Electric code question: outlet location in commercial space

[KokoTele]

Do any of you (maybe some electricians) know what code applies for spacing/locations in commercial spaces? My googling is only finding definitive info about residential spaces (every 12 linear feet along walls, and within 6 feet of doors and windows). I found a single comment in a forum that there isn't any specific requirement for outlet location and spacing in commercial spaces.

 

[imwjl]

It seems to me most local ordinances come from state statutes that are following UBC (uniform building code). Try your local building inspector's office if you don't have a relationship with an electrician to know for sure.

 

[guitar_paul1]

I think in commercial spaces it is as designed and to be approved at the time of plan review. I agree, call local inspector or trusted electrician for advice. NY is very different from Seattle, where I learned.

 

[String Tree]

One Outlet every 6' of Wall space. The Interpretation of that Sentence isn't as clear as it sounds.
"Commercial" is a Can of Worms in the National Electrical Code Book.
Are you really Commercial or, are you merely trying to upgrade what you have at Home?

There are some Safe, Legal and, Effective ways to do that.

 

[String Tree]

I think in commercial spaces it is as designed and to be approved at the time of plan review. I agree, call local inspector or trusted electrician for advice. NY is very different from Seattle, where I learned.

There are SO many different Designations in Commercial.
Banks, Theaters, Stores, Offices, Repair Shops.... All with different requirements.
Lumens per sq ft for Lighting, Wattage per sq ft for Outlets, HVAC, ... It goes on and on.

Plus, Local Authorities are allowed (By the NEC) to modify a design as they see fit!

 

[String Tree]

Do any of you (maybe some electricians) know what code applies for spacing/locations in commercial spaces? My googling is only finding definitive info about residential spaces (every 12 linear feet along walls, and within 6 feet of doors and windows). I found a single comment in a forum that there isn't any specific requirement for outlet location and spacing in commercial spaces.

You can only put so many Watts (VA) on a Given Breaker.
What are you trying to do?

 

[howardlo]

Don’t do anything without an approved building permit. Not to do so would void your insurance in case of future problems and could leave you open for lawsuits in the event of injuries or deaths.

 

[PhoenixBill]

Yes! In places like New York State, all electrical work in commercial buildings must be performed by a licensed electrician, and appropriate building permits on-site before work commences. Even residential electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician in some extremely strict jurisdictions; the homeowner cannot even change out a receptacle or light switch. Too many fires and lost lives from shoddy, improper work.

 

[RodeoTex]

What type of commercial is it?
I've got the NEC right here on the seat next to me.

 

[KokoTele]

Thanks for the replies, everyone. Please don't read too much into my question. I'm not trying to do anything besides determine if a commercial space I'm looking to rent meets code or can be made to meet code, and what specific code applies. Right now there are few outlets. I'm trying to determine how many more the code says there need to be as the landlord and I are in disagreement about this.

The building itself is a large warehouse that will be used for retail sale of antiques/salvage collectibles. Think of it like a big thrift store with higher prices where you can find funky furniture, fixtures, and knick knacks to decorate your home or coffee shop. The space I'm looking at is 500 sqft within that big warehouse, framed off as separate space with a lockable entrance from the warehouse. It will be used as mixed retail/workshop space.

 

[guitar_paul1]

Just make sure you have access to the "means of disconnection" at all times. If it were I would prefer a sub panel in the rental area. Then you're in control.

 

[Peegoo]

I'm not trying to do anything besides determine if a commercial space I'm looking to rent meets code or can be made to meet code, and what specific code applies.

Hire a state-licensed building inspector to do a survey of the location. It's not prohibitively expensive and will give you peace of mind--as well as cover your legal butt if something needs attention by the landlord before you sign a lease.

 

[Boreas]

Thanks for the replies, everyone. Please don't read too much into my question. I'm not trying to do anything besides determine if a commercial space I'm looking to rent meets code or can be made to meet code, and what specific code applies. Right now there are few outlets. I'm trying to determine how many more the code says there need to be as the landlord and I are in disagreement about this.

The building itself is a large warehouse that will be used for retail sale of antiques/salvage collectibles. Think of it like a big thrift store with higher prices where you can find funky furniture, fixtures, and knick knacks to decorate your home or coffee shop. The space I'm looking at is 500 sqft within that big warehouse, framed off as separate space with a lockable entrance from the warehouse. It will be used as mixed retail/workshop space.

I suspect you will need to address this at the local level. A commercial warehouse will have different lighting and outlet codes than a doctor's office or hospital or restaurant. The existing infrastructure may be fine for the original APPROVED/ZONED use, but may be entirely improper for your approved use. If the use is going to change, it will likely require a different code. You may be able to negotiate this into the rent. But I believe the landlord holds the responsibility for only allowing certain types of uses for the existing infrastructure. If you start crypto-mining in an old warehouse, it could be an issue.

 

[KokoTele]

Hmmm, this seemed like it would be so straightforward. 500 sqft of commercial space within a larger commercial building, and I'm only interested in what the code says is required in my 500 sqft. box. FWIW, we already have a plan to install lighting that I'm confident will meet both code and my needs.