210.12(D) AFCI Protection. Branch Circuit Extensions or Modifications - Dwelling Units and Dormitory Units.

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An exception allows a branch circuit extension up to a 6 ft. to remain without the need to install AFCI protection, as long as no additional outlets or devices are installed.

Code Change Summary: Revised code language now requires AFCI protection when modifying or extending specific circuits in a dormitory room.

In the 2011 NEC^®, the following rules were put in place to require AFCI protection for extended or modified branch circuits in dwelling units:

“In any of the areas specified in 210.12(A), where branch-circuit wiring is modified, replaced, or extended, the branch circuit shall be protected by one of the following:

(1) A listed combination-type AFCI located at the origin of the branch circuit.

(2) A listed outlet branch-circuit type AFCI located at the first receptacle outlet of the existing branch circuit”.

In the 2017 NEC^®, the above rules were expanded to include any modified or extended 120-volt branch circuit wiring in dorm rooms.

This applies even in older dorm rooms that were built long before AFCI protection first appeared in the code book.

In a dormitory room, AFCI protection is required for 120-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets and devices installed in dormitory bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, closets, bathrooms, and similar rooms.

An exception allows a branch circuit extension up to a 6 ft. to remain without the need to install AFCI protection, as long as no additional outlets or devices are installed. This gives a bit of relief for older homes and dorm rooms where a fuse box is replaced with a newer panelboard. As long as branch circuits are not extended more than 6 ft. to make terminations on the new circuit breakers, AFCI protection is not required.

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.