Code Q&A

Q. Can service drop conductors be supported by trees?

A. It all depends on who installed the conductors. If the installation is under the exclusive control of the utility, then this isn’t a violation of the NEC. However, it might be a violation of the National Electric Safety Code.

If the service conductors aren’t under the exclusive control of the utility, then the installation violates 230.10. In addition, trees or other vegetation can’t be used for the support of overhead conductor spans of branch circuits and feeders [225.26], including temporary installations [590.4(J)].

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