I really can't think of anything in the NEC that requires a motor terminal housing to have any particular clearance. I don't think that 110-26(a) working space requirements apply. If they did, at least 1/2 of all motors I see would be in violation.
The only location requirement that I am aware of is spelled out in 430-14 & there is no mention of the motor terminal housing.
Tom
Few things are harder to put up with than the annoyance of a good example.
