What is the minimum electrical service drop clearance required from a residential driveway?

The minimum electrical service drop clearance required from a residential driveway is 12 feet. This standard is established to ensure safety and accessibility for vehicles passing under the service drop. The clearance helps prevent accidental contact with the overhead service lines, which are electrically live and can pose a serious risk if struck by a vehicle.

In practical terms, maintaining a 12-foot clearance enables larger vehicles, such as trucks and recreational vehicles, to safely navigate without fear of damaging service lines or risking electrocution. Knowing this clearance is essential for home inspectors to identify potential hazards during an inspection and to ensure that residential installations comply with local electrical codes and safety standards.

Other clearances, like 13, 15, or 18 feet, may apply to specific situations or different types of structures, but for standard residential driveways, the established requirement is 12 feet.