Code Change Summary: Section 314.23(E) now permits FS or FD single-gang device boxes and explosionproof outlet boxes to be supported by a single raceway.

SME commentary: In the 2026 NEC^®, the exception in Section 314.23(E) has been expanded to include FS and FD single-gang device boxes, as well as explosionproof outlet boxes of any size, in addition to conduit bodies. Historically, the allowance for a single raceway to support an enclosure applied only to conduit bodies, provided that the trade size of the conduit body did not exceed that of the supporting raceway. The revised language now broadens that permission and includes additional enclosure types whose structural integrity and threaded hub design make them suitable for single-raceway support.

The permitted wiring methods for single-raceway support remain the same as in prior editions, and include Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC), Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC), Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Reinforced Thermosetting Resin Conduit (RTRC), and Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT).

Without the exception, the general rule in 314.23(E) limits raceway-supported enclosures to those that do not contain devices, luminaires, or other equipment. Such enclosures must not exceed 100 cubic inches in volume, must have threaded entries or hubs, and must be supported by at least two threaded conduits that are wrench-tight to the box. Each supporting conduit must be secured within 3 feet of the enclosure, or within 18 inches when all conduits enter from the same side. These provisions ensure that the raceway system provides adequate mechanical support without risk of the enclosure separating from the raceways and exposing conductors.

By extending the exception, the Code-Making Panel recognized that FS and FD cast device boxes and explosionproof outlet boxes are inherently robust due to their threaded hubs and thick-wall construction. These enclosures can be supported directly by the conduit, unlike sheet-metal boxes with thin walls and standard threadless knockouts. The threaded entries of FS, FD, and explosionproof boxes provide a secure mechanical connection that ensures raceway support remains effective under normal use and vibration.

This change is particularly beneficial for industrial, commercial, and hazardous locations where compact, corrosion-resistant, or explosionproof boxes are commonly used for splicing or pull points. It eliminates the need for auxiliary support fittings or brackets when a single threaded raceway connection provides sufficient mechanical strength.

This revision broadens the practical application of raceway-supported enclosures while maintaining mechanical and safety integrity. By recognizing the threaded construction and strength characteristics of FS, FD, and explosionproof boxes, the 2026 NEC^® gives installers greater flexibility for secure, code-compliant installations without compromising the intent of Section 314.23(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:

314.23(E) Raceway-Supported Enclosure, Without Devices, Luminaires, or Lampholders. An enclosure that does not contain a device, other than splicing devices, or supports a luminaire, a lampholder, or other equipment and is supported by entering raceways shall not exceed 100 in.³ in size. It shall have threaded entries or identified hubs. It shall be supported by two or more conduits threaded wrenchtight into the enclosure or hubs. Each conduit shall be secured within 3 ft. of the enclosure, or within 18 in. of the enclosure if all conduit entries are on the same side.

Exception: The following wiring methods shall be permitted to support a conduit body of any size, including a conduit body constructed with only one conduit entry, provided that the trade size of the conduit body is not larger than the largest trade size of the conduit or tubing:

(1) Intermediate metal conduit, IMC

(2) Rigid metal conduit, RMC

(3) Rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit, PVC

(4) Reinforced thermosetting resin conduit, RTRC

(5) Electrical metallic tubing, EMT

2026 Code Language:

314.23(E) Raceway-Supported Enclosures Without Devices, Luminaires, or Lampholders. Enclosures that do not contain devices, other than splicing devices, or support luminaires, lampholders, or other equipment and are supported by entering raceways shall not exceed 100 in.³ in size. Enclosures shall have threaded entries or identified hubs and be supported by two or more conduits threaded wrenchtight into the enclosure or hubs. Each conduit shall be secured within 3 ft. of the enclosure, or within 18 in. of the enclosure if all conduit entries are on the same side.

Exception: A conduit body of trade size not larger than the largest trade size of the conduit or tubing, an FS or FD single gang device box, or an explosionproof outlet box of any size, with one or more entries, shall be permitted to be supported by a single raceway of the following wiring methods:

(1) Intermediate metal conduit, IMC

(2) Rigid metal conduit, RMC

(3) Rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit, PVC

(4) Reinforced thermosetting resin conduit, RTRC

(5) Electrical metallic tubing, EMT