ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues Parking lot lights - underground run

I have a bias in favor of christie boxes being place next to the poles for the following reasons:

1) There is seldom enough room in the light pole, or the pathetic little handhole in the pole, to work with the larger wires often used for these long runs;

2) Running wires directly to the poles greatly complicates replacement of a pole that has been damaged. With a box, at least, you can isolate the one pole easily, and remove the exposed wires;

3) Poles are getting crowded, with other cables ... speakers, cameras, convenience receptacles, etc.; and,

4) having the wires in the poles greatly complicates future replacement pulls of wire.

This still leaves room for some future re-paving job to cover up the boxes, but you can't idiot proof everything (they keep coming out with better idiots )

Reno I agree with your approach with one exception:
Usually they can't install these types of cables in poles without violating the NEC. The receptacles ok, but other cables probably violate sections in chapter 7 and 8 of the code that don't allow power and non-power cables in the same raceway and the light pole is now considered to be a raceway.

[This message has been edited by George Little (edited 02-10-2007).]

George, I wasn't saying it was right , just acknowledging reality.

I should also point out that I was not saying that code mandated my method in any way. I just wanted to show that "code minimum" might not be very wise in this instance.

Okay Reno. Hope your not offended because I always enjoy your input.

No offense at all George. I also appreciate your take on things .... even when I cheat!

Is the pole a raceway, though, or is it considered a listed fixture?

Steve- Look at 410.15(B).

Steve, there is some debate on that point. UL's answer depends, in part, on the length of the pole.

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( but other cables probably violate sections in chapter 7 and 8 of the code that don't allow power and non-power cables in the same raceway and the light pole is now considered to be a raceway.)
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You could run different cables in the same raceway if the insulation voltage rating on it was high enough, correct?

Cable jackets are separation. If you were snaking power in a pole with other circuits you could use something like MC in that segment of the pole.