What is the required vertical clearance for service-drop cables above pedestrian-accessed areas?

The required vertical clearance for service-drop cables above pedestrian-accessed areas is 10 feet. This requirement ensures safety for individuals walking beneath the cables, providing sufficient height to prevent accidental contact. The National Electrical Code (NEC) establishes these standards to help reduce the risk of electric shock or injury from overhead wiring, recognizing that pedestrian areas may have people of varying heights and activities that could bring them close to the overhead infrastructure.

While options that suggest lower clearances might seem adequate, they do not offer the necessary margin of safety. Similarly, higher clearances, while potentially safer, may not be practical or necessary for pedestrian pathways. The specification of 10 feet strikes an appropriate balance between safety, functionality, and practicality.