Cabinetry over panel/meter base combo?

[MatBirch]

Curious if I can build a bank of cabinets over/around my panel and meter base. I’ve seen it done with just a panel, but wondering if it’s ok with the meter base. It is a “Smart Meter” so nobody comes around to read it, but I’d obviously confirm that... I can make sure there is plenty of clearance in front once the door is opened. I can even make the door a screen of some type for airflow if needed.
This is on our covered porch...

 

[larry4406]

I recall something about the Code reserving the horizontal foot print of the panel upwards a minimum distance of 6-7’ or the ceiling whichever is less. Sparkies will be along soon to clarify.

I had a house where the ductwork was over the panel. Had to move the ductwork forward of the panel’s upward projection.

 

[Bert_]

I can almost guarantee the power company will say no. Can you get away with it? Maybe if the Poco never has to work in it.

 

[Terry D]

Im with Bert, I would say no

 

[wyliesdiesels]

There are NEC clearance requirements above the panel but i would check with PoCo first...

 

[MatBirch]

Waiting to hear back from the PoCo, to see what they say. The project is happening very slowly, so I may just test the theory and lean something in front of it for a couple months and see if anybody yells at me.
My thoughts are just a simple screen that would be open top and bottom. Probably just some rare earth magnets or something to pop it off for any servicing. If I had to, I suppose I could cut a porthole type window over the meter itself, so it's visible and readable.

 

[Norcal]

People have built a doghouse over the meter or meter/main panel, not sure how code complaint it is, but personally never cared for it.

 

[Viper98912]

I would personally stay away from it, just because I normally don't like "hanging out" around an entrance like that where there's a lot of amperage coming in.

Nonetheless, the PoCo will probably have a problem with it - be aware of a potential fine, plus they will purposely destroy it to bits when they come out (ever see what firefighters do to vehicles to park in front of hydrants?)

It's not just to read the meter (which doesn't happen anymore), but it's to possibly change out the meter when the next greatest meter invention comes out and they replace them (or your meter just goes bad? had that once with a gas meter)

Also, don't forget firefighters come and cut the power to your place in the event they need to hose it down; last thing you want is for them having to "figure out" how to get to your panel in an emergency