What is the required minimum vertical clearance above grade for overhead service conductors over property?

The required minimum vertical clearance above grade for overhead service conductors is specified in the National Electrical Code to ensure safety and minimize the risk of electrical hazards. For overhead service conductors over property, the Code mandates a clearance of 12 feet. This height is established to allow for safe passage under the conductors, accommodating a range of vehicles and ensuring that people can walk beneath them without risk of contact.

Clearances are crucial because they help prevent accidental contact with the conductors, which could lead to severe injuries or fatalities. They also account for seasonal variations such as snow or ice accumulation that could decrease the height of the overhead lines. Thus, a vertical clearance of 12 feet ensures a sufficient margin of safety for both pedestrians and vehicles traversing the area below the conductors.