Q. Where is arc fault circuit interrupter protection required by the NEC?
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Underlined text indicates a change in the rules for the 2017 NEC.
A. Arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protection must be provided in accordance with Sec. 210.12(A), (B), and (C). AFCI devices must be installed in readily accessible locations.
(A) Required Locations. A listed combination AFCI breaker is required for all 15A or 20A, 120V branch circuits in dwelling units supplying outlets or devices in kitchens, family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, laundry areas, or similar rooms or areas.
(B) Dormitory Units. A listed combination AFCI breaker is required for all 15A or 20A, 120V branch circuits for outlets and devices in dormitory unit bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, closets, bathrooms, and similar rooms in accordance with Sec. 210.12(A).
(C) Guest Rooms and Guest Suites. A listed combination AFCI breaker is required for all 15A or 20A, 120V branch circuits supplying outlets and devices in guest rooms and guest suites of hotels and motels in accordance with Sec. 210.12(A).
(D) Branch‑Circuit Extensions or Modifications in Dwelling Units and Dormitory Units. Where 15A or 20A, 120V branch‑circuit wiring is modified, replaced, or extended in a dwelling unit or dormitory where AFCI protection is required [210.12(A)], the modified, replaced, or extended branch‑circuit wiring must be AFCI protected by one of the following methods:
(1) A listed combination AFCI circuit breaker
(2) A listed AFCI receptacle located at the first receptacle outlet of the branch circuit
Exception: AFCI protection isn’t required for extension wiring that’s less than 6 ft in length if no outlets or devices are added.
About the Author
Mike Holt
Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.