Code Change Summary: Emergency Disconnects for one- and two-family dwelling units have been deleted.

SME commentary: Since the 2020 NEC^®, emergency disconnects have been required outside and readily accessible to one- and two-family dwelling units. The language for these requirements has created controversy and has changed every code cycle since its inception in 2020.

In the 2026 NEC^®, these requirements will likely be deleted, with the addition of new language in 230.70(A)(1) to simply require service disconnects for one- and two-family dwelling units to be either “on the dwelling unit” or “within sight of the dwelling unit”.

This will apply to new installations, in addition to the replacement of existing service equipment in one- and two-family dwelling units according to new section 230.70(E).

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:

230.70(A) Location. The service disconnecting means shall be installed in accordance with 230.70(A)(1), (A)(2), and (A)(3).

(1) Readily Accessible Location. The service disconnecting means shall be installed at a readily accessible location either outside of a building or structure or inside nearest the point of entrance of the service conductors.

(2) Bathrooms. Service disconnecting means shall not be installed in bathrooms.

(3) Remote Control. Where a remote control device(s) is used to actuate the service disconnecting means, the service disconnecting means shall be located in accordance with 230.70(A)(1).

2026 Code Language:

230.85 Emergency Disconnects. For one- and two-family dwelling units, an emergency disconnecting means shall be installed.

230.70(A) Service Disconnect Location. The service disconnecting means shall be installed in accordance with 230.70(A)(1) through 230.70(A)(3).

(1) One- and Two-Family Dwellings. Service disconnects shall be installed in a readily accessible outdoor location in accordance with one of the following:

(1) On the dwelling unit

(2) Within sight of the dwelling unit in accordance with 110.29

Exception: The service disconnect shall not be required to be installed on or within sight of the dwelling unit when an emergency disconnect is installed in accordance with 225.41.

(2) Other than One- and Two-Family Dwellings. Service disconnects shall be installed in a readily accessible location either outside of a building or structure or inside nearest the point of entrance of the service conductors.

(3) Bathrooms. Service disconnecting means shall not be installed in bathrooms.

230.70(B) Service Disconnect Marking. Service disconnects shall be marked in accordance with 230.70(B)(1) and 230.70(B)(2).

N (1) Marking. Service disconnects shall be marked “SERVICE DISCONNECT.” The marking shall be on or adjacent to the service disconnect and comply with 110.21(B).

N (2) One- and Two-Family Dwellings. Enclosures of disconnects for one- and two-family dwellings shall be marked “EMERGENCY DISCONNECT.”

Markings shall comply with 110.21(B) and both of the following:

(1) The markings shall be located on the outside front of the disconnect enclosure with a red background and white text.

(2) The letters shall be at least 13mm (1⁄2 in.) high.

N 230.70 (E) Replacement. Replacement of service equipment for one- and two- family dwellings shall comply with 230.70(A), 230.70(B), and 230.70(C).

Exception: If only meter sockets, service entrance conductors, or related raceways and fittings are replaced, the requirements 230.70(A)(1) and 230.70(B)(2) shall not apply.