Minimum Cover Depth of PVC Raceway

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.

April 11, 2014

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.