NEC® Changes · 2026 NEC®

620.51 Elevator disconnect

RevisedChanged in the 2026 NEC® (from the 2023 NEC®)· Updated October 24, 2026

What changed in 620.51

An exception for adjustable speed drives was added, and every elevator now needs a surge protective device.

Point by point

  • New Exception No. 3 to 620.51(A) applies where an individual branch circuit feeds an elevator controller that uses an adjustable speed drive.

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Get the whole breakdown

  • 3 more points on exactly what changed
  • The 2023 rule next to the 2026 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®No change

This section did not change from 2017 to 2020.

2023 NEC®No change

This section did not change from 2020 to 2023.

2026 NEC®RevisedYou're here

An exception for adjustable speed drives was added, and every elevator now needs a surge protective device.

More 2026 changes in Article 620

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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