NEC receptacle-spacing-guide

Receptacle Spacing Rules - 2', 6' & 12' Requirements

Complete code requirements, compliance guidance, and professional analysis

Code Requirements Summary

This comprehensive guide explains the NEC receptacle spacing requirements including the 2-foot kitchen rule, 6-foot general spacing rule, and 12-foot maximum spacing, detailing which rooms and areas each requirement applies to in dwelling units.

Professional Requirements

  • Apply 2-foot rule (24-inch spacing) to all kitchen countertop wall spaces
  • Apply 6-foot rule to all habitable rooms ensuring no point on wall space exceeds 6 feet from receptacle
  • Understand that 12-foot spacing is the maximum distance, achieved by 6-foot rule implementation
  • Install receptacles in hallways 10 feet or longer per specific NEC requirements
  • Provide bathroom receptacles within 3 feet of sink basins
  • Follow specific spacing rules for outdoor areas, garages, and basements

Technical Explanation

The NEC receptacle spacing rules are designed to minimize extension cord use and improve electrical safety. The 2-foot rule applies specifically to kitchen countertops due to high appliance concentration. The 6-foot rule ensures that in any habitable room, no point along the wall is more than 6 feet from a receptacle, effectively creating 12-foot maximum spacing between outlets. These rules recognize different usage patterns: kitchens need frequent access to power, while living areas need convenient access without excessive outlets.

Industry Applications

Residential electrical design and outlet layout planning
New home construction electrical rough-in planning
Electrical permit applications and plan review processes
Home renovation and addition electrical upgrades
Code compliance verification for dwelling unit electrical systems
Electrical inspection preparation and outlet count verification

Compliance Analysis Tool

Professional Resources

NEC 2023 State Adoption Status

States Enforcing 2023 NEC:

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Related Code Requirements

NEC 210.52(A)(1)->
NEC 210.52(A)(2)(1)->
NEC 210.52(H)->

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Important Disclaimers

Copyright Notice:The National Electrical Code (NEC) is copyrighted by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). This page provides professional analysis and interpretation for educational purposes only. For official code text, consult NFPA 70.

Professional Use Notice:This analysis tool provides technical guidance based on standard NEC requirements. Local codes, amendments, and AHJ interpretations may supersede national standards.

Compliance Verification:This tool offers preliminary compliance assessment. Final code compliance must be verified by licensed professionals and local inspectors.

Professional Responsibility:Licensed electricians remain fully responsible for code compliance, safety, and proper installation practices regardless of tool recommendations.

Jurisdiction Variations:Code requirements vary significantly by location. Always consult local electrical codes, amendments, and Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements.

No Warranty:This tool is provided for informational purposes only. Code Buddy makes no warranties regarding accuracy, completeness, or suitability for specific applications.

Professional Support: For complex installations or code interpretations, consult with Code Buddy's expert AI system or licensed electrical professionals.