Code Change Summary: Revised code language on dwelling unit garage branch circuits.

There were 11 public inputs during the 2020 code cycle requesting clarification of Section 210.11(C)(4). Many code experts felt that this section required any 120-volt receptacle installed in a dwelling unit garage to be supplied by a 20-amp branch circuit and that a 120-volt, 15-amp branch circuit supplying receptacles in a garage was not allowed.

In the 2020 NEC^®, it has been made clear that as long as at least one receptacle outlet is installed in each vehicle bay to satisfy Section 210.52(G)(1) below, and supplied from a 120-volt, 20-ampere branch circuit, any other receptacles installed in the garage could be supplied by other than a 120-volt, 20-amp branch circuit.

210.52(G)(1) Garages. In each attached garage and in each detached garage with electric power, at least one receptacle outlet shall be installed in each vehicle bay and not more than 1.7 m (5 ½ ft) above the floor.

Exception: Garage spaces not attached to an individual dwelling unit of a multifamily dwelling shall not require a receptacle outlet in each vehicle bay.

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.