Section 408.4/Panel Schedule Circuit Directory
NEC 408.4 requires every circuit in a panelboard to have a legible directory identifying the circuit purpose, making incomplete panel schedules a common plan review comment.
Every circuit in a panelboard must be legibly identified as to its clear, evident, and specific purpose or use. The identification must be on a circuit directory located on the face or inside the door of the panelboard. Spare circuit positions must be identified. The circuit directory must not use handwriting (2023 NEC requirement). Each circuit must be identified with sufficient detail to distinguish it from all other circuits.
Why this section exists
A properly labeled panel directory is essential for safety. When an electrician needs to de-energize a circuit for maintenance or in an emergency, they must be able to quickly identify the correct breaker. Vague labels like "misc" or "lights" covering multiple unrelated circuits create confusion. Handwritten directories become illegible over time. The 2023 NEC tightened these requirements after decades of poorly labeled panels causing delays and safety incidents.
What plan reviewers look for
Plan reviewers check the panel schedule on the electrical drawings for clear, specific circuit descriptions. They verify that every breaker position has an identification (including spares). They check that the descriptions are specific enough to identify the area or equipment served, not just generic labels.
Common violations
Related NEC requirements
Section 408.3 covers panelboard installation and construction. Section 110.22 covers identification of disconnecting means. Section 210.3covers branch circuit ratings. Section 240.4 covers overcurrent protection that determines the breaker sizes shown on the schedule.