Code Q&A

Q. Can a receptacle that is installed on the exterior side of an attached garage be used as the required outdoor receptacle for a dwelling unit, or must that receptacle be mounted on the house itself?

A. Two GFCI-protected 15A or 20A, 125V receptacle outlets that are accessible while standing at grade level must be installed outdoors for each dwelling unit — one at the front and one at the back (no more than 6½ ft above grade). The Code doesn't specify that the receptacle be installed on the dwelling.