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NEC Rules for Carnivals, Circuses, and Fairs

Aug. 20, 2018
Inside the National Electrical Code requirements concerning these portable structures

Article 525 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) provides the requirements for the portable wiring and equipment (and wiring in or on all structures) installed for carnivals, circuses, fairs, and similar events.

Chapters 1 through 4 apply, except as modified by Art. 525. Where there’s a difference, Art. 525 applies to the portable equipment [Sec. 525.3(A)]. Articles 518 and 520 apply to permanent structures at these venues [Sec. 525.3(B)].

Portable structures must be at least 15 ft in any direction from overhead conductors operating at 600V or less [Sec. 525.5(B)]. Obviously, the conductors supplying the structure don’t have to meet this requirement.

Service equipment can’t be accessible to unqualified persons, and it must be securely fastened to a solid backing [Sec. 525.10].

These venues tend to make extensive use of flexible cords and cables; make sure those are listed for extra-hard usage [Sec. 525.20(A)]. Arrange those cords and cables in a way that does not produce a tripping hazard [Sec. 525.20(G)]. Cord covers help satisfy this requirement while also protecting the cords.

Ground fault protection is required for 125V, 15A and 20A non-locking receptacles and branch circuits supplying equipment, where publicly accessible.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.

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