What is the minimum cover requirement for direct burial Type UF cable installed outdoors that supplies a 120V, 30A circuit?

The minimum cover requirement for direct burial Type UF cable installed outdoors that supplies a 120V, 30A circuit is 24 inches. This requirement is outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC), which establishes safety standards for electrical installations.

Type UF (underground feeder) cable is designed specifically for installation underground, where it can be subject to various environmental conditions. The covering requirement is in place to ensure that the cable is adequately protected from physical damage, moisture, and other potential hazards.

For a direct burial installation, the NEC specifies that the minimum burial depth for UF cables is typically 24 inches when located under lawn and garden areas. This depth helps prevent accidental strikes with gardening tools and reduces the risk of environmental factors that could compromise the insulation of the cable. Adequate burial depth also aids in protecting the cable from issues related to frost, soil movement, and other underground disturbances.

It's important to follow these guidelines to ensure safety and compliance with electrical codes. Therefore, choosing a lesser depth would not provide the necessary protection, while opting for a greater depth than 24 inches, while still permissible, would not reflect the minimum requirement established by the NEC for this specific situation.