Hello,

I am unsure of how to go about my lighting design for my new addition? I know that commercial buildings have strict codes as far as how many watts per square foot of lighting a building can have. From what I understand the load for a service is calculated and three watts of light per square foot for residential. This is the number used to calculate service. Am I allowed to exceed this amount of light? As three watts per square foot would leave me in the dark. I would much rather have more light than needed and dim it to the situation or mood. Do the watts allowed per square foot apply to residential?

Do the watts allowed per square foot apply to residential?
No. You can do whatever you want.
You have to remember, receptacles are also included in that 3 watts per sq/ft in a residential calculation.