Code Change Summary: New code definitions in Article 100 related to Cannabis oil booths and equipment.

SME commentary: In the 2026 NEC^®, the inclusion of definitions for Cannabis Oil Booths, Cannabis Oil Equipment, and associated system components represents a critical step forward in aligning electrical safety requirements with the rapidly expanding cannabis industry. These new definitions are a step forward to establish a foundational vocabulary that allows for consistent code interpretation, enforcement, and safe design practices in facilities engaging in cannabis oil processing.

1. Cannabis Oil Booths are enclosed areas that house cannabis oil equipment and systems.
   The definition of cannabis oil booths recognizes these enclosures as distinct areas within a facility, often comparable to spray booths or hazardous (classified) locations. By formally identifying booths as enclosed areas dedicated to cannabis oil processing, the NEC^® enables AHJs and design professionals to apply appropriate wiring methods, explosion protection, and ventilation requirements where appropriate. The informational note clarifies that booth size may vary. Cannabis oil booths can be designed to house single or multiple pieces of cannabis oil equipment. Booths can range in size and be large enough to allow entrance of personnel to perform the processing tasks.
2. Cannabis Oil Extraction Equipment is equipment that uses flammable materials (such as solvents) in the process of extracting the plant oil from the plant material.
   This definition addresses the core hazard: the use of flammable solvents such as butane, ethanol, hexane, pentane, and propane in oil extraction. Clearly identifying such equipment ensures that installations are evaluated under NEC^® Chapter 5 requirements for hazardous locations, as applicable. By the informational note acknowledging that extraction may occur in vented, sealed, or pressurized vessels, the code language prompts electrical designers to consider pressure ratings, bonding/grounding, intrinsic safety, and control system isolation.
3. Cannabis Oil Post-Processing Equipment is equipment used in the final processing stages of the extracted plant oil.
   Post-processing steps often involve elevated temperatures, vacuum systems, and solvent recovery, all of which pose distinct electrical and fire safety challenges. The informational note identifies equipment like rotary evaporators and vacuum ovens as part of this phase, which should raise awareness of appropriate product listings, motor control requirements, and explosion-proof provisions, where solvents may still be present during processing.
4. Cannabis Oil Preparatory Equipment is equipment used to prepare the plant material for subsequent extraction of the plant oil.
   While not inherently hazardous in terms of flammable atmosphere, preparatory equipment such as dryers or trimmers can introduce particulate matter and operate in close proximity to solvent-based systems. Their inclusion helps ensure that the entire process chain is considered during facility design and hazard analysis.
5. Cannabis Oil Systems include any combination of cannabis oil equipment required for the overall extraction process.
   The term "systems" consolidates the full suite of equipment into a single conceptual framework, reinforcing that safety cannot be approached piecemeal. This holistic perspective aligns with requirements for systems throughout Article 512.

These new definitions serve not only to improve clarity and code enforceability but also to elevate industry awareness of the unique hazards posed by cannabis oil processing. By establishing precise definitions, the 2026 NEC^® supports safer facility design, better risk assessment, and enhanced collaboration between engineers, inspectors, and facility operators in this growing and often highly regulated sector.

Below is a preview of the NEC^®. See the actual NEC^® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2026 NEC^® edition of NFPA 70.

2023 Code Language:

The code definitions did not exist.

2026 Code Language:

Article 100 Definitions.

N Cannabis Oil Booths. Enclosed areas that house cannabis oil equipment and systems.

Informational Note: Cannabis oil booths can be designed to house single or multiple pieces of cannabis oil equipment. Booths can range in size and be large enough to allow entrance of personnel to perform the processing tasks.

N Cannabis Oil Extraction Equipment. Equipment which uses flammable materials (such as solvents) in the process of extracting the plant oil from the plant material.

Informational Note: Extraction equipment can use flammable materials such as solvents to extract the oil from the plant material by saturating the plant material in a vented container, sealed container, or pressure vessel. Typical flammable materials used in the extraction process can include butane, ethanol, hexane, pentane, propane, and LPG.

N Cannabis Oil Post-Processing Equipment. Equipment used in the final processing stages of the extracted plant oil.

Informational Note: Examples of cannabis oil post-processing equipment can include vacuum ovens, rotary evaporators, and solvent recovery pumps.

N Cannabis Oil Preparatory Equipment. Equipment used to prepare the plant material for subsequent extraction of the plant oil.

Informational Note:  Examples of cannabis oil preparatory equipment can include trimming, deseeding, and drying/curing equipment.

N Cannabis Oil Systems. Any combination of cannabis oil equipment required for the overall extraction process.

Informational Note: Examples of cannabis oil systems can include any combination of cannabis oil preparatory equipment, cannabis oil extraction equipment, cannabis oil booths, and cannabis oil post-processing equipment.