210.70(B) Lighting Outlets Required. Guest Rooms or Guest Suites.
Code Change Summary: Revised code language addresses guest room 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 guest rooms and guest suites of hotels and the like. 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(B) Guest Rooms or Guest Suites. In hotels, motels, or similar occupancies, guest rooms or guest suites shall have at least one wall switch–controlled lighting outlet installed in every habitable room and bathroom.
Exception No. 1: In other than bathrooms and kitchens where provided, one or more receptacles controlled by a wall switch shall be permitted in lieu of lighting outlets.
Exception No. 2: Lighting outlets shall be permitted to be controlled by occupancy sensors that are (1) in addition to wall switches or (2) located at a customary wall switch location and equipped with a manual override that allows the sensor to function as a wall switch.
2020 Code Language:
210.70(B) Guest Rooms or Guest Suites. In hotels, motels, or similar occupancies, guest rooms or guest suites shall have at least one lighting outlet controlled by a listed wall-mounted control device installed in every habitable room and bathroom.
Exception No. 1: In other than bathrooms and kitchens where provided, one or more receptacles controlled by a listed wall-mounted control device shall be permitted in lieu of lighting outlets.
Exception No. 2: Lighting outlets shall be permitted to be controlled by occupancy sensors that are (1) in addition to listed wall-mounted control devices or (2) located at a customary wall switch location and equipped with a manual override that allows the sensor to function as a wall switch.