Underground Electrical Service Entrance Under a Deck

8/8/2012 at 3:40:42 PM

David,

You should definitely check with the local municipality and hydro utility company regarding the sewer and hydro service. There may be special provisions required if you are going to permanently cover the utilities over an area (i.e. concrete patio) that will not be easily accessible in the future. However, if the utilities are located on your property, there may be no restrictions.

Better to check as mentioned and be covered.

8/8/2012 at 9:09:19 PM

It depends on your foundation for the addition. If it's a deck with tube footings, then you design and locate the footings away from the lines. Anything within 3 feet has to be hand dug. If you want a full or partial foundation, then they would most likely have to be moved.

First call for a utility locate to find out exactly were they are and then you can design from there.

8/9/2012 at 4:17:51 PM

From a hydro perspective, I would not be concerned about the underground portion. I would be concerned about the portion where the underground service enters the house. Normally this is above grade in a fitting called an "LB" fitting.

This fitting (or any other for that matter) must remain accessible. I would not worry about the conduit underground. If you service enters the home below grade (which used to be allowed) then theris nothingng to worry about.

The comments above are quite valid however should there ever be an issue where the conduit or water / sewer line need to be replaced.

Cheers

John

John Kuehnl-Cadwell

Master Electrician

Datawise Solutions Inc

8/9/2012 at 10:05:55 PM

No you do not have to remove them but you most call for a locate to make sure you do not dig into one of them. It is free for this service. Call Before You Dig 1-800-400-2255.

Good luck with your project.