210.62 Show Windows.

At least one 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere receptacle is required within 18 inches of the top of each show window.
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At least one 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere receptacle is required within 18 inches of the top of each show window.

Code Change Summary: The number of receptacles required for a show window is now determined differently.

A show window is the area at the front of a store for displaying merchandise. A code change in 2017 to the definition made it clear that show windows also include the area above the door.

In the 2020 NEC®, receptacle requirements for a show window were determined based on each 12 linear feet or major fraction thereof of show window area, measured horizontally at its maximum width.

In the 2023 NEC®, the confusing method to determine receptacle requirements for show windows has been changed and is now significantly easier to comprehend.

Now, at least one 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere receptacle is required within 18 inches of the top of each show window, and there must be no point along the top of the window that is farther than 6 feet from a receptacle outlet.

The NEC® has specific rules for show windows:

Below is a preview of the NEC®. See the actual NEC® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2023 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.

2020 Code Language:

210.62 Show Windows. At least one 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere-rated receptacle outlet shall be installed within 18 inches of the top of a show window for each 12 linear feet or major fraction thereof of show window area measured horizontally at its maximum width.

2023 Code Language:

210.62 Show Windows. At least one 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere-rated receptacle outlet shall be installed within 18 inches of the top of each show window. No point along the top of the window shall be farther than 6 feet from a receptacle outlet.

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210.62 Show Windows.

Below is a Real Question from our Electrical Continuing Education Courses for Electrical License Renewal:

Based on the 2023 NEC, which of the following is required of show windows?

A: Each show window requires at least 4 receptacles.
B: Each show window requires at least 3 receptacles.
C: Each show window requires at least 2 receptacles.
D: At least one 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere receptacle is required within 18 inches of the top of each show window.
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