Adding a new Section 250-52 (9): (Grounding Electrode System for New and Existing Construction) of Article 250 (Grounding and Bonding) of the Electrical Code to read as follows:
250-52 (9) Grounding Electrode System for New and Existing Construction
(A) New Construction
In addition to the requirements of Section 250-52, one or more copper or non-ferrous rods, as described in Table 250.66, shall be placed along the bottom of a concrete foundation, or in a building foundation trench, tensioned and supported in such a manner that it will not be less than 3 inches from the bottom or sides of the foundation, with one end terminating twelve inches (12") above the foundation sill plate or finished floor, beneath or adjacent to the main service switch panel.
Where building pier footings are used instead of a continuous foundation, service grounding shall be accomplished by fusion welding of the ground conductor to a vertical electrode which reached to within three inches (3") of the bottom of the piers.
All grounding conductors shall be electrically bonded together and connected to the property's water system and electrical service equipment.
(B) Existing Construction
Any change, alteration or remodeling of existing electrical service equipment shall require a ground electrode to be provided in accordance with Table 250-66.
The driven ground electrodes may be galvanized pipe, not less than three-quarter inch pipe size, or copper-coated rod, not less than five-eighths of an inch (5/8") in diameter; driven vertically eight feet (8') or more into the ground.
Whenever more than one ground electrode is required, they shall be not less than six feet (6') apart from each other, or from any other electrode, including those used for single circuits, radio, telephone, lighting rods or any other purpose.
Where more than one electrode is required, they shall be bonded together in the same manner and with the same material as specified for pipe rod electrodes. Driven electrodes shall be of one piece. Such pipes or rods should have clean metal surfaces and shall not be covered with paint, enamel, or other non-conducting materials.
(C) Adding a new subsection (D) to Section 300-1 (Scope) of Article 300 (Wiring Methods) of the
Electrical Code to read as follows:
Installation Requirements.
All wiring installed in or on buildings or structures, other than residential or residential accessory buildings, shall be in a metal protected raceway or cable wiring system; provided, however, that equivalent installations may be authorized when requested in writing and approved in advance by the Building Official.