I can't find in the NEC where it says how far switches have to be away from tubs and showers. The only thing I found is that they can't be in the shower unless they were made there. I smoke to an inspector today and he says there is no code. So where are all these people getting info that they have to be either 3 feet or 5 feet away?
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Switches near tubs and showers
- Thread starter usmcray
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BAHTAH
Senior Member
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Re: Switches near tubs and showers
If you look at 410.4(D) you will see a restricted zone that applies to certain types of lighting fixtures. This zone extends 3ft from the edge of the tub, however it only applies to light fixtures and is not mentioned as far as I know in 404. Some inspectors and others may be looking at the fixture article and thinking it should apply to switches.
If you look at 410.4(D) you will see a restricted zone that applies to certain types of lighting fixtures. This zone extends 3ft from the edge of the tub, however it only applies to light fixtures and is not mentioned as far as I know in 404. Some inspectors and others may be looking at the fixture article and thinking it should apply to switches.
bill addiss
Senior Member
Re: Switches near tubs and showers
usmcray,
You have to realize that there could be some local restrictions on this. The code is not the same all over. We can debate what the NEC says, but that may not be the rule in all areas so we end up comparing Apples and Oranges.
Bill
usmcray,
You have to realize that there could be some local restrictions on this. The code is not the same all over. We can debate what the NEC says, but that may not be the rule in all areas so we end up comparing Apples and Oranges.
Bill
Re: Switches near tubs and showers
The county inspector I spoke to says there is no code but he did say that he likes to see the switches far enough away to where you can't reach them while standing in water. He also says that he would never fail a house if the switches were next to the tub or shower as long as they are not in the tub/shower. 404.4 states: Switches shall not be installed within wet locations in tub or shower spaces unless installed as part of a listed tub or shower assembly.
But it doesn't say how far away is safe.
The county inspector I spoke to says there is no code but he did say that he likes to see the switches far enough away to where you can't reach them while standing in water. He also says that he would never fail a house if the switches were next to the tub or shower as long as they are not in the tub/shower. 404.4 states: Switches shall not be installed within wet locations in tub or shower spaces unless installed as part of a listed tub or shower assembly.
But it doesn't say how far away is safe.
bill addiss
Senior Member
Re: Switches near tubs and showers
I agree with your inspectors' viewpoints and interpretation on this.
I've noticed areas where it seems to be common practice to put the Bathroom light switch outside the room, but don't know if that's local code or custom. Does anyone know anywhere that's required?
Bill
I agree with your inspectors' viewpoints and interpretation on this.
I've noticed areas where it seems to be common practice to put the Bathroom light switch outside the room, but don't know if that's local code or custom. Does anyone know anywhere that's required?
Bill
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