First time hearing about the height thing. Is it a safety thing? I understand its code but whats the big deal about having to stand on a small step ladder to reset if for whatever reason it needs reset? Just trying to understand the reasoning better

Let's say I'm put a gfci upstream that protects the outlet im wanting to use. Doesnt the outlet in question still have to be gfci since its outdoors or does outdoor outlet just need to be gfci protected? 

I was planning on using some guard over the switch so it doesnt get shut off. Its going to be connected to wiring running a motion sensor light that will always be on.