Common heights by room
These are the heights the editor starts with, to the center of the box above the finished floor. You change each one per symbol.
Usual height in the editor
Squaremetry starting values, not a code requirement
| What | Height | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Outlet (receptacle) | 16″ | living room, bedroom, hall |
| Duplex outlet | 16″ | next to the sofa or bed |
| Data outlet | 16″ | TV wall, desk |
| Light switch and dimmer | 48″ | next to the door, on the latch side |
| Thermostat | 60″ | living room, out of the sun |
| Wall light | 66″ | hall, bedroom |
Countertop outlets
Here the code is specific. In the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70, 210.52), countertop receptacles sit above the counter and no more than 20″ above it, and no point along the counter wall may be more than 24″ from an outlet. Your town adopts its own edition: ask your electrician which one applies.
In the drawing at the top (wall A of a 12 × 9 ft kitchen) the counter is at 36″ and the wall cabinets start at 57″. The countertop outlets sit at 44″ (3′ 8″), inside the backsplash and within the 20″; the outlet by the door is at 16″ (1′ 4″) and the switch at 48″ (4′).
Is there a code height for switches?
We found no code that sets one height for a light switch or a wall outlet in a house. The 48″ for a switch and 16″ for an outlet are habits that many builders follow.
For public buildings, the ADA sets a reach range: a control you reach forward to sits between 15″ and 48″ above the floor (308.2.1). It does not apply to a private house, but it is a good guide if someone in the home uses a wheelchair.
Drawing aid
How it works in the editor
- Open the editor with a 12 × 9 ft kitchen ready, or draw your own room.
- Turn on Systems and pick a Socket (outlet) or a Switch under Symbols. Click near a wall: the symbol lands against the wall at the usual height.
- Click the symbol and type your own Mounting height, like 44 in or 3′ 8″. Use the usual height puts it back.
- In the room card, open More and Wall elevations: every wall to scale, with the height next to each outlet and switch. Export a PDF, SVG or DXF.
Sources
- Single Family Dwelling Kitchen Requirements (NFPA 70, 2014 edition, 210.52), Hopewell Township, New Jersey. Last checked on October 2, 2026.
- 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, 308.2.1: unobstructed forward reach, U.S. Access Board. Last checked on October 2, 2026.