Receptacles serving island and peninsular countertops are now optional rather than mandatory, provided a junction box or conduit is installed for future expansion. Outlets mounted under the countertop—such as on the side of a cabinet are no longer permitted. Permissible placements are strictly limited to listed pop-up assemblies installed in the surface or traditional outlets mounted on or up to 20 inches above the countertop.
210.52(C) (2) Island and Peninsular Countertops and Work Surfaces.
Receptacle outlets, if installed to serve an island or peninsular countertop or work surface, shall be installed in accordance with 210.52(C)(3). If a receptacle outlet is not provided to serve an island or peninsular countertop or work surface, provisions shall be provided at the island or peninsula for future addition of a receptacle outlet to serve the island or peninsular countertop or work surface.
(3) Receptacle Outlet Location.
Receptacle outlets shall be located in one or more of the following:
- (1) On or above, but not more than 500 mm (20 in.) above, a countertop or work surface.
- (2) In a countertop using receptacle outlet assemblies listed for use in countertops.
- (3) In a work surface using receptacle outlet assemblies listed for use in work surfaces or listed for use in countertops.
- This revised section does not go into effect until 12/31/2026.
Till next time be safe work safe.
Jake