Code Change Summary: The language on splicing and tapping service conductors was revised and a new informational note was added.

SME commentary: In the 2026 NEC^®, Section 230.46 keeps the existing permission to splice or tap service-entrance conductors, but the text has been streamlined and refocused. The opening sentence now points users to 110.14, 300.7(E), 300.15, and 300.17, updating and aligning the cross-references that govern the mechanics and locations of splicing and tapping service-entrance conductors. The remainder of the section is reformatted into a short list that is easier to read and apply in the field.

A significant editorial change is what 230.46 no longer contains. Previous NEC^® editions mixed listing and marking concepts here. In 2026, all product listing requirements for service equipment are consolidated in new 230.2. That section now states which service-related items must be listed or, where permitted, field evaluated. By moving those directives to 230.2, Section 230.46 can concentrate on identification for line-side use without duplicating the listing mandate.

2026 NEC^® Section 230.46 now specifies that equipment installed on service conductors shall be marked or identified as “suitable for use on the line side of the service equipment” or an equivalent designation. The list that follows names the affected components and includes:

(1) Power distribution blocks

(2) Pressure connectors

(3) Devices for splices and taps

This keeps the focus on the unique conditions present on the line side of service equipment and ensures that only components evaluated for that location are used.

A new Informational Note clarifies industry practice by recognizing the abbreviation “SVC” as an equivalent identification for “suitable for use on the line side of service equipment.” The informational note addresses a practical labeling hurdle raised by manufacturers and test laboratories. Many of these components are small and do not have enough surface area for the full wording. Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories often allow the required identification to appear on the smallest unit container or on an included information sheet when product size limits direct marking. The new informational note helps installers and inspectors by confirming that “SVC” communicates the same product suitability, but reinforces the need to retain the package for the inspection when small parts cannot carry every important marking on the device itself.

Together, these revisions make Section 230.46 concise and easier to enforce. Listing direction now lives in 230.2, marking for service suitability remains in 230.46, and the SVC note removes uncertainty when space limits the available text on small components used on the line side.

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:

230.46 Spliced and Tapped Conductors. Service-entrance conductors shall be permitted to be spliced or tapped in accordance with 110.14, 300.5(E), 300.13, and 300.15. Power distribution blocks, pressure connectors, and devices for splices and taps shall be listed. Power distribution blocks installed on service conductors shall be marked “suitable for use on the line side of the service equipment” or equivalent.

Pressure connectors and devices for splices and taps installed on service conductors shall be marked “suitable for use on the line side of the service equipment” or equivalent.

2026 Code Language:

230.46 Spliced and Tapped Conductors. Service-entrance conductors shall be permitted to be spliced or tapped in accordance with 110.14, 300.7(E), 300.15, and 300.17.

The following equipment installed on service conductors shall be marked or identified as “suitable for use on the line side of the service equipment” or equivalent:

(1) Power distribution blocks

(2) Pressure connectors

(3) Devices for splices and taps

Informational Note: The marking “SVC” is an industry identification that is considered equivalent to “suitable for use on the line side of service equipment.”