Full Text
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS/BUILDING INSPECTION DIVISION 435 RYMAN STREET / MISSOULA, MT 59802-4297 / OFFICE (406) 552-6040 / FAX (406) 552-6053 To: All Contractors From: Don Verrue (Building Official) and Tim Netzley (Electrical Inspector) Date: April 17, 2009 Subject: Requirement of Ufer Grounds for all new construction and additions Beginning June 1, 2009 we will be requiring Ufer grounds for all new construction that involve a new electrical service or service change. As the NEC 2005 revision to include 'concrete encased electrodes' (250.50, 250.52(A)(3)) states, 'All grounding electrodes', to create a 'grounding electrode system', will be bonded together. Since we use rebar in our foundations, this must be included. In past versions it was allowable but is now required. The building inspectors who inspect footings and foundations will note the presence of the Ufer ground. A separate inspection will not be required. However, these inspections will fail without the Ufer grounds. Ufers that are cut off or forgotten will require the concrete to be chipped out and reattached in an acceptable manner. The only exception to the requirement is found under section 250.50 where existing buildings or structures are to be grounded by other approved methods.