Massachusetts Electrical Code

Here you'll find information relating to the Massachusetts Electrical Code.

The Board of Fire Prevention Regulations voted to approve the Amendments to 527 CMR 12.00 Massachusetts Electrical Code based on the 2023 edition of NFPA 70 National Electrical Code.  The Electrical Code is effective as of February 17, 2023.  A link to unofficial 2023 Massachusetts Electrical Code is available here:

527 CMR 12.00 Massachusetts Electrical Code (Effective 2/17/23)

For an official version please visit the Secretary of State's website.

Massachusetts Electrical Code

The current State Electrical Code currently in effect is based upon NFPA 70, 2020 edition. To view this code free of charge, go to www.nfpa.org, click on "Codes and Standards", select NFPA 70, Free Access, select the 2023 edition, click on "view". The Board of Fire Prevention Regulations also adopted Massachusetts amendments to the code to address situations unique to our Commonwealth.

A proposed emergency amendment was approved by the Board of Fire Prevention Regulations on January 19, 2023.  This emergency amendment took effect on January 26, 2023, the language is available at the link below.  It relates to Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters. 

Advisory - Electrical Code (527 CMR 12) 

Massachusetts Electrical Code Update News

The review of the next version of 527 CMR 12.00, NFPA 70 National Electrical Code 2023 edition with unique Massachusetts amendments is complete. To recommend proposals for amendments to the code, please fill out the form below. Instructions for submission are contained on the form.

Proposal Form

GFCI Unwanted Tripping

The GFCI Unwanted Tripping Form is for the documentation of equipment in normal operating conditions that are incompatible with GFCI protective devices.  

All forms must be submitted electronically.  GFCI Unwanted Tripping Forms have a ‘submit’ button at the bottom of the form.  Please scroll all the way down.  Paper forms will not be accepted.

GFCI Unwanted Tripping Form

To view all GFCI Unwanted Tripping form submissions, please select the link below.

GFCI Unwanted Tripping Report Submissions

Past Editions of the State Electrical Code

Code enforcement officials, architects, and engineers often to need to refer to previous editions of the State Electrical Code that were in effect when a building was built or occupied. NFPA

National Electrical Code:
To view the Base Code - NFPA -70, go to the NFPA 70 Standard and Development page. Scroll down and select "View Free Access." You will need an account, which is free to create.

Below are the previous Massachusetts Amendments to NPFA 70.  Each document will tell you which edition of NFPA 70 was in effect at the time.