In residential properties, what is the minimum vertical clearance for service-drop cables?

The correct answer is 12 feet. In residential properties, service-drop cables—often the electrical wires connecting the utility pole to the home—must maintain a certain vertical clearance to ensure safety and compliance with electrical codes. This height is designed to prevent accidental contact from people, vehicles, or equipment, particularly in areas where there may be pedestrian traffic or when vehicles are parked.

Having a vertical clearance of 12 feet helps to avoid potential hazards, such as electrical shock or outages caused by low-hanging cables. It also accommodates the potential movement of objects underneath, ensuring that the lines remain unobstructed and reducing the risk of damage.

In contrast, options like 8 feet and 10 feet would not provide sufficient clearance, particularly for standard vehicles, which typically require more space above them. Meanwhile, while 15 feet would offer even more clearance, it exceeds the minimum requirement necessary for safe operation, thus making 12 feet the appropriate standard in most residential settings.