User: RunEMT, Location: 07675
Asked on: Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 6:54 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 6:54 pm EDT
Question: Do receptacles in residential garages have any height restrictions like they must be mounted above 18"?
In residential garages, receptacles are generally not required to be mounted above a specific height like 18 inches, except when they are serving countertops. Here's a breakdown: General Receptacles
There's no minimum mounting height requirement for general-purpose receptacles in a residential garage. They can be placed at any convenient height, although most electricians install them at a standard height above the floor.
Countertop Receptacles
If a receptacle is intended to serve a countertop surface (e.g., a workbench), then the National Electrical Code (NEC) requires it to be installed so that no point along the wall line is more than 24 inches horizontally from a receptacle outlet. While the code doesn't specify a height for these countertop receptacles, local codes may.
GFCI Protection
All 125-volt, 15- or 20-ampere receptacles in garages must have ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection.
Local Codes
It's always essential to check with your local building department or electrical inspector, as they may have specific requirements that exceed the NEC. They may have local amendments that specify mounting heights or other requirements.*
Safety Considerations: While not a code requirement, mounting receptacles higher (e.g., above a workbench or out of reach of young children) can be a good safety practice.In summary, while there's no general minimum height requirement, consider the intended use of the receptacle (countertop vs. general use) and always check your local codes for any specific requirements. Remember GFCI protection is mandatory for most receptacles in garages. Flag for review