Okay, let's break down your options for the 400A service and sub-panel distribution for your shop and future house. This is a common scenario, and there are some code-compliant and best-practice ways to approach it.

Understanding the Basics



Service Entrance

This is the point where power enters your property from the utility (POCO).

Service Disconnect

A main disconnect (usually a breaker or fused disconnect) is required to shut off all power to your building(s). It must be readily accessible and located either outside or inside nearest the point of entrance of the service conductors.

Troughs (Gutters)

Metal enclosures (raceways) used to contain and protect conductors where you have multiple taps or need to change direction.

Taps

Short conductors that branch off from a larger feeder or service conductor. Tap rules are very specific in the NEC regarding length, ampacity, and overcurrent protection.

Sub-panels

Panels fed from the main service or a feeder, providing overcurrent protection for branch circuits.

Analyzing Your Options (with Code Considerations - NEC 2023)

Let's address each of your options, point out the potential code issues, and offer recommendations.

Option 1: Meter > 400A Fused Exterior Disconnect > Trough, then taps to the two shop 200A interior panels and an exterior tap about 60 feet or so to the home > trough > two 200A exterior disconnects > two interior 200 Panels. Concerns



Tap Rules

The 60-foot tap to the house becomes problematic. The NEC has strict tap rules. The primary concern is overcurrent protection. A 60-foot tap to the house would likely violate the length restrictions unless the tap conductors are sized to carry the entire 400A load, which defeats the purpose of having smaller panels in the house. NEC 240.21 covers tap rules.

Exterior Trough Exposure

An external trough is subject to weather and damage.

Verdict

This is likely NOT code-compliant due to the tap rules for the long run to the house.

Option 2: Meter > trough > tap to two shop exterior disconnects and exterior tap to house..... (not sure about the disconnects being after the trough and taps though?) Concerns



No Main Disconnect

This violates the requirement for a main service disconnect. You must have a way to kill all power to the building near the point of entry of the service conductors.

Tap Rules (Again)

The 60-foot tap to the house is still a problem.

Disconnect Placement

You also must have disconnects at the house near the point of entry as well.

Verdict

This is NOT code-compliant due to the lack of a main service disconnect and the tap rule violations.

Option 3: Meter lugs x3 to 2 shop disconnects and ext tap to home..... ( not sure about this one either) Concerns



No Main Disconnect

Just like Option 2, you are missing a main service disconnect. This is a critical safety requirement.

Meter Socket Listing

Meter sockets are rarely (if ever) listed for multiple load-side conductors. You cannot simply land three sets of conductors directly on the meter lugs unless the meter base is specifically listed for that purpose.

Tap Rules

The 60-foot tap to the house is still a problem.

Verdict

This is NOT code-compliant due to the lack of a main disconnect, improper use of the meter socket, and tap rule violations.

Recommended Approach (Code-Compliant and Practical)

Here's a method that addresses the requirements and provides flexibility:1.

Meter

Standard POCO-approved meter socket.2.

400A Main Disconnect

Install a 400A fused disconnect immediately after the meter. This is your main service disconnect. It can be mounted on the exterior of the building, near the meter. This is mandatory.3.

Trough

Run conductors from the load side of the 400A disconnect into a properly sized trough mounted inside the shop or directly behind the main disconnect. You need to size the trough according to NEC 314.28 to accommodate the conductors and splices/taps.
4.

Shop Panel Feeds

From the trough, tap to your two 200A panels inside the shop. Use properly sized conductors and overcurrent protection (200A breakers or fuses) at the point of the tap in the trough. These taps should comply with the tap rules in NEC 240.21.
5.

House Feeder

From the same trough, run a feeder to a separate 200A or 400A (depending on your calculations for the house) disconnect located on the exterior of the shop building or in the immediate vicinity. This is your sub-panel feeder to the house. It needs to be sized according to the load calculation for the house and protected by a 200A or 400A breaker in the trough.6.

Underground Run

From the disconnect, run the feeder underground to the house.7.

House Disconnects

At the house, install another 200A or 400A disconnect (matching the feeder breaker) near the point of entry of the feeder conductors into the house. This is your main disconnect for the house.8.

House Panels

From the house disconnect, feed your two 200A panels in the house. You may need another trough at the house to facilitate this split.

Key Code Points



Service Disconnect

NEC 230.70 requires a readily accessible service disconnect.

Feeder Taps

NEC 240.21 governs tap rules. Pay very close attention to the length requirements and the overcurrent protection requirements for tap conductors.

Conductor Sizing

NEC 310 provides tables for ampacity of conductors. Size conductors based on the load calculations and the overcurrent protection.

Grounding

Proper grounding and bonding are essential for safety. Follow the requirements in NEC 250.

Working Space

Ensure adequate working space around electrical equipment (NEC 110.26).

Generator and Solar Considerations (Future)



Generator

A transfer switch will be needed to safely switch between utility power and generator power. This will prevent backfeeding onto the utility grid. There are various types of transfer switches, including manual and automatic. You could locate it after the 400A disconnect to feed both shop and home.

Solar (Off-Grid)

If you're planning an off-grid system (no backfeeding), you'll need a charge controller, batteries, and an inverter. The output of the inverter can then be connected to a separate panel or integrated into your existing system through a transfer switch or other suitable means.

Important Recommendations



Load Calculations

Perform detailed load calculations for both the shop and the house. This is critical for sizing conductors, panels, and overcurrent protection.

Local Codes and Permits

Always check with your local building department for specific requirements and permit procedures. They may have amendments to the NEC.*

Qualified Electrician: This project involves significant electrical work and should be performed by a licensed and experienced electrician. Safety is paramount. A professional will ensure code compliance and safe installation.I know this is a lot of information. Take it step by step. Start with accurate load calculations and then consult with a qualified electrician to design the system and obtain the necessary permits. Good luck! Flag for review