210.70(A)(2) Lighting Outlets Required. Additional Locations.
Code Change Summary: Revised code language addresses lighting control devices other than a hard-wired wall switch.
In the 2020 NEC®, language was accepted to allow a “listed wall-mounted control device” where a wall switch is normally required in nonhabitable areas not covered in 210.70(A)(1). The previous requirement for a “switch” didn’t technically allow for automated or voice-controlled devices or devices on the wall that can communicate through low voltage signal circuits to a remote lighting contactor.
The revised code language permits lighting control technology that is currently available and already being installed in dwellings and commercial buildings today. Permitting wireless communication to a controller for lighting in the NEC® also aligns with the application of wireless communication for life safety fire alarms already permitted in NFPA 72.
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.
2017 Code Language:
210.70(A)(2) Additional Locations. Additional lighting outlets shall be installed in accordance with the following:
(1) At least one wall switch–controlled lighting outlet shall be installed in hallways, stairways, attached garages, and detached garages with electric power.
(2) For dwelling units, attached garages, and detached garages with electric power, at least one wall switch– controlled lighting outlet shall be installed to provide illumination on the exterior side of outdoor entrances or exits with grade-level access. A vehicle door in a garage shall not be considered as an outdoor entrance or exit.
(3) Where one or more lighting outlet(s) are installed for interior stairways, there shall be a wall switch at each floor level, and landing level that includes an entryway, to control the lighting outlet(s) where the stairway between floor levels has six risers or more.
Exception to (A)(2)(1), (A)(2)(2), and (A)(2)(3): In hallways, in stairways, and at outdoor entrances, remote, central, or automatic control of lighting shall be permitted.
(4) Lighting outlets controlled in accordance with 210.70(A)(2)(3) shall not be controlled by use of dimmer switches unless they provide the full range of dimming control at each location.
2020 Code Language:
210.70(A)(2) Additional Locations. Additional lighting outlets shall be installed in accordance with the following:
(1) At least one lighting outlet controlled by a listed wall-mounted control device shall be installed in hallways, stairways, attached garages, and detached garages with electric power.
(2) For dwelling units, attached garages, and detached garages with electric power, at least one lighting outlet controlled by a listed wall-mounted control device shall be installed to provide illumination on the exterior side of outdoor entrances or exits with grade-level access. A vehicle door in a garage shall not be considered as an outdoor entrance or exit.
(3) Where one or more lighting outlet(s) are installed for interior stairways, there shall be a listed wall-mounted control device at each floor level and landing level that includes an entryway to control the lighting outlet(s) where the stairway between floor levels has six risers or more.
Exception to (A)(2)(1), (A)(2)(2), and (A)(2)(3): In hallways, in stairways, and at outdoor entrances, remote, central, or automatic control of lighting shall be permitted.
(4) Lighting outlets controlled in accordance with 210.70(A)(2)(3) shall not be controlled by use of listed wall-mounted control devices unless they provide the full range of dimming control at each location.