Beginning in 2026, New York State is adopting updates to the Uniform Fire Prevention & Building Code that reference the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC).

One of the most significant changes is the requirement for a readily accessible outdoor emergency disconnect at one- and two-family homes.

If you plan to upgrade your electrical panel, add an EV charger, install solar, add a generator, or replace your service equipment anytime in 2026 or beyond — this update will affect your project.

Clemens Electric is here to break down what the rule is, why it exists, and what New York homeowners need to do to prepare.

What Is the “Outside Emergency Disconnect” Requirement?

Under NEC 230.85 and related sections, certain dwelling units must now have an outdoor, clearly labeled disconnecting means that allows firefighters and first responders to shut off power without entering the home.

This disconnect must be:

• Outside and readily accessible
• Clearly labeled (“EMERGENCY DISCONNECT”)
• Rated for service use
• Located at an approved location near the meter, service equipment, or main entry point of conductors

New York’s adoption of the 2023 NEC in 2026 means this requirement becomes the statewide standard for:

• New electrical services
• Service upgrades
• Service relocations
• Panel replacements that involve meter or service equipment changes

Your existing service is generally “grandfathered” — but any permitted service work moving forward will require compliance.

Why Is New York Adopting This Requirement? (Safety First)

The outside disconnect rule was created after years of data showing that firefighters often face:

• Energized structural components
• Delays entering burning structures due to panel location
• Uncertainty about which breaker disconnects the whole house

An exterior emergency disconnect:

• Allows first responders to kill the power immediately
• Reduces shock hazards
• Makes fire and rescue operations safer
• Creates a standardized, predictable location for shutoff

This update strengthens the safety of both homeowners and emergency personnel.

What Types of Installations Require the Outdoor Disconnect?

Required for:

• New electrical services (200A, 150A, 100A, etc.)
• Service upgrades (ex: upgrading 100A, 200A)
• Service relocations (moving service to a new wall)
• Meter replacements that involve service conductor changes
• Solar installations that require service upgrades
• Generator installations that require service upgrades
• EV charging installations requiring a service/panel upgrade

NOT required for:

• Existing services that remain untouched
• Minor panel work that does not alter service equipment
• Branch-circuit-only work (new circuits, outlets, lighting, etc.)

If you are unsure whether your project triggers the rule, Clemens Electric can review your existing service and give a definitive answer.

What Counts as an Approved Emergency Disconnect?

The 2023 NEC allows several compliant options, depending on the installation.

Option 1: A Main Breaker in an Outdoor Panel

• Most common solution
• Used when upgrading to a modern outdoor panelboard
• Provides both the main disconnect and extra breaker spaces

Option 2: An Outdoor Service Disconnect Switch

• A standalone fused or non-fused disconnect
• Typically mounted next to the meter
• Clean solution for homes keeping their existing interior panel

Option 3: The Line-Side Disconnect on a Transfer Switch

• For homes installing a standby generator
• Certain generator transfer switches qualify as the emergency disconnect
• Must be properly labeled

Option 4: Meter/Main Combo Units

• Combines the meter and disconnect into a single enclosure
• Common for new-construction homes
• Saves space and cuts down on conduit/wiring

Clemens Electric will determine the safest and most cost-effective option for your home.

How This Affects NY Homeowners in 2026

New York’s transition to the 2023 NEC means homeowners will begin seeing:

1. Slightly Higher Costs on Service Upgrades

Outdoor-rated disconnect equipment is more expensive than traditional indoor installations.
Expect $450–$1,000 in added material/equipment cost depending on:

• Brand
• Amperage
• Location
• Whether the meter needs relocation

Labor may increase slightly if trenching, conduit runs, or wall penetrations are required.

2. Cleaner, Modern Installations

New installations will look more organized and professional with:

• Grouped outdoor service equipment
• Clearly labeled disconnects
• Updated grounding/bonding requirements
• Better accessibility for homeowners and inspectors

3. Faster Inspections

Inspectors now have one place to check:

• Service rating
• Disconnect operation
• Labeling
• Grounding/bonding
• Service conductor routing

This leads to fewer failed inspections.

4. Better Long-Term Safety

Even if your existing system is grandfathered, upgrading to include an outdoor disconnect is:

• Safer for you
• Safer for emergency responders
• Better for future resale value
• Required sooner or later for most service upgrades