Bathroom lighting zones — what can go where?

Bathroom lighting in New Brunswick follows strict TSANB safety zones to prevent electrocution in wet areas. The Canadian Electrical Code divides bathrooms into specific zones with different requirements for each area.

Zone 0 is the most dangerous - this is inside the bathtub or shower enclosure itself. No electrical equipment is allowed here except for specialized shower lighting rated IPX7 (completely waterproof). Most homeowners should avoid installing anything in Zone 0.

Zone 1 extends from the floor to 2.25 meters high and within 0.6 meters horizontally from the bathtub or shower. Only IPX4-rated fixtures (splash-proof) are permitted here, and they must be GFCI protected. This includes the area directly above your tub where many people want pot lights - these need special wet-location rated fixtures.

Zone 2 covers the area from 0.6 to 2.4 meters from the tub/shower edge, up to 2.25 meters high. Regular light fixtures are allowed here, but they still need GFCI protection if they're within 1.5 meters of the sink or tub. This is where most vanity lighting and general bathroom fixtures go.

Beyond Zone 2, standard electrical rules apply, though GFCI protection is still required within 1.5 meters of any water source per CEC Rule 26-700. This is where you can install regular ceiling fans, standard pot lights, and decorative fixtures without special wet-location ratings.

Common bathroom lighting setups that meet TSANB requirements include LED pot lights with proper IP ratings over the tub area, vanity lighting in Zone 2, and a ceiling fixture or fan beyond the wet zones. All bathroom circuits must be GFCI protected - either with GFCI breakers in the panel or GFCI outlets upstream.

Installation requires a TSANB permit for any new circuits or fixtures, and the work must be done by a licensed electrician. The inspector will specifically check that fixtures are properly rated for their zones and that GFCI protection is correctly installed.

Safety is critical - water and electricity don't mix. Improper bathroom wiring has caused electrocutions in New Brunswick homes. Always verify your electrician understands these zone requirements and uses properly rated fixtures.

Need help finding an electrician familiar with bathroom electrical codes? New Brunswick Electrical can match you with local professionals who understand TSANB requirements for safe bathroom installations.