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  1. 1Index: Receptacles
  2. 2see Receptacle Outlets
  3. 3210.52 Dwelling unit receptacle outlets
  4. 4(C) Countertops and work surfaces
  5. 5Exception No. 2
  6. 6see Figure 210.52(C)(1)
  7. 7see 406.14(E)
…the receptacle outlet shall be permitted to be installed as close as practicable to the countertop area to be served.
NFPA 70®, 2026 edition, 210.52(C)(1) Exception No. 2

The wall behind the counter won't take a receptacle. Where can it go?

Shorty

Put it as close to the counter as you can. It still counts toward the receptacles the counter needs. 210.52(C)(1) Ex. 2

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ShortyNEC 2026

How far apart do kitchen countertop receptacles need to be?

Close enough that no point along the countertop wall is more than 24 in. from a receptacle210.52(C)(1). In practice, that's one at least every 4 ft of wall.

You don't need one directly behind a sink or range210.52(C)(1) Ex. 1.

“…no point along the wall line is more than 600 mm (24 in.)…”
Matches NEC 2026, 210.52(C)(1)

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