P on February 9, 2005]









AFCI Guidelines.doc/KThurman


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The purpose of the Tri-Chapter Uniform Codes Adoption and Interpretation Program (TCUCAIP) is to recommend code
amendments and to develop policies/guidelines that promote uniform enforcement of building codes within the San Francisco Bay
Area region. TCUCAIP policies and guidelines are advisory and implementation/enforcement of them is determined by each
jurisdiction.


Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI)



Section 210-12 of the National Electrical Code requires AFCI protection for all dwelling
unit bedroom branch circuits that supply 120 volt, single-phase, 15 and 20-ampere
receptacle outlets. This section is applicable to the following conditions:

1. The addition of new bedroom(s)*.
2. The extension of existing circuits to new bedroom(s)*.
3. Change of use/occupancy*

*AFCI breakers are readily available and are easily installed in existing electrical panels. If AFCI
breakers cannot be installed in an existing panel, a load center or approved enclosure may be
installed to accommodate the AFCI. For any other deviations from this policy, please contact the
authority having jurisdiction, for instance many jurisdictions require AFCI protection for the
installation of new receptacles in existing bedrooms.

This section is not applicable to an electrical service change or upgrade that does not
include the above referenced conditions.

This device is required at the source of the branch circuit to provide protection for the
branch circuit conductors as well as flexible cords and equipment connected to the
branch circuit. This device is in addition to the ground-fault circuit interrupter
required for personal protection.


1999 NEC requires receptacles only.
2002 NEC requires all circuits serving the bedroom(s).