RMP Horizontal and Vertical Clearance For Wires

TC 151 Clearances of Wires, Conductors, Cables, and Equipment from
Buildings, Bridges, and Other Installations

E n g in e e r :A .S h k u r a tk o v
Ap p r o v e r :R a c h e le Ha n n o n
1 8 Ap r 1 7
1 8 Ap r1 7
Disclaimers
Disclaimer for Rocky Mountain Power and Pacific Power employees: this standard provides a reference to the
National Electric Safety Code and has been expanded to cover common voltages used by Rocky Mountain
Power and Pacific Power. As an estimator or designer you are responsible for verifying that this standard is cur-
rent and that additional clearance requirements including but not limited to elevation adders, state and local
rules or regulations are applied appropriately or in concert with this standard.
Disclaimer for Contractors: this standard is developed for internal company use only and is provided as a ref-
erence document. Contractors are responsible for understanding and adhering to all federal, state and local
rules and regulations which may supersede this standard.
Purpose
This standard provides minimum clearances of wires, conductors, cables and equipment from buildings,
bridges, swimming pools, and other installations as required by the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC)
Rule 234. These minimum clearances must be maintained on all lines operated by Rocky Mountain Power and
Pacific Power in the states of Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. These clearances do not apply
in the state of California where General Order No. 95 is the governing regulation.
Scope
This standard contains extrapolated tables for company use from Rule 234 of the 2017 edition of the
NESC. This standard also contains tables that were not provided by the code, but were derived from applic-
able sections of the NESC Rule 234 (2017). Since the NESC (2017) provides clearance values for voltages
up to 22 kV or 50 kV line to ground, highlighted sections of the tables were developed to include clearance val-
ues for higher voltages used by the company. These values incorporate elevation adder and/or voltage
adder for all applicable line voltages and were calculated based on the NESC Rule 234G1 and 234G2
(2017).
NOTE 1: text in this font, that follows "NESC Rule" headings in this document is taken directly from NESC C2-
2017 (National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights
reserved. Figure titles, table headings, and footnotes indicate figure or table content that has been taken dir-
ectly from NESC C2-2017.
NOTE 2: it is the user’s responsibility to ensure that the calculated clearances are compliant with the most cur-
rent edition of the NESC.
Additional Clearances
1. Construction Tolerance – line construction has many aspects that have inherent variability, which
include but are not limited to mapping inaccuracies, structure setting depth variations, and conductor sag
variations. For transmission line construction it is strongly recommended that a construction tolerance of
three (3) feet be added to the clearances listed in this standard to ensure that the NESC minimum clear-
ances are met under the worst loading conditions.
Transmission Construction Standard

Page 1 of 34
Published Date: 18 Apr 17
Last Reviewed: 18 Apr 17
Deviation from this standard requires prior approval. Contact the standards engineering manager for approval processes and forms.
Printed versions of this standard may be out of date. Please consult the online standards for the most recent version. This standard shall be used and duplicated only in support of
PacifiCorp projects. ©2017 by PacifiCorp.
TC 151 Clearances of Wires, Conductors, Cables, and Equipment from Buildings, Bridges, and Other Installations
2. Elevation Adder – for voltages exceeding 50 kV line to ground and at elevations exceeding 3300 feet
above sea level, the additional clearance calculated from the NESC Rule 234G1 (2017) must be
increased by 3% for each 1000 feet in excess of 3300 feet above mean sea level. The tables in this stand-
ard list calculated values for elevations up to 12300 feet in increments of 3000 feet.
3. Local Governance – some state, city, or county authorities may require greater minimum clearances than
the NESC minimum clearances within their jurisdiction. It is the responsibility of the user to ensure com-
pliance with all pertinent ordinances for overhead line construction in the local area.
NESC Rule 234A (2017)
A. Application
In each of Rules 234B, 234C, and 234D, horizontal clearance requirements are specified for two conditions: (1) the con-
ductor without wind displacement (at rest), and (2) the conductor with wind displacement. In each case, the clearance
requirements for both conditions shall be satisfied.
1. Vertical and horizontal clearances (no wind displacement)
The vertical and horizontal clearances specified in Rules 234B, 234C, 234D, 234E, 234F, and 234I apply under
whichever conditions of the following conductor temperature and loading conditions produces the closest approach.
Rules 234A1a, 234A1b, and 234A1c apply above and alongside subject installations; Rule 234A1d applies below and
alongside subject installations.
a. 50 °C (120 °F), no wind displacement, final sag.
b. The maximum conductor temperature for which the line is designed to operate, if greater than 50 °C (120 °F),
no wind displacement, final sag.
c. 0 °C (32 °F), no wind displacement, final sag, with radial thickness of ice, if any, specified in NESC Table
230-1 for the zone concerned.
d. The minimum conductor temperature for which the line is designed, no wind displacement, initial sag.
EXCEPTION: Vertical or lateral conductors or cables attached directly to the surface of a supporting structure
in accordance with other rules are not subject to the provisions of this rule.
NOTE: The phase and neutral conductors of a supply line are normally considered separately when determining
the sag of each due to temperature rise.

Page 2 of 34
2. Horizontal clearances (with wind displacement)

Where consideration of horizontal displacement under wind conditions is required, the wires, conductors, or cables
shall be considered to be displaced from rest toward the installation by a 290 Pa (6 lb./ft.2) wind at final sag at 15 °C
(60 °F). The displacement of a wire, conductor or cable shall include deflection of suspension insulators. The dis-
placement of a wire, conductor, or cable shall also include deflection of a flexible structure if the highest wire, con-
ductor, or cable attachment is 18 m. (60 ft.) or more above grade.
EXCEPTION: Where the entire span is so close to a building, terrain feature, or other obstacle as to be sheltered
from the wind flowing across the line in either direction, the wind pressure may be reduced to a 190 Pa (4 lb./ft.2)
wind. Trees are not considered to shelter a line.
3. Transition between horizontal and vertical clearances
The horizontal clearance governs above the level of the roof or top of an installation to the point where the diagonal
equals the vertical clearance requirement. Similarly, the horizontal clearance governs above or below projections from
buildings, signs, or other installations to the point where the diagonal equals the vertical clearance requirement. From
this point the transitional clearance shall equal the vertical clearance as shown in Figures 234-1(a) and 234-1(b). This
rule should not be interpreted as restricting the installation of a trolley-contact conductor over the approximate center
line of the track it serves.
EXCEPTION: When the horizontal clearance is greater than the vertical clearance, the vertical clearance governs bey-
ond the roof or top of an installation, or projections from an installation, to the point where the diagonal equals the hori-
zontal clearance requirement, as shown in Figure 234-1(c).
Figure 1—Clearance Diagram for Buildings and Other Structures

Page 3 of 34
Figure 2—Transitional Clearance when H is Greater than V
NESC Rule 234B (2017) Clearances of Wires, Conductors, and Cables from Other
Supporting Structures
Wires, conductors, or cables of one line passing near a lighting support, traffic signal support, a supporting
structure of a second line, or intermediate poles in skip-span construction, without being attached thereto, shall
have clearance from any part of such structure not less than the following:
Horizontal Clearances
Table 1—Horizontal Clearance of Conductors from Other Supporting Structures NO WIND‡
Note: Table cell revisions are in the company's green table revision style and also italicized to help them stand out.
Horizontal clearance required without wind (ft.)
Conductor or cable Elevation: Elevation: Elevation: Elevation:
Sea level to 3300 ft. 3301 to 6300 ft. 6301 to 9300 ft. 9301 to 12300 ft.
Up to 22 kV phase-to-ground (ft.)† 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0
22 kV to 70 kV phase-to-ground
6.6 6.8 6.9 7.1
115 kV phase-to-phase (ft.)
7.1 7.3 7.5 7.7
7.6 7.9 8.1 8.4
9.0 9.4 9.8 10.1
11.3 11.9 12.5 13.1
14.9 15.8 16.7 17.6
† EXCEPTION: For effectively grounded guys and messengers, insulated communication conductors and cables, neutrals
meeting Rule 230E1, and cables of 300 V or less to ground meeting the requirements of Rule 230C1, 230C2, or 230C3, the
horizontal clearance may be reduced to 900 mm (3 ft.).

Page 4 of 34
‡ The NESC (2017) does not provide a table for horizontal clearances (without wind) of wires, conductors, or cables from
other supporting structures. The base value of 5.0 ft. was obtained from the NESC Rule 234B1a (2017), and the voltage
and elevation adders were calculated from the NESC Rule 234G1 and 234G2 (2017). The calculated values were rounded
up to the nearest tenth of a foot.
Table 2—Horizontal Clearance of Conductors from Other Supporting Structures WITH

WIND§
Horizontal clearance required when displaced by wind
Elevation: Elevation: Elevation:
Conductor or cable
(m.) (ft.) 3301 to 6300 ft. 6301 to 9300 ft. 9301 to 12300 ft.
(ft.) (ft.) (ft.)
Open supply conductors, 0 to 750 V① 1.1 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5
230C2 cable, above 750 V 1.1 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5
230C3 cable, above 750 V 1.1 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5
Open supply conductors,
1.4 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5
over 750 V to 22 kV
-- 4.7 4.7 4.7 4.7
-- 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2
-- 6.1 6.3 6.4 6.6
-- 6.6 6.8 7.0 7.2
138 kV phase-to-phase
-- 7.1 7.4 7.6 7.9
-- 8.5 8.9 9.3 9.6
-- 10.8 11.4 12.0 12.6
-- 14.4 15.3 16.2 17.1
① Does not include neutral conductors meeting Rule 230E1.

§ The non-highlighted portion of the table was copied from the NESC Rule 234B1b (2017), courtesy of IEEE, (National Elec-
trical Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved. The highlighted portion was
added to account for voltage and/or elevation adders for applicable voltages. These adders were calculated based on the
NESC Rule 234G1 and 234G2 (2017).

Page 5 of 34
Vertical Clearances
Table 3—Vertical Clearance of Conductors from Other Supporting Structures‡

Vertical clearance required (ft.)
Conductor or cable Elevation: Elevation: Elevation: Elevation:
Sea level to 3300 ft. 3301 to 6300 ft. 6301 to 9300 ft. 9301 to 12300 ft.
Up to 22 kV phase-to-ground (ft.)† 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5
5.5 5.5 5.5 5.5
46/69 kV phase-to-phase (ft.)†
6.1 6.3 6.4 6.6
6.6 6.8 7.0 7.2
7.1 7.4 7.6 7.9
8.5 8.9 9.3 9.6
10.8 11.4 12.0 12.6
14.4 15.3 16.2 17.1
† EXCEPTIONS 1 and 2 shall not be applied cumulatively.

EXCEPTION 1: For effectively grounded guys and messengers, insulated communication conductors and cables, and
neutrals meeting Rule 230E1 and for cables of 300 V or less to ground meeting the requirements of Rule 230C1, 230C2,
or 230C3, the vertical clearance may be reduced to 600 mm (2 ft.).
EXCEPTION 2: The vertical clearances may be reduced by 600 mm (2 ft.) if both of the following conditions are met:
i. The wires, conductors, or cables above and the supporting structure of another line below are operated and main-
tained by the same utility
ii. Employees do not work above the top of the supporting structure unless:
1. The upper circuit is de-energized and grounded per Rule 444D or temporarily insulated or repositioned, or
2. Other equivalent measures are taken.
NOTE: Clearances of wires, conductors, and cables from adjacent line structure guy wires are given in Rule 233.
‡ The NESC (2017) does not provide a table for vertical clearances of wires, conductors, or cables from other supporting
structures. The base value of 4.5 ft. was obtained from the NESC Rule 234B2 (2017), and the voltage and elevation adders
were calculated from the NESC Rule 234G1 and 234G2 (2017). The calculated values were rounded up to the nearest
tenth of a foot.

Page 6 of 34
NESC Rule 234C (2017)

Clearances of wires, conductors, cables, and rigid live parts from buildings, signs, billboards, chimneys, radio and tele-
vision antennas, tanks, flagpoles and flags, banners, and other installations except bridges
1. Vertical and horizontal clearances
a. Clearances
Unguarded or accessible wires, conductors, cables, or rigid live parts may be located adjacent to buildings, signs,
billboards, chimneys, radio and television antennas, tanks, flagpoles and flags, banners, and other installations and
any projections therefrom. The vertical and horizontal clearances of such rigid and nonrigid parts shall be not less
than the values given in Table 234-1 [Table 5 in this document] when at rest under the conditions specified in
Rule 234A1. These facilities may be installed beside, over or under buildings, building projections and other
installations, as illustrated in Figures 234-1(a), 234-1(b), and 234-1(c).
b. Horizontal clearances under wind displacement conditions
When the following conductors and cables are displaced from rest under the wind conditions identified in Rule
234A2, horizontal clearances from such conductors or cables to buildings, signs, billboards, chimneys, radio and
television antennas, flagpoles and flags, banners, and other installations shall be not less than those shown below:

Page 7 of 34
Table 4—Horizontal Clearances WITH WIND of Wires, Conductors, Cables, and Rigid Live
Parts from Buildings, Signs, Billboards, Chimneys, Radio and Television Antennas, Tanks,
Flagpoles and Flags, Banners, and Other Installations Except Bridges†
Conductor or cable
(m.) (ft.) 3301 to 6300 ft. 6301 to 9300 ft. 9301 to 12300 ft.
(ft.) (ft.) (ft.)
230C2 cable, above 750 V 1.1 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5
230C3 cable, above 750 V 1.1 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5
Open supply conductors, over
1.4 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5
750 V to 22 kV
-- 4.7 4.7 4.7 4.7
-- 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2
-- 6.1 6.3 6.4 6.6
-- 6.6 6.8 7.0 7.2
-- 7.1 7.4 7.6 7.9
-- 8.5 8.9 9.3 9.6
-- 10.8 11.4 12.0 12.6
-- 14.4 15.3 16.2 17.1

See Footnotes 9 and 10 to Table 234-1 [Table 5 in this document].
† The non-highlighted portion of the table was copied from the NESC Rule 234C1b, courtesy of IEEE, (National Electrical
Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved. The highlighted portion was
added to account for voltage and/or elevation adders for applicable voltages. These adders were calculated based on the
NESC Rule 234G1 and 234G2 (2017).

Page 8 of 34
2.Guarding of supply conductors and rigid live parts

Where the clearances set forth in Table 234-1 [Table 5 in this document] cannot be obtained, supply conductors and
rigid live parts shall be guarded. Supply cables meeting Rule 230C1a are considered to be guarded within the meaning
of this rule.
3. Supply conductors attached to buildings or other installations
Where the permanent attachment of supply conductors of any class to a building or other installation is necessary for
an entrance, such conductors shall meet the following requirements over or along the installation to which the con-
ductors are attached:
a. Energized service drop conductors, including splices and taps, shall be insulated or covered in accordance with
the following:
(1) For 0 to 750V, Rule 230C or 230D
(2) For over 750 V, Rule 230C1
This rule does not apply to neutral conductors meeting Rule 230E1.
b. Conductors of more than 300 V to ground shall not be carried along or near the surface of the installation
unless they are guarded or made inaccessible.
c. Wires or cables attached to and run along side the installation shall have clearances from the surface of the
installation not less than 75 mm (3 in.).
EXCEPTION: For open supply circuits of 0 to 750 V and supply cables of all voltages meeting Rule 230C1,
230C2, or 230C3, the clearance at the attachment points may be reduced to 25 mm (1 in.). No clearance from the
served structure is specified for such conductors anywhere else in the span where they are physically restrained by
a suitable bracket from abrasion against the served structure.
d. Service-drop conductors, including drip loops shall have a clearance of not less than the following:
(1) 3.0 m. (10 ft.) vertical clearance from the highest point of readily accessible roofs, balconies, attached
decks, fire escapes, or other attached structures over which they pass or to which they are attached.
EXCEPTION 1: For clearances above railings, walls, or parapets around balconies, decks, or roofs, use the
clearances required for row 1b(1),Table 234-1 [Table 5 in this document]. For such clearances where an out-
side stairway exists to provide access to such balconies, decks, or roofs, use the clearances required for row 2b
(2), Table 234-1.

Page 9 of 34
EXCEPTION 2: Where the voltage between conductors meeting Rule 230D does not exceed 300 V, or where the
voltage of cables meeting Rule 230C2 or 230C3 does not exceed 750 V, or where the cable meets Rule 230C1,
and the roof or balcony is not readily accessible, the clearance over the roof or balcony, including the drip loop
shall be not less than either of the following:
(a) 900 mm. (3 ft.)

(b) 457 mm. (18 in.) for a horizontal distance of 1.8 m. (6 ft.) from an approved raceway or support
located not more than 1.2 m. (4 ft.) from the edge of the roof and not less than 900 mm (3 ft.) for
the remainder of the horizontal distance that the cable or conductor passes over the roof or balcony.
A roof, balcony, or similar structure is considered readily accessible to pedestrians if it can be cas-
ually accessed through a doorway, window, ramp, stairway, or permanently mounted ladder by a
person, on foot, who neither exerts extraordinary physical effort nor employs tools or devices to
gain entry. A permanently mounted ladder is not considered a means of access if its bottom rung
is 2.45 m. (8 ft.) or more from the ground or other permanently installed accessible surface, or is
otherwise equipped with barriers to inhibit climbing by unauthorized persons.
NOTE 1: See Figure 234-2.

NOTE 2: See Table 234-6.
(2) Not less than 900 mm (3 ft) in any direction from windows.

EXCEPTION 1: This does not apply to service-drop conductors meeting Rule 230C3 above the top level of
a window.
EXCEPTION 2: This does not apply to windows that are not designed to open.
(3) Not less than 1.5 m (5 ft) horizontally from porches, decks, fire escapes, or other similarly attached struc-
tures.
(4) Not less than 900 mm (3 ft) vertical clearance below porches, decks, fire escapes, or similarly attached
structures.
NOTE: See Rule 232 for clearances above ground.
4. Communication conductors attached to buildings or other installations.
Communication conductors and cables may be attached directly to buildings or other installations.
5. Ladder space
Where buildings or other installations exceed three stories [or 15 m. (50 ft.)] in height, overhead lines should be
arranged where practical so that a clear space or zone at least 1.8 m. (6 ft.) wide will be left either adjacent to the
building or beginning not over 2.45 m. (8 ft.) from the building to facilitate the raising of ladders where necessary for
fire fighting.
EXCEPTION: This requirement does not apply where it is the unvarying rule of the local fire departments to
exclude the use of ladders in alleys or other restricted places that are generally occupied by supply conductors and
cables.

Page 10 of 34
NESC Rule 234G (2017)

Additional clearances for voltages exceeding 22 kV for wires, conductors, cables, and unguarded rigid live parts of
equipment.
Greater clearances than specified in Rules 234B, 234C, 234D, 234E, 234F, and 234J shall be provided where required
as follows:
1. For voltages between 22 and 470 kV, the clearance specified in Rules 234B, 234C, 234D, 234E, 234F, and 234J
shall be increased at the rate of 10 mm (0.4 in.) per kV in excess of 22 kV. For voltages exceeding 470 kV, the
clearance shall be determined by the method given in Rule 234H. All clearances for lines over 50 kV shall be
based on the maximum operating voltage.
EXCEPTION: For voltages exceeding 98 kV ac to ground or 139 kV dc to ground, clearances less than those
required above are permitted for systems with known maximum switching-surge factor. (See Rule 234H).
2. For voltages exceeding 50 kV, the additional clearance specified in Rule 234G1 shall be increased 3% for each 300
m. (1000 ft.) in excess of 1000 m. (3300 ft.) above mean sea level.
3. For voltages exceeding 98 kV ac to ground, either the clearances shall be increased or the electric field, or the
effects thereof, shall be reduced by other means, as required, to limit the steady-state current due to electrostatic
effects to 5 mA, rms, if an ungrounded metal fence, building, sign, billboard, chimney, radio or television antenna,
tank or other installation, or any ungrounded metal attachments thereto, were short-circuited to ground. For this
determination, the conductor shall be at a final unloaded sag at 50 °C (120 °F).

Page 11 of 34
Examples (not from the NESC)
Example 1 Line voltage line-to-line: 12.47 kV

Line voltage line-to-ground: 7.2 kV
Elevation: 4500 feet
Adjacent installation: deck
Governing clearance: vertical
Rule 234G1: N/A. Voltage is less than 22 kV to ground.
Rule 234G2: N/A. Elevation exceeds 3300 feet, but voltage is less than 50 kV to ground.
Reference expanded Table 5 (Expanded NESC Table 234-1):
• Column for open supply conductors between 750 V and 22 kV.
• Row for vertical clearance over or under balconies, porches, decks, and roofs readily access-
ible to pedestrians
Minimum required clearance 13.5 ft.
Example 2: Line voltage line-to-line: 138 kV

Line voltage line-to-ground:
Elevation: 9300 feet
Adjacent installation: roof, not readily accessible to pedestrians
Governing clearance: vertical
Rule 234G1: Applies. Voltage exceeds 22 kV to ground.
Rule 234G2: Applies. Elevation exceeds 3300 feet, and voltage exceeds 50 kV to ground.
Base value: 12.5 feet (Table 5 - Expanded NESC Table 234-1)
Minimum required clearance

Page 12 of 34
1 8 Ap r 1 7
1 8 Ap r 1 7
Table 5—(Expanded NESC Table 234-1) Clearance of wires, conductors, cables, and unguarded rigid live parts adjacent but not attached to buildings
and other installations except bridges
(Voltages are phase-to-ground for effectively grounded circuits and those other circuits where all ground faults are cleared by promptly de-energizing the faulted section, both initially and following subsequent breaker operations. See the defin-
itions section for voltages of other systems. Clearances are with NO WIND displacement except where stated in the footnotes below. See Rules 234A, 234C1a, 234C2, and 234H4.) Table revisions are in green and italicized.
Insulated Unguarded rigid
communication live parts, 0 to Open Supply Conductors
conductors and 750 V; Elevation Range: Sea Level to 3300 ft.†
cables; messengers; noninsulated Unguarded
overhead shield/ communication rigid live parts,
surge-protection conductors; Supply over 750 V to
wires; effectively Supply ungrounded cables over 22 kV; ungroun-

grounded guys; cables of 0 equipment cases, 750 V meet- ded
42 kV to 70 kV phase to-ground
Open supply
ungrounded por- to 750 V 0 to 750 V; and ing Rule portions of
345 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)


conductors,
tions of guys meet- meeting ungrounded por- 230C2 or guys
over 750 V to
ing Rules 215C4, Rule tions of guys 230C3; open meeting Rules
22 kV
215C5, and 279A1 230C2 or meeting Rules supply con- 215C4, 215C5,
(ft.)
exposed to 230C3 215C4, 215C5, ductors, 0 to and 279A1
0 to 300 V⑪ ⑯ ; (ft.) and 279A1 750 V ⑮ exposed to
neutral conductors exposed to open (ft.) over 750 V to
meeting Rule supply con- 22 kV⑤ ⑯
230E1; supply ductors of over (ft.)
cables meeting Rule 300 V to 750
230C1 V⑤ ⑯
(ft.) (ft.)
1. Buildings
a. Horizontal
(1) To walls, projections, and guarded
4.5② ⑦ 5.0② 5.0② 5.5② ⑨ 7.0② 7.5② ⑩ 7.7 8.2 9.1 9.6 10.1 11.5 13.8 17.4
windows
(2) To unguarded windows⑧ 4.5 5.0 5.0 5.5⑨ 7.0 7.5⑩ 7.7 8.2 9.1 9.6 10.1 11.5 13.8 17.4
(3) To balconies and areas readily
4.5 5.0 5.0 5.5⑨ 7.0 7.5⑩ 7.7 8.2 9.1 9.6 10.1 11.5 13.8 17.4
accessible to pedestrians③
b. Vertical⑭
(1) Over or under roofs or projections
not readily accessible to 3.0 3.5 10.0 10.5 12.0 12.5 12.7 13.2 14.1 14.6 15.1 16.5 18.8 22.4
pedestrians③
(2) Over or under roofs, balconies,
decks, or similar structures readily 10.5 11.0 11.0 11.5 13.0 13.5 13.7 14.2 15.1 15.6 16.1 17.5 19.8 23.4
(3) Over roofs, ramps, decks, and load-
ing docks accessible to vehicles but 10.5 11.0 11.0 11.5 13.0 13.5 13.7 14.2 15.1 15.6 16.1 17.5 19.8 23.4
not subject to truck traffic ⑥
† Unhighlighted columns courtesy of IEEE, (National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved. The highlighted columns are not in the NESC Table 234-1 (2017). They
were added to indicate minimum clearance requirements for voltages above 22 kV line to ground, and the values were calculated based on the NESC Rule 234G1 (2017). Values are rounded up to the nearest tenth of a foot.

Page 13 of 34
Printed versions of this standard may be out of date. Please consult the online standards for the most recent version. This document shall be used and duplicated only in support of PacifiCorp projects. ©2017 by PacifiCorp.
Table 5 (Expanded Table 234-1, continued) Clearance of wires, conductors, cables, and unguarded rigid live parts adjacent but not attached to
buildings and other installations except bridges
(Voltages are phase-to-ground for effectively grounded circuits and those other circuits where all ground faults are cleared by promptly de-energizing the faulted section, both initially and following subsequent breaker operations.
See the definitions section for voltages of other systems. Clearances are with NO WIND displacement except where stated in the footnotes below. See Rules 234A, 234C1a, 234C2, and 234H4.) Revisions are in green and
italicized.
Unguarded rigid
Insulated live parts, 0 to Unguarded Open Supply Conductors
communication 750 V; rigid live Elevation Range: Sea Level to 3300 ft.†
conductors and noninsulated parts, over
cables; messengers; communication 750 V to 22
overhead shield/ Supply conductors; Supply kV; ungroun-
surge-protection cables ungrounded cables over ded
portions of

wires; effectively of 0 to equipment 750 V meet- Open sup-
grounded guys; 750 V cases, 0 to 750 ing Rule guys ply con-


ungrounded portions meeting V; and ungroun- 230C2 or meeting ductors,
of guys meeting Rules Rule ded portions of 230C3; open Rules over 750 V
215C4, 215C5, and 230C2 guys meeting supply con- 215C4, to 22 kV
279A1 exposed to or Rules 215C4, ductors, 0 to 215C5, and (ft.)
0 to 300 V⑪ ⑯ ; neut- 230C3 215C5, and 750 V⑮ 279A1
ral conductors meet- (ft.) 279A1 exposed (ft.) exposed to
ing Rule 230E1; to open supply over 750 V
supply cables meeting conductors of to 22 kV⑤
Rule 230C1 over 300 V to ⑯
(ft.) 750 V⑤ ⑯ (ft.)
(ft.)
(4) Over roofs, ramps, decks, and
loading docks accessible to truck 15.5 16.0 16.0 16.5 18.0 18.5 18.7 19.2 20.1 20.6 21.1 22.5 24.8 28.4
traffic ⑥ ⑱
2. Signs, chimneys, billboards, radio and television antennas, flagpoles and flags, banners, tanks, and other install-
ations not classified as buildings or bridges ⑰
a. Horizontal④
1) To portions that are readily access-
4.5 5.0 5.0② 5.5⑨ 7.0② 7.5⑩ 7.7 8.2 9.1 9.6 10.1 11.5 13.8 17.4
ible to pedestrians ③
(2) To portions that are not readily
3.0 3.5 5.0② 5.5② ⑨ 7.0② 7.5② ⑩ 7.7 8.2 9.1 9.6 10.1 11.5 13.8 17.4
accessible to pedestrians ③
b. Vertical
(1) Over or under catwalks and other
10.5 11.0 11.0 11.5 13.0 13.5 13.7 14.2 15.1 15.6 16.1 17.5 19.8 23.4
surfaces upon which personnel walk
(2) Over or under other portions of
3.0 3.5 5.5 6.0 7.5 8.0 8.2 8.7 9.6 10.1 10.6 12.0 14.3 17.9
such installations ④
† Unhighlighted columns courtesy of IEEE, (National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved. The highlighted columns are not in the NESC Table 234-1 (2017). They were
added to indicate minimum clearance requirements for voltages above 22 kV line to ground, and the values were calculated based on the NESC Rule 234G1 (2017). Values are rounded up to the nearest tenth of a foot. Revisions
are in green and italicized.

Page 14 of 34
Table 6—Clearance of wires, conductors, cables, and unguarded rigid live parts adjacent but not attached to buildings and other installations except
bridges for voltages exceeding 50 kV line to ground and at elevations exceeding 3300 feet.†
Open Supply Conductors Open Supply Conductors Open Supply Conductors
Elevation Range: 3301 to 6300 ft. Elevation Range: 6301 to 9300 ft. Elevation Range: 9301 to 12300 ft.





Open supply con-
ductors, over
Clearance of
750 V to 22 kV
(ft.)
1. Buildings
a. Horizontal
(1) To walls, projections, and
7.5② ⑩ 9.3 9.8 10.4 11.9 14.4 18.3 9.4 10.0 10.6 12.3 15.0 19.2 9.6 10.2 10.9 12.6 15.6 20.1
guarded windows
(2) To unguarded windows⑧ 7.5⑩ 9.3 9.8 10.4 11.9 14.4 18.3 9.4 10.0 10.6 12.3 15.0 19.2 9.6 10.2 10.9 12.6 15.6 20.1
(3) To balconies and areas readily
7.5⑩ 9.3 9.8 10.4 11.9 14.4 18.3 9.4 10.0 10.6 12.3 15.0 19.2 9.6 10.2 10.9 12.6 15.6 20.1
b. Vertical⑭
(1) Over or under roofs or pro-
jections not readily accessible to 12.5 14.3 14.8 15.4 16.9 19.4 23.3 14.4 15.0 15.6 17.3 20.0 24.2 14.6 15.2 15.9 17.6 20.6 25.1
pedestrians③
(2) Over or under balconies,
porches, decks, and roofs readily 13.5 15.3 15.8 16.4 17.9 20.4 24.3 15.4 16.0 16.6 18.3 21.0 25.2 15.6 16.2 16.9 18.6 21.6 26.1
(3) Over roofs, ramps, decks, and
loading docks accessible to
13.5 15.3 15.8 16.4 17.9 20.4 24.3 15.4 16.0 16.6 18.3 21.0 25.2 15.6 16.2 16.9 18.6 21.6 26.1
vehicles but not subject to truck
traffic ⑥
† Unhighlighted columns courtesy of IEEE, (National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved. The highlighted columns are not in the NESC Table 234-1 (2017). This
table was created to indicate minimum clearance requirements for voltages above 50 kV line to ground and at elevations exceeding 3300 feet above sea level. The values were calculated based on the NESC Rule 234G1 and
234G2 (2017) and rounded up to the nearest tenth of a foot. Revisions are in green and italicized.

Page 15 of 34
Table 6 continued—Clearance of wires, conductors, cables, and unguarded rigid live parts adjacent but not attached to buildings and other
installations except bridgesfor voltages exceeding 50 kV line to ground and at elevations exceeding 3300 feet.†





Open supply con-
ductors, over
Clearance of
750 V to 22 kV
(ft.)
4) Over roofs, ramps, decks, and

loading docks accessible to truck 18.5 20.3 20.8 21.4 22.9 25.4 29.3 20.4 21.0 21.6 23.3 26.0 30.2 20.6 21.2 21.9 23.6 26.6 31.1
traffic ⑱
2. Signs, chimneys, billboards, radio and tele-
vision antennas, flagpoles and flags, banners,
tanks, and other installations not classified as
buildings or bridges⑰
a. Horizontal④
(1) To portions that are readily
7.5⑩ 9.3 9.8 10.4 11.9 14.4 18.3 9.4 10.0 10.6 12.3 15.0 19.2 9.6 10.2 10.9 12.6 15.6 20.1
(2) To portions that are not readily
7.5① ② ⑩ 9.3 9.8 10.4 11.9 14.4 18.3 9.4 10.0 10.6 12.3 15.0 19.2 9.6 10.2 10.9 12.6 15.6 20.1
b. Vertical
(1) Over or under catwalks and
other surfaces upon which per- 13.5 15.3 15.8 16.4 17.9 20.4 24.3 15.4 16.0 16.6 18.3 21.0 25.2 15.6 16.2 16.9 18.6 21.6 26.1
sonnel walk
(2) Over or under other portions
8.0 9.8 10.3 10.9 12.4 14.9 18.8 9.9 10.5 11.1 12.8 15.5 19.7 10.1 10.7 11.4 13.1 16.1 20.6
of such installations④
† Unhighlighted columns courtesy of IEEE, (National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved. The highlighted columns are not in the NESC Table 234-1 (2017). This table was cre-
ated to indicate minimum clearance requirements for voltages above 50 kV line to ground and at elevations exceeding 3300 feet above sea level. The values were calculated based on the NESC Rule 234G1 and 234G2 (2017) and roun-
ded up to the nearest tenth of a foot.

Page 16 of 34
1 8 Ap r 1 7
1 8 Ap r1 7
NOTE: The following notes appear courtesy IEEE, (National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited
Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved.
NOTE: The clearance values shown in this table are computed by adding the applicable Mechanical and Electrical (M
& E) value of Table A-1 to the applicable Reference Component of Table A-2b of Appendix A.
① Not used in this edition.
② Where available space will not permit this value, the clearance may be reduced by 2 ft. provided the wires, con-
ductors, or cables, including splices and taps, and unguarded rigid live parts have a covering that provides sufficient
dielectric strength to limit the likelihood of a short circuit in case of momentary contact with a structure or building.
③ A roof, balcony, or similar structure is considered readily accessible to pedestrians if it can be casually accessed
through a doorway, window, ramp, stairway, or permanently mounted ladder by a person, on foot, who neither exerts
extraordinary physical effort nor employs tools or devices to gain entry. A permanently mounted ladder is not con-
sidered a means of access if its bottom rung is 8 ft. or more from the ground or other permanently installed access-
ible surface or is otherwise equipped with barriers to inhibit climbing by unauthorized persons.
④ The required clearances shall be to the closest approach of motorized signs or moving portions of installations
covered by Rule 234C.
⑤ The portion(s) of span guys between guy insulators and the portion(s) of anchor guys above guy insulators that
are not effectively grounded shall have clearances based on the highest voltage to which they may be exposed due to a
slack conductor or guy.
⑥ For the purpose of this rule, trucks are defined as any vehicle exceeding 8 ft. in height.
⑦ This clearance may be reduced to 3 in for the effectively grounded portions of guys.
⑧ Windows not designed to open may have the clearances permitted for walls and projections.
⑨ The clearance at rest shall be not less than the value shown in this table. Also, when the conductor or cable is dis-
placed by wind, the clearance shall be not less than 3.5 ft.; see Rule 234C1b.
⑩ The clearance at rest shall be not less than the value shown in this table. Also, when the conductor or cable is dis-
placed by wind, the clearance shall be not less than 4.5 ft.; see Rule 234C1b.
⑪ The portion of anchor guys below the lowest insulator meeting Rules 279A1 and 215C5 may have the same clear-
ance as effectively grounded guys.
⑫ This footnote not used in this edition.
⑬ This footnote not used in this edition.
⑭ For clearances above railings, walls, or parapets around balconies, decks, or roofs, use the clearances required for
row 1b(1). For such clearances where an outside stairway exists to provide access to such balconies, decks, or roofs,
use the clearances required for row 2b(2).
⑮ Does not include neutral conductors meeting Rule 230E1.
⑯ These clearance values also apply to guy insulators.

Page 17 of 34
⑰ It is presumed that a flag or banner is fully extended but that there is no deflection or displacement of the flagpole
or other supporting structure due to wind and that the conductors, cables, or rigid live parts are not displaced by the
wind. The specified clearance is measured to the point of maximum displacement of the banner or flag towards the
overhead utility facility.
⑱ When designing a line to accommodate oversized vehicles, these clearance values shall be increased by the dif-
ference between the known height of the oversized vehicle and 14 ft.
NESC Rule 234D (2017)

Clearance of wires, conductors, cables, and unguarded rigid live parts from bridges
1. Vertical and horizontal clearances
a. Clearances
Unguarded or accessible wires, conductors, cables, or rigid live parts may be located adjacent to or within a bridge
structure. The vertical and horizontal clearances of such rigid and nonrigid parts shall be not less than the values
given in Table 234-2 [Table 8 in this document] when at rest under the conditions specified in Rule 234A1, as
illustrated in Figures 234-1(a) and 234-1(b).
EXCEPTION: This rule does not apply to insulated communication cables, effectively grounded guys, span
wires, and surge protection wires; neutrals meeting Rule 230E1; and supply cables meeting Rule 230C1.
b. Horizontal clearances under wind displacement conditions
When the following conductors and cables are displaced from rest under the wind conditions of Rule 234A2, hori-
zontal clearances from such conductors or cables to bridges shall be not less than those shown below:

Page 18 of 34
Table 7—Horizontal Clearance WITH WIND of Wires, Conductors, Cables, and Unguarded
Rigid Live Parts from Bridges†
Conductor or cable
(m) (ft.) 3301 to 6300 ft. 6301 to 9300 ft. 9301 to 12300 ft.
(ft.) (ft.) (ft.)
230C2 cable, above 750 V 1.1 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5
230C3 cable, above 750 V 1.1 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5
Open supply conductors,
1.4 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5
over 750 V to 22 kV
-- 4.7 4.7 4.7 4.7
-- 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2
-- 6.1 6.3 6.4 6.6
-- 6.6 6.8 7.0 7.2
-- 7.1 7.4 7.6 7.9
-- 8.5 8.9 9.3 9.6
-- 10.8 11.4 12.0 12.6
-- 14.4 15.3 16.2 17.1

See Footnotes 8 and 9 NESC Table 234-2 [Table 8 in this document].
† The non-highlighted portion of the table was copied from the NESC Rule 234D1b courtesy of IEEE, (National Electrical
Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved. The highlighted portion was added
to account for voltage and/or elevation adders for applicable voltages. These adders were calculated based on the NESC
Rule 234G1 and 234G2 (2017).
2. Guarding trolley-contact conductors located under bridges
a. Where guarding is required
Guarding is required where the trolley-contact conductor is located so that a trolley pole leaving the conductor can
make simultaneous contact between it and the bridge structure.
b. Nature of guarding
Guarding shall consist of a substantial inverted trough of nonconducting material located above the contact
conductor, or of other suitable means of limiting the likelihood of contact between the trolley support and the
bridge structure.

Page 19 of 34
1 8 Ap r 1 7
1 8 Ap r 1 7
Table 8—(Expanded NESC Table 234-2) Clearance of wires, conductors, cables, and unguarded rigid live parts from bridges
See the definitions section for voltages of other systems. Clearances are with NO WIND displacement except where stated in the footnotes below. See Rules 234A, 234D1a, and 234H4.) Table revisions are in green and italicized.
Unguarded rigid live Open Supply Conductors

parts, Elevation Range: Sea Level to 3300 ft†
0 to 750 V; non-
insulated Unguarded rigid
communication con- live parts, over

ductors; supply cables Supply cables Open 750 V to 22 kV,
of 0 to 750 V meeting over 750 V meeting supply ungrounded equipment


Rule 230C2 or Rule 230C2 or conductors, cases, 750 V to 22 kV;
230C3⑦ , ungrounded 230C3⑦ ; open sup- over ungrounded portions of guys
equipment cases, ply conductors, 0 to 750 V to meeting Rules 215C2 and
0 to 750 V; ungrounded 750 V⑩ 22 kV 279A1 exposed to open sup-
portions of guys meet- (ft.) (ft.) ply conductors of over
ing Rules 215C2 and 750 V to 22 kV④ ⑪
279A1 exposed to open (ft.)
supply conductors over
300 V to750 V④ ⑪
(ft.)
1. Clearance over bridges①

a. Attached ③ 3.0 3.5 5.5 5.0 5.7 6.2 7.1 7.6 8.1 9.5 11.8 15.4
b. Not attached 10.0 10.5 12.5 12.0 12.7 13.2 14.1 14.6 15.0 16.4 18.8 22.4
2. Clearance beside, under, or within bridge
structure⑥
a. Readily accessible portions of any bridge including wing, walls, and bridge attachments①
(1) Attached ③ 3.0 3.5⑧ 5.5⑨ 5.0 5.7 6.2 7.1 7.6 8.0 9.4 11.8 15.4
(2) Not attached 5.0 5.5⑧ 7.5⑨ 7.0 7.7 8.2 9.1 9.6 10.0 11.4 13.8 17.4
b. Ordinarily inaccessible portions of bridges (other than brick, concrete, or masonry) and from abutments②
(1) Attached ③ ⑤ 3.0 3.5⑧ 5.5⑨ 5.0 5.7 6.2 7.1 7.6 8.0 9.4 11.8 15.4
(2) Not attached ④ ⑤ 4.0 4.5⑧ 6.5⑨ 6.0 6.7 7.2 8.1 8.6 9.0 10.4 12.8 16.4
† Unhighlighted columns courtesy of IEEE, (National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved. The highlighted columns are not in the
NESC Table 234-2 (2017). They were added to indicate minimum clearance requirements for voltages above 22 kV line to ground, and the values were calculated based on the NESC Rule 234G1
(2017). Values are rounded up to the nearest tenth of a foot.

Page 20 of 34
Table 9—Clearance of wires, conductors, cables, and unguarded rigid live parts from bridges for voltages exceeding 50 kV line to ground and at
elevations exceeding 3300 feet.†


Open supply



conductors,
over 750 V
to 22 kV
(ft.)
1. Clearance over bridges①

a. Attached ③ 5.5 7.3 7.8 8.4 9.9 12.4 16.3 7.4 8.0 8.6 10.3 13.0 17.2 7.6 8.2 8.9 10.6 13.6 18.1
b. Not attached 12.5 14.3 14.8 15.4 16.9 19.4 23.3 14.4 15.0 15.6 17.3 20.0 24.2 14.6 15.2 15.9 17.6 20.6 25.1
2. Clearance beside, under, or within bridge
structure⑥
a. Readily accessible portions of any bridge including
wing, walls, and bridge attachments①
(1) Attached ③ 5.5⑨ 7.3 7.8 8.4 9.9 12.4 16.3 7.4 8.0 8.6 10.3 13.0 17.2 7.6 8.2 8.9 10.6 13.6 18.1
(2) Not attached 7.5⑨ 9.3 9.8 10.4 11.9 14.4 18.3 9.4 10.0 10.6 12.3 15.0 19.2 9.6 10.2 10.9 12.6 15.6 20.1
b. Ordinarily inaccessible portions of bridges (other
than brick, concrete, or masonry) and from
abutments②
(1) Attached ③ ⑤ 5.5⑨ 7.2 7.8 8.4 9.9 12.4 16.3 7.4 8.0 8.6 10.3 13.0 17.2 7.6 8.2 8.7 10.6 13.6 18.1
(2) Not attached ④ ⑤ 6.5⑨ 8.3 8.8 9.4 10.9 13.4 17.3 8.4 9.0 9.6 11.3 14.0 18.2 8.6 9.2 9.9 11.6 14.6 19.1
† Unhighlighted columns courtesy of IEEE, (National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC® ) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved. The highlighted columns are not in the
NESC Table 234-2 (2017). This table was created to indicate minimum clearance requirements for voltages above 50 kV line to ground and at elevations exceeding 3300 feet above sea level. The
values were calculated based on the NESC Rule 234G1 and 234G2 (2017) and rounded up to the nearest tenth of a foot.

Page 21 of 34
1 8 Ap r 1 7
1 8 Ap r1 7
NOTE: The following notes appear courtesy IEEE, (National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited
Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved.
① Where over traveled ways on or near bridges, the clearances of Rule 232 apply also.
② Bridge seats of steel bridges carried on masonry, brick, or concrete abutments that require frequent access for inspec-
tion shall be considered as readily accessible portions.
③ Clearance from supply conductors to supporting arms and brackets attached to bridges shall be the same as specified
in Table 235-6 (Rule 235E1) if the supporting arms and brackets are owned, operated, or maintained by the same utility.
④ The portion(s) of span guys between guy insulators and the portion(s) of anchor guys above guy insulators that are
not effectively grounded shall have clearances based on the highest voltage to which they may be exposed due to a slack
conductor or guy.
⑤ Where conductors passing under bridges are adequately guarded against contact by unauthorized persons and can be
de-energized and grounded per Rule 444D for maintenance of the bridge, clearances of the conductors from the bridge,
at any point, may have the clearances specified in Table 235-6 for clearance from surfaces of support arms plus one-
half the final sag at 15 °C (60 °F), no wind of the conductor at that point.
⑥ Where the bridge has moving parts, such as a lift. bridge, the required clearances shall be maintained throughout the
full range of movement of the bridge or any attachment thereto.
⑦ Where permitted by the bridge owner, supply cables may be run in rigid conduit attached directly to the bridge. Refer
to Part 3 for installation rules.
⑧ The clearance at rest shall be not less than the value shown in this table. Also, when the conductor or cable is dis-
placed by wind, the clearance shall be not less than 3.5 ft.; see Rule 234D1b.
⑨ The clearance at rest shall be not less than the value shown in this table. Also, when the conductor or cable is dis-
placed by wind, the clearance shall be not less than 4.5 ft.; see Rule 234D1b.
⑩ Does not include neutral conductors meeting Rule 230E1.
⑪ These clearance values also apply to guy insulators.

Page 22 of 34
NESC Rule 234E (2017)

Clearance of wires, conductors, cables, or unguarded rigid live parts installed over or near swimming areas with no
wind displacement
1. Swimming pools
Where wires, conductors, cables, or unguarded rigid live parts are over in-ground or permanently installed above-
ground swimming pools or the surrounding area, the clearances in any direction shall be not less than those shown
in Table 234-3 [Table 10 in this document] and illustrated in Figure 3(a) (NESC 234-3(a)), Figure 3(b) (NESC
234-3(b)), and Figure 3(c) (NESC 234-3(c)). Vertical clearances for permanently installed aboveground pools shall
be measured from the highest location where people can stand.
NOTE 1: Permanently installed aboveground pools are ones that are not intended to be moved or routinely dis-
assembled.
NOTE 2: For NESC clearance purposes, spas (including whirlpools, hot-tubs, jacuzzis, or other similar install-
ations not suitable for swimming) are not considered as swimming pools covered by Rule 234E, Table 234-3
[Table 10 in this document]. Note that this rule and table refer to swimming areas and swimming pools. NESC
Table 234-3 clearances allow for use of skimmer and rescue poles.
Spas, etc., not suitable for swimming, are usually installed as part of a building or as a similar installation. Clear-
ances for such installations are found in Table 234-1 [Table 5 in this document]. Vertical clearance should be from
the highest point of the installation upon which people can stand. See row 1, Buildings, in Table 234-1 for install-
ations that are part of buildings, such as a raised spa on an open deck. See row 2, other installations, in Table 234-1
for free-standing installations.
For portable wading pools, see Table 232-1, row 5.
EXCEPTION 1: This rule does not apply to a pool fully enclosed by a solid or screened permanent structure.
EXCEPTION 2: This rule does not apply to communication conductors and cables, effectively grounded surge-pro-
tection wires, neutral conductors meeting Rule 230E1, guys and messengers, supply cables meeting Rule 230C1, and
supply cables of 0 to 750 V meeting Rule 230C2 or 230C3 when these facilities are 3 m. (10 ft.) or more horizontally
from the edge of the pool, diving platform, diving tower, water slide, or other fixed, pool-related structures.
2. Beaches and waterways restricted to swimming
Where rescue poles are used by lifeguards at supervised swimming beaches, the vertical and horizontal clearances
shall be not less than those shown in Table 234-3 [Table 10 in this document]. Where rescue poles are not used, the
clearances shall be as specified in Rule 232.
3. Waterways subject to water skiing
The vertical clearance shall be the same as that specified in Rule 232.

Page 23 of 34
Figure 3a (NESC 234-3a)—Swimming Pool Clearances
Figure 3b (NESC 234-3b)—Aboveground Swimming Pool with Deck
Figure 3c (NESC 234-3c)—Aboveground Swimming Pool without Deck

Page 24 of 34
1 8 Ap r 1 7
1 8 Ap r 1 7
Table 10—(Expanded NESC Table 234-3) Clearance of wires, conductors, cables, or unguarded
rigid live parts over or near swimming pools
See the definitions section for voltages of other systems. Clearances are with NO WIND displacement. Table revisions are in green and italicized.
See Rules 234A, 234E1, 234E2, and 234H4.)
Open Supply Conductors
Insulated com- Unguarded rigid live Elevation Range: Sea Level to 3300 ft.†
munication conductors parts,
and cables; mes- 0 to 750 V; Supply
Unguarded rigid
sengers; overhead noninsulated com- cables over
live parts over

shield/ surge-pro- munication con- 750 V
750 V to 22 kV;
Open sup-
tection wires; groun- ductors; supply cables meeting


ungrounded por- ply con-
ded guys; ungrounded of 0 to 750 V meeting Rule 230C2
tions of guys meet- ductors,
portions of guys meet- Rule 230C2 or 230C3; or 230C3;
ing Rules 215C2 and over 750 V
ing Rules 215C2 and ungrounded portions open sup-
279A1 exposed to to 22 kV
279A1 exposed to 0 to of guys meeting Rules ply con-
over 750 V to 22 (ft.)
300 V② ④ ; neutral con- 215C2 and 279A1 ductors, 0
③ kV① ④
ductors meeting Rule exposed to open sup- to 750 V
(ft.)
230E1; supply cables ply conductors of over (ft.)
meeting Rule 230C1 300 V to 750 V① ④
(ft.) (ft.)
A. Clearance in any direction from

the water level, edge of pool, base
22.0 22.5 23.0 24.5 25.0 25.2 25.7 26.6 27.1 27.6 29.0 31.3 34.9
of diving platform, or anchored
raft
B. Clearance in any direction to the
diving platform, tower, water slide,
14.0 14.5 15.0 16.5 17.0 17.2 17.7 18.6 19.1 19.6 21.0 23.3 26.9
or other fixed, pool-related struc-
tures
V. Vertical clearance over adjacent
Clearance shall be as required by Rule 232. Clearance shall be as required by Rule 232. (See TC 111).
land
† Unhighlighted columns courtesy of IEEE, (National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC® ) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). All rights reserved. The highlighted columns are not in the
NESC Table 234-3 (2017). They were added to indicate minimum clearance requirements for voltages above 22 kV line to ground, and the values were calculated based on the NESC Rule 234G1
(2017). Values are rounded up to the nearest tenth of a foot.

Page 25 of 34
Table 11 —Clearance of wires, conductors, cables, or unguarded rigid live parts over or near swimming pools for voltages exceeding 50 kV line to
ground and at elevations exceeding 3300 feet.†

Open supply




conductors,
over
750 V
to 22 kV
(ft.)
A. Clearance in any direction from the

water level, edge of pool, base of 25.0 26.8 27.3 27.9 29.4 31.9 35.9 26.9 27.5 28.1 29.8 32.5 36.7 27.1 27.7 28.4 30.1 33.1 37.6
diving platform, or anchored raft
B. Clearance in any direction to the
diving platform, tower, water slide, or 17.0 18.8 19.3 19.9 21.4 23.9 27.8 18.9 19.5 20.1 21.8 24.5 27.8 19.1 19.7 20.4 22.1 25.1 29.6
other fixed, pool-related structures
V. Vertical clearance over adjacent
Clearance shall be as required by Rule 232. (See TC 111).
land
† Unhighlighted columns courtesy of IEEE, (National Electrical Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited Standards Committee C2-2017). The highlighted columns are not in the NESC Table 234-3 (2017). All rights reserved. This
table was created to indicate minimum clearance requirements for voltages above 50 kV line to ground and at elevations exceeding 3300 feet above sea level. The values were calculated based on the NESC Rule 234G1 and
234G2 (2017) and rounded up to the nearest tenth of a foot.
NOTE 1: A, B, and V are shown in Figure 3 (NESC 234-3).

NOTE 2: The clearance values shown in this table are computed by adding the applicable Mechanical and Electrical (M & E) value of Table A-1 to the applicable
Reference Component of Table A-2b of Appendix A.
① The portion(s) of span guys between guy insulators and the portion(s) of anchor guys above guy insulators that are not effectively grounded shall have clear-
ances based on the highest voltage to which they may be exposed due to a slack conductor or guy.
② The portion of anchor guys below the lowest insulator meeting Rules 279A1 and 215C2a may have the same clearance as effectively grounded guys.
③ Does not include neutral conductors meeting Rule 230E1.
④ These clearance values also apply to guy insulators.

Page 26 of 34
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1 8 Ap r1 7
NESC Rule 234F (2017)

Clearances of wires, conductors, cables, and rigid live parts from grain bins
1. Grain bins loaded by permanently installed augers, conveyers, or elevator systems
All portions of grain bins that are expected to be loaded by the use of a permanently installed auger, conveyer, or elev-
ator system shall be considered as a building or other installation under Rule 234C for the purpose of determining
appropriate clearances of wires, conductors, cables, and rigid live parts. In addition, the following clearances shall
also apply without wind displacement. See Figure 4 (NESC 234-4a).
a. A clearance of not less than 5.5 m. (18 ft.) in all directions above the grain bin shall be maintained from each
probe port in the grain bin roof for all wires, conductors, and cables.
b. A horizontal clearance of not less than 4.6 m. (15 ft.) shall be maintained between grain bins and open supply
conductors, 0 to 22 kV. This clearance does not apply to a neutral conductor meeting Rule 230E1.
2. Grain bins loaded by portable augers, conveyers, or elevators (with no wind displacement)
a. The clearance of wires, conductors, cables, and rigid live parts from grain bins that are expected to be loaded by
the use of a portable auger, conveyer, or elevator shall be not less than the values illustrated in Figure 5 (NESC
234-4b).
EXCEPTION: Clearances of the following items on the nonloading side of grain bins shall be not less than
those required by Rule 234C for clearances from buildings:
(a) Support arms; effectively grounded equipment cases

(b) Insulated communication conductors and cables, messengers, surge-protection wires, effectively
grounded guys, neutral conductors meeting Rule 230E1, and supply cables meeting Rule 230C1
(c) Supply cables of 0 to 750 V meeting Rule 230C2 or 230C3
b. Any side of a grain bin is considered to be a nonloading side if it is so designated, or if it is so closely abutting
another structure or obstruction, or so close to a public road or other right-of-way that a portable auger, con-
veyor, or elevator is not reasonably anticipated to be used over that side or portion to fill the grain bin.
c. Where an agreement excludes the use of portable augers, conveyors, or elevators from a designated portion of a
grain bin, such portion is considered to be a nonloading side.

Page 27 of 34
Figure 4 (NESC 234-4a)—Clearance envelope for grain bins filled by permanently installed
augers, conveyors, or elevators
Legend
P = probe clearance 5.5 m. (18 ft.) required by Rule 234F1a
H = horizontal clearance 4.6 m. (15 ft.) required by Rule 234F1b
T = transition clearance
V1 = vertical clearance above a building required by Rule 234C (Table 234-1)
V2 = vertical clearance required by Rule 232B (Table 232-1 or 232-2)

Page 28 of 34
Figure 5 (NESC 234-4b)—Clearance envelope for grain bins filled by portable augers,
conveyors, or elevators

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1 8 Ap r 1 7
1 8 Ap r 1 7
Table 12—Clearances of wires, conductors, cables, and rigid live parts from grain bins†
Open Supply Conductors Elevation Range: Sea Level to 3300 ft.



Open supply
All wires,
conductors,
conductors,
0 V to
and cables
22 kV‡
(ft.)
(ft.)
NESC Rule 234F1a (2017) 18.0 18.2 18.7 19.6 20.1 20.6 22.0 24.3 27.9
NESC Rule 234F1b (2017) 15.0 15.2 15.7 16.6 17.1 17.6 22.0 21.3 24.9
† The NESC (2017) does not provide this table. This table was created to indicate minimum clearance requirements for voltages above 22 kV line to ground. The base values were taken from the
NESC Rule 234F1 (2017), and calculated values were derived based on the NESC Rule 234G1 (2017) and rounded up to the nearest tenth of a foot.
‡ Does not apply to a neutral conductor meeting Rule 230E1.

Page 30 of 34
Table 13—Clearances of wires, conductors, cables, and rigid live parts from grain bins for voltages exceeding 50 kV line to
ground and at elevations exceeding 3300 feet.†
Open Supply Conductors Elevation Range: Open Supply Conductors Elevation Range: Open Supply Conductors Elevation Range:
3301 to 6300 ft. 6301 to 9300 ft. 9301 to 12300 ft.


Open supply



All wires,
conductors, 0
conductors, and
V to
cables
22 kV‡
(ft.)
(ft.)
NESC Rule 234F1a

18.0 19.8 20.3 20.9 22.4 24.9 28.8 19.9 20.5 21.1 22.8 25.5 29.7 20.1 20.7 21.4 23.1 26.1 30.6
(2017)
NESC Rule 234F1b
15.0 16.8 17.3 17.9 19.4 21.9 25.8 16.9 17.5 18.1 19.8 22.5 26.7 17.1 17.7 18.4 20.1 23.1 27.6
(2017)
† The NESC (2017) does not provide this table. This table was created to indicate minimum clearance requirements for voltages above 50 kV line to ground and at elevations exceeding 3300 feet
above sea level. The base values were taken from the NESC Rule 234F1 (2017), and calculated values were derived based on the NESC Rule 234G1 and 234G2 (2017) and rounded up to the
nearest tenth of a foot.
‡ Does not apply to a neutral conductor meeting Rule 230E1.

Page 31 of 34
1 8 Ap r 1 7
1 8 Ap r1 7
NESC Rule 234I (2017)

Clearances of wires, conductors, and cables to rail cars
Where overhead wires, conductors, or cables run along railroad tracks, the clearance in any direction shall be not less
than that shown in Figure 234-5. The values of V and H are as defined as follows:
V = vertical clearance from the wire, conductor, or cable above the top of the rail as specified in Rule 232 minus 6.1
m. (20 ft.), the assumed height of the rail car
H = horizontal clearance from the wire, conductor, or cable to the nearest rail, which is equal to the required vertical
clearance above the rail minus 4.6 m. (15 ft.) as computed by the lesser of the following:
1. Rules 232B1 and 232C1
2. Rule 232D
These clearances are computed for railroads handling standard rail cars as common carriers in interchange service
with other railroads. Where wires, conductors, or cables run along mine, logging, and similar railways that handle
only cars smaller than standard freight cars, the value of H may be reduced by one-half the difference between the
width of a standard rail car [3.3 m. (10 ft., 8 in.)] and the width of the narrower car.
Figure 6 (NESC 234-5) —Rail Car Clearances

NESC Rule 234J (2017)
Clearance of equipment mounted on supporting structures
1. Clearance to unguarded rigid live parts of equipment

Page 32 of 34
The horizontal and vertical clearances of unguarded rigid live parts such as potheads, transformer bushings, surge
arresters, and short lengths of supply conductors connected thereto, which are not subject to variation in sag, shall
be not less than those required by Rule 234C or 234D, as applicable.
2. Clearance to equipment cases
Equipment shall be mounted so that clearances are not less than that given by Rules 234J2a, 234J2b, and 234J2c.
a. Effectively grounded equipment cases may be located on or adjacent to buildings, bridges, or other structures
provided that clearances for unguarded rigid live parts of such equipment, as specified in Rule 234J1, are
maintained.
b. Equipment cases that are not effectively grounded shall be located so that the clearances of Rule 234C or
234D, as applicable, are maintained.
c. Equipment cases shall be located so as not to serve as a means of approach to unguarded rigid live parts by
unqualified persons.
NOTE: Rule 234J is not subject to the loading conditions of Rule 234A.

Page 33 of 34
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Page 34 of 34
Printed versions of this standard may be out of date. Please consult the online standards for the most recent version. This standard shall be used and duplicated
only in support of PacifiCorp projects. ©2017 by PacifiCorp.

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TC 151 Clearances of Wires, Conductors, Cables, and Equipment from

Buildings, Bridges, and Other Installations

Transmission Construction Standard

NESC Rule 234A (2017)

Transmission Construction Standard

2. Horizontal clearances (with wind displacement)

Figure 1—Clearance Diagram for Buildings and Other Structures

Transmission Construction Standard

Figure 2—Transitional Clearance when H is Greater than V

Transmission Construction Standard

Table 2—Horizontal Clearance of Conductors from Other Supporting Structures WITH

① Does not include neutral conductors meeting Rule 230E1.

Transmission Construction Standard

Table 3—Vertical Clearance of Conductors from Other Supporting Structures‡

† EXCEPTIONS 1 and 2 shall not be applied cumulatively.

Transmission Construction Standard

NESC Rule 234C (2017)

Transmission Construction Standard

① Does not include neutral conductors meeting Rule 230E1.

Transmission Construction Standard

2.Guarding of supply conductors and rigid live parts

Transmission Construction Standard

(a) 900 mm. (3 ft.)

NOTE 1: See Figure 234-2.

(2) Not less than 900 mm (3 ft) in any direction from windows.

Transmission Construction Standard

NESC Rule 234G (2017)

Transmission Construction Standard

Examples (not from the NESC)

Example 1 Line voltage line-to-line: 12.47 kV

Example 2: Line voltage line-to-line: 138 kV

Minimum required clearance

Transmission Construction Standard

140 kV to 210 kV phase-to-ground

210 kV to 318 kV phase-to-ground

345 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

500 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

161 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

Transmission Construction Standard

140 kV to 210 kV phase-to-ground

210 kV to 318 kV phase-to-ground

345 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

500 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

161 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

Transmission Construction Standard

140 kV to 210 kV phase-to-ground

210 kV to 318 kV phase-to-ground

140 kV to 210 kV phase-to-ground

210 kV to 318 kV phase-to-ground

140 kV to 210 kV phase-to-ground

210 kV to 318 kV phase-to-ground

500 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

345 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

500 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

345 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

500 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

230 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)

230 kV phase-to-phase (Ft.)