Which section covers outside taps of unlimited length?

Which section covers outside taps of unlimited length?

• A. NEC Section 240.21(B)(2)
• B. NEC Section 240.21(B)(3)
• C. NEC Section 230.6
• D. NEC Section 240.21(B)(5)

Answer: (D)

The concept here is how the NEC handles taps from a source to feed a load when the conductors can extend far outside the building. Normally there are limits on how long a tap can run, to prevent excessive voltage drop and overheating. There is, however, a specific allowance for outside taps that are of unlimited length, and that allowance is found in the section that addresses taps for feeders and services. That particular subsection explicitly covers outside taps of unlimited length, laying out the conditions under which such taps are permitted and how they must be protected. The other sections listed deal with different aspects of overcurrent protection or service rules and do not address the unlimited-length outdoor-tap situation.

The concept here is how the NEC handles taps from a source to feed a load when the conductors can extend far outside the building. Normally there are limits on how long a tap can run, to prevent excessive voltage drop and overheating. There is, however, a specific allowance for outside taps that are of unlimited length, and that allowance is found in the section that addresses taps for feeders and services. That particular subsection explicitly covers outside taps of unlimited length, laying out the conditions under which such taps are permitted and how they must be protected. The other sections listed deal with different aspects of overcurrent protection or service rules and do not address the unlimited-length outdoor-tap situation.