Chapter 42 Swimming Pools

The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the construction and installation of electric wiring and equipment associated with all swimming pools, wading pools, decorative pools, hot tubs and spas, and hydromassage bathtubs, whether permanently installed or storable, and shall apply to metallic auxiliary equipment, such as pumps, filters and similar equipment. Sections E4202 through E4206 provide general rules for permanent pools, spas and hot tubs. Section E4207 provides specific rules for storable pools and storable/portable spas and hot tubs. Section E4208 provides specific rules for spas and hot tubs. Section E4209 provides specific rules for hydromassage bathtubs. (680.1)

Wiring methods used in conjunction with permanently installed swimming pools, spas or hot tubs that are installed in corrosive environments described in Section E4202.2 shall comply with Table E4202.1, Sections E4202.2 and E4205 and Chapter 38 except as otherwise stated in this section. Wiring methods used in conjunction with permanently installed swimming pools, spas or hot tubs that are not installed in corrosive environments shall comply with Chapter 38. Storable swimming pools shall comply with Section E4207.

Hydromassage bathtubs shall comply with Section E4209. [680.7, 680.14, 680.21(A), 680.23(B) and (F), 680.25(A), 680.42, 680.43 and 680.70]

Wiring methods in a corrosive environment shall be listed and suitable for use in such areas. Rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit, reinforced thermosetting resin conduit and liquidtight flexible nonmetallic conduit shall be considered suitable for the use. Aluminum conduit and tubing shall not be used. [680.14(A)]

Other equipment shall be suitable for use in corrosive environments or be installed in identified corrosion-resistant enclosures. Equipment listed for pool and spa use shall be considered suitable for the use. [680.14(B)]

Flexible cords used in conjunction with a pool, spa, hot tub or hydromassage bathtub shall be installed in accordance with the following:

1. 1.

   For other than underwater luminaires, fixed or stationary equipment shall be permitted to be connected with a flexible cord and plug to facilitate removal or disconnection for maintenance or repair. For other than storable pools, the flexible cord shall not exceed 3 feet (914 mm) in length. Cords that supply swimming pool equipment shall have a copper equipment grounding conductor not smaller than 12 AWG and shall terminate in a grounding-type attachment plug. [680.8(A) and (B) and 680.21(A)(2)]

2. 2.

   Other than listed low-voltage lighting systems not requiring grounding, wet-niche luminaires that are supplied by a flexible cord or cable shall have all exposed noncurrent-carrying metal parts connected to an insulated copper equipment grounding conductor that is an integral part of the cord or cable. This equipment grounding conductor shall be connected to a grounding terminal in the supply junction box, transformer enclosure or other enclosure. The equipment grounding conductor shall be not smaller than the supply conductors and not smaller than 16 AWG. [680.23(B)(3)]

3. 3.

   A listed packaged spa or hot tub installed outdoors that is ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected shall be permitted to be cord-and-plug-connected provided that such cord does not exceed 15 feet (4572 mm) in length. [680.42(A)(2)]

4. 4.

   A listed packaged spa or hot tub rated at 20 amperes or less and installed indoors shall be permitted to be cord-and-plug-connected to facilitate maintenance and repair. (680.43 Exception No. 1)

5. 5.

   For other than underwater and storable pool lighting luminaire, the requirements of Item 1 shall apply to any cord-equipped luminaire that is located within 16 feet (4877 mm) radially from any point on the water surface. [680.22(B)(5)]

A listed cord-and-plug-connected pool pump incorporating an approved system of double insulation that provides a means for grounding only the internal and nonaccessible, noncurrent-carrying metal parts of the pump shall be connected to any wiring method recognized in Chapter 38 that is suitable for the location. Where the equipment grounding conductor of the motor circuit is connected to the equipotential bonding means in accordance with Section E4204.2, Item 6.1, the branch circuit wiring shall comply with Sections E4202.1 and E4205.5. [680.21(B)]

Receptacles outlets shall be installed and located in accordance with Sections E4203.1.1 through E4203.1.7. In determining the dimensions in this section addressing receptacle spacings, the distance to be measured shall be the shortest path the supply cord of an appliance connected to the receptacle would follow without piercing a floor, wall, ceiling, doorway with hinged or sliding door, window opening or other effective permanent barrier. [680.22(A)(5)]

Switching devices shall be located at least 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the inside walls of pools, spas and hot tubs unless separated from the pool, spa or hot tub by a solid fence, wall or other permanent barrier that provides at least a 5-foot (1524 mm) reach distance. Alternatively, a switch that is listed as being acceptable for use within 5 feet (1524 mm) shall be permitted. Switching devices located in a room or area containing a hydromassage bathtub shall be located in accordance with the general requirements for installing equipment in bathrooms. [680.22(C), 680.43(C) and 680.72]

One or more means to simultaneously disconnect all ungrounded conductors for all utilization equipment other than lighting shall be provided. Each of such means shall be readily accessible and within sight from the equipment it serves and shall be located not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the inside walls of a pool, spa, or hot tub unless separated from the open water by a permanently installed barrier that provides a 5-foot (1524 mm) or greater reach path. This horizontal distance shall be measured from the water’s edge along the shortest path required to reach the disconnect. (680.13)

Lighting outlets, luminaires, equipment and ceiling-suspended paddle fans shall be installed and located in accordance with Sections E4203.4.1 through E4203.4.7. [680.22(B)]

Other outlets such as for remote control, signaling, fire alarm and communications shall be not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the inside walls of the pool. Measurements shall be determined in accordance with Section E4203.1. [680.22(D)]

Other equipment with ratings exceeding the low-voltage contact limit shall be located at least 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the inside walls of a pool unless separated from the pool by a solid fence, wall or other permanent barrier. [680.22(E)]

Except where installed with the clearances specified in Table E4203.7, the following parts of pools and outdoor spas and hot tubs shall not be placed under existing service-drop conductors, overhead service conductors or any other open overhead wiring; nor shall such wiring be installed above the following:

1. 1.

   Pools and the areas extending not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally from the inside of the walls of the pool.

2. 2.

   Diving structures and the areas extending not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally from the outer edge of such structures.

3. 3.

   Observation stands, towers, and platforms and the areas extending not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally from the outer edge of such structures.

Overhead conductors of network-powered broadband communications systems shall comply with the provisions in Table E4203.7 for conductors operating at 0 to 750 volts to ground.

Communications, radio conductors, television conductors, coaxial cables and the supporting messengers within the scope of Chapter 8 of NFPA 70 shall be permitted at a height of not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above swimming and wading pools, diving structures, and observation stands, towers, and platforms. [680.9(A), (B) and (C)]

Underground wiring within 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the inside wall of the pool shall be permitted. Underground wiring shall not be installed under the pool except where this wiring is necessary to supply pool equipment permitted by this chapter. Underground wiring shall be installed in rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit, reinforced thermosetting resin conduit, jacketed Type MC cable listed for burial use, liquidtight flexible nonmetallic conduit listed for direct burial use or liquidtight flexible metal conduit listed for direct burial use, suitable for the conditions subject to that location. The underground wiring method shall be installed completely between outlets, junctions or splicing points. The minimum cover depth shall be in accordance with Table E3803.1. [680.11(A) and (B)]

The equipotential bonding required by this section shall be installed to reduce voltage gradients in the prescribed areas of permanently installed swimming pools and spas and hot tubs other than the storable/portable type. The equipotential bonding shall be installed for pools, spas and hot tubs with or without associated electrical equipment related to the pool, spa or hot tub.

The parts of pools, spas and hot tubs specified in Items 1 through 7 shall be bonded together using insulated, covered or bare solid copper conductors not smaller than 8 AWG or using rigid metal conduit of brass or other identified corrosion-resistant metal. Connections to bonded parts shall be made in accordance with Section E3406.14. An 8 AWG or larger solid copper bonding conductor provided to reduce voltage gradients in the pool, spa or hot tub area shall not be required to be extended or attached to remote panelboards, service equipment or electrodes. [680.26(B)]

1. 1.

   Conductive pool shells. Bonding to conductive pool shells shall be provided as specified in Item 1.1 or 1.2. Cast-in-place concrete, pneumatically applied or sprayed concrete and concrete block with painted or plastered coatings shall be considered to be conductive materials because of their water permeability and porosity. Reconstructed pool shells shall also meet the requirements of this section. Vinyl liners and fiberglass composite shells shall be considered to be nonconductive materials and not subject to these requirements.

   1. 1.1.

      Structural reinforcing steel. Unencapsulated structural reinforcing steel shall be bonded together by steel tie wires or the equivalent. Where structural reinforcing steel is encapsulated in a nonconductive compound, a copper conductor grid shall be installed in accordance with Item 1.2.

   2. 1.2.

      Copper conductor grid. A copper conductor grid shall be provided and shall comply with Items 1.2.1 through 1.2.4.

      1. 1.2.1.

         It shall be constructed of minimum 8 AWG bare solid copper conductors bonded to each other at all points of crossing.

      2. 1.2.2.

         It shall conform to the contour of the pool.

      3. 1.2.3.

         It shall be arranged in a 12-inch (305 mm) by 12-inch (305 mm) network of conductors in a uniformly spaced perpendicular grid pattern with a tolerance of 4 inches (102 mm).

      4. 1.2.4.

         It shall be secured within or under the pool not more than 6 inches (152 mm) from the outer contour of the pool shell. [680.26(B)(1)]

2. 2.

   Perimeter surfaces. The perimeter surface to be bonded shall be considered to extend for 3 feet (914 mm) horizontally beyond the inside walls of the pool while also at a height between 3 feet (914 mm) above and 2 feet (610 mm) below the maximum water level. The perimeter surface shall include unpaved surfaces, concrete and other types of paving. Perimeter surfaces that are separated from the pool by a permanent wall or building 5 feet (1524 mm) or more in height shall require equipotential bonding only on the pool side of the permanent wall or building. Bonding to perimeter surfaces shall be provided as specified in Item 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4. For conductive pool shells where bonding to perimeter surfaces is required, it shall be attached to the pool, spa or hot tub reinforcing steel or copper conductor grid at a minimum of four points uniformly spaced around the perimeter of the pool, spa or hot tub, or if the bonded perimeter surface does not surround the entire pool, it shall be attached to the pool, spa or hot tub reinforcing steel or copper grid at a minimum of four uniformly spaced points along the bonded perimeter surface. For nonconductive pool shells where bonding to the perimeter surfaces is required, bonding at four points shall not be required, and the perimeter bonding shall be attached to the 8 AWG copper equipotential bonding conductor and, if present, to any conductive support for the pool, spa or hot tub.

   Exceptions:

   1. 1.

      Equipotential bonding of perimeter surfaces shall not be required for spas and hot tubs if all of the following conditions apply:

      1. 1.1.

         The spa or hot tub is listed as a self-contained spa for above-ground use.

      2. 1.2.

         The spa or hot tub is not identified as suitable only for indoor use.

      3. 1.3.

         The installation is in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and is located on or above grade.

      4. 1.4.

         The top rim of the spa or hot tub is not less than 28 inches (711 mm) above all perimeter surfaces that are within 30 inches (762 mm), measured horizontally from the spa or hot tub. The height of nonconductive external steps for entry to or exit from the self-contained spa is not used to reduce or increase this rim height measurement.

   2. 2.

      The equipotential bonding requirements for perimeter surfaces shall not apply to a listed self-contained spa or hot tub located indoors and installed above a finished floor. [680.26(B)(2), 680.42(B) and 680.43 Exception No.2]

      1. 2.1.

         Conductive paved portions of perimeter surfaces. Conductive paved portions of perimeter surfaces, including masonry pavers, if used, shall be bonded with unencapsulated structural reinforcing steel in accordance with Item 1.1, or with unencapsulated steel structural welded wire reinforcement (welded wire mesh, welded wire fabric), bonded together by steel tie wires or the equivalent. Steel welded wire reinforcement shall be fully embedded within the pavement unless the pavement will not allow for embedding. If the reinforcing steel is absent, or is encapsulated in a nonconductive compound, or embedding is not possible, unencapsulated welded wire steel reinforcement or a copper conductor grid shall be provided and shall be secured directly under the paving and not more than 6 inches (152 mm) below finished grade.

         Unencapsulated steel welded wire reinforcement that is not fully embedded in concrete, and copper grid regardless of location, used for equipotential bonding, shall be listed for corrosion resistance and mechanical performance. This listing requirement shall become effective January 1, 2025. The copper grid or unencapsulated steel welded wire reinforcement shall also meet the following:

         1. 2.1.1.

            Copper grid is constructed of 8 AWG solid bare copper and arranged in accordance with Item 1.2.3.

         2. 2.1.2.

            Steel welded wire reinforcement is minimum ASTM 6x6-W2.0 × W2.0 or minimum No. 3 rebar constructed in a 12-inch (305 mm) grid.

         3. 2.1.3.

            Copper grid and steel welded wire reinforcement follow the contour of the perimeter surface extending not less than 3 feet (914 mm) horizontally beyond the inside walls of the pool.

         4. 2.1.4.

            Only listed splicing devices or exothermic welding are used. [680.26(B)(2)(a)]

      2. 2.2.

         Unpaved portions of perimeter surfaces. Unpaved portions of perimeter surfaces shall be bonded with any of the following methods:

         1. 2.2.1.

            Copper conductor(s) shall be used in accordance with Items 2.2.1.1 through 2.2.1. 6:

            1. 2.2.1.1.

               At least one minimum 8 AWG bare solid copper conductor, including the 8 AWG copper equipotential bonding conductor, if available.

            2. 2.2.1.2.

               The conductors follow the contour of the perimeter surface.

            3. 2.2.1.3.

               Only listed splicing devices or exothermic welding are used.

            4. 2.2.1.4.

               The conductor(s) is 18 to 24 inches (457 to 610 mm) from the inside walls of the pool.

            5. 2.2.1.5.

               The conductor(s) is under the perimeter surface 4 to 6 inches (102 mm to 152 mm) below the finished grade.

            6. 2.2.1.6.

               Be installed only in perimeter surfaces not intended to have direct access to swimmers in the pool.

         2. 2.2.2.

            Copper grid or unencapsulated steel welded wire reinforcement used for equipotential bonding of unpaved portions of perimeter surfaces shall meet the following:

            1. 2.2.2.1.

               Be installed in accordance with 2.1.

            2. 2.2.2.2.

               Be located within unpaved surfaces between 4 to 6 inches (102 to 152 mm) below finished grade. [680.26(B)(2)(b)]

      3. 2.3.

         Nonconductive perimeter surfaces. Equipotential bonding shall not be required for nonconductive portions of perimeter surfaces that are separated from earth or raised on nonconducting supports, and it shall not be required for any perimeter surface that is electrically separated from the pool structure and raised on nonconductive supports above an equipotentially bonded surface. [680.26(B)(2)(c)]

      4. 2.4.

         Interconnection of bonded portions of perimeter surfaces. All surfaces where equipotential bonding is required shall be interconnected using listed splicing devices or exothermic welding. Where copper wire is used for this purpose, it shall be solid copper not smaller than 8 AWG. The conductor shall be permitted to encircle the pool to facilitate bonding connections to portions of the perimeter covered in 2.1 and 2.2 that are not contiguous. [680.26(B)(2)(d)]

3. 3.

   Metallic components. All metallic parts of the pool structure, including reinforcing metal not addressed in Item 1.1, shall be bonded. Where reinforcing steel is encapsulated with a nonconductive compound, the reinforcing steel shall not be required to be bonded. [680.26(B)(3)]

4. 4.

   Underwater lighting. All metal forming shells and mounting brackets of no-niche luminaires shall be bonded. [680.26(B)(4)]

   Exception: Listed low-voltage lighting systems with nonmetallic forming shells shall not require bonding. [680.26(B)(4) Exception]

5. 5.

   Metal fittings. All metal fittings within or attached to the pool structure shall be bonded. [680.26(B)(5)]

   Exceptions:

   1. 1.

      Isolated parts that are not over 4 inches (102 mm) in any dimension and do not penetrate into the pool structure more than 1 inch (25.4 mm) shall not require bonding.

   2. 2.

      Metallic pool cover anchors intended for insertion in a concrete or masonry deck surface, 1 inch (25 mm) or less in any dimension and 2 inches (51 mm) or less in length, shall not require bonding.

   3. 3.

      Metallic pool cover anchors intended for insertion in a wood or composite deck surface, 2 inches (51 mm) or less in any flange dimension and 2 inches (51 mm) or less in length, shall not require bonding. [680.26(B)(5) Exception]

6. 6.

   Electrical equipment. Metal parts of the following electrical equipment shall be bonded: electrically powered pool covers; pool water circulation, treatment, heating, cooling or dehimidification equipment; and equipment not separated from the pool by a permanent barrier that prevents contact by a person, any other electrical equipment within 5 feet (1.5 m) measured horizontally from the inside wall of the pool or 12 feet (3.7 m) measured vertically above the maximum water level of the pool, or as measured vertically above any observation stands, towers, platforms or diving structures.

   Exception: Metal parts of listed equipment incorporating an approved system of double insulation shall not be bonded. [680.26(B)(6) Exception]

   1. 6.1.

      Double-insulated water pump motors. Where a double-insulated water pump motor is installed under the provisions of this item, a solid 8 AWG copper conductor of sufficient length to make a bonding connection to a replacement motor shall be extended from the swimming pool equipotential bonding means to an accessible point in the vicinity of the pool pump motor. Where there is no connection between the swimming pool equipotential bonding means and the equipment grounding system for the premises, this bonding conductor shall be connected to the equipment grounding conductor of the motor circuit. [680.26(B)(6)(a)]

   2. 6.2.

      Pool water heaters. For pool water heaters rated at more than 50 amperes and having specific instructions regarding bonding and grounding, only those parts designated to be bonded shall be bonded and only those parts designated to be grounded shall be grounded. [680.26(B)(6)(b)]

7. 7.

   All fixed metal parts including, but not limited to, metal-sheathed cables and raceways, metal piping, metal awnings, metal fences and metal door and window frames, shall be bonded where located no greater than either of the following:

   Exceptions:

   1. 1.

      Five feet (1.5 m) horizontally from the inside walls of the pool. Those separated from the pool by a permanent barrier that prevents contact by a person shall not be required to be bonded. [680.26(B)(7) Exception No. 1]

   2. 2.

      Twelve feet (3.7 m) vertically above the maximum water level of the pool, observation stands, towers, or platforms or any diving structures. [680.26(B)(7)]

Where none of the bonded parts in Section E4204.2 are in direct connection with the pool water, the pool water shall be in direct contact with an approved corrosion-resistant conductive surface that exposes not less than 9 square inches (5800 mm²) of surface area to the pool water at all times. The conductive surface shall be located where it is not exposed to physical damage or dislodgement during usual pool activities, and it shall be bonded in accordance with Section E4204.2. [680.26(C)]

Outdoor hot tubs and spas shall comply with the bonding requirements of Sections E4204.1 through E4204.3. Bonding by metal-to-metal mounting on a common frame or base shall be permitted. The metal bands or hoops used to secure wooden staves shall not be required to be bonded as required in Section E4204.2. [680.42 and 680.42(B)]

The following parts of indoor hot tubs and spas shall be bonded together:

1. 1.

   All metal fittings within or attached to the hot tub or spa structure. [680.43(D)(1)]

2. 2.

   Metal parts of electrical equipment associated with the hot tub or spa water circulating system, including pump motors unless part of a listed self-contained spa or hot tub. [680.43(D)(2)]

3. 3.

   Metal raceway and metal piping that are within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the inside walls of the hot tub or spa and that are not separated from the spa or hot tub by a permanent barrier. [680.43(D)(3)]

4. 4.

   All metal surfaces that are within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the inside walls of the hot tub or spa and that are not separated from the hot tub or spa area by a permanent barrier. [680.43(D)(4)]

   Exception: Small conductive surfaces not likely to become energized, such as air and water jets and drain fittings, where not connected to metallic piping, towel bars, mirror frames, and similar nonelectrical equipment, shall not be required to be bonded. [680.43(D)(4) Exception]

5. 5.

   Noncurrent-carrying metal parts of electrical devices and controls that are not associated with the hot tubs or spas and that are located less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from such units. [680.43(D)(5)]

Feeders and branch circuits installed in a corrosive environment or wet location shall contain an equipment grounding conductor (EGC) that is an insulated copper conductor sized in accordance with Table E3908.13 (Table 250.122), but not smaller than 12 AWG. [680.7(A), (Table250.110)]

The flexible cord shall contain an EGC that is an insulated copper conductor sized in accordance with Table E3908.13 (Table 250.122), but not smaller than 12 AWG. The flexible cord shall terminate in a grounding-type attachment plug having a fixed grounding contact member. [680.7(B), (Table 250.110)]

Terminals used for bonding and equipment grounding shall be identified for use in wet locations. Field-installed terminals in damp or wet locations or corrosive environments shall be composed of copper, copper alloy or stainless steel and shall be listed for direct burial use. [680.7(C)]

Where branch-circuit wiring on the supply side of enclosures and junction boxes connected to conduits run to underwater luminaires are installed in corrosive environments as described in Section E4202.2, the wiring method of that portion of the branch circuit shall be as required in Section E4202.2. Where not installed in corrosive environments, branch circuits shall comply with Chapter 38. Wiring methods shall contain an insulated copper equipment grounding conductor sized in accordance with Table E3809.13 but not smaller than 12 AWG. The equipment grounding conductor between the wiring chamber of the secondary winding of a transformer and a junction box shall be sized in accordance with the transformer secondary overcurrent protection provided.

The insulated copper equipment grounding conductor shall be connected to all through-wall lighting assemblies, wet-niche, dry-niche or no-niche luminaires other than listed low-voltage luminaires not requiring grounding. The junction box, transformer enclosure or other enclosure in the supply circuit to a wet-niche or no-niche luminaire and the field-wiring chamber of a dry-niche luminaire shall be grounded to the equipment grounding terminal of the panelboard. The equipment grounding terminal shall be directly connected to the panelboard enclosure. The equipment grounding conductor shall be installed without joint or splice. [680.23(F)(1) and (F)(2), 680.23(F)(2) Exception and 680.24(F)]

Where a nonmetallic conduit is installed between a forming shell and a junction box, transformer enclosure or other enclosure, an 8 AWG insulated copper bonding jumper shall be installed in this conduit except where a listed low-voltage lighting system not requiring grounding is used. The bonding jumper shall be terminated in the forming shell, junction box or transformer enclosure, or ground-fault circuit-interrupter enclosure. The termination of the 8 AWG bonding jumper in the forming shell shall be covered with, or encapsulated in, a listed potting compound to protect such connection from the possible deteriorating effect of pool water. [680.23(B)(2)(b)]

Other than listed low-voltage lighting systems not requiring grounding, wet-niche luminaires that are supplied by a flexible cord or cable shall have all exposed noncurrent-carrying metal parts connected to an insulated copper equipment grounding conductor that is an integral part of the cord or cable. This equipment grounding conductor shall be connected to a grounding terminal in the supply junction box, transformer enclosure or other enclosure. The equipment grounding conductor shall not be smaller than the supply conductors and not smaller than 16 AWG. [680.23(B)(3)]

Where fixed or stationary equipment is connected with a flexible cord to facilitate removal or disconnection for maintenance, repair or storage, as provided in Section E4202.3, the equipment grounding conductors shall be connected to a fixed metal part of the assembly. The removable part shall be mounted on or bonded to the fixed metal part. [680.8(C)]

Transformers and power supplies used for the supply of underwater luminaires, together with the transformer or power supply enclosure, shall be listed, labeled and identified for swimming pool and spa use. The transformer or power supply shall incorporate either a transformer of the isolated-winding type with an ungrounded secondary that has a grounded metal barrier between the primary and secondary windings, or a transformer that incorporates an approved system of double insulation between the primary and secondary windings. [680.23(A)(2)]

Where required in this chapter, ground-fault protection of receptacles and outlets on branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to ground and 60 amperes or less, single- or three-phase, shall be provided with a listed Class A GFCI. The GFCI requirements in this chapter, unless otherwise noted, are in addition to the requirements in Section E3902. [680.5(A) and (B)]

For other than grounding conductors, conductors installed on the load side of a ground-fault circuit interrupter or transformer used to comply with the provisions of Section E4206.4, shall not occupy raceways, boxes or enclosures containing other conductors except where the other conductors are protected by ground-fault circuit-interrupters or are grounding conductors. Supply conductors to a feed-through type ground-fault circuit interrupter shall be permitted in the same enclosure. Ground-fault circuit interrupters shall be permitted in a panelboard that contains circuits protected by other than ground-fault circuit interrupters. [680.23(F)(3)]

The design of an underwater luminaire supplied from a branch circuit, either directly or by way of a transformer or power supply meeting the requirements of Section E4206.1, shall be such that, where the fixture is properly installed without a ground-fault circuit interrupter, there is no shock hazard with any likely combination of fault conditions during normal use (not relamping). In addition, ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel shall be installed in the branch circuit supplying luminaires operating at voltages greater than the low-voltage contact limit to protect personnel performing lamping, relamping or servicing. Compliance with this requirement shall be obtained by the use of a listed underwater luminaire and by installation of a listed ground-fault circuit-interrupter in the branch circuit or a listed transformer or power supply for luminaires operating at more than the low-voltage contact limit. Luminaires that depend on submersion for safe operation shall be inherently protected against the hazards of overheating when not submerged. [680.23(A)(1), (A)(3), (A)(7) and (A)(8)]

Forming shells shall be installed for the mounting of all wet-niche underwater luminaires and shall be equipped with provisions for conduit entries. Conduit shall extend from the forming shell to a suitable junction box or other enclosure located as provided in Section E4206.9. Metal parts of the luminaire and forming shell in contact with the pool water shall be of brass or other approved corrosion-resistant metal. [680.23(B)(1) and (B)(2)]

The end of flexible-cord jackets and flexible-cord conductor terminations within a luminaire shall be covered with, or encapsulated in, a suitable potting compound to prevent the entry of water into the luminaire through the cord or its conductors. If present, the connection of the equipment grounding conductor within a luminaire shall be similarly treated to protect such connection from the deteriorating effect of pool water in the event of water entry into the luminaire. [680.23(B)(4)]

Luminaires shall be bonded to and secured to the forming shell by a positive locking device that ensures a low-resistance contact and requires a tool to remove the luminaire from the forming shell. [680.23(B)(5)]

Dry-niche luminaires shall have provisions for drainage of water. Other than listed low-voltage luminaires not requiring grounding, a dry-niche luminaire shall have means for accommodating one equipment grounding conductor for each conduit entry. Junction boxes shall not be required but, if used, shall not be required to be elevated or located as specified in Section E4206.9 if the luminaire is specifically identified for the purpose. [680.23(C)(1) and (C)(2)]

No-niche luminaires shall be listed for the purpose and shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of Section E4206.5. Where connection to a forming shell is specified, the connection shall be to the mounting bracket. [680.23(D)]

A through-wall lighting assembly shall be equipped with a threaded entry or hub, or a nonmetallic hub, for the purpose of accommodating the termination of the supply conduit. A through-wall lighting assembly shall meet the construction requirements of Section E4205.6 and be installed in accordance with the requirements of Section E4206.5 Where connection to a forming shell is specified, the connection shall be to the conduit termination point. [680.23(E)]

Junction boxes for underwater luminaires and enclosures for transformers and ground-fault circuit interrupters that supply underwater luminaires shall comply with Sections E4206.9.1 through E4206.9.5. [680.24(A)]

Underwater audio equipment shall be identified as underwater audio equipment. [680.27(A)]

The electric motors, controllers and wiring for pool covers shall be located not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the inside wall of the pool except where separated from the pool by a wall, cover or other permanent barrier. Electric motors installed below grade level shall be of the totally enclosed type. The electric motor and controller shall be connected to a branch circuit protected by a ground-fault circuit interrupter. The device that controls the operation of the motor for an electrically operated pool cover shall be located so that the device operator has full view of the pool. [680.27(B)(1) and (B)(2)]

Electric pool water heaters shall have the heating elements subdivided into loads not exceeding 48 amperes and protected at not more than 60 amperes. The ampacity of the branch-circuit conductors and the rating or setting of overcurrent protective devices shall be not less than 125 percent of the total nameplate load rating. (680.10)

Electrically powered swimming pool heat pumps and chillers using the circulating water system and providing heating, cooling, or both, shall be listed and rated for their intended use. The ampacity of the branch-circuit conductors and the rating or setting of overcurrent protective devices shall be sized to comply with the nameplate. [680.10(B)]

The provisions of Sections E4206.14.1 through E4206.14.3 shall apply to all pool deck areas, including a covered pool, where electrically operated comfort heating units are installed within 20 feet (6096 mm) of the inside wall of the pool. [680.27(C)]

Circuits serving gas-fired swimming pool and spa water heaters operating at voltages above the low-voltage contact limit shall be provided with ground-fault circuit-interruper protection.

A cord-and-plug-connected pool filter pump for use with storable pools shall incorporate an approved system of double insulation or its equivalent and shall be provided with means for the termination of an equipment grounding conductor for the connection to the internal and nonaccessible noncurrent-carrying metal parts of the pump.

The means for grounding shall be an equipment grounding conductor run with the power-supply conductors in a flexible cord that is properly terminated in a grounding-type attachment plug having a fixed grounding contact. Cord-and-plug-connected pool filter pumps shall be provided with a ground-fault circuit-interrupter that is an integral part of the attachment plug or located in the power supply cord within 12 inches (305 mm) of the attachment plug. (680.31)

Electrical equipment, including power-supply cords, used with storable pools shall be protected by ground-fault circuit interrupters. All receptacles rated 125-volts through 250 volts, 60 amperes or less, located within 20 feet (6096 mm) of the inside walls of a storable pool, storable spa or storable hot tub shall be protected by a Class A ground-fault circuit interrupter. In determining these dimensions, the distance to be measured shall be the shortest path that the supply cord of an appliance connected to the receptacle would follow without passing through a floor, wall, ceiling, doorway with hinged or sliding door, window opening or other effective permanent barrier. (680.32)

Luminaires for storable pools, storable spas and storable hot tubs shall not have exposed metal parts and shall be listed for the purpose as an assembly. In addition, luminaires for storable pools shall comply with the requirements of Section E4207.3.1 or E4207.3.2. (680.33)

Receptacles shall be located not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) from the inside walls of a storable pool, storable spa or storable hot tub. In determining these dimensions, the distance to be measured shall be the shortest path that the supply cord of an appliance connected to the receptacle would follow without passing through a floor, wall, ceiling, doorway with hinged or sliding door, window opening or other effective permanent barrier. (680.34)

Overhead conductor installations shall comply with Section E4203.7, and underground conductor installations shall comply with Section E4203.8. [680.30]

Disconnecting means for storable pools and storable/portable spas and hot tubs shall comply with Section E4203.3. [680.30]

Ground-fault circuit interrupters shall comply with Section E4206.2. [680.30]

Electric pool water heaters shall comply with Section E4206.12.

The outlet(s) that supplies a self-contained spa or hot tub, or a packaged spa or hot tub equipment assembly, or a field-assembled spa or hot tub shall be protected by a ground-fault circuit interrupter. (680.44)

A listed self-contained unit or listed packaged equipment assembly marked to indicate that integral ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection is provided for all electrical parts within the unit or assembly, including pumps, air blowers, heaters, lights, controls, sanitizer generators and wiring, shall not require additional ground-fault protection. [680.44(A)]

Electric spa and hot tub water heaters shall be listed and shall have the heating elements subdivided into loads not exceeding 48 amperes and protected at not more than 60 amperes. The ampacity of the branch-circuit conductors, and the rating or setting of overcurrent protective devices, shall be not less than 125 percent of the total nameplate load rating. (680.10)

Underwater audio equipment used with spas and hot tubs shall comply with the provisions of Section E4206.10. [680.43(G)]

A clearly labeled emergency shutoff or control switch for the purpose of stopping the motor(s) that provides power to the recirculation system and jet system shall be installed at a point that is readily accessible to the users, adjacent to and within sight of the spa or hot tub and not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) away from the spa or hot tub. This requirement shall not apply to one-family dwellings. [680.41(A)]

Except for self-contained spas and hot tubs, equipment with ratings exceeding the low-voltage contact limit shall be located at least 5 feet (1.5 meters) horizontally from the inside walls of a spa or hot tub, unless separated from the spa or hot tub by a solid fence, wall, or other permanent barrier. [680.41(B)]

Receptacles that provide power for a spa or hot tub shall not exceed 150 volts to ground and shall be GFCI protected. [680.43(A)(3)]

Installations of hydromassage bathtubs, as defined in Chapter 35, shall be required to comply only with Section E4209. The branch circuit wiring method(s) supplying a hydromassage bathtub shall comply with Chapter 38. (680.70)

Hydromassage bathtubs and their associated electrical components shall be supplied by an individual branch circuit(s) and protected by a readily accessible ground-fault circuit interrupter. All 125-volt, single-phase receptacles not exceeding 30 amperes and located within 6 feet (1829 mm) measured horizontally of the inside walls of a hydromassage tub shall be protected by a ground-fault circuit interrupter(s). (680.71)

Luminaires, switches, receptacles and other electrical equipment located in the same room, and not directly associated with a hydromassage bathtub, shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of this code relative to the installation of electrical equipment in bathrooms. (680.72)

Hydromassage bathtub electrical equipment shall be accessible without damaging the building structure or building finish.

Where the hydromassage bathtub is cord- and plug-connected with the supply receptacle accessible only through a service access opening, the receptacle shall be installed so that its face is within direct view and not more than 12 inches (305 mm) from the plane of the opening. (680.73)

The following parts shall be bonded together:

1. 1.

   Metal fittings within or attached to the tub structure that are in contact with the circulating water.

2. 2.

   Metal parts of electrical equipment associated with the tub water circulating system, including the pump and blower motors.

3. 3.

   Metal-sheathed cables, metal raceways and metal piping that are within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the inside walls of the tub and that are not separated from the tub area by a permanent barrier.

4. 4.

   Exposed metal surfaces that are within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the inside walls of the tub and not separated from the tub area by a permanent barrier.

5. 5.

   Noncurrent-carrying metal parts of electrical devices and controls that are not associated with the hydromassage tubs and that are located within 5 feet (1524 mm) from such units. [680.74(A)]

Metal parts required to be bonded by this section shall be bonded together using a solid copper bonding jumper, insulated, covered or bare, not smaller than 8 AWG. The bonding jumper(s) shall be required for equipotential bonding in the area of the hydromassage bathtub and shall not be required to be extended or attached to any remote panelboard, service equipment or electrode. In all installations, a bonding jumper long enough to terminate on a replacement nondouble-insulated pump or blower motor shall be provided and shall be terminated to the equipment grounding conductor of the branch circuit of the motor where a double-insulated circulating pump or blower motor is used. [680.74(B)]