- According to Title 24 of the California building code, an electrical outlet must be between 15 inches and 48 inches from the ground. It can not go above 48 inches or below 15 inches. This is measured from the top of the receptacle housing to the flat level part of the floor.
- While California and its cities have very specific rules as to the height of the electrical outlet, note that most of these rules are for commercial buildings. California and other jurisdictions have much less strict rules when it comes to outlet heights in private homes.
- This does not mean that outlet laws in general are lax, there are strict rules about almost everything to do with them from proper grounding to how many need to be installed in a home. (see reference 4) They also can rarely be flush with the ground. The 15 inches to 48 inches rule should serve you well in most situations, but always double check with a licensed electrician.
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