Reference · 2026

Electrical symbols for floor plans:
the 64 standard icons

All 64 NF C 15-100 electrical symbols used in French electrical floor plans — organized by category with descriptions and usage notes.

Reading time: 6 min·Updated: May 2026

Why use standardized electrical symbols?

Standardized electrical symbols ensure that an electrical floor plan can be read and understood by any electrician, inspector, or architect — regardless of who drew it. In France, the NF C 15-100 standard defines a common symbol library that all electrical professionals use.

Using non-standard or custom symbols creates ambiguity that can lead to installation errors, inspection failures, or problems obtaining insurance coverage after a claim.

The 6 categories of electrical symbols

Power outlets

Outlets are the most numerous elements in any electrical plan. The NF C 15-100 standard defines the minimum number per room based on the room's surface area.

Standard outlet (2P+T)
20A specialized outlet
Double outlet
Weatherproof outdoor outlet

Lighting

Every room must have at least one controlled light point. The symbol indicates the position of the fixture — the wiring connection to the switch is shown separately.

Ceiling light point
Recessed spotlight
Wall sconce point
Fluorescent tube point

Switching

Switches control lighting circuits. 3-way switches (called "va-et-vient" in French) allow a light to be controlled from two different locations — required at room entrances.

Single-pole switch
Double switch
3-way switch (va-et-vient)
Dimmer switch

Data & communication

NF C 15-100 requires at least one RJ45 outlet in the living room and one in each bedroom. Data outlets must be planned on a separate structured cabling system.

RJ45 data outlet
TV aerial outlet
Telephone outlet
Fiber optic outlet

Safety

French law requires at least one interconnected smoke detector (DAAF) per floor. The NF C 15-100 standard requires differential circuit breakers (30 mA) on all circuits in the bathroom and kitchen.

Smoke detector (DAAF)
Carbon monoxide detector
Differential circuit breaker
Surge arrester

HVAC & smart home

VMC (Ventilation Mécanique Contrôlée) is mandatory in all rooms with humidity (kitchen, bathroom, WC). It must be on a dedicated circuit. Smart home devices are increasingly included in modern electrical plans.

VMC (mechanical ventilation)
Air conditioning unit
Smart home hub
Motion detector

FAQ — Electrical symbols

Are electrical symbols standardized internationally?
There is no universal international standard for electrical floor plan symbols. France uses NF C 15-100 symbols, the UK uses BS 7671 symbols, the US uses NFPA 70 (NEC) symbols. They are similar in concept but differ in visual representation. Planelico uses NF C 15-100 symbols, which are used in France, Belgium, and French-speaking countries.
What does the circle symbol mean on an electrical plan?
In NF C 15-100 electrical plans, a circle typically represents a light point (lighting fixture). A circle with a cross inside usually represents a recessed spotlight. The exact meaning depends on the legend of each plan.
How do I show wiring connections between switches and lights?
In Planelico, after placing your switch and light symbols, you can draw a wire connection between them using the wiring tool. This connection shows which switch controls which light(s). For 3-way switching (va-et-vient), you connect both switches to the same light point.
Are all 64 symbols included in the free plan?
Yes. All 64 NF C 15-100 electrical symbols are available on all plans — including the free plan. The difference between plans relates to the number of projects, export quality, and Pro features like custom logo.

Related guides

How to create a house electrical plan

Step-by-step guide, NF C 15-100 compliance.

NF C 15-100 standard explained

Required circuits, minimum outlets, switchboard.

Home electrical wiring diagram

Single-line, multi-wire, floor plan types.

Create your electrical plan now

Planelico lets you create a professional electrical plan in minutes. Free, no installation.

Start for free →Try without an account