Who has the authority to enforce the National Electrical Code (NEC)?

The National Electrical Code (NEC) is enforced primarily by the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) in a given area. This enforcement power allows the AHJ to interpret the NEC and ensure that electrical installations comply with safety standards and local amendments. The AHJ can be a city or county building department, and it plays a vital role in maintaining safety in electrical systems by conducting inspections and approving permits.

This structure is important because the NEC is not a federal mandate but rather a standard that states adopt and modify to fit their specific needs. Each locality can enforce its own adaptations of the NEC, which highlights the AHJ's crucial role in interpreting and applying the code based on regional safety requirements and practices. Therefore, local entities are empowered to oversee adherence to the NEC, making them the primary enforcers of electrical safety standards.