GFCI Protection Requirements 2023 NEC - Every Location That Requires It

GFCI requirements have expanded with every NEC cycle, and the 2023 code is no exception. In dwelling units, GFCI is required at: bathrooms, garages, outdoors, crawl spaces, unfinished basements, kitchen countertops within 6 feet of a sink, boathouses, pool/spa areas, and now with the 2023 update - any 125V through 250V receptacle in those locations (not just 15A/20A anymore).

Commercial got hit harder. 210.8(B) now covers essentially all 125V-250V receptacles in commercial occupancies, with some specific exceptions for dedicated equipment. If you’re doing tenant improvements or commercial remodels, budget for GFCI breakers or devices - the scope is much larger than most estimators account for.

One pro tip that saves install time: use GFCI breakers at the panel instead of individual GFCI devices when you’ve got multiple outlets to protect on one circuit. It’s more expensive upfront but faster to install and easier to troubleshoot. The downside is that a nuisance trip kills the whole circuit instead of just one outlet - know your customer’s tolerance for that before you spec it.