The missing word in the sentence is “installation” :

“Where required, drawings for feeder installations must be submitted before installation.”

In NEC terminology, this comes from the idea that, if the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) requires it, a diagram or drawing of the feeder must be provided prior to the installation of the feeders.

So the completed statement is:

“Where required, drawings for feeder installations must be submitted before installation.”

Context in the Code

The wording reflects the requirement that feeder diagrams be reviewed and approved before the work is actually installed , not afterward. This helps the AHJ verify:

  • Feeder sizes and conductor types
  • Calculated loads and demand factors
  • Areas served by each feeder

All of that must be shown on the diagram and submitted prior to the installation of the feeders when the AHJ requires it.

Quick Example

An engineer plans a new panelboard and associated feeders in a commercial building.
If the city’s electrical inspector requires it, the contractor must submit feeder drawings and load calculations before installing any feeder conductors so the inspector can confirm compliance first.