What is the required vertical clearance of service drops above the lowest level to the drip loop?

The required vertical clearance for service drops above the lowest level to the drip loop is 10 feet. This requirement is set to ensure safety and accessibility in residential areas, particularly where it pertains to areas that people frequently use, such as walkways, driveways, and patios.

Maintaining this clearance helps prevent accidental contact with the service drops, which could pose electrical hazards. The standard for 10 feet allows for enough space while not being excessively high, which could complicate installation and maintenance of the electrical service.

On a practical level, this clearance ensures that service drops remain safely out of reach of most objects and activities occurring at ground level, like vehicles and people. It is also designed to withstand environmental impacts, reducing the risk of damage from weather events or physical disturbances.