Hope for response in other areas. When rewiring older homes are panels allowed to be put back in their original locations with a washer or dryer in front of the panel? Or in other locations like stairways or rooms with less than 36in. of clearance in front of the panel? Thanks for any response in other areas. Boomer

My experience in suburban Phila., PA has been that locations that are now in violation (even closets) are grandfathered, and allowed to remain. It would usually be a much more expensive project for the homeowner, otherwise.

All inspectors here require the panel to be moved to a conforming location if the old, non conforming panel is replaced. Circuits may be added to a non conforming panel provided there is sufficient space but if the service needs to be upgraded, or the point of entry of the service feeder is changed, the entire service (including replacement of 2 conductor to 3 conductor cable) must meet current code.

I almost always find a new place for the new panel; new panels rarely fit in the same place as the old panel.

Here in Long Island if a panel is in a closet we either have to move it or make the closet into two closets. 1 a clothes closet and one for the panel. Must keep the 3 foot rule in front of live parts.

Here in NJ I would love for you to find a new spot for the panel, however under NJ rehab code the panel can go back in the same place. I tell people to think of themselves when installing things. You might be the one who has to work on the panel/box the next time. Try to make it easier for maintenece on the next person.