How does the NEC 2023 define “in sight from” for electrical equipment?

110.29 – In Sight From 

Overview

The term “in sight from” appears in number of locations throughout the NEC. For example, if a transformer is located within 50 feet from the disconnecting means, and is visible from the disconnecting means, it is considered to be “in sight from” the disconnecting means. It is important to understand what is meant by “in sight from”, as it dictates the requirements for associated equipment listing and labeling. The 2023 NEC has included new Section 110.29 to provide clear guidance on the phrase, and how to properly apply it. 

Applying the 2023 Code 

The terms “in sight from,” “within sight from,” or “within sight of” are not new to the NEC. Previously these terms were defined solely in Article 100. This went against the NEC style manual, however, as it is not permissible to include new requirements within definitions in The Code. The 2023 NEC remedied this misalignment by creating a new Section 110.29 that specifically addresses the requirements for the phrases “in sight from,” “within sight from,” and “within sight of.” This new section specifies that the distance between two objects “in sight from,” “within sight from,” or “within sight of” one another, must be within 50 feet distance and must visible from each other. The definition of “in sight from” still exists in Article 100, and still specifies a distance of 50 feet between the equipment, and still specifies they must be visible. There is an information note in the definition that points to Section 110.29 for more information, however. 

What’s New for the 2023 NEC? 

2020 NEC 

In the 2020 NEC Section 110.29 did not exist 

2023 NEC 

In the 2023 NEC Section 110.29 now read as follows:

110.29 In Sight From (Within Sight From, Within Sight).

Where this Code specifies that one equipment shall be “in sight from,” “within sight from,” or “within sight of” another equipment, the specified equipment shall be visible and not more than 15 m (50 ft) distant from the other.