Code guides · NEC 210.12
AFCI requirements
AFCI started as a kitchen + bedroom requirement in 1999 and expanded to cover most habitable rooms. The 2020 edition introduced AFCI/GFCI dual-function devices for kitchen receptacles.
Where required (residential)
- Bedrooms (since 1999, expanded 2002+)
- Living rooms, family rooms, dining rooms, libraries (since 2014)
- Kitchens (since 2014; AFCI/GFCI dual-function since 2020)
- Hallways, closets, laundry rooms (since 2014)
- Sunrooms, recreation rooms (since 2017)
Combination vs branch/feeder
Combination-type AFCIs (CAFCIs) detect series and parallel arcs across the entire branch circuit. Branch/feeder AFCIs only detect parallel arcs at the panel — used historically but not allowed for new residential since 2014. Always spec combination-type unless the AHJ explicitly allows otherwise.
Disclosure
This is a plain-English summary for estimating purposes. It is not a substitute for the actual code documents — review for AHJ-specific amendments. Adopted editions vary by jurisdiction; OmniTakeoff applies the edition declared on the project, not a hard-coded default.
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