Code Change Summary: A new code section was added to address low voltage luminaires installed adjacent to the pool.

For many years, the only code language addressing low voltage lighting near the pool was located in 411.5(B) which requires lighting around pools, spas, fountains, and similar locations. to be installed at least 10 ft. horizontally from the nearest edge of the water, unless permitted by Article 680.

Now, a new section was made in article 680 to address low voltage lighting installed next to the pool. Section 680.22(B)(6) allows a listed low voltage luminaire to be installed even closer than 5 ft. from the pool edge if it complies with all of the following:

• It must be a listed low voltage luminaire that does not require grounding.
• It must be within a voltage range not to exceed the low voltage contact limits specified in 680.2.
• It must be supplied by a listed transformer complying with 680.23(A)(2).

The best way to know if the luminaire complies with all of the above is to check the manufacturers installation instructions. As well, the UL standard for these luminaires states that if the fixture does not require grounding, it is not permitted to be equipped with a grounding terminal.

According to UL product category WDGV, if the transformer complies with 680.23(A)(2) then it will be marked with one of the following on the product:

• Fountain, Swimming Pool or Spa Transformer
• Fountain Transformer
• Spa Transformer
• Swimming Pool Transformer

Below is a preview of the NEC^®.  See the actual NEC^® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on the “free access” tab and select the applicable year of NFPA 70 (National Electrical code).