Garage and outdoor receptacles wrapper
Why you care (60 seconds)
Garage and outdoor receptacle requirements are common inspection items. Missing an outlet or protection requirement can trigger rework.
Where people lose time
- Forgetting required exterior receptacle locations.
- Treating garage outlets as optional in attached structures.
- Missing GFCI requirements for garage and outdoor outlets.
This is
The rule in plain language
Provide required receptacle outlets in garages and outdoor locations with the appropriate protection and placement.
When it applies
Dwelling garages, carports, and required exterior locations.
What you must do (checklist)
- Install required garage receptacle outlets.
- Provide required outdoor receptacle outlets.
- Apply GFCI protection as required.
- Confirm placement meets location rules.
Quick examples
- A dwelling garage requires at least one receptacle outlet.
- Exterior outlets require GFCI and proper weatherproofing.
This is not
Common misreads
- Using an outdoor receptacle to satisfy garage requirements.
- Treating a receptacle near a door as an outdoor outlet.
What it doesn't cover
- Weatherproof cover requirements in detail.
- Dedicated circuits for EV charging or equipment.
False friends
- A receptacle inside a garage does not satisfy an outdoor requirement.
Exceptions & edge cases
- Some structures have unique receptacle placement requirements.
- Certain locations require additional protection or covers.
Cross-references (NEC map)
- Primary: 210.52(G), 210.52(E)
- Secondary: 210.8
Exam traps
- Missing the minimum required number of outdoor outlets.
- Forgetting GFCI requirements in garages.
Field notes
- Mark exterior outlet locations on the elevation plan.
- Coordinate garage receptacle placement with storage and doors.
AHJ / Local amendments notes (placeholder)
- Add local amendments or interpretations here.
Revision notes
- Draft wrapper created for garage and outdoor receptacle fundamentals.