Code Change Summary: Revised Section 404.1 limits the scope Article 404 to general-use, motor-circuit, isolating, pullout, circuit breakers used as switches, and molded-case switches operating at not over 1000 volts ac or 1500 volts dc, while moving general-use snap switches, dimmers, pendant switches, surface switches, and electronic control switches to Article 406 under the new category of “wiring devices”.

SME commentary: In the 2026 NEC^®, Article 404 underwent a major structural refinement intended to better organize switch-related rules and align with the broader reclassification of “wiring devices” introduced in Article 100. The former 404.1 Scope applied to virtually all types of switches, including general-use snap, pendant, dimmer, and electronic control switches, along with molded-case switches, motor-circuit switches, and typical general-use disconnect switches. The revision narrows that scope so that Article 404 now applies only to general-use switches, motor-circuit switches, isolating switches, pullout switches, circuit breakers used as switches, and molded-case switches operating at voltages not over 1000 volts ac or 1500 volts dc.

All other switch types, typically installed in outlet boxes with yokes or mounting straps, have been relocated to Article 406. This includes general-use snap switches, pendant switches, surface switches, dimmers, and lighting control switches. These devices are grouped under the newly added Article 100 term “Wiring Device,” defined as “an electrical device with a yoke or used with flexible cord or cable that serves as either a connection point to facilitate the flow of current or as a control device in general distribution and branch circuits.” Examples include attachment plugs, receptacles, general-use snap switches, pendant switches, surface switches, dimmers, and electronic control switches.

This relocation is both logical and consistent with real-world installation practices. Devices such as receptacles and snap switches share a common mounting method and physical configuration, often installed side-by-side within boxes and secured by mounting straps. Grouping them together in Article 406 allows for more coherent requirements and inspection criteria, while keeping Article 404 focused on larger or specialized switches.

The change also brings the NEC^® into closer alignment with NFPA 70B, Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance, which already distinguishes between “Switches” and “Wiring Devices.” In that document, Chapter 17 addresses switches, and Chapter 24 addresses wiring devices. This harmonization across NFPA codes and standards enhances usability and consistency for manufacturers, installers, and inspectors alike.

Another subtle improvement is the addition of voltage qualifiers in 404.1(A), clarifying that the article applies only up to 1000 volts ac or 1500 volts dc unless specifically referenced elsewhere for higher voltages. This clarification resolves ambiguity about where higher-voltage switching rules should be found.

By redefining the scope of Article 404 and introducing the unified term wiring device in Article 100, the NEC^® delivers clearer separation between larger switches and typical box-mounted wiring devices. The reorganization improves readability, aligns related product types under the correct articles, ensuring consistent application of installation requirements for the electrical industry.

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:

404.1 Scope. Article 404 covers all switches, switching devices, and circuit breakers used as switches operating at 1000 volts and below, unless specifically referenced elsewhere in this Code for higher voltages.

Article 404 does not cover wireless control equipment to which circuit conductors are not connected.

2026 Code Language:

404.1 Scope.

N (A) Covered. Article 404 covers the installation of general-use switches, motor-circuit switches, isolating switches, pullout switches, circuit breakers used as switches, and molded-case switches operating at voltages not over 1000 volts ac, 1500 volts dc.

N (B) Not Covered. Article 404 does not cover the installation of the following:

(1) Wireless control equipment to which circuit conductors are not connected

(2) Wiring devices

Informational Note: See 406.1 for wiring devices.