What is the National Electrical Code (NEC)?

What is the NEC?

The National Electrical Code (NEC) outlines the guidelines and regulations that inform electricians how to install and use electrical wiring and equipment. It lays out standards and best practices for electrical systems in structures like homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities.

Experts and engineers from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) update the NEC every three years. Revisions address new technologies and reflect the latest safety research. The rulebook covers everything from the wires inside walls to lighting systems, generators, batteries, and solar panels.

The National Electrical Code specifies the proper size and type of wires electricians should use. It dictates how electricians should install wires, the required clearances around electrical equipment, labeling standards for circuit breakers, and mandatory electrical safety protections.

Most American cities, counties, and states legally enforce the National Electrical Code by including it in their building codes. Following the NEC rules helps reduce fires, shock hazards, and other electrical risks. In turn, it makes things safer for electricians working on systems and residents using electricity in buildings.

Is the National Electrical Code a law?

The National Electrical Code is not a law or set of laws. However, many places around the United States use rules from the National Electrical Code in their local legislation.

The rulebook helps electricians know the right way to operate, even when not enforced by law. 

What are the two basic rule types in the NEC? 

The NEC contains two rule types that electricians need to pay attention to, mandatory and permissive rules. The NEC indicates these by specific wording.

Mandatory rules use terms like "shall" or "shall not." For example, "Electrical panels shall have a clear working space 36 inches wide and 30 inches deep in front of them". Mandatory statements like this describe required actions or prohibited actions. Electricians must follow these rules to be compliant.

Permissive rules use the phrasing "shall be permitted." For example, "In unfinished basements, exposed Romex wiring shall be permitted." Permissive statements indicate options that are allowed but not necessarily required. Electricians can choose to implement these statements, but they don't have to.