Thread: Habitable space lighting requirements, switched lights.

Does anyone know when it was first required that you need a switched light in a room. I see the 210.70 first shows in 1981 NEC but was there another requirement that predates this?

Originally Posted by Don Hester

Does anyone know when it was first required that you need a switched light in a room. I see the 210.70 first shows in 1981 NEC but was there another requirement that predates this?

That would be 210-26 in the 1975 NEC.

That required lighting fixture locations was added to the 1975 NEC.

Jerry, Thank you so much. I have a gap in my code books there. Looks like I need a 75 code book

Just a side comment. The requirement is for a switch controlled lighting outlet, not an actual fixture.

Originally Posted by Jim Port

Just a side comment. The requirement is for a switch controlled lighting outlet, not an actual fixture.

Right, for a wall switch controlled lighting outlet
- From the 1975 NEC
- - 210-26. Lighting Outlets Required. Lighting outlets shall be installed where specified in (a) and (b) below:
- - - (a) Dwelling-Type Occupancies. At least one wall switch controlled lighting outlet shall be installed in every habitable room; in hallways, stairways, and attached garages; and at outdoor entrances.
- - - - - At least one lighting outlet shall be installed in an attic, underfloor space, utility room and basement where used for storage or containing equipment requiring servicing.
- - - - Exception No. 1: In habitable rooms, other than kitchens or bathrooms, one or more receptacles controlled by a wall switch shall be permitted in lieu of lighting outlets.
- - - - Exception No. 2: In hallways, stairways, and at outdoor entrances remote, central, or automatic control of lighting shall be permitted.
- - - (b) Guest Rooms. At least one wall switch controlled lighting outlet or wall switch controlled receptacle shall be installed in guest rooms in hotels, motels, or similar occupancies.

Jim, Good point and correct. I know sometimes when I ask some questions that I am being a bit loose with terminology/definition.