The code requirements for installing electrical outlets are primarily defined by the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local building regulations. Adhering to these codes ensures the safety and functionality of your electrical system. Here are the key requirements:1. Outlet Spacing in Living AreasGeneral Spacing: Outlets must be placed no more than 12 feet apart in any habitable room, such as living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. This ensures that no point along a wall is more than 6 feet from an outlet.Wall Length Consideration: Walls 2 feet or longer must have at least one outlet.Hallways: Hallways that are 10 feet or longer must have at least one outlet installed.2. GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) ProtectionGFCI outlets are required in areas with potential exposure to water, including:BathroomsKitchens (Countertops)GaragesBasementsOutdoor AreasLaundry RoomsGFCIs are designed to shut off power instantly if a ground fault is detected, preventing electrical shock. All outlets in these areas must be replaced with GFCIs or protected by a GFCI circuit breaker​.3. AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) ProtectionAFCI outlets or breakers are required in areas prone to arc faults, which can lead to electrical fires. The NEC mandates AFCI protection in:BedroomsLiving RoomsDensClosetsThis protection is usually achieved through AFCI circuit breakers, but AFCI outlets can also be used to meet this requirement in certain cases.4. Outlet Height RequirementsStandard Height: The typical height for installing outlets in general rooms is 12-18 inches above the floor.Kitchens and Counters: Outlets should be installed no more than 20 inches above the countertop surface to meet code requirements. If the countertop space is longer than 12 inches, it must have its own dedicated outlet.Outdoor Outlets: Must be installed at least 12 inches above ground level and must be GFCI protected​.5. Tamper-Resistant ReceptaclesAll new installations in homes must use tamper-resistant (TR) receptacles. These outlets have internal shutters that prevent children from inserting foreign objects, significantly reducing the risk of electrical shock.Tamper-resistant outlets are required in all standard 15A and 20A, 125V outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and common areas​.6. Special Requirements for KitchensOutlets should be installed along countertops so that no point is more than 24 inches from an outlet.Kitchen islands and peninsulas also require dedicated outlets, depending on the length of the surface.Any outlet within 6 feet of a sink must be GFCI-protected.7. Specialty Circuits for Large AppliancesHigh-draw appliances like stoves, dryers, and HVAC units require dedicated outlets with higher amperage ratings (e.g., 30A or 50A). These should be installed based on the manufacturer’s specifications and connected to dedicated circuits.8. Accessibility and Usability ConsiderationsOutlets installed outdoors or in wet locations should be housed in weatherproof boxes with “in-use” covers that protect the outlet even when a plug is inserted.Outlets in areas such as garages should be elevated to reduce the risk of contact with water or flammable substances​.If you’re unsure about specific requirements, always refer to the most recent version of the NEC or contact us to ensure compliance and safety.