Code Change Summary: New code section. GFCI protection is now required for service receptacles required by Section 210.63.

NEC Section 210.63 requires a 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere-rated service receptacle located within 25 feet of the following:

• Heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration equipment (other than evaporative coolers for one- and two-family dwellings)
• Indoor service equipment (other than one- and two-family dwellings)
• Equipment requiring dedicated space such as switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, motor control centers (other than one- and two-family dwellings)

In the 2020 NEC^®, the above-mentioned service receptacle will require GFCI protection regardless of whether it is outside, inside, in an attic or in an electrical equipment room that is considered a dry location.

The committee statement regarding the addition of GFCI protection for these service receptacles expressed that the receptacles required in Section 210.63 are required specifically for the purpose of providing the maintenance worker with access to power for the use of portable tools. These receptacles are permitted to be located up to 25 feet away from the equipment requiring servicing which often results in the use of an extension cord, which can increase the hazard. For these reasons, GFCI protection will now be required for these service receptacles.

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 2020 NEC^® edition of NFPA 70.