Yes, generally, it is against the National Electrical Code (NEC) to combine circuits from different panels in a way that would energize a single piece of equipment or a single raceway with multiple sources of power without proper isolation. The main concern is creating parallel paths for current and creating dangerous voltage differentials.Here's a breakdown of why, and some possible exceptions (though exceptions are rare and require careful consideration)

Why it's generally prohibited:
Safety Hazard (Electric Shock)

Multiple voltage sources in a single piece of equipment or a single raceway create a shock hazard. Maintenance personnel could de-energize one panel, thinking the equipment is safe, only to be shocked by the other energized circuit.

Parallel Neutral Paths

Connecting neutrals from different panels to the same equipment or raceway can create unintended parallel neutral paths. This leads to:

Overloaded Neutrals

The neutral can carry more current than it's rated for, leading to overheating and fire.

Stray Voltages

Voltage differences can appear between grounded metal parts, creating nuisance shocks.

Ground Loops

Can cause interference with sensitive equipment.

Voltage Difference Issues

Different panels might be on slightly different voltage potentials, which can cause problems.

Arc Flash Potential

Fault conditions can be more severe and unpredictable.

Contradicts the Intent of Disconnecting Means

The NEC requires a single disconnect to isolate equipment. Having multiple sources defeats that.

Proper Identification

Makes it difficult to trace and identify circuits correctly.

Specific NEC Sections that relate to this



NEC 300.3(B)

Conductors of different systems shall not occupy the same raceway, cable, or enclosure. Exception No. 1 allows for power-limited fire alarm, Class 2, and Class 3 circuits to be mixed in a raceway, cable, or enclosure with other non-power-limited circuits, as long as they are functionally associated. However, this isn't your situation.

NEC 225.30

Number of Supplies. Generally limits a building or structure to one source of supply.

NEC 225.31

Disconnecting Means. Requires a disconnecting means for each building or structure.

NEC 408.36

Overcurrent Protection. Relates to protecting panelboards against backfeed.

Are there ANY possible exceptions? (Extremely Rare and Requires Expert Consultation)

There are some very specific circumstances where you might be able to combine circuits from different panels, but these are uncommon and require a thorough understanding of the NEC and expert engineering consultation:

Transfer Switches

If you have a properly installed and listed transfer switch (manual or automatic) that ensures only one source can feed the equipment at a time, this can be acceptable. The transfer switch provides the necessary isolation.

Listed Equipment

If a piece of equipment is listed (by UL, ETL, etc.) and specifically designed to be fed from multiple sources (and the listing allows for that), it might be acceptable if installed according to the listing instructions. This is very rare, especially for simple receptacles.

Separately Derived Systems

If both panels are separately derived systems (e.g., from transformers) and there's a solid, engineered reason (and the AHJ approves), it's possible but highly unlikely. You'd have to demonstrate that the grounding is coordinated and safe.

In your case (light pole and receptacle)

The fact that the pole light and receptacle are separately wired from different panels makes it extremely unlikely that you can legally combine the circuits in any way without violating the NEC. The receptacle is considered part of the lighting pole enclosure, and now, multiple power sources are supplying this structure.

What you should do


Consult a Qualified Electrical Engineer

The only way to determine if there's a code-compliant solution is to consult with a licensed and experienced electrical engineer. They can assess the specific situation, analyze the panels and loads, and determine if any safe and code-compliant solutions are possible.2.

Contact the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

Ultimately, the local electrical inspector (AHJ) has the final say. Discuss your situation with them before making any changes. Get their written approval if you find a potential solution.3.

Likely Solution

The most likely solution is to either: Run a new circuit from the panel that feeds the light to the receptacle. Run a new circuit from the panel that feeds the receptacle to the light.* If possible, replace the receptacle with a GFCI-protected receptacle fed from the light pole circuit.

In Summary:

Combining circuits from different panels to feed the same equipment is generally a major code violation and a significant safety hazard. Do not attempt this without expert advice and approval from the AHJ. It is extremely unlikely you can do this safely and legally with the described scenario. You will almost certainly need to rewire one or both circuits. Flag for review