Code Change Summary: Stationary appliances are no longer part of “wall space” for the purpose of receptacle placement in dwelling units.

In the 2023 NEC^®, a Public Input (PI) was accepted to add the words “stationary appliances” to Section 210.52(A)(2)(1). This section is all about determining what is considered “wall space” in a dwelling unit to ensure receptacles are placed in convenient locations thus avoiding the use of extension cords to reach other receptacles that may not be nearby.

For dwelling units, Section 250.52(A) and (A)(1) require receptacles to be spaced so that no point can be measured horizontally along the floor line of any “wall space” and found to be more than 6 feet from a receptacle outlet. This is required for every kitchen, family room, dining room, living room, parlor, library, den, sunroom, bedroom, recreation room, or similar room or area of dwelling units. Basically, no matter where a person stands along a wall, they should be able to find a receptacle within 6 feet of where they are.

In the 2023 NEC^®, Section 210.52(A)(2) describes “wall space” as any space 2 feet or more in width (including space measured around corners) and unbroken along the floor line by doorways, similar openings, fireplaces, stationary appliances, and fixed cabinets (without countertops or similar work surfaces).

The purpose of adding “stationary appliances” to the list of items considered to break up or divide the wall space is to ensure that additional receptacles are not required to be installed in locations where they really aren’t needed but might be required by those enforcing the NEC^® based on the language rather than the intent (see image).

Sometimes the layout of a kitchen or other room in a dwelling can push the code language to the limits when trying to install receptacles in compliance with the rules in Section 210.52. Often the words used for the code language, or the way the words are arranged can get in the way of what the code section is trying to accomplish.

Below is a preview of the NEC^®. See the actual NEC^® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2023 NEC^® edition of NFPA 70.