Code Q&A: Minimum Cover Requirements

Feb. 6, 2014

Your most pressing National Electrical Code (NEC) questions answered

Q. What are the minimum cover requirements for PVC and USE cable in commercial occupancies?

A. In commercial occupancies, the minimum “cover” requirement is 18 in. for PVC and 24 in. for USE cable in accordance with the requirements set forth in Table 300.5. Note 1 to Table 300.5 defines "cover" as the distance from the top of the underground cable or raceway to the top surface of finished grade, concrete or similar cover.

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.