According to NEC, what is the maximum number of receptacle outlets allowed on a 120-volt residential lighting circuit?

The correct understanding is that the National Electrical Code (NEC) does not specify a maximum number of receptacle outlets for a 120-volt residential lighting circuit. Instead, the NEC allows for a practical consideration where the number of outlets is determined primarily by the load on the circuit.

For residential lighting circuits, the general guideline is to ensure that it does not exceed 80% of the circuit’s capacity. A standard 15-amp circuit at 120 volts can supply up to 1,440 watts; thus, determining how many receptacles can be added depends on the devices that will be used simultaneously.

This means that if the individual load of devices connected to the circuit is reasonably low, numerous receptacles can be installed without risk of overloading the circuit. This flexibility is what allows the statement of "unlimited receptacles" to be considered correct under the NEC, as long as the circuit's actual usage does not exceed its safe operating limits.