Can I run PVC conduit (UF rated) without burying it to run electrical wire to a new outdoor outlet?

Question

I will be installing a new outdoor GFCI outlet. I plan to use PVC conduit (UF rated) to run 12g wire for 11 ft. Will it meet electrical standards if I don't bury the PVC conduit? It will run on top of cement.

Answer 1

We just had to do some electrical work like that. It's best to check your local codes because apparently they vary.

We went to our electric company's local payment office and they gave us a very comprehensive guide about what will meet codes and what will violate them.

One thing I learned that seems pretty standard no matter where you live: if you don't do it right the first time they will find out and will make you fix it until it complies with their rules.

Answer 2

that all depends on whether you are talking about the side of your building or like over a trafficked area.  in the area with traffic, as a sidewalk or driveway no it must meet burial depth requirements of the NEC.  if it is on the house the national electric code says you don't have to bury it but as soon as it is below grade level you must follow burial depth requirements.

Also note that in use weather proof covers are required for outlets outside; no more of the swinging door that stay open when a plug is in.

I hope this helps if you have q's please IM

Answer 3

See Sections .10 & .12 in the corresponding NEC Articles for Uses Permitted & Uses Not Permitted for Electrical Raceways (Chapter 3); then check with your local Inspector.

When buried, according to 2005 NEC Table 300.5, Rigid Non-metallic Conduit must be installed with a "cover" depth of 18" (measured from the top of the raceway to grade level); Rigid Metal Conduit must have 6" of cover (see Article 358.10 &.12 for uses permitted and not permitted for EMT, or "thin-wall" conduit).

Any RNC exposed to the sun must be listed and labeled as "Sunlight Resistant", or "Approved for exposure to UV Rays"; when used as A MEANS OF PROTECTION for the enclosed conductors, it must be "Schedule 80". When metallic elbows are installed with RNC, they must be grounded when the highest part of the elbow is less than 18" below grade level.

RNC must always have an equipment grounding conductor installed with and properly sized for the circuit conductors.



*** What is “UF” rated conduit? Type UF Cable is approved for Direct Burial, I have never seen “UF Rated” conduit of any type.

Answer 4

It's not in compliance with my local building codes.  If you put it inside steel conduit it would be, but not PVC.

Answer 5

what the elctrical inspector was trying to say is,

yes, but you have to use schedule 80 pvc, only difference between it and schedule 40 is the thickness, but just remember one thing, its your house