I was looking to have a power outlet installed in a closet but was informed by the building's managing agent that it's against code. I was wondering if this is true or not and if there's any workaround.

Thanks.

I have an outlet in my hall closet. Comes in handy for powering the laser printer, fax, and a night light for the kitty.

Apparently true, but I can't find the reference to it. The code does permit light switches in walk-in closets, so you could have the electrician install that and then convert it to an outlet yourself.

The 2008 National Electric Code forbids open or partially enclosed lamps and pendant lights in closets, per section 410.16(B). It doesn't have any restriction on outlets in closets.

Moreover, closets are specifically mentioned in section 210.12(B):

Dwelling Units. All 120-volt, single phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets installed in dwelling unit family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas shall be protected by a listed arc-fault circuit interrupter, combination-type, installed to provide protection of the branch circuit.

But I'm neither an electrician nor an inspector, so take it with a grain of salt.

I can tell you that we installed a regular outlet + a 240 V outlet for a washer and dryer in the closet, and the DOB permitted it.... Also an a/v closet with a regular outlet and that was apparently ok, too.

Also, we also have two outlets inside kitchen cabinets - one for the dishwasher, and the other for a wine fridge (that we got rid of). There's an outlet behind our built-in refrigerator, too.

My new condo came with an outlet in one closest (that I use for my wine fridge) and one in another closest for the washer/dryer. I doubt developer could have or would have put outlet there if it was against code.

I was going to ask how do you explain all the closets with electric outlets and/or gas lines AND plumbing/drains and sometimes even vents in newer buildings throughout the city. Technorat, do you suppose these washer/dryer hookups are all against code?

You may be confusing an outlet in the closet with an electrical panel in the closet. Electrical panels cannot be installed in clothes closets (but walk in storage closets are ok)

What flarf said.

The National Electrical Code (NEC) does not have any restrictions against installation of receptacle outlets inside a closet.