Circuits run to a post or non-structure

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JoeNorm

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I am aware that if you want run more than one circuit to an outbuilding you most likely will need to install a sub panel with ground rods according to NEC.

But what about to a non-structure, say a post outside. For instance if a customer wanted two EV chargers and a 120v receptacle on a post in their driveway would it be compliant to run all three circuits separately to the equipment? Or would a sub panel be needed? Practicality aside.

Thanks
 
Are you concerned about driving ground rods, or just simply adding a subpanel for disconnect means?
 
On one hand... some folks consider a post to be a structure (I generally don't). IMHO, the definition of structure is, um, problematic.

On another hand, there's nothing to stop anyone from putting in two posts a couple inches apart and running a single branch circuit to each, could even put all the conductors in the same trench.

On a third hand, I don't think anything would prevent you from running multiple branch circuits to a single post with a single receptacle each if the post isn't a "structure".

There's an exception in 225.30(A)(7) but I don't think that applies but the one in (D) might "Additional feeders or branch
circuits shall be permitted for different voltages, frequencies, or phases, or for different uses such as control of outside lighting from multiple locations.".

If I was dealing with a persnickety AHJ, I'd probably do two posts, one with just a 240v charger recept. and the other with that and a 120v convenience outlet, the latter relying on both different voltages and different uses from above.
 
They tried to come up with a better definition of "structure" in the 2017 NEC by adding the words "..... other than equipment". IMO this is still unclear, as there is essentially no equipment that is completely standalone without a base, pad, post, etc. They should have said something like "other than equipment and it's support structure or base"
 
Quite a difference, unfortunately the whole thing quickly becomes "I know it when I see it" and that never ends well.

Without checking the book- AFAIK a "light pole" can have multiple branch circuits feeding it without it having overcurrent devices or a GES (e.g. lighting circuit + a couple of 20a recepticles in the base), why couldn't a pole without a light? Does the presence of the light make that much difference? Could the light be 3' off the ground and it still be a light pole?
 
JoeNorm said:
I am concerned about what is code compliant in this situation.
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Here's my take: You want to supply three loads with independent circuits, but asked us to ignore practicality.

I can see running individual circuits in one conduit and splitting them on a post or pole without electrodes.
 
I agree with the lighting-pole comparison. I personally would probably use a sub-panel and a GES.

zbang said:
Could the light be 3' off the ground and it still be a light pole?
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It would have to be very light to be three feet off the ground. :sneaky:
 
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