---
aliases:
  - nec-210
tags:
  - authorship/other
  - destiny/uncertain
  - exclude-from-word-count
  - status/draft
  - topic/construction/electrical
  - type/media/reference
title: Article 210 Branch Circuits
---
# Article 210 Branch Circuits

## Part I. General Provisions

### 210.1 Scope.

This article provides the general requirements for branch circuits.

### 210.3 Other Articles for Specific-Purpose Branch Circuits.

Table 210.3 lists references for specific equipment and applications not located in Chapters 5, 6, and 7 that amend or supplement the requirements of this article.

#### Table 210.3 Specific-Purpose Branch Circuits

| Equipment                                                                   | Article | Section               |
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------- | --------------------- |
| Air-conditioning and refrigerating equipment                                |         | 440.6, 440.31, 440.32 |
| Busways                                                                     |         | 368.17                |
| Central heating equipment other than fixed electric space-heating equipment |         | 422.12                |
| Fixed electric heating equipment for pipelines and vessels                  |         | 427.4                 |
| Fixed electric space-heating equipment                                      |         | 424.3                 |
| Fixed outdoor electrical deicing and snow-melting equipment                 |         | 426.4                 |
| Infrared lamp industrial heating equipment                                  |         | 422.48, 424.3         |
| Motors, motor circuits, and controllers                                     | 430     |                       |
| Switchboards and panelboards                                                |         | 408.52                |

%%
* [[nfpa-70_440_hvac-equipment#440.6 Ampacity and Rating.]]
* [[nfpa-70_440_hvac-equipment#440.31 General.]]
* [[nfpa-70_440_hvac-equipment#440.32 Single Motor-Compressor.]]
* [[nfpa-70_430_motors]]
%%

### 210.4 Multiwire Branch Circuits.

#### 210.4(A) General.

Branch circuits recognized by this article shall be permitted as multiwire circuits. A multiwire circuit shall be permitted to be considered as multiple circuits. All conductors of a multiwire branch circuit shall originate from the same panelboard or similar distribution equipment.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> A 3-phase, 4-wire, wye-connected power system used to supply power to nonlinear loads may necessitate that the power system design allow for the possibility of high harmonic currents on the neutral conductor.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> See 300.13(B) for continuity of grounded conductors on multiwire circuits.

#### 210.4(B) Disconnecting Means.

Each multiwire branch circuit shall be provided with a means that will simultaneously disconnect all ungrounded conductors at the point where the branch circuit originates.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> See 240.15(B) for information on the use of single-pole circuit breakers as the disconnecting means.

#### 210.4(C) Line-to-Neutral Loads.

Multiwire branch circuits shall supply only line-to-neutral loads.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> A multiwire branch circuit that supplies only one utilization equipment.

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> Where all ungrounded conductors of the multiwire branch circuit are opened simultaneously by the branch-circuit overcurrent device.

#### 210.4(D) Grouping.

The ungrounded and grounded circuit conductors of each multiwire branch circuit shall be grouped in accordance with 200.4(B).

### 210.5 Identification for Branch Circuits.

#### 210.5(A) Grounded Conductor.

The grounded conductor of a branch circuit shall be identified in accordance with 200.6.

#### 210.5(B) Equipment Grounding Conductor.

The equipment grounding conductor shall be identified in accordance with 250.119.

#### 210.5(C) Identification of Ungrounded Conductors.

Ungrounded conductors shall be identified in accordance with 210.5(C)(1) or (2), as applicable.

##### 210.5(C)(1) Branch Circuits Supplied from More Than One Nominal Voltage System.

Where the premises wiring system has branch circuits supplied from more than one nominal voltage system, each ungrounded conductor of a branch circuit shall be identified by phase or line and by system voltage class at all termination, connection, and splice points in compliance with 210.5(C)(1)(a) and (b). Different systems within the same premises that have the same system voltage class shall be permitted to use the same identification.

* (a) _Means of Identification._
    The means of identification shall be permitted to be by separate color coding, marking tape, tagging, or other approved means.

* (b) _Posting of Identification Means._
    The method utilized for conductors originating within each branch-circuit panelboard or similar branch-circuit distribution equipment shall be documented in a manner that is readily available or shall be permanently posted at each branch-circuit panelboard or similar branch-circuit distribution equipment. The label shall be of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved and shall not be handwritten.

> [!important] Exception:
> In existing installations where a voltage system(s) already exists and a different voltage system is being added, it shall be permissible to mark only the new system voltage. Existing unidentified systems shall not be required to be identified at each termination, connection, and splice point in compliance with 210.5(C)(1)(a) and (b). Labeling shall be required at each voltage system distribution equipment to identify that only one voltage system has been marked for a new system(s). The new system label(s) shall include the words "other unidentified systems exist on the premises."

##### 210.5(C)(2) Branch Circuits Supplied from Direct-Current Systems.

Where a branch circuit is supplied from a dc system operating at more than 60 volts, each ungrounded conductor of 4 AWG or larger shall be identified by polarity at all termination, connection, and splice points by marking tape, tagging, or other approved means; each ungrounded conductor of 6 AWG or smaller shall be identified by polarity at all termination, connection, and splice points in compliance with 210.5(C) (2) (a) and (b). The identification methods utilized for conductors originating within each branch-circuit panelboard or similar branch-circuit distribution equipment shall be documented in a manner that is readily available or shall be permanently posted at each branch-circuit panelboard or similar branch-circuit distribution equipment.

* (a) Positive Polarity, Sizes 6 AWG or Smaller. Where the positive polarity of a dc system does not serve as the connection point for the grounded conductor, each positive ungrounded conductor shall be identified by one of the following means:

* (1) A continuous red outer finish

* (2) A continuous red stripe durably marked along the conductor's entire length on insulation of a color other than green, white, gray, or black

* (3) Imprinted plus signs (+) or the word POSITIVE or POS durably marked on insulation of a color other than green, white, gray, or black and repeated at intervals not exceeding 610 mm (24 in.) in accordance with 310.8(B)

* (4) An approved permanent marking means such as sleeving or shrink-tubing that is suitable for the conductor size, at all termination, connection, and splice points, with imprinted plus signs (+) or the word POSITIVE or POS durably marked on insulation of a color other than green, white, gray, or black

* (b) Negative Polarity, Sizes 6 AWG or Smaller. Where the negative polarity of a dc system does not serve as the connection point for the grounded conductor, each negative ungrounded conductor shall be identified by one of the following means:

* (1) A continuous black outer finish

* (2) A continuous black stripe durably marked along the conductor's entire length on insulation of a color other than green, white, gray, or red

* (3) Imprinted minus signs (--) or the word NEGATIVE or NEG durably marked on insulation of a color other than green, white, gray, or red and repeated at intervals not exceeding 610 mm (24 in.) in accordance with 310.8(B)

* (4) An approved permanent marking means such as sleeving or shrink-tubing that is suitable for the conductor size, at all termination, connection, and splice points, with imprinted minus signs (--) or the word NEGATIVE or NEG durably marked on insulation of a color other than green, white, gray, or red

### 210.6 Branch-Circuit Voltage Limitations.

The nominal voltage of branch circuits shall not exceed the values permitted by 210.6(A) through (E).

#### 210.6(A) Occupancy Limitation.

In dwelling units and guest rooms or guest suites of hotels, motels, and similar occupancies, the voltage shall not exceed 120 volts, nominal, between conductors that supply the terminals of the following:

* (1) Luminaires

* (2) Cord-and-plug-connected loads 1440 volt-amperes, nominal,
    or less or less than 1/4 hp

#### 210.6(B) 120 Volts Between Conductors.

Circuits not exceeding 120 volts, nominal, between conductors shall be permitted to supply the following:

* (1) The terminals of lampholders applied within their voltage ratings

* (2) Auxiliary equipment of electric-discharge lamps

    > [!info] Informational Note:
    > See 410.137 for auxiliary equipment limitations.

* (3) Cord-and-plug-connected or permanently connected utilization equipment

#### 210.6(C) 277 Volts to Ground.

Circuits exceeding 120 volts, nominal, between conductors but not exceeding 277 volts, nominal, to ground shall be permitted to supply cord-and-plug-connected or permanently connected utilization equipment, or the following types of listed luminaires:

* (1) Electric-discharge luminaires with integral ballasts

* (2) LED luminaires with LED drivers between the branch circuit and the lampholders

* (3) Incandescent or LED luminaires, equipped with medium-base or smaller screw shell lampholders, where the lampholders are supplied at 120 volts or less from the output of a stepdown autotransformer, LED driver, or other type of power supply that is an integral component of the luminaire

    > [!info] Informational Note:
    > See 410.90 for requirements regarding the connection of screw shell lampholders to grounded conductors.

* (4) Luminaires equipped with mogul-base screw shell lampholders

* (5) Luminaires equipped with lampholders, other than the screw shell type, when used within their voltage ratings of their lampholders

* (6) Luminaires without lampholders

    > [!info] Informational Note:
    > Luminaires with nonserviceable LEDs are examples of luminaires without lampholders.

* (7) Auxiliary equipment of electric-discharge or LED-type lamps

    > [!info] Informational Note:
    > See 410.137 for auxiliary equipment limitations.

* (8) Luminaires converted with listed retrofit kits incorporating integral LED light sources or accepting LED lamps that also conforms with 210.6(C)(1), (C)(2), (C)(3), (C)(4), or (C)(5)

#### 210.6(D) 600 Volts Between Conductors.

Circuits exceeding 277 volts, nominal, to ground and not exceeding 600 volts, nominal, between conductors shall be permitted to supply the following:

* (1) The auxiliary equipment of electric-discharge lamps mounted in permanently installed luminaires where the luminaires are mounted in accordance with one of the following:
    * a. Not less than a height of 6.7 m (22 ft) on poles or similar structures for the illumination of outdoor areas such as highways, roads, bridges, athletic fields, or parking lots
    * b. Not less than a height of 5.5 m (18 ft) on other structures such as tunnels

> [!info] Informational Note:
> See 410.137 for auxiliary equipment limitations.

* (2) Cord-and-plug-connected or permanently connected utilization equipment other than luminaires

* (3) Luminaires powered from direct-current systems where either of the following apply:
    * a. The luminaire contains a listed, dc-rated ballast that provides isolation between the dc power source and the lamp circuit and protection from electric shock when changing lamps.
    * b. The luminaire contains a listed, dc-rated ballast and has no provision for changing lamps.

> [!important] Exception No. 1 to (B), (C), and (D):
> For lampholders of infrared industrial heating appliances as provided in 425.14.

> [!important] Exception No. 2 to (B), (C), and (D):
> For railway properties as described in 110.19.

#### 210.6(E) Over 600 Volts Between Conductors.

Circuits exceeding 600 volts, nominal, between conductors shall be permitted to supply utilization equipment in installations where conditions of maintenance and supervision ensure that only qualified persons service the installation.

### 210.7 Multiple Branch Circuits.

Where two or more branch circuits supply devices or equipment on the same yoke or mounting strap, a means to simultaneously disconnect the ungrounded supply conductors shall be provided at the point at which the branch circuits originate.

### 210.8 Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel.

Ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel shall be provided as required in 210.8(A) through (F). The ground-fault circuit interrupter shall be installed in a readily accessible location.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> See 215.9 for ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel on feeders.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> See 422.5(A) for GFCI requirements for appliances.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 3:
> See 555.9 for GFCI requirements for boat hoists.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 4:
> Additional GFCI requirements for specific circuits and equipment are contained in Chapters 4, 5, and 6.

For the purposes of this section, when determining the distance from receptacles the distance shall be measured as the shortest path the supply cord of an appliance connected to the receptacle would follow without piercing a floor, wall, ceiling, or fixed barrier, or the shortest path without passing through a window.

#### 210.8(A) Dwelling Units.

All 125-volt through 250-volt receptacles installed in the locations specified in 210.8(A)(1) through (A) (11) and supplied by single-phase branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to ground shall have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.

* (1) Bathrooms

* (2) Garages and also accessory buildings that have a floor located at or below grade level not intended as habitable rooms and limited to storage areas, work areas, and areas of similar use

* (3) Outdoors

    > [!important] Exception to (3):
    > Receptacles that are not readily accessible
    > and are supplied by a branch circuit dedicated to electric snowmelting,
    > deicing, or pipeline and vessel heating equipment
    > shall be permitted to be installed in accordance with 426.28 or 427.22, as applicable.

* (4) Crawl spaces --- at or below grade level

* (5) Basements

    > [!important] Exception to (5):
    > A receptacle supplying only a permanently installed fire alarm or burglar alarm system shall not be required to have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection.

    > [!info] Informational Note:
    > See 760.41(B) and 760.121(B) for power supply requirements for fire alarm systems.

Receptacles installed under the exception to 210.8(A)(5) shall not be considered as meeting the requirements of 210.52(G).

* (6) Kitchens --- where the receptacles are installed to serve the countertop surfaces

* (7) Sinks --- where receptacles are installed within 1.8 m (6 ft) from the top inside edge of the bowl of the sink

* (8) Boathouses

* (9) Bathtubs or shower stalls --- where receptacles are installed within 1.8 m (6 ft) of the outside edge of the bathtub or shower stall

* (10) Laundry areas

    > [!important] Exception to (1) through (3), (5) through (8), and (10):
    > Listed locking support and mounting receptacles utilized in combination with compatible attachment fittings installed for the purpose of serving a ceiling luminaire or ceiling fan shall not be required to be ground-fault circuit-interrupter protected. If a general-purpose convenience receptacle is integral to the ceiling luminaire or ceiling fan, GFCI protection shall be provided.

* (11) Indoor damp and wet locations

#### 210.8(B) Other Than Dwelling Units.

All 125-volt through 250-volt receptacles supplied by single-phase branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to ground, 50 amperes or less, and all receptacles supplied by three-phase branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to ground, 100 amperes or less, installed in the locations specified in 210.8(B)(1) through (B)(12) shall have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.

* (1) Bathrooms

* (2) Kitchens or areas with a sink and permanent provisions for either food preparation or cooking

* (3) Rooftops

    > [!important] Exception:
    > Receptacles on rooftops shall not be required to be readily accessible other than from the rooftop.

* (4) Outdoors

Exception No. 1 to (3) and (4): Receptacles that are not readily accessible and are supplied by a branch circuit dedicated to electric snow-melting, deicing, or pipeline and vessel heating equipment shall be permitted to be installed in accordance with
426.28 or 427.22, as applicable.

Exception No. 2 to (4): In industrial establishments only, where the conditions of maintenance and supervision ensure that only qualified personnel are involved, an assured equipment grounding conductor program as specified in 590.6(B)(2) shall be permitted for only those receptacle outlets used to supply equipment that would create a greater hazard if power is interrupted or having a design that is not compatible with GFCI protection.

* (5) Sinks --- where receptacles are installed within 1.8 m (6 ft) from the top inside edge of the bowl of the sink

Exception No. 1 to (5): In industrial laboratories, receptacles used to supply equipment where removal of power would introduce a greater hazard shall be permitted to be installed without GFCI protection.

Exception No. 2 to (5): Receptacles located in patient bed locations of Category 2 (general care) or Category 1 (critical care) spaces of health care facilities shall be permitted to comply with 517.21.

* (6) Indoor damp and wet locations

* (7) Locker rooms with associated showering facilities

* (8) Garages, accessory buildings, service bays, and similar areas other than vehicle exhibition halls and showrooms

* (9) Crawl spaces --- at or below grade level

* (10) Unfinished areas of basements

Exception to (1) through (5), (8), and (10): Listed locking support and mounting receptacles utilized in combination with compatible attachment fittings installed for the purpose of serving a ceiling luminaire or ceiling fan shall not be required to be ground-fault circuit-interrupter protected. If a general-purpose convenience receptacle is integral to the ceiling luminaire or ceiling fan, GFCI protection shall be provided.

* (11) Laundry areas

* (12) Bathtubs and shower stalls --- where receptacles are installed within 1.8 m (6 ft) of the outside edge of the bathtub or shower stall

#### 210.8(C) Crawl Space Lighting Outlets.

GFCI protection shall be provided for lighting outlets not exceeding 120 volts installed in crawl spaces.

#### 210.8(D) Specific Appliances.

Unless GFCI protection is provided in accordance with 422.5(B)(3) through (B)(5), the outlets supplying the appliances specified in
422.5(A) shall have GFCI protection in accordance with 422.5(B)(1) or (B)(2).

Where the appliance is a vending machine as specified in 422.5(A)(5) and GFCI protection is not provided in accordance with 422.5(B)

* (3) or (B)(4), branch circuits supplying vending machines shall have GFCI protection in accordance with 422.5(B)(1) or (B)(2).

#### 210.8(E) Equipment Requiring Servicing.

GFCI protection shall be provided for the receptacles required by 210.63.

#### 210.8(F) Outdoor Outlets.

All outdoor outlets for dwellings, other than those covered in 210.8(A)(3), Exception to (3), that are supplied by single-phase branch circuits rated 150 volts to ground or less, 50 amperes or less, shall have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.

> [!important] Exception:
> Ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection shall not be required on lighting outlets other than those covered in 210.8(C).

### 210.9 Circuits Derived from Autotransformers.

Branch circuits shall not be derived from autotransformers unless the circuit supplied has a grounded conductor that is electrically connected to a grounded conductor of the system supplying the autotransformer.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> An autotransformer shall be permitted without the connection to a grounded conductor where transforming from a nominal 208 volts to a nominal 240-volt supply or similarly from 240 volts to 208 volts.

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> In industrial occupancies, where conditions of maintenance and supervision ensure that only qualified persons service the installation, autotransformers shall be permitted to supply nominal 600-volt loads from nominal 480-volt systems, and 480-volt loads from nominal 600-volt systems, without the connection to a similar grounded conductor.

### 210.10 Ungrounded Conductors Tapped from Grounded Systems.

Two-wire dc circuits and ac circuits of two or more ungrounded conductors shall be permitted to be tapped from the ungrounded conductors of circuits that have a grounded neutral conductor. Switching devices in each tapped circuit shall have a pole in each ungrounded conductor. All poles of multipole switching devices shall manually switch together where such switching devices also serve as a disconnecting means as required by the following:

* (1) 410.93 for double-pole switched lampholders

* (2) 410.104(B) for electric-discharge lamp auxiliary equipment switching devices

* (3) 422.31(B) for an appliance

* (4) 424.20 for a fixed electric space-heating unit

* (5) 426.51 for electric deicing and snow-melting equipment

* (6) 430.85 for a motor controller

* (7) 430.103 for a motor

### 210.11 Branch Circuits Required.

Branch circuits for lighting and for appliances,
including motor-operated appliances,
shall be provided to supply the loads calculated in accordance with 220.10.
In addition, branch circuits shall be provided for specific loads not covered by 220.10
where required elsewhere in this Code
and for dwelling unit loads as specified in 210.11(C).

#### 210.11(A) Number of Branch Circuits.

The minimum number of branch circuits
shall be determined from the total calculated load
and the size or rating of the circuits used.
In all installations, the number of circuits
shall be sufficient to supply the load served.
In no case shall the load on any circuit exceed the maximum specified by 220.18.

#### 210.11(B) Load Evenly Proportioned Among Branch Circuits.

Where the load is calculated on the basis of volt-amperes per square meter or per square foot,
the wiring system up to and including the branch-circuit panelboard(s)
shall be provided to serve not less than the calculated load.
This load shall be evenly proportioned
among multioutlet branch circuits within the panelboard(s).
Branch-circuit overcurrent devices and circuits
shall be required to be installed only to serve the connected load.

#### 210.11(C) Dwelling Units.

##### 210.11(C)(1) Small-Appliance Branch Circuits.

In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section,
two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits shall be provided
for all receptacle outlets specified by 210.52(B).

##### 210.11(C)(2) Laundry Branch Circuits.

In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section,
at least one additional 20-ampere branch circuit shall be provided
to supply the laundry receptacle outlet(s) required by 210.52(F).
This circuit shall have no other outlets.

##### 210.11(C)(3) Bathroom Branch Circuits.

In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section,
one or more 120-volt, 20-ampere branch circuit shall be provided
to supply bathroom(s) receptacle outlet(s) required by 210.52(D)
and any countertop and similar work surface receptacle outlets.
Such circuits shall have no other outlets.

> [!important] Exception:
> Where the 20-ampere circuit supplies a single bathroom,
> outlets for other equipment within the same bathroom
> shall be permitted to be supplied in accordance with 210.23(A)(1) and (A)(2).

##### 210.11(C)(4) Garage Branch Circuits.

In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section,
at least one 120-volt, 20-ampere branch circuit shall be installed
to supply receptacle outlets required by 210.52(G)(1)
for attached garages and in detached garages with electric power.
This circuit shall have no other outlets.

> [!important] Exception:
> This circuit shall be permitted to supply
> readily accessible outdoor receptacle outlets.

### 210.12 Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection.

Arc-fault circuit-interrupter protection shall be provided as required in 210.12(A), (B), (C), and (D). The arc-fault circuit interrupter shall be installed in a readily accessible location.

#### 210.12(A) Dwelling Units.

All 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets or devices installed in dwelling unit kitchens, family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, laundry areas, or similar rooms or areas shall be protected by any of the means described in 210.12(A)(1) through (6):

* (1) A listed combination-type arc-fault circuit interrupter installed to provide protection of the entire branch circuit

* (2) A listed branch/feeder-type AFCI installed at the origin of the branch-circuit in combination with a listed outlet branch-circuit-type arc-fault circuit interrupter installed at the first outlet box on the branch circuit. The first outlet box in the branch circuit shall be marked to indicate that it is the first outlet of the circuit.

* (3) A listed supplemental arc protection circuit breaker installed at the origin of the branch circuit in combination with a listed outlet branch-circuit-type arc-fault circuit interrupter installed at the first outlet box on the branch circuit where all of the following conditions are met:
    * a. The branch-circuit wiring shall be continuous from the branch-circuit overcurrent device to the outlet branch-circuit arcfault circuit interrupter.
    * b. The maximum length of the branch-circuit wiring from the branch-circuit overcurrent device to the first outlet shall not exceed 15.2 m (50 ft) for a 14 AWG conductor or 21.3 m (70 ft) for a 12 AWG conductor.
    * c. The first outlet box in the branch circuit shall be marked to indicate that it is the first outlet of the circuit.

* (4) A listed outlet branch-circuit-type arc-fault circuit interrupter installed at the first outlet on the branch circuit in combination with a listed branch-circuit overcurrent protective device where all of the following conditions are met:
    * a. The branch-circuit wiring shall be continuous from the branch-circuit overcurrent device to the outlet branch-circuit arcfault circuit interrupter.
    * b. The maximum length of the branch-circuit wiring from the branch-circuit overcurrent device to the first outlet shall not exceed 15.2 m (50 ft) for a 14 AWG conductor or 21.3 m (70 ft) for a 12 AWG conductor.
    * c. The first outlet box in the branch circuit shall be marked to indicate that it is the first outlet of the circuit.
    * d. The combination of the branch-circuit overcurrent device and outlet branch-circuit AFCI shall be identified as meeting the requirements for a system combination-type AFCI and shall be listed as such.

* (5) If metal raceway, metal wireways, metal auxiliary gutters, or Type MC, or Type AC cable meeting the applicable requirements of 250.118, with metal boxes, metal conduit bodies, and metal enclosures are installed for the portion of the branch circuit between the branch-circuit overcurrent device and the first outlet, it shall be permitted to install a listed outlet branch-circuit-type AFCI at the first outlet to provide protection for the remaining portion of the branch circuit.

* (6) Where a listed metal or nonmetallic conduit or tubing or Type MC cable is encased in not less than 50 mm (2 in.) of concrete for the portion of the branch circuit between the branch-circuit overcurrent device and the first outlet, it shall be permitted to install a listed outlet branch-circuit-type AFCI at the first outlet to provide protection for the remaining portion of the branch circuit.

> [!important] Exception:
> AFCI protection shall not be required for an individual branch circuit supplying a fire alarm system installed in accordance with 760.41(B) or 760.121(B). The branch circuit shall be installed in a metal raceway, metal auxiliary gutter, steel-armored cable, Type MC or Type AC, meeting the applicable requirements of 250.118, with metal boxes, conduit bodies, and enclosures.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> For information on combination-type and branch/feeder-type arc-fault circuit interrupters, see UL 1699-2011, Standard for Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters. For information on outlet branch-circuit type arc-fault circuit interrupters, see UL Subject 1699A, Outline of Investigation for Outlet Branch Circuit Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupters. For information on system combination AFCIs, see UL Subject 1699C, Outline of Investigation for System Combination Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> See 29.6.3(5) of NFPA 72-2013, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, for information related to secondary power-supply requirements for smoke alarms installed in dwelling units.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 3:
> See 760.41(B) and 760.121(B) for power-supply requirements for fire alarm systems.

#### 210.12(B) Dormitory Units.

All 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets and devices installed in dormitory unit bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, closets, bathrooms, and similar rooms shall be protected by any of the means described in 210.12(A)(1) through (6).
210.12(C) Guest Rooms, Guest Suites, and Patient Sleeping Rooms in Nursing Homes and Limited-Care Facilities.

All 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets and devices installed in guest rooms and guest suites of hotels and motels and patient sleeping rooms in nursing homes and limited-care facilities shall be protected by any of the means described in 210.12(A)(1) through (6).
210.12(D) Branch Circuit Extensions or Modifications --- Dwelling Units, Dormitory Units, and Guest Rooms and Guest Suites.

Where branch circuit wiring for any of the areas specified in 210.12(A), (B), or (C) is modified, replaced, or extended, the branch circuit shall be protected by one of the following:

* (1) By any of the means described in 210.12(A)(1) through (A)(6)

* (2) A listed outlet branch-circuit-type AFCI located at the first receptacle outlet of the existing branch circuit

> [!important] Exception:
> AFCI protection shall not be required where the extension of the existing branch circuit conductors is not more than 1.8 m (6 ft) and does not include any additional outlets or devices, other than splicing devices. This measurement shall not include the conductors inside an enclosure, cabinet, or junction box.

### 210.13 Ground-Fault Protection of Equipment.

Each branch-circuit disconnect rated 1000 A or more and installed on solidly grounded wye electrical systems of more than 150 volts to ground, but not exceeding 600 volts phase-to-phase, shall be provided with ground-fault protection of equipment in accordance with
230.95.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> For buildings that contain health care occupancies, see the requirements of 517.17.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> This section shall not apply to a disconnecting means for a continuous industrial process where a nonorderly shutdown will introduce additional or increased hazards.

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> This section shall not apply if ground-fault protection of equipment is provided on the supply side of the branch circuit and on the load side of any transformer supplying the branch circuit.

### 210.15 Reconditioned Equipment.

The following shall not be reconditioned:

* (1) Equipment that provides ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel

* (2) Equipment that provides arc-fault circuit-interrupter protection

* (3) Equipment that provides ground-fault protection of equipment

### 210.17 Guest Rooms and Guest Suites.

Guest rooms and guest suites that are provided with permanent provisions for cooking shall have branch circuits installed to meet the rules for dwelling units.

## Part II. Branch-Circuit Ratings

### 210.18 Rating.

Branch circuits recognized by this article
shall be rated in accordance with the maximum permitted ampere rating
or setting of the overcurrent device.
The rating for other than individual branch circuits
shall be 15, 20, 30, 40, and 50 amperes.
Where conductors of higher ampacity are used for any reason,
the ampere rating or setting of the specified overcurrent device
shall determine the circuit rating.

> [!important] Exception:
> Multioutlet branch circuits greater than 50 amperes
> shall be permitted to supply nonlighting outlet loads on industrial premises
> where conditions of maintenance and supervision ensure
> that only qualified persons service the equipment.

### 210.19 Conductors --- Minimum Ampacity and Size.

#### 210.19(A) Branch Circuits Not More Than 600 Volts.

##### 210.19(A)(1) General.

Branch-circuit conductors shall have an ampacity
not less than the larger of 210.19(A)(1)(a) or (A)(1)(b)
and comply with
[[nfpa-70_110_requirements#110.14(C) Temperature Limitations.|110.14(C)]]
for equipment terminations.

* (a) Where a branch circuit supplies continuous loads
    or any combination of continuous and noncontinuous loads,
    the minimum branch-circuit conductor size
    shall have an ampacity not less than the noncontinuous load
    plus 125 percent of the continuous load in accordance with
    [[nfpa-70_310_conductors_for_general_wiring#310.14 Ampacities for Conductors Rated 0 Volts -- 2000 Volts.|310.14]].

* (b) The minimum branch-circuit conductor size
    shall have an ampacity not less than the maximum load to be served
    after the application of any adjustment
    or correction factors in accordance with
    [[nfpa-70_310_conductors_for_general_wiring#310.15 Ampacity Tables.|310.15]].

> [!important] Exception No. 1 to (1)(a):
> If the assembly, including the overcurrent devices protecting the branch circuit(s), is listed for operation at
100 percent of its rating, the ampacity of the branch-circuit conductors shall be permitted to be not less than the sum of the continuous load plus the noncontinuous load in accordance with 110.14(C).

> [!important] Exception No. 2 to (1)(a) and (1)(b):
> Where a portion of a branch circuit is connected at both its supply and load ends to separately installed pressure connections as covered in 110.14(C)(2), it shall be permitted to have an allowable ampacity, in accordance with 310.15, not less than the sum of the continuous load plus the noncontinuous load. No portion of a branch circuit installed under this exception shall extend into an enclosure containing either the branch-circuit supply or the branch-circuit load terminations.

##### 210.19(A)(2) Branch Circuits with More than One Receptacle.

Conductors of branch circuits supplying more than one receptacle
for cord-and-plug-connected portable loads
shall have an ampacity of not less than the rating of the branch circuit.

##### 210.19(A)(3) Household Ranges and Cooking Appliances.

Branch-circuit conductors supplying household ranges, wall-mounted ovens, counter-mounted cooking units, and other household cooking appliances shall have an ampacity not less than the rating of the branch circuit and not less than the maximum load to be served. For ranges of 8 3/4 kW or more rating, the minimum branch-circuit rating shall be 40 amperes.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> Conductors tapped from a branch circuit not exceeding 50 amperes supplying electric ranges, wall-mounted electric ovens, and counter-mounted electric cooking units shall have an ampacity of not less than 20 amperes and shall be sufficient for the load to be served. These tap conductors include any conductors that are a part of the leads supplied with the appliance that are smaller than the branch-circuit conductors. The taps shall not be longer than necessary for servicing the appliance.

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> The neutral conductor of a 3-wire branch circuit supplying a household electric range, a wall-mounted oven, or a counter-mounted cooking unit shall be permitted to be smaller than the ungrounded conductors where the maximum demand of a range of 83/4 kW or more rating has been calculated according to Column C of Table 220.55, but such conductor shall have an ampacity of not less than 70 percent of the branch-circuit rating and shall not be smaller than 10 AWG.

##### 210.19(A)(4) Other Loads.

Branch-circuit conductors that supply loads other than those specified in 210.3 and other than cooking appliances as covered in 210.19(A)(3) shall have an ampacity sufficient for the loads served and shall not be smaller than 14 AWG.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> Tap conductors shall have an ampacity sufficient for the load served. In addition, they shall have an ampacity of not less than 15 for circuits rated less than 40 amperes and not less than 20 for circuits rated at 40 or 50 amperes and only where these tap conductors supply any of the following loads:

* (1) Individual lampholders or luminaires with taps extending not longer than 450 mm (18 in.) beyond any portion of the lampholder or luminaire

* (2) A luminaire having tap conductors as provided in 410.117

* (3) Individual outlets, other than receptacle outlets, with taps not over 450 mm (18 in.) long

* (4) Infrared lamp industrial heating appliances

* (5) Nonheating leads of deicing and snow-melting cables and mats

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> Fixture wires and flexible cords shall be permitted to be smaller than 14 AWG as permitted by 240.5.

#### 210.19(B) Branch Circuits Over 600 Volts.

The ampacity of conductors shall be in accordance with 310.14 and 311.60, as applicable.
Branch-circuit conductors over 600 volts shall be sized in accordance with 210.19(B)(1) or (B)(2).

##### 210.19(B)(1) General.

The ampacity of branch-circuit conductors
shall not be less than 125 percent of the designed potential load of utilization equipment that will be operated simultaneously.

##### 210.19(B)(2) Supervised Installations.

For supervised installations, branch-circuit conductor sizing shall be permitted to be determined by qualified persons under engineering supervision. Supervised installations are defined as those portions of a facility where both of the following conditions are met:

* (1) Conditions of design and installation are provided under engineering supervision.

* (2) Qualified persons with documented training and experience in over 600-volt systems provide maintenance, monitoring, and servicing of the system.

### 210.20 Overcurrent Protection.

Branch-circuit conductors and equipment shall be protected by overcurrent protective devices that have a rating or setting that complies with 210.20(A) through (D).

#### 210.20(A) Continuous and Noncontinuous Loads.

Where a branch circuit supplies continuous loads or any combination of continuous and noncontinuous loads, the rating of the overcurrent device shall not be less than the noncontinuous load plus 125 percent of the continuous load.

> [!important] Exception:
> Where the assembly, including the overcurrent devices protecting the branch circuit(s), is listed for operation at 100 percent of its rating, the ampere rating of the overcurrent device shall be permitted to be not less than the sum of the continuous load plus the noncontinuous load.

#### 210.20(B) Conductor Protection.

Conductors shall be protected in accordance with 240.4. Flexible cords and fixture wires shall be protected in accordance with 240.5.

#### 210.20(C) Equipment.

The rating or setting of the overcurrent protective device shall not exceed that specified in the applicable articles referenced in Table
240.3 for equipment.

#### 210.20(D) Outlet Devices.

The rating or setting shall not exceed that specified in 210.21 for outlet devices.

### 210.21 Outlet Devices.

Outlet devices shall have an ampere rating
that is not less than the load to be served
and shall comply with 210.21(A) and (B).

#### 210.21(A) Lampholders.

Where connected to a branch circuit having a rating in excess of 20 amperes, lampholders
shall be of the heavy-duty type. A heavy-duty lampholder
shall have a rating of not less than 660 watts if of the admedium type,
or not less than 750 watts if of any other type.

#### 210.21(B) Receptacles.

##### 210.21(B)(1) Single Receptacle on an Individual Branch Circuit.

A single receptacle installed on an individual branch circuit
shall have an ampere rating
not less than that of the branch circuit.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> A receptacle installed in accordance with 430.81(B).

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> A receptacle installed exclusively for the use of a cord-and-plug-connected arc welder
> shall be permitted to have an ampere rating
> not less than the minimum branch-circuit conductor ampacity
> determined by 630.11(A) for arc welders.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> See the definition of receptacle in Article 100.

##### 210.21(B)(2) Total Cord-and-Plug-Connected Load.

Where connected to a branch circuit supplying two or more receptacles or outlets,
a receptacle shall not supply a total cord-and-plug-connected load
in excess of the maximum specified in Table 210.21(B)(2).

##### Table 210.21(B)(2) Maximum Cord-and-Plug-Connected Load to Receptacle

| Circuit Rating (Amperes) | Receptacle Rating (Amperes) | Maximum Load (Amperes) |
| ------------------------ | --------------------------- | ---------------------- |
| 15 or 20                 | 15                          | 12                     |
| 20                       | 20                          | 16                     |
| 30                       | 30                          | 24                     |

##### 210.21(B)(3) Receptacle Ratings.

Where connected to a branch circuit supplying two or more receptacles or outlets,
receptacle ratings shall conform to the values listed in Table 210.21(B)(3),
or, where rated higher than 50 amperes,
the receptacle rating shall not be less than the branch-circuit rating.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> Receptacles installed exclusively
> for the use of one or more cord-and-plug-connected arc welders
> shall be permitted to have ampere ratings
> not less than the minimum branch-circuit conductor ampacity
> determined by 630.11(A) or (B) for arc welders.

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> The ampere rating of a receptacle
> installed for electric discharge lighting
> shall be permitted to be based on 410.62(C).

##### Table 210.21(B)(3) Receptacle Ratings for Various Size Circuits

| Circuit Rating (Amperes) | Receptacle Rating (Amperes) |
| ------------------------ | --------------------------- |
| 15                       | Not over 15                 |
| 20                       | 15 or 20                    |
| 30                       | 30                          |
| 40                       | 40 or 50                    |
| 50                       | 50                          |

##### 210.21(B)(4) Range Receptacle Rating.

The ampere rating of a range receptacle
shall be permitted to be based on a single range demand load
as specified in Table 220.55.

### 210.22 Permissible Loads, Individual Branch Circuits.

An individual branch circuit
shall be permitted to supply any load for which it is rated,
but in no case shall the load exceed the branch-circuit ampere rating.

### 210.23 Permissible Loads, Multiple-Outlet Branch Circuits.

In no case shall the load exceed the branch-circuit ampere rating.
A branch circuit supplying two or more outlets or receptacles
shall supply only the loads specified according to its size
as specified in 210.23(A) through (D)
and as summarized in 210.24 and Table 210.24.

#### 210.23(A) 15- and 20-Ampere Branch Circuits.

A 15- or 20-ampere branch circuit
shall be permitted to supply lighting units
or other utilization equipment,
or a combination of both,
and shall comply with 210.23(A)(1) and (A)(2).

> [!important] Exception:
> The small-appliance branch circuits,
> laundry branch circuits, and bathroom branch circuits
> required in a dwelling unit(s) by 210.11(C)(1), (C)(2), and (C)(3)
> shall supply only the receptacle outlets specified in that section.

##### 210.23(A)(1) Cord-and-Plug-Connected Equipment Not Fastened in Place.

The rating of any one cord-and-plug-connected utilization equipment not fastened in place
shall not exceed 80 percent of the branch-circuit ampere rating.

##### 210.23(A)(2) Utilization Equipment Fastened in Place.

The total rating of utilization equipment fastened in place, other than luminaires,
shall not exceed 50 percent of the branch-circuit ampere rating
where lighting units, cord-and-plug-connected utilization equipment not fastened in place,
or both, are also supplied.

#### 210.23(B) 30-Ampere Branch Circuits.

A 30-ampere branch circuit
shall be permitted to supply fixed lighting units
with heavy-duty lampholders in other than a dwelling unit(s)
or utilization equipment in any occupancy.
A rating of any one cord-and-plug-connected utilization equipment
shall not exceed 80 percent of the branch-circuit ampere rating.

##### 210.23(C) 40and 50-Ampere Branch Circuits.

A 40- or 50-ampere branch circuit
shall be permitted to supply cooking appliances
that are fastened in place in any occupancy.
In other than dwelling units,
such circuits shall be permitted to supply
fixed lighting units with heavy-duty lampholders,
infrared heating units,
or other utilization equipment.

#### 210.23(D) Branch Circuits Larger Than 50 Amperes.

Branch circuits larger than 50 amperes
shall supply only nonlighting outlet loads.

### 210.24 Branch-Circuit Requirements --- Summary.

The requirements for circuits that have two or more outlets or receptacles, other than the receptacle circuits of 210.11(C)(1), (C)(2), and
(C)(3), are summarized in Table 210.24. This table provides only a summary of minimum requirements. See 210.19, 210.20, and
210.21 for the specific requirements applying to branch circuits.

Table 210.24 Summary of Branch-Circuit Requirements

Circuit Rating 15 A 20 A 30 A 40 A 50 A

Conductors (min. size):

Circuit Rating 15 A 20 A 30 A 40 A 50 A

Circuit wires 14 12 10 8 6

Taps 14 14 14 12 12

Fixture wires and cords
--- see 240.5

Overcurrent Protection 15 A 20 A 30 A 40 A 50 A

Outlet devices:

Lampholders permitted Any type Any type Heavy duty Heavy duty Heavy duty

Receptacle rating 15 max. A 15 or 20 A 30 A 40 or 50 A 50 A

Maximum Load 15 A 20 A 30 A 40 A 50 A

Permissible load See 210.23(A) See 210.23(A) See 210.23(B) See 210.23(C) See 210.23(C)

These gauges are for copper conductors.

For receptacle rating of cord-connected electric-discharge luminaires, see 410.62(C).

### 210.25 Branch Circuits in Buildings with More Than One Occupancy.

#### 210.25(A) Dwelling Unit Branch Circuits.

Branch circuits in each dwelling unit shall supply only loads within that dwelling unit or loads associated only with that dwelling unit.

#### 210.25(B) Common Area Branch Circuits.

Branch circuits installed for lighting, central alarm, signal, communications, or other purposes for public or common areas of a twofamily dwelling, a multifamily dwelling, or a multi-occupancy building shall not be supplied from equipment that supplies an individual dwelling unit or tenant space.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> Examples of public or common areas include, but are not limited to, lobbies, corridors, stairways, laundry rooms, roofs, elevators, washrooms, store rooms, driveways (parking), and mechanical rooms.

## Part III. Required Outlets

### 210.50 Receptacle Outlets.

[[nfpa-70_100_definitions#Receptacle Outlet.|Receptacle outlets]]
shall be installed as specified in 210.52 through 210.65.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> See Informative Annex J for information regarding ADA accessibility design.

#### 210.50(A) Cord Pendants.

A [[nfpa-70_100_definitions#Cord Connector.|cord connector]]
that is supplied by a permanently connected cord pendant
shall be considered a receptacle outlet.

#### 210.50(B) Cord Connections.

A receptacle outlet shall be installed wherever flexible cords with attachment plugs are used.
Where flexible cords are permitted to be permanently connected,
receptacles shall be permitted to be omitted for such cords.

#### 210.50(C) Appliance Receptacle Outlets.

[[nfpa-70_100_definitions#Appliance.|Appliance]]
receptacle outlets installed in a [[nfpa-70_100_definitions#Dwelling Unit.|dwelling unit]]
for specific appliances, such as laundry equipment,
shall be installed within 1.8 m (6 ft) of the intended location of the appliance.

### 210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets.

This section provides requirements for 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacle outlets.
The receptacles required by this section
shall be in addition to any receptacle that is as follows:

* (1) Part of a luminaire or appliance, or

* (2) Controlled by a listed wall-mounted control device
    in accordance with 210.70(A)(1), Exception No. 1, or

* (3) Located within cabinets or cupboards, or

* (4) Located more than 1.7 m (5 1/2 ft) above the floor

Permanently installed electric baseboard heaters
equipped with factory-installed receptacle outlets
or outlets provided as a separate assembly by the manufacturer
shall be permitted as the required outlet or outlets
for the wall space utilized by such permanently installed heaters.
Such receptacle outlets shall not be connected to the heater circuits.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> Listed baseboard heaters include instructions
> that may not permit their installation below receptacle outlets.

#### 210.52(A) General Provisions.

In every kitchen, family room, dining room,
living room, parlor, library, den,
sunroom, bedroom, recreation room,
or similar room or area of dwelling units,
receptacle outlets shall be installed
in accordance with the general provisions
specified in 210.52(A)(1) through (A)(4).

##### 210.52(A)(1) Spacing.

Receptacles shall be installed such that no point
measured horizontally along the floor line of any wall space
is more than 1.8 m (6 ft) from a receptacle outlet.

##### 210.52(A)(2) Wall Space.

As used in this section, a wall space shall include the following:

* (1) Any space 600 mm (2 ft) or more in width (including space measured around corners) and unbroken along the floor line by doorways and similar openings, fireplaces, and fixed cabinets that do not have countertops or similar work surfaces

* (2) The space occupied by fixed panels in walls, excluding sliding panels

* (3) The space afforded by fixed room dividers, such as freestanding bar-type counters or railings

##### 210.52(A)(3) Floor Receptacles.

Receptacle outlets in or on floors
shall not be counted as part of the required number of receptacle outlets
unless located within 450 mm (18 in.) of the wall.

##### 210.52(A)(4) Countertop and Similar Work Surface Receptacle Outlets.

Receptacles installed for countertop and similar work surfaces as specified in 210.52(C)
shall not be considered as the receptacle outlets required by 210.52(A).

#### 210.52(B) Small Appliances.

##### 210.52(B)(1) Receptacle Outlets Served.

In the kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling unit,
the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits required by 210.11(C)(1)
shall serve all wall and floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A),
all countertop outlets covered by 210.52(C),
and receptacle outlets for refrigeration equipment.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> In addition to the required receptacles specified by 210.52,
> switched receptacles supplied from a general-purpose 15- or 20-ampere branch circuit
> as required in 210.70(A)(1), Exception No. 1, shall be permitted.

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> In addition to the required receptacles specified by 210.52,
> a receptacle outlet to serve a specific appliance
> shall be permitted to be supplied from an individual branch circuit rated 15 amperes or greater.

##### 210.52(B)(2) No Other Outlets.

The two or more small-appliance branch circuits specified in 210.52(B)(1) shall have no other outlets.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> A receptacle installed solely for the electrical supply to and support
> of an electric clock in any of the rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1).

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> Receptacles installed to provide power for supplemental equipment and lighting
> on gas-fired ranges, ovens, or counter-mounted cooking units.

##### 210.52(B)(3) Kitchen Receptacle Requirements.

Receptacles installed in a kitchen to serve countertop surfaces
shall be supplied by not fewer than two small-appliance branch circuits,
either or both of which shall also be permitted to supply receptacle outlets
in the same kitchen and in other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1).
Additional small-appliance branch circuits
shall be permitted to supply receptacle outlets
in the kitchen and other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1).
No small-appliance branch circuit shall serve more than one kitchen.

#### 210.52(C) Countertops and Work Surfaces.

In kitchens, pantries, breakfast rooms, dining rooms, and similar areas of dwelling units,
receptacle outlets for countertop and work surfaces that are 300 mm (12 in.) or wider
shall be installed in accordance with 210.52(C)(1) through (C)(3)
and shall not be considered as the receptacle outlets required by 210.52(A).

For the purposes of this section, where using multioutlet assemblies,
each 300 mm (12 in.) of multioutlet assembly containing two or more receptacles
installed in individual or continuous lengths
shall be considered to be one receptacle outlet.

##### 210.52(C)(1) Wall Spaces.

Receptacle outlets shall be installed
so that no point along the wall line is more than 600 mm (24 in.) measured horizontally
from a receptacle outlet in that space.

> [!important] Exception: ^52c1-ex
> Receptacle outlets shall not be required directly behind a range,
> counter-mounted cooking unit, or sink
> in the installation described in Figure 210.52(C)(1).

##### Figure 210.52(C)(1) Determination of Area Behind a Range, Counter-Mounted Cooking Unit, or Sink.

##### 210.52(C)(2) Island and Peninsular Countertops and Work Surfaces.

Receptacle outlets shall be installed in accordance with 210.52(C)(2)(a) and (C)(2)(b).

(a) At least one receptacle outlet shall be provided for the first 0.84 m (9 ft),
  or fraction thereof, of the countertop or work surface.
  A receptacle outlet shall be provided for every additional 1.7 m (18 ft),
  or fraction thereof, of the countertop or work surface.

(b) At least one receptacle outlet shall be located
  within 600 mm (2 ft) of the outer end
  of a peninsular countertop or work surface.

Additional required receptacle outlets
shall be permitted to be located as determined
by the installer, designer, or building owner.

The location of the receptacle outlets
shall be in accordance with 210.52(C)(3).

A peninsular countertop shall be measured from the connected perpendicular wall.

##### 210.52(C)(3) Receptacle Outlet Location.

Receptacle outlets shall be located in one or more of the following:

1. On or above countertop or work surfaces:
  On or above, but not more than 500 mm (20 in.) above,
  the countertop or work surface.

2. In countertop or work surfaces:
  Receptacle outlet assemblies listed for use in countertops or work surfaces
  shall be permitted to be installed in countertops or work surfaces.

3. Below countertop or works surfaces:
  Not more than 300 mm (12 in.) below the countertop or work surface.
  Receptacles installed below a countertop or work surface
  shall not be located where the countertop or work surface
  extends more than 150 mm (6 in.) beyond its support base.

Receptacle outlets rendered not readily accessible
by appliances fastened in place, appliance garages, sinks,
or rangetops as covered in 210.52(C)(1), Exception,
or appliances occupying assigned spaces
shall not be considered as these required outlets.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> See 406.5(E) and 406.5(G) for installation of receptacles in countertops
> and 406.5(F) and 406.5(G) for installation of receptacles in work surfaces.
> See 380.10 for installation of multioutlet assemblies.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> See Annex J and ANSI/ICC A117.1-2009,
> Standard on Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities.

#### 210.52(D) Bathrooms.

At least one receptacle outlet shall be installed in [[nfpa-70_100_definitions#Bathroom.|bathrooms]]
within 900 mm (3 ft) of the outside edge of each basin.
The receptacle outlet shall be located on a wall or partition
that is adjacent to the basin or basin countertop,
located on the countertop,
or installed on the side or face of the basin cabinet.
In no case shall the receptacle be located more than 300 mm (12 in.)
below the top of the basin or basin countertop.
Receptacle outlet assemblies listed for use in countertops
shall be permitted to be installed in the countertop.

> [!info] Informational Note:
> See 406.5(E) and 406.5(G) for requirements for installation of receptacles in countertops.

#### 210.52(E) Outdoor Outlets.

Outdoor receptacle outlets
shall be installed in accordance with 210.52(E)(1) through (E)(3).

> [!info] Informational Note:
> See [[#210.8(A)(3) |210.8(A)(3)]].

##### 210.52(E)(1) One-Family and Two-Family Dwellings.

For a one-family dwelling
and each unit of a two-family dwelling that is at grade level,
at least one receptacle outlet readily accessible from grade
and not more than 2.0 m (6 1/2 ft) above grade level
shall be installed at the front and back of the dwelling.

##### 210.52(E)(2) Multifamily Dwellings.

For each dwelling unit of a multifamily dwelling
where the dwelling unit is located at grade level
and provided with individual exterior entrance/egress,
at least one receptacle outlet readily accessible from grade
and not more than 2.0 m (6 1/2 ft) above grade level shall be installed.

##### 210.52(E)(3) Balconies, Decks, and Porches.

Balconies, decks, and porches that are within 102 mm (4 in.) horizontally of the dwelling unit
shall have at least one receptacle outlet accessible from the balcony, deck, or porch.
The receptacle outlet shall not be located more than 2.0 m (6 1/2 ft)
above the balcony, deck, or porch walking surface.

#### 210.52(F) Laundry Areas.

In dwelling units, at least one receptacle outlet
shall be installed in areas designated for the installation of laundry equipment.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> A receptacle for laundry equipment
> shall not be required in a dwelling unit of a multifamily building
> where laundry facilities are provided on the premises
> for use by all building occupants.

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> A receptacle for laundry equipment
> shall not be required in other than one-family dwellings
> where laundry facilities are not to be installed or permitted.

#### 210.52(G) Basements, Garages, and Accessory Buildings.

For one and two-family dwellings, and multifamily dwellings,
at least one receptacle outlet shall be installed
in the areas specified in 210.52(G)(1) through (G)(3).
These receptacles shall be in addition to receptacles required for specific equipment.

##### 210.52(G)(1) Garages.

In each attached garage and in each detached garage with electric power,
at least one receptacle outlet shall be installed in each vehicle bay
and not more than 1.7 m (5 1/2 ft) above the floor.

> [!important] Exception:
> Garage spaces not attached to an individual dwelling unit of a multifamily dwelling
> shall not require a receptacle outlet in each vehicle bay.

##### 210.52(G)(2) Accessory Buildings.

In each accessory building with electric power.

##### 210.52(G)(3) Basements.

In each separate unfinished portion of a basement.

#### 210.52(H) Hallways.

In dwelling units, hallways of 3.0 m (10 ft) or more in length shall have at least one receptacle outlet.

As used in this subsection,
the hallway length shall be considered the length along the centerline of the hallway without passing through a doorway.

#### 210.52(I) Foyers.

Foyers that are not part of a hallway in accordance with 210.52(H)
and that have an area that is greater than 5.6 m (60 ft )
shall have a receptacle(s) located in each wall space 900 mm (3 ft) or more in width.
Doorways, door-side windows that extend to the floor, and similar openings shall not be considered wall space.

### 210.60 Guest Rooms, Guest Suites, Dormitory Units, and Similar Occupancies.

#### 210.60(A) General.

Guest rooms or guest suites in hotels or motels, sleeping rooms in dormitory units, and similar occupancies
shall have receptacle outlets installed in accordance with 210.52(A) and (D).
Guest rooms or guest suites provided with permanent provisions for cooking
shall have receptacle outlets installed in accordance with all of the applicable rules in 210.52.

#### 210.60(B) Receptacle Placement.

The total number of receptacle outlets
shall not be less than required in [[#210.52(A) General Provisions.|210.52(A)]]
These receptacle outlets shall be permitted to be located conveniently
for permanent furniture layout.
At least two receptacle outlets shall be readily accessible.
Where receptacles are installed behind the bed,
the receptacle shall be located
to prevent the bed from contacting any attachment plug that may be installed
or the receptacle shall be provided with a suitable guard.

### 210.62 Show Windows.

At least one 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere-rated receptacle outlet
shall be installed within 450 mm (18 in.) of the top of a show window
for each 3.7 linear m (12 linear ft) or major fraction thereof
of show window area measured horizontally at its maximum width.

### 210.63 Equipment Requiring Servicing.

A 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere-rated receptacle outlet
shall be installed at an accessible location
within 7.5 m (25 ft) of the equipment as specified in 210.63(A) and (B).

#### 210.63(A) Heating, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration Equipment.

The required receptacle outlet shall be located on the same level
as the heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration equipment.
The receptacle outlet shall not be connected
to the load side of the equipment's branch-circuit disconnecting means.

Exception:
A receptacle outlet shall not be required
at one- and two-family dwellings for the service of evaporative coolers.

#### 210.63(B) Other Electrical Equipment.

In other than one and two-family dwellings,
a receptacle outlet shall be located as specified in 210.63(B)(1) and (B)(2).

##### 210.63(B)(1) Indoor Service Equipment.

The required receptacle outlet
shall be located within the same room or area as the service equipment.

##### 210.63(B)(2) Indoor Equipment Requiring Dedicated Equipment Spaces.

Where equipment, other than service equipment,
requires dedicated equipment space as specified in [[nfpa-70_110_requirements#110.26(E) Dedicated Equipment Space.|110.26(E)]],
the required receptacle outlet shall be located
within the same room or area as the electrical equipment
and shall not be connected to the load side of the equipment's branch-circuit disconnecting means.

### 210.65 Meeting Rooms.

#### 210.65(A) General.

Each meeting room of not more than 93 m (1000 ft ) in other than dwelling units shall have outlets for nonlocking-type, 125-volt, 15- or 20-ampere receptacles. The outlets shall be installed in accordance with 210.65(B). Where a room or space is provided with movable partition(s), each room size shall be determined with the partition in the position that results in the smallest size meeting room.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> For the purposes of this section, meeting rooms are typically designed or intended for the gathering of seated occupants for such purposes as conferences, deliberations, or similar purposes, where portable electronic equipment such as computers, projectors, or similar equipment is likely to be used.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> Examples of rooms that are not meeting rooms include auditoriums, schoolrooms, and coffee shops.

#### 210.65(B) Receptacle Outlets Required.

The total number of receptacle outlets, including floor outlets and receptacle outlets in fixed furniture, shall not be less than as determined in (1) and (2).

##### 210.65(B)(1) Receptacle Outlets in Fixed Walls.

The required number of receptacle outlets shall be determined in accordance with 210.52(A)(1) through (A)(4). These receptacle outlets shall be permitted to be located as determined by the installer, designer, or building owner.

##### 210.65(B)(2) Floor Outlets.

A meeting room with any floor dimension that is 3.7 m (12 ft) or greater in any direction and that has a floor area of at least 20 m
(215 ft ) shall have at least one floor receptacle outlet, or at least one floor outlet to serve receptacle(s), located at a distance not less than 1.8 m (6 ft) from any fixed wall for each 20 m (215 ft ) or major portion of floor space.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 1:
> See 314.27(B) for floor boxes used for receptacles located in the floor.

> [!info] Informational Note No. 2:
> See Article 518 for assembly occupancies designed for 100 or more persons.

### 210.70 Lighting Outlets Required.

Lighting outlets shall be installed where specified in 210.70(A), (B), and (C).

#### 210.70(A) Dwelling Units.

In dwelling units, lighting outlets shall be installed in accordance with 210.70(A)(1), (A)(2), and (A)(3).

##### 210.70(A)(1) Habitable Rooms.

At least one lighting outlet controlled by a listed wall-mounted control device shall be installed in every habitable room, kitchen, and bathroom. The wall-mounted control device shall be located near an entrance to the room on a wall.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> In other than kitchens and bathrooms, one or more receptacles controlled by a listed wall-mounted control device shall be permitted in lieu of lighting outlets.

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> Lighting outlets shall be permitted to be controlled by occupancy sensors that are (1) in addition to listed wall-mounted control devices or (2) located at a customary wall switch location and equipped with a manual override that will allow the sensor to function as a wall switch.

##### 210.70(A)(2) Additional Locations.

Additional lighting outlets shall be installed in accordance with the following:

* (1) At least one lighting outlet controlled by a listed wall-mounted control device shall be installed in hallways, stairways, attached garages, and detached garages with electric power.

* (2) For dwelling units, attached garages, and detached garages with electric power, at least one lighting outlet controlled by a listed wall-mounted control device shall be installed to provide illumination on the exterior side of outdoor entrances or exits with grade-level access. A vehicle door in a garage shall not be considered as an outdoor entrance or exit.
2 2
2
2
2 2

* (3) Where one or more lighting outlet(s) are installed for interior stairways, there shall be a listed wall-mounted control device at each floor level and landing level that includes an entryway to control the lighting outlet(s) where the stairway between floor levels has six risers or more.

Exception to (A)(2)(1), (A)(2)(2), and (A)(2)(3): In hallways, in stairways, and at outdoor entrances, remote, central, or automatic control of lighting shall be permitted.

* (4) Lighting outlets controlled in accordance with 210.70(A)(2)(3) shall not be controlled by use of listed wall-mounted control devices unless they provide the full range of dimming control at each location.

#### 210.70(B) Guest Rooms or Guest Suites.

In hotels, motels, or similar occupancies, guest rooms or guest suites shall have at least one lighting outlet controlled by a listed wallmounted control device installed in every habitable room and bathroom.

> [!important] Exception No. 1:
> In other than bathrooms and kitchens where provided, one or more receptacles controlled by a listed wall-mounted control device shall be permitted in lieu of lighting outlets.

> [!important] Exception No. 2:
> Lighting outlets shall be permitted to be controlled by occupancy sensors that are (1) in addition to listed wall-mounted control devices or (2) located at a customary wall switch location and equipped with a manual override that allows the sensor to function as a wall switch.

#### 210.70(C) All Occupancies.

For attics and underfloor spaces, utility rooms, and basements, at least one lighting outlet containing a switch or controlled by a wall switch or listed wall-mounted control device shall be installed where these spaces are used for storage or contain equipment requiring servicing. A point of control shall be at each entry that permits access to the attic and underfloor space, utility room, or basement.

Where a lighting outlet is installed for equipment requiring service, the lighting outlet shall be installed at or near the equipment.
