With the adoption of the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC), electricians across New York State have been working to understand the new requirement for emergency disconnects at one- and two-family dwellings. One question has come up more than any other: If only the service riser or the electric meter is being replaced, is an exterior emergency disconnect required?
The answer is no, and the reason is clearly stated in NEC 230.85. While this section establishes when emergency disconnects must be installed, it also provides an important exception that electricians should understand to avoid unnecessary work and added costs.
NEC 230.85 requires that one- and two-family dwelling units be provided with an emergency disconnecting means. The intent of this requirement is to improve safety for emergency responders by allowing power to be shut off quickly from outside the building, without the need to enter the structure during a fire or other emergency. When required, the emergency disconnect must be installed in a readily accessible outdoor location that is either on the dwelling or within sight of it.
The Code further requires that if more than one disconnecting means is provided, they must be grouped together so they can be easily identified and operated in an emergency.
NEC 230.85 also specifies the acceptable types of disconnecting means that may be used to satisfy this requirement. The emergency disconnect may be a traditional service disconnect, a meter disconnect integral to the meter mounting equipment that is not marked “suitable only for use as service equipment,” or another listed disconnect switch or circuit breaker installed on the supply side of the service disconnect. In all cases, the equipment must be properly listed and marked in accordance with the Code.
Where confusion often arises is in replacement work. NEC 230.85(C) makes it clear that when service equipment is replaced, all of the requirements of this section apply, including the installation of an exterior emergency disconnect. However, the Code provides a critical exception that answers the most common question electricians are asking. The exception states that where only meter sockets, service entrance conductors, or related raceways and fittings are replaced, the requirements of 230.85 do not apply.
In practical terms, this means that replacing a damaged or outdated meter socket, upgrading a service riser, changing service entrance conductors, or replacing conduits and fittings does not trigger the requirement to add an exterior emergency disconnect, as long as the service equipment itself is not being replaced. This distinction is important and should be clearly documented in the scope of work to avoid misunderstandings during inspections.
Another key component of NEC 230.85 involves identification and labeling. Emergency disconnects must be clearly marked so that first responders can quickly identify them. The Code requires specific wording depending on the type of disconnect used, such as “EMERGENCY DISCONNECT, SERVICE DISCONNECT” or “EMERGENCY DISCONNECT, NOT SERVICE EQUIPMENT.” These markings must be placed on the outside front of the enclosure, use a red background with white lettering, and have letters at least one-half inch high, in accordance with NEC 110.21(B).
Finally, NEC 230.85 addresses situations where a dwelling has additional energy sources, such as generators, photovoltaic systems, or energy storage systems. If the disconnecting means for those systems is not located adjacent to the emergency disconnect, a plaque or directory must be installed identifying the location of all other isolation disconnects. This ensures that emergency personnel are aware of all sources of power supplying the building.
Understanding the intent and exact language of NEC 230.85 is essential for electricians working under the 2023 NEC. While emergency disconnects are now required in many situations, the Code clearly states that routine replacement of meters, risers, and service conductors alone does not require their installation. Knowing when the requirement applies, and when it does not, helps electricians stay compliant, avoid unnecessary upgrades, and provide clear explanations to customers and inspectors alike.
Final Note:
Electricians should always verify any additional requirements with the local utility company, as utilities may have rules that go beyond the NEC. If you have any questions regarding the 2023 NEC emergency disconnect requirements or how they apply to a specific installation, please do not hesitate to reach out to us for clarification.