Single-Family
Most new electric service installed in the City is underground. Residential services generally originate from a pedestal, transformer or overhead/underground riser pole in the back or front yard. Installation involves trenching an underground cable, at a depth of approximately 30 inches, from the source of power to the electric meter pedestal. The City will, in most cases, trench along the side lot line to avoid future conflicts with home “build outs” such decks, room additions and patios.
New residential single family homes built in St. Charles, particularly those associated with larger subdivisions, are generally all serviced with an underground electric cable supplying 120 / 240 v. AC. The homeowner is billed to reimburse the City for the actual installation costs incurred. Some situations may increase this cost, such as a long service run, 400 amp service, or unusual terrain conditions.
To initiate a request for electric service, download the application in the box to the right and return it with the appropriate paperwork to the Electric Division, 2 E. Main Street, for processing and determination of charges. The Electric Division’s Operating Area will inspect electrical facilities installed by the homeowner. If the facilities are acceptable and meet with the appropriate NEC (National Electrical Code) requirements and city ordinances, a crew will be dispatched to install the service. In most cases, the buried electrical distribution system, including the transformers, pedestals, and associated cabling, is installed on an easement located in front of homes, generally several feet beyond the sidewalk. The above-ground facilities are positioned close to the side lot line. Shrubs may be planted to shield the equipment from view as long as an 8-ft. front clearance, and 3-ft. back and side clearance is maintained.
Multi-Family
New residential multi-family homes built in St. Charles are generally serviced with an underground electric cable supplying 120/240 v. AC. The city electric utility will bury the cable in a 3” PVC conduit approximately 30 inches deep. The city code requires all new multi-family residential electric services to have a minimum panel board rating of 100 amps. so that there is an adequate supply of power to handle most electrical needs. The city’s charge for installing the buried electric service is usually incorporated in the cost estimate given to the developer for installing the main distribution system into the area. This charge is reviewed every year and adjustments are made to reflect changes in labor rates and material costs.
The same application form may be used to initiate a request for multi-family residential electric service as referenced above. One application must be submitted for each meter. The Electric Division’s Operating Area will inspect the electrical facilities installed by the developer. If the facilities are acceptable and meet with the appropriate NEC (National Electrical Code) requirements, a crew will be dispatched to install the service. In most cases, the buried electrical distribution system, including the transformers, pedestals and associated cabling, is installed on an easement located in front of the multi-family unit, generally several feet beyond the sidewalk. The above-ground facilities are positioned close to the side lot line. Shrubs may be planted to shield the equipment from view, although an 8-foot clearance in front and 3-foot clearance around the back and sides must be maintained.
