Kitchen lighting in Morgan Hill, CA

Layers of light

Recessed downlights or a ceiling fixture give overall light. Under-cabinet strips light the counters, where wall cabinets would otherwise cast shadows. Pendants over an island add light where you work and eat.

California energy code

Title 24, Part 6 requires high-efficacy lighting in new and altered residential lighting. Recessed downlights in ceilings must meet its certification rules, and many fixtures need dimmers or vacancy sensors. A remodeler familiar with Title 24 plans fixtures and controls together.

Electrical work

New fixtures and switches mean new wiring, and older homes may need panel capacity checked when adding circuits. Countertop outlets must be GFCI-protected under the electrical code.

Permits in Morgan Hill

The City lists residential kitchen and bathroom remodels under its Simple Plan Check, which means the plans need Building Division review only, not a separate planning approval.
The City requires a permit for any alteration or repair of an existing building, so moving plumbing, adding circuits, changing a gas line or opening a wall all go through the Building Division.
If you are unsure whether your scope needs a permit, the Building Division answers that question directly.

City of Morgan Hill Building Division · 17575 Peak Ave, (408) 778-6480

Common questions

How many recessed lights does a kitchen need?

It depends on ceiling height, fixture output and layout. A lighting plan in the estimate shows where each fixture goes and why.

Does kitchen lighting need a permit?

New wiring, circuits or fixtures generally do. Swapping a fixture on an existing box often doesn't. Check with the permit office for the work you plan.