What is the minimum clearance above final grade for service-drop conductors over residential properties and driveways?

The minimum clearance above final grade for service-drop conductors over residential properties and driveways is indeed 12 feet. This requirement is designed to ensure safety and prevent accidental contact with the conductors. Keeping this clearance helps to reduce the risk of electrical hazards, such as electrocution or electrical fires, particularly in areas where people and vehicles frequently pass underneath.

In residential scenarios, where trees and equipment may be present, the 12-foot clearance helps maintain a buffer that accommodates both the static height of typical vehicles, as well as any potential movement of tall objects like ladders or recreational vehicles. This regulation reflects a careful balance between accessibility for utility service and critical safety standards that protect the public from electrical hazards.

Alternatives, such as higher clearances, may apply in certain contexts or specific regulations, but 12 feet is the standard safety measure in most residential settings as established by the National Electrical Code (NEC) and enforced by local authorities to ensure consistent safety practices.