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GFCI requirements

The rules come from section 210.8 of the National Electrical Code as states and cities adopt it. Below is the wording in published government copies, with the edition each copy states.

Last checked

On this page
  1. Georgia (statewide)
  2. Saint Paul, MN
  3. Sources

A ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) cuts power in a fraction of a second when current leaks to ground, which protects people from shock where water and electricity meet. The National Electrical Code lists the dwelling locations where receptacles need GFCI protection, and each edition has added locations.

Which list applies depends on the NEC edition your state or city has adopted (see the code pages), and some places delay or amend new requirements. Replacing a receptacle in a covered location usually means installing GFCI protection.

The National Electrical Code (NEC) is a model code. It is law only where a state or city adopts it, usually with changes, so the wording below shows how the model reads in published government copies, not the rule where you live.

Georgia (statewide)

NEC 2023 with Georgia amendments, revised January 1, 2026

  • 210.8(A) Dwelling Units. All 125-volt through 250-volt receptacles installed in the locations and supplied by single-phase branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to ground shall have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.1
  • Kitchens — where the receptacles are installed to serve the countertop surfaces…1
  • 6 feet. Sinks — where receptacles are installed within 1.8 m (6 ft) from the top inside edge of the bowl of the sink…1

Saint Paul, MN

2023 NEC checklist, revised July 2023

  • GFCI protection shall be provided for all 125-volt through 250-volt receptacle outlets installed or replaced in bathrooms, garages/accessory buildings, outdoors, basements, crawl spaces, kitchens, laundry areas, indoor damp and wet locations, and within 6 ft. of the outer edge of a sink, bathtub, or shower stall.2
  • NEC 210.8(D) – Branch circuits or receptacle outlets rated 150V or less to ground and 60 amps or less, that supply dishwashers, sump pumps, electric ranges, wall-mounted ovens, counter-mounted cooking units, clothes dryers, and microwave ovens shall be GFCI protected.2

Sources

  1. Georgia State Amendments to the National Electrical Code (2023 Edition)Georgia Department of Community AffairsRevised January 1, 2026Checked November 7, 2026
  2. Electrical Checklist: Dwelling Unit FinalCity of Saint Paul, MN, Department of Safety and InspectionsRevised July 2023Checked November 7, 2026