The code requirements for motor disconnects are covered in the NEC Article 430.
What is the Article
The code requirements for motor disconnects are covered in the National Electrical Code (NEC). Specifically, Article 430 of the NEC covers the requirements for motors, motor controllers, and motor disconnects.
So, NEC Article 430.102 states that "Every motor shall be provided with a disconnecting means within sight from or readily accessible from the motor location." This means that the disconnect must be located close enough to the motor that a person can easily reach it to turn it off in an emergency.The type of disconnect that is required depends on the size and type of the motor.