NEC® Changes · 2020 NEC®

600.5 Sign branch circuits

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

What changed in 600.5

Sign outlet rules were clarified, staff and delivery doors don't need one, and new marking rules apply to the sign disconnect.

Point by point

  • Every commercial building or occupancy open to pedestrians needs at least one sign outlet at each tenant entrance.

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  • 4 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

Sign outlet rules were clarified, staff and delivery doors don't need one, and new marking rules apply to the sign disconnect.

2023 NEC®Revised

Two exceptions were added, including one that lets time clocks and photocontrols share the sign circuit.

Open the 2023 page →
2026 NEC®No change

This section did not change from 2023 to 2026.

More 2020 changes in Article 600

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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