Things You'll Need:
- NEC guidelines
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Step 1
Explore both local and state building codes when you are installing an outdoor fan. There are also different regulations for commercial and residential space, so make sure you are following the proper codes.
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Step 2
Attain necessary permits. Installing a new ceiling fan may require a mechanical permit from your city, but you may need more if you are building a new patio, trellis or cover. You will be required to submit a plan for a building permit. If you are adding, relocating or changing wiring or switches, you probably need an electrical permit. Your best bet is to call city hall or your building-safety division.
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Step 3
Use only a metal junction box to support a ceiling fan. This is standard building code, but you should check on the minimum size allowed. Some local codes do not allow 3-inch boxes, requiring a 4-inch junction box instead.
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Step 4
Check the UL rating of any ceiling fan you purchase. An outdoor fan should be rated wet. A dry- or damp-rated fixture may not be upgraded to wet standards. To follow building codes, you should only install properly rated fans.
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Step 5
Conform all wiring to both local electrical code and the National Electrical Code (NEC). You can order a copy of the code for yourself or read it online at the National Fire Protection Association website (see Resources below).
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Step 6
Hang your fan with a minimum floor-to-ceiling height of 7 feet. While this is common practice to avoid dangerous brushes with the blades, many building codes reinforce this measurement. Depending on your room size, you may want to hang it higher to provide better coverage.
