Minimum Cover Depth of PVC Raceway

April 11, 2014
The minimum cover depth for underground wiring placed below pools, spas, and hot tubs shall be as noted in Table 680.10 of the 2011 NEC.

Complete raceway systems of underground PVC can be located less than 5 ft from the inside wall of a pool when space limitations are encountered and shall be buried not less than _____ with at least 4 in. of concrete cover.

a) 6 inches
b) 10 inches
c) 12 inches
d) 18 inches

See answer and applicable Code reference

The correct answer is: a) 6 inches

The installation requirements for swimming pools, fountains, tubs, and spas are listed in Art. 680 of the 2011 NEC. As noted in a portion of 680.10, the minimum cover depth for underground wiring shall be as noted in Table 680.10. As noted in this table, where nonmetallic raceway is placed under a minimum thickness of 4 inches of concrete, the cover depth shall be at least 6 inches.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.

8 Types of Electrical Conduit and Their Uses

Electrical conduit is a tube or raceway used to house and protect electrical wires within a building or structure. From data centers to underground subways to ports and bridges...

Champion Strut Catalog

Champion Fiberglass is the most advanced manufacturing facility of fiberglass conduit, fiberglass bridge drain and fiberglass strut systems in the world. Its well-trained and ...

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...