CQD Spotlight features questions and answers from NECA and ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR’s Code Question of the Day program. Whether you’re a seasoned contractor, an apprentice or simply a National Electrical Code enthusiast, you’ll gain knowledge with a nod to the legacy of Charles M. “Charlie” Trout, a true NEC legend.

From the archives—Monday, Aug. 12, 2024

I have had several debates online regarding the changes made to 210.52(C)(3) in the 2023 NEC. Specifically, the removal of the language that allowed a receptacle, installed less than or equal to 12 in. below the countertop with an overhang of 6 in. or less, to count as serving the countertop. Many have interpreted this as prohibiting any receptacle from being installed below the countertop surface. I cannot find any language prohibiting this, just a lack of language allowing such a receptacle from being used to satisfy the requirements of 210.52(C)(2). Also, in the case of an island or peninsula that divides a room or rooms, a receptacle may be required by 210.52(A), which is allowed to be up to 5½ feet above the floor and is prohibited from being above the countertop by 210.52(C). There is also no language prohibiting a nonrequired receptacle from being installed just for convenience of the end user. What is your interpretation of this language change?

The NEC is made up of “mandatory” and “permissive” rules, as defined in Section 3.1 of the NEC Style Manual. Both rule types establish mandatory language; a permissive rule does so by providing options for compliance. Section 210.52(C)(3)(1)–(3) is a permissive rule that provides a list of permitted installation locations for receptacles intended to serve a peninsula or island countertop or work surface. By excluding the location below a countertop or work surface as an option for such receptacles, by rule, such installations would be prohibited. However, you are correct in that a receptacle installed below the countertop or work surface that is not intended to serve the island or peninsular countertop/work surface, but to serve as a required wall space receptacle or convenience receptacle, would be permitted.

From the archives—Monday, April 8, 2024

We make cabinetries for all rooms of a house but mostly we build kitchen cabinetry. We try to keep up with electrical codes because we often make provisions for and install unwired outlets into the sides of cabinets for islands and peninsulas. Since the 2023 update to 210.52(C)(3) does not allow installation of outlet receptacles below the countertop, should we not be making provisions for or installing outlets into our cabinetry that will place the outlet below the countertop? When does this rule go into effect?

You are correct, the 2023 edition of the NEC came with some changes to the receptacle requirements for island and peninsular countertops: The NEC no longer requires a receptacle to be installed to serve an island or peninsula countertop. You are still permitted to install a receptacle for an island or peninsula countertop, but it must be installed above it, i.e., backsplash or listed pop-up style receptacle. If there is no receptacle installed to serve the countertop of an island or peninsula, then permanent provisions must be made for the connection of a future receptacle. This will go into effect when the local jurisdiction adopts the 2023 NEC; every state is different.

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Post sponsored by Eaton Corp.

During the 2023 Code cycle, significant attention was given to the number of children and adults who have suffered severe injuries from pulling appliances such as crock-pots and deep fryers off countertops due to power cords hanging over the edge. The Consumer Product Safety Commission presented data and statistical evidence to the Code-Making Panel to highlight this issue and demonstrate the problem’s extent. Statistical data did not exist before 1990.

The expansion of kitchen receptacle requirements began with the 1990 edition of the NEC when it became evident that additional outlets were needed. At the time, many appliances were equipped with clocks and required continuous power, reducing the number of available receptacles. The 1990 NEC first introduced the requirement mandating at least one receptacle on kitchen islands and peninsulas.

Video 210.52(C)

Meeting customer needs:

USB multiport charging solutions present options that could serve homeowner wants and needs to power such products as computers, phones and other USB-powered solutions. These solutions do not have receptacles located on them and cannot power those items associated with the hazards presented to the Code panel. The options available on the market are numerous and could meet the needs of homeowners.

Example of USB multiport charging solution These are a solution to meet the code and needs of your customer.

More information on receptacles in islands and peninsulas

Eaton Codes & Standards Center of Excellence