The short answer
Montana enforces NEC 2023, the current edition there, statewide, in effect since September 26, 2026. The state record lists three amendments to know: 210.12, 210.8 and 230.71.
- Current edition
- NEC 2023 (current)
- Adoption
- Statewide
- In effect since
- September 26, 2026
- Primary source
- bsd.dli.mt.gov
Code adoption cycles change. Always confirm the edition and amendments in force with your Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) before permitting work.
How does Montana adopt the NEC?
Montana adopts the NEC statewide through the Department of Labor and Industry's Building Codes Program (ARM 24.301.401), with Montana amendments: AFCI protection no longer applies to kitchens, GFCI protection is not required for kitchen refrigerators and freezers, listed HVAC equipment or outdoor septic-alarm and well circuits, and 250-volt receptacles are removed from the GFCI rules.
What are Montana's amendments to the NEC?
210.12: All references to kitchens are deleted from the AFCI requirements, and dwelling-unit AFCI protection extends to unfinished basements (ARM 24.301.401(9) and (10)).
210.8: GFCI protection is not required for kitchen refrigerators and freezers or for listed HVAC equipment, outdoor outlets for septic-alarm and well circuits are excluded, items 8 to 12 of 210.8(D) are deleted, and 250-volt receptacles are removed from 210.8(A) and (B) (ARM 24.301.401(3) to (8)).
230.71: A service may have up to six disconnecting means in a single enclosure, a group of enclosures, a switchboard or switchgear, or meet 230.71(B) (ARM 24.301.401(12)).
Who issues electrical permits in Montana?
The state inspects directly in most areas; a small number of larger cities run delegated local programs.
Who licenses electricians in Montana?
Statewide licensing of master, journeyman, and residential electricians through the State Electrical Board. Licensing board: Montana Department of Labor and Industry - State Electrical Board.
Montana Department of Labor and Industry - State Electrical Board
Is Montana moving to a newer NEC edition?
On NEC 2023 since 2026-09-26 (ARM 24.301.401, amended under Notice No. 2026-95); no move to NEC 2026 has been announced.
Is Montana on NEC 2026?
No. NEC 2026 is the newest edition; the one current in Montana is NEC 2023, one edition older. NFPA publishes a new edition every three years and each state adopts on its own schedule.