
point of entrance of the service condltctors imo the building.
Service Drop. T he overhead conductors between the serving
utility and U1e service point (CMP-10)
Service-Entrance Conductors, Overhead System. The service
conductors b etween the termina ls of the service equipment
and a point usually o u tside the building, clear of building walls,
where j oined by tap or splice to U1e service drop or overhead
service conductors. (CMP-10)
Service-Enttance Conductors, Underground System. The serv-
ice conductors between the terminals of the ser vice equipme nt
and the point of connection to the sen~ce lateral or under-
ground ser vice conductors. (CMP- 10)
lnformacional Note: Where service equipment is locmed out~ide
the building walls, there may be no -erv ice-entrance conductors
or chey may he entirely ouLside che building.
Service Equipment. The necessary equipme nt, consisting of a
ci rcuit breaker(s) or switch(es) and fuse(s) and their accesso-
ries, connected to the serving utility and intended to constitute
the ma in control a nd clisconnect of the se1ving utility:
(CMP-10)
Service Lateral. The unde rground conducto rs beLween th e
utility elecn-ic su pply system and the service point. (CMP-:10)
Service Point. The point of connection between the fac ili ties
of the sensing utility and tl1e premises wiring. (CMP-10)
70-40
l nformaLiona l Note: TI1e service poim can be descl'ibei;I as the
point of dernarcaLion becween whe,·e che serving utility e ncl!; and
the premises wiring begins. The serving mili ty generally speci fies
the location of' the service point based o n Lhe conditions of serv-
ice.
Short-Circuit Current Rating. The pros pective w mmetrical
fault cutTen t a t a nominal voltage to which an apparatus or
system is able to be connected without sustaining damage
exceecling defined acceptance criteria. (CMP-10)
Show Window. Any window, including windows above doors,
used or designed to be med for the display of goods or advertis-
ing mate1-ial, whe U'ler it is fully or partly e nclosed or e ntirely
open at U1e rear and wheU1er o r· not it has a platform rai~ed
higher than the st1-eet floor level. (CMl'-2)
Signaling Circuit. Any electrical c ircuit that ene,-gizes sig na ling
equipm ent. (CMP-3)
Single-Pole Separable Com1ector. A device that is installed at
the e nds of portable, fl exible, si ngle-conductor cable tha t is
LL~ed to establish conneCLion or d isconnection b etween two
cables or one cable and a single-pole, panel-mounted separable
connector. (CMP-18)
Special Permission. The written consent of th e a uthority
havingjw-isdiction. (CMP- L)
Stand-Alone System. A system that i.~ capable of supplying
power independent of an electric power production and distr:i-
bution network. ( CM P-4)
Structure. T hat which is built or constructed, other than
equipm ent. (CMP-1)
Surge Arrester. A p rotective device for limiting su rge voltages
by di,~chargi ng or bypassing sm·ge cunent; it also prevent~
continu ed flow of fo llow current while r emaining capable of
repeating these .func tions. (CMP-10)
Surge-Protective Device (SPD) . A protective device for limiting
trarL~ient voltages by diverting o r limiting surge curre nt; it also
pi-event~ continued flow of follow current while remaining
capable of repeati ng these functio ns and is desig nated a.~
follows:
Type 1: Perman enLl)' connected SPDs intended for installa-
tion between the secondary of the se rvi ce u-ansformer and the
line side oJ the service cli~connect overcurrent device.
T)'Pe 2: PennanenUy conn ected SP Ds intended for installa-
tio n o n the load side of rhe service disconnect overcurre n t
device, including SPDs located at the branch panel.
Type 3: Poin t of utilization SPDs.
Type 4: Compone nt SPDs, including discrete components, as
well as assemblies. (CMP-10)
lnfr1m1ationa l Nore: For farther information on Type 1, Type 2,
Type 3, and Type 4 SPDs, see UL 1449, Slllndard.for S11rge Pmtci:-
ti.Vl! Devicl!S.
Switch, Bypass Isolation. A manual, nonautomatic, or a11to-
matic operated device used in cortjunction with a transfer
switch to provide a means of directly connecting load tonduc-
tors to a power soLtrce and of d isconnecting tl1e transler switch.
(CMP-13)
Switch, General-Use. A switch inte nded for use in general
disuibution and branch circuits. It is rated in amperes, a nd it is
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 AITT'ICLE 100-DEFINITlONS
capable of interrupting its rated c urrent at its rated voltage.
(CMP-9)
Switch, General-Use Snap. A form of general-use switch
constructed so that it can be instaJled in device boxes or on box
cover·s, or od1erwise used in c01tjun ction with wiring systems
recognized by this Code. (CMP-9)
Switch, Isolating. A switch in tended for isolating an electrical
circuit from the source of power. It has no interrupting rating,
and itis intended to be operated only after tJ1e circuit ha~ been
opened by some od1er means. (CMP-9)
Switch, Motor-Circuit. A switch rated in horsepowe r that is
capable of intermpting tJ1e maximLtm opernting overload
current of a motor of the same horsepower rati ng a~ the switch
at the rnted voltage. (CMP-L1)
Switch, Transfer. An automatic or nonautomatic device for
transferring one or more load conductor con nec tions from
one power source to another. (CM P-13)
Switchboard. A Large single panel, frame, or assembly of panels
on which are mounted on the face, back, or both, switches,
overcurrem aml othe.r protective d evices, buses, and usually
instrument~. These a~semblies are generally accessible from the
rear as well as from dle front and a re not intended to be
installed in cabinets. (CMP-9)
Switchgear. An assembly completely e nclosed on a ll sides and
top with sheet metal (except for ventilating openings ru1d
inspection windows) and containing prima.r)' power circuit
switch ing, interrupting devices, or both, with bmes and
conuections. T he assembly may include control and auxiliary
devices. Access to the intetior of tJ1e enclosure is provided by
doors, removable covers, o r both. (CMP-9)
lnfortnational Note: AU switchgear subject LO NEC requiremenu;
is metal enc::losed. Switchgear rared below 1000 V or l~ss may he
ide nLitied as "lmv-vohage pmver circuit breaker swiLcl1!\"ea1:"
Switchgear rated over LOO() V may he identified as "metal-
enclosed switchgear" or "meLal-clad switchgea1:'' Switchgear is
av~1jJable in non- arc-resisrant or an;:-resistnnL C(u1su·uc6ons.
Thermal Protector (as applied to molors). A protective device
for assembly a5 an integral part of a motor or motor-
compressor that, when properly applied, protects dle motor
against dangerous overheating due t.o overload and failure to
stan. (CMP-Ll )
Informational Note: The thermal protector may consist of one
o r more sen.sing elemenlS imegral with the motor or motor-
com press or and an exrernal comrol device.
Thermally Prolected (as applied to motors). A motor o r
motor-compressor tlrnt is provided with a tl1ermal protector.
(CMP-11)
Ungrounded. Not connected ro grotmd or to a conductive
body dlat extends tl1e ground connection. (CMP-5)
Uninterruptible Power Supply. A power supply tL5ed to provide
a lternating ctuTent powe1· to a load for some pe1·iod of ttme in
tl1e event of a power failure. (CMP-13)
Informational Note: In addition, it may provide a more constant
voltage and frequency s,1pply to the load, reducing the elfecLS of
voltage and frc<Juenc y variations.
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL £LllCTRICAL CODE
CHAPTER!
Utilization Equipment. Equipment tl1at utilizes elecu·ic e nergy
for electronic, elecu·omechanical, chemical , heating, Lighting,
01· simil,u· pmposes. (CMP-1)
Voltage (of a circuit). The greatest root-meai1-sqt1are (nns)
(effective) difference of potential betwee n any two conductors
of tl1e circuit concerned. (CMP-1)
lnfrmnational Note: Some systems, such as :>-phase 4-wire,
single-phase g.wire, and g.wire direct current, may have vrn·ious
circuiL~ ofv.-1rious vo ltages.
Voltage, Nominal. A nominaJ value assigned to a circuiL or
system for tl1e pLtrpose of conveniently desig nating its voltage
cla5s (e.g.. 120/ 240 volts. 480¥/ 277 volts, 600 volts) . (CM P-])
ln'lormarlonal Note No. 1: TI,e actual voltage a1 which a circu iL
opera1es can v,u-y from the nominal within a range that permit$
smisfactory operation of equipment.
Informational Nole No. 2: See ANSI C84.l-201I. Vnl/flr;t Haling.\
for Eie1;1rir Power Systems a11d Eqttifnnent (60 1-li).
Informatio nal Note No. :I: Certain bar.tery uni LS may be con sid-
ered Lo be rated a1 nominal 48 vol IS de, bl.IL may have a chai:ging
tlom voltage up to 58 volts. In de applications. 60 vohs is used t0
cover Lhe entire range oHlnat voltages.
Voltage to Ground. For grounded circuits, the voltage bel\veen
the given conductor and tlrnt point or conductor of the c ircuit
tJ1at is grounded; for ungrounded c ircuits, the greatest voltage
between the given conductor and a ny other conductor of dle
circuit. (C..MP-] )
Watertight. Constructed so that moisture will not en ter the
enclosw·e under specified test condition,,. (CMP-1 )
Wead1e rproof. Constructed or protected so that exposLLre to
the weather will not interfere witl1 successfiil operation.
(CMP-1)
Informational Nme: Rainproof", rainl.ight, or watertight equip-
mem can l\.tllill the requirements for weatherproof where vary-
ing weather conditions 01J1er than wemess, such as snow. ice,
dust, or r.emperawre exr.rernes, are nola factor.
Part II. Over 1000 Volts, Nominal
Electronically Actuated Fuse. An overcLUTent protective device
that generally consists of a control module that provides
current sensing, electronically derived time-curren t character-
istic$, e nergy to initiate u·i pping, and a n inLerrupting module
that interrupts current when an overcurrent occurs. Electroni-
cally actuated fuses may or may not operate in a current-
limiting fa5hion , dependi.ng o n the type of control se lected.
(CMP-10)
Fuse. An overcurrent protective device with a circuit-opening
fusible part dlat. is heated a nd severed by tl1e passage of over-
c w-re n t through it. (CMP-10)
lnforrnat.ional Note: A fuse comprises all 1:he pans that form a
unit capable of performing Lhe presc ribed functions. l Lm,1y or
may not be the complete device neces.sary LO connect ir into an
electrical circuiL
Con/rolled Vtmtecl Power h.1sf. A !i.tse witl1 provi.~ion for control-
ling discharge circuit interruption $uch that no solid matedal
may be exhausted into th e surrounding atmosphere.
Informational No1e: The ti.,se is designed so chat discharged
gases ,,~II noL ignire or damage insulation in the path or 1.he
70-41
CHAPTER I ARTICLE 100-DEFINlTIONS
discharge or propagate a flashover LO or berween grounded
members or conducl.io n membe rs in Lhe palh of d1e discharge
whe re che distance be1ween the vcnL -and such insulaLion or
tonducl.ion members conforms to manufacturer's recommenda--
tions.
J,,,.1n1lsion.Fuse Unit (E,;pulsion Fusr). A vented fuse unit in which
the expulsion effect of gases produced by the arc and lining of
the foseholde1~ either alone or aided by a spl'ing, extinguishes
the arc.
Nonvented Power P1tse. A fuse without i11tentional provision for
the escape of arc gases, liquids, or solid particles to the atmos-
phere during circuit interruption.
Power Puse Unit. A vented, nonvented, or con u·olled vented fuse
unit 'in whicl1 the ar·c is extinguished by being drawn through
solid material, granular material, or liquid, eithe1· alone or
a ided by a spring.
Vented Power Fuse. A fu5e with provision for die escape of arc
gases, liquids, or solid paxticles LO the surrounding am1osphere
during circuit interruption.
Multiple Fuse. An assembly of Lwo or more single-pole fuses .
(CMP-10)
Substation. An assemblage of e<]uipment (e.g., switches, inter-
n.1pting devices, circuit breake1·s, buses, and transforme1·s)
through which electric energy is passed for the pw-pose of
distribution, switching, or modifying its characteristics.
(CMP-9)
Switching Device. A device designed to close, open, or both ,
one or more elecu-ical circuits. (C'MP-l )
Cirmit Breake,: A switching de1Tice capable of making, carrying,
and interrupting c urrents under normal circui t conditions, and
also of making, carrying for a specified time, and interrupting
current~ under specified abnormal c ircuit conditions, such as
th ose of short c ircuit.
Ciilont. An assembly of a fuse support wid1 e idler a fuseholder,
f·use carrie1~ or disconnec ting blade. The fuseholder or fLL5e
carrier may include a conducting elemem (fuse link) or may
act as the disconnecting blade by the incl1.L5ion of a non fusible
member.
Discrmnecting Means. A device, group of devices, or 01.her means
whereby the conductors of a cir·cuit can be disconnected from
thei1· source of supply.
Disconnecting (or isolating) SwiU:h (Di.sconnector, Isolator). A
mechanical switching device used for isolating a circuit or
equipment from a sou1·ce of powe r.
lntern.t/1/er Switch. A switch capable o-f making, carrying, and
inlerrupting specified current.5.
Oil Cit/out (Oil-Filled Culo1.1t). A cutout in wh ich all or part of th e
fuse support a nd itq fuse li.nk. or d isconnecting blade is moun-
ted in o il with complete immersion of the contacts and the fusi-
ble portion of the conduning e le mem (fLt5e link) so that arc
intern.1ption by severing of the fuse link or by opening of the
contacu wi ll occur under oil.
Oil Switrh. A swilch having contacts that operate unde1· o il (or
askarel or other suitable liquid).
Regulator Bypass Switch. A specific device 01· combination of
devices des.igned to bypa~s a regulator.
70-42
Part m. Hazardous (Classified} Locations (CMP-14).
Aircraft Painting Hangar. An aircraft hangar co11.~tructed fo1·
d1e express purpose of spray/ coating/ dipping applications and
provided widi dedicated ventilation supply and exhaust.
Associated Apparalus. Apparatus in which the circuits are nol
necessarily intrinsically safe themselves but that affects the
energy in the intrinsically safe circuit~ and is relied on to main-
tai n intr.insic safety. Such app::u-at1.ts is on_e of the following:
(l) Electrical apparatus that has an a lternative type of protec-
tio n for use in the appropriate hazardous (classified)
location
(2) Electrical apparatus not so protected that shall not be
used within a hazardous (classified) location
lnformatjonal No1.e No. 1: AssociaLed apparatus has idemified
inu:insically safe connection.5 for inuins.icaJly safe apparatus and
also may h;we connections for nnnintrinsically sale apparatus.
lnfom1a1.ional Nme No. 2: An example of associated apparatus is
an in1rinsic safety barrier, which is a network designed to limi1
the energy (vohage and curre111) available r.o the protected
cirnLil in Lhe hazardous (classitied) locm.ion, w1der specifiecl
fuul1 condi1Jo11s.
Associated Nonincendive Field Wiring Apparatus. Apparnms
in which the circuits are not necessarily nonincendive them-
selves but that affect the energy in nonincendive field wiring
circuit~ and are re lied upon to maintain noni.ncendive e nergy
leveL5. Such apparal1.t5 are one of die following:
(] ) Electrical apparatus that has an a lternative type of protec-
tio n for use in the appropriate hazardous (cl,1.ssified)
location
(2) Electrical apparatus not so pr<>tected dial shall not be
used in a hazardous (classified) location
lnfom,ational Note: Associa1.ed nonincendive field wiring appa·
ra1 us has designated associated nonincendive fie ld wiring appa-
rallls connecLions for nonincendive fi e ld wiring apparatus and
may also have connections for OLher e lectrical apparanis.
Combustible Dust. Dust particles that are 500 microns or
smaller (i.e., material passi.ng a U.S. No. 35 Standard Sieve as
defined in ASTM Ell-2015, Standard Specification for WoVfm Wire
Test Sieve Cloth 1.ind Tesi Sieves) , and preseut a fire or explosion
ha7..ard when dispersed and ignited in air.
ln fom1aLional Nore: See ASTM EI22!:>-2012a. Sllmdard Test
Method for E~plosil>ility qf Dust (,"[111uLs, OI' ISO 6184-1, Explosion
/1ro/./!cli01, sysllims - Port I : Di'/em,inalicm of f!Xf,losio1r iudiUIS of
combustible dust, in air. for procedures for deLermining the explo-
sibility of dusLS.
Combustible Gas Detection System. A protection technique
utilizing stationary gas detectors in indLL~u·ial establishments.
Control Drawing. A drawing or od1e1· document prnvided by
the manufacturer of the inu·insically safe or associated appara-
tus, or o f the noni.ncendive field wiring apparatus or associated
nonincendive field wiring apparatus, that details 1.he allowed
intel'Connections bet.ween the inu·insically safe and associated
apparan1s or between the nonincenclive field wiring apparatus
or a~sociated nonincendive fie ld wiring a pparatus.
Cord Connector. A fitting intended to term inale a cord to a
box or simila1· device and reduce the strain at points of term.i-
nation and may include an explosionproof. a dust-
igni1.ionproof, or a Ila me proof seal.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE IO0 -
Different Intrinsically Safe Circuits. Inrrinsically safe circ uiL~ in
which the possible imerconnections have not been evaluated
a nd identified as intrinsically safe.
Dust-Ignitionproof. Equipme nt enclosed i.n a manner that
excludes d1_1sts a nd does no t permit arcs, sparks, or heat other-
wise generated or liberated inside of the enclosure Lo cause
ignition of exterior accumulations or atmqsphe ric suspensio ns
oh1 specified dust on or in the vicinity of t he enclosw-e.
Informational Note No. 1 : Fo r furth e r information on dusl-
ignirionproof e nclosm es, see ANSI/ UL 120'.>-201 5, Exf1losion-
Proof" n,•11d Duslrlff11ilion ..Pmof Ei,,;Jrica/ Eq11i/mie11.t foi H azarr/011.s
(Classified) Lowtions.
Jn formational Nore No. 2: Dust-igniLionprnof e ,1closures are
sometimes additionally marked Type 9 pe r NEt\llA 250-2014,
E11c/osuresfar E/er1trfral Equ ipmnl.l.
Dusttight. EnclosLtres consu·ucted so that dust will not enter
under specified lest conditions.
lnfom1ational Nole No. I: For furth e r informa tion, see
ANSI/ UL 121201-2017, Noninrendit1e Ell!Clricat Eqttl/nnm1 for Ufe
in Closs I mu/ II, D ivision 2 and (,"lass ill, D ivision.< I mill 2 H azc,rd-
m,s (Classified) Local ions.
lnl'ormati<mal Note No . .2: Enclosure Types 3, 3X, 3S, 3SX, 4,
4X, 5, 6. 6P. 12, 121<, and 13, per N EMA :!W-20.14., Er11:losur'"'' .fin·
lilectrical Equipment a nd ANSI/UL 50£-2015, E11r/Qswr.1 far Eleclri-
tal .t:quipment, Envim,1r11m1r!I Ccmsidemtim,s, are conside red dust-
tighL
Electrical Resistance Trace Heating "60079-30-l ''. Type of
pro tection for the purpose of producing heat on the principle
of e lectrical resL5tance a nd typically composed of one or mo re
metallic conductors and/ or an elecu-ically conductive m.aterial,
suitably electrically insulated and protected.
Informational Note: See ANSI/ UL 600?!)-30-1-2017. l:.'.>:plosiv;
At1110Jt1!11:res - Pm·/ 3(J.l: Elertriml R esislance Trace Healing -
General rmd Testing Requiirwwnl<.
Encapsulation "m". Type of protection where e lec □·i cal p,u-ts
tha t cou ld ign ite a n explosive atmosphere by either sparking· or
heating are e nclosed in a compotmd in such a way that d1is
explosive atmosphe re cannol be ignited.
Informational Nole: See ANSI/U L i\0079- 18--2015. Ex/!losive
atuwspheres - Pn,rl 18: Eq11i/mw11protec1;on IJ)• enCO;psulalion "m".
Explosionproof Equipment. Equipment endosed u1 a case d1at
is capable of withstanding an explosio n of a specifie d gas 01·
vapor that may occur within it and of preve nting d1e ign ition of
a specified gas or vapor surrounding die enclosure by sparks,
flashes, or explosion of the gas 01- vapor wid1in, and that oper-
ates at such an exten1al temperature that a surrounding flam-
mable a □nosphere wi ll not be ignited th ereby: (CMP-14)
Informational Note Nu. 1, For further informaLion, see ANSI/
UL 120'.~2()1!",. t:x/ilusio,1-Proof and Dtt.1l-lg11ition-Pmof El✓:tt1fral
E,r,,ifmwntfor UsP i n Haz.1Lrduus (Classifiul) L ocation\.
Infonnadonal Note No. 2: Explosionproof enclosures are som e-
Limes addi1fonally markec! Type? per NEMA 250-2014, Et,dosums
for EiJJLlriwl Equipm,ml
Flameproof "d". Type of protection where the e nclosure will
withstand an internal explosion of a fl ammable mixture d1a l
ha~ p enetrated into the interior, wid1out suffering damage and
without causing ignition, through anyjoints or structural open-
ings in the enclosure of an external explosive ga~ a unosphe1·e
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL E LECTRICAL CODE
DEFlNrTJONS CHAPTER I
consisting of o ne o r more of d1e gases or vapors for which it is
desig ned.
Informationa l Note: See ANSl/UL 60079-1-20 15, lix/>losive Atnws-
J>hrres-Par/ I , Equip111r11tPmtn:1i01, l>y i'1mneproo(Endosw~s ·rt •.
Hermetically Sealed. Equipment sealed against the en trance
of an external atmosphere where the se<1l is made byfmion, for
example, solde ring, b razing, welding, or the fusio n of glass to
metal.
Informational Note: Fo r forLher in formation, see ANSI/
ISA- 12. 12.01-2013, Nonincendive lilerlrirnl Equip 11umt for Us, h,
Class I and ll, D ivision 2, and Clr1ss Ill, Divisionr 1 rmd 2 H rtz.rmio11~
(Classifml) Lotations.
Increased Safety "e". Type of protection applied to elecn-ical
equipme n t that does not produce arcs or sparks in normal serv-
ice a nd under specified abnormal conditions, in which addi-
tional 1Tteasures are applied so as to give increased senu-ity
against the possibility of excessi,7 e temperatures and of the
occ w-rence of arcs and sparks.
Informational Note: See ANSI/UL 60079°i- 2()17, E.-,:fllOSiUP.
Atmospheres- Parl 7: Eq11i/>menl, Prolei:l;on IJ)• lnr,rer1.,ed Safely "e".
Inherently Safe Optical Radiation "op is". Type of protection
to min imize the risk of ignitio n in explosive atmospheres from
optical radiation where vi~ible o r in frared radiation is inca pa-
ble of producing sufficient ene1·gy unde1· normal or specifi ed
fault cond itions to ig ni te a specific explosive a tmosphere.
l nformaLional Note: See ANSI/U L 60079-28-20 17, E.,;/ilosiVII
Atmospherns - Part 28: Pmteclion of 11'quipnumt and 1hinsmission
,\)'sl.t.ms U1ing Opticitl Rruliatim,.
Intrinsic Safe ty "i''. Type of proteclio n where a ll)' spark or
th ermal effect is incapable of causing ignitio n of a mi'Xture of
flammable 0 1· combustible material in air unde1- prescribed test
conditions.
l nformariona l Note: See UL !)13-201.5, lntriusicalty Srife Appamluo
an cl Associated A}1/10:mtns .for Use h1 Cla.1.1 I, fJ, and III, Division 1
Hriumlott.S (Classified) L ocotim1s; and ANSI/ UL 6007!J- l l-2013,
Exjilnsive Atm,,1phereJ - Pnrl JI: Equipmm1 protarliM, lry intrinsi,
safely "i ".
Intrinsically Safe Apparatus. Apparatus in which all the c ircuits
are inu·insicalJy safe.
Intrinsically Safe Circuit. A circuit in which any spark o r the1--
rnal effect is incapable of causing ignition of a mixture of flam-
ma ble or comhLL5tible material in a ir tmder prescribed Lest
conditions.
lnfonnational Note: TesL condil ions are described in ANSI/
UL HJ 3-20 I 3, Standard for Saft (\', lnl,insically Safe Af1(1aralt1S aud
A<sociattld ApfJamltlS far Us; in Class I , II, and Ill, D iv~rion 1,
I-lr1zardo11s (C/11ssijii:rl,) Locations.
Intrinsically Safe System. An assembly of it1terco1rnecLed
intrinsically safe apparatus, associated apparatus, and u1tercon-
11ec ting cables, in that Lhose part~ of the system that may be
used in hazardo us (classifi ed ) locations a1·e u1u·insically safe
c ircuit~.
Informatio nal Note: An inu-insically sale system may include
more than o ne inLrinsically safe ci rcuiL.
Limited Finlc;hing Workstation. An apparatus that is capable of
confining d1e vapors, mist~. residues, d LL~ts, 01- deposiL~ that a re
generated by a spray applicatio n process but does not meet Lh e
70-43
CHAPTER I ARTICLE 100-DEFINlTIONS
requirements of a spray booth or spray room , ~ herein
defined. f33:3.3.18.l]
Informational Nole: See Section 14.'.{ of NFPA 33, !:,~fmt/mrl Jin·
Spray Appiicalion ll.<il,g 1'Y{1111.11111bfP or Co-mlnirlih!;, JWa,t,,.ria/s, fo r limi-
ted lini$hing worksl,ltions.
Liquid Immersion "o". Type of protection where e lectrical
equipmenL is immersed in a protective liquid in such a way that
an explosive atmosphere that may be above tl1e liquid or
out5ide the enclosure catrno t b e ignited.
Informational Note: See ANSI/ UL fi007V-6-2lH 6, ExplvsiveAt111os-
Part 6: Equipmrnt prolectio" /})' liq1tid immHsion "o ".
f1lwres -
Major Repair Garage. A building or portions of a bldlding
whe re major repairs, such as engine overhauls, painting, body
a nd fender work, and repairs thaL requi1·e draining of Lhe
motor vehicle fuel tank are performed o n motor vehicles,
including associa ted floor space used for offices, parking, or
showrooms. l"30A:3.3.l2.1l
Membrane Enclosure. A temporary e nclosure used fo r th e
spraying of workpieces that cannot be moved into a spray
booth where open spraying is not practical due to the proxim-
ity to other operations, finish quality, or concerns such as the
collecrion of overspray.
lnformational No te: See Chapler 18 of Nf PA 33-201 6, Slandard
for S/Jmy Apfilil:ation U.1ing Flam·11,ab{1• ur Combusti/ilP Moteriat,, fo r
in formation on the constructio n anct use of membrane enclo-
sures.
Minor Repair Garage. A building or portions of a bttilding
used fo1· lub1·ication , i1L~pectio11, and mu1o r automotive mainte-
n,rnce work, such as engine tune-ups, replacerne:nt bf parts,
flttid changes (e.g., o il, antifreeze, transmission fluid, brake
fluid, aiL conditio11ing refrigerants) , bra ke system repairs, tire
0
rotation, a nd similar 1-outine maintenance work, including
associated floor space used for offices, parking, or showrooms.
[30A:3.3. l 2.21
Mobile Equipment. Equipment with electrica l component~
suitable to be moved only with mechanical a ids 01· is provided
with wheels for movement by per~on (s) or powered devices.
Motor Fuel Dispensing Facility. That portion of a property
wh ere motor fue ls are stored a nd dispensed from fixed equip-
me nt into tJ1e fuel tanks of motor vehicles or marine craft or
into approved containers, including a ll equipment used u1
connect.ion therewith . f30A:3.3.1 l1
lnforrnauonaJ Nme: Refer Lo Articles ,,10 and 511 with respecr
m e lectrical wiring and equipment for ocher areas 1Jsecl as luhri-
1.Qriums, service rooms, repair rooms, ofl-lces. salesrooms,
cc1mpressor room s, and similar locations.
Nonincendive Circuit. A circuit, oth e r than fie ld wmng, in
wh ich any arc or the rmal effect produced unde1· inte nded
operating co nditions of tl1e equipme n t, is not capable, under
specified test conditions, of igniting the fl ammable ga~-ai,~
v-apor-ai1~ or d usl'-air mixtLtre.
lnfo,·macional Note: Condit.ions a re de.scribed in ANSI/
ISA-] 2.12.01-2013, Nonim:endh!II Elecllfral Equijmient for l'se i n
Class I and II, Division 2, (IIUl Class Ill, Dillisions I and 2 Ha:umlous
(Classi/iarl) Lomlio11.1.
Nonincendive Component. A componen t having conracL~ for
making or breakin g a.11 in cend ive circuit and the contac ting
mechanism i.~ constructed so that the compone nt is incapable
of ign iting th e specified flammable gas-air or vapor-air
70-44
mixture. The housing of a nonincendive componelll is not
u1tended to exclude the flammable a tmosphere or contain an
explosion.
Informational NOLe: For further informacion, see ANSI/
IS,.\-1 2.12.01-2013, Nm,i111:,ndi:0P Elatrical Eqnipuuml for Usr1 in
Closs I awl fl, Dillision 2, rmd Clr•rs Ill, Divisil)ns J m,d 2 Hr,.zardous
(Classified) Locr!.lfom.
Nonincendive Equipment. Equipment having electrical/e lec-
tronic circuitry that L~ incapable, un.de1· 1101·mal o perating
conditions, of causing ig nitio n of a specified flammable gas-air,
vapor-air, o r dust-air mixture due to arcing o r thermal means.
lnfom1aLional Nme: For fitrd1e r informatio n, see ANSI/
ISA-12.12.01-2013, Nuni>1cendiv, .Electrical Eqaip111enl for Use ill
Class l a-nd If, Diliisio11 2, rmd Clr1s.1 Ill, Division,r 1 amt 2 Hr1.zardous
(Classified/ Loaitions.
Nonincendive Field Wiring. \ 1Viring thal enters or leaves an
equipment enclosure a nd, under normal operating conditions
of the equipment, is not capable, rlue to arcing or the rnial
effect~, of igniLing the flammable ga~-a.ir, vapor-air, or dttst-air
mixture. Normal operatio n includes opening, sho1·ting. o r
grounding the field wir ing.
Nonincendive Field Wiring Apparatus. Apparatus intended w
be connected Lo nonincendive field wiru1.g.
l nformatio nal Note; For further infom1alion, see ANSI/
ISA-12.l'.:!.0l-2013, Noninr.endiv, Ei£ctrical Eqai/mwnt fur Use in
ChL,~ I and fl. Division 2. awl Ctr.-. ill, Divi.,iow; 1 and 2 Ha.u,ml.ou;
(Classijitd) Localions.
Oil Immersion. Electrical equipme n t imme rsed in a protective
liquid i11 such a way that a n explbsive atmospher e tJ1at may be
above tJ1e liquid o r o utside the enclosure cannot be ig nited.
Optical Radiation. Elecu-omagnetic radiation at wavelen gth.~ u1
vacuum between the region of tra nsitio n to X-rays a nd th e
region of transition to radio waves, that is a pproximately
between l nm and J000 µm.
In.fom1arional Nole: Fo,· addicional inforn1:11ion on rypes of
prmecrion chat can be applied to minimize che risk of ignilion
in explosive aunospher~ from oplical racUalio n in the w,we-
le ngrh range J'rorn '.180 nm ro LO µm, see ANSI/ UL
6007!}-.28-2017, ExjJ/osivP Atm.o:,ph.eres - Prm 28: Protedio11 ofb"'quip-
merit (rnd 1immnission Systems Using O/ilia,l R,;uiiafio,1_
Optical System With Interlock "op sh". Type of protection to
minim ize th e risk of ig nitio n in ex-p losive a mmspheres fro m
opticaJ radiation where visible or infra red radiation is confined
inside o plical fibe r o r other transm.issio n medium with inte r-
lock cut-off provided Lo relia.bly reduce tl1e rmconfin ed beam
su-ength to safe levels within a specified time in case tJ1e
confineme nt fails and th e radiation becomes uncon fined.
Informalional Noce: See ANSI/ UL (i0079-28-20l7, Exj)/osi,Jf•
AlnWS/Jhere., - Part 28: Proteclim,. qj' Equipnw-11I mu/ Tm11s11,issitm
Sy.<lenLI U,irrg O/ilical Radinlion.
Outdoor Spray Area. A spray area d1at is o utside the confines
of a building or that has a canop)' or roof th at does no t limit
the dissipation of the h eat of a fi re o r dis persion of fl ammable
vapors and does not resD·ict fire-fighting access and control.
For the purpose of this standard, an ou tdoor spray area can be
tre,ited as an un enclosed spray area. [33:3.3.2.3.1 l
Portable Equipment. Equipment with e lectri cal components
suitabl.e to be moved by a su1gle pe1·son witho ut mech a nical
aids.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 AITTICLE 100-DEFINITlONS
Powder Filling "q". Type of protection w here elecu-ical part5
capable of ig niting an explosive atmosph ere are fixed in posi-
tion and completely surro unded by filling ma ter ial (glass o r
quartz powder) to prevent the ign ition of an external explosive
atmosphere.
Informaci0nal Note: See ANSI/ UL 60079-5-2016. Ex/ilns;V(,Atmos-
plwre,<- Part 5: Eq1iijmum1 /mJWlion IJy /1owd1:rjillinK "q ".
Pressurized. The process of supplying an enclosw·e wiJh a
prntective gas with o r witho ut continuous flow, at sufficie nt
pressure to prevem the eno·ance of combustible dmt or igniLi-
ble fib ers/ flyings.
Pressurized Enclosure "p". Type of prntection for e lectrical
equipment tha t use s the tech nique of g uarding against the
ingress of the external atmosphere, whic h may be explosive,
into an e nclosw ·e by maint<\ining a protective gas tJ1ere in at a
pressure above that of the exte rnal aonosphere.
Informational Note: See ANSI/ UL~0079-2-2017, Explosil!l•Atmos-
pheres - Part 2: Equ.ipment protfttion l,y pressurized enclosures "p ••.
Process Seal. A seal between electrical systems a nd flammable
or combustible process fluids ,vhere a failure could allow the
migrntion of process fluids into tl1e prem ises' wiring system.
Protected Optical Fiber Cable. Optical fiber cable protected
from relea~ing o ptical radiatio n into the atmosph ere during
normaJ operating conditions and foreseeable malfun ctio ns by
additional armoring, conduiL. cable u·ay, or raceway.
l nfomrntional Note: See ANSI/ UL 60079-28-2017, Ex/1!0.<ive
Al111osp1im,f - Part 28: Protection of Equi/nnent rmd 7'rrmsrnissiou
S_rs1,m,s Using Optical Radiation.
Protected Optical Radiation "op pr". Type of protection to
minimize the risk of ignition in explosive atmosph e res from
optical radiation where visible o r infrared radiation is confined
i11side optical fiber ox other u·ansmL5sion m edium Lmrler
normal consu·uctions or constructions witl1 add itional mechan-
ical protectio n based o n the assumption that there is no escape
of radia tion from the confinement.
Informational Note: See ANSI/ UL 60079-28-2017, E,plosive
Atmosfiherl'f - Part 28: Protertion of Eq11i/111u1nt m,d n-m1smissio1,
Systems Using O/ilical H(U[ialim,.
Protection by Enclosure "t". Type of protection for explosive
dLL~t atmospheres whe ,-e elecn·ical eq uipment is provided with
a n e nclosure providing dust ingress protection and a m eans to
limit stu-face tempern,tures.
Informatio nal Note: For additio nal in fo nn.ation, see ANS1/
UL 6007\l-~ 1-2015, fa/J/osive Atmospheres - Part 3 1: Eqrtipment
Dmt Ignition Pmtel'lio11 t,y Endo,rnm "l".
Purgecl and Pressurized. T he proce~s of ( I ) purging, supplying
an e nclosw·e with a proLective gas at a sufficie nt flow a nd posi-
tive p1·essure to reduce the concenu·ation of an y fla mmable gas
or vapor initi.aUy presem m a n acceptable level; and (2) pres-
s1u-ization, supplying an enclosure with a protective gas with o r
witho uL con tinuo us fl ow at sufficient pressure to preve nt tJ1e
e nu·a.nce of a flamma ble gas o r V'ilpor, a combustible dust, or an
ignitibl.e fiber.
Informational Note: Fo r furd1er information, see ANSJ/ NFPA
-l 96-2013. Purged and Ptt:ssttJ"k.erlEndum1nforEl,:tlrical b,r1uipmenl.
Simple Apparatus. An e lecn·ical component o r combina tion of
component5 of simple constructio n. with well-defined e lec lxical
parameters tha t does nol generate more than 1.5 volt~, 100 mA,
2020 Edition NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
CHAPTER I
a nd 25 mW, o r a passive component tliat does not rli~sipate
more tJian 1.3 watt5 a nd is compatible with the inu·insic safety
of the circuiLin wh ich it is used.
l n.frirmational Note No. 1: The following apparatus are exam-
ples of simple apparatus:
(I ) Passive compone nt~; for example, switc hes, instrumenL
connecrors, p)ugs and sockets, junction boxes, resistance
temperature devices. and simple semicond uctor devices
s uch as LEDs
(2) Sources of stored e nergy consist.ing of single components
in simple circuits 1viLh well-defined parameters; for exam-
ple, capacitors or inductors, whose values are considered
when determining 1.he overall safety of the syscem
(3) Sources of generated energy; for examp le, thermocouples
a nd phoLOceUs. rJ1at do not generate more dian 1.5 vohs.
l00m.A, and 2.~ mW
[nformationaJ Note Nu. 2: Fo r funher information, refer ro
ANSI/UL 91:1-2013. Jntiinsically Safe fljJ/J(lralus ancl Assnr:iawd
Alif;amlllSfor U.e i11 Chu I, II, III. Divi,io11 1, Hazardo11,· (Clr,ssijifd)
L ocations; and ANSI/ UL 60079- 11-110 13. £:>.-plosive Atmosphems -
Pm·t 11: Eq,.tipmeul Prottction l>y Intri·,1stc Safely ·;,"
Spray Area. Any fully enclosed, par1Jy enc losed, or unenclosed
area in which dangerous quantities of fl a mma ble o r combtL5ti-
ble vapors, mist5, re.5idu es. dlL5ts, o r rleposit~ are present due to
the ope ration of spray processes, including ( 1) an y area in tl1e
d irect path of a spray applicatio n process; (2) the inte rior of a
spray bootJ1, spray room, or limited finishing workstatio n , as
herein defined; (3) tJ1e interior of an y exhaLL5t plenum, elimi-
na tor section, or scrubber se ction ; ( 4) the interior of <1.ny
exhaLL5t d uct o r exhaust stack leading from a spniy app li.catio n
process; (5) the interiot· of a ny air recirculation patJi up Lo and
includ ing recirculatio n particu late fi lters; (6) a ny solvent
concentrator (pollu~ion a.batemen t) unit or solvent recovery
(distillation) un it; and (7) the inside of a membrane enclosure.
The following are not part of the spray area: ( 1) fresh a ir ma ke-
up Lll1it5; (2) a ir snpply duc t5 and a ir supply plemuns; (3) recir-
c ula tio n a ir supply d ucts downsu-earn of recirculation
particulate fil ters; an d (4) exhatL5t ducts from solvent concen-
u·aLOr (po llution a batement) LUlit~ . r33:3.3.2.3l
lnfi;irmatio nal Note: Une nclose~l spray areas are locations
o utside of buildings or are localized operations within a larger
room or space. Such are normally provided with some local
vapor extraction/ ventilation system. In automated operations,
die area lim.iti; are the maximum area in the direc1 path of spray
operations. In man11al operatio ns, the area lin:Lii:s are the maxi-
mum area of spray when aimed a1 90 deg~'ees to the applicatio,1
surface.
Spray Booth. A power-ventilated e nclosure for a spray a pplica-
tion operation or process tJ1at confines and limits the escape of
th e material being sprayed, including vapors, mist~. dusts, and
residues tha t are produced by tJ1e .~praying operatio n and
conducts o r d irects these mate1-ia ls to a n exhaust syste m.
r33:3.3.15l
l nfrirmatfonaJ Note: A spray bomh is an enclosure or insen
within a larger room used for spray/ coating/ dipping applica-
Lions. A spray booth L,t ll be ti.illy e ncloserl or have open front or
face and can include separate conveyor enu·ance and exit. The
spray booth ,s prol'ided with a ded icated venti lation exhaust
1vi1h supply air fro m rJ1e larger room or from a dedicated air
supply.
Spray Room. A power-ventila ted fully enclosed room used
exclusively for open spraying of fbnunable or combustible
mateiials. r33:3.3.16l
70-45
110.l ARTICLE 110- REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTIUCAL INSTALLATIONS
Type of Protection "n". Type of protect.ion where electtical
equipment, i.n normal operation, is not capable of igniti.ng a
surrow1ding explosi.ve gas atmosphere and a fault capable of
causing ignition is not likely to occur.
lnfonnal.ional NOLe: See ANSI/ UL 60079- 15-2013, Explo,;iw
Atmosph,'11/S - Parl 15: Eqt1ifmum1 ProlffliOfl iJy Ty/>e of Prolt!l:/ioll
..,,, ".
Unclassified Locations. Locations determined to b e ne ither
Class I, Di.visio n l ; Class I, Division 2; Zone 0; Zone 1; Zone 2;
Cla5s JJ, Division I ; Class Il, Division 2; Class III, Divisio n I ;
Cla~s Ill , Di.vision 2: Zone 20; Zone 2 1: Zone 22: nor a nr combi-
na tion the1·eof.
Unenclosed Spray Area. Any spray area that is n ot confined by
a limited finishing work.~ta1.ion, spray booth , or spray room , as
herein defined. [33:3.3.2.3.21
Ventilated. Provided with a means to permit c irculation of air
sufficient to 1·emove an excess of heat, fumes. or vapors.
Volatile Flammable Liquid. A flammable Ii.qui.cl having a fla~h
po int below 38°C (I00°F), or a flammable liquid whose
temperau.u·e is above its flash point, 01· a Class TI combu~tible
liqLtid that has a vapor pressure not exceeding 276 kPa
(40 psia) at 38°C (l00°F) and wh ose temperature is above its
flash point.
.ARTICLE 110
Requirements for Electrical Installations
Part I. General
110.l Scope. This article cove1·s general requireme n ts for the
examina tion and approvaJ, installation and use, access to and
spaces about electrical conductors and equipment; enclosures
intended for personnel enu-y; and tunnel in~talla t.ions.
lnformar.ional Note: See l nformaLil'e Annex J fm information
regarding ADA accessibili ty design.
110.2 Approval. The conductors and equipmem required o r
permitted by this Code shall be acceptable only if approved.
l.nformal.io nal Note: See ~J0.7, Examination of Equipme m to r
Safety, and 110.3, Exam.inalion, Identific:uion, Installatio n , and
Use of Equipmen L See definitions of Apprrroed, ldmtifi,d, Labet,,d,
and Ust.nf.
110.3 Examination, Identi.lication, Installation, Use, and List-
ing (Product Certification) of Equipment.
(A) Examination. In judging equipm.ent, co11..~ide rat.ions s uch
as the following shall be evaluated:
(1) Suitabi.Litv for installation a nd use in con forn1 ity wid1 d1is
Code ' •
ln fo rma lio nal Note No. I : Equipmem may be new, recondi.-
tioned, refurbished , or remanufacrnrerl.
Lnfo nnal.ional Note No. 2: Suitabili ty of equipme m use may be
identified by a descripl.ion ma rked o n or provided wi1h a prod-
uce LO idenLify rhe snitabili1y of the product for a specific
purpose, environment, or applical.ion. Special conditio n.5 of use
70-4fi
o r 01.h er Iimital.ions and o the r peninem informal.ion may be
marked o n rhe equipment. included in rJ1e product inslructions,
Qr included in che a ppropriate listing and labeling Information.
Suitabilicy of equipmen t ma)' be evidenced by listing or labeling.
(2) Mechanical strength a nd durability, including, for parts
designed to enclose a nd protect o ther equipment, the
adequacy of the protection drns provided
(3) Wire-bending a nd connect.io n space
(4) Electrical insulation
(.5) Healing effec~ under norma l conditions of use and a l50
under abnormal conditions likely to a rise in service
(6) Arc ing effects
(7) Classification by type, size, voltage, curre nt capac ity. and
speci fie tt~e
(8) Other factors d1at contribute to the practical safeguard-
ing o f pe1·sons using o r likely to come i.n contact with the
equipment
(B) Installation and Use. Equipment that is listed, la be led, or
both shall be installed and u~ed in accordance with any instruc-
tions included in the listing or labeling.
(C) Listing. Product testing, evaluation, and listing (product
certification ) sha ll be performed by recognized qualified elec-
trical testing la boratoi-ies a nd shall be in accordance with appli-
cable product standards recognized as achieving equivalent
and effective safety for equipment installed to comply with this
Coda.
lnJ-ormatio nal Note: The O ccupal.ional Satecy and HealrJ1
Aclminisu-al.ion (OSHA) recognizes qualified electrical ces1ing
laboratories lhat per form evaluat.ions, LeSLing, and certifical.io n
of certai11 produces tn e ns ure (hat Lhey meet the requireme n ts of
both the construcl.io n a nd gene ral indusCT)' OSHA eleccrical
standa rds. If the listing (product cer1jficarion) is done unde r a
C)Uali.fied e lectrical testing laborarory program, t.his listing ma1'k
signifies tha1 the tested and certified prod1.1ct m m plies with th e
requireme nts of o ne or more appropriate product safecy rest
standards.
110.4 Voltages. Throug ho ut this Code, d1e voltage conside red
shall be that at which the circuit operates. The voltage rati ng of
elecu-ica l equipment sha ll not be less than the nominal voltage
ofa circuit to which it is connected.
110.5 Conductors. Conductors LLsecL to carry current shall be
of copper, aluminum. o r copper-clad a luminum unless other-
wise prnvide d in th is Code. Where the conductor materia l is not
specified, the sizes given in th.is Code sha ll apply to copper
conductors. Whe re o d1e r materials a re used, the size shall be
changed accordingly.
110.6 Conductor Sizes. Conductor si.zes are expressed in
American Wire Gage (AWG) or i.n circular mils.
110.7 Wiring Integrity. Comple ted wiri ng installatio ns shall be
free from sho rt c ircuit~, grmrnd faults, or an y connections to
ground othe r than as required o r permitted elsewhere in d1is
Code.
110.8 Wiring Methods. Only wi.ring methods recognized a.~
suitable are included in this Code. The recogn izecl me thods of
wiring shall he permitted t.o be installed in a ny type o:fhuilding
or occupancy, except as otherwise provided in this Code.
110.9 Interrupting Rating. Equipment intended to interrupt
current at fault levels shal l have a n i.nterrupting rating at nomi-
nal circuit voltage at least equal Lo the curre nt that i.s availa ble
at the line terminals ofd1e equipment.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020 EdiLion
 ARTIC LE 110 - REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTIUCAL INSTALLATIONS
Equ_iprne nt intended to inten upl current at other than fa ult
levels sha ll have an inte1Tupting rating at nominal circuit volt-
age at lea5t equal to the ctu-rent that mtist h e inten-upted.
ll0.10 Circwt hnpedance, Short-Circuit Current Ratings, and
Other Characteristics. The overcurrent prntective devices, the
total impedance, the equipment short-circuit curren t ratings,
a nd other characteristics of the circuit to be protected s hall be
selected and coordinated to permit 1..he circuit protective devi-
ces LL~ecl to clear a fault to do so without extensive damnge r.o
the elecu-ical equipment of the circuit. This fault sh all be
assumed to be eithe r be twe en two or more of the circuit
conductors or between any circuit conduccor and the equip-
1ne nt ground ing co nductor(s) permitted in 250.118. Listed
equipment applied in accordance with their listing shall be
conside1·ed to meet the require ment5 of th is section.
110.ll Deteriorating Agents. Unless identified fo r u se in the
operating e nvironment, no conductors or eq uipme nt shall he
located in da mp or wet locations; where exposed to gases,
fumes, vapors. liq uid5, or o ther agent5 that have a deterio ra ting
effect o n the conductors o r equipmen t; or whe re exposed to
excessive temperaLLu·es.
InformaLional Note No. I : See 300.6 for pro1ecl.ion against
corrosion.
Jnformationru Note No. 2: Some c lea ning a nd luhrirnting
compounds can cause severe deLe1iormio n o r many plastic mate-
rials used for insulal.ing a nd scrnccural applical.ions in eqLtip-
ment.
Equipment not ide ntified for 01.1tdoor u se and equipment
ide ntified only for indoo1· u5e, such as "d.ry locations," '"indoor
use on ly," "damp locations," or e nclosure Types l , 2, 5, 12, 12K,
and/or 13, shall be protected agains t c;lamage from the weather
during construction.
Informational Note No. 3: See Table 110.28 for appropriate
e nclosure-Lype designations.
lnfom1atio nal Note No. 4: Minimum Hood p rovisions are provi-
ded in NFPA 5000-201 5 Building Construclion mul Saftly Code, 1he
lnltrm(iliurwl Building Code (!BC), and the Intemalional Residenlial
Cud1:jar One- c,11(( Ttua-F11mi(v Dwellings ( m C).
110.12 Mechanical Execution of Work. Electt·ical equipment
shall be installed in a neat and workman like manner.
Informational Note: Accepted indusu-y practices are described
in ANSI/NECA. 1-20 15. Sta11drml Jnr Good WorkmcmshijJ in Eleclri-
rnl Cnnst,w:lion, and o l.he r ANSI-approved installa tion standards.
(A) Un used Openings. Unused openings, oth er tforn those
intended for the operation of equip ment, those intended for
mounting ptu-pose$, or tJ1ose pe rmitted as part of tJ1e de$ig n
for listed eq uipment, shall be closed to afford protec tion
substantially eqttivalent tO the wall of the equipme nt. Whe1·e
metallic plugs or plates a re LL~ed wi tJ1 nonmetallic enclostu·es,
they shall be recessed at lea~t 6 mm (1/,1 in.) from the o ute1·
sudace of the e n.closw·e.
(B) Integrity of Electrical F.quipmenl and Connections. Inter-
nal parts of e lecb·ical equipme nt, incJuding busbars, wiring
terminals, insulat0rs, and othe r s urfaces, shall not be damaged
or contaminated by foreign materia ls such as paint, plaster,
cleaners, abrasives, or corrosive residues. The re shall be no
damaged parts that may adversely affect safe oper a tion or
mechanical strength of the equipment such as parts U1at are
broken; bent; cut; o r deteriorated b)' cor rosion, c he mical
action, 01· overheating.
2020 Edition NATLONAL E LECTRICAL. CODE
110. 14
(C) Cables and Conductors. Cables and conductors insta ll ed
exposed on the surfaces of ceilings and sidewalls shall be
supported by the building structure in such a manner tJ1at tJ1 e
cabl es a nd conductors will not be damaged by normal building
use. Such cables and conducto rs shall be secured by h ardwa1·e
incluiling straps, staples, cable ties, hangers, or similar fittings
designed and installed so as n ot to damage tJ1e cable. The
installatio n shall also conform with 300.4 a nd 300. ll. Nonme-
tallic cable ties and o ther non metallic cab le accessories u5erl to
secure a nd support cables in other spaces used for e nviron-
me n tal air (plenum;;) shall be listed as having low smoke and
heat release properties.
Informationa l NOLe No. I: Accepted inclusuy prac1ices a re
described in ANSI/ NECA/ FOA :101-2009, Strmdaid for Im,lalli11g
,mil 71!sting Fiber OJ;tic Cnh/Ps, and other ANSI-approved ins1alla-
tinn smndarcls.
lnformarfo nal Note No. 2: See 4.3.IL2.6.5 a nd 4.'.3.11.5.5.fi of
NFPA. 90A-2018 , Standard for //,e l nstallalio11 qf Air-Gorulilioning
cmrt Ve111ilali11g Systems, for discrete co mb1JsLible com ponenrs
ins1alled in accordance with 300.22 (C).
lnf-ormalional Note No. 3: Pa int, plaHe•~ cleaners, abrasives,
corrosive residu.es, or oth er contaminanLS n1ay resulLin an unde-
lermined alteration of optical liber cable properties.
110.1 3 Mounting and Cooling of Equipment.
(A) Mounting. Elec trical eq1.1ipme nt shall be firm ly secure d to
the surface on whicl1 it is mow1ted. Wooden p lugs driven into
holes in mason ry, con □-ete, plaste1; o r similar materials shall
not be used.
(B) Cooling. Electrical equipment that dep ends on Lhe natu-
ral circulatio n of a ir and convection principl es for cool ing of
exposed surfaces shall be installed so tha t room airflow over
s uch sm·faces is nor prevented by walls o r by adjacent instaUed
equipment. For e qu.ipmem designed for fl oor mounting, clear-
ance be tween top surfaces a nd adj acent surfaces shall be provi-
ded to dissipaLe rising warn1 air.
Electrical equipment provide d witJ1 ventila ting openings
shall be installed so that walls or oth e r obstructions clo not
prevent the free circulation of air through lhe eq uipment.
110.14 Electrical Connections . Becau se of d iffe re nt c haracter-
istics of dissimilar metals, devices sud1 as pressure te rmi nal or
pressure splicing conneccors and solde ring lugs sha ll be ide nti-
fied for tJ1e material of the conductor a nd sh all be properly
installed and u~ed. Conductors of d issimilar metals shall no t. be
intermixed _in a term.inaJ or splicing connector wh ere physical
c0t1.tact occurs betwee n dissimila r conductors (such as copper
and a luminum o r altrn1in um and coppe1~clad a luminum),
unless the device is identified fo r the purpose and con d itions
of use. Materials such as solde r, fluxes, inhibitors, and
com pounds, where employed, shall be suitable for the use and
shall h e of a type tha t will no t adve rsely aflect the conductors,
installatio n, or equipmen t.
Con nectors and termina ls for conduc to rs more fin e ly strnn-
decl tJ1a.i1 Class B a nd C lass C stranding as shown in Chapte1· 9,
Tobie 10, shall be iden tified for the specific conductor class or
classes.
70-47
110.14 ARTICLE 110-.REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTIUCAL INSTALLATIONS
(A) TerminaJs. Connection of conductors to terminal parts
shall ensure a thoroughly good connection withoul damaging
the conductors and sha ll be made by means of pressure
connectors (including set-screw type), solder lugs, or splices to
flexible leads. ConnecLion by means of wire-binding screws or
studs and nuts that have upturned lugs or l11e equivalent shaU
be permitLed for LOAWG o r smaller conductors.
Terminal~ For more Ll1an one conductor and termi nals used
r.o connect a luminum shall be so identified.
(B) Splices. Conductors shall be spliced o r joined with splic-
ing <levices identified for Ll1e use or by b razing, we lding, or
soldering with a l"LL~ible metal or alloy. Soldered splices shall
first be spliced or joined so as to be mechanically and electl"i-
cally secure without solder and then be soldered. All splices
and joints and the free ends of conductors shall be covered
with an insulation equivalent to that of the conductors or with
an identified insulating device.
vVire connectors or splicing means inMalled on conductors
for direct bw·ial shall be listed for such use.
(C) Temperature Limitations. T he temperature rating associ-
ated with the ampacity of a conductor shall be selected and
coordinated so as nol to exceed the lowest temperatLtre rating
of any connected Lermination, conducwr, or device. Conduc-
to1·s with temperature ratings hig her man specified for termi-
nations shall be pem1 itLed to be used fo r ampacit)' arljustment,
correction, o r both.
( 1) Equipment Provisions. The detennination of ter mination
provisions of equipment shall be ba~ed on l I 0.l 4(C) ( J) (a) or
(C)( l )(b). Unless the equipment is listed and marked other-
wise, conductor ampacilies used in determining equipment
termination provisions shall be based on Table 3J0. I 6 as appro-
priately modified by 310.l 2.
(a) Termination provisions of equipment for circuits
raLed JOO amperes or less, or marked for 14 AWG through
l AWG conductors, shall be used on ly for one of the follmvin g:
(l) Conductors rated 60°C (140°F).
(2) Conductors with higher temperatme ratings, provided
the ampacity of such conductors is determined based on
me 6D°C ( 140°F) ampacity of the conducto1· size LL~ed.
(3) Conductors with h igher temperature ratings if the equip-
ment is listed and identified for use wiLh such conductors.
(4) Fo1· motors marked wiili design letters B, C, o r D, conduc-
tors having an insu lation rating of 75°C (l 67°F) or hig her
shall be permitted to be used. provided the ampacity of
such conductors does not exceed the 7!'i°C ( l 67°F )
ampacity.
(b) Termination prov1s10ns of equipment for circuits
rated over LOO amperes, or marked for conductors larger than
l AV•lG, shall b e used o nly for 011,e of the fo Llo,ving:
(l ) Conductors rated 75"C (l67°F)
(2·) Conductors with h igher temperatme ratings, provided
rl1e ampacity of such conductors does not exceed the
7.5°C (167"F) arnpacity of the conductor size used, or up
to their ainpacity if t11e equipment L~ listed and identified
for use wirl1 such conductors
(2) Separate Connector Provisions. Separ:;1tely installed pres,
sure connectors shall be used with conductors at the arnpacities
not exceeding the ampacity at the listed a nd identified temper-
amre rating of l11e connector.
70-48
l nformaLional No1e: WiLh respect m 110.14(C) (1) anc;I (C) (2),
equ.ipmenL markings or lisLing informal.ion ma)' addiLionally
resuict the sizing and temperature ratings of connected conduc-
tors.
(D) Terminal Connection Torque. Tig hte ning torque values
for termi na l connections shall h e a~ indicated on equi.pment 01·
in insta llation insu-·uctions provided b)' the manufacturer. An
approved means sha ll be u.~ed to achieve the .indicated torque
value.
l nformaLional Note No. I: Examples of approved means of
achieving· L11e indicarecl 1orque vaJ11es include torque rools or
devices such as shear bolts o r breakaway-style devices wiLh ,~sual
indicators chat demonstra1e 1hat 1he proper tqrque ha$ been
applied.
Informational Nme No.~: The equipmem mam1fac1urer can be
contaCLed if numeric torque values are 1101. indicaied on the
equipment or if the inscallation instrucLions are not available.
Informative Annex J of UL Standard 486A486B, Sllmdard .fnr
Sapty-WirP Cm,nedars, provides torque values in the absence or
manufacturer's recommendations.
lnformationaJ Nme No. 3: Additional information for torquing
tJ1readed connections and terminations can be found in Section
8. 11 of NFPA 70B-20] 9, H,rom11li!"nded Pmllire }or Eleclrictil J:,r/ttifr
men/ l\1ai1tll'l'1anu.
110.1 5 Hig h-Leg Marking. On a 4-wi,·e., delta-con nected ryste m
w he 1·e the rnidpoi.nt o f one phase winding is g rounded, o nly
the conductor or bLL~bar having rl1e highe r phase voltage to
ground shall be durably and permanemly marked by an outer
fin ish that is o range in color or by othe r effective means. Such
identification shall be placed at each point on the system where
a connection is made if me grounded cond uctor is al50
present.
110.16 Arc-FJash Hazard Warning.
(A) General. Electrical eqLtipment, such as switchboards,
S\vitchgear, pa ne lboards, industrial control panels, meter socket
en closw·es, an d motor comrol centers, that is in other thai1
dwelling unit.~, and is likely to req11ire examination, adj ust-
ment, se1·vicing, or ma.intenance while e nergized, shall be field
or factory marked r.o warn q ua lified persons of potential elec-
uic arc flash hazards. The marki11g shall meet the requireme nt~
in 110.21 (B) and shal l be located so as to be cleai·ly visible to
quali fied persons before exam ination, acljustment, servicing, Dr
maintenance of the equipment.
(B) Service Equipment. In o ther l11an dwelling wuls, in addi-
tion to the requirement5 in 11 0.16(A) , a permanent la be l shall
be fie ld or factory applied to se1·vice equipmelll i-ated
1200 amps 01· more. The label shaU meet the requirements of
110.2 1(B) and contain t11e following inforn1atio n:
(1) Nom ina l system voltage
(2) Avai lable fau lt curre nl al the service overcurrenl protec-
tive devices
(3) The cleai·ing time of se1v ice overc,:urrent protective devi-
ces based o n rl1e available fau lt curre nt a t the service
equipment
(4) The date the label was applied
Excl'{1tio_n: Servic.R equipment labeling shall not be required if an arr
flash label is af1plir.d in atcordrm1;e with aw1ptable indusl1y pmdia.
lnformationaJ Note No. 1: NFPA 70&201$, Slandrml.for lilectricat
Safety i'II lhe Workplare, provides guidance, such as cerermining
severity of pmential exposure, planning sate work practices. arc
Hash labeling. and selecting personal protective equipmem.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 11 0- REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS
Jnfomrncional Note Ne,. 2: ANSI 2535.4-2011, Pmduc/ &ifi!ty Signs
and Labefr, provides guidelines for Lhe des.ign of safety signs and
labels for application 10 products.
lnfo1111acional Note No. 3: Acceptable indusrry practices for
equipment labeling :ire described in NFPA 70£-2018, Slrmdardj or
Elei'lrir'al Softly i11 lite Worhji/arn. This sw11dard provides specific
criLeria for developing arc-flash labels for equipment chac
provides nominal system voltage, incidem encrg)' levels, arc-l'lash
bou.ndaries, minimum required levels of personal protective
equipmem, and so lhrth,
110.18 Arcing Parts. Part~ of e lectrica l equipment. that in ordi-
nary operation produce arcs, sparks, fl ames, or molten metal
sh all be enclosed o( separated and isolated from all co1nbusti-
ble matet-ial.
l nfomrndonal Note: For hazardous (classified) locations, ~ee
Ankles 500 1hrough 517. For motors, see 430. 14.
110.19 Light and Power from Railway Conductors. Circuits for
lighting and power shall not be connected to any system that
contai n.~ trolley wires with a ground rettu-n.
Exce/Jlion: S,ach. circuit connections .~hall be perrnilled in car houses,
potvff houses, or pas.w;nger and freight stntirms opera/eel in umnrction
wi.ll1 elecl1ic milways.
110.21 Marking.
(A) Equipment Markings.
(1) General. Th e manufactm·er's name, u·ademark, or other
descriptive marking by which the o rganization responsible for
the product can be identified sha ll be placed on a ll electrical
equipment. Othe1· ma_rkings that indicate voltage, current,
wattage, or other ratings shall be provided a5 specified e lse-
wh ere in this Code. Th e marking o r labe l shall be of sufficient
rhu·ability co withstand the e nviro n ment involved.
(2) Reconditioned Equipment. Reconditioned equipment
shall be mai-ked with the name, trademark, or other descriptive
m,u-king by which the 01·gan.ization responsible for recondition-
ing the elecu·ical equipment can be identified, a lo ng with the
date of the reconditio ning.
Reconditioned equipment shall be ide ntified as "recondi-
tioned" and the original listing mark removed. Approval of rJ1e
reconditioned equip me nt shall not he b ased solely on the
equipment's o riginal listing.
Exteption: I n industrial o/'l'·uj)ancies, 1/Jh(II·~ conditions of 11winlenan('(1
and supr>rvision ensure that only qualified f1mons service lhe equip-
rnrmt, the markings indicaled in 110.21 (A)(2) ,hall no/ be mruired for
~q·ui/nnent lhal i5 reconditioned by 1h11 01.,m.11r or operator as /1art of a
,egular equi/nnent mainlenmu:e Jnvgmm.
Informational No1e No. l : Industry standards are available for
application of recondii:inned and refurbished equipmenL
ln fonnarional Note No. 2: The rerm m;rmditioued may be incer-
changeable wirh the rerrns rebuill, re.f11rbisl111d. or remar,i!flltlumd.
Informational Note No. 3: The original listing mark 11lfl)' include
the mark of the certifying body and not the emire equ ipmem
label.
(B) Field-Applied Hazard Markings. Where caution, warning,
or clanger sig ns or labe ls are required by this Code, the labels
slcal l meet the following requirement~:
( 1) The marking shall •.varn of the hazards using effective
words, colo rs, symbol~, or any combination the reof.
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
110.24
Informational Nme: ANSI 2535.4-20 11 , Prod11ct Safety Signs m,r/
Label;, provides guidelines for suitable fom sizes, words, colors,
symbols, and location requiremenLS for labels.
(2) 171e la be l shall be permanently affixed to the equipment
or wiring method a nd shall not be handwritten.
Exce/Jti<m to (2): Portions of lrlbels or markings that are variable, or
tltal could b11subject to changes, shall be /1ermitled lo bf handwrilten
and shall be legible.
(3) 171e la bel shall be of su.fficien l d urability to withstand the
environment involved .
Informational Note: ANSI 2,,%.4-201 l, Product Sa,(i:ty Sig11s a11d
Lal/Ills, provides guidelines for che design and durabili Ly of safety
signs and labels for application ro electrical equipmenc.
I I 0.22 Identification of Djsconnecting Means.
(A) General. Each d isconnecting means shall be legibl)'
marked to indicate it~ purpose unless localed and arranged so
the purpose is evident. In other than one- o r two-family dwell-
ings, 1.h e marking sha ll include the identification of th e c ii·cuit
source th at supplies the d isconnecting means. T he marking
shall be of sufficie nt durability to withstand 1,.he environment
involved.
(B) Engineered Series Combination Systems. Equipment
enclosures for circuit breakers 01- fuses appl.ied in complia nce
with sei:ies combina tion ratings selected under engi.neering
s upetvision in accordance with 240.86(A) shall be legibly
marked in the field as d irected by th e engineer to indicate the
equipment h as been applied with a se r·ies com bination rati11g.
T he mar.king shall rneet the requirements in 110.2l (B) and
shall be readily visible and state the following:
CAUTION - ENGINEERED SERIES COMB!NATION
SYSTEM RATED _ _ _ .AJ.\1PERES. IDENTIFIED REPlACE-
MENT COMPONENTS REQUIRED.
(C) Tested Se ries Combination Systems. EqLtipm.ent enclo-
s ures for circuit breakers o r fuses applied in compliance with
1.he series combinatio n rati ngs marked o n th e equipment by
rhe manu factu rer in accordance with 240.86( B) shall be legibly
ma rked in the fie ld to .indicate th e equipme nt has been appli ed
wi1.h a series com bination rating. T he marking sha ll meet the
requiremem~ in l 10.21 ( B) and shall h e readily visible and state
the following:
CAUTION-SERIES COMBINATION SYSTEM RATED
AMPERES. IDENTIFIED REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS
REQUIRED.
Informational Note: See IEEE 3004.5-2014 Recomm,m,rlecl Pmcliu'
for lhl' Jlfi!ilicaliun of Luw-\lollag, Cin;uil Breakers ill hulu,tlrird rmd
Cmn•111en·ial Power Syslems, for funher infonnar..ion on series cested
systems.
110.23 Current Transformers. Unused cw-rent n-a.nsformers
associaced with pocentially energized circuits sh all be short-
circ uited.
110.24 Available Fault Current.
(A) Field Marking. Senrice equipment at other than dwelling
Lui.its shall be legibly ma rked in the fie ld with the available fault
c mrent. The field marking(s) shall inc.lnde the date the fault-
curre nt calculatio n was pei-fonned a nd be of suffkient durabil-
ity to withstand the e.nviro1m1e nt involved. The calculation shall
70-49
110.24 ARTICLE 110 -REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECmJCAL INSTALLATIONS
be documented and made available w those authorized to
design, install, inspect, maintain, or operate the system.
lnfomrntional Note No. 1: The available fauh--currenl mark--
ing(s) addressed in l l0.24 is related Lo required sho[t--ci rcuir
curren1 and internqxing ratings of eqttipmen1. MPA 70J.;.2018,
Sirmdcml far J:.:/ew-;rr,[ Safaty in the Wurkpla.a, provides assistance in
determini11g 1.he severity of pote ntial exposure. planning safe
work practices. and selec1ing personal protective equipment.
Lnformational Note No. 2: Values of available fau lt current fc11·
use in determining appropriate minimum shon--circwL current
and interrupting ratings nfservice eqwpment are availal,le from
electric utilities ·i n published o r o tl1er forms.
(B) Modifications. ',i\lhen modifications to the electrical instal-
lation occur that affect the avai !able fault current at the service,
the availabl e fault current shall be verified or recalculated as
necessarr to ensure the service equipment ratings ru·e sufficient
for the available fau.lt current at the line terminals of the equip-
menL The requi.red field marking(s) in l l0.24(A) shall be
aclju~t.ed to renect the new level of available fault current.
Exceptioii: The jiPld m.arhing requiremenLt in 110. 24(AJ and
l 10.24(B) shall not be mquired in indust1ial installations tvhl'/"e condi-
tions of nwinlenance and supervision rnsui-e tlwt only q11alijied
pm:wns seruir:e the 11q(li/Jrnt:nl.
110.25 Lockable Disconnecting Means. If a disconnecting
means is required to b e lockable open elsewhere in this Code, it
shall be capable of be ing locked in the ope n position. The
provisions for locking shal l remain in place with or without the
lock i.mtallecl.
t:xl'eption: Lod1ing provisions for a rnrd--mul--plug connettio-n shalt no!
/)p rnquii"l!d to remain in plac,, witho1tl the lol'k installed.
Part II. 1000 Volts, Nominal, or Less
110.26 Spaces About Electrical Equipment. Access and work-
ing space shall be provided and m.aintained about all electrical
equipment to permit ready and safe operation and mainte-
nance of such equ.ipmenl.
(A) Working Space. Working space for equipment operating at
1000 volt5, nominal, or less to ground and likely to req ui.re
examination, adju~011ent, servicing, or maintenance wh ile
energized shall comply with the dimensions of 110.26(A) ( .1 ),
(A) (2), (A) (3), and (A) ( 4-) or as required or permitted else-
where in this Corti'.
Informational Note: NPPA 70E-2018, Stancl,inl for- t:lettrir«l Srl/i-ly
i n Lhe l¼1rk/1Lar.e, provides guidance, such as deLern1ining severi1y
or potential exposure, plauning safe work practices including
establishing an eleCLrically sal·e work condition, arc flash label-
ing, and selecting pe1·sonal protective ec1uiprnem.
( 1) Depth of Working Space. The de ptJ1 of the working space
in tJ1e dfrection af live part~ shall not he less than Lhat specified
in Table 110.26(A) (1) unless the requirements of 110.26(A) (! )
(a). (A)( l )(b), or (A)(J )(c) are met. Distances shall be meas-
ured from the exposed live part~ or from the e.nclosw·e or
opening if tJ1e live parts are enclosed.
(a) Dead--Fro11.l Assnn/Jli1.1, Working space shall not be
required in the back o r sides of assemblies, such as de ad--front
switchboards, s,vitchgear. or motor control centers, where all
connection,~ and all renewable 01- acljustable part~, such as fuses
or switches, are accessible from locations other than the back
nr sides. , ,vhere rear access is required to work on nonelectrical
70--50
parts on the back of enclosed equipmem, a minimum horizon--
t;_'ll wodang space of762 mm (30 in. ) shall be provided.
(b) Low Vollage. By special permi.~sion, smaller working
~paces shall be permitted where a ll exposed live part~ operate
at not greater than 30 volt~ rms, 42 volts peak, o r 60 volts de.
(c) l!,m sting Buildings. In exi,~ci.ng buildings where elecu·i--
cal equipment is being replaced, Condition 2 working clear-
ance shal l be perm itted between dead--front switchboards.
s1vitchgear, panelboarrls, or mot01- conu-ol centers located
across the aisle from each other where conditions of mainte-
nance ,rnd supervision ensure that written procedures h rwe
been adopted to prohibit equipment on both sides of the aisle
from being open at tJ1e san1.e ti.me and qualified pe1·sons who
are authorized will service tl1e instal lation.
(2) Width of Working Space. The width of tJ1e working s pace
in front of the elecu·ical eq uipment shall he the wicltJ'l of tJ1e
equipment or 762 mm (30 in.), whichever is greater. 1n all
cases, the work space shall permit a t lea~t a 90 degree opening
of equipment doors or hinged panels.
(3) Height of Working Space. The work space shall be clear
and extend from the grade, floor, or platform to a height of
2.0 m (6½ ft) or tJ1e height of tJ1e equipment, wh ichever is
g reater. Within tl1e he ight requirements of th.is section, other
equipme.nt or supporL structures, such a,5 concrete pads, associ-
ated witJ1 the e lectrical i.t1sLallation and located above or below
the electrical equipment shall be pem1itted to extend not more
tJ1an 150 mm (6 i.t1.) beyond the front of the electrirnl equip-
ment.
E-:cej>lion No. I: On batle1y systems mounted on open racks, lh.P top
dJ<armu:p shall comply with. 480.1 0(D ).
i',xception No. 2: In existing dwelling 1.1nils, service equipment or />anel--
boards that do not exceed 200 amf>eres shall bP pmnittell in sf){trl/S
where the height ofthe wo,d1ing sf1ar:e is ll/Ss than 2. () 111 (61/2 ft ),
E.-:cf'f1tion No. 3: Nltters that 1Jre imtalled in 11/Pter sachets shall bP
f1ennittPd to e:A1end b1yond the olhm· equifmu"nt. The m.elfr socket shall
be required to follotv the rules of this section.
Table 110.26(A)(l) Working Spaces
Nominal Mininuun Oear Distance
Voltage to
Ground Condition l Condition 2 Condition 3
0-l/'JO 900 nill1 (3 l't) 900 lllm (3 ft) 900 mm (3 ft)
151--600 900 mtn (3 ft) l.0m(3ft6io.) l.2 m (4ft)
601-1000 900 mm (3 ft) J.2 Lil (4 lt) 1.5 m (5 ft)
Note: Where the con di Lions are as follows:
Condition 1 - Exposed live parts on one side of the working space and
no live o r gronnded parts on the other side of the working space. or
exposed live parts on holh ~des oft he working space 1hm are
effectively guar<led by insulating materials.
Condition 2 - Exposed live parts o n crne sicle of the working space and
gro11nded part~ on tJ1e other side of the working space. Concre te,
brick, or tile walls shall be. considered a~ grounded.
Condition 3 - Exposed live part~ on both sides of th e working space.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 11 0 - REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS
(4) Limited Access. '1\'here equipment operating at LO00 volt5,
norninal, or less to ground and likely to require examination,
acljustment, se1vicing, or maintenance wh.ile energized is
required by installation instructions or function to be located
in a space with limited access, all of the following shall a pply:
(1) Where equipment is installed above a lay-in ceiling, there
shall be a n o pening nol smaller than 559 mm x 559 mm
(22 in. x 22 in.) , or in a crawl space, there shall be an
accessible opening not smaller than 559 mm x 762 mm
(22 in. x 30 in.) .
(2) The width of the working space shall be the width of the
equipment enclosure or a minimum of 762 mm (30 in.),
whichever i.~ g reater.
(3) All enclosure doors or hinged panels shall be capable of
opening a minimum of90 degrees.
( 4) The space in front of the enclosure shall comply with the
depth requirement5 of Table ll0.2fi(A)(l ) . The maxi-
mum heig ht of the working space shall be the height
necessary to install the equipment in the limited space. A
ho rizontal ceiling structural member o r access panel shall
be permilted in this space .
(5) Separation from High-Voltage Equipment. Where switch es,
cutout5, or other e(]ltipment operating at 10Q0 volt5, nominal,
or less are installed i n a vault, room, or enclosure wh ere the1·e
are exposed Jive part~ or exposed wiring operating over
I 000 volts, nominal, the high-voltage e(]uipment shall he effec-
tively separated from tJ1e space occupied by the low-voltage
equipment by a suitable partition, fence, or screen.
(B) Oear Spaces. vVork.ing space required by this section s hall
not be used for storage. Vlhen normally enclosed live parts ,l!'e
exposed for inspection or servicing, the working space, if in a
passageway or ge neral open space, shall be suitably guarded.
(q Entrance to and Egress from Working Space.
(I ) Minimum Required, At least one entrante of sufficient
a1-ea shall be provided LO give access to a nd egress from work-
ing space about elecu-ical eqttipment.
(2) Large Equipment. For large eq uipment that contains over-
curre nt devices, switching devices, or control devices, rl1ere
shal l be one entrance co and egr·ess from the required working
space not less than 610 mm (24 in.) wide and 2.0 m (6½ ft)
high at each end of the working space. This ref]LLirement shall
apply to either of the following conditions:
( I) For e(]uipment rated 1200 amperes or more and ove1- 1.8
m (6 ft) wide
(2) for service disconnecting n1eans installed in accordance
with 230.7 1 where the combined ampere rating is 1200
amperes or more a nd over 1.8 m (6 ft.) wide
Open equipment rloors shal l not impede the e nuy to or
egress from the working space.
A single enu·ance to and egress from the required working
space shall be permitted where e ither of the conditions i.J1
I 10.26(C)(2) (a) or (C) (2)(b) is met.
(a) UnnbstrttcfPd Lgress. '"'here the location permits a
continuous and unobsu·ucted way of egress u·avel, a single
en trance to the working space shall be permitted.
(b) Extra Working Space. Whe1·e the depth of the working
space is twice that reqtLi.J-ed by ll0.2fi(A)(I), a single e no-ance
shall be permitted. It sha ll be located such that the clistante
from the equipment to the nearest edge of the e ntrance is not
less than the mininuun clear distance specified in Table
2020 Edition NATLONAL ELECTRLCAL CODE
110.26
11 0.26(A) ( I) for equipmem operating at that voltage and in
that condition.
(3) Personnel Doors. Where equipment rated 800 amperes or
more that contai11s overcurrent devices, s,vitch.ing devices, or
control devices is installed and there is a personne l door(s)
intended for enu·ance to and egress from the working space
less than 7.6 m (25 fl) from the nearest edge of the working
space, the door(s) sh all open in the direction of egress and be
equipped with listed panic hardware or listed fire exit hard-
ware.
lnfrumariona l Note: For informarfon on panic hardware, see UL
gor,. Standanl Fur Safrly Fur Pa11ir Hartl,ll(m. for lire exit hard-
ware, see U L 305, Slmuiard For Panic Hm,lware, and UL IOC,
Sl/'i-nrlanl for Sll{ely for Pos:irive Pmss wi Fin, Tests of Door Assemhlies.
(D) Illumination. Illumination shall be provided for all work-
ing spaces about se1v ice e(]uipmen t, switchboards, switchgear,
panelboards, or motor control centers installed indoors.
Control by a utomatic means shall not be permitted to control
al l illumination ,vithin the working space . Additional lighting
outlet~ shall not be required where the work space is illumina-
ted by an adjacent light source or as p ermitted b)' 210. 70(A)
(I), Exception No. I, for swi tched receptacles.
(E) Dedicated Equipment Space. All swi tchboards, switchgear,
panelboards, and motor control centers shall be located in
dedicated spaces a nd protected from damage.
Exoption: Control equipment that by its very ·11.at·ure or becanse of other
ruLPs of the Code must be adjru:ent lo or within sight of its opemting
marhinery shall be /1ermilted in lhnse locations.
(1) Indoor. lndoor installations shall comply with IJ0.26(E)
( l) (a) through (E)( l )(d ) .
(a) Dedicated I!.'lec('ricrzl S/xu;e, Th e space equal LO the ,vidth
and depth of the equipmenL a nd extending from the floor to a
hei ght of 1.8 m (6 ft) above the equipment or w the structural
ceiling, whichever is lower, shall be dedicated to tl1e elecn-ical
installation. No piping, ducts, leak protection appai:atus, or
other equipment foreign to tJ1e elecn·ical installation shall be
loca ted in th.is zone.
E,cceptinn: Suspended ceilings with rernovable paneL.1 shall be /1ermilled
wilhin the lJ/,m (6-Ji,) z1me.
(h) Fnnign Systems. The area above tJ1e dedicated space
re(]uired by I 10.26(E) (1) (a) shall be permitted Lo contain
foreign systems. provided protection is installed to avoid
damage to the electrical equipment from condensation, leaks,
m- breaks in such foreign systems.
(c) Sprinhler Protec/ion. Sprinkler protection shall be
permitted for the dedicated space where the piping compli es
with this section.
(cl) Stts/JfndPd Ceilings. A dropped, suspended, or similar
ceiling that does not add strengrl1 to the building structure
shall not be considered a su·uctural ce iling.
(2) Outdoor. Outdoor installations shall comply with
ll0.26 (E)(2)(a) throug h (E)(2)(c) .
(a) hlst(l.llettion Requimnenls. Outdoor electrical equip-
ment shall be the follmving:
( 1) installed in identified e nclosw·es
(2) Pro tenecl from accidental contact by unauthorized
personnel or by vehicular n-affit
(3) Pro tected from accidental spillage or leakage from piping
systems
70-51
110.26 ARTICLE 110 - REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTIUCAL I NSTALI.AT IONS
(h) Woth Space. The working clearance space sh all
include the zone d escribed in 110.2fi(A) . No a rchitectural
appu rtenance or o ther equi p ment sha ll be located in t hi~ zone.
(c) DPdicaled Equipmmt Space. The space equal to the
width and depth o f th e equipme n t, a nd exte nding fro m grade
to a heig ht of 1.8 m (6 ft) above th e e quipment, shall be dedi-
cated to the e lectrical installa tio n. No piping or oLher eq Ltip-
ment fore ign to the e lectrical installatio n sh a ll be located in
tJ1is zone .
Exception: Structural overhangs or mof extensions shall /JP pennitted in
th.is zone.
(F) Locked Electrical Equipment Rooms or Enclosures. Elec-
trical equipment rooms or e nclos LLres housing e lectrical appa-
ratus that are controlled by a lock(s) shall b e considered
accessible to q ual ified persons.
110.27 Guarding of Live Parts.
(A) Live Parts Guarded Against Accidental Contact. Except a5
e lsewhere required or permitted by th is Corle, live pat-ts of elec-
u·ical equipm em operaLing a l 50 to 1000 volL5, nominal sh a ll be
guarded against accidental contact by approved e nclosu res o r
by any of the following m eans:
(1) By location in a room , vault, or similar en closure thaL is
accessible o nly to q ua li fied persons.
(2) By pe n mment, substantial part.itions o r screens arranged
so tJ1a L only qualified pe rsons have access to Lhe space
withi n reach of the Live parts. Any opening-s in such parti-
tion s or screens shall be sized a nd localed so that persons
a1-e not likely to come into accidental contact with the Live
parts or to bring cond ucting o bjects into contact wiLh
them.
(3) By location on a balcony, _gallery, or platform e levated and
arran ged so as to exclude unqua lifi ed persons.
(4) By e levation above the floor or olher working surface ,;t.5
follows:
a. A minimum of 2.5 m (8 ft) for 50 vol ts to 300 voltq
between ungroun ded cond uctors
b. A 1ni.nim um of 2.6 111. (8 ft. 6 i n.) fo r 301 volL5 to
600 volt5 between 1.mgroLmded conductors
c. A m in i.mum of 2.62 m (8 fl 7 in .) for 60 1 volLs to
1000 vOIL5 between m1.groundecl conductors
(B) Prevent Physical Damage. In locations wh e re e lectrical
equipme nL i5 likely to be exposed to physical da mage, e nclo-
sures or g uards shall be so arranged a nd of such strength a5 to
prevent such damage.
(C) Warning Signs. En trances to rooms an d o ther gua rded
locations that contain exposed live part5 shall be marked with
conspicuo u.5 warning signs fo rbidding unqualified pe1·so ns to
enter. Th e marking shall meetthe req uiremen ts in 110.2 1 (B) .
Informational Nole: For motors, see 4:l0.232 a nd 430.233. For
over l000 volt.,, see 110.34.
110.28 Enclosure Types. E nclos tLres (otl1er than SlUTound ing
fences o r wal ls covered in 110.31) of switchboards, switchgear,
panelboards, industrial control panels, motor con u·ol centers,
me ter socket5, e nclosed switches, tramfer switch es, power
o utlets, circuit breakers, adj ustable-speed d rive systems, pullo ut
switches, portable power d istrib ution e q uip ment, termination
boxes, general-pu rpose u·ansfo.rme1-s, fire pump con trolle rs.
fire p ump motors, a nd motor con trollers. rated n ot over
1000 volt5 nomina l and intended for such locations, sha ll be
70-52
marked with an enclosure-type number as shown in Table
11 0.28.
Table 110.28 shall be used for selecting these en closures for
use in specific locatio ns other th ar1 h azanlous (classified) loca-
tions . Th e e nclostll'es are not intended to protect against
condition s such as condensation, ic ing, cor rosio n, or con tami-
nation th at may occu r within tl1e enclosure o r e nter via tJ1e
raceway o r un$ealed openings.
Part IlL Over 1000 Volts, N ominaJ
110.30 General. Cond uctors a nd eq uipment used o n circui L5
over 1000 volts, nom ina l, sha ll comp ly with Part l of tJ1is article
and with 110.30 through 11 0.41, which sup ple mem o r modify
Part r. In no case sh all tliis part apply to eqLLipm ent o n the
supply side of the se1vice po int.
110.31 Enclosure for Electrical Installations. E lectrical insta1-
lati.01L~ in a vaulL, 1-00111, o r clo.~el or in a n area SLUTounded by a
wall, screen, or fe nce, access to whic h is co ntrolled by a lock(s)
or o ther approved means, sha ll be conside red to be accessible
to q ualified persons o nly. The type of enclosure LL5ed in a given
case sha ll be designed and c onsu·ucted according to 1J1e nature
and degree of Lhe haza,·d(s) associated with the installation.
For installations othe r drnn equip ment as described in
110.31 (D), a wall, screen, or fence sha ll be used to enclose an
OLLtdoor elecu-ical in stal lation lo deter access b)' persons who
are no t q ua lified. A fe nce sha ll not be less th a n 2.1 m (7 ft) in
height or a co mbination of 1.8 m (G ft) or more of fen ce fa.b1-ic
an d a 300 mm (J tl) o r more exLensio n uti lizi11g lhree or more
so-a nds of barbed wir e or eqLtivalen t. The di.stance from tl1e
fe nce Lo live parts shall he not less Lha.n given in Table 110.:~ I.
lnformationaJ No te: See Article ,150 for conw·uction requ ire-
rnenrs for transformer vau lrs.
{A) Electrical Vaults. Whe re a n electrical vault is required or
specified for condu ctors a nd equipme nt JI 0.31 (A) (1) to
(A)(5) shall apply.
(l ) Walls and Roof. 1l1e walls a nd roof shall be constructed of
U1ater ials tha t h ave adeq1.1ate structura l strengtJ, for the concli-
tio ns, wi.th a minimum fire rating of 3 hmll's. For tJ1.e p urpose
of tl1L5 section, studs a nd wall board consu·uction shall not be
permitted.
(2) Floors. The floors of vault5 in contact witli die earth sh al l
be of concrete tl1a.t is n()t less than I 02 mm (4 in.) t11ick, but
whe re the vaulL is constn1cLed witli a vaca.nL space or o th e1·
stories below it, die floor s ha ll have adequate structural
strength for the load imposed on iLa nd a minimum fire resisL-
ance of 3 h o urs.
(3) Doors. Each doo rway lea.ding into a vault fro m th e build-
ing interior shall be pro~ided with a tight-fi tting door that has a
min imum fire rating of 3 hou rs. The au th ority havingjurisdic-
Lio n sha ll be pe rmitted to requi re such a d oor fo r an exLerio r
wall o pening where conditions warran t.
l!.xrej>tion l.o ( 1 ), (2), and ( 3): Where the vault i,s f.rmtectPd with auto-
matfr spri.nkler, wal.er ,ij1my, car&on dioxide, fir halou, constrtlclifln
with rt 1-lwur mting shall he p,1rmiU1'd.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 11 0- REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS 110.31

Table ll0.28 Enclosure Selection

For Outdoor Use

Provides a Degree of Protection
Against the Following Enclosure Type Number
Environmental Conditions 3 3R 3S 3X 3RX 3SX 4 4X 6 6P
Incidental contact with the X X X X X X X X X X
encloscc.l eqttipnlC'nt
Ra in, snow, and sleet. X X X X X X X X X X
Sleet* X X
Windblown dtL,t X X X X X X X X
Hoscdown X X X X
Con-osive agents X X X X X
Temporary submersion X X
Prolouged submcrsiou X
Provides a Degree of Protection For Indoor Use
Against the Following
Environmental Conditions Enclosure Type Number
2 4 4X 5 6 6P L2 12K 13
Incident.al contact. with the X X X X X X X X X X
enc:losed equiprncnt
Falling d irt X X X X X X X X X X
Falling liquids and light X X X X X X X X X
s plashing
Circulating d ust, lj11t, fibers, X X X X X X X
and !Iyit1gs
Settli ng airborne dust, li n t, X X X X X X X X
fibers, and flyings
I-Ioscdown and splash ing water X X X X
O il aud coola11 t seepage X X X
Oil or coolant spraying and X
spl~bing
Corrosive agents X X
Tempor,u-y submersion X X
Prolonged sub,1,ersion X
*Mechanism shall be operable when ice covered.
Informational No 1e No. I: The cerm rain.tight is tY)lically used in coruunction wid1 EncloSLLre Types 3. 3S, 3SX, '.1X, 4, 4X, 6, and 6P. The term mfoproof
is typically LLsecl in co,~junction v,,ith Enclnsure Types 3R and 3RX. The Lerm watertight i.s typicall)' used in co1~junction wiLh Enclosure 1:vpes 4, 4)(. 6,
and 6 P. The term rlrif!tigltl is typically used in co,tjunction wi1.h E:nclosure Types 2, 5 . 12. 12K, and 13. The term d11slli{{ltl is cypically used in
conjunction wiLh Enclosure Types :I, 3S, :ISX, '.3X, 4, 4X, .~, 6, 6P, 12, 12K, and 13.
Informational Note No. 2! Ingress protection (LP) ratings may be found in ANSI/IE:C 60529, Degrusof Protection Pmvided try Enclosures. IP ratings are
nm a substitute for Enclosure Type racings.
Informational Note No. 3: Dust tight enclosures are suitable for use in hazardous lc,carions in accordance with 502.10(B)(4), 503. lO(Al (2), and
506.l!:i(C)(U).
Informational No1e No. 4: D1.1sttigh t enclosc1res are suitable for use in unclassified localions and in Class tr, Divisio n 2; Class UI.; and Zone 22
hazardous (classified) locations.

(4) Locks. Doors s hall be equipped with lock~, and doors sha.11 Table 110.31 Minimum Distance from Fence to Live Parts
be kept locked, with access allowed only to q ualified persons.
Personnel doors shall open in tl1e direction of egress and be Minimllill Distance to Live Parts
equipped with listed panic hardware or listed fire exit ha rd-
w,u-e. Nominal Voltage m ft

(5) Transformers. Where a u·amformer is inst.ailed in a vault I 001- 13, 799 3.05 JO
J 3,800- 230,000 4. .':i7 l.'i
as r equired by Article 450, the vault shal l be consO'ucted in
accordance witl1 the requirements of Part TII of Article 450. Over 230,000 5.49 18
Note: Fo r cle,u.rnces of co nductors for specific system voltage.:; anrl
Informational Nore No. l : For additional information, see
typical BIL ratings, see ANSI/ IEEE C2-201 7, Nrtlimw/ Efeclrical Sa{fly
ANSI/ ASTM E I1 9-20 I Sa, M11lhorl/Qr Fim Te.Sis of"Bnildiug ConstTUr-
Co([c.
eion and Materlalf, and N FPA 80-2019, Standanl for Fitf Doors mul
Ollu:r 0/1e11ing Piu/JitliVPs.
Informational Note No. 2: A typical ;}hour construction is
150 mm (6 in.) thick re in-fi;m;:ed c() ncreie.

2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 70-53

1 10.31 ARTICLE 110- REQUIREMENTS F'OR ELECTiliCAL INSTALLATIONS
(B) Indoor Installations.
(1) In Places Accessible to Unqualified Persons. Indoor elec-
trical installations that are accessible to unqualified person5
shall be made with metal-enclosed e quipment. Switchgear,
transformers, pull boxes, connection boxes, a nd oth e 1· similar
a5sociated e quipment shall be marked with appropria te caution
signs. Openings in ventilated d.ry-t-yp e transformers or similar
openings in othe1· equipment shall be designed so th at foreign
objects inserted th ro ugh these o pen ings are deflected from
energized parts.
(2) In Places Accessible to Qualified Persons Only. Indoor
electi-ical i.nstallacions considered accessible only to quali fied
persons in accordance with this section shall comply with
l 10.34, l 10.36, and 490.24.
(C) O utdoor Installations.
( 1) In Places Accessible lo Unqualified Persons. Outdoor elec-
trical installations that a.re open to unqualified pe rsons shall
comply with Parts I., IT, ,lnd UI of Article 225.
(2) In Places Accessible to Qualified Persons OnJy. Outdoor
elecu·ical installations that have exposed live part5 sha ll be
accessible to qualified pe,·sons only in accordance with d1e first
paragraph of this section a nd shall comply wid1 110.34, 110.36.
and 490.24.
(D) Enclosed Equipment Accessible to Unqualified Persons.
Ventilating or similar openi11gs in eq uipment shal l he designed
such that foreign o bjecL~ inserted throug h these openings are
deflecLed from energized parts. Whe,-e exposed to physical
damage from vehicular tsaffic, suitable guards sha ll be provi-
ded. Equipment located outdoors and accessible to unqualified
persons shall be designed su ch that exposed nuts o r bolts
cannot be readily removed, permitting access to live parts.
Where equipme nt is accessible to unqualified persons and the
bottom of the enclosme is less than 2.5 m (8 ft) ab ove the fl oor
or grade level, the enclosure door o r hinged cover sha ll be kept
locked. Doors and covers of e nclosures used solely as pull
boxes, splice boxes, or junction boxes shall be locked, bolted,
or screwed on . Underground box co vers that weigh over
45.4 kg ( 100 lb) shall be conside red ,is meeting this requi re-
1ne nl.
110.3 2 Work Space About Equipment. Si1fficient space s ha ll h e
provided a nd maintained abou t electrical equipment to permit
ready and safe operatio n and maintenance of such equipme nt.
\<\'here energized parts are exposed, the minimum clear work
space shall be not less than 2.0 m (6½ ft) h igh (measlU·ed verti-
cally from die noor o r platform) and the width of Lhe equip-
ment or 914 mm. (3 ft) wide (measured parallel to th e
equipme nt), whic hever is greater. The depd1 sha ll be as
required in 110.34(A). In all cases, the work space shall perm.it
at least a 90-degree opening of doors or hinged panels. Within
rJ1e he ight requirements of d1is sectio n, o ther equipme nt that
is associated wid1 the e lectrical installation and i.5 located above
or below the electrical equipment shall be permitted to extend
not more than 150 mm (6 in. ) beyond the front of the e lecu·i-
cal e quipment. Working space required by this section shall not
be used for storage. When normal.ly enclosed live parts are
exposed for inspection or servicing, the working space, if in a
passag·eway 01· general open space, sha ll be suitably g ua.i·ded.
70-54
110.33 Entrance to Enclosures and Access to Working Space.
(A) Entrance. At least one entrance to e n.closu1·es for elecu·ical
instal lations as described in ll0.31 not less than 610 mm
(24 in. ) wide and 2·. o m (6½ ft) high sha ll be provided to give
access to the working space a bolll electrical eq uipment.
(1) Large Equipment. On switchgear and conLrol pa nel~
exceeding 1.8 m (6 ft) in widtl1, tl1e re shaU be one e ntrance at
each end of the equipme nt. A single entrnn ce to the required
working space shall be pe rmitted where e ith e1· of the condi-
tions in l.10.33(A) (1) (a) o r (A) ( 1) (b ) is met.
(a) Unobst,w:ted Exit. Where tl1e location permit~ a
continuous and tU1obsu·ucted way of ex.it travel, a single
enu-ance to the working space shall be permitted.
(b) Exira Working Space. Whe,-e the depth of the worki ng
space is twice t hat required by l 10.34(A) , a single enu-a nce
shall be pe rmitted . It sh all be located so that the dist,ince from
the equipme nt to tl1e nearest edge of th e entrance is nor. less
than the minimum clear distance specified in Ta ble I l0.34(A)
for equipment open1ting at d1at voltage a nd in that condition.
(2) Guarding. Where bare energized pa rts at a ny voltage or
insulated energized parts a bove 1000 volt~, nominal, are loca-
ted adj acent to suc h entrance, they shall be suitably guarded.
(3) Personnel Doors. Wh ere ther e are personne l doors inte n-
ded for e nu-ance to and egress from the working space less
tl1an 7.6 m (25 fl) from the nearest edge of the working space,
the doors shall open i11 the direction of egress and be equipped
with listed panic ha rdware or lisLecl fire exit ha.i·dware.
(B) Access. Perma nent ladders or stairways sh all be provided
to give safe access to the wo1·king s pace around el.ecu·ical equip-
ment instal led on platforms, balconies, or mezzani.ne floors or
in attic o r roof rooms or spaces.
110.34 Work Space and Guarding.
(A) Working Space. Except as elsewh ere required or permitted
in this Code, equipment like ly to require examinatio n, adjust-
men t, servici.ng, o r maintenance while ene1·gized shall h ave
clear working space in the direcLion of access to live parts of
the e lectrical equipment a nd shal l he not less than specified in
Table l l0.34(A) . Distances sha ll be measu red from tJ1e live
parts, if such are exposed, o r from the enclosure fro nt or open-
ing if such are enclosed.
ExcejJtion: Wor/1ing sfiru;e shall not be required in back of equipment
SI.I.Ch as switchgear or control assemblies where lhere are no renewablt or
adjustable /1ar/s (such as fuses or switches) on the back and where all
wnnections are accessible fmm locations othrr than the badl. Where rl'.ar
access is mquirnl lo work on nondrct1i1:ol parts on the bark of rmtlosed
eqnipmenl, a minim11111. working spar.e of 762 mm (30 in.) h.01--i:z,ml.ally
slwll b~ provided.
(B) Separation from Low-Voltage Equipment. Where switches,
cuto uts. or other equipm enL operating at 1000 volts, no mina l,
or less are installed in a vaul t, room, o r enclosure where tl1ere
are exposed li.ve part~ or e xposed wiring operating a t over
1000 volts, nom ina l, the hig h-voltage equi pmen ohal l be effec-
tively separated from the space occupied by the low-voltage
equipment by a suitable partition, fence, or screen.
.ExrPj1tion: Switches or oi,her nr1tijmumt operating at 1000 volts, nmn.i-
nal, or ll'ss and se'IVing only r.quipmml. within, the high-llOltagf vault,
room, or endosure shall bf j)em1ittl'd to bf inslallPd in the high-voltage
vault, rornn, or enr;/nsare tvithout rt f1artition, Jenee, or screm if aci:essi-
blr to qualified fJl'rsons only.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 11 0 - REQUIREJvlENTS FOR ELECTIUCAL INSTALLATIONS 110.51

Table 110.34(A) Minimum Dep1h of Clear Working Space at {F) Protection of Service Equipment, Switchgear, and Indus-
Electrical Equipment trial Control Assemblies. Pipes or duct5 foreign to tl1e electri-
cal installatio n and requiring periodic maintenance 01- whose
Nominal Minimum Clear Distance malfunction would endan ger th e operation of the electrical
Voltage system shaU not be located in tl1e vic inity of the service equip-
to Ground Condition l Condition 2 Condition 3 ment.., switch gear, or industrial control assemblies. Protection
shall be provided where necessary to avoid d;;unage from
1001-2500 V !:JOO mm (3 ft) 1.2 m (·Ht) 1.5 Ill (5 ft) condensation leaks a nd breaks in such foreign system~. Piping
2501-9000 V l.2m(4ft) 1.5 rn (5 ft) 1.8 n, (6 ft) and other facil ities shaU not be consid ered foreign if provided
9001-25,000 V 1.5 Ill ( 5 ft) l.8 m (6 ft) 2.8 Ill (\J !'t) for fire protection of the electrical instaUation.
25,001 V-75 kV l.8 111 (6ft) 2.5 m (8 fl) 3.0 m (JO rt)
Above 75 kV 2.5 m (8ft) 3.() lTl (1() ft) 3.7 m ( 12 ft) 110.36 Circuit Conductors. Circuit conductors shall be perm.it-
ted to be installed in raceways; in cable trays; as metal-clad
Note: Whe re the conditions are as follows:
(l ) Condition I -.Exposed live pans on one sid e of rl1e working space
cable Type MC; as ba1·e wire, cable, a nd busbars; or as Type MV
and no live or g1·01.111ded pans on rJ,e orJ1er side or the working space,
cables or conductors as provided in 300.37, 300.39, 300.40, and
300.50. Bare live conductors shaU comply with 490.24.
o r exposed live pans on bo1h sides of the working space th at are
effectively guarded by insulating materials. Insulators_, togetl1er witJ1 the ir mounting and conductor
(2) Condition 2 - Exposed live parn on one s ide of the working space ,;1ttaclu11em s, where LL5ed as supports for wires, si11gle-conductor
anrl grounded parts on I he other side of the working space. Concrete, cabl es, t,r busbars, shall be capable of safely witl1standing the
brick, or tile walls shall he considered as grounded. maximum magnetic forces cha t would prevail if two or more
(3) Condition 3 - Exposed live part~ on both sides of the working conductors of a c ircuit were sul~ected to short-circuit current.
space.
Exposed runs of insulated wires and cables tl1at have a bare
lead sheath or a braided o uter covering sha ll be supported in a
(C) Locked Rooms or Ehclosures. The e n trance tO all build- manner d esigned to prevent physical damage to the bra id or
ings, vaults, rooms, or enclosures containing exposed live part~ sheath. Supports for lead-covered cables shall be designed to
or exposed conductors operating at over J 000 volts, nomi11al, prevent electrolysis of the sheatl1.
shall be kept locked unless such e ntrances are under the o bser-
vation ofa qualified person at all times. 110.40 Temperature Limitations at Terminations. Conductors
shall b e permiued to be terminated ba~ed on the !)0°C ( 194°F)
Permanent and conspicuous danger signs shaU be provided. temperature rating and ampac.ity as given in Table 31l.60(C)
The danger sign shall meet th e requirements in I 10.21 (B) and (67) through Table 3ll.60 (C) (86), Lmless o tJ1erwise identified.
shall read a5 follows:
110.41 Inspections and Tests.
DANGER - HTGHVOLTACE - KEEP OUT
(A) Pre-energization and Ope.rating Tests. Whe1·e required
(D) Illumination. mumination shall be provided for a ll work- elsewhere in tl1is Code, the complete e lecu·ical system des ign,
ing spaces about electrical equipment. Conu-ol by a utomatic including settings for protective, switch i11g, and control
means only shal l not be permitted. The lighting outlets shaJJ be circuits, shall be prepared in advance and made available on
ai:ranged so that. persons changing lamps or mak.in g repairs on request to the autho1-ity havingjurisrliction and shall be tested
d1e lig hti.ng system are not endangered by Live parts or other when first in.staUed on-site.
equipment.
(B) Test Report. A test report covering the results of tl1e tests
The points of control shall be located so that persons are n ot required in 110.41 (A) sh all be availa ble to tl,e autl101-iry having
likely to come in contact with any live part or moving pan of jw-isdictjon prior to energization and made available to tl10se
the eq uipment while turning o n the light5. authorized to install, operate, test, and ma in tai.n the system.
(E) Elevation of Unguarded Live Parts. Unguarded Jive parts
above working space shall be maintained at elevations not le5,~
Part IV. Tunnel Installations over 1000 Volts, Nominal
than required by Table 11 0.,H(E).
110.51 General.
(A) Covered. This part sha ll appl)' to the installation and use
of high-voltage power d istribution and utilizatio n equipment
Table l 10.34(E) Elevation of Unguarded Live Parts Above that is portable, mobil e, or bo tJ1, such a~ substations, trail ers,
Working Space cars, mobile shovels , draglines, hoists, drill5, dredges, compres-
sors, pumps, conveyors, underground excavators, and the like.
Elevation
Nominal Voltage,_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (B) Other Articles. The requirements of tl1is part sha ll be
additional to. or arnemla to 1·y of, those prescribed in Articles
Between Phases m ft
100 through 490 of this Code.
1001-7500 V 2.7 9
7501-35,000 V ~-!:) 9ft6 in. (C) Protection Against Physical Damage. Conductors and
Over 35 kV A dd 9.5 mm per kV Add 0.37i.n. per kV cables in trnmels shall be located a bove the t1.u me l floor and so
above 35 kV above 35 kV placed or guarded to protect them from physical damage.

2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 70-f,5

110.52 ARTICLE 110- REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTIUCAL INSTALLATIONS
110.52 Overcnrrent Protection. Motor-operated equipme nt
shall be protected from ove1·curre nt in accordance with Part5
III, IV, and V of Article 430. Transformers sh.all be p rote cted
from overcurrenr in accordance with. 450.3.
110.53 Conductors. High-voltage conductors in tunne ls s hall
be installed in meta l conduit or other metal rnceway, Type MC
cable, or o ther approved multicondu ctor cable. Multiconcluc-
Lo r portable cable shall he pe rm.irted to supply mobile equip-
ment.
110.54 Bonding and Equ.ipment Grounding Conductors.
(A) Grounded and Bonded. All non-curre nt-can-yi ng metal
parts of elecu-ical equipment and all m e tal raceways and cable
sheaths shall be solidly groLU1ded a nd bonded to all me tal pipes
and rails at the portal and at intervals not exceeding 300 m
(1000 ft) throughout the tunnel.
(B) Equipment Grounding Conductors. An equipment
grnunding conducto1· shall be 1·un with circuit conductors
inside the metal raceway or inside the multiconductor cable
jacket. The equipment grounding conductor sh all be permit-
ted to be insulated or bare.
110.55 Transformers, Switches, and Electrical Equipment. All
transformers, switches, mo tor conu·ollers. motors, rectifiers,
and other equipment installed belowground shall be protected
fro m physical damage b y location or guarding.
110.56 Energized Parts. Ba.re terminals of u, msfonners.
switches, motor cono·olle rs, and othe r equipment shall be
e nclosed to prevent accidental contact with e nergized parts.
110.57 Ventilation System Controls. Electrica l controls for the
venti lation system shall be arranged so that the airflow can be
reversed.
110.58 Disconnecting Means. A swi_rch or circuit breaker that
simultaneotL5ly opens a ll ungrounded conductors of the circuit
shall be installed with in sight of each transformer 01· motor
location for disconnecting the o-ansforme r or motor. The
switch or circuit breaker for a transformer sha ll have an
ampere rating not less than the ampacit)' of tJ1e transformer
supply conductors. The switch or c ircuit breaker for a n1.otor
shall comply with the applicable reqLtiremenL5 of Article 430.
110.59 Enclosures. Enclosures for u se in tunnels shall be drip-
proof, weatJ1erproo£; or subme rsible a-. required by the e nvi-
ronmental conditions. Switch or contactor e nclosures shall not
be used as junction boxes or as raceways for conductors fe ed-
ing tJ1rough o r tapping off to othe r switch es, unless the en clo-
Stires comply witJ1 312.8.
Parl V. Manholes and Otl1er Electrical Enclosures Intended
for Personnel Entry
110.70 General. Electrical e nclosures inte nded for personnel
e ntry and specifically fabricated for this purpose shall be of
sufficie nt size ro provide safe wo1·k space about e lectrical equip-
ment with live parts that is likely to r equire examination, adjust-
ment, servicing, or maintenance while energized. Such
enclosures shall have sufficient s ize to permit ready instal lation
or withdrawal of the conductors employed without da mage to
the conductors o r to tJ1ei.r insulation. 111.ey sha ll comply wi th
this part.
70-!ifi
Exci>fllion: Whl're electrical enclosures covered by Part V of this artirle
r1re part <if (In indmtrial wi1·ing ;ystem operating under m11ditiorrs of
rn.ainterr.cmce and s·uperuision that ensure that only qualiji,Pd pe1;mm
monitor a.nrl sufm,.JisP th,, system, they shall be fJPm1iUer.l to be designed
and installed in accordance wilh npproprialt rngineering jm1ctice. If
mquirrrl by lite r.111lho1ity having jmisdictirm, rlr:sign do1wr11mtation
shall /J,, fmwided.
110.71 Strength. Manholes, vaulL5, and their means of access
shall be de.signed unde r qualified e ngin eering supervisio n and
sha ll withstand all load~ likely to be imposed 011 the su-uctures.
Informatio nal No1e: See ANSI C2-20()i, National Eleclrlml Srfely
Codi!, for additional info rma tio n o n (he loading Lhar can be
expected LO bear o n underground e nclosu res.
110.72 Cabling Work Space. A dear work space not less than
900 mm (3 ft) wide shall. be provided where cables are located
on both sides, and no t less than 750 mm (2½ ft) where cables
are o nly on one side. The vertical headroom shall be not less
than 1.8 m (G ft) unless the open ing is within 300 mm ( 1 fr),
measured ho1izontaJly, of the adjacent interio1· side wall of the
enclosm·e.
Excej1tion: A manhole mnltiining only on,, or 11!011' of thr following
shall he perm.it/ea I0 have ont of the horizontal worh spare dirnensiom
reduced to 600 mm (2 fl) where the other horizontal dear wm-/: space is
incrrased so the IWn of the two dimensions is not less than I.8 111 ( 6 fl):
(l ) Optical film· rables as cover/id in A rtide 770
(2) Pmuei•limiled fire alarm tircuils supplie,t in accordance tuitlt
760.121
( 3) Class 2 or Class 3 rernotf-i:Onlrol and signaling circuils, or bot.h,
supplied in r.u:conhince with 725.121
110.73 Equ.ipment Work Space. Where elecu·ical e quipment
with live parts that is likely to require exam.ination, adjustment,
servic ing, or maintenance whi le e nergized is instal led in a
manhole, vault, or other enclosm·e d esig ned for personne l
access, the work spate and associated requirements in JI 0.26
shall be met for installations operating at 1000 volts or less.
'"' her e the installa tion is over 1000 volt5, the work space and
associated requirement~ in 110.34 shall be met. A ma nhole
access cover that weighs over 45.4 kg (100 lb) shall be consid-
ered as meeting the 1-equire ments of 11 0.34(C).
110.74 Conductor Installation. Conductors installed in
manh oles and other e nclosures intended for personnel enu)'
shall be cabled, racked up, or a rranged in an approved manne1·
that provides ready and safe access for pe1·sons to enter for
installation and maintenan ce. The insta lla tion shalJ comply
with ll0.74(A) or l 10.74(B), as applicable.
(A) 1000 Volts, Nominal, or Less. Wire be nding space for
conductors operating at JO00 volts or less sha ll be provided in
accordance with the requirements o f 3 l 4.28.
(B) Over 1000 Vohs, Nominal. Conductors o perating a t over
1000 volts shall be provided with bending space in accordance
with 314 .71 (A) and (B), as a pplicable.
ExrPJ>lion: " 'lwrP 314. 71(B ) applies, eath row or column of dtwts on
one wall of Ote m/Jlosure shall be ral1:ulated inriivitlttally, and the
single row or column /hat fn-oviries lhP maximum distance shall be
used.
110.75 Access lo Manholes.
(A) Dimensions. Rectangular access ope nings shall no t be less
than 650 mm x 550 mm (26 in. x 22 in.) . Round access o pen-
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020 Edition
 ARTfCLE 11 0- REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS
ings in a manhole sha ll he not less tha n 650 mm (26 i.n. ) in
d iameter.
Exception: A rnrmhole that has fl fixed laddn· thrrt does nol obstnu;J the
op,m-i.ng or that contains only one or mrn·e of lhf. following shall be
permillnl to reduce tllf rninirrmrn wver diamP/.ttr to 600 rnrn (2 fl):
( 1) Oplica,l fibn· cables ar covered in Article 770
(2) Powe1°limitfd fire alarm r·hrnits supplifd in accmrlanCf with
760. 12 1
(3) Class 2 or Class 3 renwte-contml ancl signuling cin;uils, or both,
supplied in accordance with 725. 121
(B) Obstructions. Manhole ope nings shall be free o f pro n·u-
sio ns that could injure pe rsonne l 01· prevent ready egress.
(C) Location. Manhole o penings fo r personnel shall be loca-
ted wh e re th ey are n o t d ire ctly above ele cn·ical equipme n t o r
condu ctors in the e nclosu re. Whe re this j s not practicable ,
eitl1er a pro tective barrie r or a fixed ladder shall be p rovided.
(D) Covers. Covers shall be over 4fi kg (HI() lb) or o tl1en ~ise
designed to re quire the LL5e of too l5 to o pe n. T h ey sha ll be
designed or restrained so tlley canno t fall into the manhole o r
prnn·ude su fficie ntly to contact electrical condu ctors or equip-
me nt w ithin the 111.anh ole.
(E) Marking. Manhole covers sh a ll have a n iden tifying m ark
or logo that prominently indicates tl1eir functio n, sud 1 as "elec-
u-ic."
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL E LECTRICAL CODE
110.79
110.76 Access to VauJts and TunneJs.
(A) Location. Access o penings for personne l shall be located
wh ere tlley ru·e no t d irectly above e lect1i cal equipmen t OT
cond uctors in the e nclosure . Otlle r o pe nings shall be pe rmit-
ted over equipme nt to fac ilitate instal la tio n , ma intena nce, o r
replacement of e quipment.
(B) Locks. Tn adilition to complian ce with the re quire me n ts of
110.34, if applicable, access o pen ings for personnel sha ll be
a.n-an ged such tha t a person o n the inside cru1 exit when tl1.e
access doo r i,.~ locked fro m the outs ide, or in the case of
no rn1ally locking by padlock, tl1.e locking arra ngemen t shall be
such that the padlock can be closed on the locking syste m to
preven L locking from the o ut~ide .
110.77 Ventilation. Whe re ma nholes, tunnels, and vaults have
communicating op e nings into e nclosed are as used b y the
public, ventilatio n to open a ir sh all be provided whe rever prac-
t icable.
110.78 Guarding. v\7h ere con d uctors o r equipm ent, or both ,
cQuld be contacted by o bject~ falling or be ing pushed t hrough
a ventilatiJ1g grating, both co nd uctors a nd live part~ sh a ll be
p rotected iJ1 accordance wi tl1 the requirements of J l0.27(A)
(2) o r II0.3 l (B)( l ), de penilingon the voltage .
110.79 Fixed Ladders. Fixed lad der s sh all be co rrosion resist-
ant.
70-57
CHAPTER 2 ARTICLE 200- USE AND fDENTIFICAT ION OF GROUNDED CONDUCTORS
Chapter 2 Wiring and Protection
ARTICLE200
Use and Identification of Grounded
Conductors
200.1 Scope. This article provides requirements fort.he follow-
ing:
(1) Ide ntification of terminals
(2) Grounded conductors in premises wiring systems
(3) Identification of grounded conductors
In fo rmatio nal Note: See Article 100 for definitions of Crom,de/t
Con(l11-rto1; .equipment Orom,ding C',,md'llclm; and Oro11ndil1g E/,;ctrorlr
G'ond1u:to1:
200.2 General. Grounded conductors shall comply
200.2(A) and (B).
(A) Insulatio n. The grounded conductor, if insulated, shall
have insulation that is ( I) suitable, other than color, for any
ungrounded conductor of the same circuit fo r sy~tems of
1000 volts or less, or impedance grounded neutJ.·,l l systems of
over 1000 volts, or (2) rated not less than 600 volt~ for solidly
grounded .neutral systems of over I 000 volts as described in
2.'i0.184(A).
(B) Co ntinuity. The continuity of a grot.mded conductor shall
not depend on a connection to a metallic enclosure, raceway,
o r cable armor.
lnfo nmuional Nore: See 300.l3(B) for Lhe conrjnuity or groun-
ded conduclors used in mu.lliwire branch circui ts.
2 00.3 Connection to Grnunded Sys tem, Grounded conductors
of premises wiring systems shall be electrically connected to the
supply system grounded conductor to ensure a common,
continuous grou nded system. For the purpose of this section,
elPctricrtlly connected shall mean making a direct e lectrical
connection capable of carrying current. as distinguished from
induced cmrents.
Exceplion: Listed fr1.tl!rartivl' invertn:s identified for LISP. in distrilnllrd
rrsowre g1mmntion !fJSl.nns ~Ul'lt. as photovoltaic and fi.wl eel/, f1ower
sy.wms shall IHi /iermittel/ to be connP.cted Lo premises tviring with.out a
gnnmded rnndw;tnr if the connected premises tuiring or utility system
includes a grrnmded conduclm:
200.4 N eutral Conductors. Neuu·al conductors shall
installe d in accordance with 200.4(A) and (B) .
(A) Installation. Neutral conductors shall not be lL5ed for
more than one branch circuit, for more than one mulliwi.re
branch circuit, or for more than one set of ungrnunded feeder
conductors unless specifically permitted elsewh ere in this Corle.
(B) Multiple Circuits. Where more than o ne neutral conduc-
t.or associated with different c.ircuit5 is in an enclosure, g roun-
ded circuit conductors of each circuit shall be ide ntified or
grouped to correspond with the ungrounded circuit conduc-
tor(s) by wire markers, cable ties, or sim ilar means in at lea~t
o ne location within the e nclosure.
70-58
Ewi,ption No. I: The requirement for grouping or identifying shall not
aptJly if the branch-circuit or feeder conductm:~ enter Ji-om a mble (rr a
rai:1Jwa:y uniquf tn the rimuit that rnalies tht gnntping obvious.
Exre/>Lion No. 2: Thr requirement Jiir gnmping or irl1mtifying shall not
apply where br(l.m:h-cirruit conrl-uctors /Jass through a box or co11du.it
body without a loop as rlemiberl in 314.16(8)(1) orwitluml a splice or
termination.
200.6 Means o f Identifying Grounded Conductors.
(A) Sizes 6 AWG or Smaller. An irm.tlated grounded conduc-
tor of 6 AV1IG o r smaller shal l be identified by one of the f-o llow-
ing means:
( I) T he insulated conductor shall have a continuous white
outer finish.
(2) The insulated conducto,- shall have a con tinuous g ray
with outer fi n.ish.
(3) The insulated conductor shall have three continuous
white or gray stripes along the conductor's entire length
on other th an green insu lation.
(4) Insulated conductors that have the ir o uter covering
finished to show a white or gray color but have colored
u-acer threads in the braid idemifying the source of
mamtfacture are acceptable means of identification .
(5) A single-conducto1~ sunlig ht-resistant.. outdoor-rated cable
used as a solidly grounded conductor in photovoltaic
power systems, as permitted by 690.41, shall be identified
at the time of installation by markings at terminations in
accordance with 200.fi(A) (J ) through (A) ( 4) .
(6) The grounded conductor of a mineral-insulated, metal-
sheathed cable (Type Ml) sha ll be identified at the rime
of installation by d istinctive marking aL its terminations.
(7) Fixture wire shall comply with the requiremenL~ for
groLmdecl conductor identification as specified in 402.8.
(8) For aerial cable, the identificarjon shall comply with one
of the methods in 200.6(A)(l) th rough (A)(5), or by
means of a ridge located on the exterior of the cable so a~
to identify it.
(B) Sizes 4 AWG or Larger. An insulated grounded conductor
4 AWG or large1· shall be identified by one of the following
means:
(1) A continuous white outer fi n ish .
(2) A continuot.L5 g ray outer finish .
(3) Three continuous wh ite or gray stripes along the conduc-
tor's entire length o n other than green insu lation.
be
(4) AL the time of instal lation, by a distinctive white or g ray
marking at its term inations. This marking sha ll enc ircle
d1e conductor or insulation.
(C) Flexible Cords . An insulated conducto,- that is imended
for LL5e ai, a grcmnded conductor, where contained withi n a
flexible cord, sha ll be idemified by a white or gray outer finish
or by methods permitted by 400.22.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 200- USE AND IDENTIFICATION OF GROUNDED CONDUCTORS
(D) Grounded Conductors of Different Syste ms. Where
grounded conductors of d iffe1·ent systems are installed in the
same raceway, cable, box, aLLxiliary guller, or other type of
enclosure, each grounded conductor shall be identified by
system. Ide ntification that distinguishes each system grow1ded
conductor shall be permitted by one of the fo llowing means:
( 1) O ne system grounded conductor shall have an ouler
cove1·ing conforming to 200.6(A) or (B) .
(2) The grounded concluctor(s) of olher syste ms shall have a
different outer covering conforming to 200.6(A) o r
200.6( B) or by an outer covering of white or gray wi1.h a
readily disti.nguishable colored stripe other than green
running a lo ng the insulation.
(3) Other and different means of identification allowed by
200.6(A) or (B) shall distinguish each system grounded
conductor.
The means of ide ntification sha ll be docmnented in a
mam1er that is readily available or shall he permanently posted
where the conductors of differenL systems o riginate.
(E) Grounded Conductors of Multiconductor CabJes. The
insulated grounded conductor(s) in a multiconductor cable
shaJI be identified by a continuous white or gray outer finish o r
by three continuous white or gray stripes o n other than green
insulation a long its entire length . For conductors that are 4
AWG or larger in cables, identification of the grow1ded
Cl) nductor shall be permitted to comply with 200.6(B). For
multiconductor flat cable with cond uctors that are 4 AWG o r
larger, an external ridge shall be permitted to ickntify the
g rounded cond ucto1:
Excrption No. 1: Conductm:t with.in rnulticonductor cables shalt be
pr:rmitled lo /Jp rr-irl!!ntifir,rt nt their tirrminations at the tinw of instnlta-
tion by a distiru;tivt white ar gray rnm'hing or other equal!J ejfr'r.t.ivt
'lnf'111lS.
Excef>tion No. 2: The grounded cond'I.Lctor of a multii:1m.ductor
vamisherl-cloth-insulalNl cable shnll be /Jenni/ te,t to be identified a:t its
t1<r111inations at the time of 'mstallatio11 by rt rlisti111;tive while marking
or other equally effective means.
Informational Nore: The color gray may have been used in the
pasL a;; an ungrounded conductor. Care ~hould be 1.aken when
working on existing ysLems.
200.7 Use of Insulation of a White or Gray Color or with
Three Continuous White or Gray Stripes.
(A) General. The following shall be used only fo1· the groun-
ded circLtit conductor, unless otherwise permitted in 200.7(B)
and (C) :
(l) A conductor with continuo us white or g ray covering
(2) A conductor with th ree continuous white or grn.y stripes
on other than green insulation
(3) A markiJ1g of white or gray color at the termination
(B) Circuits of Less Than 50 Volts. A conductor with wh ite o r
gra)' color insulation or three co11tinuo11s white stripes or
having a marking of white o r gray at the termination for
circuits of less than .50 volts shall be required to be grounded
only as required by 250.20(A).
(C) Circuits of 50 VoJts or More. The use of insulation that is
white or gray o r thal has three continuous white or gray stripes
for other than a grounded conductor for circuits of 50 volts or
more shall be permi creel only as in ( I ) and (2).
2020 ll\lirion NATIONAL E LECTRICAL CODE
200.10
( I) If part of a cable assern bly that has the insulation perma-
nently reidentified to indicate it~ use as an ungrounded
conductor by marking tape, painting, or o ther effective
means at its termination and at each location wh ere the
conductor is visible a nd accessible. Iden tification sh al l
e ncircle the insulation and sha ll be a color o ther than
white, gray, or green. If used fo.r $ingle-pole, 3-way or
4-wa)' switch loop s, the reidentifi ed conductor with white
0 1· gray insulatio n 0 1- three conti11uous wh ite or g ray
stripes shall be used only for tl1 e suppl)' to the switd1, but
not as a return conductor from the switch co U1e outlet.
(2) A fl exible cord having one conductor identified by a
white or gray ol.ller finish or three continuous white o r
g ra)' stripes, or by a ny other m eans permitted by 4-00.22,
tl1at is tL5ed for connecting an applian ce or equipment
pe rmitted by 400. l 0. Th is shall a pply to flexible cords
connected to outleL5 wheth_e r o r not the outlet is suppli ed
by a circuit that has a grow1ded conduc tor.
Informational Nme: T he color gray may have been Ltsed in the
past as an ungrounded conducto ,: Care s hould be mken whe n
working o n existing sysLems.
200.9 Means of Identification of Terminals. In devices or
u tilizatio n equipme nt with polarized connections, identifica-
tion of lerminaJs to which a grounded conductor is to be
connected shall be substantially wh ite or silver in color. The
identification of otl1 er tenn inaJs shaJl be of a readily d isti.n-
g1.1ishable different colo r.
Exception: Whae the ronditions of maintmana and supervision
enswre that only qMlijied /1ersrms servire the in.'ila.llatians, tl'l'nunalr
for gn:mnded conductors shal.l be permitted lo be permanently identified
at the tirne of installnlion by a distinctive white marking or 0//11,r
eq1ially ejfective mPans.
200.10 Identification of Terminals.
(A) Device Terminals. All devices, excluding pane lboards,
provided witJ1 terminal5 for the attachmenl of conductors and
intended for corrnection to more tJ1an one side of the c ircuit
shall have terminals prope rly marked for identificalion, unless
the electrical connection of the termjna l intended lO be
connected to the grounded conductor is clearly evident.
Excr,ptitm: Tenninal identification shall not bP required for deuices lhitt
haue a normal rnrrent rating of over 30 am/>eres, other than polari:z.erl
rittadirnenl plt 1g~ and /JOlarized receplades for attachment j1lngs flS
requ,ired in W0.J0(B).
(B) Receptacles, Plugs, and Connectors. Receptacles, polar-
ized attachme nl plugs, a nd cord connectors for plugs and
polarized plug·s shaJI have the terminal intended for connec-
tion to the grounded cond uctor identified as follows:
( 1) l denlification shall b e hy a metal Qr metal coating tl1a t is
substantially white or silver in colo1· or by the word
"white" or the letter "Vv' located adj acent to the identi-
fied term.inal.
(2) If the terminal is not visibl e, the conduc tor e ntrance hole
for the connection shall be colored white or marked with
the word "white"' o r the letter ''W."
Informational Nme: See 2!i0. J26 for ide milicatio n of wiring
device equipm e ll r grounding conducto r rerminals.
(C) Screw Shells. For devices witJ1 screw shells, the terminal
for tl1e grounded conductor shaJ l be the one connected to the
screw shell.
70-59
200.10 ARTICLE 210- BRANCH CIRCUITS

(D) Screw Shell Devices with Leads. For screw she l.l devices
with attached leads, the conductor attached to the screw shell
shall have a white or gr:ay finish. The outer finish of the other
conductor shall be of a solid color that will not be confused
with the white or gray finish used to identify 1.he g rounded
conductor.
Informational Note: The color gray may have been usi;d in the
past as an ungrounded cond11cror. Ca.re should be taken when
wor'king on existing sys1ems.
(E) Appliances. Appliances that have a single-pole switch or a
single-pole overcurrenl. device in the line or any line-connected
screw shell lampho lders, and that are to be connected by (1) a
permanent wiring met.hod or (2) field-installed attachment
plugs and cords with three or more wires (including the equip-
menl. grounding con.duel.or), shall have means to identify the
terminal for tJ1e grounded circuit conductor (if any).
200.l l Polarity of Connections. No grounded conductor shaU
be attached to any rermi1ial or lead so a~ to reverse the designa-
ted polarity.
210.4 Multiwire Branch Ci.i-cwts.
(A) General. Branc h circuits recognized by thi~ article shall be
permitted as mltltiwi.re circuits. A multiwire circuit shall be
permiued lo be considered a5 mulliple circ uits. All conductors
of a multiwire brancl1 circuit sha ll originate from the same
panelboard or similar distribution equipmenl..
Informational Note No. 1: A 3-phase, 4.-wire, wye-<:onnected
power system used ro suppl)' power to nonlinear loads ma~
necessitate that Lhe power system d esign a llow ror the possibility
of high hanuonic currenis on the nemral conducwr.
Informational Note No. 2: See 300.l 3 (8) for cnntinuicy of
grounded cond11ctors on mu!tiwi re ci rcu iL~-
(B) Disconnecting Means. Each multiwi.re branch c ircuit shall
be provided with a mearrn that will simultaneously disconnect
all ungrounded conductors at the point where the branch
c ircuil. originates.
Informational Note: See 240.15 (B) for information on the use
of single-pole circuit breakers, a5 the disconnecting means.

(C) Line-to Neutral Loads. Multiwire brancl1 circuits shall

0

supply o nly li ne-to-neutral loads.

l!.'xi:.ption No. 1: A mnUiwirr branch cin;uit thal S'1tf>plies only 011P
ulilb.nlirm 1'quipmenl.
ARTICLE 210
E-,;ce/J/ion No. 2: Where all ungtnunderl cnndi1dor.r of the rmiltiwirf
Branch Circuits branch ci1ritit are n,penerl simultlmPmtsly by 1h11 bmnch-drmil ovrrcu, 0

rent rievicP.
Part I. General Provisions (D) Grouping. The ungrounded and g1-ounded c ircuit
conducto1-s of each multiwire branc h cit-cLtit shal I be grnu ped
210.1 Scope. This article provides the general requirement~
in accordance with 200.4(B).
for branch circuit~.
210.5 Identification for Branch Circuits.
210.3 Other Articles for Specific-Purpose Branch Circujts.
Table 210.3 list~ references for specific equipment and applica- (A) Grounded Conductor. The grotu1ded con c;htcl.or of a
1.ions not located in Chapters 5, 6, a11d 7 tl1a1. amend or suppl e- branch circuit shall be identified in accordance with 200.6.
ment the requirements oftl1is article.
(B) Equipment Groundmg Conductor. The equip1nent
grow1ding conductor shall be identified in accordance with
250.119.
(C) Identification of Ungrounded Conductors. UngroLmded
conductors shall be identified in accord,rnce with 210.5(C) (] )
Table 210.3 Specific-Purpose Branch Circuits
or (2), as applicable .
Equipment Article Section (1) Branch Circuits Supplied from More Than One Nominal
Voltage System. Where the premises wiring system has bra nch
Air-conditioning anrl •140.6, 440.3],
circu it5 supplied from more thai1 one nominal voltage syste m,
refrigerating equipment 440.32 each ung rounded conduc;1.o r of a branch circ uit shall he identi-
Busways 368.17 fied by phase or Lin e a.nd by system voltage class at a ll termina-
Central heating equipment 422.12
tion, connection, and splice points in compliance with
<1ther than fixed e lecti-ic
210.5(C) ( 1) (a) and (b ). Different systems within the same
sp ace-healing equipment
premi~es that hrwe the same system voltage class shall be
Fixed clcc:tric heating 427.4
permitted to u se tl1e same identification.
eq uipmen t for pipeline,
(a) Means <rf identification. T he means of identification
and vcsseb
shall be pe1-mitted to be by sepai-ate color coding, marking
Fixed electric s pacc-hca1.i,,g 424.3
tape, 1.agging, or other approved mean s.
eq uipme nt
(b) Posting of ldentijicatirm Means. The method utilized for
Fixed o utdoor elecuical 426.4
conductors origiJ1al.ing within each brai1ch-circuit pane lboa rd
deicing and snow-melting
or similar brai1ch-circuit distribution eqttipment shall be docu-
equipment
mented in a manner that i.~ readily available or shall be perma-
Infrared lamp industria l 422.48, 424.3
nently posted at eac·h branch-circuit panelboard or similar
h eating equipment
branch-circ uit distt·ihution equipment. The label shall be of
:vlolors, mot.or circuits, and 430
sufficient durability to withstand tl1e environment invo lved and
controllers
408.52 shal.l not he handwritte n.
S1,~tchbo<1rds and '])anelboards

70-60 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition

 ARTIC LE 2J O- BRANCH CIRCUITS
Exception: In eJdsting install«tiom tvhe:rl' a voltage systern(.t) already
e,xisls and rt difjPrent voltage syslem is bPing added, ii s/t(lll be pennissi-
ble lo marh only the -new system vollage. Existing unidentified syslems
shall not be requin,d to be identified al each termination, connection,
and s/1licP point in compliance with 2 / 0.5(C)(l)(a) and (h). Ln,beling
.ihall br, required at mrh voltng/1 systmn distriln1tion equi/nnent to iden-
tify that only one voltage system has been rnarfled for n new systnn(s).
ThP new system lr1bel(s) shctll includr, the words "olht!r unidentified
systems exist on thl' /m•mises. "
(2) Branch Circuits Supplied from Direct-Current Systems.
·whe re a bran ch ci rcuit is supplied from a de system ope rating
at mo re tha n 60 volts, each ung rom1de d conductor of 4 AWG
o r larger shall be idenl.ified by polarity at all termina l.io n ,
connection, and splice poin~ by ma rking ta pe, tagging, o r
o ther a pproved means; each ungrounde d conduc to r of (j AWG
or smaller sh all be ide ntified hy polarity at all te rminatio n,
connection, a nd splice point5 in complian ce with
2 I0.5(C) (2) (a) and (b) . The ide ntificatio n me tJH)dS utilized
for conductors o rigina ting within each bran ch-circuit pane l-
board o r simihu- bran ch-circuj t di5tributio n e quipme nt shall be
docume nte d in a ma nner that ~~ readil)' available o r shall be
pe rmane ntly posted at each bran ch-circuit panelboard or simi-
la r branch-circuit dist1·ib1.1tio11 equipmen t.
(a) Positive Polarity, Sizes 6 A WC ar S1nalle1: Where the posi-
tive p ola rity of a de syste m does not serve as the connection
po int for the gro unded conducto 1~ each positive ungrounded
conductor shall be identified by on e of the fo llowi ng means:
( 1) A continuous redome rfinish
(2) A continuou s red stripe durably 1mu·kecl a lo ng the
conductor's e ntire lengtl, on insula tion of a color other
than g reen , white, gray, or black
(3) lmp1inted plus signs (+) o r tl1e word POSITIVE o r POS
dura bly ma rke d o n insulation of a colo1· oth er than
g reen , white, gray, or black and re peated at inte rvals no t
exceeding 610 mm (24 in.) in accordance with 310.S(B)
( 4) An approved permane nt marking mea ns su c h as sleeving
or sh.rink-tubing th a t is suitable for the conductor size, a t
qll termination, connen io n , a nd splice po ints, wit!,
imprinted plus sign s (+) o r the word POSITrvE o r POS
durably marke d on insulation o f a color o ther tha n
green , white, gray, or black
(b) Negative Polarity, Sizes 6 A WG or S111.alle1: Wh ere tJ1e
negative polarity o f a de system does no t serve a~ th e co nne c-
tion po in t fo r the g ro w1ded conclucto 1~ each negative ung ro un-
ded conducto r shall be ide ntified by o ne of Lhe followin g
mean s:
( 1) A conLinuous black outer fini sh
(2) A conl.inuo us black su·ipe dm'ably ma rked alo ng the
cond uctor's e nti re le ngtl1 on insulation of a color o ther
tl1a.n g ree n, white, gray, or red
(3) Imprinted minus sig ns (-) or tl1e word NEGATNE or
NEG d mably marked o n insulatio n of a colo r otJ1e1· tha n
g reen, white, gray, or red and repeated at inter vaL5 n ot
exceeding 6 10 mm (24 in .) in accorda nce with 310.8(B)
(4) A..n ap proved pe rmanent marking means suc h as sleeving
or sh rink-n.1bi.ng tha t: is suitable for the conductor size, at
all termi nation, conn ecri o n, and splice po in ts, with
im printed minus signs (-) o r the word NEGAT[VE o r
NEG durably ma rked o n insula tio n of a colo r other than
green , whi te, gray, or reel
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL £ LllCTRICAL CODE
210.6
210.6 Branch-Circuit Voltage Limitations. The no minal voltage
of branch circui t~ shall not exceed the values pe rmitt ed by
210.fi (A) tlu-oug h (E) .
(A) Occupancy Limitation. In dwelling units an d g uest rooms
o r guest suites of hotels, mote ls, a nd simila r occupa ncies, the
voltage shall n ot exceed 120 volts, n o mina l, be tween conduc-
tors that supply Lhe tenn i na ls of tl,e foll owing:
(J ) Lurninafres
(2) Cord-and-plug-connec ted loads 1440 volt-amperes, nomi-
nal, or less o r less tban 1/, hp
(B) 120 Volts Between Conductors. Circuits not exceeding
120 volts, nominal, between conductors sh all be pennitte d to
supply the fo llowing:
(J) The terminals of lampholde rs applied within tl1e ir voltage
ratings
(2 ) Auxil ia1)' eg ui pment of elecu·ic-clischa rge lamps
Information a l Note: See 410. 137 f'or awdJiary equ ipme111 limita•
rions.
(3) Cord-and-plug-connected or permaJ1 ently co1rnected
utili zal.io n e quipme nt
(C) 277 Volts to Ground. Circuits exceed ing 120 volt~, no mi-
na l, be twe en co nductors but no t exceeding 277 vol t5, no mina l,
to g round sha ll be permitted to supply cord-and-plug-
co nnecte d o r perma ne ntly connected util izati on egLLipme nt, o r
the following types of IL~ted lm1tina'ires:
(l ) Electric-discha rge lumina ire~ witl1 integral ba llasts
(2) LED luminaires witJ1 LED drivers bee-ween the bra nch
circuit a nd tl1e la mpholders
(3 ) Incandescent or LED lumina ires, equipped with medium-
base o r smaller screw she ll lampholders, whe re the la mp-
holders are supplied at 120 volts o r less from tl1e output
of a ste pdown autou·a nsform e1; LED driver, or oth e r type
of p ower supply tl1at is a n integral compo ne nt of the
luminaire
ln!ormaLio na l Note: See 410.90 for requiremen ts regarding the
connect.ion of screw sh e ll lampholders to grounded conducto rs.
(4) Luminaires e quipped with mogul-base screw sh ell la mp•
holders
(5) Luminaires equipped with la mpholders, otl1e r than the
screw sh ell type, whe n u sed within tl1eir voltage ratings of
tl,eir la mpholders
(6) Luminai res witl1out la.mp holders
Informatio na l No1e: Luminaires wid1 no nserviceable LEDs a re
examples of ILm1inalres withow lampho lrlers.
(7) Auxilia ry equipment of e lectric-discha rge o r LED-type
la mps
Informatio na l Noce: See 410. 137 f'o r auxiliary eq u ipmen t limita•
Lions.
(8) Luminai res converted witl1 listed retrofit kits incorpo rat-
ing integral LED lig ht som·ces or accepting LED lamps
tl1at also con.fo rm5 witl1 210.6(C) (J ), (C) (2), (C) (3), (C)
(4), or (C) (5)
70-61
210.6 ARTICLE 210- BRANCH CIRCUITS
(D) 600 Volts Between Conductors. Circuits exceeding
277 volt~, nominal, to ground a nd not exceeding 600 volts,
non1inal, b enveen conductors shall be permitted to supply the
fo llowing:
(1) The arndlia ry equipm.ent of elecu-ic-clischarge la mps
mounted in permanently installed lumina ires where the
luminaires are mo unted in accordance witl1 one of the
following:
a. Not less than a height of 6.7 m (22 ft) on poles or
similar sn-ucLUres for tl1e illumination of outdoor
areas su c h as. highways, road~, bridges, athletic fields,
o r parking lot~
b. Not less tha n a heig ht of 5.5 m ( 18 ft) on other srruc-
tures such as tunnels
ln forma1jonal Note: See 410. 137 for auxiliary equipmen t
limi tations.
(2) Cord-and-plug-connected or permanently connected
utilization equipment other than luminaires
(3) Luminaire.~ powered from direct-curre nt systems where
eimer of the followi11g apply:
a. The luminaire contains a listed, de-rated ballast mat
provides isolation be l"\vee n the de power source and
the lamp circuit and prmection li·om electric sh ock
whe11 c ha.ngi ng lamps.
b. The luminair·e contains a listed, dc-nlted ballast a nd
has no provision for changing lamps.
Excef>lion No. 1 to (B). (C), rmrl (D): For larnpholders of infrared
indiistrial heating a/Jpfiances r1s provided in 425.14.
Excrption No. 2 to (B ), (C), and (D ): For railru1iy profH1rlies ris
descri.bed in 11 0.19.
(E) Over 600 Volts Between Conductors. Circuits exceeding
600 volts, no mina l, between conductors shall be permitted to
suppl y utilizatio n equipment in installations where conditions
of maintenance and supervision ensure tl1al only qualified
persons .~ervice tJ1e instal lation.
210.7 Multiple Branch Circuits. Where two or more branch
circuits supply devices o r e quipment on me sam e yoke or
mowHing stra p, a means to simultaneously disconnec t the
ungTOLmded supply conductors sha ll be provided at the point
at which the branch circuits 01-iginate.
210.8 Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Person-
nel. Ground-fault c ircuit-interrupter protectio n for personn el
shall be provided as required in 2 10.8(A) throug h (F ). The
grow1d-faull circ uil interrupte r sha ll be installed in a readily
accessible location .
Informational Note No. 1: See 215.9 for ground-faLtlt circuit.-
interrupte r protection for personnel o n feeders.
Informational Note No. 2: See 4225(A) fo r GFCl requfrernems
for appliances.
Informational Note Nn. 3: See 555.9 fo r GFCI reqLLiremen rs for
boat ho ists.
l.nfonnational Nme No. 4: Additional GFC I require rn enL~ for
specific circuit,~- and equipme m are contained in Ch apters 4. 5,
a nd 6 .
70-62
Fo r the purposes of this sectio n, when determini11g tJ1e
d istance from rece ptacles the distance shall be measured as the
s hortest patl1 the supply cord of an appliance connected to the
receptacle would follow witho ut piercing a floo r, wall, ceiling,
or fixed barrier, o r the shortest path without passing mrnugh a
window.
(A) Dwelling Units. Ali l25-volt through 250-volt receptacles
installed i11 t:he locations spi:cified in 2 l0. 8(A)( I ) through
(A) (11) a nd supplied by single-phase branch ci1·cuits rated
150 volts or less Lo ground shall h ave ground-fault circuit-
i.nterrupter protection for personnel.
(1) Bathrooms
(2) Garages a nd a l~o accessory buildings tha t have a fl oor
located at or below grade level not inte nded as habitable
roo ms and limited to storage area5, work a re.'ls, and
a rea5 of similar use
( 3 ) Outdoors
f.xcej1lio11 to (3): Rr!f:11ptades th(l.t rm· not rPadily accessible and rm·
supplied by a branch circuit rlerlicalerl lo electrir snow-melting, deicing,
or pipeline rmrl vessfl heating equifnnent slwll be permitted to be
ins/ri fled in accord.anu with 426.28 or 427.22, CL~ n/1plicable.
( 4) Crawl spaces - at or below grade level
(5) Basements
Exce/1tion lo (5): A re1;r,ptacle s1.1f1plying only a /Jemumently installer.t
fire 1Jl0:rrn or l;wglar alarm S')l/ilfl1n shall no! be requi:red to have ground-
fmtli cirntit·internJ41ter protel'lion.
Informational Note: See 760.41 (.8) a nd 760.121 (B) fo r power
suppl y requirements fo r fire a la rm systems.
Receptacles installed under d1e exceptio n to
2 I 0.S(A) (5) shall not be cons idered as meeting the
requirements of210.52(G) .
(6) Kitchens - where the receptacles a re insta ll ed to serve
the countertop surface s
(7) Sinks - where recepta cles a re installed within 1.8 m
(6 ft) from th e top inside edge of tl1e bowl of m e sin k
(8) Boatho uses
(9) Ba thtubs 0 1· showe r stalls - where receptacles are
installed witllin 1.8 m (6 ft) of the o u tside edge of the
barn tub o r s hower stall
( 10) Laundry areas
I:.) :r:ff1lion to (I) through ( 3), (5) through (8), and ( I 0): L i.ste1l locking
.mpport and mowit,ing 'lrt!'('/1tades utilized in /'0111bination with com/Jat-
ible auachmnit fittings installed for the pu>-pose of serving a ceiling
lwninain: or t:eili ng Jan shaft not bf required Lo be ground-fault dn:itit-
int errnpler f1mlected. if a gmeml-putj1ose ronvPni,mc11 ree11ptacle is inllf-
gml Lo Liu, ceiling fmninaire or l'eiling fan, GFCJ /nvteclion shall be
/>mvided.
(11) Indoor da mp and wet locations
(B) Othe r Than Dwelling Units. All 125-volt d1rough 250-vol t
receptac.les s upplie d by single-phase brancJ1 circuits 1-ated
150 volts or less to ground. 50 amperes o r less, and all recepta-
cles supplied by three-phase branch circllits rated 150 volt~ or
less to ground. 100 amperes o r less, installed in the locations
specified in 2 l0.8(B)( l ) tluoug h (B)( l 2) shall have ground-
fault circuit-inte rrupter prntection for personnel.
( l ) Batlu·oonis
(2) Kitchens or areas witn a sink ai1d permane nt provi~ions
for eime r food preparation or cooking
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 210 - BRANCH CIRCUITS
(3) Rooftops
Exception: Recrptacles on rooftops shall. not be required to he readily
affessiblR other than fmm thR mofl(}jl.
(4) Outdoors
E~1;eption No. 1 to ( 3) and (4 ): Rrrep!ades that mw not rmrlily llCtessi-
ble and ar,J .m/Jf>lied 0,, a branch circuit dedicatPr.l to Plectric snnw-
rnelting, deicing, m· pipPline and vessfl luating equipnuml shall be
permilled to bP installed in aceori:lmu;p with 426.28 or 427.22, as
appliwblR.
Exce/ilion No. 2 lo (4 ): in ind1.1,Strial estoblislwu:nts only, wherP lhP
conditions of 1naint11nanct1 ancl suf11/rvisinn 1111si1re that only qualified
/Je1:sonnl!f are involved, an asmred equifmient gmunding cmulw·tor
program os specified in 590.6(8)(2) shall be perrnif/edfor only those
m;eptade millets its11d ta supp!,y equipment that would 1Tentr r1, grmler
hazard if f>awer is interrupt.ed or having a design Iha! is not mmj1atible
tvith GFCJ f1rotection.
(5) Sinks - where receptacles are installed within 1.8 m
(6 ft) from the top inside e dge of the bowl of the sink
ExcPption No. l to (5): In industrial laboratories, rPl'epi.acles ll5ed lo
rnp/11:y equipment wfwrf' removal rif poruer would iritmdw;r a 6rrmter
hazard shall bf' permitted to be imtalled wWtO'Ul GFCJ pmtertion.
ExCPption No. 2 Lo (5): Remptadfs localed in fJOlient bed locations qf
Cal.egcn-y 2 (genrml care) or Clltegcny I ( critirnl atrP) spar.es of hmll/1,
careJacililies shall be pennilled to comply tuith 517. 21 .
(6) Indoor damp and wet locations
(7) Locker rooms with associated showe1·ing faciliti es
(8) Garages, accessory buildings, service bays, and sim.ilar
a reas othe r tha n vehicle exhibition h alls and sh owrooms
(9) Crawl spaces - a t or below grade level
(LO) Unfinished areas of basements
Exception to ( 1) through (5), (8), anrt (10): ListPd lod:ing support rmd
-mounting rP.cPf>lades ttlW.ud in combination with compatible attach-
m,e11i fittings inst11fled for the fni.rpose of serving a ceiling lwminaire or
ceiling Jan shall not. be requi rerl lo be gm·u.11.tlfa·ull cirruit-intemipter
f1mteded. If 11 geneml-pwfJOSP convenience rewptatlP is integral lo th~
ceiling lurninaire or chlingJan, GFf'J /1rolection slrnll be fJrOvided.
( 11 ) Law1dry area~
( 12) Bathn,1l;s and shower stalls - whe re receptacles are
in.stalled with in 1.8 m (fi ft) of the o uLside edge of the
bathtub or shower stall
(C) Crawl Space Lighting Outlets. GFCI protection sh all be
provided for lig hting outlet~ not exceedi11g 120 vol es installed
in c.rawl spaces.
(D) Specific Appliances. Unless GFCI protection is provided
in accordan ce with 422.5(B)(3) th rough (B)(5), the outlet5
supplying t11e appliances specifi ed in 422.5(A) shall have C FCI
protection in accordance with 422.5(B) ( J ) o r (B) (2) .
Where the applia nce is a ve nding machi.11e as specified in
422.5(A) (5) and GFCI protection is n ot provided in accord-
a nce with 422.5(B)(3) or (B)(4), bra nch circuiLs supplying
vending machines shall have CFC! protection in accordance
with 422.5(B) ( I ) o r (B) (2) .
(E) Equipment Requiring Servicing. GFCI protection shall he
provided fix the receptacles required hy 2 10.63.
(F) Outdoor Outlets. All outdoor o utlets for dwellings, other
than tl10se covered in 210.8(A)(3) . Exception to (3), that are
2020 Edition NATIONAL ELECTRIC.AL CODE
210.11
supplied by single-phase branch ci.rcuits rated 150 volts to
ground or less, 50 amperes o r less, shall h ave ground-fault
circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.
Exception: Grou,nd-Jaull. cirtuit-inlr.rmpter fJrof.ecti.on shall. not bf
rpquirnd on lighting oullets other than those rnvered in 2 10.8(C).
210.9 Circuits Derived from Autotransformers. Bran ch
c ircuit~ shall no t be derived from autou·an.5formers unless the
circuit supplied has a g rounded conductor tl1at is e lectrically
connected to a grounded conductor of the system supplying
the au totransformer.
Excepti<m No. 1: An 1mtotransfonncr shall be f.>errnitted without the
connection to a gimmded conductor where tmnsforrning Jrcmi a nmni-
ual 208 volL1 to o, nominal 240-voll suj1ply or similarly fi-mn 240 volts
lo 208 volLt.
Exception No. 2: in industrial occ:ujJanries, where conditions of main-
tenance antl si1pervision ens'!tre that only q1a1lijifd persons srrvice the
installation. mit0Lraniforn1n~ sh.all be permitted to supply nominal
600-volt loads from -nominal 480-voll systnns, r.md. 480-volt loads Jivrn
nominal 600-volt syst-em.s, without th.P tonnectiou, to a similar gmun-
d,er.l cmul1u·to1:
210.10 Ungrounded Conductors Tapped from Grounded
Systems. Two-wire de circuit5 a nd ac circuits of two or more
ungrow1ded conductors shall be permitted to be tapped from
the ungrounded condL1ctors of circu.it5 that have a g1·ounded
ne utral conductor. Switching devices in each tapped circu it
sha ll have a pole in each w1grounded conductor. All poles of
rnultipole switching devices shall manuall)7 switch together
whe1·e such switching devices a lso ser·ve as a d isconnecting
means as required by Lhe following:
(l ) 410.93 for double-pole switd1ecl la mpholders
(2) 410.1 04(B) for electric-discharge lamp a uxi lia ry equip-
me nt switching devices
(3) 422.3 l (B) for an applia nce
(4) 424.20 for a fi xed e lecu·ic space-h eating unit
(5) 426.51 for e lectric deicing and snow-me] ting equipme nt
(6) 430.85 for a motor conu·oller
(7) 430.103 for a motor
210.11 Branch Circuits Required. Branch circuiL5 for lig hting
and for appliances, including motor-operated appliances, shall
be provided to supply the loads calculated in accordan ce with
220.10. In addition, branch circuits shall be provide d for
specific loads not covered by 220.10 where requi1·ed elsewhere
in this Code an d fo r dwelling unit loads a5 specified in
210.l l (C) .
(A) Number of Branch Circuits. The mmmmm number o[
branch circuit5 shall be determined from the tocal calculated
load and the size or rating of the ci.rcuiL5 used. In a ll installa-
tiom, the number of circuits shall be sufficie nt to supply the
load ser ved. In no case shall the load on a ny c ircuit exceed the
maxi mum specified by 220. 18.
(B) Load EvenJy Proportione d Among Branch Circuits. Where
the load is calculated o n the basis of' volt-ampe res pe1· square
meter or per square foot, the wiring syste m up to and including
the branch-c ircuit panelboard(s) shall be provided to serve not
less than d1e calculated load. This load sha ll be evenly propor-
tioned among multioutlet branch circuit5 within die pa.nel-
board(s) . Bra nch-circuit. overcurrenr devices a nd c ircuiL5 shall
be required to be installe d o nly to serve the connected load.
70-63
210.ll ARTICLE 210- BRANCH CIRCUITS
(C) Dwelling Units.
(1) Small-Appliance Branch Circuits. In addition to the
numbei- of branch circuits reguired by otl1e1· parts of this
section, two or mm-e 20-ampere sma U--appliance branch circuit5
shall be provided for all receptacle outlets ~pecified by
21052(B).
(2) Laundry Branch Circuits. In addition to the number of
branch circuit5 required b)' oilier pat-L5 of th is section, at Least
one additional 20-ampere branch circuit shaU be provided to
supply the laundry receptacle outJet(s) required by 2 10.52(F).
This ci.rcuiLShall have no other outlets.
(3) Bathroom Branch Circuits. In addition to the number of
branch circuit5 requi.red by other pans of tliis section, one or
11101·e 120-volt, 20-ampere branch c ircuit shall be provided to
supply bathroom (s) receptacle outlet(s) required by 210.52(D)
and any countertop and sin1ilar work srn·face receptacle outlets.
Sucl1 circuit5 shall have no otl1er outlets.
Exreptivn: When, lhR 20-mnpft-e circuit supplu:s ll singl,r. bathroom,
rmtlets for other pq•uipment within the satnP hath.room shall b,, fiermilfed
to be snpfJliPd in acrordana with 210.23(A)( I) and (A)(2).
(4) Garage Branch Circuits. In addition to the mui1ber of
branch circuits reguired by otl1er pans of tl1is section, at least
one 120-volt, 20-ampere branch cirrnit shall be installed to
supply receptacle outleLS required by 2 L0.52(G) ( I) for
attached ga1·ages and in detached garages with electric powei-.
This circuit shall have no other outlets.
1.-.'xcefilion: This circuit shall be pemiilled to ,51.1.pfJfy readily accessible
outdoor receptaclt outlets.
210.12 Arc-Faull Circuit-Interrupter Protection. Arc-firnlt
circuit-interrupter protection shall he provided as required in
210.l2(A) , (B), (C), and (D) . The arc-fault cirrnit interrupter
shall be installed in a readily accessible Location.
(A) Dwelling Units. AU 120-voll, single-pha~e, 15- and 20-
ampere branch circuits supplying outlets or devices installed in
dwelling unit kitchens, family rooms, dining rooms, living
rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sun rooms. recreation
rooms, closet~, hallways, law1cl1-y areas, or similai- rooms or
areas shall be protected by a ny of the means described in
2 L().12(A)( l ) through (6):
(l ) A listed combination-type arc-fault circuit interrupter
installed to provide protection of tlie entire branch
circuit
(2) A listed branch/ feeder-type AFCJ installed at the origin
of the branch-circuit in combination with a Listed outlet
branch-circuit-ty pe arc-fault circuit interrupter installed a.t
the first outlet box on the branch c ircuit. The first outlet
box in the brand1 c ircuit shall be marked to indicate tliat
it is tl1e first outlet of the circuit.
(3) A listed supplemental arc protection cirntit breaker
installed at tlie origin of the branch circuit in com bina-
tion with a listed outlet branch-circuit-type arc-fault
ci rcui t interrupter installed at the first outlel box on tlie
branch circuit where a ll of the following conditions are
met:
a. The branch-cirntit wiring shall be contit1uotL5 from
che branch-circuit overcurrent device to the outlet
branch-circuit arc-fault c ircu it i.n ten-upter.
70-64
b. The maximum le ngth of the branch-circuit w1rmg
from the branch-ci1·cui t overcurrent device to the firsc
outlet shall not exceed 15.2 m (.'50 ft) for a 14 A\lllG
conductor or 21.3 m (70 ft) for a 12 AV·iG conductor.
c. l11e first outlet box in the branch circuit sha.11 be
marked to indicate tl1al it is the first outlet of the
circuit.
( 4) A listed outlet branch-circuit-type arc-faull circuic inter-
rupter installed a t the first outlet on tl1e branch circuit in
combination witl1 a listed bnu1ch-circuit overcurrent
protective device where all of the following conditio ns are
met:
a. The branch-circuit wiring sh a ll he continuous from
the branch-circuit overcurrent device to the outJet
branch-circ uit arc-fault circuit interrupte1:
b. The maximum le ngth of tlie branch-circuit wiring
from the branch-circuit overcurrent device to the first
outlet shall not exceed 15.2 m (50 ft) for a 14 AWG
conductor or 21.3 m (70 h) for a L2 AWG conductor.
c. The first o utlet box in the branch circuit shall be
marked to indicate that it is tl1e first outlet of the
circuit.
cl. l11e combination of the branch-circuit ove1-ctuTent
device and o utlet brancb-circu.it A.FCl shall be identi-
fied a.5 meeting tl1e requirements for a system
combination-type A.FCl and shall be listed as such .
(5) If metal raceway, metal wireways, metal a uxiliary gutters,
or Type MC, o r Type AC cable meeting tlie applicable
requirement~ of 250. l!S, witli meta.I boxes, metal conduit
bodies, and metal e nclosures are installed for tlie portion
of the branch circuit between the branch-cirCLtit overcur-
rent de,,ice a nd tl1e first outJet, it shall be permitted to
imtall a listed o utlet branch-circuit-type A.FCl at tlie first
outlet to provide protectio11 for the rema ining portion of
tlie branch cit-cttit.
(6) v\1here a listed metal or nonmetallic conduit or tubing or
Type MC cable is encased in not less tl1an 50 mm (2 in. )
of concrete for the portion of the brallch circuit between
the branch-circuit overcurren Ldevice and the first outlet.
it shall be permitted to install a listed outJet branch-
circuit-Type AFCI at the first o utlet to provide protection
for the re maining portion oftl1e branch circuit.
t'xception: AFC/ protection shrill not be required for an individual
branch circ1.1.it, sufJfJlying a fim aln,m1 system installed in nccmdanre
wilh 760.4J(B) or 760.121(B). The branch cirr:1.1.itshall bp installn! in
a metal mCPW(~Y, me/al att:>,,'ilia-t)' gutter, sleel-a-nnored cablP, 7)'p,i MC
or Typ P AC, meeting the applit;able ·mquirernent1 of 250.118, with
metal boxP.s, conduit bodies, and enclosures.
Informational Note No. 1: For information on c;ombination-type
and branch/ feeder-type arc-fault circuit in1.errupters, see UL
1699--2011, Standrmi ,far An°Fault Circuit hllenupt11rs. For informa-
tion on 0LL1l et branch-circui1 type arc-fault circuit inrerruplers,
see UL Subjecc 1699A, 01./lhlle of lm111s1;gnlim1 f or 011/lt;l Bmnc/1
Cim11il J\r,;,Faull Cfrc11il- h,terrup1ers. For information on system
combinat.io n AFCl s, see UL Subjeer J699C, Outline of lnve11iga-
lionj'ot Sysl,tm Combi 11ali011 J\n:-Fault Circuit hlil'rruf>/.ers.
Informational Nore No. 2: See 29.6.3(5) of NFPA 72-20 1'.1.
Nalional hr; Alonn rind Sig;nali-l1K Codt, for information relater! LO
secondary power-supply requiremems for smoke alarms installer!
in dwelling uniLS.
Informational Note Nn. 3: See 760.41 (B) and 760.121 (B) for
powe1°supply requirements for fire alarm systems.
NATlONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 2J O- BRANCH ClRCUITS
(B) Dormitory Units. All J20-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-
ampere branch circuit5 supplying outlet~ and devices installed
in dormitory unit bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, closers,
bathrooms, and similar rooms shall be protected by any of the
means described in 2 LO. J2(A) ( I ) through (6) .
(C) Guest Rooms, Guest Suite s, and Patient Sleeping Rooms
in Nursing Homes and Limited-Care Facilities. All 120-volt,
single-phase, l .'i- and 20-ampere branc h circuit~ supplying
o utlets and devices installed in guest rno1n5 a nd guest sui tes of
hotels and motel5 and patient sleepi11g rooms in nursing
homes and limited-care facilities shall be protected by any of
tl1e means desc1·ibed in 2 10. L2(A) ( I ) through (6) .
(D) Branch Circuit Extensions or Modifications - Dwelling
Units, Dormitory Units, and Guest Rooms and Guest Suites.
Whe1·e branch circuit wiring for any of the areas specifi ed i.n
2L0. 12(A), (B}, or (C) is modified, replaced, or extended , the
b ranch circuit shall be protected by o ne of the fo llowi ng:
( 1) By an)' of the means described in 210.12(A)( l) through
(A) (6)
(2) A listed outlet branch -circuit-type AFC! located at me fi rst
receptacle outlet of tl1e existing branch circuit
Exce/Jlion: AFC/ pmtection shalt not be requirecl where thP extension of
the r:;.irling /Jmnd, 1:i,rru.it to11d'l,1ttors ir not more than 1.8 m (6 fl) llnd
does not ·include any additional outlPt,~ or devices, other than spliring
devices. This mtasim.rment shllfl not include the conductors insidP an
endosure, cabinet, orjunction box.
210.1 3 GroUild-Fault Protection of Equipment. Each branch-
circuit d isconnect rated l000 A or more and installed on solic!Jy
grotmded wye electrical systems of more than 150 vol t5 to
grnund, but not exceeding 600 volts phase-to-pha~e. shall be
provided with ground-faul t protection of equipment in accord-
ance with 230.95.
Informational Note: For buildings that contain health care occu-
pancies. see the reqLLirememsof5 17.17.
l!.x1;eptio11 No. 1: This section shall not apt>ly to ,1 clisronnecting means
for a rontinuo'l/S indu.st·ri.al process wlwre 11 nonorrler!y shutdown will
intmdua additional or incmmd ha:umLt
Exmption No. 2: 771iJ se,;tion shall no/ af1/Jly if groundf@lt fnvtection
of equifrmenl is f1rovided on the suf1p!:y side of the branch cin:uil and on
thr load sidr ofany lran.ifcmner supplying thr branr.h ri:rrnit.
210.15 Reconditioned Equipment. The follmving shall n ot be
recondition ed:
( 1) Equi pment tliat provides ground-fault circuit-interrupte1-
protection for personnel
(2) Equipme nt that provides arc-fault circuit-inten-upLer
protection
(3) Equ·iprnent tlrnt provides gTouncl-fault protection of
equipment
210.17 Guest Rooms and Guest Suites. G uest rooms and g uest
suites tl1at a.re pr0\7 ided wim permanent provisio ns for cooking
shal l have branch circuits installed to meet the rules for dwell-
ing unit~.
Part IL Branch-Circuit Ratings
210.18 Rating. Branch circ uit~ recognized by this article sha.U
be rated in accordance wit.h tJ1e maximum permitted ampere
rating or .~etting of tl1e overcurrent device. The rati ng for other
2020 E(lition NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
210. 19
tlian individual branc h circu its sha ll be 15, 20, 30. 40, and 50
amperes. Whe1·e conductors of higher a mpacity are used for
any reason, the ampere rating or ~etting of tl1e specified over-
current device sha ll determine tl1e circuit rating.
Excepti<m: Multiou//,el brr.cnrh cirr.uits grmter than 50 mnfJPres slwlf be
/Jermitted to stt/1p!:y nonligh.ting outl,et loads 011 industrial premise,
whem amditions of mainlenani:t cmd stLperuision rmsw,, that only
qnalified persons servicl' th.r eq aipmmt.
210.19 Conductors-MinimumAmpacity and Size.
(A} Branch Circuits Not More Than 600 Volts.
Informationa l No1.e No. 1: See 310.14 for ampacicy and tempera-
ture limimtions of conductors.
Ln.formational No1.e No. 2: See Part U of ArticJe 430 for rnini-
mw)) rating of motor branch-circuit conduc1ors.
Informational Note No. 3: Conducmrs for branch circu.irs as
defined in Article 1()0, sized LO prevent a voltage drop exceeding
3 percent at the farr.hesr outlet of power. heating, and lighting
loads, or combinations of such loads, and where the maximum
LOlal mil.age drop on both Jee<;lers and branch circuits to 1he
farthest ot11leL does nm exceed !i percent, provide reasonable
efficiency of operation. See I nfonnational NOle No. 2 of
~15.2(A) ( I) for voltage drop on feeder conduc1ors.
(1) General Branch-circuit conductors ~hall have a n ampacity
not les tkm tl1e larger of 2I0. 19(A)( l )(a) or (A)( l )(b ) and
comply with ll 0.14(G) fo r equipme nt term inations.
(a) Where a branch circuit supplies continuo us loads or
any combination of contim.1otL5 and noncontinuous loads, the
minimum bra nch-ci1·c uit conductor size shall have an ampacity
not less man the noncon tin uous load plus 125 percent of d1e
conti.n uous load i.n atcorc;lan ce with 3 I0.1 4.
(b) The minimum bnmch-cfrcuit conductor size shall
have an ampaci1y not less tha n the maxi mum load to be served
after me a pplication of any adjtt~tment or correction factors in
accordance with 310.15.
Exception No. 1 to /1 J(a): If the a.ssernbl)\ in.duding lh.f ove.rcu.rrenl
de1.1ii;e~ jJrolecting /ht branch d ,rnit(s), i1 listed for operation at
JOO J>ercnit of its rr1ling, th.e mn.jJar.it.y of the l1rand1.-r,i.1ruit cond'l.tctors
shall b~ f1ermittfd to be not less- than the .ntrn of Ifie ctmlinmms load
fJlits the noncontinwm.t load in accordance utith 110.14(C).
faception No. 2 lo ( l )(a) and ( l )(b): Where a portion of a branch
circu.il. is tonnecled at both its supply and load ends lo sefmrntrfy
imtalled pre.mire tonnections (LI i:overed in 110. 14(C)(2), it sh.all bt>
perrn-itlerL to have an allowable 11mj>11city, in accordance uritlt 310. 15,
not less than tht> sum of the continuous load j1lus the noncont.imwus
load. No f10rti11n of a bmnrh circuit installed im.der this Pxnption shall
extend into an enclosurt> containing liither the l1r(mrh-drruil su.f1ply or
the branrh..;;irmit /o!l(l terminations.
(2) Branch Circuits with More than One Receptacle. Conduc-
tors of branch circuiL~ suppl)~ng mo re than one receptacle for
cord-and-plug-connected portable loads sha ll have a n a.mpacity
of not less than tl1e rating of the branch ci1·cuit.
(3) Household Ranges and Cooking Appliances. Bra n ch-
circuit conductors supplying househo ld ranges, wall-mounted
ovens, cou11te 1°mounted cooking units, and o the r ho useh o ld
cooking appliances shaU have a.n ampacity not less tha n the
rating of the branch ci rcuit anrl not less than the maximum
load to be served. For ranges of 8¼ kW or more rating, tl1e
minimum branch-circuit rating shall be 40 a mperes.
70-65
210.19 ARTICLE 210 -
Exc&{ltion No. 1: Conrlur:tors tapped from. a &ranch circuit not exceed-
ing 5 0 amjm·es supj1lying elPCtric ran1,ms, wall--mmmt,erl elect1ir ovenr,
and cQimter-moimled electrir cooking un·ity shall have an am.pacity of
not less than 20 rlilnperes rmrl shall be sufficient for the loar.l to be
served. These tap r;ondur:tors include any conditctnn that are a /mrt of
the li•ads .1'1.1ppliecl with lhe appliancr, thr.tt arP smaller than the {1ranch-
rircuil condurtors. The ttlf>s shall not be longer than nec.essary Jar snv-
idng /ftp 11ppliance.
Exception No. 2: Tiu: neutral condurt,or of a 3-wire branch l'iiruit
supplying a ho·Use!J.old elect·ric range. a tvafl.-mm1ntrd oven, nr a
cou:nteic1no·unt~d rnoking i i.nit shalt bf pn711i/ted to br smalln than the
11.ngmu:ndul condw:/ors where the r11.axi.rm1.rn de11utnd of a mnge of
8 31, kW or morn rating has been calculated according to Column C of
Tab[,, 220.55, but such mnductor shall have an amjJarit:y of not lf'Ss
th.an 70 f>err,Pnl of the branc/1-circuit rating and shall not bP sma!lrl'
than 10AWG.
(4) Other Loads. Branch-circuit conductors that suppl)' loads
o ther than those specified in 210.3 and otJ1ei- th an cooking
appliances as covered in 2l0.19 (A) (3) shall have an ampaci ty
sufficient for tJ1e loads served and shall not be smalle r than
14AWC.
Exception No. 1 : Tap cond11rtors shall !tavR an ampacity sufficient for
the loctd served. l n addition, lluy shaft havr rm mnj>acity of not fess
lhan 15 firr i;i,muilf mled lrss than 40 amprres and not lf.tf llwn 20 for
rircuits rated al 40 or 50 am,/11'1-e.s and on~ wherf these la/1 conduct(n;f
supply £171)' of t!tt following loads:
( 1) Individual lamplwlden or lmnin.aires with laps i<Xlending not
longer than 450 mm ( 18 in.) bfyond r.my portion of the la.rnjr
holder or lamina.ire
(2) A lmninairr having tap rnndttctor.1· as j11rroit.fPd in 4 IO. 11 7
(3) individual o-utlets, othrr than rece/Jlad.e oul{fJS, with taps 1wt
over +50 rnrn ( 18 in.) long
(4) i nfrared larnp industrial heating appliances
(5) N!mlu:ati 11g lec1ds nj r{,eii;ing and ~-nml!-tn.elting rnbles and mals
E.xr:eption No. 2; Fixt1.1re wires and jlP>,,'ib/f rn-rds shall be t>Rrmitted to b~
smaller than 14 A. WG tts /JPrmitted by 240.5.
(B) Branch Cin:uit,; Over 600 Volts. TI1e ampac ity of conduc-
tors shall be in accordance with 3 10.14 and 311.60, as applica-
ble. Brauch-cir·cuit conducto rs over 600 volts shall be sized in
accordance wit11 210.l 9(B) ( 1) or (B) (2) .
(1) General. The a mpac ity of branch-circuit conductors sha U
not be less than I 25 pe rcent of the designed pote ntial load of
utilization equipme nt t11at will be operated simult.."lneou sly.
(2) Supervised Installations. For supervised installa tions,
branch-circuit conductor sizing shall be p e rn1itted to be deter-
mined by qualified persons under e ngineering supe1v ision.
Supervised installatio n.~ are defined as those portions of a
facility where bo th of the fo llowing conditio ns are met:
(1) Conditio ns of design a nd imtallation are provided nnder
engineering supervision.
(2) Q ua lified persor1.5 witJ1 documemed training a nd experi-
e nce in ove1· 600.volt systems provide mainte nance, moni-
toi-i.ng, and servicing of the system.
210.20 Overcurrent Protection. Branch-circuit conductors a nd
equipment sha ll be protected by overcurre nt protective devices
t11at h ave a ra ting or settin g that complies with 210.20(A)
through (D ) .
70-6fi
BRANCH CIRCUITS
(A) Continuous and Noncontinuous Loads. Where a branch
circuit supplies continuou~ loads o r a ny combina tion of contin-
uo us and noncontinuou.~ load~, tJ1e rating of the overcun·e n t
device shall not be less rhan the noncontinuo us load plu s
125 p ercent of tl1e continuous load.
l 'xteption: Whn-e. the a.~~fmbl)', induding the overcurrenl devices
protecting tlu: branrli d rcuit(s), is listrd fin· oprration at 100 fJl'ri:ent of
it,~ rrtting, the arn.j>Prf rating of thP over,:urrmt device shall l!t j)('l'mitted
Lo f1e not less than llu1 surn. of the amtirw.<Jus lorul fll'!IS tlu1 noncontinu-
O'Lts lortd.
{B) Conduclor Protection. Conductors shaJI b e protected in
accordance with 240.4. .E'lexible cords and fixtu re wi.res shall be
protected in accordance with 240.5.
(C) Equipment. TI1 e rating o r setting of the overcurrent
protective device sha ll not exceed that specified in the applica-
ble articles refe renced in Ta ble 240.3 for equipme nt.
(D) Outlet Devices. The rating o r setting shall no t exceed that
specified in 210.21 for outle t devices.
210.21 Outlet Devices. Outlet devices shall have an a mpere
rnting that is n o t less tha n tJ1e k1ad to be served a nd sha ll
comply with 210.21 (A) and (B).
(A) Lampholders. Where connected to a branch c ircuit h aving
a rating in excess of 20 amperes, la mpholders shall be of the
h eavy-duty type. A h eavy-duty la mpholde r shall have a rating of
nor less than 660 watt~ if of t11e admedium type, or not less
t11an 750 watts if of any other type.
(B) Receptacles.
(1) Single Receptacle on an Individual Branch Circuit. A
single receptacle installed on a n ind ividual branc h c ircuit shall
have an ampere rating not less t11an that oftJ1e branch circuit.
Exce/>lion No. I : A 1-pcr1p!adt instt.illed in accorr.lancr• wilh 430.81(8).
.Exce/1lion No. 2: A receptcu;/f instal/frl rxclusi.rnry for lhr1 'USP of a. rorrlr
awl-pl?ig-connerted an: welder shall bP fJP1-rnit1ed to have an arnf,erf
rating not less than the minim wn bmnclt-fircuil cmulw'/or 1u114xuity
det,mniner.l by 630. l l (A) for arr welders.
l nformaLion~I No1e: See rhe definido n of rectj1lr,ct,, in A ni-
cle 100.
(2) Total Cm·d,and-Plug-Connected Load. Where connected
to a branch circuiL supplyin g two or mo re r ecepta cles or
outJets, a receptacle sh aU not suppl)' a total cord-and-plug-
connected load in excess of the maximum specified in Ta ble
210.21 (B) (2) .
(3) Receptacle Ratings. Whe re connecte d to a bra nch circui t
supplying two o r mo re receptacles m· outlet5, receptacle ratings
shall conform to the values listed in Tobie 210.2 l (B )(:3 ), or-,
whe1-e rated higher t11an 50 amperes, t11e receptacle rating shall
not be less than tJ1e branch-circuit rating.
Table 210.21 (B)(2) Maximum Cord-and-Plug-Connected Load
to Receptacle
Circuit Rating Receptacle Rating Maxim.um Load
(Amperes) (Amperes) (Amperes)
15 or 20 15 12
20 20 16
30 30 24
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020 Edition
 ARTICLE 210 - BRANCH CJRCUlTS 210. 25

Exception No. J.- Receptacles installed exclu..1ively for the we of one or
rnore rmd-and-plug-connectPd a n: welders shall lie permitted lo have
ampere ratings not less llw:n ihf rninim:u.m branch.-ci:rcuit conduCLor
arnpacity detrrmined by 630. 1l (A) or (B ) for arc welders.
Exception No. 2: The arnpen: rating of ti receptacle instal/Pd for elertric
,tisch.mge lighting ~hall be permitted to be based on 410.62(C).
(4) Range Receptacle Rating. T he ampere rating o f a range
receptacle shall be permitted to be based on a single range
demand load as specified in Table 220..'55.
210.22 Pern:ussible Loads, Individual Branch Circuits. An indi-
vidual branch circuit shall be permitted to supply any· load for
which it is rated. but in no ca~e sha ll 1.he load excee d the
branch-circuit ampere rating.
210.23 Pern:ussibJe Loads, Multiple-Outlet Branch Circuits. In
no ca5e shall the load exceed tJ1e bmnch-circ uit ampere rating.
A branch circuit supplying two or m ore o utle ts or receptacles
shall supply only the loads specified according to iL5 size as
specified in 210.23(A) th.roug h (D ) and as summarized in
210.24 and Ta ble 2 I0.24.
(A) 15- and 20-Ampere Branch Circuits. A 15- or 20-a mpere
b ranch circuit shall be permitted to supply lighting units or
other utilization equipment, or a combination of both, and
shall compl)' with 2 l0.23(A) ( 1) and (A) (2) .
Exception: The sm(![l,.af;pli,ance bm-ni;lt cin:uits, lmmdry /Jmnl'h
cirwils, and bathroom branch circuits requirl!ll in a dwelling unit(s) by
210.11 (CJ( 1), (C)( 2), and (C)(3) shall .mf>ply only thl' rneptade
oi1,tlets specified in that sPclion.
Table 210.21 (B)(3) Receptacle Ratings for Various Size
Circuits
Circuit Rating Receptacle Rating
(Amperes) (Amperes)
15 Not over 15
20 15 or 20
30 30
40 40 or 50
50 50
(1) Cord-and-Plug-Connected Equipment Not Fastened in
Place. The rating of a ny one cord-and-plug-connected utiliza-
tion equipment not fa5tened in place sha ll not exceed
80 percent of rl1e bran ch-circuit a mpere rating.
(2) Utilization Equipment Fastened in Place. TI1e tota l rating
of utilization equipment faste ned in p lace, o ther than lumin-
aires, shall not exceed 50 perce nt of 1.he brancJ1-circuit ampere
,-al:ing where lighting units, cord-and-plug-connected utilizati on
equipment not fastened in p lace, or both, a re a l50 supp lied.
(B) 30-Ampere Branch Circuits. A 30-ampere branch c ircuit
shall be permitted to supply fixed lighting units with heavy-duty
lampholders in o the1' than a dwel ling unit(s) or utilization
equipme nt in any occupancy. A rating of any one cord-and-
plug-connected utiliza tion equipment shall 11ot exceed
80 percent of the hra nch-circ uiLa mpen" rating.
(C) 40- and 50-Ampere Branch Circuits. A 4(}. o r 50-ampere
branch circ uit s hall be permitted to supply cooking a ppliances
that are fastened in place in a ny occupancy. In other than
dwelling units, suc h circuits shall be permitted to s upply fixed
lighti ng wliL5 with heavy-duty lampholders, infrared hea ting
u n.its, or other utilization equipme nt.
(D) Branch Circuits Larger Than 50 Amperes. Bn1.11ch c ircuit5
larger U1an 50 amperes sha ll supply only nonlighting o utlet
loads.
210.24 Branch-Circuit Requirements Summary. The
requi rements for circuiLS th a t have two or m ore o utlets o r
receptacles, other than the receptacle circuit5 of 2 10.11 (C) (1),
(C) (2) , a nd (C)(3), are summarized in Tab le 210.24. This table
provides o nly a s ummary of m inimum requirem e nts. See
210.19, 210.20, and 210.21 for th e specific requ.irement5 a pply-
ing to br,rnch circuit5.
210.25 Branch Circuits in Buildings with More Than One
Occupancy.
(A) Dwelling Unit Branch Circuits. Bra nch cirCLtits in each
dwelling uni t sha ll supply o nl y load5 within that dwelling unit
or loads a5sociated o nly with that dwelling unit.
(B) Common Area Branch Circuits. Brnnch circuits insta ll ed
for lig hting, central alarm, signal, communications, or other
purposes for public or common ,1.reas of a two-family dwelling,
a multi fa mily dwelli ng, o r a multi-occupancy build ing shall not

Table 2 10.24 Summary of Branch-Circuit Requirements

Circuit Rating 15A 20A 30A 40A 50A

Conductors (m i11. size) :
Circuit wires 1 14 l~ 10 8 6
Taps J4 14 14 12 n
Fixl.llre \\~res and corcl5
- see 240.5
Overcurrent Protection 15A 20A 30A 40A 50A
Outlet devices:
Lampholders permi1.ted Any type Any type I-lcavy duty Heavy duty H eavy d uty
Rcccp1.aclc rating~ 15 max. A 15 or 20 A 30A 40 or 50 A 50A
Maximum Load 15A 20A 30A 40 A 50A
Perm issible load Sec 2J0.23(A) See 210.23(A) Sec 2J0.23(B) See 2I0.23(C) Sec 210.23(C)
'These gaug-es are for copper co nduno rs.
2
For receprncle rating of' cord-connecred electric-di.Kharge luminai res, see 4 I 0.6\!(C).

2020 Edition NATIONAL E LECTRICAL CODE 70-67

210.50 ARTICLE 210- BRANCH CIRCUITS
be supplied from equipment that supplies an individual dwell-
ing unit or tenant space.
Informational Note: E.xarnples of public or common a.reas
include, but are not limited LO, .lobbies, corridors, stairways,
laundry rooms, roofs, elevmors. washrooms, store rooms, drive-
ways (parking), and mechanical rooms.
Part III. Required Outlers
210.50 Receptacle Outlets. Receptacle ouLlets sha ll
installed ,t~ ~peci.fied in 210.52 through 210.65.
lnformar.ion::tl Note: See In.formative Annex .I for informafion
regarding ADA accessibrncy design.
(A) Cord Pendants. A cord connector tl1at is supplied b y a
permanently connected cord pendant sha ll be considered a
receptacle outJet.
(B) Cord Connections. A receptacle outlet shall be .installed
wherever fl exible cords witl1 attachment p.lugs are used. Where
flexible cord~ are permitted to be permanently connected,
r eceptacles shall be permitted to be o nutted for such corcL~.
(C) Appliance Receptacle Oullers. Appliance receptacle
outlets installed in a dwelling w1it for specific appliances, such
as laundry equipment, shall be installed with in 1.8 m (6 ft) of
the intended location of the appliance.
210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle OutlelS. This section
provides require ments for 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere recepta-
cle o utlets. The receptacles 1·equi1-erl by this section shal.l be in
addition to an.y receptacle tl1ati.s as fo llows:
(1) Part of a luminaire or appliance, or
(2) Controlled by a listed wall-moun ted control device in
accordance witJ1 2 I0.70(A) ( J ), Exception No. 1, or
(3) Located within cabinets o r c upboard~, or
(4) Located more than 1.7 m (5½ ft) above the floor
Permanently installed elecn-ic baseboard heaters equipped
witJ1 factory-installed receptacle oullets or omlet~ provided as a
separate assembly hy the manufacturer shall be permitted as
tl1e requ ired outlet or outlets for the wall space utilized by su ch
pem1anenlJy installed heaters. Such receptacle outlets shall not
be connected to the h eater circuiL~.
lnformar.ional Note: Listed baseboard heaters include instruc-
cions thar may not permit their installaifon below recepracle
o utlets.
(A) Genera.I Provisions. In every kitche n, family room, din ing
room, living room, parlor, library, den, sw1room, bed.room,
recreation room, or similar r oom or area of clwelJing unit~.
receptacle o utleL5 shall be installed in accordance with the
general provisions specified in2L0.52(A)( L) through (A)(4) .
( l ) Spacing. Receptacles shall be installed such tl1at no point
measured horizomall)' along the floor li11 e of any wall space is
more man L.8 m (6 Ii.) from a receptacle outlet.
(2) Wall Space. As used i.n this section, a wall space s hall
include the following:
(1) Any space 600 mm (2 ft) or more in width (including
space measured around corners) a nd unbroken along the
floor line by doorways and similar openings, fireplaces,
and fixed cabinets that do not have coLmtertops or simi-
lar work surfaces
70-68
(2) The space occupied by fixed panels i11 walls, excluding
sliding panels
(3) The space afforded by fixed room clividers, such as free-
standing baH:ype counters or railings
(3) Floor Receptacles. Receptacle outlets in or o n floors shal l
not be coLL11ted as part of the required number of receptacle
out.l et5 unless located within 450 mm ( 18 in. ) of Lhe wall.
(4) Countertop and Similar Work Surface Receptacle Outlets.
Receptacles installed for colu1te:rtop and similar work smfaces
be a5 specified in 210.52(C) shall not be considered as tl1e recep-
tacle ouLlets required by 2 I0.52(A).
(B) Small Appliances.
(l) Receptacle Outlets Se1·ved. In l11e kitch en, pantry, break-
last room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling unit, the
two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuit5
required by 210.ll (C)(l ) shall serve a ll wall and floor recepta-
cle o utlet.~ covered by 210.n2(A), all countertop o utlets covered
b)' 210.52(C), and receptacle outlet5 for refrigeration equip-
ment.
E:tce/1Lion No. 1: Tn addition to thP required receptacles specified by
210. 52, switrherl rwptaclPs supf1lied frorn a general-pmpo.w' 15- or 20--
ampere branch circuit as require,t in 210. 70(/\)(1), Exreption No. 1,
shall be /1ermi1ted.
Exuption No. 2: l n addition lo lhP required rn:eptncles s/)111:ified by
210.52, a receplacle outlet to St'rve a sper:ific apt1liance s!tc1ll be /Jermil-
ted to be .mfrpli"d from an individual branch circuit ratfd 15 amperes
or grea/e,:
(2) No Other OutlelS. The two or more small-applia nce
brnnch circuits specified in 210.52(B) ( I ) shall have n o otl1er
outJ ets.
Excej1tion No. 1: A ·rec.eptadt inslolled solf(V for the flP(trical swptl!:y lo
and support of an e!n:tric dol'k in any of tfu, rooms specified in
2!().52(B)( I).
E..,;cl'{Jtion No. 2: Receptacle:, instctl!.ed to pmvirle potvP>· jlJI" .wipplemen-
lal equifmient and lighting rm gos-fired ranges, mwns, or /'Ountei~
mounted cooking wnits.
(3) Kitchen Receptacle Requirements. Receptacles in.5talled in
a kitchen to serve countertop surfaces shall b e supplied by not
fewer than two small-appliance brnnch ci.t·cuits, e itl1er o r botl1
ofw luch shall also be permitted to supply 1·eceptacle outlet5 in
l11e same kitchen and in other rooms specified in 210.52(B)
( 1) . Additional small-appliance branch circuits shall be permit:
ted to supply receptacle o utle ts i.t1 ilie kitchen and o!J1e1- rooms
specified in 2 L0.52(B) (l ) . No small-appliance branch circui t
sha.11 serve more than one kitchen.
(C) Countertops and ·work Surfaces. In kitchens, pantries,
breakfasl rooms, dining rooms, and similar areas of dwelling
units. receptacle outlet~ for countertop and work surfaces tJ1at
are 300 mm (12 in.) or wider shall be installed in accordance
witJ1. 210.52(C)(l)tl1rough (C)(3) and sh;:\11 not be considered
a~ the receptacle outlet~ required by 210.52(A).
For the purposes of this section, whe1·e ming multioutlet
a.~semblies, each 300 mm (12 in. ) of multioutl et assembly
con taining two or more receptacles installed in individual or
continuous lengths sha ll be considered co be one receptacle
outlet.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 2J O- BRANCH CIRCUITS 210.52

(1) Wall Spaces. Receptacle outlets shall be installed so that no
point along tl1e wall line is more tllan 600 mm (24 in.) meas-
ured horizontally from a receptacle outlet in t hat space.
1:.':,.cception: Receptacle oullets sludl not bf' required directly behind a
range, coimter..,mnunted conking unit, or sink in lhe installation
described in figure 210.52(C)( 1 ).
(2) Island and Peninsular Counlertops and Work Surfaces.
Recepr.acle o utlet5 shal l be in.stalled in accordance witl1
210.52(C)(2) (a) and (C)(2) (h).
(a) At least one receptacle outlet sha ll be provided for
tl1e first 0.84 ni (9 fti), or fraction thereof, of the countertop
or work surface. A 1·eceptacle outlet shall be provided for every
additional J .7 111 2 (18 Ft2 ), or fraction tJ1ereof, of the counter-
top m- wrn-k surface.
(b) At least one receptacle o utlet shall be located witl1in
600 mm (2 ft) of the outer end of a peninsular countertop or
work surface. Additional required receptac.le outlet~ shall be
permitted to be located as determined by the installer,
designer, or buikling owner. The location of the receptac le
outlets shall be in accordance witl1 210.52(C) (3).
• h. space exempt from wa •th'
- . 0 u ti et WI1 in ;-+ r 1"f X 300 (12 • ) - - Ou 11et WI 111 .-
600 mm (24 in-) ine < mm in. 600 mm (24 in.)
i
X
t Al 17.1-2009, Slm1d1ttd on Acr:11s,ibk at!tl Usablt B11ildfr1gs and Fatili-
A peninsular coLm tertop shalJ be measured from th e
connected perpendicular wall.
(3) Receptacle Outlet Location. Receptacle outlet5 shall be
localed i11 one or more of the following:
(I) On or above countenop or work surfaces: On or a bove,
but not more tJian .500 mm (20 in.) a bove , tl1e counter-
top or work surface.
(2) In countertop or work surfaces: Receptacle o utle t assem-
blies listed for LL.5e in countertops or work surfaces shall
be permitted to be installed in coumertops or work surfa-
ces.
(3) Below co1mtertop o r works sm-faces: Nol more d1an 300
111111 ( 12 in. ) below tl1e countertop o r work surface.
Receptacles i11st,illed below a countenop or work surface
shall not be located where the countenop o r work surface
extends more than 150 mm (6 in.) beyond its support
base.
Receptacle outlets rendered not readily access.ible by appli-
a nces fa5tened in place, appliance garages, sinks, or rangetops
as covered in 210.52(C) ( I ), Exception , or appliances occupy-
ing a5signed spaces sha ll not be considered a.5 tl1ese required
outlet5 .
Informational Note No. I: See 406.5(E) and 406.5(G) for instal-
lal.ion of receptacles in co1.ui1enops and 406.S(F) and 406.5(G)
for insLallalion of recepcacles in work rnrfaces. See 380. 10 fo,·
ios1al lal.ion nfnrnltio1.,tlec a.ssemblies.
Informational Nme No. 2: See Annex J and ANSI/ ICC
lil!.s.

(D) Bathrooms. At least one receptacle outlet sha ll be

installed in bathrooms within 900 mm (3 ft) of the out5ide
edge of each basiH. The receptacle outlet sha ll be localed o n a
wall or partition that is adjacent to tl1e basin or basin cou11 ter-
top, located o n the countertop. or installed on the side 0 1- face
.Range, counter-mounted cooking unit, or si nk of tl1e basin cabinet. ln no case shall tJ1e receptacle be located
extending f rom face of counter more tJ1a11 300 mm (12 in.) bek1w tJ1e top of tJ1e basin or basin
counte rtop. Receptacle outlet assem bli es ILsted for use in coun-
tertops shall be permitted to be iJ1sta lled in the countertop.
Space exempt from wall line Outlet within 600 mm (24 in.) Informationa l Note: See 406 ..~(E) and 4()6.!i(GJ for require-
if X < 450 mm (18 in.) menc~ for installatio n of recepmdes in countertops.
(E) Outdoor Outlets. Outdoor receptacle o utJelS shall h e
installed in accordance wiLh 2l0.52(E) (1) through (E)(3).
X lnformal.ional Note: See 210.S(A) (:~).
(1) One-Family and Too-Family Dwellings. for a one-family
dwelling and each unit of a two-family dwelling tJiat is at g rade
level, at leas t one receptacle o utlet readily accessible from
grade and not more than 2.0 m (6½ ft) above grade leve l shal l
be i.nsr.alled at the front and back of tlie dwelling.
Outlet within (2) Multifamily Dwellings. For each dwelling unit of a multi-
600mm family dwelling where tl1e dwelling unil is located at grade leve l
(24in.)
a nd provided with incJjvidual exterior entrance/ egress, at lea5t
one receptacle outlet readily accessible from grade and not
more than 2.0 m (6½ ft) above g,ade level shall be installed.
(3) Balconies, Decks, and Porches. Balconies, decks, and
porch es tl1at are witJ1 in 102 mm (4 in.) horizontally of tJ1e
Range, counter-mounted cooking unit, o r s ink
mounted in corner dwelling unit shal l have at least one receptacle omJet accessible
from the balcony, deck. OI- poi-ch. The rece ptacle outle t shall
FIGURE 210.52(C) (1) Determination of Area Behind a not be located more than 2.0 m (6½ fr) above U1e balcony,
Range, Counter-Mounted Cooking Unit, or Sink. deck, or porch walking su rface.

2020 Ei;lition NATLONAL ELECTRLCAL CODE 70-69

210.52 ARTICLE 210- BRANCH CIRCUITS
(F) L·mndry Areas. In dwelling units, at least one receptacle
outlet shall be installed in areas designated for the installation
oflaundry equipment.
Excef1ti11n No. 1: A receplacle Jar la·1.mrby eq11ipmml sh.all nol be
required in a dwelling unit of a multifi.imil:y building wlwre laundry
facilities are p1miided on the f>re·misesJor !L5e by all building ocrupan/,J.
Excef1lion No. 2: A reuplaclP /!Jr lmmthy equipment sludl not be
requirPd in other than onefamil~ dwellings whmJ laitnd1)' fariliti~s are
not, to be installed or permitted.
(G) Basements, Garages, and Accessory Buildings. for one-
and two-famil y dwellings, and multifamily dwelling-s, at least
o ne receptacle outlet shall be installed in the area~ specified in
210.52(G) ( l) tl1rough (G) (3). These receptacles shall be i.n
addition to receptacles required for specific equipment.
( 1) Garages. l n each attached garage and in each detached
garage with electric power, at least one receptacle outlet shall
be i.nstalled in each veh icle bay and not. mo1·e tl1an 1.7 m
(5½ ft) a bove tl1e noor.
Exception: Garage spar.es not altarh.l!lt lo an individual dtvelling unit
of a multifarnily ilwelling shall not require a receptacle otitlel in each
vehiclt bay.
(2) Accessory Buildings. In each accessory building wilh elec-
tric power.
(3) Basements. In each separate unfinished portion of a base-
ment.
(H) Hallways. In dwelling uni.ts, hallways of 3.0 m (10 [t) or
more in length shall have at least one receptacle outlet.
As used in tl1is subsection, the ha llway length shall be consid-
ered the length along lhe centerline of the hallway without'
passing through a doo1way.
(I) Foyers. f oyers ~hat are not part of a hall way in accordance
witJ1 210.52( H ) and tJ1at have an area that is greater than
5.6 nl (60 ft') sh,1ll have a receptacle(s) located in each wall
space 900 mm (3 ft) or more in widtJ1. Doorways, doo1~side
windmvs that extend to the noor~ and similar openings shall
nol be considered wall space.
210.60 Guest Rooms, Guest Suites, Dormitory Units, and Simi-
lar Occupancies.
(A) General. Guesl rooms or guesl suites in hotels or motels.
sleeping rooms in dormitory w1itS, and sim.ilar occupancie~
shall have receptacle out.lets installed in accordance with
2 l0.52(A) and (D) . Guest rooms 01· guest suites provided wilh
permane nt provisions for cooking shall have receptacle outlet5
installed in accordance witJ1 all of t.l1e applicable rules in
210.52.
(B) Receptacle Placement. 111e total numbe r of receptacle
outlets shall not be less than required in 210.52(A). These
receptacle outlets shall be permitted to be located conveniently
for permanent ftm1i tm·e la)•out. At least two receptacle outlets
shall be readily accessible. Where receptacles are installed
behind tJ1e bed. the receptacle shall be located to prevent the
bed from contacting any attachment plug that may be installed
or the receptacle shal l be provided witJ1 a sujtable guard.
210.62 Show Windows. At least one 125-volc, single-phase, 15-
or 20-ampere-rated receptacle outlet shall be irL~talled within
450 mm (18 in .) of tl1e top of a show window for each
70--70
3.7 Ii.near .m ( 12 linear ft) or major fracti.on thereof of show
window area meas1.u·ed horizontally at it~ maximum width.
210.63 Equipment Requiring Servicing. A 125-volt, single-
phase, 15- or 20-am pere-raled receptacle outle t shall be
installed at an acce.'isible location within 7.5 m (25 ft) of the
equipment as specified in 210.fi3(A) and (B) .
(A) Heating, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration Equipment.
The required receptacle outlet shall be located on the same
level a~ the heating, au'--cond.itioning, and refrigeration equip-
ment. The receptacle outlet sha ll not be connected to the load
side of the equipment's branch-circuit d isconnecting means.
E:,;ception: A rect>ptade o-utlet shall not. bt required at one- and IW<>-
Ja,mily dwellingsfor the seivim ofevaporativPciwlers.
(B) Other Electrical Equipment. Tn o tl1e1· than one- and two-
family dwellings, a receptacle outlet sh all be located as speci-
fied in 210.63(B) ( 1) and (B) (2) .
(J) Indoor Service E<]uipmenL The required receptacle outlet
shall be located within the same room or area as t.l1e service
equipment.
(2) Indoor Equipment Requiring Dedicated Equipment
Spaces. Where equipment, other tJ1ai1 service equipment,
requires dedicated equipment space as specified in 1 l0.26(E ),
the required receptacle outlet shall be located within the same
room or area as tl1e elecu·ical equipment and shal l not be
connected to the load side of the equipment's branch-circuit
disconnecting means.
210.65 Meeting Rooms.
(A) General. Each meeting room o[ not more than 93 m 2
( 1000 fl~) in otJ1er than dwell ing unit~ sha ll have o utlern fo1·
non.locking-type, 125-volt, 15- or 20-ampere receptacles. The
outlet. shall be installed in accord<Ulce with 210.6.~(B). \.\There
a room or space is provided with movable partition(s), each
room size shal l be determined witl1 tl1e partition in tl1e position
tl1at result5 i.n the smalles t size meeting room.
lnfom1ationa.l Note No. 1: For d1e purposes of r.h'is section,
meeting rooms are ty pically rlesigned or intended for the gath-
ering of seated occupants for such purposes as conferences,
deliberations, or similar purposes, where portable e lectronic
ec1u.ipme m such as computers, projectors, or simjbr equipment
is likely Lo be used.
Informational Note No. 2: Examples of rooms chat are not meet-
ing rooms include auditoriums, schoolrooms, and coffee shops.
(B) Receptacle Outlets Required. The total number of recep-
tacle outlet~. inclucl.iJ1g floor outlets and receptacle outlets in
fixed furniture, shall not be less lhan as determined in ( 1) and
(2) .
(J) Receptacle Out.leis in Fixed Walls. The 1·equired number
o[ receptacle o utlets shall be determined in accordance witJ1
210.52(A)(1) through (A)(4) . These receptacle o utlets shall be
permittecl. to be located as determined l)y the installer,
designet~ or building owner.
(2) Floor Outlets. A meeting room with a ny Ooor dimension
that is 3.7 m ( .I 2 fl) or greate r in any direction and that has a
floor area of at least 20 m~ (215 ft2 ) shall have at leasl one floor
receptacle outl.e t, 01· al lea~L one floor o u1Jet to serve recepta-
cle(s), located at a di.stance not Jess than 1.8 m (6 f-t) from any
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 A RTTCLE 215 -
fixed wall for each 20 m 2 (215 ft2) or major portion of floor
space .
Informa tional Nore No. l : See 314.27(8) for tloor boxes used
fo r receptacle~ locared in the floor.
ln fonmJcional Nole No. 2: See Article 5 18 for a~se,ubly occupan-
cies designed for LOO o r more persons.
210.70 Lighting Outlets Required. Lig ht ing outlets shall be
installed where specified in 2 10.70(A), ( B), and (C) .
(A) Dwelling Units. In dwelling unit5, lighting outlet~ sha ll be
installe d in accordance with 21 0.70(A)( l ). (A)(2), a nd (A)(3) .
(1) Habitable Rooms. At least one lighting outlet con trolled
by a listed wall-mmmted conu·ol device shq]I be installed in
eveiy h abita ble room, kitche n , and bathroom. The wall-
mounted conu·ol device shall be localed nea1· an e nu,1nce to
the room on a wall.
Ex«,ptinn No. 1: In other than lritrlums and balhromns, onr. or morf
rec&ptac/,es controlled by a lifted wall-11wunted con/ml device slwLl be
pcnniltfd in lifu of lighting outle/.s.
Ext:fption No. 2: Lighting outlets shall br prrrnitted to be contmllfd by
ocmpancy sensors that are (1) in nddition to listed wall-moimled
i:ontrot d;,vii:es or (2) lomtrd al ri customary w111/ switdt loc£1tion and
equij1ped with. (I mam1al override thal toill allot.ii thf sensor to function
as a wall switrh.
(2) Additional Locations. Additiona l lig hting outlets shall be
i1uralled in accordance with the following:
(l ) At lea5t one lig hLing outlet controlled by a listed wal l-
mounted conu·ol device shall be installed in ha llways,
stairways, attac hed garages, and detached garages with
e lecu·ic power.
(2) for dwelling uni ts, attached garages, and detached
garages with elecu·ic powet~ at l.ea5t one lighting outlet
controlled by a listed wall-mounted con trol device sha ll
be installed to provide illumination on the exterior side
of outdoor entrances or exits with grade-level access. A
vehicle door i.n a garage sha ll not be conside red a.5 an
outdoor enu-ance o r exit.
(3) \i\7here one or more ligh ting outlet(s) are installed for
interior stairways, tl1ere shall be a listed wall-moun ted
control device a t each floor level a.nd landing level tha t
in cludes an e nu-yway to control the lig hting outle t (s)
where the stairway between floor levels ha5 six riser o r
more.
l!):crption to (A)(2)(1), (f\)(2)(2), 11n1t (f\)(2)(3): In hallways, in
stairways, and al ouldoor entrancPs, mmote, central, or autmnatic
i:ontrol of fighting shall /Jr, pmnitlrd.
( 4) Lig hting outlet5 controlled in accordance witl1 2 10.70(A)
(2)(3) shall not be conu·olled by ll~e of listed wall-
mow1.ted cono·ol devices unless they provide the full
range of dimming conn·ol at e ach location.
(B) Guest Rooms or Guest Suites. In hoteL5. mote ls, o r similar
occupa ncies, guest rooms or g uest suites sh all have a t least o ne
lighting ouLlet conn·olled by a listed wall-mo unted conu-ol
device iru,talled in every ha bitable room a nd bathroom.
l!.xception No. 1: in other tluin bathrooms and kitclu·ns where prrJt!ided,
onf or nUJre receptacles controlled by a listed wall-mounted con/ml device
shall be permitted in liru of lighting IJtLilets.
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL E LECTRICAL CODE
FEEDERS 215.2
Exception No. 2: Lighting outlets shall br pnwtitled lo be controlled by
occnj)mwy sensors Llwl are ( 1) £n addition lo listed Wllllr11wtmled
wnlrol devicts or (2) located at a cuslomtl1)' wall swilrh In cation and
rquip,ped with r1 mamwl ov1'1Tide that allotus 1hr semor to funrtion as
a wrdl switch_
(C) All Occupancies. For attics and w1.de1floo r spaces , utility
rooms, and ba5ements, a t lea5t o n e lig hting o utle t conta ining a
switch or conu·olle d by a wall switc h or listed wall-mounted
conn·ol device sha ll be instal led where these spaces are used for
storage Ol- contain equipment requit-ing servicing. A point of
control shall be at each enu-y that permit~ access to tl1e attic
a nd underfl oor space, utili ty room , or baseme nL. \'\1h e re a lig ht-
ing outlet is installed for equipment req uir ing service, tl1e lig·ht-
i ng outlet sh a ll be installed at or near tl1e equipme nt.
ARTICLE 215
Feeders
215.l Scope. This article co vers the insta lla tion require ment~,
overcurre nt protectio n require men ts, minimLUn size , and
ampacity of conducto rs fo r feeders.
Exception: Feedn~ for electrolytic cells as covered in 668.J(C)( l ) and
(C)(4).
215.2 Minimum Rating and Size.
(A) Feeders Not More Than 1000 VoJts.
(l) General. f eed er conductors shall have an ampacity not
less than the larger of 21.'>.2(A) (]} (a) or (A)(]) (b) and shall
comply with ll 0.14(C) .
(a) '"'h ere a feeder su pplies continuous loads or a ny
combination of continu oLL5 and noncontinuous loarfa, tl1e
minimLtm feeder conductor size ~hall have a n ampacity not less
than the no ncontinuotL5 load plus 125 pe rcen.c of the continu-
ous load.
txception No. 1: 1cf the assembly, inrtuding thP ovetrnrrent rleoires
prote,;ting tlw feeder(.~), is listrd for oj1emlion at I 00 percent of ils
ra:ling, the am.padty of th,,feeder conductors shall be pennil/ed ta be not
fi,ss than the sum ofthe rontinuous load plus the nonr:ontinuous load.
Excepti<m No. 2: \iWiere a /Jortion of a feedflr is c<mnected at both its
.mp/J/:j and load ends lo sPfi4ratef:v installed pressure connections CL,
rnvemd in 110.l 4(C)(2), it shall be pennittnL to hav,1an ampr.1cil~ no/
less than lhe smn of the continuou.r lnad f1/u:; the nonconti:n·iwiL5 load.
No po1tio11 of a feeder insll1lftd wuwr tfiL5 exar/1tion J /ut!f extend into
a:n enclosure containing eithn the feeder su/>ply or the f eedfr [o(ld lPrmi-
nations, as 1;ov111r,d in 110.14(C)(1 ).
Exception No. 3: Grmmded mnduclors tlwt are no/ mnnl'CtPd to an
overrnrrent devim sh(lll he penn£1ted lo bP sized al 100 perrenl of lit/'
c<mtin uom and noncontinuous load.
(b) The minimum feeder conducto r size sha ll have an
ampacit1, not less than th e maximum load to be 8erved after the
a pplication of any adjustment or correc tio n factors in accord-
ance with 310.1 4.
lnformaf.iona l Note No. l : See Examples DJ d1rough D 11 in
lnfr,rmative Annex D.
70-71
215.2 ARTICLE 2 15 - FEEDERS
lnformat.ional Nme No. 2: Conductors for feeders, as c;iefined in
Article LOO. sized ro prevent a voltage drop exceed ing 3 percenL
at the farthest outlet of' power, heating, and light.ing loads, or
cornbinat.ions of such loads. and where d1e maxi.mum total volt-
age drop on both feeders and b ranch circuits m the far1 hes1
outlet does not exceed 5 percent, will provide reasonable effi.
ciency of operat.ion.
Informational Note No. 3: See 2IO.l 9(A) , Info rmational Note
No. 4, fot voltage drop for bran ch circuits.
(2) Grounded Conductor. The size of the feeder circuil groun-
ded condu ctor sha ll not be smal ler than that required by
250.1 22, except that 250.1 22(F) shall not apply whe re grolm-
ded conductor5 a re run in paral lel.
Additiona l mi nimum sizes shall be as specified in 215.2(A)
(3) u nder th e cond itio ns sti pula ted.
(3) Ampacity Relative to Service Conductors. The feeder
co ndu ctor ampacity sha ll not be less than that of th e service
conductors where the feeder conductor s can-y the tota l load
supplied by service condu ctors with an ampacity of 55 am peres
or less.
(B) Feeders over 1000 Volts. The a mpacicy of conduCLors s hall
be in accordance with 310.14 and 311.60 as applicable. Where
installed, th e size of the feeder-circuit grow1ded con ductor
sh all not be sma lle r than that requi red by 250.1 22, except rh at
250. J22 (F) sha ll not apply where grounded conductors are rw1
in parall el. Feeder conductors over I 000 volts sha ll be sized in
accordance with 2 15.2(B)( I), (B) (2), or (B) (3) .
(1) Feeders Supplying Transformers. The a mpacity of feeder
conductors shall not be less than the sum of the na me plate
ratings of Lhe tra nsforme rs sup p.lie d when only transformers
are suppli ed.
(2) Feeders Supplying Transformers and Utilization Equip-
ment. T he am pacity of feeders su pplying a combination of
transforme rs a nd u tilization equipmen t sha ll not be less tha n
the swn of the namepla te ratings of the transforme1·s a nd
125 percen t of the designed potential load of the utilizatio n
equipmem that,vi ll be o pe rated sim ultanenu~ly.
(3) Supervised Installations. Fot· su pe1·vised installa tions,
feeder conductor sizing sha ll be permitted to b e determined by
qualified persons unde r engineering supervision in accord ance
with 3 10.l 4( B) or 3l l.60( B) . Supervised installations are
defined as Lhose portions of a facility where all of the following
conditions are met:
(1) Conditions of design a nd ir1~talla tio.n a1·e provided under
engi neering supe1-vision.
(2) Qualified persons with documen ted tn.in i.ng a nd expe1i-
e nce in over 1000-volt systems provide maintenan ce,
monitoring, a nd serviciJ1g of the system.
215.3 Overcurrent Protection. Feeders shall be prorected
against overcu rren t in accordan ce with Part 1 or Ar ticle 240.
Whe1·e a feeder sup plies continuo us loads or a ny combination
of continuo us and noncontin uou~ loads, the ra ting of th e over-
curre nt d evice shall not be less Lha n the no ncontin uous load
plus 125 pe1-cel1l of the contin uous lo<1d.
Excej>tion: Wherr thr as.mmbly, including the (J(Je1nmrml devites
protn:ting the jPeder(s ), is listed for o/Jeration al LOO j,e,r;en.t of ifs
rating, the am/Jere mting rif the overrnmmt devicr slwfl be pP.nniUed to
be nnl less than t.l,e sum oft.!tP rnntin'ttmls load plus the nonconliniww
load.
70-72
215.4 Feede1-s wilh Common Neutral Conductor.
(A) Feeders with Common Neutral. Up to tlu·ee set5 of 3-wire
feeders or Lwo set~ of 4-wire or 5-wfre feeders sha ll b e permitted
to utilize a com mo n neutral.
(B) In Me tal Raceway or .Enclosure. ,i\,'here Lnstalled in a me tal
raceway o r oth er metal enclosu re, a ll conductors of a ll feed ers
using a commo n ne utral conductor sha ll be e nclosed within
the same raceway or 0 Lhe1· e nclosure a~ requi red in 300.20.
215.5 Diagrams of Feeders. If required by the a utho rit)'
havi ng jurisdictio n, a d iagra m s howin g feeder details shall be
p rnvided prior to t he installa tion of th e feeders. Such a
diagram sha ll show the a rea in square feet of the building or
other su·ucture supplied by each feeder, the total calcul ated
load before applyi ng demand fact.ors, the demand factors used,
the calculated load after applying dema nd factors, and tl1e size
and typ e of cond ucto rs to be m ed .
215.6 Feeder Equipment Grounding Conductor. \<\fhere a
feeder supplies branch circuit~ in whicl1 equipment grounding
con d uctors are required, the feeder sh a ll in clude or provide an
equipment ground ing cond uctor, to whic h th e e quipme n t
grounding cond uc tors of the bra nch circuits shall be connec-
ted. Wher e the feeder supplies a separate building or su·ucture,
the re quirement~ of 250.32 shall apply.
215.7 Ungrounded Conductors Tapped from Grounded
Systems. Two-wire de c ircuits and ac c ircui ts of two 0 1· more
u ngrotmded con d uctors sh a ll be pe rmitte d to be tapped from
the tu1grounded conductors of circu its having a grou nded
n euu·al conductor. SwiLching de vices in each ta pped circui l
shall h ave a pole in each u ngrounded conductor.
215.9 Ground-Faull Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Person-
nel. Feeders shall be per m.itted to h e protected by a grow1d-
faulLc ircuit.interrupter installed iJ1 a readily accessible location
in lie u of the provisions for such interrupte rs as specified in
210.8 and 590.6(A).
215.10 Ground-Fault Protection of Equipment. Each feeder
d isconnect rated IO00 a mperes or m ore an d installed o n solid ly
grounded wye electr ical systems of more tha.n 150 volts to
grow1d, but not exceeding 600 volt5 phase-to-phase, ~hall be
provided witl1 ground-fault protection of equipme nt in accord-
an ce with 230.95.
l nfo rma t.io na l Nme: For bu.il(lings 1.h at cont,,fo health care occu-
pancies, see 517. 17.
1.-'.xcep!.inn Nn. 1: This section shall not aj1ply lo a disconnr.cting nieans
for n continuous industrial proffSS whr<rl' a nrmorderly shnl.down will
introduc,, additional or in.creased haz.mrls.
l!.'xct/1Lion No. 2: This section shall not app{y ifgm1tndfa·1tlt f1mtection
ofequifnnrmt is fYrovi4ed on thr .mf1ply side of lhl' f Pfder rind 1m the load
si.de of any lransfonner S'!Lf>plying the fefde1:
Excl'j1lion No. 3 : If temporary feeder cond1uto1~· are used to wnnect a
genflmlor lo (I farility for repair, nwinlirnance, or emngencies, grm.vndc
fau/J. /1rntection ~f equi/nnent shall not be required. Temporaly feedn:i
without ground-fault pmtection shall he perniilted fnr /he time pnind
necemiry b~il :;hall not. exceed 90 daJw.
215.11 Circuits Derived from Autotransformers. Feeders shal l
n ot be derived from au totransformers un less the system
supplied has a grounded conduc trn· tl1qt is elecffically connec-
ted to a grounded conducto r of the system supplying th e a uto-
transformer.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 220- BRANCH-CIRCUIT, FEEDER, AND SERVICE LOAD CALCULATIONS
Excepi·ion No. 1: An autotransformer shall be pemlitted without lhe
connection to a gmunded rnndw:tor whm! tmnsforming from n nomi-
nal 208 vol!s lo a nmni·nal 240-voll supp{v or similar~ Jmm 240 volls
to 208 volts.
l.xcfption No. 2: in indwlri.nl occupancies, whrre rnndilions of main-
tenance and si1/1eroisinn ensitrf that only quolifi.ed person.t servicr the
imtallation, autotmnsformen shall br permittrd to .rnf>/1/y nornini1l
600-volt lor;ds from nominal 48()..volt systnns, and 480.voll loads from
nominal 600-volt ~ysterns, witlwut lite connertion to a similar gm un-
ded conductm:
215. 12 Identification for Feeders.
(A) Grounded Conductor. The g1·ounded conducto1· of a
feede1; if insulated, shall be identified i.t1 accordance with
200.fi.
(B) Equipment Grounding Conductor. The equipment
grounding conductor shall be identified in accordance with
250.1 19.
(C) Identification of Ungrounded Conductors. Ungrow1ded
conductors shal l be identified in accordance with 2 I5.12(C) ( l )
or (C)(2), as ,1pplicable.
(1) Feeders Supplied from More Than One Nominal Voltage
System. \!\There tl1e prem.ises wiring system has feeders
supplied frbm more than one nominal voltage system, each
ungrounded conductor of a fee der shall be identified by phase
or line and system ar all termination, connection, and splice
points in compliance with 2 15.12(G) (1) (a) and (b).
(a) Means of ldentijiration. The means of ide ntification
shal l be permitted to be by separate color coding, marking
tape, tagging, or other approved means.
(b) Posting ofldrmtification Means. The method utilized for
conductors 01·iginating wi thin each feeder panelboard or simi-
lar feeder distribution equipment shall be documented in a
marn1er that is readily available or shall be permanently posted
at each feeder panelboard or simila1· feeder disu-ibution equip-
ment.
(2) Feeders Supplied from Direct-Current Systems. Where a
feeder is supplied from a de system operati11g at more than
6() volts, each ungrnu11ded conductor of 4 AWG or larger shall
be identified by polarity al all termination, connection, and
splice point~ by marking tape, tagging. or other approved
means; each ungrounded conductor of 6 AWG or smal.le1- shall
be identified by polarity al all termination, connection, and
splice points in compliance with 215.12(C) (2) (a) and (b) . The
identification methods utilized for conductors originating
within each feeder pwelboard o r _simila1· feeder distribution
equipm em shall be documentect in a manner tha,t is readily
available or shall be permanently posted at each feeder panel-
board or similar feeder disu·ibution equipment.
(a) Positivf Polw·ily, Sizes 6 A WG or Srnalle1: 'Where the posi-
tive polarity of a de system does not serve as tl1e co11nectio11 for
the grounded conductor, each positive ungrounded conductor
shall be identified by one of the following means:
(1) A continuous red outer finish
(2) A continuous reel stdpe durably marked a long the
conductor's entire lengtl1 011 insulation of a color other
than green, white, gray, or black
(3) Imprinted plus signs (+) or the word POSITIVE or POS
dw-ably marked on insulation of a colrn· otl1er than
green, wh ite, gray, 01· black, and repeated at intervals noL
exceeding 610 mm (24 in.) in accot·dance with 310.S(B)
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL ELECTRICAL GODE
220.5
(4) An approved permanent marking means such as sleeving
or shrink-tubing tliat is suitable for the conductor size, at
all ternlinatiou, connection, and splice poinL5, witl1.
imprinted plus signs (+) or tl1e word POSITIVE or POS
durably marked 011 insulation of a color other tl1an
g1·een, wh ite, gray, or black
(b) Nr.gativP Po(arity, Sizes 6 A WG or Smalle1: \\There the
negative polarity of a de system does not serve as tl1e connec-
tion for the grounded conductor, each negative LU1grouncled
conducto1· shal l be identified b)' one of the following means:
(1) A con ti.nuou.5 black o uter finish
(2) A continuous black stri pe dw·ably ma1-ked along the
conductor's entire le ngth on insuJati.on of a color otlu;r
than green, white, gray, or red
(3) lmpri.t1ted minus signs (-) or tl1e word NEGATIVE or
NEC durably marked on insulation of a color other than
gi·een, white, gray, or red, and repeated at intervals not
exceeding 610 mm (24 in.) in accordance witl1 3 10.S(B)
(4) An approved permanent ma1·king means such a5 sleeving
or shrink-tubing that is suitable for the conductor size, at
all termination, connection, a nd splice point~, witl1
imprinted mimrn signs (-) or the word NEGATIVE o r
NEG durably marked 011 insulation of a color other thw
green, white, gray, or red
ARTICLE 220
Branch-Circuit, Feeder, and Service Load
Calculations
Part I. General
220 .1 Scope. This article provides requirement5 for calcnlat-
ing branch-c ircuit, feede1; and service k,ad5. Part 1 pi-ovides
general requirements for calculation meth()d5. Part II provides
calculation metl10cL5 for branch-circuit loads. Part5 ID and IV
provide calculation methods for reeder and service loads.
Part V provides calculation methods for farm loads .
Informationa l Note No. I, See examples in Informative
Annex D.
[nformational Note No. 2: See Figure 220.1 for informal.ion on
che organi1.alion of Anide 220.
220.3 Other Articles for Specific-Purpose Calculations. Table
220.3 shall provide references for specific-pLU·pose calculaLion
requirements not located in Chapters 5, 6, or 7 that amend or
supplement the requirement5 of tl1is a.rticle.
220.5 Calculations.
(A) Voltages. Unless Other voltages are specified, for purposes
of calculating branch-circuit and reeder loads, nominal system
voltages of J 20, 120/ 240, 208Y/ J20, 240, 347, 480¥/277, 480,
600¥/ 34-7, and 600 volt~ shall be used.
(B) Fractions of an Ampere. Calculations shall be permitted to
be rOLmded ro the nearest whole ampe1°e, witl1 decimal frac-
tions smaller tl1an 0.5 dropped.
70-73
220.10 ARTICLE 220- BRANCH-CillCUIT, FEEDER, AND SERVICE LOAD CALCUIATIONS

(B) Energy Code. Where the building i~ designed and

Part I General
constructed to comply with an energy code adopted by th e
local authority, the lighting load shall be permitted to be calcu-
lated using the un it values specified in the energy code where
the following conditio ns are met:
Part II Branch-circuit load calculations
( I) A power moniw1-ing system is installed tllat will provide
contiJrnou s in formation regarding the total general lig ht-
ing load of th e build ing.
Part IV (2) The power mon itoring system 1vi.ll be set with alarm
Part Ill
220.61 Optional
Feeder and values to alert the building owner or m anager if tl1e light-
Neutral feeder and
service load ing load exceecl~ the values set by the en e rgy code. Auto-
Loads service load
calculations matic means lo take action to 1-educe the connected load
calculations
shall h e permitted .
(3) The demand facto rs specified in 220.42 are noLapplied to
Farm dwellings Farm dwellings the general lighting load.
only only (4) The continuous lm1d multiplier of l 2!'i percent sha ll be
applied.
220.1 4 Other Loads - AH O cc·u pancies. In alJ occupa ncies,
Part V Farm load calculations the minimum load for each outlet for genera.I-use receptacles
and outleL~ not u sed for general illumination shall not be less
FIGURE 220.J Branch-Circuit, Feeder, and Service Load tl1a11 that calculated in 220.l 4(A) through (M), tl1e loads
Calculation Methods. shown being hased on nominal br;m ch-circ;uit voltages.
1'..'xctj1Linn: The loads of nullets serving switchbolvrds and switching
Part II. Branch-Circuit Load Calculations Jmmes in t,eleplwne fxclumges shall b~ waived from the mlc1.dalions.
220.10 General. Branch-circuit loads shall be calculated as (A) Specific Appliances or Loads. A J1 outlet for· a specifi c
shown in 220.12, 220.1 4, and 220.16. appliance or otl1er load not covered in 220. J4(B) tl1rough (M)
shall be caln1lated based on the ampere rating of tl1e appliance
220.11 Floor Area. The floor area fo r each floor sha ll be calcu- or load served .
lated from the o ut5ide dimensions of the building, dwelli.ng
unit, or other area involved. For dwelling units, the calculated (B) Electric Dryers and Electric Cooking Appliances in Dwell-
fl oor area shall not include open porches, garages, or unused ings and Household Cooking Appliances Used in Instructional
or nnfini.shed spac;:es not adaptable for furu,re use. Programs. Load calcula tio ns sha ll be permitted as specified in
220.54 for electric dryers and in 220.55 for electric ranges ,md
220.12 Lighting Load for Non-Dwelling Occupancies. other cookiJ1g appliances.
(A) General. A unit load of not les, than tJ1at specified in (C) Motor Outlets. Loads for motor outlet~ ~hall be calc11lated
Table 220.12 fo r non-dwelling occupancies and the floor are a in accordan ce wi.t h the require ments in 430.22, 430.24, and
determined in 220.11 shall be used to calcLLlate the miJ1imum 440.6.
lighting load. Motors rated less tl1an 1/g HP and con nected to a
lighting circuit shall be considered general lighting load. (D) Luminaires. An o utle t supplying luminaire(s) shall be
calculated based on tl1e max.imum volt-ampere rating of tl1e
Informa tional Note: The 11ni1 values of Tohle 220.12 are based equipment and lamps for whic h ilie luminaire(s) is i-ated.
on minimum load condirjons and 100 percem power facwr an<l
may 1101 provide sufticiem capacity for the insLallai.lon cnmem- (E) Heavy-Duty Lampholders. Outlets for h eavy-du ty lam p-
p laterl. holde1·s shall be calcu lated at a minimum o1' 600 volt-amperes.

Table 220.3 Specific-Purpose Calculation References

Calculation Article Section ( or Part)

Air-conditioning and n::h;gerating equipme nt, br,mch- 44.0 Part N
c-ircuit conductor sizing
Fixed clccuic heating equipmer\t for pipelines and vc~scls. 427 4.27.4
branch-circuit sizing
.Fixed e lt'Cl.ric space-hearing equipment, br,lnch-circuil sizing 424 424.3
.Fixed o utdoor electric deicing and snow-melting equipment, 42(j 426.4
branch-circuit ,izing
Motors, feeder demand faCLor 430 4.30.26
:\fotors, multi.motor and combin<ltion-Joad cq uipmcm 430 430.25
Mo tors, several mo tors or a motor(s) and otber load(s) 430 430.24.
Over 600-voli. branch-circuit calCLLla1iom 2]() 2J0.19(B)
Over 600-volt feeder calcula tions 215 2l 5.2(B)
Pha.~e c<rnveners, conducto rs 4nf> 455.6
St orage-type wate1- hc.1ters 422 422. ll (E)

70--74 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020 Edition

 ARTICLE 220- BRANCH-CIRCUIT, FEEDER, AND SERVICE LOAD C'.ALCULATIONS 220.14

Table 220.12 General Lighting Loads by Non-Dwelling (H) Fixed Multioutlet Assemblies. Fixed 111ultiouLle1. assem-
Occupancy blies used in other th<lll dwelling units or the g uest rooms or
guest suites of h otel.s or motels sha ll be calculated in accord-
Unit Load a nce with (H ) ( 1) or (H ) (2) . For the purposes of this section,
the calculation shall be permitted to be based o n the portion
Volt-amperes/ Volt-amperes/ that contains receptacle outlet~.
,
Type of Occupancy m- ft2
(l) ·w here appliances are w1likely to be lL~ecl simultaneously,
Automotive fac ility 16 1.5 each 1.5 m (5 ft) or fraction thereof of each separate and
Convc11tion ccnte ,- l !j 1.4 conti11uotL~ length shall be considered as o ne o utlet of
Counh.ous(· 15 1.4 not less than 180 volt-amperes.
Dormitory 16 1.5 (2) Where appliances are like ly to be used simultaneously,
Exercise center 15 l .4 each 300 mm ( I fL) o r fraction tl1ereof shall be consid-
Fin: station 14 1.3 e red as an outlet of not less than 180 volt-am peres.
Gymnasium" 18 J.7
Healtl1care clinic 17 1.6 (l) Receptacle Outlet.$. Except a5 covered in 220. 14(1) and
Hospital 17 1.6 (K), receptacle outlets shall be calcula ted a,t not less than
Ho tels ,\nd 111o tels, 18 1.7 180 volt-ampe res fo r each single oi- for each multi ple recepta-
includ ing ap:u·tmcnt cle o n one yoke. A single piece of equipment consL~ting of a
houses without provisions multi ple receptacle comprised of four or more receptacles
for cooking by tenants" shall be calculated at no t less tl1an 90 volt-amperes per recepta-
Library 16 1.5 cle. This provision shall not be applicable to the receptacle
ManufaCtLuing facility" 24 2.2 outlet5 specified i.J1 210.l L(C) (l ) and (C)(2) .
Motion picture theater 17 1.6 Q) Dwelling Units. In one-fmnily, two-family, and multifamily
Museum 17 l.6 dwelli.J1.gs, Lhe minimum LLnit load sh a ll be not less tJ1an '.~3 volt-
Officerl 14 1.3
amperes/ m~ (3 volt-amperes/ fc2) . The ligh ti.J1g and receptacle
Parking garage" 3 0.3
o utlet~ s pecified in 220. l 4(J)( l ) , Q)(2), and (1)(3) are inclu-
Pe nitentiary 13 1.2
ded in the minimum unit load. No addi tional load calculations
Performing arts theater 16 1.5
shall be required for such outlets. The minimum lighting load
Police statio n 14 1.3
s hall be determined using th e minimum unit load and tl1e
Post office 17 1.6
floor a rea as dete rmined in 220.l l for dwelling occupancies.
Re Ligious facility 24 2.2
Restauran{ , Motors rated less than Ys hp and connected to a lig hting c ircuit
l6 1-5
Rctail8·" 20 l.Y shall b e cons idered part of the 111.inimum lig hting load.
School/ universil)' 33 3 ( 1) All general-use receptacle outleL~ of 20-ampere rating or
SporL~ arena 33 3 less, includ i.J1g receptacles connected to tl1.e circuits in
Townh<1U 15 1.4 210.ll (G)(3) and210.ll (C)(4)
Transportation 13 1.2 (2) 1l1e receptacle outlets specified in 210.52(E) and (G)
Warehouse 13 U2 (3) TI1e lighting o utlets specified in 2 10.70
Workshop 18 1.7
(K) Office Buildings. In office btr.ild ings, the receptacle loads
No Le: 171e 125 percenL m ulciplier for a concinuous load as specified in
shall b e calculated to be the larger of (l ) or (2) :
210.20(A) is included when using the unit loads in Lhis table for
calculating the rninimLLm lighcing load for a specit-ied occupancy. (l ) TI1e calculaterl load from 220. 14(I) after a ll demand
"Armories and auditoriums are considered gymnasiunHyPe factors have b ee n a_pplied
occupancies. (2) ll yolt-amperes/m~ o r l volt-ampe re/ ff
bLodge rooms are similar to hotels and motels.
(L) Other Outlets. OtJ1er outlet~ not covered in 220.1 4(A)
' lndusrrial cornmercial loft bufldings are considered manufacruring-
through (K) shall be calculated based on 180 volt-amper es per
type occupancies.
outlet.
dBanks are office-type occupancies.
cGarages - commercial (storage) are considered parking garage (M) Hotel and Motel Occupancies. In g uest rooms or guest
occupancies. suites of h otels a nd m otels, tl1e lighting mi.cl receptacle outlet~
1
Clubs are considered reswuranc occupancies. specified i.J1220.l 4(M)( l ), (M)(2), and (M)(:I) a re included in
•'Barber .shop~ and beauty parlors are considered retail nccupancies. 1J1e minimum unit load in Table 220. l 2. No additional load
hStores are considered retail occupancies. calculations shal l be requi red for such o u tle ts. The 111.i.J1i.mum
lig hting load shall be determined using the mini.Ju um unit load
and the floor area as determined in 220.11 fo.r hotel a nd motel
(F) Sign and Outline Lighting. Sign and outline Lighting occupanc ies.
outlets shall be calculated at a nunimum or 1200 volte-amperes
for each required bra n ch circuiL specified in 600.5(A) . (I) All generah1se receptacle outlet~ of 20-ampere rating or
less, including receptacles connec ted to the circuits in
(G) Show Windows. Show windows shall h e calcula te d in 210.11 (C) (:\) and 21O.ll (C) (4)
accordance with either of the fo llowing: (2) T he receptacle outlets specified i.J1 210.52(E) (3)
( L) The unit load per outlet a~ req11i1-ed in other provis'ions (3) The lighting outlets specified in 210.70
of th is section
(2) At 200 volt-amperes per linear 300 mm ( 1 ft) of show
window

2020 ll(lirjon NATIONAL £LllCTRIC.AL CODE 70-75

220.16 ARTICLE 220-BRANCH-CillCUJT, FEEDER, AND SERVICE LOAD CALCUI.ATTONS

220.16 Loads for Additions to Existing Installations. Table 220.42 Lighting Load Demand Factors
(A) Dwelling Units. Loads added r.o an existing dwelling
un it(s) shall comply with the following as applicable: Portion of Lighting Load to
Which Demand Factor
(1) Load~ for structural additions to an existing dwelling unit Applies Demand
or for a previously unwired portion of an existing dwell- Type of Occupancy (Volt-Amperes) Factor(%)
ing unit shall be calculated in accordance with 220. 14.
(2) Loacl5 for new circ uit5 or extended circuits in previously Dwelling uniL5 First 3000 at ]00
wi1·ed dwelling units shall be calculated in accordance From 3001 to 120.000 at 35
wilh 220.14. Remainder over 120,000 at 2.l'i

(B) Other Than Dwelling Units. Loads for new circu.it5 or and motels,
H oLc:ls First 20,000 o r less a1. 60
extended circuits in other than dwelli ng unit5 sh all be calcula- including From 20,0UJ to l 00,000 at 50
ted in acconlance with eid1er .2 20.12 or 220.14, as applicable. apartment houses Remainder over 1OU ,000 at
wi Lhou t pro~i.sion
220.18 Maximum Loads. The total load shall not exceed the for cooking by
rating of the br,1nch circuit, and it shall not exceed the maxi- tenants* 35
mum loads specified in 220. 18(A) through (C) under the Warehouses First l 2,500 or less at JOO
conditions specified therein. (st0rage) Remainder over J 2,500 a t 50
(A) Motor-Operated and Combination Loads. Where a circuit All others Total volt-amperes JOO
supplies on ly motor-operated loads, Article 430 shall apply.
*The demand fanors of this Lab le shal I not apply to the calculaLed load
Where a circLLit s upplies only air-conditioning equi pment,
refrigerating equ ipment, or both, Article 440 shall apply. for of feeders or services s upplying ar eas in hotels and rnmels where cbe
circuits supplying loads consisting of motor-operated utiliza tion entire lighting is likely r.o be l.Lsecl aL one Lime. as in ballrooms or dining
rooms,
equipment that is fastened in place and has a motor larger
than ½ hp in combination with oLher loads, th,e total calculated
load shall be based o n L25 percent of the largest motor load
plus the sum of the other loads,
(B) Inductive and LED Lighting Loads. For circuits supplying
lighting units Lhat have ballast~, transformers, autotransform- (B) Track Lighting. Fo1· track lighting in other than dwelling
e rs, or LED d rivers, the calculated load shall be based on the units or guest rooms or guest suites of hotels o r mote ls, an
total ampere ratings of such LmiL~ and not o n the mtal watts of additional load of l !'i0 volt-amperes sh all be included for every
die lamps. tiO0 mm (2 ft) o f lighting u-ack or fraction thereof. \!\There
multicircuit u-ack is installed , d1e load shal l be considered robe
(C) Range Loads. ft sha ll be permissib le to apply demand divirled equally between the track circuiL5.
factors ror range loads in accordruice widi Table 220.55, includ-
ing Note 4. J,):aption: if the track lighting is rnppli.ed tlmmgh a device tlwt limits
thP current to the track, the load shall be jm'milled lo be calculated
ba.~nt on the rating of thi' d~vire med lo limit the 1.11:nrmt.
Part ill. Feeder and Service Load Calculations 220.44 Re ceptacle Loads - Othe1· Than DweIJing Units.
220.40 General. T he calculated load of a feeder or se1vice Receptacle loads calculated in accordance wid1 220.l 4(H) and
shall not be less than the sum of the loads on the brru1ch ([) shall be permitted to be made subject to d1e demand
circuits supplied, as determined by Part Ir of thi~ article, after facto rs gi1>en in Table 220.42 or Table 220.44.
any applicable demand factors pem1itted by Pan III or N or 220.50 Motors. Motor loads shall be calculate d in accordance
required by Pan V have been applied. widi 430.24, 430.25, a nd 430.26 llild with 440.6 for hermetic
Informational Nme: See Examples D l(a) through D10 in Infor- refrigerant motor-compressors.
mative Annex D. See 220.18(8) for the maximum load in
amperes permitted for lighting ,.lllil~ operating at less than
100 pe rce m power facio r.
220.42 General Lighting. The demand factors specified in
Table 220.42 sha ll apply to dial portion of die total bra nch- Table 220.44 Demand Factors for Non-Dwelling Receptacle
circuit load calculated for general illumination. They shall not Loads
be applied i11 deLennining the numbe 1- of branch cirn 1its for
general illumination. Portion of Receptacle Load to
Which Demand Factor Applies
220.43 Show-Window and Track Lighting.
(Volt-Amperes) Demand Factor (%)
(A) Show Windows. For show-window l.ighting, ,1 load of not First JO kVA or less al 100
less than 660 volt-amperes/ linear meter or 200 volt-amperes/ Remainder over JO kVA at E>O
linear fool shall be included for a show window, measured hori-
zontally a long its ba~e.
lnfomrntional Note: See 220.l4(G) for branch circuits supplying
show windows.

70-76 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition

 ARTICLE 220- BRANCH-CIRCUIT, FEEDER, AND SERVICE LOAD C'..ALCULATIONS 220.60

220.51 Fixed Electric Space Heating. Fixed elecu-ic space-
heating loads shall be calculated at I 00 percent of the total
crnrnected load. H owever, in no case shaJl a feeder or se1-vice
load curre n t rating b e less tha n the rating of the la rgest bra nch
circuit supplied.
1-.xcP/Jlion: \i\11,,er,, reduced loading of the conductors resulls fmm units
operating on du/;y-{,ydP, intf>nnitten.tl;y, orfmm all ·1,miti not opmiting
al the same lim P, the aur,hority having jurisdiction mny gmnt. /Jt1·111is-
sum for jfedl!I" and service amductors to have an ampacity less than
100 fiucent, pmvided the condw:tors havP an am.pacify for !he lond so
dl'tenninerl.
220.52 Small-Appliance and Laundry Loads - Dwelling Unit.
(A) Small-Appliance Circuit Load. In each d welling l Ulit, the
load s ha ll be calculated at lEi00 volt-ampe1·es for each 2-wire
sma ll-a ppliance branc h circui t as covered by 210.ll (C)(l ) .
Whe re the load is subdivided th rough two o r mo re feeders , the
calculated load for each sh all include not Le.~s than 1500 volt-
a mperes fo r each 2-wire small-applia nce branch circuit. These
loads sha ll be pe rmitted to be included with the general ligh t-
ing load a nd subjected ro the de mand factors provide d i11 Ta ble
220.42.
Exception: nw individuol branrh circuit t1wmitted by 210.52(B)(l),
.t'xception No. 2, shall be permitted lo be excluded jh,rn Lhe calrnlation.
required by 220.52.
(B) Laundry Circuil Load.. A load of n ot less tha n 1500 volt-
a mperes shall be incl uded for each 2-wire laund ry bra nch
circuil install ed as cove red by 2 10. l J (C)(2) . This load shall be
pe nnitte d to be included witJ1 the general lig hti11g load a nd
sh all be sul~ected to t he demand factors provided in Ta ble
220.42.
220.53 Appliance Load - DweJling Unit(s) . lt shall be permis-
sible to a pply a deman d factor of 75 percent to the na me plate
rating load of four o r m01·e applia nces rnted 1/i hp or g reater, or
500 watt.~ o r gre ater, tha L a re fastened in place, a nd th at are
served by the same fe eder o r service in a o ne-family, two-family,
o r m ultifa mily dwelling. This de mand facto r shall no t a pply to:
(l ) H o useho ld electric cooking equipme nt th at is fasten ed in
place
(2) Clothei; d ryers
(3) Space heating eq uipme nt:
(4) Aii~cond itioning equipme n t
220.54 Electric Oolhes Dryers - Dwelling Unit(s) . The load
for ho usehold elecu·ic clotJ1es d rye rs in a d welling uJlit(s) shall
be e ither 5000 watts (volt-amperes) or the na meplate rating,
whichever is large r, for each ch·yer served. Th e use of the
demand factors in Table 220.54 shall be permitted. Where two
or more single-phase dryers are supplied by a 3-pha~e, 4-wi.re
feeder or service, the total load shall be calculated o n the basis
o f twice the m axim um number connected be tween a ny two
phases. Kilovolt-ampe res (kVA) shall be considered equivale nt
to ki lowatt5 (kW) for Loads ca lculated in th is section.
Table 220.54 Demand Factors for Household Electric CJothes
Dryers
Number of Demand Factor
Dryers (%)
1-4 lOO
!) 85
6 75
7 65
8 60
9 55
IO r,o
11 47
12- 23 47% minus 1% for each dryer
exceeding 11
24-42 3.5% minus 05% for each dryer
exceeding 23
43 and over 25%
220.55 Electric Cooking Appliances in Dwelling Units and
Household Cooking Appliances Used in Instructional
Programs. The load for househo ld e lectric 1-anges, wall-
mo un ted ovens, coLmte r-mo Lmted cooking mtits, an d o ther
household cooking a ppliances individua lly rated in excess of
11/t kW sha ll be pe rmitted to be calculated in accordance with
Table 220.55. Kilovolt-amperes (k\lA) shall be conside red
equivale n t to kilowatts (kW) for loarl5 calculated l mde r this
sectio n.
Wh ere two o r more singl e-phase ra nges are supplied by a
3-phase, 4-wire feeder 01· ser vice, the total load sha ll be calcula-
ted o n th e basis o f twice 1J1e maximum number connected
between any two phases.
Informa tio na l Nole No. I: See Lh e examples in Informative
Annex D.
Informational Nme No. 2: See Table 220 ..56 lor commercial
cooking equipme n L
220.56 Kitchen Equipme nt - Other Than Dwelling Unit(s). It
shall h e pe rmissible to calcula te the load for comme rcia l e lec-
tric cookir1g equipmem , d ishwashe r booster heaters, wate1·
heaters, a nd o ther kitchen equipment in accorda nce with
Ta ble 220.56. These de ma nd factors shall be a ppli ed to a ll
e quipme nt that has e ither thermosta tic con trol or i.nternlitte nt
use a5 kitch en e quipment. The.~e dema nd fac tors shal l not
apply to space-heating, ventilati ng, o r a ir-conclitioning equip-
ment.
H owever, in no case sha ll Lhe feeder or service cakuh1ted
load be less than the sum of tJ1e la rgest two kitch e n eqLtipment
loads.
220.60 Noncoincident Loads. Whe re it is u nlike ly that two o r
mo re noncoincident loads will be in LL5e simulta neously, it shall
be pe rmissible to use o nly the la rgest load (s) that will be used
at o ne Lime for calcula ting the total load of a feede1· o r service.
\!\The re a moto r is pan of t he no ncoin cident load a nd is not the
largest of th e noncoincident loads, 125 pe rcen t of the moto r
load shall be u sed in the calculation if it is the la rgest mo to1·.

2020 ll\lirjon NATLONAL E LllCTRLC'.AL CODE 70-77

220.60 ARTICLE 220- BRANCH-CIRCUIT, FEEDER, AND SERVICE LOAD CALCULATIONS

Table 220.55 Demand Factors and Loads for Household Electric Ranges, Wall-Mounted Ovens, Counter-Mounted Cooking Units,
and Other Household Cooking Appliances over 1 % kW Rating (Column C to be used in all cases except as otherwise permitted in
Note 3.)

Demand Factor (%) (See Notes) ColumnC

Maximum Demand (kV.')
Column A ColumnB (See Notes)
Number of Appliances (Less than 3½ kW Rating) (3½ kW through 8¾ kW Rating) (Not over 12 kW Rating)
l 80 80 8
2 75 65 11
3 70 55 14
4 66 50 17
5 62 45 20
6 59 43 21
7 56 40 22
8 53 36 23
9 51 3.~ 24
10 49 34 25
11 47 32 26
12 45 32 27
13 43 32 28
14 41 32 29
lf> 40 32 30
16 39 28 31
17 38 28 32
18 37 28 33
19 36 28 34
20 35 28 35
21 34 26 3fi
22 33 26 37
23 32 26 38
24 31 26 39
25 30 26 40
26-30 30 24. 15 kW+ l kW for each range
31-40 30 22
41 -50 30 20 25 kW + ·1/, kW for each rn.11gc
51-60 30 18
61 and over 30 16
Nmes:
I. Over 12 kW lhrough 27 kW ranges a ll of same racing. For ranges individually rated more lhan 12 kW but not more than 27 kW; the maximum
demand in Column C sh;ul he increased .5 percent for each additional kilowan of rating or major fract.ion thereof by which che rating of in,;lividLtal
ranges exceeds .12 kW.
2. Over 83/, kW 1.hrougl1 27 kW ranges of unequal rat.ing~. For ranges indivirlua.l ly rated more than 8 ¾ kW and of different ratings. hue none exceerling
27 kW, an average value of racing shall be calcularecl by adding togeLher the raLings ofaU ranges ro obrain the total connected load (using 12 kW for
an y range rated less Lhan 12 kW) and dividing by the total number of ranges. Then the maximtu11 rlemand in Column C shall be increased r, perce nt
for each kilowan 01· major fraction thereof by which 1his average value exceeds 12 kW.
~- Over 13/, kW through 81/, kW. In lieu of the meLhod provided in Column C, iLShall be perm issible m add 1he nameplate ratings or all household
cooki ng appliances rated more than 1-¼ kW but not more chan 8'¼ kW and multiply the sum b y the demano facLOrs specifie,;I in Column A or
Column B for the given number or appliances. Where che rating of cooking appliances falls ,mcler ho1h Column A and Column B, che deman(I
fuccors for each column shall be applied to the appliances for that column, and the result~ added together.
4. Br,rnch-CircuiL Load. II shall -be permissible LO calnJace the branch-circuir .load for one range in accordance with Tab le 220.55. TI1e branch-circuit
load for one wall-mounted oven or one counrer-mow1Led cooking unit shal l be the nameplate rating of the appliance. The branch-circ uit load fora
counte r-mounted cooking unit and nor more th,111 cwr,, wall-mounted ovens, all supplied from a single branch circuit and located in the same room.
shall be calculaLed by adrling the nameplate rating of the individual appliances and treating this total ,L< equivale111 LO one range.
5. TI1is rable shall a lso apply co household cooking appliances raced over I ¾ kW and used in instructional prog1-ams.

70-78 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition

 ARTICLE 220- BRANCH-CIRCUIT, FEEDER, AND SERVICE LOAD CALCULATIONS
Table 220.56 Demand Factors for Kitchen Equipme nt -
Other Thao Dwelling Unit(s)
Demand Factor
Number of Units of Equipment (%)
100
2 100
3 90
4 80
5 70
6and over 65
220.61 Feeder or Service Neutral Load.
(A) Basic CalcuJation. The feeder or service n e urral load shall
be 1be maximnm unbalance of the load determined by this arti-
cle. The maximum unba lanced load sh all be the maximum net
calculated load between the neutral conductor an.cl any one
ungrounde d conductor.
Exception: For 3-win, 2-phaM or 5-wirP, 2-phasP systn11s, the rnaxi-mum
·unbalanad load shall be the rnaximmn nPt calcitlaWJ load bettuPen llu•
nmtt:ra.l 1:ond11ttor rind any onP 1tr1.grol/,n{.led rnn1factor rnultipli./?d by
140 percent.
(B) Permitted Reductions. A service or feeder supplyi11g the
fo llowing loads shall be permitted to have an additional
dema11d factor of 70 percent applied to the amount in
220.61 (B) (I ) or portion of the amount in 220.6 1 (B) (2) dete r-
mined by the foBowing basic calculations:
(1) A feeder or service supplying household e lectric ranges,
wall-mounted ovens, coumer-mowited cooking units, and
electric dryers, where the maximum unbalanced load has
been determined in accordance witJ1 Table 220.5.1'\ for
ranges and Table 220.54 for dryers
(2) That portion of the unbalanced load in excess of
200 amperes where the feeder o r service is supplied Ei·om
a 3-wire de or single-phase ac system ; or a 4-wire, 3-phase
system; or a 3-wire, 2-phase system; or a 5-wire, 2-phase
system
lnforni;1Lional Note: See Ex,1mples Dl (a) , Dl (b), D 2(b), D4(a),
and D.~(a) in In fo rmative Annex D.
(C) Prohibited Reductions. There shall be no reduction of the
neuu·al or grounded conductor capacity appl ied to the amount
in 220 .6 L(C)(l), or portion of tJ1e amoum in (C)(2), from that
cletem1i.ned by the basic calculation:
(l) Any portion of a 3-wire circuit consisting of 2 Lmgroun-
ded conductors and the neutral conductor of a 4-wire, 3-
phase, ,vye-connected system
(2) That portion consisting of nonlinear loads supplied Ei· om
a 4-wire, 1vye-co1mected, 3-phase system
Informational Note: A 3-phase. 4-wire, wye--co nnected power
system llSed ro supply power tO nonlinear loads may necessitate
ll1a1 the po wer system design allow for the possibilit) of high
harmon'ic n eutral conductor curre nLi,
Part IV. Optional Feeder and Service Load Calculations
220.80 General. Optional feeder and service load calculatio ns
shall be permitted in accordance with Part TV.
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL E LECTRICAL CODE
220.82
220.82 Dwelling Unit.
(A) Feeder and Service Load. This sectio n applies to a dweU-
ing unit having the total connected load served by a single
L20/ 240-volt or 208Y/ 120-volt sec of 3-wire service or feeder
conductor-s with a11 ampacity of 100 or greate,·. It shall be
permissible to calculate the feeder and service loads in accord-
a11ce with this section instead of the method specified in
Pa.rt ITT of this artic le. The calculated load shall be the result of
adding the loads from 220.82(8 ) a nd (C). Feede,- a nd se rvice-
enu·ance conductors whose calculated load is deterrn.ined by
this optional calculation shall be permitted to have the neutral
load detem1ined by 2W.61.
(B) General Loads. The general calculated load shall be nor
less than 100 percent of the first 10 kVA plus 40 percent of the
remainder of the fol.lowing loads:
(J ) 33 volt-amperes/m'.!. or 3 volt-amperes/ ft~ for general
lighting and general-u se receptacles. The floor area for
each floor shall be calculated from the o ut5ide dimen-
sions of the dwelling unit. The calculated floor area shall
not in clude open porches, garages, or unused or unfin-
ished spaces n ot adaptable for future use.
(2) 1500 volt-amperes for each 2-wire, 20-a111.pere smal.1-
applia nce bra11ch circuit and each laun<li-y branch c ircuit
covered in 210. ll (C)( l ) and (C)(2) .
(3) The n ameplate rating of the following:
a. All appliances that are fastened in place, pe1·manently
connected, o r located to be on a specific circuit
b. Ranges, wall-mounted ovens, counteHnounted cook-
ing uniL5
c. Clothes dryers that are not connected to the laundry
branch circuit specified in item (2)
cl. Water heatei-s
(4) The nameplate ampere or kVA rating of all permanently
connected motors not included in item (3).
(C) Heating and Air-Conditioning Load. The la1·gesc of the
following six selections (load in kVA) shill be included:
(l ) 100 percent of the nameplate rating(s) of the air concli-
Lioning and cooling.
(2) 100 percent of the nameplate rating(s) of the h eat plrnlp
when die heat pump L5 used without any suppleme ntal
e lectric heating.
(3) 100 percent of the nameplate rating(s) of the heat pump
compressor and 65 percent of the supple mental electric
heating for cenu·al e lectric space-heali ng systems. If tJ1e
heat pump compressor is prevented fro m operating at
the same time as the supple mentary heat, it does not
need to be added to Lhe supplementa1·y heal for tJ1e total
centra l space h eating load.
(4) 65 percent of the nameplate rating(s) of electric ~pace
heating if less tJ1a11 four sepai·ately conu·ol led lllliL5.
(5) 40 percent of the nameplate ratin g(s) of electric space
heating if four or more sepai·ately conu·olled units.
(6) 100 percent of the nameplate ratings of e lectric thennal
storage and other heatu1g systems where the LLmal load is
expected to be continuous at the full nameplate val ue.
Systems q uali fying under this selection sh all not be calcu-
lated under any other· selectio n in 220.82(C).
70-79
220.83 ARTICLE 220- BRANCH-CIRCUIT, FEEDER, AND SERVICE LOAD CALCUIATTONS

220.83 Existing Dwelling Unit. This section shall be permitted 220.84 Multifamily Dwe lling.
to be used to determine if the existing senrice or feeder is of
sufficie nt capacil-y to serve additional loads. Where the dwelling (A) Feeder or Service Load. It shall be permissible to calculate
unit is served by a 120/ 240-volt or 208Y/ 120-volt, 3-wire service, the load of a reeder- or service thaL supplies three or more
it shall be permissible to calculate the tolal load in accordance dwelling units of a multifamily dwelling in accordance with
with 220.83(A) or (B) . Table 220.84 instead of Part ill of this a rticle if all the following
conditions are met:
(A) Where Additional Air-Conditioning Equipment or Electric ( 1) No dwe lli ng unit is supplied by more than one feeder.
Space-Heating Equipment Is Not to Be Installed. The follow- (2) Each dwelling tmit is equipped with elecu-ic cooking
ing percentages shall be LL,ed for existing a nd additional new
eqLtipmen t.
loads.
Excrption: When tlw mlrulated loadfor mnltifhrnily dwellings without
elecl.rit- coo/ling in Par/, ill of lhis article exceeds l.h.al calcula!.erl undr.r
Load (kVA) Percent of Load
Part IV for the identical load /1/us eledric cooking (based on 8 kW per
First 8 kVAof load at 100 unit), 1hr lesser ofthe li.vo loads sh.nil br permit!Pd to bP used.
Remainder of load at 40
(3) Each dwelling unit is equipped wi th e ithe r electric space
heating or air conditioning, or boLh. Feedern ;md service
Load calculations shall include the following: conductors whose calculated load is determined by this
(1) General lighting and general-use receptacles at 33 volr- optional calculation shall be permitted to have the
amperes/ m 2 or 3 volt-amperes/ft2 as determined by neuu·al load determined by 220.fil.
220.12
(B) House Loads. H ou se loads shall be calculated in accord-
(2) 1500 volt-amperes for each 2-wire, 20-ampere small- ance with Par t III o f this article and s hall be in addition to the
appliance branc h circuit and each laund1·y bran.ch circuit dwelling unit loads calcu.lated in accordance with Table 220.84.
covered in 2 10.l l (C) (1) and (C) (2)
(3) The nameplate rating of the following·: (C) Calculated Loads. The calculated load to which the
a. All appliances that are fastened in place, permanently demand factors of Table 220.84 apply shalt include the follow-
connected, or located to be on a specific circuit ing:
b. Ranges, wall-mounted ovens, counter-mounted cook- (l) 33 volt-amperes/m2 or 3 volt~mperes/fti for general
ing un its lig hting and general-use receptacles
c. Clot.hes drye1·s that a re not connected to the latuiclt-y (2) 1500 volt-amperes for each 2-wire, 20-ampere small-
branch circuit specified in item (2) appliance branch circ uit and each latmdry branch circuit
d. Waler heaters covered in 210.11 (C) ( l ) and (C) (2)
(B) Where Additional Air-Conditioning Equipment or Electric
Space-Heating Equipment l'> to Be Installed. The following Table 220.84 Optional Calculations - Demand Factors for
percentages shall be used for existing ,md ;Jdditicmal new loads. Three or More Multifamily Dwelling Units
The larger connected load o.f a ir conditioning or space heat-
ing, but not both, shall be used. N umber of Demand Factor
Dwelling Units (%)
Load Percent of Load 3-.5 45
6-7 44
Air-c()nditioning equipment 100
8-10 43
Ccntrd.l electric space ht'ating JOO
Less than four separdtc ly 100 ll 42
co11tro lled space-heating units 12-13 41
First 8 kVA of all other loads 100 14-15 40
Remainde r of all o ther load;; ,:1-0 16-17 39
18-20 38
Other loads shall include the following: 21 37
(l) General lighting and gene ra.I-use receptacles at 33 volt- 22-23 36
amperes/ m 2 or 3 volt-amperes/ ft~ a~ determined by 24-25 35
220.1 2 2f>-27 34
(2) 1500 volt-amperes for each 2-wire, 20-ampere small- 28-30 33
applia nce branch circuit and each launrlr)' brancl1 circuit 31 32
covered in 210.11 (C)( l ) and (C)(2) 32-33 31
(3) T he nameplate rating of the following: 34-36 30
a. AU appliances that are fastened in place, permanently 37-38 29
connected, or located to be 011 a specific c ircui t 39-42 28
b. Ranges, wall-mounted oven.~, cou11te 1'-mon11ted cook-
43-45 27
ing units 4()-.50 26
c. Clothes dryers that are nor connected to the la undry
.51-.55 25
branch circ uit specified in item (2)
56-61 24
cl. Water heaters
61 and ove r 23

70--80 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition

 ARTICLE 220- BRANCH -CIRCUIT, FEEDER, AND SERVICE LOAD C'.ALCULATIONS
(3) T he nameplate rating of the following:
a. All a ppliances that are fastened in place, permanen tly
connected, o r located to be on a specific circui t
b. Ranges, wall-moLmted ovens, cou nter-mounted cook-
ing un its
c. Clothes dryers that are not connected to the l,1undry
branch circuit specified in item (2)
d . Wate,· heaters
(4) T he nameplate ampere or kVA rating of al l permanently
connected motors not included in item (3)
(5) T he larger of the air-con ditioning load o r th e fixed elec-
tr-ic space-heating load
220.85 Two Dwelling Units. ' "'h ere two dwelling ut1.iL5 are
suppl ied by a single feeder and the calculated load under
Part ll[ of this article exceeds d1at for three identical un its
calculated under 220.84, 1.he Lesser of 1.he two loads s hall be
perm itted to be used.
220.86 Schools. The calculation of a feeder or service load fo1·
scl1ools shall be permi tted in accordance with Ta ble 220 .86 in
lie u of Parr III of this ar ticle wh e re equipped ,vith electric space
h eating, air conditio ning, or both . T he connected load to
w hich the demand factors of Table 220.86 apply shal l include
a ll of the inte1·ior and exterior lighting, powe1~ water heating,
cooking, other loads, and the lar ger of the air-cond itioning
Load or space-heating load ,vithin the build ing or structure.
Feeders a nd se1vice conductors whose calculated load is
determined by this o ptional calculation shall be pern"l.i tted to
h ave the neutral load deten 11.ined by 220.6 1. Where IJ1e build-
ing or structure load is calculated by this optional metl,od,
feeders \vitl1.in the building or structure shall have ampacity as
permitted in Part m of this artid e; h oweve r, tl1e ampacity of an
ind ividual feeder shall not be required to he larger th an the
a mpaci ty for the en tire b uilding.
This section shall not apply to portable classroom build ings.
220.87 Determining Existing Loads. The calculation of a
feeder or service load for existin g i11stallations shall be pe,-mit-
ted to use actual ma.xi.mum demand Lo determ.in e IJ1e existing
load under a ll of the following conditions:
( 1) T he m aximum deman d data .is available fo r a 1-year
period.
Exmption: If the maxim·um demand data for a I-year period i.s not
available, the calculated lortd shall bl' jJm'11titted lo be based on {hH
maximum. demrm1l ( the highest nveragl' kilowatts reached and main-
trtined for ri 15-nrinute interval) rnntirmo!Lsl.y wcorded ov,w n mini-
Table 220.86 Optional Method - Demand Factors for Feeders
and Se rvice Conductors for Schools
Demand
Factor
Connected Load (Percent)
First 33 VA/ m" 100
Plu s,
Over 33 through (3 through 20 VA/ fl~) al 75
220VA/ m1
Plus,
Remainder ove1· 25
220 VA/ m~
2020 E,;lition NATlONAL ELECTRlC-AL CODE
220.103
mmn 30-day ptriod using a recording mmneter or potvl'r meter
connecled lo the highe.1t loaded fihose of the jPeder or srrvire, based on
!he initial loading al lhl' sta·rt of the rl'cording. The recording shall
rejlel't tit,! ma:dmwn demand of th.11 jfeder or serviCI' by bf'ing taken
when the building or s/Jare is ocr.11f!ied and shall inrlude by mea.mre-
ment ar mlc-ulalion the largn- of thr. heating or cooling equipment load,
and othl'r loads that -may be fmiodic in naturf du.e lo SPasonal or simi-
lar conditions.
(2) T he maximum demand at 125 percent. plus the new loa.d
does not exceed tJ1e a mpacity o f the feeder or ratin g of
the se1vice.
(3) ll1e feeder has overcLu-t·en t protectio n in accordance
\'/ith 240.4, a nd d, e service has overload protection in
accordan ce with 230. 90.
l!.xception: If the feeder ar servi.tl' hos any renewable energy system (i.e.,
.1olar p!wtovolli1ic .1yslenu or wind e/Pctrii- systems) or employs any form
of peak. load shaving~ th.ii calrnlation method sholl not bl' /)f'rmitted.
220.88 New Restaurants. Calculation of a service o r feeder
load, wher e the feede r se,ves the total load, for a new restau-
rant shall be permitterl in accordance with Table 220.88 in lieu
o f Part Ill of this article.
The overload protecti on of the service con ducLOrs shal l be in
accordance with 2~0.90 a nd 240.4.
Feeder conductors shall not b e req uired to be of greater
arn pacit)' than the service con ductors.
Ser vice or feeder conductors whose calcula ted load is deter-
mined by this optiona l calculation sha ll be penn ilted to have
tJ1e neutral load determined by 220.61.
Part V. Farm Load Calculations
220.100 General. Farm loads sha ll be calculated i n accordance
\vid1 Pan V.
220.102 Farm Loads- Buildings and Other Loads.
(A) Dwelling Unit. The feeder or se1v ice load of a Jann dwell-
ing unit shall be calculated in accordance with the provisions
for dwellings in Part III 01· IV of this article. \/11h e re the dwelli ng
has e lectric heat and 1.he farm has e lecu·ic grain-drying systems,
Part IV of tl1is article shall not be used to cal culate the dwelling
load where tJ1e dwelling and farm loads a1·e su pplie(l by a
com mon service.
(B) Other Than Dwelling Unit. Where a feeder o r sen~ce
supplies a fann building 0 1· othe r load having LWO or more
separate branch circuits, t he load for feeders, service conduc-
tors, a nd service equi pment shall be calculated in accordance
with demand factors not less tJ1an indicated in Table 220.102.
220.103 Farm Loads - Total. Where supplied by a common
service, the total load of the fa.rm for se,v ice conductors and
service eq uipment shall be calculated in accordance with the
farm dwelling unit load a nd deman d factors specified in Tabl e
220.103. Where there is equipmen t in two or more farm equip-
me nt buildings or fo r loads having the same function, such
loads sh all be calcu lated in acco1·dance with Table 220.1 02 and
s hall be permitted to he combined a5 a single load in Tabl e
220.103 for calculating the total load.
70-81
225.l ARTICLE 225- OUTSIDE BRANCH ClRCUITS AND FEEDERS

Table 220.88 Optional Method-Per.mitted Load CalcuJations for Service and Feeder Conductors for New Restaurants

All Electric Restaurant Not All Electric Restaurant

Total Connected
Load (kVA) Calculated Loads (kVA) Calculated Loads (kVA)
0-'.WO 80% JOO%
'.!OJ-325 10% (amow1t over 200) + 160.0 50% (amoum over 200) + 200.0
'.-126---800 50% (amount over 325) + 172.5 45% (amount over 325) + 262.5
Over 800 50% (amountover800) +410.0 20% (amount over 800) + 476.3
Note: Add al l elec u·ical loads, including both heating and cooling loads, 10 calculate th e to ral connecred load. Selecr d1e one dem and factor that
applies from the r.able, rhen m,,1Liply the toral connected load by d1is single demand factor.

Table 220.102 Method for Calculating Farm Loads fQr Other

ARTICLE 225 Than Dwelling Unit
Outside Branch Circuits and Feeders
Demand Factor
Ampere Load at 240 Volts Maximum (%)
225.1 Scope. This a rticle covers requirements for ouL~ide The greater of the following:
branch circuits and feede1·s run on or between buildings, 5truc- Al.I ·1oads Lhat arc expected LO opcrnte ]()()
tUt·es. or poles o n the premises; and electrical equipment and siniulurncornly, QI'
wiring for the .~upply of utilization equ ipmenl that is located on 125 percent or the fu ll load current of the
or attached to the outside of buildings, su·,1ctLU·es, or po les. largest moto1; or
Informatio nal Note: Fo r additiona l into rmaUo n o n wiring over First 60 amperes of the load
1000 volts, see ANSI/IE,EE C2-2017, National Elecl1i.:al Safi1ly Code. Next 60 amperes ofalJ o the r· loads 50
Remainder of c)ther loads 25
225.3 Other Articles. Application of other articles, including
additional requirements to specific cases of e quipment a nd
conductors, is shown in Table 225.3. Table 220.103 Method for Calculating Total Farm Load

InclividuaJ Loads Calculated in Demand Factor

Part I. General
225.4 Conductor Covering. Where wi thin 3.0 m ( 10 ft) of any
building o r strnc ture oll1er than supporting poles or towers,
open individual (ae1·ial) overhead conductors shall be insulated
for the nominal voltage. The insulatio n of conductors in cables
o r raceways, except Type MI cable, shall be of thermoset or
the1·mo plas tic type and, in wet locations, shall comply with
3 10.lO(C) . The ins ulation of conductors fo1· festoon lighting
shall be of l11e thermoset o r thermoplastic type,
Exceptiou: J:,qui/1117,pnf grmmding conducton and grou,,uJPd rirruil
conduclo1:f shall be jJermittell lo be br1re or covered as sjm-rfirally permit-
/Pd elsetvheir in this Code.
225.5 Size of Conductors 1000 Volts, Nominal, or Less. The
ampacity of o utdoor branch-ciJ·cuit a nd feeder conductors shall
he in accordance with 3 10.14 ba~ecl on loads 3$ determined
under· 220.10 and Part III of Article 220.
225.6 Conductor Size and Support.
(A) Overhead Spans. Open individua l conductors shall noL be
sma lle r than the following:
(1) For 1000 volts, nominal, or less, JO AV\TG copper or
8 AWG aluminum for spans up to 15 rn (50 ft) in le ngl11 ,
and 8 AWG coppe r o r 6 AWG aluminum fo r a longer span
LU1le.~s supported by a messenger wiJ·e
(2) For over 1000 volL~, nominal, 6 AV-,!G copper or 4 ,'-\';,VG
aluminum where open individua.1 conductors, and 8 AWG
copper or 6 AWG a luminum where iJ1 cable
(B) Festoon Lighting. Overhead conductors fo r fesloo n ligh t-
ing shall not be smaller than 12 AWG unless l11e conductors .ire
supported by messenger wires. In all spans e.xc,eeding 12 m
Accordance with Table 220. l 02 (%)
Largest load HJO
Second largest load 75
Third largest load 65
Remaining loads 50
Nme: Tor.his total load, add the load of the fa rm dwelling unit
calculared in accordance with Pan Ill or IV of this a rticle. Where the
dwelling has electric heat and die fa,·m has electric g rain-drying
systems, PartN of this article sha ll not be used LO calculate d1e
dwelUn~ load.
(40 ft), the conductors sha ll be suppo rted by messenger wire.
The messenger wire shall be supported by su·ain insulators.
Conductors m· messenger wires shall not be attached to a ny fire
escape. downspout, or plumbing equipme n t.
225.7 Lighting Equipment Installed Outdoors.
(A) General. For the supply of lig hting equipme nt installed
ouLdoors, the br,mch c ircuiL~ sha ll comply with Article 210 and
225 .7 (B) through (D) .
(B) Common NeutraJ. The ampacity of the ne1m-al conductor
shall not be less tha n the ma.,-ximm11 net calcula ted load cm-rent
between tl1 e neutral conductor and a ll ungrounded conductors
ton netted to a ny o ne p hase of the circuit.
(C) 277 Volts to Ground. Circuits exceedi ng 120 volt~, nomi-
n a l, between conductors and not exceeding 277 volt~. nomina l,
to ground shall he permitted to supply l.u.mina ires for illumi11a-
tion of outdoor ,u·eas of industrial establishm ents, office build-
ings, .~chools, stores, a nd other commercial or public buildings.

70--82 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020falition

 ARTICLE 225- OUTSIDE BRANC H CfRCUfTS AND FEEDERS 225.17

Table 225.3 Other Articles (15) Type MC cable

( 16) Type MI cable
Equ.ipment/ Condt1ctors Article ( l 7)Type SE cabl e
( I 8)Type T C-ER cable
Branch circuiL~ 210 ( 19) TypeUF cable
CJass 1, Class 2, and Class 3 remme- 725 (20) Wireways
control, signaling, and power-limited
circuits C ircuit~ of over LOOO volt5, nom.inal, shall be installed as
Communications circuiL~ 805 provided in :100.37.
CommLmity an tenna television and radio 820
225.11 Feeder and Branch-Circuit Conductors Entering, E.xit-
distribution systems
ing, or Attached to Buildings or Structures. Feede r and
Conductors for geneml wiring 310
branc h-circ uit conductors e ntering 01· exiting buildings 01·
Electrically diiven or con t,·olled 675
structures shall be installed in accordance with the re9uire-
irrigation machines
ments of 230..152. Overhead branch cit-cuit~ and feeders
Electric signs and o utJinc light.ing 600
2Jrj attached to buildings or structures sha ll be installed in accord-
Feeders
ance with the requirements of 230.54.
Fire alarm systems 760
Fixed o utdonr e lectric deicing and snow- 4.26 225.12 Open-Conductor Supports. Open conductors sha ll be
ruelti.ng equipment supported on knobs, racks, bracket5 , or strai n insulators, that
Floating buildings 553 are made of glass, porcelain, 01· o the r approved materials.
GrOLmding and bonding 250
Hazardous (classified) locations 500 225.14 Open-Conductor Spacings.
Hazardous (classified ) locatio ns - 510 (A) 1000 Volts, Nominal, or Less. Cond uctors of I 000 voltS,
specific nomjna l, or less, shall com ply w ith d1e spac ings prnvided in
Marinas a11d bmuyanls 555 Table 230.Sl(C).
Medium-voltage conducwrs and cab le 311
Messenger-su pported wiring 396 (B) Over 1000 Volts, Nominal. Conductors of over 1000 volt5,
Mobile hon1cs, manufactured homes, 550 nominal, shall comply with die spacings provided in 11 0.36 and
and mobile home parks 490.24.
Open wit;ng on insulators 398
Over 1000 volts, general 490 (C) Separation from Othei· Circuits. Open conductors shall he
Ove rcu1Tent p1·otcctio11 240 separated from open conductors of od1e r circuits or systems by
Radio and telc,isio n equipment 810 not less than 100 mm (4 in.) .
Services 230 (D) Conductors on Poles. Conducto rs on poles shall h ave a
Solar pho tovoltaic ")'Stems 690 separation of not less tl1an 300 mm (1 ft) w here not placed on
Swimming pools, fotmtains, and similar 680 rack5 or hracket5. Conductors supported on poles sha ll prnvicle
installations a hori zo ntal climbing space not less d1an the fo llowing:
Use and ide ntification of grounded 200
conductors (J) Power conductors below com munications conductors -
750 mm (30 in.)
(2) Power conducto rs alone or above com mun icaLions
(D) 1000 Volts Between Conductors. Ci1-cuits exceeding conductors:
277 vollS, nomi11al, LO ground and not exceeding 1000 volt~, a. 300 volts o r less-600mm (24 in. )
nomjnal, between conductors sha ll b e permitted to supply the b. o,,er 300 volts - 750 mm (30 i.n. )
al.Lx.iliary e quipmenl of e lectric-discharge lamps in accorda nce (3) Communicati ons conductors below power conductors -
with 210.fi(D)( l ) . sam e as powe1- conductoL~
225.10 Wiring on Buildings (or Other Structures). The instal- (4) Com mw1icati ons cond uc tors a lo ne - no requirem e nt
latio n of o utside wiring on smfaces of buildings (or other stn.1c- 225.15 Supports over Buildings. OuL~ide branch-circuit and
tures) shall be permitted for circuits not exceeding l000 volt5, feeder conductors passing over a building shall be secure ly
nominal, as Lhe following:
supported.
( I) Auxilia1·y gi.m e rs
(2) Busways
225.16 Attachment to Buildings.
(3) Cable trays (A) Point of Attachment. The point of attachment LO a build-
(4) Cablehus ing shall be in accordance with 230.26.
(5) Electrical metallic tubing (EMT)
(ti) Flexible metal conduit (FMC) (B) Means of Attachment. Th e means of attachm ent to a
(7) Intermediate metal condui t (IMC) building shall be iu accordan ce with 230.27.
(8) Liquidtight flexible metal conduit (LFMC) 225.17 Masts as Suppo1·ts. Only .feeder or bra nch-circuit
(9) Liq uidtigh t fl exible nonmetallic conduit (LFNC) conductors specified within th is section shall be permitted to
(10) Messenger-supported wiring be attached to the feede r a nd/ or branch-circuit mast. Ma.sL~
( 11 ) Open wiring o n insulators used for the support of final spa ns of feeders o r branch c ircuits
(12) Reinforced thermosetting resin conduit (RTRC) shall b e installed in accordauce with 225.17 (A) a nd (B) .
(1:1) Rigid metal conduit (RMC)
( 14) Rigid polyvinyl c hlo ride conduit (PVC)

2020 ll\lirjon NATlONAL E LECTRIC-AL CODE 70-83

225.17 ARTICLE 225 - OUTSIDE BRANCH CIRCUITS AND FEEDERS
(A) Strength. The mast shall have adequate strength or be
supported by braces or gu y wires to safely withstand the strain
imposed by tJ1e overhead feeder or bran ch-circuit conductors.
Hubs intended for use with a conduit serving as a masL for
support of feeder or branch-circuiL conductors shall be identi-
fied for use with a mast.
(B) Attachment. Feeder and/or branch-circuit conductors
shall not be auachecl to a ma.st where me connection is
between a weatherhead or the end of the condui t and a
coupling where me coupliHg is located a bove the la5t point of
securement to the building or other su·ucture, or where the
coupling i.~ located above the building or other structure.
225.18 Clearance for Overhead Conductors and Cables. Over-
head spans of open conductors and open multiconductor
cables of not over LOOO volts, nom.inal, shall have a cleara11ce of
not less than the following:
(1) 3.0 J11 (JO ft) - above fmished grade, sidewalks, or from
any platform or projection that will permit personal
contact where the voltage does not exceed l.i'iO volts to
ground and accessible to pedestrians only
(2) 3.7 111 (12 ft) - over residential property and driveways,
and those commercial areas not sul:iect to truck traffic
when" tJ1e voltage d-0es not exceed 300 volts m ground
(3) 4.5 111 (15 ft) - for those areas listed in the 3.7 m ( 12 ft)
classification where the voltage exceeds 300 volt5 ro
ground
(4) 5.5 m ( 18 ft) - over public streets, alleys, roads, parking
areas subject to truck traffic, driveways on other th an resi-
dential prnperty, and other land traversed by vehicles,
such as cultivated , grazing, forest, and 01-chard
(5) 7.5 m (24½ ft) - over u·ack rail5 of railroads
225.19 Clearances from Buildings for Conductors of Not over
1000 Volts, Nominal. Oved1ead spans of open conductors a nd
open multiconcluctot· cables shall comply with 225.Hl(A), (B),
(C), and (D) .
(A) Above Roofs. Overhead spans of open conductors and
open muJticonductor cables shall have a vertical clearance of
not less tl1an 2.7 m (8 ft 6 in .) above t he roof surface. The verti-
cal clearance above the roof level shall be maintained for a
di.stance not less tha11 900 mm (3 ft) in all directions from the
edge of tl1e roof.
Exception No. I: The arPa above a roof surjr1ee subject lo fJedPslrinn or
vehimlar trafjit slwll have a vertical clem-ance from !he mof smfare in
accordanre urith thi> clettrante requirements <if225. 18.
Exception No. 2: WhP.m the vollage bettoem cond.uctors does not txceed
300, and the mof luir n slope of 100 mm in 300 mm ( 4 in. in 12 in.)
ar greate1; a reditclion in clearance lo 900 rnrn (3 fl) shall be /Jermilled.
Exception No. 3: Wl,.em /he vollagP bftween conduCIO'IS does no/ exceed
300, a reduction in clfanmce above <m~ the overhanging portion of the
roof to not ll/S$ than 450 mm, ( 18 in.) shall be permitted if (1) not more
than 1.8 rn (6 fl) 1>[ lhr wnd'l1ct11rs, 1.2 m (4 fl) h01izO'ntaJIJ, j1ass
above the roof overhang, mu:l (2) they fl.re lfnninriled at a thro·ugh-the-
m1>[ raceway or 11j1provrrl .mpfJort.
l!.'xcej1tion No. 4: Tfu, 1r,qidremml for maintaining the vertical clertr-
ante 900 mm (3 fl).frorn /he edge ofthr roof shall not apply to the final
rnnduclor span wlum1 the l'<mdw:tors mr· attarhed to the side rif n bu-ild-
ing.
(B) From Nonbuilding or Nonbridge Structures. From signs,
chimneys, radio and television antennas, tanks, and other
70-84
nonbui.lcling or nonbridge s1Tuctures, clearances - vertical,
d iagonal, and horizontal - shall not be less tha11 900 mm
(3 ft) .
(C) Horizontal Clearances. Clearances shall nor he less lha11
900 111111 (3 ft).
(D) Fmal Spans. Final spans of feeders or branch ci1 n1iL~ shall
comply witJ1 225.J 9(D) ( 1), (D) (2), a11d (D ) (3).
(l ) Clearance from Windows. Final spa11s to the build.iJ1g they
supply, or from which they are fed, shall be permitted to be
attached to the building, bur they sh all be kept not less man
900 mm (3 ft) from windows tl1at are designed to b e opened,
a11d from doors, porches, balconi es, Ladders, stairs, fire escapes.
or similar locations.
Excej1tion: Condw:tors run abovl! the top Imel of a window shall /;e
permi tled to be less than //,p 900 mm (3 Ji) requirement.
(2) Vertical Clearance. The vertical clearance of final spa11s
above or witl1in 900 mm (3 ft) measured horizo ntally of plat-
forms, prqjecti.ons, or surfaces that will permit personal contact
shall be maintained in accor dance with 225.18.
(3) Building Openings. The over·head branch-circuit a11d
feeder c;onduclors shall not h e inst<\,llecl beneath openings
through which materials may be moved, such as open ing-s in
fann and com mercial build ings, and shall not be installed
whet·e they obstruct enu·ance to tJ1ese o pe nings.
(E) Zone for Fire Ladders. ,l\lhe re buildi11gs exceed tlu·ee
stories or l 5 m (50 ft ) in height, overhead lines shall be
aJTanged, where practicable, so that a clear space (or zone) at
least 1.8 m (6 ft) wide will be left eitJ1er adjace nt m tl1e build-
ings or beginrting not over 2.5 m (8 fL) frorn them to facil itate
the raising of ladders when necessary for fire l'ig hti11g.
225.20 Pr<>tection Against Physical Damage. Conductors
installed on buildings, structures, or poles shall be protected
against physical damage as provided for services in 230.50.
225.21 Multiconductor C.ables on Exterior Surfaces of Build-
ings (or Other Structures). Supports for multi conductor cables
on exterior surfaces of buildings (or other str:uctures) shall be
a~ provided in 230.51.
225.22 Raceways on Exterior Surfaces of Buildings or Other
Structures. Raceways on exteriors of buildings o r other struc-
tures s hall be arranged to d ra in and shall be lis ted or approved
for use in wet locations.
225.24 Outdoor I..ampbolders. Wh ere outdoor lampholders
are attached as pendants, the connections to tl1e circuit wires
shall be staggered. v\lhere such lampholders have terminal~ of a
type tl1at puncture the insulation and make contact with tl1e
conduclors, they shall bl;! attached only to conductm·s of the
stranded type.
225.25 Location of Outdoor Lamps. Locations of lamps fo r
outdoor ligh ting shall be below a ll e n e,-gized conductors, trans-
formers, or o ther electric utilization equipment, m1less e ither
of me fo llowi ng apply:
(J ) ClearaJ1ces or other safeguards aJ·e provided for 1-elamp-
ing operations.
(2) Equipment is conu·ollecl by a disconnecting means that is
lockable open in accordance with .I 10.25.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 225- OUTSIDE BRANCH CIRCUITS AND FEEDERS
225.26 Vegetation as Support. Vegetatio n suc h as trees sha ll
not be used for support of overhead co nd uctor spans.
225.27 Raceway Seal. \,\There a raceway enters a build ing or
su-uctw·e from out5ide, it shall be sealed. Spa re or wrnsed race-
ways shall a lso be seale d. Sealan ts sh a ll be ide ntified for use
wiU1 cable insulatio n, conductor insula tio n, ba re conductor,
shie ld, o r othe r component5.
Part JI. Buildings or Other Structures Supplied by a Feeder(s)
or Branch Circuit(s)
225.30 Number of Supplies. A build ing o r othe r structure d,al
is served by a branch circuit or feede r o n d1e load side of a
service disconnecting means sha ll be supplied b)' o nly one
feede1· o r bra nc h circuit unless permitted in 225.30(A)
d1ro ugh (E) . For the purpose of this section, a multiwire
b ranch circuit shall be con sidered a single cir cuit.
Wh ere a branch ci.1-cuit or fee de r o riginates in U1ese addi-
tio nal build ings or o m er su·uctures, o nly one feeder o r branch
circuit sha ll be pe rm itted co supply power back lo the o.rigina l
buildi ng or structure, unless pe rmitted in 225.30(A)
th roug h (E) .
(A) Special Conditions. Add iti onal feeders o r branch ci.rcuit5
shall be permitted to supply th e following:
( 1) Fire pumps
(2) Emergen cy systems
(3) Legally required standby system.5
( 4) O p tio na l stand by systems
(5) Pa ra llel power p1·oductio n systems
(6 ) Syste ms design ed fo r connection to multip le sources of
supply for the purpose of e nha nced reliability
(7) Electric vehicle cha rging systems liste d , la be led, a nd ide n-
tified fo r more U1an a single branc h circuit o r feede 1·
(8) Docking faci lities and pie rs
(B) Common Supply Equipmenl. Wh ere feede1- cond uctors
0 1iginate in the same -pan e lboard, switchboard, o r 0 U,e 1· d istri-
butio n equipme n t, and each feeder termin ates in a single
disconnecting mean s, not mo re than six feede rs shall be
permitted. Whe re more tha n o ne feeder is installed in accord-
a nce wiU, this section, a ll feeder disconnects supplying the
building or structure sha ll be grouped in the same locatio n ,
a nd U1e require me nt~ of 225.33 shall not appl)'. Each discon-
nect sh a ll be ma rked to indicate the load served.
(C) Special Occupancies. By sp ecia l permission, additional
feeders o r bra nc h circuits s ha ll be permitted for e ither of the
fo llowing:
(1 ) Multiple-occupa ncy build ings whe re the re i~ no space
available [or su pply equipment accessi hie lo all occu pant5
(2) A single building or od1er structure sufficiendy large to
make two or more supplies necessary
(D) Capacity Requirements. Additional feede rs o r branch
circuits sha U be pennitted whe re the capacity require ments a re
in excess of 2000 amp eres at a su ppl)' voltage of 1000 volt5 or
less.
(E) Different Characteristics. Add itio na l feeders or branch
circuits sha ll b e permitted for different voltages, freque ncies,
or phases, or for diffe re nL uses such as con trol of out5ide light-
ing from multiple locations.
2020 ll\lirjon NATLONAL E LllCTRW.AL CODE
225.34
(F) Documented Switching Prncedures . Additio nal feeders or
br a nch circui t~ shall be permi tted to supply installations under
single man ageme nt where docLLmented safe switching proce-
d ures a re esta blished and maintained for disconnection.
225.31 Disconnecting Means. Means shal l be provided for
disconnecting a ll ungro w1ded conductors d,at supply o r pass
throu g h th e build ing or strl1cture.
225.32 Location. The disconnecting m eans sh all be insta ll ed
eiUu:r inside o r OLLL5ide of d1e build ing or strucLme served or
wh ere the conductors pass d1rough m e building or su·uc ture.
TI1e di5co1111ecting means sha U be al a readily accessible loca-
tio n nearest d1e point of e nu·ance of the conductors. For th e
purposes of this sectio n , the requirem ents in 230.6 shall be
u tilized.
Excepti<m No_ 1: For installations under single managmien t, where
doc1Jrnented .wife stuitrhing procedurrs me esiabfahed and 111aintained
j<1r discDnnettion, and where the installa/,i1m is monilorl'II by qualified
inrliviriualr, the d iscnnnecting m.eans shall be f1trm.i ued to bP lor,ater,f,
elsf111hen' on the frremi.ses.
Exc1,pt:i<m No. 2: For buildings or other stnu:tnre$ qualifying under
Artirle 685, lhe disconnecting w.e ans shall be firnnillal to be located
PLw,.vluwe on 1,/w fmm1ises.
Exu,plion No. 3: For lowers or poles u.sed as lighting slamlards, the
disconnecting means shall bt' pen nilled lo be localed elsewh.tre o-rl. !hi'
premises.
&cepti<m No. 4: For jJoles or similar structures used only for mpjim·t of
signs installed in accordanc/i iuith A rticll' 600,. !he disconnecting means
shall bl' permitted to br lomtn/. PLwwhew on thl' premises.
225.33 Maximum Number of Disconnec ts.
(A) General. The d isconnecting means for each supply
permitted h)' 225.30 shall con sist of no t more man six switch es
o r si.x ci rcuit breakers mo unted in a single enclosure, in a
group of separate e nclosures, or in o r o n a switchboard or
switchgear. The re shall be no mo re d1an six d isco nn ect~ per
supply grouped in an y o ne locatio n.
Exception: For the /m1j1oses of this secli.rm, disconnei;ling means med
solely for lhf control ci'lmil of the gruund-frmlt protection system, or the
control circuit of the power-operatPd supply disronnecting means,
install/id as jiart of the li.rtrd equipment, shall not be considmnl tt
supply. discowwcting 111mns.
(B) Single -Pole Units. Two or Uiree single-pole switches or
breake1-s capa ble of individu a l o pe ratio n sh all be pennitted on
multi.wire circ uit~, o ne pole for each ung ro unded cond uctor, as
o ne mu.ltipole d iscon nect, provided d1ey a re equi pped wim
identified hand le ties or a master ha ndle LO d.isconnect all
ung rounded con.d uct01·s wid1 no mo1·e th an six o peratio ns of
the h a nd.
225.34 Grouping of Disconnects.
(A) General. T he two to si.x disconnects as pen11ittecl in 22.5.33
shall be g rouped. Each disconnect sha ll be .marked to indicate
Lhe load served.
1.xti!jJri:on: One of thP /rvo Lo six disrnnnecting means /:iermitted in
225.33, 111/u,r!' imd only for a W<!ter pump also intended to fnvvidi' jirr
/Jroti'ction, shall be permitted to bP located remote fr/Jrn the other disr.on-
11.erting means.
70-85
225.34 ARTTCLE 225- OUTSIDE BRANCH CIRCUITS AND FEEDERS
(B) Additional Disconnecting Means. The one or more addi-
tional disconnecti11g means for fire pumps o r for e mer ge11cy,
legally required standby or optional standby system permitted
by 225.30 shall be installed sufficiencly remote from the o ne to
six disconnecting me ans for normal supply to nli.ni.rnize Lhe
possibili ty of sim ultaneotL~ interruption o f supply.
225.35 Access to Occupants. In a multiple-occupancy build-
ing, each occupant shall h.we access to the occupant's supply
disconnecting means.
1!.'.-cref1tion: ln a miiltiple-occitfxtniy building where eln:tril' supply and
electri.cal mainlPnance ,11-e provided by the building mrm.agernenl and
whel"I' these are 11-nrkr contfou.ous building num.agemmt sup«rv(,wn,
the s·tt/J/1~\I disconnt>cting rn.e1ms supplying more tlian one offtt,Pancy
shall be penniUed to bP accessible to authorized managnnent pt>rsonnel
on ly.
225.36 Type of Disconnecting Means. The disconnec ting
means specifie d in 225.3 1 shaJI be comprised of a circuit
breaker, molded case switch, general-use switch, snap switch , or
other approved means. \.\'he re applied i11 accordance with
250.3 2(B) . Exception No. l. 1.he disconnecting means shall be
suitable for u se as service equipm e nt.
225.37 Identification. Where a building or stnicture ha5 any
combination of feeders, branch circuits, or services pa5sing
tl1rough it or supplying it, a permanent plaque o r directory
shall be installed al each feeder and branch-circ uit disconnect
location denoting all other services, feeders , or branch circ uits
supplying that building or su·ucture or pa5sing through that
bui.lding or strucnire a nd the area served by each.
Excef1tion No. I: A f1laquf or dire,;tmy shall not be 1,'1f!li111d for large-
caf1acity rnultibwlrting industrial installations under single manage-
ment, where it is ens-m-ei.l that di.sconr1ection can be a,;cmnfJlished by
esta(Jlishing anll maintrtining .wife switdl.ing procedures.
Excef1tion No. 2: This irlentijication shall not be required for branch
circuits installed /min a dwdling 11-nit to a second building or st1·ttdm-e.
225.38 Disconnect Construction. D isconnecti ng means shall
meet the requirements of225.38(A) through (D ) .
(A) Manually or Power Operable. The disconnecting means
shall consi.~t of either ( 1) a manuaJly operable switch or a
i;irnrit breake r equipped with a ha ndle or o t11er suitable o pe r-
ating means or (2) a power-operable switc h or circuit. breaker,
provide d Lhe switch or circuit breaker can be opened by hand
in the event ofa power failure.
(B) SimuJLaneous Opening of Poles. Each building o r struc-
ture disconnecting means shall simultaneously disconnect all
ungrow1ded supply conductors that it controls from the build-
ing or st.nicture wiring system.
(C) Disconnection of Grounded Conductor. Where Lh e build-
ing or stsuctw·e disconnecting means does not disconnect the
grc,unded cc,nductor from the grounded conduc wrs in the
building or strncnu-e wiring, othe r means shall be provided for
th L5 pw,pc,se a t 1.he location of Lhe di5connecting means. A
terminal or bus to which all grounded conductors can be
attached hy means of pressure connectors shall be permitted
for this purpose .
1n a mulLisection switchboard or switc hgear, disconnects for
the groLmded conductor shall be permitted to be in any sec tion
oft.he switchboard or switchgear, if the switchbmu·d section or
70--86
switchgear section is ma.r'ked to indicate a g rounded conductor
disconnect is contained within th e equipment.
(D) Indicating. The building or structure disconnecting
means sh all plainly indicate whe the r iLis u1 the o pen or closed
position.
225.39 Rating of Disconnect. The feeder o r branch-circuit
disconnecting means shall have a rating of not less 1.han the
calcul<1ted load to be supplied, determined in accordance witl1
Parts l and TI of Article 220 for bra.ri ch c ircuits, P,irt III or JV of
Article 220 for feeders, o r Part V of Article 220 for fa.rm load5.
vVhere the branch circuit o r feede r disconnect.i.ng me ans
consist5 of mo re than one switch 01· circuit breaker, a5 permit,.
ted by 225.33, combining Lhe ratings of a ll the switc hes or
circuit breakers for determining the rating of the disconnect-
ing means shall be permitted. Tn no case shall the rating be
lower than specified in 225.39(A), (B), (C), or (D) .
(A) One-Circuit Installation. For installations to supply only
Limited loads of a single b ra.nch circuit, Lhe bra nch circuit
disconnecting means sha ll ha,1 e a rnti.i1g of not less than
15 a mperes.
(B) 1\vo-Circuit Installations. For installations consisting of
not more than Lwo 2-wire branch cirnlits, tl1e feede1· or branch-
circuit disconnecting means shaJI h ave a rating of not. less than
30 amperes.
(C) One-Family Dwelling. For a one-fami ly dwelling, the
feeder disconnecting means sha ll have a rating of n o t less than
100 ampe1-es, 3-wire.
(D) All Otl1ers. For all o ther installations, tl1e feeder or
branch-circuit disconnecting means shall have a rating of not
less tlian 60 amperes.
225.40 Access Lo Overcurrent Protective Devices. \,\The1·e a
feeder overcurre nt device is nc,t readi ly accessible, branch-
circuit overcurrent devices shall be installed on the load side,
shall be l110Lu1Led in a readily accessible location , and shall be
of a lower ampe re rnting Lha n the feeder overcnrrent device.
Part Ill. Over I 000 Vol ls.
225.50 Sizing of Conductors. The sizing of conduct0rs over
1000 volts shall. be in accordance with 210.19(B ) for branch
circu it~ and 215.2(B) for feeders .
225.51 Isolating Switches. Where oil switch es or ai.t\ oi l.
vacuum , or s ulfur hexafluoride ci rcuit breakers constintte a
building disconnecting mea.r1s, an i~olating swi tch witl1 visible
break contact.~ and meeting the requi rement5 of 230.204(B),
(C), a nd (D ) shall be installed on the supply side of the d iscon-
necting means and all associated eq uipmenL
.Excej1tion: The i~olating switch shall not be rrquiml whem lhe disrnn-
necting means is mounted on remo11ablP trud1. pantls or swilchgPm'
•units that cannot be opened unless the circuit i.s disconnected and that,
tohen removed fivm the nonnal ojierating position, aulonialically
disamnecl the circuit brmk.er or switch from all energized fJarts.
225.52 Disconnecting Means.
(A) Location. A building or struc ti.u·e disconnecting mean s
s hall be localed in accordance with 22.''i.32, o r, if not readily
accessible., iL shall be operable b y mecha nical linkage from a
readily accessible point. For multibuikling indusu·ia l installa-
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTICLE 225- OUTSIDE BRANCH CIRCUITS AND FEEDERS 225.60

tions tmder single management, it shall be permitted ro be
electrically operated by a readily accessible, re mote-contrnl
device in a separate building or su·ucture.
(B) Type. Each lmilcling or su·ucture disconnect shall simulta-
neously disconnect all ungrounded supply conductors it
controls and shall have a fault-closing rating not less than the
available fault current al it5 supply terminals.
Exception: Whem llw individ'ltal discon·nerting rnerm,5 CIJ'Tlsisi5 of/1.t,W!ll
C'l-t louls, the sinmlla11t1011,,,· disconnertion of all ungmwnded supj1ly
conductors shall n o/ be reqiiireil if there -is a rne,ms to diiconnect thP
load before opPn ing the cillou/s. A /wnnrment [fgible sign shall be
installed arljorml lo the fused m_itonlr r.md shall read DJSCONNJ::cr
LOAD BEFORE OPJ,,,'NJNG CUTOUTS.
(3) Switching Circuits. Each switching circuit shall be observed
to o perate the associated equip ment being switcl1ed.
(4) Control and Signal Circuits. Each conu·ol or·signaJ c ircuit
shall be o bserved to perform its proper conu·ol function or
produce a coITect signal output.
(5) Metering Circuits. All metering c ircuits shall be verified to
operate correclly from voltage and current sources in a simi lar
man.net- to protective relay circuits.
(6) Acceptance Tests . Complete acceptance tests shall be
performed., aft.er the substation installation is completed, on all
assemblies, e quipment, conductors, and conn-ol a nd protective
systems, as applica ble. to verify tJ1e integrity of ail the syste ms.

Where fused switches or separately mounted fuses are (7) Relays an.cl Metering Utilizing Phase Differences. ALI rela ys
installed, the fuse characteristics shall be permitted to contrib- and me tering tl1at use phase differences for operation shall be
vel'ified by measuring phase angtes at the relay under actua l
ute to the fault-closing rating of the disco1rnecting means .
load conditions after operation commences.
(C) Locking. Disconnecti.ng means shall be lockable open in
accordance with 11 0.25. (B ) Test Report. A test report covering tl1e 1·esults of the tests
required in 225.56(A) shall be del ivered to the authority
Exception: Mlhe1l' cm individual llisa;n1111rting rnerms 1xmsists offusecl having jurisdiction prior to energization.
Clllouts, n suitable mdo.wr~ tapable of being lor.k.ed and siud to
Informatio nal Nore: For an example of acceptance specifica-
contain all cutout Jnsr holder.; shall bl' ,instnlletl at a crmveni;mf !ora- cions, see ANSI/ NETA ATS-2013, rlcre/1tar,ce Te.,ling Specif,mtiom
tion to the fuserl ciaouts. for Ete,:triraL Power DistlibUlion 1'.'guijmuml n11r/ Systems, pubLish ed b y
(D) Indicating. Disconnecting means shall clearly imlicate lhe lnterNa1jonal Electrical Testing Association.
wheLher they are in the open "off' or close d "on:' position. 225.60 Clearances over Roadways, Walkways, Rail, Water, and
(E) Uniform Position. Where disconnecting means handles Open Land .
are operated vertically, the "up" position of the handle shall be (A) 22 kV, Nominal, to Ground or Less. The clea rances ovi:r
the "on" position. roadways, walkways, rail, waler, and open lan(l for conductors
l.xception: A switching devir;e having rnore than one "on" position, and live part~ up to 22 kV, nominal, to grotmd or less sh all be
such (l,S a do11ble lhrotv switch, shall not OP '11'/Jllirrd lo cmnt1z~ wilh lhis not less than d1e value s shown u1 Table 225.60.
rrquirimuml. (B) Over 22 kV Nominal to Ground. Clearances for the cate-
(F) Identification. Where a building or ~tructure has any gories shown in Table 225.60 shall be increased by 10 mm
combination of feeders, branch c ircui ts, or services passing (0.4 .in.) per kV above 22,000 voles.
through or supplying it, a pe rman ent plaque or directory shall (C) Special Cases. Fo r special cases, such as where crossings
be installed at each feeder and branch-circtdt di5connect loca- will be made over lakes, rivers, o r areas using large vehicl es
tion that denotes ail other services, feeders, or brancl1 circuit~ such as mining operations, specific designs shall be engineered
supplytng that build ing or structure 0 1· pass ing through that conside ring the special circumstances and shall be approved by
building or structure and the area served by ead1. the authority having jurisdiction.
225.56 Inspections and Tests. l nformarional Nore: For adclirional info mrntion, ~ee ANSI/ IE£E
C2-2017, Nr,tioi,al Etm,Oimt Safety Code.
(A) Pre-Energization and Operating Tests. The complete elec-
u·ical system design, including setdngs for protective, switc hing,
and control circuits, sh all be prepared in advance and made Table 225.60 Clearances over Roadways, Walkways, Rail,
available on request to UH" authority having jmisdiction and Waler, and Open Land
shall be performance tested when first installed on-site. Each
protective, switching, and control circuit shall be a(ljusted in Clearance
accordance with the system de5ign and tested by actual opera-
Location m ft
tion using q.1rrent i1tjec tio11 or equivalent meth od s as necessary
to ensure that each and every suc h circuit operates cotTectly to Ope n land subject t◊ vehicles, !),6 18 ..5
the satisfaction of the authority h aving jurisdiction. cul Livation, or gra zing
Roadways, d1iveways, parking lots. 5.6 18.5
(1) Instrument Thansformers. All insu·ume nt tra.nsforme ns and a lleys
shall be tested to verify correct polarity and burden. Walkwa)'S 4.l 13.5
(2) Protective Relays. Eac h protective relay shall be demon- Rails 8.1 2fi.5
strated to operate by i1tjecting c urrent or voltage, or hotJ1, a t Spaces ,md ways for pedesuians 4.4 14.5
d1 e associate d insu-ume nt tI'ansfonner output termina l and and restricted traffic
o bserving that d1e associated switching and signaLiHg function.~ Wat.er areas no t s uitable frn' ri.2 17.0
occur correctly and in prnper time and sequence i:o accomplish boating
tl1e protective li.111ction inte nded.

2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL E LECTRICAL CODE 70-87

225.61 ARTICLE 230 - SERVICES

225.61 CJearances over Buildings and Other Structures. General Part I

(A) 22 kV Nominal to Ground or Less. The clearances over Overhead Service Conductors Part 11
Underground Service Conductors Part Ill
buildings and other structures for conductors and live part5 up Service-Entrance Conductors Part IV
to 22 kV, nominal , to ground or less shall he not less than the Service Equipment- General Part V
values shown in Table 225.61. Service Equipment- Disconnecting Means Part VI
Service Equipment- Overcurrent Protection Part VII
(B) Over 22 kV Nominal to Ground. Clearances for the cate- Services Exceeding 1000 Volts. Nominal Part VIII
gories shown in Ta ble 225.61 shall be increased by 10 mm Serving Utility
(0.4 in. ) pe r kV above 22,000 volt~.
In forma tio nal Note: Fo r add itio nal informat.io n, $ee ANSl/ lEEE Overhead Underground
Last pole Street main
C2-W I 7. N,11io11at EIHctrirnt Safely Coc/P.

Part 11 Overhead Underground Part 111

Table 225.61 Clearances over Buildings and Other Structures service conductors service conductors
230.24 Clearances Depth of burial 230.32
and protection
Horizontal Vertical
Clearance from Conductors
or Live Parts from: m ft m ft
Service head Terminal box,
Building walls, prnjections, 2.3 7.5 meter, or other
enclosure
a nc.l windows
Balconic~, catwalk~, and 2.3 7.5 4.1 13.5
similar areas accessib le to
people Service-entrance Part IV
conductors
Over or wider roots or :\.8 12.5
projectio ns no t readil y
accessible to people Service equipment-general Part V
Over rool:s accessible to· 4.1 13.5 Grounding and bonding Article 250
veh icles but not trucks
Over roofs accessible to 5.6 l l:l.5 Service equipment-
disconnecting means Part VI
IJ'Ucks
0 th er struc.t,1res 2.11 7.5 Service equipment-
overcurrent protection Part VII

Branch circuits Articles 21 o, 225

Feeders Articles 215, 225

ARTICLE 230
Services
FIGURE 230.1 Services.

230. l Scope . This article covers service conductors and equip- (fi) System s designe d fo1· conne ction to muJtipl e sources of
ment for control an.rt protection of services and th e ir installa- s upply for th e pmpose of enJian ced reliability
tio n re qui remen t~.
(B) Special Occupancies. By special pe rm ission, additional
lnf'orma uo nal Note: See Fig ure 230 ,1.
services shall be permitted for e ither of the following:
(1 ) Multiple-occupan cy buildings whe re the re is no available
Parl I. General space for service equ ipmen t accessible to a ll occupan ts
(2) A singl e build ing o r t1th e r struc ture sufficie ntly la1·ge to
230.2 Number of Services. A b~Li ldi11g or other stru cture ma ke two o r more services necessary
served shall be supplied by on ly one service LU1less permitted in
230.2 (A) through (D) . For the purpose of 230.40, Exception (C) Capacity Re quirements. Additional services sh all be
No. 2 only, unde rgro und sets of conductors, l / 0 AWG and permitted under any of rl1e fo llowing:
lar ger, running to the s,une locatio n and con11ected together at (1 ) \!\The re the capacity re[Juirement~ are in ex cess of
th eir supply end but not connected t0getl1er at their load e nd 2000 amperes at a supply voltage of J 000 volt~ or less
shall be considered to be supplying o n e se1·vice. (2) W he re the load requirements of a single-phase installa-
(A) Special Conditions. Additional se1-vices shall be permitted tio n a re greater than the serving agency no rmally
to supply the fo llowing: supplies thx·ough one service
(3) By special permission
(l ) Fire pumps
(2) Eme rge ncy syste ms (D) Different Characteristics. Adrlitional services shall be
(3) Legally requixed sta ndby syste ms p ermitted for diffe re nt vpltages, freque ncies, or phases, or fo r
(4) Optional standby systems di.fferent mes, such as for differe m rate schedules .
(5) Pa1·allel powe r productio n system s

70-88 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020falition

 ARTIC'..LE 230 - SERVICES
(E) Identification. v\'he re a building or structure is suppli.erl
by more tha n o n e ser vice , or any combinatio n o f branch
circuits, feede rs, and services, a permane nt plaque o r directory
shall be installed at e ach service disconnect locatio n de noting
a ll othe 1· se rvices, fe ede rs, and bra nch c ircuit~ supplying tha t
building o r str uc ture and the aJ·ea served by each. See 225.37.
230.3 One Building or Other Structure Not to Be Supplied
Through Another. Se rvice cond uctors supplying a building or
othe r structLU·e shall no t pass through the inte 1·ior of another
building or o thersu-ucrure .
230.6 Conductors Considered O utside the Building. Conduc-
tors sha ll be considered out~ide of a building o r oth er su·ucture
Lmder an y of th e fo llowing condiLio ns:
(l ) Where insta lled unde r not less than 50 mm (2 in.) of
conc re te be neath a building o r other sLn1ct1.tre
(2) Where installed within a building o r o the r structure in a
r aceway tha t is e ncased in conc rete or brick no t less tha n
50 mm (2 in.) thick
('.1) Where installed in a ny vault that meets tJ1e construc tio n
requirem ents of ArLicle 450, Pa rr ill
(4) \!\'here installed in conduit and under no t less tha n
450 mm (1 8 in.) of earth be neatJ1 a buildi11g or other
strucuire
(!'i) \'\'here installed within rigid metal conduit (Type Rl\llC)
o r inte rme diate m eta l cond uit (Type IMC) used lo
accomm odate th e clearan ce reqult·eme nt~ in 230.24 and
routed directl y through a n eave hut no t a wall a f a build-
ing
230.7 Other Conductors in Raceway or Cable. Cond ucto rs
o ther tha n service conductors sha ll no t be insta lled in tJ1e same
service raceway or service cable in whic h the service cond uctors
a1·e installed.
Exmption No. 1: Oroimdin[I el,1ctrode wnductors or s1.1j)f1ly side bond-
ing.furnrpers or conductors shall be permitted ttJith-in service raceways.
Exception No. 2: l oad management control rondiu:lors having ovrrc1.1r-
rent protection. shall be f1Prmitted tuithin semice raceways.
230.8 Raceway Seal. ,'\There a ser vice raceway e nte rs a building
o r su·uctw·e fro n, an u nde1·g-r0 Lmd rlistribuLio n syste m, it sha ll
be seale d in accord.rnce with 300.5(G) . Spa re or uJ1used race-
ways shall a lso be seale d. Sealants sh a ll be identified for tL~e
witJ1 tJ1e cable insulati on , shie ld, o r o ther compo ne n t~.
230.9 Clearances on Buildings. Service conductors a nd fina l
spa ns shall comply with 230.9(A) , (B), and (C) .
(A) Clearances. Service conductors installed as ope n conduc-
to rs o r multiconduc tor cable witho ut an o verall outer j acket
shall have a clea rance o f not less than 900 mm (3 ft) fro m
windows that are desig·ne d to be opened, doors, po rches, ba lco-
nies, Ladders, stairs, fire escapes, or similar locatio n s.
Exwptian: Conductors run above the top levrl rrf a window shall be
perrnill.ed lo he li>.ss than the 900 rnm (3 JI) requirnnenl.
(B) Vertical Clearance. The vertical clearance of final spans
a bove, o r wid1 in 900 mm (3 ft) measured h o rizontally of plat-
fo rms, proj ectio ns, or surface s tJ1at will permit persona l con tact
shall be ma intaine d in accordance wi th 230.'i!'l(B) .
(C) Building Openings. O verhead service condu ctors sha ll n ol
be insmlled benea d1. op enings thr()ugh which materials may he
moved, such as o pe nings in farm a nd commercial build ings,
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL E LECTRICAL CODE
230.24
and shall no t be installed where they o bstruct e ntran ce co th.ese
building o pen ings.
230.10 Vegetation as Support. Vegetation such as trees shal l
not be used fo r suppo rt of overhead service cond ucrors o r serv-
ice e quipme nt.
Part II. Overhead Service Conductors
230.22 Insulation or Covering. Individual cond ucto rs shall be
insulated or covered.
Excepti<m: The grounded ronductor of a multirnnr.tuctor cable sluill be
permiUed to be ha:re.
230.23 Size and Anlpacity.
(A) General. Conducto1·s shall have sufficien t am pa city to
carry the curre nt for the load as calcula te d in acco rda nce with
Article 220 an d shall have ade gua te mechanical su·ength.
(B) Minimum Size. The conductors shall no t be sm aUer U1an
8 AWC coppe r or 6 AWC a lurnimun or coppe r-clad aluminum.
l:.'xce/1tion: Condtu:lors siipplying only lirnilNl loads rrf a sing!,e branr/1
ci1ruit - such as s111r1ll polyplwse f)()wer;_ con/rolled waler h.eatn:1, and
similar load~ - shall not be srnalli,r than 12 A WG hcml-rlrawn t(//Jp er
o•r tquiv(d(Jnl.
(C) Grounded Conductors. The grounded cond uctor shall
no.t be less d1an the minim um size as re quired hy 250.24(C) .
230.24 Clearances. O verhead ser vice conductors shall not be
readily accessible and sha ll comply with 230.24(A) throug h (E )
for services n ot over LOOO volt~, no min al .
(A) Above Roofs. Conducto rs sha ll have a vertical clearnnce of
nor less tJ1a.n 2.5 m (8 ft) above the roof sw·face. The vertical
cleara nce a bove the roof level shall be ma intaine d for a
distance o f no t less tha n 900 mm (3 fl) in a ll direc tions fro m
the e dge of t11e roof.
Exceptimi No. 1: ThP rnm above a. mofsniface s11b.fecl lo j)ridPstrian or
veh.icidar traffic shall have a vertical dearanfl' from the roof s·iirfaa in
accordanrr tvith the rlearance requiremm1ts of230. 24(B).
J,,xceptirm NQ. 2: Where the volt1.1gr' bett(•ren C<mductors does no! exCPed
300 and the roof has a slope of 100 mm in 300 mm (4 in. in 12 in.) m·
gr1:aln; 11 rpdi1.rtion in d mra·11ce lo 900 mm (3 ft) slwll be /mwiiLtrd.
ExCf'Plivn No. 3: Where the voltagP. betwe1m umdm:tm·s dors not exawf
300, a mdi1cLion in cluirancf! above only the overhanging portiou of l it/'
roof lo not less than 450 mm (18 in.) shall be />Brmitted if ( 1) not more
than 1.8 1ll (6 fl) of overhead service condurtors, 1.2 m. (4 fl) horizon-
tally, J>a.ss abovr1 tlw roof overhang, and (2) they a.re terminated al o
1hm1.i.gh-1h.e-mof ratlfl.u(1y or (lj1fnvvP<,l S?lflfJOrt.
Informationa l Nme; See 230.28 for rna.sL, upporLS.
J:.'xcept-i,m No. 4: The requirement for ma.irrtafning the ve,tical clear-
ance 900 mm (3 fl) from the edge of the wof shall not apjJly lo thP final
rnnductor span whern llw service dmjJ or ovG'rhfad servicfl cm1.dv1"for.;
are a11adwl to Lhr sidP of a liuilding.
l:,xreption No. 5: Where the vollag~ bt>ltur.en condurtors does not exceed
300 and Litt' roof area is guarded or isolaled, a redtteli<m in cleamrrre
to 900 mm (3 ft) shall b~ permitted.
70-89
230.24 ARTICLE 230 - SERVICES
(B) Vertical Clearance for O verhead Service Conductors.
Overhead se1-vice conductors, where n ot in excess of 1000 volts,
nominal, shall have the fo llowing minimum clearance from
final g rade:
(1) ,HJ m (] 0 ft) - at the electrical .~ervice enmmce to build-
ingi,, al50 at the lowest point of the drip loop of the build-
ing e leca·ical entrance, and a bove a.rea.5 or sidewalks
accessible only to pedestrians, measured from final gnde
01· orher accessible surface o nly fo r overhead service
conductors supported on and cabled together witJ1 a
g rounded bare messenger where the voltage does not
exceed 150 volt5 to g1·otmd
(2) 3.7 rn (12 ft) - over residential property and driveways,
and those commercial areas not subject to truck traffic
where the voltage does not exceed 300 volts to ground
(3) 4.!'i m ( 15 ft) -for those areas Listed in the 3.7 m (12 ft)
classification where th e voltage exceeds 300 volL5 to
ground
(4) 5.5 m ( LS ft) - over public streeL5, alleys, roads, parking
areas subject co truck traffic, driveways on 01.he1· than resi-
dential property, and other land .5u ch as cultivated, graz-
ing, forest, and orchard
(5) 7.5 m (24½ ft) over cracks of railroads
(C) Clearance from Building Openings. See 230.9.
(D) Clearance from Swimming Pools. See 680.9.
(E) Clearance from Communication Wires and Cables. C lea.r-
anee from communication wires and cables shaU be in accord-
ance with 800.44(A) (4).
230.26 Point of Attachment. ll1e point of a ttachment of the
overhead se1-vice conductors to a building o r oth er structure
shall provide the m inimum clearances a5 specified in 230.9 and
230.24. In no case shall th is point of attachment be less than
3.0 m ( 10 ft) above finis heel grade.
230.27 Means of Attachment. Multiconductor cabl es used. for
overhead service conductor·s shall be attached tO buildings or
oth er strucrures by fittings identified for use with se rvice
conductors. Open conduc tors shall be attached to fitting·s iden-
tified for use with service conduc tors or to noncombustible,
nonabsorbent insulators securely attache d to w e building or
other structure .
230.28 Service Masts as Supports. Only power se1-vice-drop or
overhead service conductors shaU be permitted to be attached
Lo a service masL Service ma~ts used for the support of service-
drop or overhead service conductors shall be installed in
accordance with 230.28(A) and (B) .
(A) Strength. The service ma.~t shall be of adequate su-ength
or be supported by braces or gu)' wires t.o withstand safely the
stra i.n imposed by th e ser-vice-drop or overhead service conduc-
torn. Hubs intended for U5e with a conduit tJrnt serves as a serv-
ice mast shall be ide n tified for use witJ1 sen~ce-entrance
equipment.
(B) Attachment. Ser1~ce-drop or overhead service conductors
shall not be attached. to a service ma~t between a wead1erhea.d
or the end of the conduit and a cotipling, where d1e coupling
is Located a bove the last point ofsecureme.nt to the building or
other structw·e or is located above the building o r other struc-
tLtre.
70-90
230.29 Supports over Buildings. Service conducto rs passing
ove1· a roof shall be securely supported by substantial struc-
tures. For a grounded ~')'Stem, whe1·e the substantial su·uccure is
metal, it shall be bonded by means of a bonding j umper and
listed connector to the grounded overhead service conducto1·,
1,Vhere practicable, such supports shall be independent of the
building.
Part fil Underground Service Conductors
230.30 Installation.
(A) Insulation. U nderg:row1d service conducto1·s shall be insu-
lated for the applied voltage.
E>::ception: A grounded cond11.ctor shall be fJe-rmilled to b1• uninmlated
as follows:
( 1) Bare cof)j}fr used in a ral'eway
(2) Barf coPfurrfor dimt lmrial wlumt bare. copf*r is af,prvved for the
soil conditions
(3) Barr ,;opj1w for dirert bmial wilhout 1y,gard lo soil rm1dilions
where part of a cable assem/J9, identified for undr,rground me
( 4) A lwnimtrn or co/1/>eH;lad alurninwm witho1.tl indiuidua,l insula-
tion or covering where /Jart of a cable assembly identified for
wndergrmmcl usr in a raceway or for dir('(;t bwictl
(B) Wrring Methods. Underground service conducwrs shal l
be in..5talled .u1 accordance with the applicable 1·equire mencs of
this Corlr, covering the type of wiring method tL,ed a nd shall be
Iimi red to the follo\\i.ng methods:
(1) Type RMC conduit
(2) Type IMC conduit
(3) Type NLICC conduit
(4) Type HDPE cond uit
(5) Type PVC conduit
(6) Type RT RC comlLtit
(7) T)'pe IGS cable
(8) Type USE conductors o r cables
(9) T)rpe MV or Type MC cable identified for d irect burial
appl ica.tions
(Hl ) Type MI cable, w here suitably protected agains t physical
damage and corrosive conditions
230.31 Size and Ampacity.
(A) General. Underground service conductors shall have SLLffi-
cien t ampacicy to carry 1:he ctu-rent fo r the k1ad as calculated in
accordance with Article 220 and sha ll have adequate mechani-
cal strength.
(B) Minimum Size . The conductors shall not be smaller tl1an
8 AWG copper or 6 AWG aluminum or copper-dad a lurn i1rnrn.
J.-.xce/1tion: Conduc/ots supplying only limited load~ of a singl.e branch
rin:uit - sw:!t as small pol)1Jftase /1ower, controlled water heatn-s, and
sirnilar loads - shall nol be smaller than 12 A \IVG copper or I OA WC
alwnim.1,m, or copjJeH:lad al'w minwn.
(C) Grounded Conductors. T he grounded conductor shal l
not be less than tl1e mu1imum size required by 250.24(C) .
230.32 Protec tion Against Damage. Undergro w1d servi.ce
conductors shall be protected against damage in accordance
with 300.5. Service conductors e ntering a buildu1g or other
stru ctLtre shall be installed in accordance with 230.6 01· protec-
ted hy a racewaywiru1g me thod identified in 230.43.
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTIC'..LE 230 - SERVICES
230.33 Spliced Conductors. Service conductors shall be
permitted to be spliced or tapped in accordance with 110.14,
300.5(E), 300.13, and 300.1 5.
Part IV. Service-Entrance Conductors
230.40 Number of Service-Entrance Conductor Sets. Each
service drop, set of overhead service ci;rnductors, set of under-
g round service conductors, or service lateral shall supply o nly
one set of se1vice-en u·ance conductors.
Exceplion No. 1: A building tni.th rnmt than one orcuprJnry shall be
/Jwmitted lo have one set of sRrvice-entrancR ronductors for mdi service,
a.r permil.led in 230.2, nm lo each occ'UJ/>ancy or gm-up of occw/1ancies.
If tlu nurnb1tr of service disrnnned [orations for any givRn classification
of service does nol exrPe,t si.x, lhe requirements of 230.2(£) shall af>ply
at each lorn.tfon. if tlw number of service dfo:onru<,;/ {orations r,:,:,;e11ds
six for any given S1.1.f1p!:y classijira1ion, all servicP disconnect loi·a1ions
for all s·u/1pl:y clmracleri.stics, togrthtr with any branch 1-imiit or jfeder
supply sources, if a/1plicable, sh(J,ll be rlmr~ described using graphics or
wxt, or both, on O'lle or 1110/"P plaques ln,;ated in rm fl,/J/Jmv11d, readily
accessible location(s) on lhe building or s/ruct-u·w sn-ved and as near as
j>rarticable to !he point(s) of 11ttachment or entry(ies) for earh service
drof> or service lateral rm(l for each set of overhead or wnder6n-ound serv-
ir:(1 conr.litr.lon.
Exception No. 2: Where two to six sl'rvi1,P dfo:onn11rting means in sepo,-
ratP mc!nsitrPJ a:re grouped at one location and supply sepam,tP loads
from one servicP dro/1, set of overhead service conducto1:f, set of 'I.I nd11r-
gmwnrl service conduclor.1, m· servir.e latem,L one set of se1vice-entrance
rnndi1,ttors slwll be fHfl'!llitled to sup/1ly mch or sroeml s·uch service
equi/nnen t enrlosures.
.Exception No. 3: A. onefamily dwelling uni.t and its accessmy sJ,mc-
tures shall be p11rmilifd to luiv11 one s<ft of servire-eritrance conductors
run lo each jr01n a single service drop, sPt of overhead service conduc-
tor.., sel of unde,gmund .w,rvi1:e mnd1,1don, or servite lateral.
Exception No. 4: Twofr.tmily dwPllings, multifmnil:y rlwellingr, and
mnl/iple occupancy buildings shall br /Je17n.i/f.ed to luwf onr srt of
servi1:e-e•n tmnte condutlors installed to su.pply thr circuits covered in
210.25.
Exception No. 5: One set of service-'i!ntra.nct' conductors connected to lhe
.sit/>ply side <if the normal srrvit:e disconnecting 111rans shall b<i pennWed
lo si.1ppl:y eacl, or several systems ravered by 230. 82(5) or 230.82(6).
230.41 Insulation of Service-Entrance Conductors. Service-
enmrnce conductors entering o r on the exterio r of buildings
or other su·uctures shall be insulated.
Excrption: A gnmndPd conditclor shall be /Jennilled to be iminsulaled
ci1-Jol[ows:
(1) Bare copper usnl in a mct.1.uay or part ofa service cable assembly
(2) &trf copper for direcl bwial where barP i:optJer if o.pjm1ved for the
soil conditiom
(3) Bare cof>jJer for direr/ burial wilhoul regrmt lo soil mnditi<ms
where part ofa a1blr nss1m1bly identified Jqr 1.mdergmund ti.St'
(4) Aluminwn or ro/1/Jrr-dwi al'l.lmimJ•rrt iuilhoul individual in.sulo-
tion or covering where /Jar/ of a cabll' (lssembly or idmtified for
undergtrn.vnd usr in a rw:nuay, orfor direct b·witd
(5) Bate conduct.ors used in an auxiliary [!yl ter
230.42 Mmimum Size and Ainpacity.
(A) Geueral. Service-enmtnce conductors sha ll have a n
ampacity of not less than the maximum. load to be served.
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
230.43
Conductors sha ll be sized not less tha n the la rgest of 230.42(A)
( 1) or (A)(2) . Loads shall be determined in accor·dance with
Part Ill, IV, or \I of Article 220, as applicable. Ampacity shall be
determ ined from 3 10. 14 and shall complyw:ith 11 0.14(C). The
maximum current of busways shall be that value for which the
hLL~way has been listed or labeled.
l nlonnational No1e: For information on buswavs, see UL 8fi7,
Slrinrlard(or Safely for B11s-wr,ys. •
(I) Vlfhere the service-entrance conductors supply conti.nu-
ous loarfa or any combination of n o ncontinuous and
continuous loads, the minimum service-enu·ance conduc-
tor size shall have an ampacity not less than the sum of
the noncontinuous loads plus 125 percent of continuous
load5.
Excl'pli<Jn No. I: Omunded rnnductm;~ //tat arp not conneclnl lo an
overcttrrenl devia shrill be pennilled t.o bi' sized at 100 perrml of lhP
.57,mi oflite contimwus and noncontinuous load.
Exception No. 2: The sum of the noncontinuous load and !he contirm-
ous load if the service-entrancl' cond·11ctors J,errninale in an overcurrent
droice whn·~ both Liu: cmerrnrmnl device and i fs a,1Scrnbly cirf! listPd for
o/111ration at I on />~rrenL of (heir rating shall be jJermitted.
(2) The minimum service-enu·ance condm;to1· size sha ll have
an a mpacity not less than d1e maximum load to b e served
after d1e application of any adjustment or co1Tection
factors.
(B) Specific Installations. In addition to d1e req1.ti.remenl~ of
230.42(A), t11e m inimum ampacity for ungrounded conductors
for specific installa tions shall not be less than th e nlting of the
service disconnecting mea11.~ specified in 230. 79(A) through
(D) .
(C) Grounded Conductors. 1l1e grnunded conduclor shal l
not be smaller d1an d1e minimum size a~ required by
250.24(C).
230.43 Wiring Methods for 1000 Volts, Nominal, or Less.
Service-enu·ance conductors sha ll be insta lled in accordance
wil11 the applicable requiremeJ1t~ of d1is Code covering the type
of wiring metJ1od used and shall be limi ted to d1e following
method5:
( 1)Open wi1ing on i11.5u la tors
(2) Type IGS cable
(3) Rigid meta l conduit (RM.C)
(4) Intermediate tUetal conduit (Th1C)
(5) Electrical metallic tubing (EMT)
(6) Electrical nonmetallic tubing
(7) Service-enu·ance cables
(8) Wireways
(9) Busways
(10) Auxiliary gutters
( 11 )Rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit (PVC)
( 12) Cablebus
( I '.~)
Type MC cable
( 14) Mine ral-insulated, metal-sheathed cable, Type Ml
( 15) Flexible metal conduit (FMC) not over 1.8 m (fi ft) lo ng
or liquidtight flexible metal conduit (LFMC) not ove1·
1.8 m (6 ft) long between a raceway, or b etween a race-
way and service equipme nt, wid1 a supply-side bo nding
jumper routed wil11 l11e flexible meta l conduit (FMC) or
the liquidtight fl exible metal conduit (LFMC) according
to 250.102(A), (B), (C), a nd (E)
( 16) Liquidtight flexible nonmetallic conduit (LFNC)
70-91
230.44 ARTICLE 230 - SERVICES

( L7) High density polyeth ylene conduit ( HOPE)
(18) Nonmetallic underground conduit with condu ctors
(NUCC)
( 19) Re info rced thermosetting resin conduit (RTRC)
(20) Type TC:-ER cable
230.44 Cable Trays. Cable tray sys tems shaU be permitted to
support service-en tran ce conductors. Cable tTays used to
support service-en1:1:a11ce conductors shall cont.iin only service-
entrance conductors a nd shall be Limited to th e following
methods:
(I) Type SE cable
(2) Type MC cable
(3) Type l'v11 cable
(4) Type lGS cable
(5) Single conductors l / 0 and la1-ger that are liste r! for use in
cable u-ay
(6) Type TC-ER cable
Such cable trays shaU be identified wil.h pe rmanently affixed
label~ with the wording "Service-Entra nce Conductors.'' The
la bels sha ll be located so as to be visible after ins tallation with a
spacing not to exceed 3 m ( IO ft) so that th e service-emrance
conductors are able to be readily traced thro ugh the e ntire
length of the cable tray.
Exception: Con.rfoclors, oth11r than seivice-mtrance conductors, shall he
fNrmitted lo he insl.a/led in a cabtr, tray with s1Jrvice-entranN condur-
tors, /1rovided a solid fixed barrier of a waterird annpatible with the
cable tray is installed lo separate I.he servim-nitmnce condw:lors jfrnn
other tondittlors installed in Litt cabl,e l·ray.
230.46 Spliced and Tapped Conductors. Service-en trance
conductors sha ll be permitted to be spliced or tapped in
accordance with 110.1 4, 300.5 (E) , 300. l 3. and 300. 15. Power
clistribution blocks, pressure connectors, and devices for splices
and taps sha ll be lisLed. Power distributio n blocks irt~taJled on
service conductors shall be marked "suitable for LL~e on the line
side of the service equipment" or equivalent.
Effective J a nuar y l , '.:!023, press ure connectors a nd devices
for splices a nd taps installed on se rvice conductors shall be
marked "suitable for use on the line side of the service equip-
me nt" 01- equivale nt.
230.50 Protection Against Physical Damage.
(A) Underground Service.Entrance Conductors. Under-
grntmd service-entran ce conductors shall be protected again~t
physical damage in accordance with 300. 5.
(B) All Other Service-Entrance Conductors. All other se1-vice-
e nu-ance conductors, othe r than w1derground service e ntrance
conductors, shall be protected against physical damage as
specified in 230.50 (B) ( l ) or (B) (2) .
(I ) Service-Entrance Cables. Service-entrance cabl es, where
s ul?jec1. to physical damage, sha U be protected by a ny of the
following:
(l ) Rigid metal conduit (RMC)
(2) Inte rmediate metal conduit (IMC)
(3) Schedule 80 PVC conduit
(4) Elecu·ical metallic tubing (EMT)
(.5) Re inforced the rmosetting resin conduit (RTRC)
(fi) Other approved means
(2) Other Than Service-Entrance Cables. Individua l open
cond uctors and cables. oLher tl1an service-entrance cables, sh all
not be in~talled witl1in 3.0 rn ( IO ft) of grade level or whe re
exposed to physical cla,.mage.
Exclj1tion: ?3'/1e Ml and ?ypt MC cable .1lwll be f1ermiltn} within 3. 0 m
(10 ft) of grade level where not exposed to physical damagr1 or where
/1rot.tcted in acco·,danre with 300.5(D).
230.51 Mounting Supports. Sen~ce-emrance cables or individ-
ual open se1v ice-e nu·,mce conductors shall be supported a~
specified in 230.51 (A), (B ), or (C) .
(A) Service-Enttance Cables. Service-entra nce cables shall be
supported by straps or other approved mea ns within 300 mm
( l2 in .) of every service head , gooseneck, or connection to a
raceway or en closure and a t interval~ not exceeding 750 mm
(30 in.) .
(B) Other Cables. Cables tl1at are not approve~! for mou11Ling
in contact with a building o r other su-i.1cnire sha U be mo unted
on insula ting supports installed at inte1val5 not exceeding
4.5 m (15 ft) and in a manner tl1at maintains a clearance of not
less than 50 mm (2 in .) from the smface over which they pass.
(C) Individual Open Conductors. Individual open conductors
shall be installed in accordance with Table 230.51 (C). Where
exposed to the weatl1e r, tl1e conduc to rs shall be mounte d on
insulators o r on insulating supports attached to racks, brackets,
or other approved means. Where not exposed to ~he weatl1e1~
the conductors shall be mounted on glass o r porcelain kn o bs.
230.52 Individual Conductors Entering Buildings or Other
Structw·es. Vl'here individual open conductors enter a build-
ing o r otl1er structure, tl1ey shall en.ter throu gh roof bushings
or tl1rough t11e wall in a n upward slant tl1rough i11dividual ,
n oncombusti ble, nona bsorbent ins ulating rubes. Drip loops
shall be formed o n the conductors before t hey enter tl1e tubes.

Table 230.!>l(C) Supports

Minimum Clearance
Maximum Distance Between
Maximum Supports Between Conductors From Surface
Volts m ft mm in. nun in.
1()()0 2.7 !) 150 (j 50 2
1000 4.5 15 300 12 50 2
300 1.4 4½ 75 3 50 2
1000* 1.4* 4½* fi5* 21/,* 25* I*
*Wh ere n ot exposed to weath er.

70-92 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition

 ARTTC'.J...E 230 - SERVICES
230.53 Raceways lo Drain. Where exposed co the weather,
raceways enclosing service-entrance conductors shall be Listed
or approved for use in wet locations and arranged to drain.
Where embedded in masonry, raceways shall be arranged to
drain.
230.54 Overhead Service Locations.
(A) Service Head. Service raceways shall be equipped with a
service head at the point of connection to service-drop or over-
head service conductors. The service head shall be lt5ted fot·
use in wet locations.
(B) Service-Entrance Cables Equipped wilh Service Head or
Gooseneck. Se rvice-entrance cables shal l be equipped with a
service head. The service h ead shall be listed for use in wet
locations.
1'.'xception: Type SE cablP shnll be permilled l.o be fc111ned in a goosenPck.
and taf1Nl with a selfsmling wealheMesistant lhemt0/1lastic.
(C) Service Heads and Goosenecks Above Service-Drop or
Overhead Service Attachment. Service heads on raceways or
service-entrance cables and goosenecks in service-ent.r~mce
cables shall be located a bove the poim of attachment of the
service-drop or overhead sen1ice conductors to tl1e building o r
otJ1er strucuu-e.
Exception: Whe1e il is im/1rru;ticnble to locaLP. the service head or goosf-
nerk r1bo11e the. point. of attadwwnl, the Sl'l't1ice hrnd or goosem'd: lotr1r
lion shall be f1enniiled not farther Lhan 600 m.m (24 in. )from the jJoinl
of attaclirnent.
(D) Secured. Se1·vice-e ntrnnce cables sha ll be he ld securely in
place.
(E) Separately Bushed Openings. Service heads shall have
conductors o:f different potential brought out through sepa-
rately bushed openings.
t :xCPption: For jarketed mullimndnrtor servict-mtrrtncP w/)[e w-il/101.1.t
sf1lice.
(F) Drip Loops. D rip loops shall be formed on individ ual
conductors. To prevent Lhe entrance of moisture, servi.ce-
enu·ance conduclors ~hal l be c(rnnected to tJ1e service-drop or
overhead service conductors eitJ1er (l ) below the level of the
service head or (2) below the level of the termination of the
service-entrance cable sheatJ1.
(G) Arranged That Water Will Nol Enter Service Raceway or
Equipment. Service-entrance and overhead service conductors
shall b e atTanged so that water will not e nter service rnceway or
equipment.
230.56 Service Conductor with the Higher Voltage to Ground.
On a 4-wire, delta-connected service where the midpoint of one
phase winding is grounded, the service conductor h aving the
higher pha5e voltage to ground shall be dttrably and perma-
nently marked by an outer fmish that is orange in colo1~ or by
otJ1er effective means, at each termination or junction point.
Part V. Service Equipment - General
230.62 Service Equipment - Enclosed or Guarded. Ener-
gized parrn of service equipmem sha ll be enclosed as specified
in 2S0.62 (A) or guai·cled a5 specified in 230.62 (B).
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
230.70
(A) En.closed. Energized parrn sha ll be enclosed so rJ1at they
will not be exposed to accidental contact or sha ll be guarded as
in 230.o2(B) .
(B) Guarded. Energized pai·ts that are not enclosed shall be
installed on a switchboard, panelboard, or control board and
guarded in accordance with 110.18 and 110.27. Where ener-
gized parts are guarded as provided in 110.27(A)( l ) and
(A)(2), a means for locking or seal ing doors providing access
to energized parts shall be provided.
(C) Barriers. Barriers shall be placed in service equipment
such that 11.0 tminsulaled. ungrounded service bmbar or serv-
ice tenninal is exposed to inadvertent contact by persons or
maintenance equipme nt while servicing load terminations.
230.66 Marking.
(A) General. Service equip1nent rared at 1000 volts or less
shall be marked to identify it as b eing suitable for use as service
equipment. All service equipment shall b e listed or field evalu-
ated.
(B) Meter Sockets. Meter socket5 sha ll not be considered serv-
ice equipment but .~hall be listed and rated for the voltage and
current rating of the service.
Exceptim1: Meter socliet.s suf!'pli.ed hy and wnder the exclusive control of
an electrir utility shall no/ be req'lliil'd lo be listed.
230.67 Surge Protection.
(A) Surge-Protective Device. All services supplying dwelling
units shall be provided with a surge-protective device (SPD).
(B) Location. The SPD shall be an integral part of the service
equipment or shall be located immediately adjacent there LO.
Exception: 171.e SPD shall nol be required lo be localed in the servir.e
equipment as required in ( B) if located at ear:h next ll!tJel distribution
eqnipment rlownstn:11111 toward the load.
(C) Type. The SPD shall be a Type J or Type 2 SPD.
{D) Replacement. Where service equipment is replaced, a ll of
the requirement~ oftJ1.is section shall apply.
Part VL Service Equipment- Disconnecting Means
230.70 Gen.era!. Means sha ll be provided to disconnect all
ungrounded conductors in a building o r other structure from
the service conductors.
(A} Location. The service disconnecting me ans shall he
installed in accordance with 230. 70(A) ( 1), (A) (2), and (A) (3).
(I) Readily Accessible Location. The service disconnecting
means sh all be installed a t a readily accessible location either
ou tside of a building or structtu·e or inside nearest the poiHL of
entrance o f the service conductors.
(2) Bal.brooms. Senice clisc;:01rnect.ing means sha ll not be
installed in bathrooms .
(3) Remote Control. Where a n :mote control device(s) is used
to acmate rJ1e servic;e di~connecting me;u1s, the senrice discon-
necting means shall be located in accordance ·with
230.70(A)(l}.
(B) Marking. Each service disconnect shall be permanently
marked to identily it as a service disconnect.
70-93
230.70 ARTICLE 230- SERVICES
(C) Suitable for Use. Each service disconnecting means shall
be suitable for the prevailin g conditio ns. Service equipment
installed in hazardous (classified) locations shall comply with
tJ1e require ments o f Articles 500 through 517.
230.71 Ma.xi.mum Nmnber of Disconnects. Each service shall
have only one disconnecting means unless the requirements of
230. 7 1(B) are m el.
(A) General. F01- the (JLu-pose of this section, disconnectiJig
means installed a5 part of listed equipment and tL5ed sole ly for
the following shall not b e considered a service disconnectiJig
n1.eans:
( 1) Power monitoring equipme nt
(2) Surge-protective device(s)
(3) Control circuit of the ground-fault protection system
(4) Powe r-opera ble service disconnecting rnea11.5
(B) Two to Six Service Disconnecting Mean1,. Two to six serv-
ice disconnects shall be permitted for each service permitted by
230.2 or for each set of se1vice-enu·ance co nductors permitted
by 230.40, Exception No. l , 3, 4, o r 5. The Lwo to six service
d isconnecting mea11s shall be permitted to consist of a co mbi-
nation of any of the following:
(1) Separate enclosures with a main se1v ice disconnecting
means in each e nclosure
(2) Panelboards with a main service disconnecting mea ns in
each pa.ne lboard e nclosuxe
(3) Switchboanl(s) where the re is only o ne service discon-
nect in each separate vertical seccion where there are
barriers .~eparating each vertical section
(4) Sen?ice dhconnect~ jn switchgear o r metei-i..ng centers
where each disconnect is located in a separate compart-
me nt
Lnfonnatinnal Note No. I: Metering centers are addressed in UL
67. Standmd(or Pane/boards.
lnfornrn l.lnnal Note No. '.!: Examples of separate e nclosures wir.h
a main service disconnecLing means in each e ncJns11re include
b ut are nol limiterl to moLOr control cemers, fused disconnects,
circu it breaker enclosu res, and U.J.nsfer swicches 1.hat a re suitable
for lL~e as service equipmen c.
230.72 Grouping of Disconnects.
(A) General. The lwo to six disconnect~, if perm itted in
230.71, shall be grouped. Each disconnect shall be marked to
indicate the load served.
1.-.'xcefilion: One of lhr two to six urvia disconnecting rneans permitted
in 230. 71, where twrl only for a water purnfJ alw1 intn11lerf lo pmvide
Jfre protection, shall be pmnilled to be located rnnQlP jh)llt the ot!ter
disconnecting means. If remotely instalkd in acl'ordancr tuilh this
exception. a plaque shall be posted at lhe location of 1/11• remaining
grouped dis,;onneds denoting its lorn/ion.
(B) Additional Service Disconnecting Means. The one OT
mo1·e addjtional service disconnecting mea1is for fire pumps,
e mergency systems, legal ly re quired standby, 01· optional
standby services permitted by 230.2 sha U be installed remote
from the one to six service disconnecting means for normal
service to minim ize the possibility ofsirnuJ tan eous interruptio n
of supply.
(C) Access to Occupants. In a multiple-occupa11ey building,
each occupant shall have access to the occupant's service
disconnecting mea1i s.
70-94
E:xc,:ption: ln a m·ullifile-ocmpanL)' building tuhere electric servir,e and
elel'tri,;al mainlenanre m·p f1mvided by thf b'uilding rnanag11numl. and
tuhere LhPse are under Ctmli1w.om buildi.ng mana,gement supervision,
the service disconnecting means supplying more than one oanjJanty
.f/wll be permitted to be accessible to rw lharized 111anagemen/ fJersonnet
on0'·
230.74 Simultaneous Opening of Poles. Each service discon-
nec t shall simnltaneow;ly- disconnect <1ll ungrn1111ded service
conductors diat it controls from the prem ises wiring syste m.
230.75 Disconnection of Grounded Conductor. Where die
service disconnecting means does not di~co nnect the grounded
conductor fro m tJie premises wii-i.ng, otJi er means shall be
provided for dus purpose in Lhe service e quipment. A terminal
or bus to which all g rounded conduc tors can be attached by
means of pressure connectors shall be pern1itted for th is
pLU'pose. ln a multisection switchboard or switchgear, discon-
n ect, for the growided conductor shall be permined to be in
all)' section of the switchboard o r switchgear.
Informational Note: In switchgear or multisection switchboards,
che disconnecl.lng means prO\ided fo r th e grou nded conductor
is typically identified as a neutral disconnect link and is typical ly
loc,tted in the bus m which th e service gro w1ded conductor is
con nectecl.
230.76 Manually or Power Operable. The service disconnect-
ing means for ungro unded service conductors shall consist of
one of the following:
(l) A manually operable switch or c ircuit breaker equipped
with a hand.le or od1e,- suitable o perating means
(2) A p ower-opera ted switch or circuit breake1~ provided die
switch or circuit hreaker can be opened by ha nd in d1e
event of a power supply failure
230.77 Indicating. The setv ice disconnecting means shall
plainly indicate whed1er it is in the open (off) or closed (on )
position.
230.79 Rating of Service Djsconnecting Means. The service
disconnecting meani; shall have a rating no t less than the calcu-
la ted load to be carried, dete rmined in acco,-dance with
Part ]JI, IV. or V of Article 220, a~ applicable. In no ca~e sh all
the ratiJig be lower dian specified in 230.79(A), (B), (C), or
(D).
(A) One-Circuit Installations. Fo.r installations to supply only
limited loads of a single bra nch circuit, the service disconnect~
ing m.ea11s shall have a rating of not Jess than 15 amperes.
(B) Two-Circuit Installations. For insta llations consis ting of
not m ore tJ1an two 2-wire bran ch circuits, the service d iscon-
necting mean., shall have a rati ng of not less than :~O a111peres.
(C) One-Family Dwellings. For a one-family dwelling, the sen1-
ice disconnecting means shall have a rating of not less d1an
1.00 amperes, 3-wire.
(D) All Others. for all other installations, tJie service discon-
necting means shall have a ra ting of not less than 60 amperes.
230.80 Combined Rating of Disconnects. Where d1e service
disconnecting mea ns consist5 of more d1an o ne switc h or
ci.rCLtit breake r, a5 pern1itted by 230.71 , d1e combined ratings of
all the switch es or circuit breakers used shall n ot be less than
the rating required b y 230.79.
230.81 Connection to Terminals. The service conductors shall
be connected to 1J1e se1-vice disconnecting mean s by pressure
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTTC'.J..E 230 - SERVICES
connectors, clamps, or other approved means. Co nnections
that depend on solder shall not be used.
230.82 Equipment Connected to the Supply Side of Service
Disconnect. Only the following eguipmenl sha ll be permi.tted
to b e connected to the supply side of the service disconnecting
means:
(l ) Cable limiters.
(2) Meters and meter sockeL5 nominally rated not in excess
of l 000 volts, if all metal housings and service enclosures
are g rOLmded in accordance with Part VII a.nd bonded
in accordance with Part V of Article 250.
(3) Meter disconnect switches nominally rated not in excess
of 1000 volt5 that have a short-circuit current r a ting
equal to or greater than the available fault c urrent, if all
metal hoi1sings and service enclosures are grounded in
accordance with Pan VIT a nd bonded in accordance
with Part V of Article 250. A meter disconnect switch
shall b e capable of interrupting the load served. A m eter
disconnect shall be legibly field marked o n it~ exte1-ior in
a ma1me1· suitable for the enviro nment as follows:
METER DISCONNECT
NOTS8tVfCEEQUIPNffiNT
(4) Instnunent transformers (current and voltage), irn pe-
dance shw1t5, Load ma nageme nt devices, surge arresters,
and Type ] surge-protective de,~ces.
(5) Conductm·s LL~ed. t o supply load management devices,
cil'cuits for standby power systems, fire pump equip-
ment, and fire a nd sprinkler alarms, if provided with
service equipme nt and installed in accordance with
requirements for se rvice-entrance conduc tors.
(6) Solar photovoltaic systems, fue l cell systems, wind elec-
u·ic systems, e nergy storage systems, or interconnected
electric power production sources, if provide d with a
di~c01111ecting means Li.~ted as suitable for use as service
equipment, and overcurre nt protection as s pecified in
Pa rt VII of Article 230.
(7) Control circ uit5 for power-operable service disco nnect-
ing means, if suitable overcutTent protection and discon-
necting means are provided.
(8) Ground-fault -protectio n systems or Type 2 su rge-
protective devices, where installe d as part of listed equjp-
me nt, if suitable overcmrent protection and
disconnecting means are provided.
(9) Connections used only to supply listed communications
equipment unde r the exclusive control of the serving
e lectric ntili ty, if suitable overcu rrent protection a11d
disconnecting means a re provided. for installations of
equipment by the sening elecu·ic utility, a cliKonnecti ng
means is n ot required iJ the supply is installed as part of
a meter socket, suc h that access can on ly be gained with
the meter removed.
(10) En1e rgency disconnects in accordance with 230.85, if a ll
metal l10usings and service enclosures aJ'e grounded in
accorda nce with Part Vll and bonded i.n accordance
with Pa rt V of Article 250.
( 11 ) Mete 1~mounted mmsfer Sl\~tches nominally rated not in
excess of 1000 volt5 that have a sh ort-circuit curre nt
rnting egual to or greater tha11 the available fault
curre nt. A meter-mo unted trans fer switch shall be listed
a11d be capable of U<11Hferring the load serve d. A meter-
mounted trat"L~fer switch shall be marked on it~ exterio r
with both of the following:
a. Meter-mounted transfer switch
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL E LECTRICAL CODE
230.91
b. Not service e quipment
230.85 Emergency Disconnects. For one- and two-family dwell-
ing units, all service conducto rs shall terminate in disconnect-
ing mea ns having a short-circui1 current rating equal to or
grea te r than the availa ble fau lt current, install ed in a readily
accessible outdoor location. If more than one disconnect is
provided, they sha ll be grouped. Each disconnect shall be one
of the fo llowing:
( 1) Sen~ce disconnects marked a~ fo llows:
EMERGENCY DISCONNECT,
SERVICE DISCONNECT
(2) Meter disconnects installed per 230.82(3) and m a rked as
follows:
EMERGENCY DISCONNECT.
METER DfSCONNECT,
NOT SERVICE EQU1PMENT
(3) Other listed disconnect switcl1es or circ uit breakers on
the supply side of each service d isconnect that are suita-
ble for use a..~ se1·vice equipme nt and marked as follows:
EMERGENCY DISCONNECT,
NOT SERVICE EQUIPMENT
Markings shall comply with l L0.2 1(B).
Part VIl. Service Equipment - Overcurrent Protection
230.90 Where Required. Each UJ1grounded service conductor
shall have overload protec tio n.
(A) Ungrounded Conductor. Such protection shall be p rovi-
ded by an overcurrenr device in series with each trngrorn1ded
service conductor t11at has a rating or setting not higher than
tJ1e am pac ity of the conductor. A set of fuses sha ll be consid-
ered all the fuses re quired to pro tect all the ungrounded
conductors ofa circuit. Single-pole circuit breakers, grouped in
accordance wit11 230.7 1( B), sha ll be conside red as o ne pro tec-
tive de,ice.
Exceprinn No. I: Fnr motar-strtrting currents, ratings th.al cmnply tvit h
430.52, 430. 62, and 430. 63 shall lie permitted.
E.,ccr,plion No. 2: P1.1ses and tirciiit brenkel'.5 with 11 mting or sPt/ing thal
rnm/1lirs tvith 240.4(8 ) or (C) and 240. 6 shall be pmnilled.
Exrn/llinn No. 3: 11110 lo six cirtuit breaker.. or sets of jil.ses .1hall bP
permitler.t as the overcurrenl device to Jm1vide the overload /m1tection.
T he sum of the ratings ofthe rircuit breakers orj1L5es shall be /Jerrnitted
to exi:n1d thri ampacity of lite servit:e wndw:tors, pmvided .the m lrul.ated
load does not exreerl the 4rnfJacity of thf sf'.rvirR conductors.
.Exceptinn Nn. 4: Overlo«d protection for fire pump su.pply conduct,ors
shall i:omp!:y with 695.4(B)(2)(a).
Exc1:pti1m No. 5: Over!J.1ad protntionfor 120/24 0-volt, 3-wire, singlli-
phase dtvrlling services shall lie jiermiUerl in rttcordance tvilh the
wquirements of310.12.
(B) Nol in Grounded Conductor. No O\'ercurre nt device shal l
be inser ted in a grounded service conductor except a c ircuit
brea ker t11at simultaJ1eously opens a ll conductors of the c ircuit.
230.9 1 Location. The servi ce ove rcurrenL device sha ll be an
integral part of the service disconnec ting means or sha ll be
located immediately adj acent thereto. , vh ere fuses are u5ecl as
the service overcurrenL device, the disconnecting means shall
be located ah ead of the supply side of th e fuses.
70-95
230.92 ARTTCLE 230 - SERVICES
230.92 Locked Service Overcurrent Devices. V\lhere the ser""
ice overcun-ent devices are locked or sealed o r are not readily
acces•;ible to the occupant, branch-circuit or feeder overcw·-
rent devices shall be installed on the load side, shall be moun-
ted in a readily accessible location, and shall be of lower
ampere rating than the service overctuTent device.
230.93 Protection of Specific Circuits. Where necessary to
prevent tampering, an automatic ove1-curren t device th<1t
protects se1-vice conductor·s supplying onl)' a speciftc load, such
a~ a water heater, shall be permitted to be locked or sealed
where located so as co be accessible.
230.94 Relative Location of Overcurrent Devfoe and Other
Service Equipment. The overcurrent device shall protect all
circuits and devices.
Excej1tion No. 1: TIU' service switch shall be permil.ted on the supj,ly
side.
l!.' xcef1tion No. 2: High-impPdance shunt circuilf, surge arresters,
Typ,, I .mrgp-protertivl' dr,vir:es, snrge-protective wpa1;ilor.1~ and instm-
mnit transformers (current, and voltagp) shall be pn-nlilled lo be conner-
ted and insta/lnl o-n tfu, supply sic/I' of the service disconnerting mams
as permillerl by 230.82.
l.xcef1tion No. 3: Cirwits for lorut management devires shall be permit-
/rd lo be con11erterl on the sttfJ/Jly side of tlw sn·vice overcurrent df'llil'I'
wll11te se/J1Zralely /1rovid~d with overrurrenl /nvterlion.
Excef1tion No. 4-: Cirrnils usrd nnly for the opera/ion offii'P alann, other
protective sign11ling syslmns, or the su/tply to fire pump eq•tiifmienl shall
be /1ennitted lo be mnnl!f;ted on the si1pply sidP of the srrvicR overcurrenl
r/evfoe whem separately f1rovid11d with overcurwnt protertion.
Exreption No. 5: Meters nominally ratNl not in exr;fss of 600 voltr sha.ll
br fwrrnitu-d, provided all rnetal hmtsin~ and servire enr:ln.mre.,s- arP
grownrled.
Excej1ti.Qn No. 6: Whem srr,1.,ife equ.ifJtn.rnt is power operable, the control
circuit shali be /1rrmitted lo be connected ahead of lhe servicr equipm.enl
if mitab/P OVfl"C!trrent pmt~rtirm rmd dimmnerting means Cl/'IJ {:l'rovi-
cled.
230.95 Ground-Fault Protection of Equipment. Ground-fault
protection of equipment shall be provided for solid ly grounded
wye electric services of more than 150 volts to ground but not
exceeding 1000 volt5 pha5e•to-phase for each service d iscon-
nect rated 1000 amperes or more . The grounded conductor
for the solidly grounded wye system shall be connected directly
to ground through a g ro unding electrode system. a5 specified
in 250.50, without inserting any resistor or impedance device.
The rating of the service d isconnect sh all be considered to
be the rating of the largest fuse that can be installed or the
highest continuo us cun-ent trip setting fo1· which the acn.1al
overcu1-rent device i.mtalled in a circuit breaker is rated or can
be adjusted.
ExreJ1tion: 171e gronndfr111tt j.rrolection jmroisions of lids srction sha.ll
not rippty to a servirP di5connPct for a conlinttQltS in.rl'tLtl'lial process
wherr' a nonorr.lr<rly shuldoton will introduce additicmal or inaensed
hazards.
(A) Setting. The gmtmd-fau.lt protection system shall ope rate
to cause the service d isconnect to open a ll ungrounded
conductors of the faulted circuit. The maximum setting of the
ground-fault protection shall be 1200 amperes, and the maxi-
70-96
mum time delay shall be one second for ground-faul t current5
equal to or greater than :IO00 amperes.
(B) Fuses. If a switch and fuse combina tion is used, the fuses
employed shall be capable of interrupting any current higher
tha n the interrupting· capacity of th e switch during a time that
the gi·ow1d-fault prntective system will not cause the switch to
open.
(C) Performance Testing. T he ground-fauJL protection system
shall be performa nce tested when first installed on site. T h is
testing shall be conducted by a qualified person(s) using a test
process of primary current injection, in accordance with
instructions th at shall be provided with the equipm enl. A wriL•
ten record of this testing s hall be made and sha ll be availa ble to
the a uthority havi11gjurisdiction .
Jnfom1aLiona'I Note No. I: Ground-fuulc protection. lha1 ftLnc-
1.ions Lo open the service disconnec1 affords no protection from
fau! LS on che line side of che protective elemenL L1 serves o nly to
limi1 d,1mage lO conducwrs and equipment on 1he load side in
the even1 of an arcing ground fauh on 1he load side of 1he
protecLive element.
[nfom1aLional Nore No. 2: This added prorective equipmen1 a1
the service eqLtipmenL may make it necessa1y to review the over-
all wiring system for proper selective overcurrent protection
coordina1inn. Addi1jonal ins1al.la1ions of ground-fault protective
eqtripmenL may be needed on feeders and branch ci rcuits where
maximum continuity of e lec rric service is necessary.
InformaLional Nore No. 3: Where ground-fault protection is
provided for the service disconnect and interconnection is made
wich another supply system by a transfer device, mea11S or devi-
ces may be n eeded m ensure proper grnund,faull sensing hy the
ground-fault protection equipmenL
lnfomrnLional Note No. 4: See 517.l 7(A) for informa1fon on
where an additional s1ep of g1:ound-fauh protection i, required
for hospitals and other buildings wir.h critical are,lS or life
sup pore eriuiprnen L.
Part VIII. Services Exceeding 1000 Volts, Nominal
230.200 General. Service condu ctm-s and equipment ·used on
cil"Cu it5 exceeding 1000 volts, nominal, shall comply with all the
applicable preceding sections of this article and with the follow-
ing sections that supplement or modify the preceding sect.ions.
l.n no case shall the provisions of Pa n V1l1 apply to e quiprnent
on the supply side of the service point.
Informational Note: f or clearances of conductors of over
l000 volL~. nominal, see ANSI/IEEE C2-2Ul7, Nalionetl t:uxtriml
Safety G,dt!.
230.202 Service-Entrance Conduc tors. Set-vice-en trance
conducto1·s to building-s 01- enclosures shall be installed to
conform to 230.202(A) and (B).
(A) Conductor Size. Service-entra nce conductors shall not be
smalle r- than 6 AWG unless in mult iconductor cable. Multicon-
ductor cable shall not be smaller than S AWG.
(B) Wiring Methods. Service-enffance con ductors shall be
installed by one of d1e wiring methocL5 covered in 300.37 and
300.50.
230.204 Isolating Switches.
(A) Where Required. V\'here o il switch.es or air, oil, vacuum, 0 1·
sulfur hexafluoride circuit breakers constitute the service
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2020Edition
 ARTfCLE 240 - OVERCURRENT PROTECTION
disconnecting mea.i1$, a.i1 isolaLing switch with visible break
contact.~ shall be installed on the supply side of the disconnect-
ing means and a ll associated service eqLtipmenl.
Exception: An isolating switch shall no/, be required where the circuit
breaker or switch ·is mounted on removable tmd, />lmeLs or switchgew·
units where both of !he following conditions appl~•:
(1) Cannot be Cf{1ened unless the circwil is disronnel'ted
(2) Wh11re all energized /Jarts are automaticrilly disconnected whe11
the tin:uil bmohcr or switch is removed fmm the normal operr.tting
position
(B) Fuses as Isolating Switch. Where fuses a.re of the type that
can be operated as a disco nnecting switch , a set of such fuses
shall be permitted as the isolating switch.
(C) Accessible to Qualified Persons Only. The isolating switch
shal l be accessibl e to qualified persons o nly.
(D) Connection to Ground. Isolating switch es shall be provi-
ded with a means for 1·eadily connecting the load side conduc-
tors to a grnunding e lectrode system, equipme nt ground
btL~bar, or grounded steel s1Tucture when disconnected from
the source of suppl)'.
A means for grounding the lm1d side conductors to a
grOLmding electrode system , equi.pment grow1ding bmbar, or
grounded structural steel shall not be required fo1· any dupli-
cate isolating switch instal.led and ma in tained by the e lectric
supply company:
230.205 Disconnecting Means.
(A) Location. The service disconnecting means shall be loca-
ted in accordance with 230.70.
For either overhead or unde1·ground primary d.isa-ibut.io n
systems on private property. the se rvice disconnect shall be
permitted to be located in a location that is n o t readily accessi-
ble, if the discormecting means can be operated by mechan ical
linkage from a readil)' accessible point, or e lectronically in
accordance with 230.205(C), where applicable.
(B) Type. Each service disconnect shall simultaneornly discon-
nect all ungmunded service conductors that it controls a.i1rl
shall have a fau lt-closing rati ng that is .not less tha n the availa-
ble fault current at it~ supply terminals.
Whe1-e fused switche.~ or separately mo unted fuses are
installed, the fuse charac teristics sh all be permitted to con u-ib-
ute to the fault-closing rating of the disconnecting mea.i1s.
(C) Remote Control. For mu.ltibuilding, indu~trial installa-
tions Lmder single manageme nt, the service disconnecting
means sha.11 be permitted to be located at a sepa rate building
or sa-uctw·e . ln such cases, ci1e se1·vice disconnecting m eans
shall be pern.1 itted LO be electrically o perated by a readily acces-
sible, remote-control device.
230.206 Overcurrent Devices as Disconnecting Means. ,.\There
the circ uit b1·eaker or alternative for it, as specified in 230.208
for service overctu-rent devices, meets the requirements speci-
fied in 230.205, it shall constitute the service di~connecting
means.
230.208 .P rotection Requirements. A short-circuit protective
device shall he provided on th.e l oad side of, or a5 an integral
pa rt of, tJ1e service disco nnect, and s ha ll protect all ung roun-
ded conductors that it supplies. The protective device sha ll be
2020 ll\lirjon NATIONAL £LllCTRIC-AL CODE
240.1
capable of detecti.ng an d imerrnpting all value s of c urren t, in
excess of it5 trip setting or rnelting point, that can occur at it5
location. A fuse rated in continuous a mperes not to exceed
three times the ampacity of the conductor, or a circ uit breaker
with a trip setting of not more than six times the a mpacity of
the conductors, shall be con sidered as providing the re quired
short-circuit protectio n.
Informational Nole: See Table 31 l.6U(C)(67) through Table
3ll .60 (C) (86) for ampacities of conductors rated '.!001 volts LO
35,000 volts.
Ove1·cunent devices shaLl conform to 230.208(A) a nd (B).
(A) Equipment T}pe. Equipme nt used to protect service-
e ntnmce conductors shall meeL the requi remenrn of Arti-
cle 490, Part IL
(B) Enclosed Overcurrent Devices. The resu-ic tto n to
80 percenc of ci1e rating for a n enclosed o ve rcurrent device for
continuous loads shall not apply to ovet·cwTent devices
installed in systems operating a t over LOO() volL5.
230.209 Surge Arresters. Surge arresters installed in accord-
ance with the require ments of Article 242 shall be pe rmitted on
each ungrounded overhead service conductor.
Informatio nal Note: Surge arresters may he referred Ill as lig ht-
ning arresters in older documents.
230.210 Service Equipment - General Provisions. Se1·vice
equipment, including instrument tra nsformers, sha ll conform
to Atiicle 490, Part I.
230.211 Switchgear. Switchgear shall consist of a substantial
metal su-ucture and a sheet metal e nclosnre. Where insta lled
over a combustible floor, suitabl e protection thereto sha ll be
provided.
230.212 Over 35,000 Volts. "''here the voltage exceeds
35,000 volts between conductors that enter a build ing, they
shall terminate in a switchgear compartment o r a vault
con formi ng to ci1e requirem e nts of 450.4 1 through 4.150.48.
ARTICLE 240
Overcurrent Protection
Part I. General
240.l Scope . Part5 I tluoug h VII of thi.~ article provide the
general require ments for overc w·rent pmtection and overcur-
r ent protective devices not mo1·e tha n 1000 volt~, no minal.
Part VIll covers overcun-ent protection for those portions of
s upe rvised in.clustt·ial installations operating at voltages of not
more than 1000 volt5, nominal. Part lX cove rs overcurrent
protection o ver 1000 volts, nomina l.
l nfi:,rmatio nal Note: Ove rcurre nt protectio n for conductors and
eq uipment is provided to open l he circuit if rhe curren1 reaches
a value t hat will cause a n excessive or dangerous temperature in
conductors or conducwr insulation. See a lso I 10.!-) for require-
me n ts for inte rrupting rat.ings and J JO. LO fo r require me nts for
prmect.ion against fmtlt curre n u;.
70-97