NEC® Changes · 2023 NEC®

406.9 Damp and wet locations

RevisedChanged in the 2023 NEC® (from the 2020 NEC®)· Updated October 24, 2026

What changed in 406.9

Damp and wet location cover rules were reworked, all other wet-location receptacles must now be weather-resistant, and the tub and shower zone was clarified and got three new exceptions.

Point by point

  • Wet locations, 15- and 20-amp at 125 or 250 volts: in-use cover, extra-duty listed hood, or another listed product giving equal protection.

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  • 4 more points on exactly what changed
  • The 2020 rule next to the 2023 rule, side by side
  • Why it changed
  • What to do and check on the job

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This section across NEC® editions

2020 NEC®Revised

Receptacles are now kept out of a zone 3 feet out and 8 feet up from a bathtub or shower, with an exception for small bathrooms.

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2023 NEC®RevisedYou're here

Damp and wet location cover rules were reworked, all other wet-location receptacles must now be weather-resistant, and the tub and shower zone was clarified and got three new exceptions.

2026 NEC®No change

This section did not change from 2023 to 2026.

More 2023 changes in Article 406

This is a plain-English summary, not the NEC®'s exact wording. Always check the full section in the NEC® edition your area has adopted, plus any local amendments.

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