NEC® Changes · 2020 NEC®

590.6 GFCI for temporary power

RevisedChanged in the 2020 NEC® (from the 2017 NEC®)· Updated October 24, 2026

What changed in 590.6

Special purpose GFCI is no longer allowed for temporary receptacle outlets, and an assured grounding program must now be documented and made available to the AHJ.

Point by point

  • Special purpose GFCI protection was removed as an option for temporary receptacle outlets.

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  • 3 more points on exactly what changed
  • The 2017 rule next to the 2020 rule, side by side
  • Why it changed
  • What to do and check on the job

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This section across NEC® editions

2020 NEC®RevisedYou're here

Special purpose GFCI is no longer allowed for temporary receptacle outlets, and an assured grounding program must now be documented and made available to the AHJ.

2023 NEC®No change

This section did not change from 2020 to 2023.

2026 NEC®Revised

Found at 590.7 in the 2026 NEC®.

Temporary power GFCI rules moved from 590.6 to 590.7, and the portable generator part now spells out when a portable GFCI cord set can stand in.

Open the 2026 page →

More 2020 changes in Article 590

This is a plain-English summary, not the NEC®'s exact wording. Always check the full section in the NEC® edition your area has adopted, plus any local amendments.

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