Code Change Summary: Revised language clarifies receptacle requirements for island and peninsular countertops and work surfaces and specifies electrical provisions for future use.

SME commentary: NEC^® Section 210.52(C)(2) addresses the requirements for 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacle outlets serving island and peninsular countertops and work surfaces in dwelling unit kitchens, pantries, breakfast rooms, dining rooms, and similar areas. In the 2026 NEC^®, this section was revised for clarity and now references new Section 210.52(C)(4) which clearly identifies where receptacles are prohibited.

One notable change replaces the phrase “if installed” with “if provided” to better convey the intended use of the receptacle. This adjustment was made in response to concerns that the term “if installed” created a gray area. Some installers interpreted it to mean that if a receptacle was installed at the island or peninsula but not intentionally installed for the purpose of serving the countertop, the rules in 210.52(C)(2) did not apply even though the receptacle could still be used for kitchen purposes, potentially allowing homeowners to plug in appliances in a way that defeats the intent of the section. The revised term “if provided” intends to remove this ambiguity by focusing on the presence of a receptacle intended to serve the island or peninsula countertop.

Another significant revision expands the requirement for “provisions” for future receptacle installation by clarifying that these must be “electrical provisions.” The previous wording was considered too vague and difficult to enforce. Now, “if a receptacle outlet is not provided to serve an island or peninsular countertop or work surface, electrical provisions shall be provided at the island or peninsula for future addition of a receptacle outlet to serve the island or peninsular countertop or work surface”. This ensures that compliance can be more easily verified and that future installations can be made without costly modifications to the finished space.

By referencing new Section 210.52(C)(4), the revised language also reinforces the prohibition of receptacles below the countertop surface in these locations. This helps prevent hazards associated with appliance cords dangling over the counter edge to reach an outlet below, which could result in hot liquids being pulled onto someone if the cord is snagged or pulled accidentally.

Together, the coordinated changes in 210.52(A)(2)(5), 210.52(C)(2), and 210.52(C)(4) all share a common goal to ensure the typical 2-foot appliance cord cannot reach a receptacle below a counter and thus create a potential trip/spill/injury scenario. This maintains a consistent approach to receptacles installed in these areas. These rules aim to prevent unsafe appliance cord routing, provide clear direction on island and peninsular receptacle placement, and ensure that if not installed, proper electrical provisions are in place for future compliance.

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:

210.52(C)(2) Island and Peninsular Countertops and Work Surfaces. Receptacle outlets, if installed to serve an island or peninsular countertop or work surface, shall be installed in accordance with 210.52(C)(3). If a receptacle outlet is not provided to serve an island or peninsular countertop or work surface, provisions shall be provided at the island or peninsula for future addition of a receptacle outlet to serve the island or peninsular countertop or work surface.

2026 Code Language:

210.52(C)(2) Island and Peninsular Countertops and Work Surfaces. If provided to serve an island or peninsular countertop or work surface, receptacle outlets shall be installed in accordance with 210.52(C)(3) and 210.52(C)(4). If a receptacle outlet is not provided to serve an island or peninsular countertop or work surface, electrical provisions shall be provided at the island or peninsula for future addition of a receptacle outlet to serve the island or peninsular countertop or work surface.