NEC · 2020 National Electrical Code
§408.36 · Overcurrent protection
Effective in NEC 2020 · NEC 2023 NW Indiana.
Plain-English explainer
408.36 (overcurrent protection): every panelboard is protected by an overcurrent device whose rating does not exceed the panelboard rating; a panelboard used as service equipment with 6+ disconnects follows Part III of Article 230.
Why inspectors flag this
A breaker whose rating exceeds the panelboard bus rating is a common 408.36 red-tag; the drafter lifts the rule so the panel schedule carries the right overcurrent device.
As quoted in the code: Every panelboard is protected by an overcurrent device whose rating does not exceed the panelboard rating; a panelboard used as service equipment with 6 or more disconnects is treated per Part III of Article 230.
See all codes that cite this trade
Browse the full National Electrical Code index for one place to read every section the drafter is allowed to quote. See all codes →
See pricing
See every code, every jurisdiction — without the binder.
Trussmark turns job-site photos and voice notes into code-cited permit drafts the inspector can verify on the spot. Pick the plan that fits your shop and we will size the rest with you. Already cited this code in NEC 2020? Drop your email and we'll size the rest of the permit draft for you. See pricing →
See pricing