What is the minimum clearance required between service drops and windows designed to open?

The minimum clearance required between service drops and windows designed to open is three feet. This regulation is in place primarily for safety reasons. Service drops, which are overhead power lines that supply electricity to buildings, carry high voltage and can pose significant hazards if not adequately distanced from accessible areas such as windows.

When windows are designed to open, maintaining a three-foot clearance helps prevent accidental contact with the service drop, which could lead to electrical shock or injury. It also provides enough space for individuals using the window to avoid potential hazards when opening or closing it. In many electrical codes and safety standards, adhering to this distance helps protect both residential and commercial properties from electrical dangers as well as ensures safe operation of windows for occupants.