THE SHORT ANSWER
FPL says Tier 2 and Tier 3 systems require a visible-load-break manual disconnect adjacent to the FPL meter socket, readily accessible to the utility and lockable open with one FPL padlock. [1]
Find the utility meter first
Photograph the meter area from the ground and note gates, fences, landscaping, gas equipment and walking paths. Do not open electrical equipment. A designer needs the actual service location; placing a disconnect on the garage wall in a generic drawing does not prove it meets the utility’s adjacency and access requirements.
Reserve workable wall space
The planned location has to work with clearances, wiring routes and the rest of the equipment. Ask whether a future gate, screen or shrub could obstruct utility access. A neat elevation drawing should show the meter and disconnect together instead of leaving the field crew to improvise after permits are issued.
Confirm the equipment function
Request the make, model and rating of the proposed disconnect and how it satisfies the visible-load-break and lock-open requirements. This device is part of interconnection, not a homeowner emergency instruction. The operating procedure must come from the installed labels and project handoff; do not experiment with switching equipment before authorization.
Coordinate with roof and battery work
A battery, service upgrade or roof-related conduit change can alter the electrical layout. Recheck the disconnect position whenever the one-line diagram changes. A revision that preserves panel count may still affect the service equipment and require an updated utility or permit drawing.
Inspect the completed location
Before closing the project, compare the installed equipment with the approved layout and FPL status. Photograph labels without blocking access. If FPL identifies a correction, keep the exact notice and responsible party. Origin Direct can review the location during proposal planning, but final acceptance belongs to the utility and jurisdiction.
Before your next conversation
- Photograph the FPL meter surroundings safely.
- Show the disconnect on the final elevation and one-line.
- Keep access and lockability unobstructed.
Primary sources
- FPL: Net Metering FAQs
Primary reference checked September 9, 2026. Confirm current requirements with the named utility, manufacturer or authority for your property.
Planning examples and questions are Origin’s editorial guidance, not a property-specific diagnosis, engineering design, tax determination or promise of savings. Manufacturer and utility references do not imply an affiliation with Origin.
Make the decision specific to your home.
Have Origin review the service-equipment layout before the permit and interconnection packages diverge.
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