Electrical Exam Term

Service Lateral

The underground electrical conductors from the utility's distribution system to the point of connection at the building's service entrance.

Detailed Explanation

Service laterals are the underground equivalent of service drops. NEC Article 230 Part III covers their requirements. They must be buried at the minimum depth specified in NEC Table 300.5 (typically 24 inches for direct-burial cable or 18 inches for conductors in rigid conduit). Service lateral conductors are usually installed by the utility, but the conduit and trench are often the responsibility of the electrical contractor.

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Practice QuestionEasy

Which of the following best describes the concept of Service Lateral?

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