Which NEC article covers general requirements for receptacle outlets in kitchens (small-appliance circuits)?

• A. Article 410.
• B. Article 210.52.
• C. Article 300.
• D. Article 500.

Answer: (B)

Receptacle outlets in kitchens, especially those serving countertop appliances, are addressed under Article 210.52, which sits within Article 210 that covers branch circuits for dwelling units. This section requires two or more 20-amp small-appliance branch circuits to supply receptacle outlets in kitchens, pantries, breakfast rooms, and dining areas, ensuring there’s enough dedicated capacity for countertop appliances. It also specifies where those outlets go (such as along countertops) and rules for islands or peninsulas so there are outlets accessible where appliances are used. So this article directly governs the general requirements for kitchen receptacle outlets and the small-appliance circuits that feed them. Other parts of the code cover different topics like lighting equipment, general wiring methods, or hazardous locations, which is why they don’t apply to kitchen receptacle requirements.