National Electrical Code Summary: Article 80, Administration and Enforcement.

To be able to work effectively with the NEC, you must understand the philosophy behind it. This is the information NEC Article 80 provides. NEC Article 80 is new to the Code, beginning with the 2002 revision. Formerly, the NEC started with Article 90.

NEC 80.1 addresses the scope of the NEC, listing the five functions. In a nutshell, they are:

• Inspection
• Investigation
• Review (of drawings and specifications)
• Implementation (everything from design through maintenance)
• Regulation

NEC 80.2 gives definitions related to administration and enforcement. Do not confuse this with the definitions in Article 100.

NEC 80.3, 80.5, and 80.7 are pretty much for the lawyers.

NEC 80.9 addresses how the Code applies to:

• New installations
• Existing installations
• Additions, alterations, or repairs

NEC 80.11 basically bars new construction from occupancy if there is a Code violation and grandfathers existing structures under certain conditions (mostly that there is no hazard to life or property).

NEC 80.13 defines who has authority to administer the code and what that authority entails. With 16 major points, 80.13 covers a lot of ground. It codifies what was previously "understood."

NEC 80.15 lays out the bylaws for an electrical board, which may be established by any municipality.

NEC 80.17 requires the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to retain records.

NEC 80.19 addresses permits and approvals, quite extensively.

NEC 80.23 provides rules for notices of violations and penalties.

NEC 80.25 provides rules for connecting to the electrical supply.

NEC 80.27 describes the qualifications for being an electrical inspector.

NEC 80.29, 80.31, 80.33, and 80.35 are for the lawyers.