National Electrical Code

NEC Requirements in Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities

June 5, 2018

Highlights from Art. 514 of the NEC

Article 514 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) provides the requirements for motor fuel dispensing facilities. Here are some highlights from this area of the Code:

The requirements apply to locations where Class I [Art. 500] liquids are stored, handled, or dispensed [Sec. 514.3(B)].
Figures 514.3(A) and (B) are graphics that helps you understand how areas are classified when adjacent to dispensers.
Table 514.3(B)(1) is a large table that tells you the extent of the classified location based on its type of location and Division (Group D) or Zone (Group IIA). For example, for an outdoor remote pump that’s Division 1 the classified location is the entire space within any pit or box below grade level (if any part of the pit or box is within 10 ft horizontally from any edge of the pump). But for Division 2, the classified location is only 3 ft from any edge of the pump (extending horizontally in all directions).
Table 514.3(B)(2) is a small table pertaining to compressed natural gas (CNG), liquified natural gas (LNG), or liquified petroleum gas (LP-Gas).
New with the 2017 Edition of the NEC, Sec. 514.11 brings requirements for emergency disconnects.
Grounding and bonding must comply with Sec. 501.30 [514.16].

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.