ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues Generator disconnect

Does generator supply entering bldg. underground require a disconnect in bldg? Gen. is 80 feet from bldg.Gen. load 200kva at 208v.

Hi lousen!~
good Q
445.18 requires a disco for a genny, but does not specify where...
225-32, general rule , requires a disco. ex#1 could be applied.
If i'm reading this right (part 2 of 225) it matters if the genny serves the outbuilding or not.
others may clarify this better than I

As a general rule yes. See 225-31. As Sparky stated Ex #1 in 225-32 could be applied but this would have to be acceptable to the AHJ. I don’t believe many would be inclined to accept this.

Lousen,
can you give us more info here? what is the genny used for? etc..

Gen.set mentioned before supplys single owner nursing home.If I open main service disconnect in basement in a fire emergency, Gen. set kicks in.which means power is back on. Nearest disconnect is at Gen. set-80 feet away.This installation is completed but not inspected.

The answer is yes you do need a disconnect within sight. Check out 700.12(B)(6) in the 2002 NEC.