Code Change Summary: Section 210.52(D) for bathroom receptacle outlet placement has been reformatted into three distinct list items without changing the technical requirements.

SME commentary: In the 2026 National Electrical Code (NEC), Section 210.52(D) has undergone an editorial revision to improve clarity and compliance with the NEC^® Style Manual. Previously, this section appeared as a single paragraph containing all requirements for dwelling unit bathroom receptacles adjacent to sinks. The 2026 update restructures the text into three separate list items, each addressing a specific element of the rule. Although the reformatting does not change the technical intent or requirements, it does make the information easier to read, reference, and apply in the field. Below are the requirements for the bathroom receptacle serving the sink area:

210.52(D)(1) Receptacle Outlet Requirement. At least one receptacle outlet must be installed in bathrooms within 3 feet of the outside edge of each sink. This ensures that users have a conveniently located receptacle for personal grooming appliances, charging devices, and other common bathroom electrical needs.

210.52(D)(2) Receptacle Outlet Location. The receptacle outlet must be located on a wall or partition that is adjacent to the sink or sink countertop, located on the countertop, or installed on the side or face of the sink cabinet. Receptacles shall not be located more than 12 inches below the top of the sink or sink countertop. This height limitation prevents unsafe cord routing and reduces the risk of cords draping down where they could be damaged or create a tripping hazard.

210.52(D)(3) Countertops. Receptacle outlet assemblies listed for use in countertops are permitted to be installed in the countertop. This allowance recognizes that certain listed countertop-mounted assemblies can meet code requirements when space constraints or design considerations make wall or cabinet locations impractical.

By breaking the requirements into three clearly defined list items, the 2026 NEC^® improves usability for electricians, inspectors, and designers. The restructured format makes it easier to identify each specific provision without the need to parse a lengthy paragraph. This change also enhances enforceability by presenting each requirement in a self-contained format, reducing the potential for misinterpretation.

Although the technical requirements are unchanged from the 2023 NEC^®, the 2026 revision aligns Section 210.52(D) with the NEC^® Style Manual’s emphasis on clarity and consistent formatting. For those working in dwelling unit bathrooms, this updated format should make it quicker to confirm compliance and help avoid oversights in receptacle placement during both design and installation.

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(D) Bathrooms. At least one receptacle outlet shall be installed in bathrooms within 3 feet of the outside edge of each sink. The receptacle outlet shall be located on a wall or partition that is adjacent to the sink or sink countertop, located on the countertop, or installed on the side or face of the sink cabinet. In no case shall the receptacle be located more than 12 inches below the top of the sink or sink countertop. Receptacle outlet assemblies listed for use in countertops shall be permitted to be installed in the countertop.

2026 Code Language:

210.52(D) Bathrooms. Receptacle outlets shall be installed in accordance with 210.52(D)(1) through 210.52(D)(3).

N (1) Receptacle Outlet Requirement. At least one receptacle outlet shall be installed in bathrooms within 3 feet of the outside edge of each sink.

N (2) Receptacle Outlet Location. The receptacle outlet shall be located on a wall or partition that is adjacent to the sink or sink countertop, located on the countertop, or installed on the side or face of the sink cabinet. Receptacles shall not be located more than 12 inches below the top of the sink or sink countertop.

N (3) Countertops. Receptacle outlet assemblies listed for use in countertops shall be permitted to be installed in the countertop.