What is the required distance that outlets must be placed from the floor in living spaces according to NEC?

According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), outlets in living spaces must be installed at a height that is accessible and practical for use. The requirement specifies that the height should be between 12 inches and 48 inches above the finished floor. This range is designed to ensure convenience for general access, ensuring that outlets are reachable for plugging in devices, while also providing a balance to prevent them from being too low (which could pose hazards or accessibility issues) or too high (which could make them impractical for everyday use).

By requiring outlets to be placed within this range, the NEC aims to promote safety and functionality in residential wiring, recognizing that different spaces may have different needs based on furniture layouts and usage. Devices such as lamps, chargers, and appliances are typically designed with the expectation that the outlets they connect to will be positioned within this accessible height. This standard is widely adopted and recognized for ensuring the usability of electrical installations in living environments.