Community Forums

H. Miller · 01-31-2015, 08:13 AM

How high off the GROUND must a 50 amp outlet box be placed? We're talking about non-metallic waterproof box with wire in "matching" conduit mounted to side of house (not free standing).

Texbeachbum · 01-31-2015, 08:19 AM

I think its 5 ft

bdickson · 01-31-2015, 08:35 AM

Sounds like a building code question for your county permits office. I imagine the regulation could differ around the country.

wa8yxm · 01-31-2015, 08:38 AM

Well I see them in parks (Metallic) as close as a few inches ground to bottom,, I'd like the box at around 3-5 feet, well above the high water line should go into flood status.

True story,, music director at my old parish had a flood, about six inches of water in his back yard,, GFCI outlets (like 3 of them) in back yard are all like half an inch above the ground, naturally they tripped.

Grey Ghost I · 01-31-2015, 09:48 AM

High enough to prevent damage from mowers, toys, dogs etc.

mwwade · 01-31-2015, 10:02 AM

High enough you don't have to stoop over to plug it in!

vsheetz · 01-31-2015, 10:30 AM

If you are wanting to ensure code compliance, then best to ask your building department. However they may not specify a height.

Mine is at about 4'.

mbrandt1402 · 01-31-2015, 10:36 AM

We just had a shop built in Pend Oreille County, WA. 50 amp service for the RV is about 42" off the floor, but that is on the inside wall.

Fl_Richard · 02-03-2015, 02:53 PM

There is no code stating how high a 50Amp plug MUST be mounted. For a indoor range it's inches off the floor. If it has a disconnect or circuit breaker panel it must be "readily accessible" that means no ladder needed or dis-assembly required to access it.

So put it where most convenient. I have mine at 50" to the top.

I recommend not contacting the building department as they will assume your doing work without a license or hiring a licensed contractor who will know there is no code stating height.

H. Miller · 02-04-2015, 04:58 AM

Thanks Folks

cwit · 02-04-2015, 06:16 AM

I put it high enough so snow shouldn't cover it in winter time.

Ray,IN · 02-04-2015, 07:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bdickson

Sounds like a building code question for your county permits office. I imagine the regulation could differ around the country.

Exactly! I just replaced a 100A trailer drop, our county code said 4' min>4.5' max., and mounted below the meter-base.

OLYLEN · 02-05-2015, 07:43 AM

Mine installed four years ago when house was built, part of the contract, is about 18" above walk. I assume it is to code and in Washington State.

LEN

sailwing2003 · 02-05-2015, 08:30 AM

More important is that the box is wired for RV use, and that confuses many. Then the way the female receiver is put into the box, so the cord end can hang down correctly. Have seen both done wrong, by a licensed electrician. We arrived to find him working to get a 30 and 50 amp plug set up for the weekend visit.