June 2014

Electric
Service
Handbook

SingleFamily Residential Projects

Permanent & Temporary Service

E 2014 by Puget Sound Energy

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by
any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or
information storage and retrieval system, without permission from Puget Sound Energy (PSE).

Puget Sound Energy

Standards Department
P.O. Box 97034 EST-07W
Bellevue, WA 98009-9734
1-888-225-5773

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents
Preface
What this handbook contains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PSEs service availability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Glossary of terms used in this handbook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Codes, permits, and inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical service equipment inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reconnecting existing electric service after repair or replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

vii
vii
vii
vii
viii
viii

Scheduling/Timelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . viii
Underground or overhead service? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . viii
Which type of electrical system is available in your area? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . viii
Underground service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix
Overhead service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix
Questions or assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix
Other electric service information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
x
How to contact Puget Sound Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PSEs service providers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Overview: New Permanent and Temporary Electric Service Hookup

to Existing PSE Power Facilities for Single-Family Residential Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xi

Chapter 1: Steps to a Successful Permanent Electric Service Installation

for Single-Family Residences
Definitions

...................................................................

Service installation responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Puget Sound Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting the installation process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting up an account or to order a new service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Will your project need engineering? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Choosing the right service size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service voltages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service sizes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sizes less than 200 A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Determining an approved meter location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer-installed meter base/socket location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Know whats below: Call 811 before you dig . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1
1
1
2
2
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
4

Coordinating utility trenching and construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Continued on next page

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Transformer locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liquefied propane tanks: clearances from ignition source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Outbuildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service line installation responsibilities for outbuildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost for service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9
9
10

Power quality, voltage flicker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10

Chapter 2: Permanent Underground Service

Steps to a successful underground service installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11

Selecting a meter base/socket location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Multiple metered services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service line trenches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trench and backfill requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer-installed service line conduit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer-installed service line conduit installation requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Continuous and discontinuous conduit systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
When to choose continuous conduit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
When to choose discontinuous conduit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service entrance equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service entrance conduit size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Permanent underground service for manufactured homes, 0200 A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service equipment installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Meter base/socket requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote metering (meter loop) for underground residential services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What is remote metering? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Requirements for residential remote metering, 200 A or less . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
400 A and larger panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote services greater than 800 A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Meter post and pedestal locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

12
12
12
12
12
13
13
14
15
16
16
16
19
19
19
20
20
20
21
21
21

Chapter 3: Permanent Overhead Service

Steps to a successful overhead service installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

23

Selecting a meter base/socket location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

24

Clearance requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service line ground clearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minimum clearances from structures, building openings, and gas meters . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intermediate service pole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service mast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service mast requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Height requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additional mast supports (guy or brace) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Screw-in service knobs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service entrance equipment installation requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

24
24
25
26
26
26
26
29
29
29

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Manufactured homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Meter base/socket installation requirements for manufactured homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer-owned meter pole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Meter pole requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

30
30
30
30
30

Chapter 4: Primary Line Extensions

Customer responsibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

33

Inspection/Coordination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

33

Site preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

33

Customer-provided trench . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trench width . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trench excavating requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trench and backfill requirements for primary electric line extension trenches (no gas) . .
Trench and backfill requirements for primary electric line extension trenches (with gas) .
Vaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vault excavation procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vault location and access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vault backfill material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Continuous conduit systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

34
34
35
35
36
36
36
38
38
39

Customer-supplied conduits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

39

Terminating conduit at transformer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

39

Chapter 5: Meter Installation

Service rating options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

41

Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Puget Sound Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Meter bases/sockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Meter base/socket location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Grounding requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clearance requirements for meter installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

41
41
41
41
41
42
42
42

200 A services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Single-family residential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overhead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outbuildings (overhead or underground service) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
400 A services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overhead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outbuildings (overhead or underground service) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
400 A current transformer (CT) services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

44
44
44
44
44
46
46
47
47
48

Services over 400 A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

49

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

iii

iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 6: Temporary Services

What this chapter contains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

51

Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

51

Obtaining your temporary service from existing power facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

51

Scheduling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

52

Customer charge for service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

52

Temporary meter base/socket requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

52

Temporary underground services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Meter location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trenching and excavation requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underground temporary service installation process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Temporary overhead services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Meter location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service line path requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clearance requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overhead temporary service installation process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

52
52
53
54
56
56
56
56
57

Chapter 7: Disconnection and Modification of Service

Disconnection of your meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

59

Modified services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

59

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

61

List of Tables
Table 1
Table 2
Table 3
Table 4
Table 5
Table 6
Table 7
Table 8

Types of electric services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Standard voltages for residential customers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service sizes available from PSE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Color codes for locating utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clearances for padmount transformers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service line installation responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current transformer (CT) enclosure dimensions (minimum) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Example of overhead and underground modified service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

x
3
3
4
5
9
49
60

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

List of Figures
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
Figure 4
Figure 5
Figure 6
Figure 7
Figure 8
Figure 9
Figure 10
Figure 11
Figure 12
Figure 13
Figure 14
Figure 15
Figure 16
Figure 17
Figure 18
Figure 19
Figure 20
Figure 21
Figure 22
Figure 23
Figure 24
Figure 25
Figure 26
Figure 27
Figure 28
Figure 29
Figure 30
Figure 31
Figure 32
Figure 33
Figure 34
Figure 35

Underground facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overhead facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clearances for transformers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clearances for transformers from structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minimum clearances from oil-filled equipment to LP, hazardous liquid, or fuel tanks .
Minimum clearances from LP storage tanks to sources of ignition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Typical underground service from overhead power facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Example of continuous conduit in underground electric service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Example of discontinuous conduit in underground electric service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Two types of meter bases/sockets for permanent underground service . . . . . . . . . . . . .
401800 A service entrance equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Permanent underground service for manufactured homes, 0200 A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote metering for underground residential services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Typical overhead service installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minimum overhead service line vertical clearances from ground level . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minimum clearances over other structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intermediate service pole location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unguyed service masts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Guyed service masts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Permanent overhead meter pole installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Typical joint utility trench with primary voltage cable on your private property . . . . . .
Padmount transformer vault excavation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aboveground junction box vault excavation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Location of customer conduit in PSE vaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Meter base/socket minimum clearances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recessed meter installation clearances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Residential meter socket wiring diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Typical arrangement of service conductors for underground class 320
meter base/socket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Typical arrangement of service conductors for overhead class 320 meter base/socket .
Instrument-rated (CT) meter bases/sockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Single-phase CT mounting base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trenching requirements for power stubout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Temporary underground service installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minimum clearance requirements upon installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Temporary overhead service installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Back pocket
Joint Utility Mainline Trench Excavation Requirements handout
Electric Underground Service Installation Requirements handout
ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

ix
ix
6
7
8
9
11
14
15
17
18
20
21
24
25
25
26
27
28
31
34
37
37
38
43
43
45
46
47
48
49
53
55
57
58

vi

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PREFACE

vii

Preface
This handbook is your guide to Puget Sound Energys (PSE) requirements for new,
altered/modified, or temporary electric service for permanent single-family residential
structures. We have also included additional requirements for electric service to
outbuildings (barns, shops, pump houses, garages, etc.).

What this handbook contains

In this handbook you will find answers to questions such as:
H What are the installation requirements for permanent and temporary underground and
overhead service?
H How do I choose the right service size?
H What are the trenching requirements?
H How do I locate existing underground utilities before I dig?
PSEs service availability

General boundaries for PSEs gas and electric service area are available on
PSE.com\customerconstruction. A Customer Construction Services (CCS)
Representative can help you to determine the closest available service line and can
provide you with cost information for establishing new service.
Glossary of terms used in this handbook

For your convenience, glossary words appear in bold italics throughout the text the first
time they appear (e.g., meter pole).

Codes, permits, and inspections

This handbook should only be used as a guide. It does not cover all possible federal,
state, or local code requirements. It is your responsibility to ensure that your project
complies with the most recent issue of the National Electric Code (NEC) and any other
federal, state, or local codes that may apply.
This handbook shall not be interpreted to conflict with the regulations of the state of
Washington or other regulatory bodies having jurisdiction. PSEs metering requirements
may be more stringent. Local codes and requirements related to the planned work should
be addressed before any construction begins.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

viii

PREFACE

Electrical service equipment inspection

Once your service equipment is installed, the state of Washington, or the city with
jurisdiction over your area, requires that your installation pass an electrical inspection
before PSE can energize your system.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to request an electrical inspection.

Electrical inspections for most areas in the PSE service territory are done by the
Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. However, electrical inspections
are performed by city personnel in several jurisdictions. Please consult
PSE.com\PermitsandInspections for a list of the cities and current contact information.

Reconnecting existing electric service after repair or replacement

All electrical equipment and wiring on the customer side of the meter (including meter
base and service masts) are owned and maintained by the customer. Therefore, you are
responsible for any repair or replacement of storm-damaged or failed metering
equipment. If you must repair/replace equipment of this kind, your service may need to
be de-energized or disconnected.
For more information, refer to Chapter 7, Disconnection and Modification of Service
section of this handbook or contact your CCS Representative at 1-888-321-7779.

Scheduling/Timelines
The time needed for engineering, scheduling, and construction of the work will vary
depending upon the complexity of the job, possible right-of-way permits, easements, and
the volume of work requested by PSE customers. Contact your CCS Representative at
1-888-321-7779 for current construction scheduling.

Underground or overhead service?

The two types of permanent services are: underground and overhead.
Which type of electrical system is available in your area?

You can determine if PSEs system is underground or overhead by checking for our
facilities along your road. If the power system is underground, youll see facilities like
those in Figure 1. If the power system is overhead, a series of poles similar to Figure 2
will be visible.
Use Table 1 to help you determine which type of electrical service can be provided. For
help determining which type of system is in your area, call your CCS Representative at
1-888-321-7779. If none of the items in Figures 1 or 2 exist in your area, or if you have
questions, call 1-888-321-7779 and a CCS Representative will be glad to assist you.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PREFACE

ix

Underground service

If your area is served underground, one or more underground facilities should be visible
(see Figure 1). Please request a permanent underground service (Chapter 2).

Detail

STUBOUT

HANDHOLE

PEDESTAL

PADMOUNT TRANSFORMER

Figure 1 Underground facilities

Overhead service

If the power system in your area is overhead, poles should be visible (see Figure 2).
Please request a permanent overhead service (Chapter 3).

Transformer

Pole

Figure 2 Overhead facilities

Questions or assistance

If none of the items in Figures 1 or 2 exist in your area, or if you have questions, call
1-888-321-7779 and a CCS Representative will be glad to assist you.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PREFACE

Table 1 Types of electric services

If available
electrical
system is . . .

And if . . .

Then your
service line
will be . . .

Underground

H Your new meter location is less than 225 ft from our

nearest padmount transformer (see Figure 1).
NOTE: If your new meter location is more than 225 ft
from our nearest underground transformer, an additional
transformer may be required.

Underground

Overhead

H The new meter location is less than 200 ft from our

nearest power pole.
H The service originates from the pole.

Underground

H The pole has a transformer on it (see Figure 2).

Overhead

H The new meter location is less than 125 ft from our

nearest power pole.
H The pole has a transformer on it (see Figure 2).

Overhead or
Underground

H Your service line does not cross anyone elses property.

NOTE: If your situation does not fit the criteria presented, please contact your

CCS Representative.

Other electric service information

If you need information on the installation of permanent or temporary multifamily and
nonresidential services you will find it in the PSE Electric Service Handbook for
Commercial/Industrial and Multifamily Projects.
All handbooks are available free of charge from PSE.

How to contact Puget Sound Energy

You can obtain further information by contacting us through the following:
H PSE Customer Construction Services (CCS) at 1-888-321-7779
Monday thru Friday, 7 a.m. 5 p.m.
H PSE.com/CustomerConstruction
If you have questions on Energy Efficiency Programs, please call:
H PSE Energy Advisors at 1-800-562-1482
Monday thru Friday, 8 a.m. 5 p.m.
If you have an emergency, service delivery, or general billing question regarding your
account, please call:
H Customer Service at 1-888-225-5773; TTY 1-800-962-9498
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

PSEs service providers

PSE contracts with two partner companies to provide construction and engineering
services: Potelco, Inc. and InfraSource Construction LLC. The project manager and the
employees who install your service may work for these service providers on PSEs
behalf.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PREFACE

Overview:
New Permanent and Temporary Electric Service Hookup
to Existing PSE Power Facilities for SingleFamily Residential Projects
This information applies only if PSE has existing power facilities in your area.
If electric power is not readily available, please contact
CUSTOMER CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

1-888-321-7779 or PSE.com/CustomerConstruction
Customer Responsibilities:
H Determine if you need overhead or underground service.
H Call PSE to set up an account and submit an order. Allow adequate time for possible
engineering, right-of-way permits, and easement review.
H Obtain an electrical work permit.
H If temporary service, install temporary service facility and meter base.
H If permanent service, determine the service size amp rating you want (200, 320, or 400 A).
H Determine an approved permanent meter location.
H Ensure that existing underground utilities are located before you dig. Call 811 two business
days prior to digging for a free service that will mark the location of underground lines.
H Prepare job site by providing a clear path/trench for your service line for proper vault entrance
requirements per PSE standards.
H Obtain an approved electrical inspection.
H After the electrical inspection has been completed and approved, request PSE to install and
energize your system.
Puget Sound Energys Responsibilities:
H Connect temporary service.
H Determine if engineering is required.
H Install your overhead or underground permanent service line conductors.
H Install your meter and energize your system.
Scheduling/Time Frame:
H If engineering is not required, services are typically installed and energized 3 to 5 days after you
have passed your inspection. Engineering, right-of-way permits, etc., can extend time frames
an estimated 2 to 4 weeks.
Permanent and Temporary Service Charge:
H Charges vary due to the type of service you request and the type of system we have in your
area. Contact your Customer Construction Services Representative for current rate information.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

xi

xii

PREFACE

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION

Chapter 1
Steps to a Successful Permanent Electric Service
Installation for Single-Family Residences
Definitions

PSE defines a single-family residence as a structure that is:

H Located on a legal residential lot.
H Approved for occupancy as a permanent single-family residence by the local
governing agency or agencies.
H A parcel where the lot line is extended to the public thoroughfare, even if the unit(s)
shares a common wall(s) with other like living units, such as in zero-lot-line
construction.
A mobile or manufactured home will be considered a single-family residence if it
meets the above requirements, and:
H Is permanently located on a foundation.
H Has had the axles and wheels removed.
H Meets all other requirements for a mobile home permit as required by the local
governing agency or agencies.
NOTE: A mobile or manufactured home located in a mobile home park does not qualify

as a single-family residence.

Service installation responsibilities

Installing new electrical service to your single-family residence is a joint project between
you and PSE.
Puget Sound Energy

Customer

PSE is responsible for:

H Installing the service line conductors to a customer-installed and maintained service
mast or underground meter service riser.
H Installing the meter in a customer-installed and maintained meter base/socket.
H Energizing your system.
You are responsible for:
H Determining if you need overhead or underground service.
H Setting up an account and submitting an Application for Service.
H Obtaining an electrical work permit.
H Determining the service size amp rating you want.
H Determining an approved meter location.
Continued on next page

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 1

PERMANENT ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION

H Providing site preparation and installation requirements according to PSE installation

standards in Gas and Electric Underground Service Installation Requirements
handout located in the back pocket of this handbook.
H Before any digging project, calling the 811 Call Before You Dig hotline two
business days before digging.
H Installing the meter base/socket on the outside wall in an approved location.
H Installing all the electrical wiring inside your residence.
H Obtaining a city or state inspection and approval of your installation.
H After your electrical inspection is complete, calling PSE to request that your service
be installed and energized.
H Keeping your meter base/socket accessible to PSE.

Starting the installation process

Setting up an account or to order a new service

You may establish your billing account when you are ready to initiate your temporary
service order, order your permanent service, or after the state electrical inspection is
complete and your trench is ready (if applicable).
To establish an account with PSE, call CCS at 1-888-321-7779. The CCS Representative
will ask for your billing information and the address for new service. (New addresses are
obtained from the U.S. Postal Service or the County Addressing Department.)
To order a new service, submit an Electric Service Application Single-Family Residential
100E to your CCS Representative. All forms can be downloaded from
PSE.com\customerconstruction.
Will your project need engineering?

A CCS Representative will ask you the following questions to help determine how your
project is handled:
H What kind of residential building is this service for (home, barn, shop, etc.)?
H What is the buildings square footage?
H What kind of electrical or gas appliances will you have (furnace, heat pump, air
conditioning, water heater, etc.)?
H What size service panel will you be installing?
H When will you be ready for service?
H Do you need underground or overhead service?
H Is the PSE utility connection point adjacent to your property or across the street?
NOTE: If a transformer or electrical service stubout is located on your property, your

project probably will not require engineering. If no transformer or stubout is available,

your project will require engineering, and our CCS Representative will ask you to
complete and submit an Electric Service Application Single-Family Residential 100E.
This form can be downloaded at PSE.com\customerconstruction.

CHAPTER 1

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION

Choosing the right service size

Service voltages

PSE offers their customers the voltages shown in Table 2.

Table 2 Standard voltages for residential customers
Service Type

Voltage

Single-phase

120/240 V, 3-wire *

Three-phase

120/208 V, 4-wire
277/480 V, 4-wire

*Available for loads to a maximum demand of 100 kW. Larger loads may
be served, if determined feasible by a PSE engineer. All motors must be
rated 7-1/2 HP or less.
Service sizes

PSE offers several service sizes for single-family residential structures and for
outbuildings. The service size you need depends on both the size of your home and the
power requirements of the equipment you will be installing in it. Table 3 explains the
sizes that are available.
Table 3 Service sizes available from PSE
Voltage

120/240

Ampere Rating

200 A
320 or 400 A
Over 400 A

Typical Use

Small and medium sized homes (most common size services)

Large homes
Very large homes

Sizes less than 200 A

You may install a service panel or meter base/socket that is sized less than 200 A, but the
service line and meter that PSE installs will be sized as if you were installing a 200 A
service.
If you are installing an underground service that is less than 200 A, your meter
base/socket must meet the dimensional requirements for a 200 A underground meter
base/socket, refer to Chapter 5, Meter Installation, located in this handbook.

Determining an approved meter location

NOTE: Only authorized and qualified PSE personnel shall install and remove meters.
Customer-installed meter base/socket location

You are required to install your meter base/socket in a place that is accessible to PSE. All
locations are subject to approval by a PSE Representative.
If you have questions regarding meter locations, call your CCS Representative at
1-888-321-7779.
Continued on next page

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 1

PERMANENT ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION

Meter base/sockets, including current transformer (CT) enclosures, must be located:

H Outside.
H On the front 1/3 of your home closest to normal public access.
H In an area that is not subject to being fenced-in (patios, decks, porches, breezeways
and backyards are bad locations).
H On a structure that is owned by you.
These approved locations allow us to:
H Read your meter in a cost-effective manner.
H Maintain your meter efficiently.
H Disconnect your service if there is a fire.
NOTE: Refer to Gas and Electric Underground Service Installation Requirements
handout for more information.

Know whats below: Call 811 before you dig

Before any digging project, call 811 two business days prior to digging for a free service
that will mark the location of underground lines. Its free and its the law. The Call
Before You Dig law requires anyone digging into the ground to call and have
underground utilities located to avoid potential hazards with striking or digging up utility
lines.
The locate service uses the following color codes to identify underground utilities:
Table 4 Color codes for locating utilities
Color

Utility

White

Proposed excavation

Pink

Temporary survey markings

Red

Electric power lines, cables, conduit, and lighting cables

Yellow

Gas, oil, steam, petroleum, or gaseous materials

Orange

Communication, alarm or signal lines, cables, or conduit

Blue

Potable water

Purple

Reclaimed water, irrigation, and slurry lines

Green

Sewers and drain lines

NOTE: Use white paint to mark the area within which you want utility locations.

Once all utilities are located:

H Do not dig with machinery closer than 24 inches from the locate marks.
H Hand dig to expose all utilities to be crossed.

CHAPTER 1

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION

Coordinating utility trenching and construction

New construction typically involves the installation of telephone cables, cable television
cables, and natural gas lines; as well as electric power cables.
It is the responsibility of you and your builder to notify each utility about your
intended electric service installation as well as all other utilities providing service to your
new structure.

Transformer locations
PSE will install padmount transformers using the clearances listed in Table 5 and shown
in Figures 3 through 6.
Clearances between padmount transformers and structures must be measured from the
metal portion of the transformer closest to the building or structure (including any
overhangs).
Table 5 Clearances for padmount transformers
Feature

Combustible walls or roof (including stucco).

Clearance distance

10 feet (3 feet from a

combustible
wall if using a reduced
flammability transformer).
See Figure 4.

Noncombustible walls (including brick, concrete, steel, and

stone), provided the side of the transformer facing the wall does
not have doors. Materials that pass UBC Standard 2-1 or
ASTM E136-79 are considered to be noncombustible.

3 feet. See Figure 4.

Fire sprinkler valves, standpipes, and fire hydrants.

6 feet. See Figure 3.

Doors, windows, vents, fire escapes, and other building openings.

10 feet. See Figure 3.

The waters edge of a swimming pool or any body of water.

15 feet. See Figure 3.

Individual domestic and irrigation wells.

100 feet. See Figure 3.

Facilities used to dispense or store LP or hazardous liquids or

fuels.

20 feet. See Figure 5.

10 feet. See Figure 5.

Gas service meter relief vents.

3 feet. See Figure 3.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 1

PERMANENT ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION

Transformer

100i
Well Head

15i

Pools or bodies
of water

Door, Window, Vent, or

Other Opening

10i

Gas
Meter
Relief
Vent
Fuel
Tank

Sprinkler Valve,
Standpipe, or
Hydrant

3i
Transformer

6i

10i

Fire Escape

20i

Figure 3 Clearances for transformers

CHAPTER 1

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

10i

Approved
Transformer
Area

10i

TRANSFORMER CLEARANCES FROM

COMBUSTIBLE SURFACES

Approved
Transformer
Area

10i

3i

REDUCED FLAMMABILITY TRANSFORMER

CLEARANCES FROM COMBUSTIBLE SURFACES

Combustible
roof or soffit

Noncombustible
roof and soffit

10i

Approved
Transformer
Area

3i

Noncombustible building walls

3i
3i

3i

Combustible building walls and roof.

10i

TRANSFORMER CLEARANCES FROM

NONCOMBUSTIBLE SURFACES

10i

Approved
Transformer
Area

3i

Noncombustible building walls

Combustible building walls and roof.

PERMANENT ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION

TRANSFORMER CLEARANCES FROM

NONCOMBUSTIBLE WALLS WITH
COMBUSTIBLE ROOFING

Figure 4 Clearances for transformers from structures

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 1

PERMANENT ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION

6i
Min

OilFilled Electrical
Equipment
(Pad or Pole Mounted)

20i Min
LP Tank

LP Tank

10i Min

OilFilled
Electrical
Equipment
(Pad or Pole
Mounted)

Dike of adequate height to

contain oil and not allow it
to flow towards the LP tank.

Top View

Figure 5 Minimum clearances from oil-filled equipment to LP, hazardous liquid, or fuel tanks

Liquefied propane tanks: clearances from ignition source

If there are liquefied propane (LP), hazardous liquid, or fuel tanks on your property, the
following minimum clearances apply from PSEs padmounted transformer or the ignition
source (see Figures 5 and 6).
H All LP tanks must be at least 6 feet from a vertical plane extending down from an
overhead primary voltage line.
H Consumer storage LP tanks must be at least 5 feet from any source of ignition, such
as electric meter bases, submersible transformers, secondary handholes or pedestals,
or padmount switches.
H The fill connection, gauge connection, or vent on the LP tank must be at least 10 feet
from any source of ignition.

CHAPTER 1

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION

Primary Voltage
Power Line

Electric Meter
Base or Switch

Gauge, Vent, or
Fill Connections

6i Min

10i Min

5i Min

5i Min

LP GAS

Submersible Transformer, Handhole, Switch, or Pedestal

Figure 6 Minimum clearances from LP storage tanks to sources of ignition

Outbuildings
An outbuilding is a stand-alone structure which is located on residential property and is
not a living space. Typical outbuildings are barns, pump houses, garages, shops, and
storage sheds.
Service line installation responsibilities for outbuildings

An underground service line to an outbuilding is installed by the customer or PSE,

depending upon the intended use of the outbuilding (see Table 6).
If you want PSE to install a separate service to your outbuilding, refer to the Service
Installation Responsibilities section at the beginning of this chapter.
Table 6 Service line installation responsibilities
If the primary use of Outbuilding is for . . .

Commercial purposes or a pump house for a

multifamily/community well serving more than 2 households.
General residential (garages, shops, small barns and well pump
houses serving up to 2 households).

Service line will be installed and

maintained by . . .

Customer
Puget Sound Energy

NOTE: Installation costs and billing rates are different for the each type of primary use

of outbuildings. Contact your CCS Representative at 1-888-321-7779 for more

information.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 1

10

PERMANENT ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION

Cost for service

Charges vary depending on the location of existing electrical facilities, the type of service
you are requesting, and the distance to run service from our facilities to your home.
Contact CCS at 1-888-321-7779 to determine the cost for service.

Power quality, voltage flicker

In your Application for Service, PSE requires the locked rotor starting currents for the
largest single-phase and three-phase motors that draw in-rush current. After we determine
the size of transformer required to serve the new load of the facility, we will calculate the
percent voltage flicker (from the motors starting current) at the point of service and
provide that number to you.
If this voltage dip exceeds PSEs limits based on facility type, the transformer size must
be increased to compensate for this. You will be responsible for the difference in cost of
the larger transformer, or you will need to install sufficient controls to bring flicker back
within PSEs limits.
NOTE: We will size PSEs facilities to provide a level of voltage flicker that is normally

acceptable to customers. If you need to be served with a higher quality of service, contact
your CCS Representative.

CHAPTER 1

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE 11

Chapter 2
Permanent Underground Service
Steps to a successful underground service installation
The following list details the key steps in the installation of your underground service
resulting in PSEs installation of your underground service line and meter (see Figure 7).
H Confirm where your service line will originate by contacting Customer Construction
Services (CCS) at 1-888-321-7779.
H Call PSE to set up an account and submit an order. Allow adequate time for possible
engineering, right-of-way permits, and easement review.
H Obtain an electrical work permit.
H Determine an acceptable location for your meter base/socket.
H Order underground utility locate service by contacting the 811 Call Before You Dig
hotline two business days before digging.
H Dig a trench and provide proper conduit between your meter location and the service
line origination (transformer, handhole, pole, or stubout).
Provide 4-foot-square work pits at poles, stubouts, handholes, and meter service
entrance.
Provide conduit for electrical service lines that are less than 100 feet and a
3/8-inch pull rope if over 60 feet.
H Install your meter base/socket service entrance equipment.
H Obtain a city or state electrical inspection and approval of your installation.
H Call CCS at 1-888-321-7779 to have your service installed and energized.

Pole

Meter Riser
Secondary
Handhole

24I Min depth of cover

48I Max. depth of trench

Underground Service Line

Figure 7 Typical underground service from overhead power facilities

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 2

12 PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE

Selecting a meter base/socket location

When choosing your meter base/socket location, be sure to consider the types of terrain
where your service line will be buried. Since PSE is responsible for repairing your
service line if it fails, the path you select is subject to being dug up. Therefore, we
recommend that the service line route be accessible for repairs and excavation.
NOTE: Refer to Chapter 1, Determining an approved meter location section,

Customer-installed meter base/socket location subsection.

Multiple metered services

If a residential class customer installs a bus gutter or meter-pack enclosure to set

two meters (one meter for the house, the other for the shop, barn, garage, etc.) on a
single piece of property being billed to the same individual, PSE will run a single
service line at the customers request. However, the single line must accommodate the
kW load and limit the voltage drop and voltage flicker to within PSEs standards.
NOTE: PSE will not run a single service line to a bus gutter or meter-pack that serves

multiple residential class customers residing on differing properties with separate legal
ownership.

Service line trenches

This section refers to the illustrations found in the Electric Underground Service
Installation Requirements handout, located in the back pocket of this handbook and
available at PSE.com\customerconstruction.
Trench and backfill requirements

PSE will allow customer-owned facilities within the service line trench, if the following
minimum horizontal clearances from PSE facilities are maintained:
H 18 inches minimum for customer-owned tight-line sewer (not tile), storm drain lines,
roof drain lines, natural gas line, propane gas line, fuel oil line, and water mains up to
6 inches.
H 12 inches minimum for water services, irrigation pipes, lighting, security and electric
supply circuits, closed-system roof drains/storm drains (not French drains), and
culverts.
NOTE: The Electric Underground Service Installation Requirements handout illustrates

the service trench requirements in detail.

Customer-installed service line conduit

If your service line will be crossing under any permanent structure (driveways,
sidewalks, decks, patios, rockeries, retaining walls, or through your backyard), you are
required to provide and install conduit under those obstructions.
You are required to provide an electrical service line conduit for services 100 feet long or
less. However, PSE recommends the use of conduit for all services.

CHAPTER 2

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE 13

Customer-installed service line conduit installation requirements

H The service line conduit shall be gray, schedule 40 PVC conduit with a minimum
2-1/2 inches in diameter for runs of less than 100 feet.
H If you are installing a heat pump with a 320 A service panel and/or the length is
100 feet or longer, the conduit must be 3 inches in diameter.
H White water pipe or green sewer pipe is not acceptable.
H The service line conduit shall contain no more than a total of 180 degrees of bends of
which no individual bend is less than a 24-inch radius.
H Install a 3/8-inch pull rope in the conduit (if conduit runs are 60 feet or more).
H Stop the conduit 4 feet from the pole in the work pit with the pole butt exposed.
H Do not provide a conduit elbow at the base of PSEs pole, and do not install conduit
on a PSE pole.
H When installing conduit at a transformer, stop 2 feet from the entrance at the bottom
of the transformer minipad (Figure 8 and 9).
NOTE: Details of a service line trench with customer-installed conduit is shown in the

Electric Underground Service Installation Requirements handout, found in the back

pocket of this handbook.

Continuous and discontinuous conduit systems

A continuous conduit system is defined as a section of conduits permanently glued
together and installed between the location of available power (e.g., PSE power pole,
padmount transformer, pedestal, handhole, or stubout) and the meter socket without any
points of separation where it exists underground (e.g., conduit work pits). See Figure 8.
A discontinuous conduit system is defined as multiple sections of conduits installed
between the location of available power and the meter socket with points of separation
between sections where they exist underground (see Figure 9).
Choosing to install a continuous conduit system has its advantages and disadvantages:
H An advantage of a continuous conduit system is that the PSE electrical crew does not
require an excavated work pit to be open at the location of your meter socket on the
day your new service is energized.
H Disadvantages of a continuous conduit system:
The length should be limited to 100 feet maximum in order to ensure PSEs
electrical cable can be pulled between the location of available power and the
meter socket, and,
Water can migrate and flow into the home if the available power source exists at a
higher elevation than the location of the meter socket.
NOTE: If service lengths exceed 100 feet, contact CSS Engineering to determine if the

continuous conduit section will pull.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 2

14 PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE

Meter Socket
(Surface or Flush Mounted)

PSE Transformer
(Or Pedestal, Handhole, Pole, or Stubout)

Excavated Dirt Pile

and
Select Fill Bedding/Shading

PSE Service Cable

24I Min

24I Min

Continuous conduit between available

source of power and service entrance
(Meter socket)

Figure 8 Example of continuous conduit in underground electric service

When to choose continuous conduit

Choose to install a continuous conduit system for your electrical service if:
H Your electrical service length is 100 feet or less.
H The sum total of the degrees of bends in the conduit run (including the bend required
at the bottom of the meter base riser) does not exceed 180_.
H The elevation at the location of available power is less than the elevation of your
meter socket (i.e., your meter socket is uphill from the location of available power).
NOTE: By choosing to install a continuous conduit system, the customer assumes

responsibility for recognizing potential surface and sub-grade water flows that may create
an entry of water into the customers electrical equipment. PSE is not responsible for
damage caused by water entering a customers meter base or equipment.

CHAPTER 2

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE 15

Meter Socket
(Surface or Flush Mounted)

PSE Transformer
(Or Pedestal, Handhole, Pole, or Stubout)

Excavated Dirt Pile

and
Select Fill Bedding/Shading

PSE Service Cable

24I Min

24I Min

24I Min

One or multiple sections of discontinuous

conduit between available source of power
and service entrance. (Meter Socket)

Figure 9 Example of discontinuous conduit in underground electric service

When to choose discontinuous conduit

Choose to install a discontinuous conduit system for your electrical service if:
H Your electrical service length is 101 feet or longer.
H The sum total of the degrees of bends in the conduit run (including the bend required
at the bottom of the meter base riser) exceeds 180_ requiring additional work pits for
cable pulling.
H The elevation at the location of available power is greater than the elevation of your
meter socket (i.e., your meter socket is downhill from the location of available
power).
A table for selecting the required conduit size in a continuous conduit system is provided
in the Electric Underground Service Installation Requirements handout found in the back
pocket of this handbook.
Contact CCS at 1-888-321-7779 if you have questions on whether to install continuous
or discontinuous conduit for your underground electric service.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 2

16 PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE

Service entrance equipment

Determine the meter base/socket location, the service line route, and the size of the
service you want (for example, 200 A), before you begin installing your service entrance
equipment.
Installation requirements

H Service entrance equipment can be installed either flush-mounted or surface-mounted

(see Figure 10).
H Install the meter base/socket so that the center of the meter will be between 4 and
6 feet above finished grade with a 5-foot height being preferred.
H The service entrance conduit has a maximum of one 45-degree or 90-degree bend
with a minimum 24-inch radius.
H You may not use LB joints, conduits, or devices that allow access to the service
conductor in the riser ahead of the meter.
H A current transformer (CT) enclosure, if required, must be mounted on the outside
of the structure it serves.
NOTE: Service entrance equipment for a 401800 A installation is shown in Figure 11.
Service entrance conduit size

The Electric Underground Service Installation Requirements handout illustrates the

service entrance conduit size requirements in detail.

CHAPTER 2

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE 17

10

10

Customer
Service Panel

3
4

6i Max.
5i Preferred
4i Min

Customer
Service Panel

6i Max.
5i Preferred
4i Min

Conductor slack for

ground settlement

2i *
Min

6
7

11

12

13

2i *
Min

Conductor slack for

ground settlement

11

2i3 i

12

METER BASE/SOCKET FLUSHMOUNTED

13

2i3 i

METER BASE/SOCKET SURFACEMOUNTED

NOTE: Conductor slack shall be left at the base of the service entrance for ground settlement, to relieve tension on meter connections.
Items Owned and Installed by Customer

Items Owned and Installed by Puget Sound Energy

1
2
3

Terminal adapter or lock washer

Conduit strap (2)

Rigid steel conduit, Sch 40 or Sch 80 PVC [

12

Conduit (required in residential plats)

Elbow, 45 or 90, 24I min radius

13

Bell end

Bell end

Lock washer

NOTE: Total distance of raceway within the building

to the customer's overcurrent protection shall not
exceed 15 ft. (WAC 29646B230.070)

Ground electrode and wire in accordance with

NEC/WAC

Meter base/socket

10

Meter

Insulating bushing

11

Service line
PSE Owned but Customer Purchased and Installed

* Optional grounding electrode for structures without

permanent foundation.
[ Schedule 40 PVC or rigidsteel conduit may not
be allowed on flushmount installations. Check
with local jurisdictional codes before installation.

Figure 10 Two types of meter bases/sockets for permanent underground service, home built
on permanent foundation

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 2

18 PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE

SINGLEPHASE INSTALLATION

6i Max.
5i Preferred
4i Min

15I Min

2i Min
*

12

12

No conduit
in this area

14

Load
10

1
15

16

2i3 i

Items Owned and Installed by Customer

4

Line

Items Owned and Installed by Puget Sound Energy

Conduit (Sch 40 or Sch 80 PVC or Steel or EMT)

1I singlephase
11/4I threephase

Service conductors (residential only)

Meter

Current transformer with meter circuit wiring

Insulating bushing

Six terminal meter base/socket with test switch space

Rigid steel conduit, Sch 40 or Sch 80 PVC [

Insulating bushing

15

Conduit (required in residential plats)

Current transformer encl. (outside or in elec. room)

16

Bell end

10

45 or 90 bend rigid steel, Sch 40 or Sch 80 PVC

11

Line and load side connectors for service conductors

(2bolt lugs)

12

Ground electrode and wire in accordance with NEC/WAC

13

Current transformer mounting bracket

14

Bell end

PSE Owned but Customer Purchased and Installed

NOTE: Total distance of raceway within the building to

the customer's overcurrent protection shall not exceed
15 ft. (WAC 29646B230.070)
* Optional Grounding Electrode for Structures without
Permanent Foundation.
[ Schedule 40 PVC or rigidsteel conduit may not be
not allowed on flushmount installations. Check with
local jurisdictional codes before installation.

Figure 11 401800 A service entrance equipment, home built

on permanent foundation

CHAPTER 2

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE 19

Permanent underground service for manufactured homes, 0200 A

Service equipment installation

If you are installing an underground service to your manufactured home, your service
equipment can be installed one of two ways:
H On a customer-owned pedestal or meter post (see Figure 12).
H On the manufactured home, if both of the following conditions are met:
The manufacturer installed the service equipment at the time your home was built.
The service equipment meets the meter base/socket requirements listed
below.
Meter base/socket requirements

Meter base/sockets installed on manufactured homes must:

H Be located on an outside wall of your home.
H Be located on the front one-third of your home closest to normal public access. Refer
to Meter Locations and Clearances on Page 2 of the Electric Underground Service
Installation Requirements handout for more information.
H Be between 4 and 6 feet above finished grade.
H Meet PSEs service entrance conduit size requirements.
H Not be in a walkway or breezeway.
H Not be in an area that is subject to being fenced.
NOTE: Meter bases/sockets not installed on the manufactured home must meet the

requirements of NEC 550.32(B).

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 2

20 PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE

1
11

11

8
2

Weatherproof
Panel

3i Min

6i Max.
3i Min
3

Conduit to be rigidly
fastened to support.

24I Min

12 24I Min

14

10

24I Min

Load

36I Min

12

14

10

3
Load

Line
7
13

Line

2i3 i

7
13

Customer's conductor to mobile

home. Install according to NEC.

2i3 i

Customer's conductor to mobile

home. Install according to NEC.

METER PEDESTAL
Manufactured homes only

METER POST
Items Owned and Installed by Customer

Items Owned and Installed by Puget Sound Energy

6I x 6I x 8i min fully pressuretreated post

11

Meter

Service entrance equipment

12

PSE Service line

Service conduit as specified in Table 7

Ground wire, in accordance with NEC

PSE Owned but Customer Purchased and Installed

Ground rod, in accordance with NEC

13

Conduit (required in residential plats)

Service conductor to building/residence

14

Bell end

Elbow, 45 or 90 bend, 24I min radius

Factorybuilt metal meter pedestal

(manufactured homes only)

9
10

36I x 36I x 3I min concrete stabilizer pad

Bell end

Figure 12 Permanent underground service for manufactured homes, 0200 A

Remote metering (meter loop) for underground residential services

What is remote metering?

Normally, a meter base/socket and associated devices (current transformers, etc.) are
attached to a permanent fixed structure that contains the load being served (such as a
house). If the metering equipment is not attached to the permanent structure, it is called
remote metering. In this case, the conductors that run from the meter to your house are
installed, owned, and maintained by you.
Requirements for residential remote metering, 200 A or less

Remote metering shall be mounted on a structure or meter post. It is your responsibility

to purchase, install, and maintain this equipment. The required metering cabinet and
supporting structure are shown in Figure 13.

CHAPTER 2

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE 21

Items Owned and Installed by Customer

1

6I x 6I x 8i min fully pressuretreated post

Service entrance equipment

Service conduit as specified in Table 7

Ground wire, in accordance with NEC

Ground rod, in accordance with NEC

Service conductor to building/residence

Elbow, 45 or 90 bend, 24I min radius

Bell end

9
2
6i Max.
3 Min
3

Conduit to be rigidly
fastened to support.

24I Min

12

Items Owned and Installed by Puget Sound Energy

9
10

10 24I Min

Load

36I Min
Line

Meter

7
11

PSE Service line

PSE Owned but Customer Purchased and Installed

11

Conduit (required in residential plats)

12

Bell end

2i3 i

Customer's conductor to mobile

home. Install according to NEC.

METER POST

Figure 13 Remote metering for underground residential services

400 A and larger panels

Remote meter installations that require current transformers shall be mounted on

permanent support structures that are made of galvanized steel pipe with unistrut
cross-braces, concrete, or masonry blocks. Support structures made of wood (treated or
not) are unacceptable.
The customer shall provide a 3-foot x 3-foot x 3-inch-thick concrete pad surrounding the
meter or holes 2 feet deep that are filled with concrete to anchor the structure.
Meter bases/sockets shall be permanently labeled to indicate the address they serve.
PSE requires engraved phenolic nameplates or adhesive die-cut labels at least 1-inch
high. Service will not be established until marking is complete.
NOTE: Felt-tip pens and label maker tape are not considered permanent marking.

Other requirements specified in this handbook for meter bases/sockets and current
transformer (CT) enclosures apply.
Remote services greater than 800 A

Remote services 800 A or greater require EUSERC outdoor switchgear. Ask your
CCS Representative for more information.
Meter post and pedestal locations

Remote metering must be:

H Accessible for reading and maintenance during normal business hours.
H Not be in a walkway or breezeway.
H Not be in an area that is subject to being fenced or enclosed.
H Safe parking must be located within 50 feet of the meter.
NOTE: When installed close to PSEs transformer, all metering equipment must be a

minimum of 3 feet from the transformer and not installed in front of the transformer.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 2

22 PERMANENT UNDERGROUND SERVICE

CHAPTER 2

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT OVERHEAD SERVICE

23

Chapter 3
Permanent Overhead Service
Steps to a successful overhead service installation
The following checklist will assist you in preparing for the installation of an overhead
service (see Figure 14). After you have completed these items, PSE can install the
overhead service line and meter.
H Check for any local ordinances/covenants that prevent you from obtaining an
overhead service.
H Call PSE to set up an account and submit an order. Allow adequate time for possible
engineering, right-of-way permits, and easement review.
H Obtain an electrical work permit.
H Complete Electric Service Application Single-Family Residential 100E. All forms can
be downloaded at PSE.com\customerconstruction.
H Supply site drawings and load information to your PSE Customer Construction
Services (CCS) Representative.
H Call CCS to find out where your service line will originate.
H Determine an acceptable location for your meter base/socket.
H Provide a path clear of obstructions between PSEs service pole and your
service mast.
H Provide the location of any domestic or community water well on your property.
H Install the required service entrance equipment.
H Install the service entrance conductors (leave a minimum of 18 inches exposed at the
weatherhead).
H Verify that the service mast height requirements have been met (see Figure 15).
H Provide payment for any preconstruction costs determined by CCS.
H Have the city or state inspect and approve your installation.
H Call CCS at 1-888-321-7779 to have your service installed and energized.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 3

24

PERMANENT OVERHEAD SERVICE

Selecting a meter base/socket location

After CCS determines which pole the service line will come from, you can determine the
location of your meter base/socket.
Your meter base/socket should be located outside and on the front one-third of your
structure closest to normal public access. Refer to the Electric Underground Service
Installation Requirements handout located in the back pocket of this handbook.
Consider the type of terrain the line will cross when choosing a meter base/socket
location. PSE strongly suggests avoiding service line routes that cross a driveway.
Service lines that cross driveways can be hit by vehicles, which can cause damage to the
service equipment and even to your home.

Transformer

Service Line
(Utility Owned and Installed)

Service Entrance
Conductor

Weatherhead
Service Mast Guy

Power Pole
Service Mast

Meter

Service Panel

Figure 14 Typical overhead service installation

Clearance requirements
Service line ground clearance

The National Electric Safety Code (NESC) establishes minimum clearance requirements
to maintain safe height requirements for electrical conductors over various terrain
(see Figure 15).
The NESC requires the lowest point of a service conductor to be at least 12 feet above
the ground. The bottom of the drip loop must be a minimum of 10 feet above the ground.
If the service line will pass through any trees, you are required to prune those trees to
provide a clear path for the service line. You are also responsible for regular tree
pruning, and if necessary, tree removal to keep the path clear.
It is not your responsibility to string the conductor, but you are required to provide a
point of attachment at your service mast that will allow PSE to install the conductor and
maintain the required clearances.
If you need further details, please contact the state or local electrical inspector for
your area.
CHAPTER 3

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT OVERHEAD SERVICE

25

Service Line
(Utility Owned)
Service Mast
Connection Point

26i
171/2i

13i

12i

State Highways

Streets, Alleys, County Roads,

Driveways, and Parking Areas

Residential Property

Figure 15 Minimum overhead service line vertical clearances from ground level
Minimum clearances from structures, building openings, and gas meters

H A minimum clearance of 3 feet is required between electric service lines and

windows, doors, porches, fire escapes, or similar openings.
H A minimum horizontal clearance of 3 feet is required between electric service
equipment and natural gas meter pressure relief vent (see Figure 16).
H Service lines passing over the roof of another structure (but not attached to that
structure) must maintain the minimum clearances (see Figure 16).
H Service lines passing over a deck must maintain a minimum clearance of 11 feet
(see Figure 16).

Service Line
(Utility Owned)
11i Min
31/2i Min
11i Min

3i
Min

Deck

Roofs with
Permanent Access

Electric
Meter

Gas
Meter

Roofs without
Permanent Access

Figure 16 Minimum clearances over other structures

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 3

26

PERMANENT OVERHEAD SERVICE

Intermediate service pole

When the length of an overhead service line exceeds 125 feet or the clearances shown in
Figure 16 cannot be achieved, an intermediate service pole may be required to maintain
safe ground clearance (see Figure 17) for the wire and to relieve excessive tension at the
service mast.
This intermediate service pole is set and owned by PSE and the cost is in addition to the
service line costs. Please contact CCS for installations that may require an intermediate
service pole to determine additional costs.

When your service line exceeds 125i

Power Pole

Secondary Line
(Utility Owned)

Intermediate
Service Pole
(Utility Set & Owned)

Service Mast

Service Line
(Utility Owned)

Water Well

50i Min

50i Min

Figure 17 Intermediate service pole location

Service mast
A service mast is a rigid steel conduit that runs vertically from the top of your meter
base/socket up through your roof. It contains your service entrance conductors and
typically supports one end of your service line. Service masts are necessary when
installing an overhead service and are installed by you or your electrical contractor.
Service mast requirements

The service requirements for the installation of the service mast are located in the
National Electric Code (NEC). Some of the more common methods are included in this
section (see Figures 18 and 19).
Height requirements

The service bracket (the point of connection with PSEs service wire at the top of your
service mast) must be at least 13 feet above final grade or terrain so that the minimum
clearances over your property can be maintained. Additional height may be required
depending on the location and type of structure or terrain which your service line passes
over.
The NEC also requires that your service mast maintain minimum clearances above your
roof (see Figure 18). The clearance required depends on the slope of your roof, and
whether or not your service line is attached to the structure.
For other options and details refer to the NEC. Your CCS Representative can assist you
with determining the proper mast height.

CHAPTER 3

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT OVERHEAD SERVICE

Weatherhead

Service Drop

Weatherhead

Service Drop
Service Bracket

Service Bracket

Flashing

Flashing
18I Minimum
24I Maximum *

2I x 6I Installed
Solidly Between
Rafters and Against
Roof Sheathing

27

Flashing in Courses
of Shingles

18I Minimum
24I Maximum *

Minimum 2I x 6I
Installed Solidly
Between Rafters
or Studs with Hole
Bored for Snug Fit
Rigid Steel
Conduit

Detail
Blocking Between
Mast and Building

Rigid Steel
Conduit

5/16I UBolts
2I x 6I Backing

Structural
Framing and
Finish Materials

Shim Meter
Base/Socket
and Fasten
with Screws

Structural
Framing and
Finish Materials
Flush Meter
Socket

Stud

Ground

Ground

MAST HEIGHT BELOW 26I

Meter Surface Mounted,
UBolts Secure Mast

MAST HEIGHT BELOW 26I

Meter Flush Mounted

Weatherhead
Service Drop
* Additional support guys required for attachments
greater than 24I above roofline or if service line
exceeds 100i in length.

Service Bracket
Flashing
18I Minimum
24I Maximum *

Galvanized LagBolt
into Framing Member

HeavyWall
StrutType
Channel

Minimum 2I x 6I
Between Rafters with
Hole Bored for Snug Fit
Rigid Steel Conduit

FRONT VIEW

MAST HEIGHT BELOW 26I

Meter Surface Mounted,
Galvanized Lag Bolts Secure Mast

Figure 18 Unguyed service masts

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 3

28

PERMANENT OVERHEAD SERVICE

Service Bracket

Weatherhead

Weatherhead

No. 6 Copperweld,
Aircraft Cable or
Equivalent
3/4I Rigid Galvanized Conduit
or Equivalent Ends Flattened
and Drilled

45_
Minimum
18I Minimum

45_
Minimum

Sharp Bend; No Radius.

See Detail 2

Collars, Cyclone Fence

Clamp or Equivalent
with 3/8I Minimum Bolt
Size

See
Detail 1
Flashing
Structural Framing
and Finish Materials
Blocking Between
Mast and Building

5/16I UBolt
2I x 4I Backing

5/16I UBolt
2I x 4I Backing

Rigid Steel
Conduit

Rigid Steel
Conduit

Structural
Framing and
Finish Materials
Ground

Ground
Galvanized Thimble
and Cable Clamp

Collars, Cyclone Fence

Clamp or Equal with
3/8I Minimum Bolt Size

Flashing or Mastic

Galvanized Bolt;
EyeBolt Optional

Attachment
See Detail 1

Pull
60d 90d
Guy Wires
60d 90d
Apart

Pull

METHOD OF GUYING

DETAIL 1

DETAIL 2

Figure 19 Guyed service masts

CHAPTER 3

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT OVERHEAD SERVICE

29

Additional mast supports (guy or brace)

Additional mast supports, typically a guy or a brace, are required for any service line if:
H The service line is over 100 feet long; or,
H The point of attachment is more than 24 inches above your roof (see Figure 19).
Guys and braces are installed to prevent the weight of the service line from pulling your
service mast away from your home or damaging your roof.
Further information regarding guying and bracing service masts is available in the NEC.
Screw-in service knobs

For new or altered overhead service lines, you must provide a substantial point of
attachment that meets NEC requirements. Older type screw-in service knobs attached to
the homes wall are often inadequate to support modern triplexed service lines. PSE may
prohibit use of service knobs if deemed inadequate.

Service entrance equipment installation requirements

After you have determined the meter base/socket location, the service route, the height of
your service mast, and the size of your service (200 A, 400 A, etc.); you are ready to
begin installing your service entrance equipment.
Once you have installed your meter base/socket and mast you are ready to provide and
install your service entrance conductor. The service entrance conductor is the wire
that is connected to the top lugs in your meter base/socket and runs up through the
service mast.
The service entrance conductors must be sized according to the NEC and to the rating of
your meter base/socket. When installing the wire, leave at least 18 inches of it exposed at
the end of the weatherhead to allow PSE to connect your service line to it. When you
install your meter base/socket, make sure the center of the meter will be between 4 and
6 feet (5 feet preferred) above finished ground level.
If you have any questions regarding the installation of your service equipment, we
suggest that you refer to the NEC, call the inspecting agency for your area, or contact an
electrical contractor.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 3

30

PERMANENT OVERHEAD SERVICE

Manufactured homes
If you are installing an overhead service to a manufactured home, our service equipment
can be installed one of two ways:
1. On a customer-owned meter pole, or
2. On the manufactured home, if both of these conditions are met:
a. The manufacturer installed the service equipment at the time the home was
built, and
b. The service equipment meets the meter base/socket requirements listed
below.
Meter base/socket installation requirements for manufactured homes

Meter base/sockets installed on manufactured homes must be:

H Located on an outside wall of your home and accessible for reading and testing.
H Located on the front one-third of your home closest to normal public access.
H Between 4 and 6 feet above finished grade.
NOTE: Do not locate the meter base/socket in an area that is subject to being fenced.

Customer-owned meter pole

Meter pole requirements

If a meter pole is required for the project, it is your responsibility to purchase and install
it. The meter pole must meet the following requirements:
H Be sound, round, reasonably straight, and made of wood.
H Fully pressure treated.
H Class 6 or better with a minimum diameter of 5-1/2 inches at the top.
H 30 feet long minimum (25 feet with prior approval).
H Butt gain cut 12 feet from the bottom of the pole (2-inch by 1/2-inch cut into the face
of the pole), or a manufacturers tag attached at 12 feet from the bottom of the pole.
Installation requirements

The installation requirements for a meter pole are:

H Must be buried a minimum of 10% of the poles length plus 2 feet. If soil conditions
are poor, crushed rock should be used as a substitute for backfill to stabilize the pole.
H Must be guyed if the service line crosses a public road or if the distance between the
meter pole and PSEs pole is greater than 70 feet. A push brace or pole key brace may
be used if guy space is not available.
A meter pole installation is shown in Figure 20.
NOTE: Multiple meters serving separate properties are not allowed on a single-meter

pole.

If you have any questions, contact your CCS Representative for further assistance.

CHAPTER 3

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PERMANENT OVERHEAD SERVICE

UtilityOwned
and Installed

CustomerOwned
and Installed

UtilityOwned
and Installed

31

CustomerOwned
and Installed

Point of Attachment

Point of
Delivery

Point of Attachment

Point of
Delivery

Overhead service
load if applicable

6i Max.
5i Preferred
4i Min

10% of Pole
Length, + 2i

6i Max.
5i Preferred
4i Min

10% of Pole
Length, + 2i

Anchor
Rod *

Anchor
Rod *

OVERHEAD TO UNDERGROUND

OVERHEAD TO OVERHEAD

Items Owned and Installed by Customer

1
2
3

Items Owned and Installed by

Puget Sound Energy

Customerowned meter pole

Meter socket
Ground wire, in accordance with NEC

Ground rods, in accordance with NEC

Down guy, 5/16I minimum diameter noncorrosive stranded

steel wire required for services over 70 ft from PSE pole. Push
brace or pole key brace may be substituted for down guy.

Service entrance conductors - 18I out of weatherhead

Insulated clevis

Service line

Meter

* Anchors should be either screwtype

or crossplate type.

Figure 20 Permanent overhead meter pole installation

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 3

32

PERMANENT OVERHEAD SERVICE

CHAPTER 3

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PRIMARY LINE EXTENSIONS

33

Chapter 4
Primary Line Extensions
If your new residence is not located close to existing primary electrical facilities, a
primary line extension is required to place a transformer close to your structure. Primary
line extensions are typically underground facilities.

Customer responsibility
PSEs Electric Tariff G, Schedule 85 requires customers to provide the trenching,
excavation for vaults and backfill in accordance with PSE standards and work sketch, or
contract with PSE to provide this work at its estimated cost.
If you require a primary line extension, submit Electric Service Application
Single-Family Residential 100E. All forms can be downloaded at
PSE.com\customerconstruction.

Inspection/Coordination
PSE shall assign a Project Manager to oversee the trenching, equipment
placement/installation, and backfilling.
H Work shall be subject to the inspection and satisfaction of PSE.
H No work shall be backfilled, covered, or concealed until it has been inspected and
approved by the inspector.

Site preparation
The following site requirements must be met before the installation can begin.
H The trench route shall be clear of spoils, construction materials, and any other
obstacles.
H The site shall be at final grade or acceptable subgrade in the area of construction.
H The front property line shall be surveyed and staked.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 4

34

PRIMARY LINE EXTENSIONS

Customer-provided trench
Trench width

The minimum trench width is 18 inches. The excavator may need to increase the trench
width depending on the other conduits/lines being installed in the trench.
When increasing the trench width, remember to allow adequate horizontal separation
between PSEs electrical conduits/cables, gas lines, and other utility-owned conduits and
lines in the trench (see Figure 21).
Customer-owned facilities may not be in the same trench with PSE-owned gas lines.
PSE will allow customer-owned facilities within an electric power trench if the following
minimum horizontal clearances from PSE electric facilities are maintained:
H 18 inches minimum for customer-owned tight-line sewer (not tile), storm drain lines,
roof drain lines, natural gas line, propane gas line, fuel oil line, and water mains up to
6 inches.
H 12 inches minimum for water services, irrigation pipes, lighting, security and electric
supply circuits, communication lines, closed-system roof drains/storm drains (not
French drains), and culverts.
Figure 21 illustrates PSEs width and depth requirements for primary voltage cable
residential line extension trenches on private property with and without a gas line
present.

PRIMARY POWER CABLE

Direct Buried or DB120
Conduit Installation

PRIMARY POWER CABLE

Schedule 40 Conduit Installation

ROADSIDE

18I
Typical

24I Min
(To Excavated Dirt Pile)

Final Grade

Final Grade

36I
Min
Cover

Backfill for
DB120 Conduit/Direct Buried Cable
(No Rocks over 10I Diameter)

4I Min
Separation

48I
Max.

36I
Min
Cover

3I of sand, 5/8I minus, or clean backfill bedding

Phone & TV

Primary Power Cable

Directly Buried or in PSE Provided
DB120 Grade Conduit

24I Min
(To Excavated Dirt Pile)

Backfill for
Schedule 40
Conduit
(NO Rocks over
10I Diameter)

4I Min
Separation

48I
Max.

6I or 12I of sand, 5/8I minus,

or clean backfill shading 1

Phone & TV

18I
Typical

ROADSIDE

Primary Power Cable in

Customer Provided
Schedule 40 Conduit

PRIMARY POWER, MAINLINE GAS, AND COMMUNICATIONS

ROADSIDE

32I Typical

24I Min

(Power, Gas, and Communications)

Final Grade

12I Min
Separation

36I Min
Cover

12I Min
Separation

48I
Max.

4I Min
Separation

Excavated
Dirt Pile

Backfill
(No rocks over 10I diameter)

6I or 12I Min Sand Shading after Compaction 2

See Trench and backfill requirements

for primary electric line extension trenches (no
PSE gas) on page 35.

See Trench and backfill requirements

for primary electric line extension trenches (with
PSE gas) on page 36.

4I Sand Bedding

Gas

Communications

Primary Power
Cables or Conduit

Figure 21 Typical joint utility trench with primary voltage cable on your private property (cross-section view)

CHAPTER 4

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PRIMARY LINE EXTENSIONS

35

Trench excavating requirements

The following requirements for the trench must be met before power conduits/cables will
be installed.
H When you trench in right-of-way on PSEs behalf, the governing jurisdictions issue
public roadway use permits to PSE.
H For trench work provided by you within a public right-of-way or a PSE easement,
PSE requires that you use a Washington State licensed and bonded contractor and
complete and sign a PSE trenching agreement form.
H Trench work within a public right-of-way must meet the erosion and sediment control
requirements of the local jurisdiction.
NOTE: Acquiring permits for excavation-related activity can take up to a month or

H
H
H
H

longer depending on the amount of material being excavated, location of the

excavation, and the jurisdiction issuing the permit. To avoid schedule delays contact
your PSE Project Manager for an estimated time frame to acquiring your permits.
Provide a signed Excavation Requirements & Final Grade Certification document
supplied by your Project Manager or PSE Representative.
The trench shall be excavated according to the trench detail and PSEs work sketch.
The trench shall be straight and the trench bottom shall be smooth, level, and free
from obstructions, sharp objects, or rocks larger than 1/2 inch in diameter.
Excavated or loose material shall be placed at least 2 feet from the field edge of the
trench.

H Water shall be removed by pumping or draining following the erosion and sediment
control requirements of the local jurisdiction.
NOTE: Trenches or vault excavations that are 4 feet deep or greater require special
sloping. Contact your PSE Project Manager for these requirements.
Trench and backfill requirements for primary electric line extension trenches (no PSE gas)

PSE will not energize its facilities until backfill is completed.

When PSE primary cables are directly buried, or installed in PSE-provided DB120
grade conduit, you are responsible for the following:
H Providing a minimum 3-inch bedding layer of sand, 5/8-inch minus, or clean backfill
(with rocks or solid material no larger than 5/8 inch in diameter and no sharp objects)
placed below cables/conduits.
H A 12-inch layer of the same shading material above the directly buried
cables/conduits.
H If native backfill is completely free of foreign objects and rocks in excess of 8 inches
in diameter, shading with sand, 5/8-inch minus, or clean backfill can be reduced to 6
inches.
H The remaining trench shall be backfilled with soil that is free of rocks larger than 10
inches in diameter and foreign objects.
When PSE primary cables are installed in Schedule 40 grade or better conduit, you are
responsible for the following:
H Backfilling the trench with soil that is free of foreign objects and rocks larger than
10 inches in diameter. Bedding and shading of the conduit with sand, 5/8-inch minus,
or clean backfill is not required.
ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 4

36

PRIMARY LINE EXTENSIONS

Trench and backfill requirements for primary electric line extension trenches (with PSE gas)

You must provide a 12-inch layer of sand above and a 4-inch layer of sand bedding
below the utilities before backfilling (see Figure 21). If native backfill is completely free
of foreign objects and rocks in excess of 8 inches in diameter, sand shading over utilities
can be reduced to 6 inches after compaction.
You are responsible for the following:
H Completing backfill as soon as practical after facilities are placed and inspected.
H Carefully placing backfill to prevent damage or movement of the cables or conduit.
H Cost of damages to PSE facilities caused by improper backfill or compaction.
H Relocation costs due to change in grade or alignment.
CAUTION: Do not use a compactor directly over the power conduit(s) until at least
30 inches of backfill is in place, so that the compactor will not damage the cables or
conduit. Do not penetrate the soil deeper than 3 inches during compaction with a
backhoe compactor.

Vaults

PSE is responsible for furnishing and installing all primary vaults required for your
electric service.

Vault excavation procedure

1. Locate the vault according to PSEs work sketch drawing.

2. Determine a suitable place to put the spoils (at least 2 feet from the edge of the
excavation).
3. Excavate so the vault is in correct alignment with the trench and so that conduits for
primary voltage cables (if required) can be brought straight into the front half of
the vault.
4. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the transformer or junction box vault and
allow for easy installation and compaction (see Figures 22 through 24).
5. Remove debris and level the bottom of the excavation.
6. Prepare the bottom of the excavation so that the vault will rest on solid undisturbed
earth with a 6-inch base of crushed rock. This prevents vault settling.

CHAPTER 4

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PRIMARY LINE EXTENSIONS

37

PLAN VIEW

Service or secondary cable typically

enters either the back, or the back half
on the side of a vault.*

38I

24I

Customer
Provided

42I

6i0I

6i0I

2I
PSE to complete
conduit run

SIDE
VIEW

48I

Primary cable typically enters

either the front, or the front
half on the side of a vault.
* Approval from a PSE Representative required for vault entrance location.

6I
Crushed
Rock

3i6I

Figure 22 Padmount transformer vault excavation

PLAN VIEW

4I

6i0I

38I

6i0I

2I
Wire access hole

42I

48I

SIDE
VIEW

6I
Crushed
Rock

3i10I

Figure 23 Aboveground junction box vault excavation

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 4

38

PRIMARY LINE EXTENSIONS

Vault Wall
PSE Conduit

Customer's service wire

conduits may enter the
vault through mouse
holes or knockouts in
the unshaded area.
Do not enter conduits
through structural
concrete surfaces (vault
wall).

Knockouts

Figure 24 Location of customer conduit in PSE vaults

Vault location and access

Underground equipment must be readily accessible by workers and equipment during

construction and for future operation and maintenance. Workers should not have to climb
over or remove obstacles to gain access. Heavy construction equipment must be able to
get close enough to the excavation to place the vault in the hole. Consider the
underground equipments weight and the lifting angle and swinging radius of the boom
truck when choosing the underground equipments location. Remember that dump trucks
may need access if select fill is used for fill or if excavated material will be hauled away.
A clear and level working space is necessary for the operation and maintenance of
underground equipment. The location must allow room to operate a switch handle,
completely open a hinged steel door, or use a hotstick to install and operate equipment.
In no case shall clearances be less than those required by code from combustible and
noncombustible walls, bodies of water, fire escapes, etc.
The working space should be free from obstructions such as trees, shrubbery, poles,
buildings, retaining walls, structures, fences, fire hydrants, decorative screens, ditches,
streams, roadways, etc. Consider possible future structures and equipment which could
interfere with clearances and accessibility.
Vault backfill material

Backfill around vaults should consist of good compactable material such as clean earth
fill, crushed rock, or sand. No voids should remain between the vault walls and the sides
of the excavation.
Backfill beneath the vault shall be crushed rock, six inches deep, to stabilize the vault.
If the vault is located in a concrete drive or sidewalk, a felt joint is to be installed around
its perimeter.

CHAPTER 4

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

PRIMARY LINE EXTENSIONS

39

Continuous conduit systems

When PSEs design includes a continuous conduit system, PSE will supply conduit for
primary voltage cables.

Customer-supplied conduits
You may supply and install discontinuous primary conduit for construction convenience.
If you supply the conduit for primary voltage cable, it will be owned and maintained by
PSE and shall meet the following specifications:
H PVC electrical grade, Schedule 40 (or Schedule 80 if required in poor soil
conditions).
H Gray in color.
H 2-, 3-, 4-, or 6-inch diameters as specified on the work sketch.
H Conduit bends shall be long radius bends, 36-inch minimum radius.
H Meet requirements in ASTM F 512 and NEMA TC 2.

Terminating conduit at transformer

When installing the conduit, stop 2 feet short of the entrance into the wire access hole
located at the bottom of the minipad transformer handhole.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 4

40

PRIMARY LINE EXTENSIONS

CHAPTER 4

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

METER INSTALLATION

41

Chapter 5
Meter Installation
This chapter provides you with PSEs requirements for the metering equipment that you
must provide to hook up your new service. Please follow these requirements to avoid a
delay in your service hookup. If you have any questions about this information, call your
Customer Construction Services (CCS) Representative.

Service rating options

PSEs metering equipment requirements for single-family residential structures (not
apartments or condominiums) are based upon the following single-phase service ratings:
Voltage

Ampere Rating

120/240

200 A

120/240

400 A

120/240

over 400 A *

* If

you need a three-phase service, please contact your CCS Representative. Such services
require the approval of PSEs Meter Department, and are not covered in this handbook.

Responsibilities
Puget Sound Energy

PSE is responsible for installing the meter, service line, and current transformer (CT).
Customer

You are responsible for providing and installing all service entrance equipment
(including the meter base/socket and current transformer CT enclosure).

Meter bases/sockets
General requirements

The meter base/socket you purchase and install shall meet the following general
requirements:
H Be a ring-type socket that includes a screw-type, stainless steel, or aluminum meter
ring (snap-type rings must be stainless steel).
H Be Underwriters Laboratories (UL) approved.
H Be rated for exterior use and be rain-tight according to NEMA-3R.
H Have all unused openings tightly sealed from the inside of the socket.
H Be plumb and securely fastened to the supporting structure.
H Have a cover that is securely attached to the meter base/socket case.
NOTE: Meter base/socket and current transformer enclosures shall not be used as a
junction box.
ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 5

42

METER INSTALLATION

Meter base/socket location

For single-family residences and manufactured and mobile homes, you are required to
install your meter base/socket in a place that is accessible to PSE. All locations are
subject to approval by a PSE Representative. If you have questions regarding meter
locations, call your CCS Representative.
Meter bases/sockets and current transformer (CT) enclosures must be located:
H Outside.
H On the front one-third of your home closest to normal public access.
H In an area that is not subject to being fenced or walled in (such as patios, decks,
porches, breezeways, backyards, and carports).
H On a structure that is owned by you.
These locations allow PSE to:
H Read your meter in a cost-effective manner.
H Maintain your meter efficiently.
H Disconnect your service in case of fire.
Grounding requirements

All meter bases/sockets, enclosures, and conduit shall be bonded and grounded in
accordance with the NEC.

Clearance requirements for meter installations

The following clearances are required around all meter installations. It is your
responsibility to provide and maintain these clearances.
H The center of the meter shall be between 4 and 6 feet above finished grade
(except meter pedestals)5 feet is preferred.
H A working space of 36 inches wide by 36 inches deep (see Figure 25) is required
around the meter. This working space is to be kept clear of any obstructions including
landscaping.
H There shall be a minimum horizontal and vertical clearance of 10 inches between the
center of the electric meter and any obstruction (see Figure 25).
H If a recessed meter bases/socket is installed, a 10-inch clearance is required from the
meter to the closest portion of the wall (see Figure 26).
H If a flush or recessed meter base/socket is installed, the siding or finished surface of
the structure shall not overlap the cover of the meter base/socket.
H If a flush or recessed meter base/socket is installed, space must be left around the
locking tab for PSE to install a meter seal.
H Meter base/sockets may be recessed a maximum of 4 inches behind a finished exterior
surface.

CHAPTER 5

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

METER INSTALLATION

3i Min

43

18I Min

Working
Space

10I Min

3i Min

Top View

4i Min
6i Max.
5i Preferred

6I Min
6i Max.

3i Min

3i Min

Figure 25 Meter base/socket minimum clearances

10I Min

10I Min
4I
Max.

Figure 26 Recessed meter installation clearances

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 5

44

METER INSTALLATION

200 A services
Single-family residential

The 120/240 V, 200 A service is the most common service installed by PSE. Typically, it
is installed on homes with a living area of less than 2,500 square feet. However,
depending upon what type of equipment you are installing, you may want a larger
service. It is your responsibility to determine your electrical requirements and to notify
PSE of the size of service you would like. Refer to Chapter 1, Table 3, for service size
information.
Underground

In addition to the meter base/socket requirements earlier in this chapter, meter

bases/sockets for 200 A underground services shall:
H Be rated for 120/240 V and 200 A.
H Contain four meter jaws and one connection point for the neutral conductor.
H Be at least 4-1/4 inches deep, 11 inches wide, and 14 inches high.
H Accept 2-inch steel or 2-1/2-inch PVC conduit.
H Have lugs (electrical connectors) that are marked to accept 4/0 aluminum conductors.
NOTE: Use only the conduit knockouts on either side of the bottom of the meter

base/socket enclosure for PSEs service cable.

Overhead

In addition to the meter base/socket requirements earlier in this chapter, meter

base/sockets for 200 A overhead services shall:
H Be rated for 120/240 V and 200 A.
H Contain four meter jaws and one connection point for the neutral conductor.

Outbuildings (overhead or underground service)

Meter bases/sockets for 200 A (or less) services to single-family residential use
outbuildings (such as garages, shops, single-family wells, or noncommercial barns) must
meet all the requirements listed in this chapter for either underground or overhead
services.
NOTE: If outbuilding is used for a commercial operations please refer to PSEs Electric

Service Handbook, Commercial/Industrial and Multifamily Projects as you will have

additional requirements including customer-provided service conductor and a manual
bypass meter base/socket.

CHAPTER 5

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

METER INSTALLATION

45

Service Line
(PSE Provided)

11I Min

Meter socket must be

grounded according
to NEC

2I Rigid Steel or
21/2 I PVC Conduit

Meter socket must be

grounded according
to NEC

Neutral Lug

14I
Min

Alternate Neutral
Lug Position

Neutral Lug
Alternate Neutral
Lug Position

2I Rigid Steel or
21/2 I PVC Conduit

Customer Wire

Service Line
(PSE Provided)

UNDERGROUND

Customer Wire

OVERHEAD

Figure 27 Residential meter socket wiring diagrams

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 5

46

METER INSTALLATION

400 A Self Contained Services

The meter base/socket required for a 120/240 V, 400 A service is called a Class 320
meter base/socket (see Figures 28 and 29). It is larger than the 200 A meter base/socket,
but it is still a self-contained meter base/socket. It can be installed on residences where
the continuous current rating is 320 A or less.
NOTE: If your structure requires more than 320 A of continuous current, you are

required to install a CT service (refer to the 400 A current transformer (CT) services
section in this chapter).

Underground

In addition to the meter base/socket requirements listed earlier in this chapter, Class 320
meter bases/sockets for 400 A underground services shall:
H Be rated for 120/240 V and 320 A continuous current.
H Contain four meter jaws and one connection point for the neutral conductor.
H Contain a Class 320 manual block bypass (see Figure 28).
H Have lugs that will accept 350 MCM aluminum wire.
H Accept 3-inch steel or Schedule 40 or 80 conduit through a knockout in the bottom
left corner or center of the enclosure.
H Have at least an 8-1/2-inch clearance between the bottom of the lugs and the bottom
of the enclosure (see Figure 28).
NOTE: Meter base/socket
must be grounded per
NEC.

Bypass
Studs
Line Lug

81/2I
Min

Bypass Studs
LOAD
LUGS
Line Lug

Neutral Block
Customer
Wires

PSE's 4/0 or
350 Cable

3I Rigid Steel or PVC for

320 A Residential
(May be located in the bottom
corner opposite the neutral block
or center of the enclosure)

Figure 28 Typical arrangement of service conductors for underground class 320 meter base/socket

CHAPTER 5

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

METER INSTALLATION

Overhead

47

In addition to the meter base/socket requirements listed earlier in this chapter, Class 320
meter bases/sockets for 400 A overhead services shall:
H Be rated for 120/240 V and 320 A continuous current.
H Contain four meter jaws and one connection point for the neutral conductor
(see Figure 29).
H Contain a Class 320 manual block bypass.

Service Conductors

NOTE: Meter base/socket

must be grounded per NEC.

(CustomerInstalled)

NOTE: Line lugs shall be turned 180_

to allow proper insertion of wire and
to keep from blocking bypass area.

Line Lug
Bypass Studs

Load Lug

Line Lug
Bypass Studs

Load Lug

Neutral Block

Customer Wires

Figure 29 Typical arrangement of service conductors for overhead class 320 meter base/socket
Outbuildings (overhead or underground service)

The metering requirements for 400 A services to outbuildings are the same as the
metering requirements for 400 A services to single-family residential structures.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 5

48

METER INSTALLATION

400 A current transformer (CT) services

120/240 V, 400 A CT services are available at an additional charge. This service requires
a different meter base (see Figure 30). It also requires additional equipment (current
transformer (CT) enclosure, conduit, CT mounting bracket, etc.). The CT enclosure
must be located on the outside of the structure that it serves. Contact your CCS
Representative for more information.
NOTE: The CT enclosure cannot be used as a junction box or bus gutter.

9I

9I

20I
Min

20I
Min
To CT CAN 1

1 Min
Conduit Dia

Test Switch
Space

12I
Min

11I

4I Min

DIAGRAM A
120/240V SINGLEPHASE METER BASE/SOCKET
NOTE 1
No more than four 90_ bends
50 feet maximum length
No Condulets in the run

To CT CAN 1

Test Switch
Space

1 1/4 min
Conduit Dia

12I
Min

11I

41/2I Min

DIAGRAM B
THREEPHASE SINGLE METER BASE/SOCKET
Diagram B
120/208 V, 4Wire Wye
277/480 V, 4Wire Wye
All dimensions are minimum

Figure 30 Instrument-rated (CT) meter bases/sockets

CHAPTER 5

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

METER INSTALLATION

49

Services over 400 A

All 120/240 V services over 400 A (320 A continuous current) require CT metering.
Figure 31 shows a CT mounting base. Please contact your CCS Representative for more
information. Table 7 describes minimum CT enclosure dimensions.
Table 7 Current transformer (CT) enclosure dimensions (minimum)

Phase

Switch
Ampacity

No. of
Transformers

Width

Height

Depth

1*

400800

24I

48I

11I

3*

201800

36I

48I

11I

over 800

Enclosure with a sideopening singlehinged door is required when cabinet dimension is larger
than 24 in. x 48 in.
Services over 800 A require a switchboard designed to EUSERC specifications.
Services from 201800 A may be switchboard designed to EUSERC specifications.

3/4I

CT Mounting Bolts
(Typical 4 Places See Note 3)

5I

13/4I

11/2I

11/2I

13/8I

7/8I

N
1032 Machine
Screw & Washer
Drilled and
Tapped into Bus

81/8I

13/8I
13/4I
3/4I
Cable Term. Bolts
(Typical 4 Places See Note 3)

8I Min

Bus Marking CT
(Typical 2 Places)

Insulating Support (See Note 1)

2I Min
21/2I Max.

1/4I

31/2I

Insulating Barrier

EUSERC 328A SHOWN

NOTES:

1.

Insulated supports shall be rated for the serving voltage and have sufficient mechanical strength
for the application.

2.

Mounting base accepts bartype current transformers only.

3.

Two 1/2inch steel bolts shall be provided for each cable terminating position and each bolt shall
be furnished with a spring washer and a nut. The spring washer may be either a conetype
(belleville) or a splitring washer and a flat washer. Bolts shall be secured in place and spaced
as shown. All parts shall be plated to prevent corrosion.

Figure 31 Single-phase CT mounting base

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 5

50

METER INSTALLATION

CHAPTER 5

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

TEMPORARY SERVICES

51

Chapter 6
Temporary Services
What this chapter contains
In this chapter you will find answers to questions such as:
H What are the installation requirements for underground and overhead service?
H What are the trenching requirements?
H How do I locate existing underground utilities before I dig?
H How do I get my temporary service energized?

Definition

A temporary (temp) service is a means of supplying electricity to your site for less
than one year. Typically, a temporary service provides power for the construction phase
of your project, while provisions are being made for your permanent power system.
Temp service is provided underground or overhead depending on available PSE facilities.

Obtaining your temporary service from existing power facilities

The following information applies to your temporary service installation:
H Determine if you need overhead or underground service (see Preface, Figure 1).
H Obtain an electrical work permit.
H Order underground utility locate service by contacting the 811 Call Before You Dig
hotline two business days before digging.
H Prepare the job site and install your temp service equipment (service post, pedestal,
and meter base per illustrations found in this chapter).
H Obtain an electrical inspection approval of your temp service equipment (this is done
by you or your contractor).
H Call PSE to request that your temp service be connected and energized after your
electrical inspection is complete.
H Apply for permanent service.
H At your request, we will check your site to determine if engineering is required.
If you have any questions, please call Customer Construction Services (CCS) at
1-888-321-7779. For information on permanent services, please contact CCS.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 6

52 TEMPORARY SERVICES

Scheduling
Most temp services are connected to existing power facilities and engineering is not
required. In these cases temp services are typically energized 3 to 5 days after your
installation has passed inspection. Depending on complexity and work volume, time
frames will vary.

Customer charge for service

Charges vary due to the type of system we have in your area. Your CCS Representative
will explain current temp service fees.

Temporary meter base/socket requirements

You are required to provide a meter socket with the following specifications:
H A ring-type socket that includes a screw-type, stainless steel, or aluminum meter ring
(snap-type rings must be stainless steel).
H Rated 120/240 V
H Single-phase
H Minimum rating of 100 A
H Maximum rating of 200 A
H Four jaws
H Underwriters Laboratory (UL) approved

Temporary underground services

Temporary underground service is available in PSEs service area where the existing
power facilities are installed underground.
The process and cost of obtaining your temporary underground service can vary, depending
on the location of our existing facilities. If there is a power stubout, handhole, pedestal, or
transformer located on your property adjacent to our existing facilities (see Preface,
Figure 1), engineering may not be required. Simply install your temporary service facilities
(see Figure 30 and Figure 31), obtain an electrical inspection, and call PSE to connect your
temporary service.
Meter location
To properly locate your temporary meter pedestal, set the meter pedestal on your
property no more than 5 feet from the transformer, stubout, handhole, or pedestal.
Sometimes a distance greater than 5 feet is required such as when your home site is some
distance from our existing facilities and you want your pedestal close to where your
permanent service will be located. In this case, please contact a CCS Representative at
1-888-321-7779 for information on setting up a remote temporary underground service.

CHAPTER 6

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

TEMPORARY SERVICES

53

Trenching and excavation requirements

It is the customers responsibility to provide the trenching needed to connect to a power
stubout (shown in Figure 32). The cable you provide is to be sized according to the NEC
and have a minimum 24 inches of backfill coverage.
NOTE: A 4-foot-square excavation is required at the stubout to provide working room for
our personnel to splice your cable to ours.

If the connection point to PSE facilities is a handhole, pedestal, or transformer; trench up

to the nearest side and leave your wires exposed. If you discover any other conductors
while digging your trench, please leave them covered.
Remember to order underground utility locate service by contacting the 811 Call Before
You Dig hotline two business days before digging.
NOTE: Any trenching within 24 inches of existing underground facilities must be done

by hand.

Customer Post,
Meter Base,
and Panel
6i Maximum
5i Preferred
4i Minimum

PSE Stubout
Stubout conduit covering the
temporary connection
NOTE: 4ix4i work pit
required to allow working
room for the tools
necessary to connect
temporary service

26I

Customer owned temporary

service conductors

4i

4i

PSE Conductor

Figure 32 Trenching requirements for power stubout

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 6

54 TEMPORARY SERVICES

Underground temporary service installation process

The following items must be completed before PSE energizes your underground
temporary service:
1. Contact a CCS Representative at 1-888-321-7779, and request your temporary
underground service.
2. Obtain an electrical work permit from the inspecting agency.
3. Order underground utility locate service by contacting the 811 Call Before You
Dig hotline two business days before digging.
4. Install your meter pedestal and meter base/socket in the appropriate location (see
Figures 32 and 33).
5. Provide the appropriately sized conductor from your meter socket to PSEs
connection point. Please leave 5 feet of extra cable at the stubout or handhole,
and 10 extra feet at a transformer. Consult the NEC for the appropriate
cable sizes.
6. Obtain and pass an electrical inspection.
7. Trench up to and expose the PSE connection point at the stubout, handhole, or
transformer.
8. If trenching is provided, cover your cable except in the work pit where our
personnel will be splicing your cable to ours.
9. After the above items are complete, call CCS at 1-888-321-7779 and inform a
CCS Representative that your installation has been inspected and that you are
ready for your temporary service.
Figure 33 shows the standard temporary underground service installation that we
recommend. The dimensions shown are the minimum acceptable.
Please do not deviate from our installation standards without approval from your
CCS Representative. Doing so may extend the time frame for your service hookup.

CHAPTER 6

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

TEMPORARY SERVICES

55

1
Top of meter base shall not
be above top of structure
8
3

6i Maximum
5i Preferred
4i Minimum
5i
Max.

2i Min Cover

3i Min

Items Owned and Installed by Customer

1
2

Meter socket and distribution panel (up to

200 A, 120/240 V)

Ground wire, according to the NEC

Ground rod, according to the NEC

Service entrance conductors in accordance

with NEC

Items Owned and Installed by Puget Sound Energy

4I x 4I x 10i continuous single structure

Transformer, handhole, pedestal, or stubout

2I x 4I bracing (post should be braced

from two directions)

Meter

NOTE: Trench and backfill from meter base to transformer, handhole, pedestal, or stubout is customer provided.

Figure 33 Temporary underground service installation

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 6

56 TEMPORARY SERVICES

Temporary overhead services

Temporary overhead service is available anywhere in PSEs service area where the
existing electrical system is installed overhead.
The process and cost of obtaining your temp overhead service can vary depending on the
location of our existing facilities. The least complicated and cheapest way a temp service
can be installed is if a transformer is located on a pole alongside your property (see
Preface, Figure 2). If this is the case, engineering may not be required. All you have to
do is install your temp service equipment, have it inspected, and call Customer
Construction Services (CCS) at 1-888-321-7779 to order your service. Once the above
items are completed, your service will be connected within a few business days.
Meter location
Your temporary meter post should be located on your property and within 70 feet of the
PSE pole that will serve you. This limitation ensures that your temporary service pole
can withstand the weight of the conductor. If a distance greater than 70 feet is required,
or if PSEs pole is on the opposite side of the street, please call CCS for our review and
approval prior to construction. A taller, stouter temporary service post with additional
bracing could be required.
Service line path requirements
In addition to the meter post distance limitation mentioned above, please consider the
service line path requirements:
H The path that the service line will take should not cross property belonging to other
individuals.
H If the service line will pass through trees or brush, clear a path to allow our service
personnel to run the line and to allow the lines to hang without contacting trees or
limbs. Maintaining this clear path is the customers responsibility.
H The service line path should avoid areas where vehicular traffic will occur, unless
your temporary service post height is increased to provide adequate clearance
(see Figure 34).
Clearance requirements
The National Electric Code (NEC) and the National Electric Safety Code (NESC) have
established minimum clearance requirements to maintain safe heights for electrical
conductors over various terrains.
Figure 34 shows the clearance requirements for the types of terrain most commonly
encountered.
The NEC and NESC require the lowest point of a service conductor to be at least 12 feet
aboveground. The bottom of the drip loop must be a minimum of 10 feet above the
ground.
You are required to provide a point of attachment on your service pole that will allow
PSE to install the conductor and maintain the required clearances.
If you need further details, please consult the current issue of the NEC, or contact the
state or local electrical inspector for your area.
CHAPTER 6

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

TEMPORARY SERVICES

57

Service Line
(Utility Owned)

Temporary
Service
26i
171/2i
12i

10i

State
Highways

Streets, Alleys, County Roads,

Driveways, and Parking Areas

Residential
NonTraffic
Property

Figure 34 Minimum clearance requirements upon installation

Overhead temporary service installation process

The following items must be completed before we can energize your service:
1. Contact a CCS Representative and request your temporary overhead service.
2. Obtain an electrical work permit from the inspecting agency.
3. Install a meter pole and meter socket.
4. Obtain and pass an electrical inspection.
5. After these items are completed, call CCS and inform a CCS Representative at
1-888-321-7779 that your installation has been inspected and that you are ready
for temporary service.
Figure 35 shows the standard temporary overhead service installation that we
recommend. The dimensions shown are the minimum acceptable.
This installation shows a safe temporary service. Do not deviate from the installation
standards without approval from your CCS Representative. Doing so may extend the
time frame for your service hookup.

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 6

58 TEMPORARY SERVICES

Align service line between braces.

Maximum 70i in length without PSE approval.

45_

1
2

10i Min
to drip
loop
12i
Min

TOP VIEW OF STUD AND BRACES

6i Maximum
5i Preferred
4i Minimum

Note that the service lines extend at a

45_ angle from within the braces.

4
5

24I Min

Ground
Line

8i Min

Items Owned and Installed by Customer

1

4I x 4I x 16i or 2I x 10I x 16i Minimum, continuous single structure

Meter socket & distribution panel (up to 200 A, 120/240 V)

Items Owned and Installed

by Puget Sound Energy
8
9

Ground wire, according to the NEC

Ground rod, according to the NEC

2I x 4I Brace (two required)

Service entrance conductors - 18I out of weatherhead minimum

Insulated clevis (point of attachment)

Service line
Meter

Figure 35 Temporary overhead service installation

CHAPTER 6

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

DISCONNECTION AND MODIFICATION OF SERVICE

59

Chapter 7
Disconnection and Modification of Service
There may be a time when your electric service needs to be modified. You may wish to
have your service disconnected, reconnected, moved from its current location, relocated,
or simply de-energized. This may involve lengthening, shortening, transferring, or
rerouting the existing service.

Disconnection of your meter

If you need the power disconnected to work on your side of the meter, without actually
removing the wire from the insulator, PSE will perform a simple disconnect/reconnect
service for you.
PSE defines a disconnection as the disconnection or reconnection of single-phase,
self-contained meters or service lines at the meter base or weatherhead for the
convenience of the customer.
If the wire has to be removed, relocated, or otherwise manipulated as this becomes a
modified service (refer to the Modified services section below). Check with your CCS
Representative to verify any charges that you may incur.

Modified services
PSE classifies work done on a service as a modified service when a customer requests
a change in their secondary service that alters its current point of delivery or location to a
new point of delivery without requiring the replacement of the entire service entrance
conductor.
A modified service still must meet all the new service installation requirements. You are
responsible for equipment from the meter socket into your building.
An electrical work permit must be present on your property for all work done on the
customer side of the meter. You must apply for the permit before the work is started.
After the work is completed, your local government agency must inspect the work before
PSE can energize the service.
We know at times the electrical inspection is not completed or feasible by the time we
arrive to reconnect your service. For modified services, if the permit is present and the
work is completed, but the inspection has not been done, the service may still be
energized by PSE if the work looks safe, clean, and completed. The inspection can take
place the following day.
The customer requesting a modified service shall be required to pay PSE the costs of
altering, transferring, or extending the existing electric service to the new point of
delivery or location.
Modified service requirements can vary depending on the scope of the change
(see Table 8).

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

CHAPTER 7

60

DISCONNECTION AND MODIFICATION OF SERVICE

Table 8 Example of overhead and underground modified service

Customer Request

PSE and Customer Responsibilities

Overhead Modified Service

Your electric meter base is
being replaced with a new
meter base, and will be located
a few feet away from where old
meter base was. You will also
replace the existing mast and
weatherhead.

H Notify your CCS Representative if you are changing

panel amperage rating or increasing the connected
load within your building.
H You or your electrician must arrange for PSE to remove
the wire from the point of attachment and make
permanent connection to the new weatherhead. You
must give PSE adequate notice of your intentions,
typically 5 to 10 working days prior to needing your
service energized.
H An electrical permit must be present and visible prior to
PSE energizing your service.

Underground Modified Service

Your mobile home is being
relocated and you need to
move your meter pedestal
closer to the new location. Or,
you are remodeling and have to
change the electrical panel
and/or meter location.

H Notify your CCS Representative if you are increasing

the load or capacity of your meter panel.
H You are responsible for digging to the new pedestal
location.
H You must expose PSEs wire or conduit at the old
pedestal location. This is where your new trench will
start.
H A new pedestal installation permit must be present and
visible on-site prior to calling PSE to perform the work.
You must give PSE 5 to 10 working days notice prior to
calling PSE to perform the work.

CHAPTER 7

ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

GLOSSARY

61

Glossary
Approved - Acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.
Backfill - Native soil or soil brought in from another area, free from sharp objects, rocks,
scrap building material, and corrosive material.
Clearance - A set distance between two objects.
Conduit - A listed or approved wireway with a smooth interior surface to permit easy
drawing-in of the electrical conductors. A conduit may be metallic or nonmetallic,
depending on its usage, in accordance with codes and Puget Sound Energy Standards.
Current Transformer (CT) Enclosure - A sealable cabinet designed for surface or flush
mounting, and provided with a frame or trim in which doors or removable covers are
hung.
Customer Construction Services (CCS) Representative - The designated representative
of Puget Sound Energy, responsible for design and/or coordination of new or revised
services to PSE customers. The CCS Representative responds to inquiries on policies,
standards, practices, rates, and energy utilization.
Demand - The maximum average kilowatt load used by the customer for a specific
period of time during the billing period.
Direct Burial - The installation of electrical conductors in a trench, without the use of
conduit.
Drip Loop - A loop formed in overhead secondary conductors at the weatherhead to
prevent water from entering into the service entrance conduit and equipment.
EUSERC - Electrical Utility Service Equipment Requirements Committee
Ground Rod - A ground electrode made up of a rod not less than 8i in length and 5/8I in
diameter, typically made of zinc or copper coated steel. More information on ground rods
is available in the National Electric Code.
Guy - Cable or brace used to relieve the strain of overhead conductors on masts and
poles.
Locked Rotor Current - Locked rotor current is associated with the amount of current
drawn from your electric service necessary to start an electric motor. Typically, a motor
requires more current for the rotor to transition from being stationary or stopped, to
spinning. Once the rotor of a motor is spinning, the current needed to power the motor is
typically reduced. Locked rotor current is sometimes referred to as Locked Rotor
Amperes, In-Rush Current, or Starting Current. Not all motorized devices have a unique
starting current.
Manual Block Bypass (Circuit-Closing Block) - A provision for paralleling the meter
circuit, allowing the meter to be removed without interrupting service to the customer.
Meter Jaw - A spring-loaded receptacle installed inside a meter socket, interfacing the
terminals of the meter to the source and load conductors of the service.
ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

62

GLOSSARY

Meter Loop - Any provision in which an electrical meter may be installed. Does not
include the service disconnect device.
Meter Pole - A pole which supports the metering equipment owned and maintained by
the customer.
Meter Base/Socket - The mounting device consisting of meter jaws, connectors, and
enclosure for accommodating socket-type meters. The mounting device may be either a
single socket or a trough to accommodate more than one mounting unit.
Metering Equipment - Any equipment associated with measuring electric energy.
Municipal or State Inspector - The qualified representative of a city or the
Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, who has been authorized by
governmental agencies to inspect electrical service installations on their behalf.
NEC - National Electrical Code
NESC - National Electrical Safety Code
Neutral - The grounded conductor in a single-phase, three-wire or three-phase, four-wire
system. The service conductor that is at zero potential to ground.
Point of Attachment (Point of Service) - The point at which Puget Sound Energys
service conductors are attached to the customers premises by an approved insulated
clevis.
Point of Delivery - The connection point of the meter base, on the customers premises,
where Puget Sound Energys circuit and the customers system are interconnected.
Primary Voltage - The higher voltage, before transformation, used to distribute electrical
energy through neighborhoods and local areas. Normally in excess of 600 V.
RCW - Revised Code of Washington
Seal - The locking device used to secure meter and/or service entrance equipment to
assure safety and security for the unit.
Secondary Voltage- The lower voltage, after transformation, used to supply the customer
with electrical energy. Normally less than 600 V.
Self-Contained - In reference to meter sockets: a device designed and rated to
continuously carry the entire capacity of the service entrance equipment through the
meter.
Service Entrance Conductors - Those conductors which extend between the customers
load center and point of delivery.
Service Entrance Equipment - Service conduit, conductors, weatherhead, meter base,
enclosures, service disconnect, and load center.
Service Mast - The conduit above the meter used to provide mechanical protection for
the service conductors and to support the service drop from Puget Sound Energys
system.
Temporary Service - An electrical service installed by Puget Sound Energy to provide
power to a customer on a temporary basis (12 months or less).
UL - (Underwriters Laboratories) A nationally recognized test laboratory which lists
materials it has tested and accepted.
UULC - Utilities Underground Location Center
WAC - Washington Administrative Code
ELECTRIC SERVICE HANDBOOK/SINGLEFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

Notes

Notes