Code Change Summary: A new code section was added to require GFCI protection for lighting outlets in crawl spaces.

Lighting outlets, not exceeding 120 volts, in a crawl space now require GFCI protection. Most likely, the electrician will just supply them through a switch fed from the load side of a GFCI protected receptacle in the crawl space to comply with the new requirement. Another option is to use a GFCI type circuit breaker where the branch circuit originates.

It is important to keep in mind that Article 100 defines an “Outlet” as “A point on the wiring system at which current is taken to supply utilization equipment”. Many people think that only receptacles are considered outlets. A lighting “outlet” in a crawl space is any luminaire or light fixture located in the crawl space.

This code change is not specific to dwellings or non-dwellings. It applies straight across the board to any crawl space.

The intent of the change was to protect those working in the crawl space from accidentally breaking an unprotected lamp and getting shocked from the exposed filament. Many have argued that it would be better to properly protect the lamp if it is exposed to physical damage rather than risking being in the dark if the crawl space luminaire goes off after the GFCI device trips.

Below is a preview of Article 210. See the actual NEC^® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2017 NEC^® edition of NFPA 70.