Height of Working Space

[mwm1752]

NEC 2011 added which is still in effect NEC 2020
110.26(A)(3) Exception No. 1: In existing dwelling units, service equipment or panelboards that do not exceed 200 amperes shall be permitted in spaces where the height of the working space is less than 2.0 m (61⁄2 ft)

Does NFPA reference the existing dwelling having an existing panel installation that does not require ready access during a remodel or does it reference an existing dwelling having an additional new panel board(s) in a location under 6'6".
If the latter I believe the only limitation to height might be interpreted in the definition of readily accessible

 

[infinity]

I see nothing in the wording of that section that would prohibit a new 200 amp or less panel in a space with less than 6.5' of working space.

 

[mwm1752]

I see nothing in the wording of that section that would prohibit a new 200 amp or less panel in a space with less than 6.5' of working space.

so you appear to support the NFPA was meaning existing dwelling having an additional new panel board(s) in a location under 6'6" is compliant with NEC. Where would you draw the line for ceiling height? & why?

 

[infinity]

so you appear to support the NFPA was meaning existing dwelling having an additional new panel board(s) in a location under 6'6" is compliant with NEC. Where would you draw the line for ceiling height? & why?

I'm only commenting on the specific wording in the section quoted in the OP which would permit the panel in a location less than 6'6".

Do you see it written to say otherwise?

 

[mwm1752]

I'm only commenting on the specific wording in the section quoted in the OP which would permit the panel in a location less than 6'6".

Do you see it written to say otherwise?

My question does have 2 points due to the fact that panels have been required to have min 6'6" since 1993 NEC and no explanation was given to the exception in ROC's or ROP.'s. The only defining wording is existing dwellings. So if new installations were the meaning why not comment on it? I can understand existing building prior to 6'6" rules not requiring the panel move in a remodel if not a life safety issue. I saw your comment & asked for an opinion.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

If the dwelling unit is existing, not being newly constructed, at the time you are installing an additional or replacement panel the exception applies.
If the dwelling unit is being constructed at the time of the panel installation, the exception does not apply.

 

[infinity]

If the dwelling unit is existing, not being newly constructed, at the time you are installing an additional or replacement panel the exception applies.
If the dwelling unit is being constructed at the time of the panel installation, the exception does not apply.

I agree. That's what I was trying to say.

 

[mwm1752]

Faif nuff - I'll install in a 4' crawlspace