This image shows the recommended working space depth around an electrical panel in a residential home. The purpose of keeping accessible open space is so that the breakers can be accessed safely. Additionally an electrician or a home inspector may need to open the panel which requires safe clearances. Your electrical panel may also have ground-fault protected breakers which will need to be accessed if they trip. For safety’s sake, it is recommended to maintain these clearances. We highly recommend against storing any sort of furniture or shelving across the front of the panel which often is the case. The electrical panel is a critical component in your home and should be accessible if needed.