A chandelier over a bathtub may look romantic, but read this.

I spied this little thumbnail of a chandelier over a bathtub on Houzz, and while it’s inviting and stylish, I had to take a closer look to see if it’s actually code.

White bathrooms are still enormously popular, and always look so fresh and clean for a perfect ‘after’ photo. While the image is aspirational, and the oversized plant and armchair seem out-of-place to me (a matter of taste), there is one detail could violate your local codes.

It’s the chandelier. You shouldn’t be able to stand in your bathtub and change the lightbulb.

What’s the lighting code?

According to the National Electric Code (NEC) from 2020, there is a restriction for the placement of lighting around the wet area of a bathtub. The code is 406.9(C).

The reason for the restriction is that you shouldn’t be able to change a lightbulb or grab the light fixture while inside the bathtub: standing, sitting, or otherwise.

So they require that any part of a light fixture, even the non-lightbulb embellishments, must be at least 8 feet above the highest portion of the bathtub’s walls.

This no-light-zone also extends horizontally 3 feet around the tub rim.

How can I safely put a light above a bathtub?

If you want to hang a chandelier above a bathtub, you’ll need a taller than average ceiling. You’ll also need a light fixture that is rated for wet or damp locations.

And yes, local codes can be different. Always check with the local code office to find out which restrictions for a chandelier over a bathtub have been adopted in your town. They could be more stringent or less so.

So where are these images popping up?

And it’s not just that I spied four more images of lighting inside the ‘no-light-zone’ when I clicked on that Houzz article.

Many other favorite design inspiration and home how-to sources share images that feature the problematic, yet romantic, chandelier-over-the-tub look.

How can I install a chandelier safely over a tub?

Yes, I love the look of chandelier over a bathtub, too. It could be achieved, too.

You’ll need a non-electrical crystal chime or something that sparkles, shines, and bounces the romantic light above that soaking tub.

If you want to check out the details on the NEC restrictions on placing a chandelier over a bathtub, click here.

If you have other questions about your DIY projects, send us a note or write a comment below.

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