New Canadian Electrical Code amendments 2026

Introduction

The Canadian Electrical Code, Part I (CE Code) was updated in 2026 with several important changes that directly affect electricians, master electricians, and inspectors. These changes aim to harmonize Canadian standards with the CE Code 2025 while introducing Canada-specific requirements. Here's an overview of the key modifications.

New Requirements for GFCIs and AFCIs

Rule 26-700 has been revised to expand the mandatory installation of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs). Now, GFCIs are required on all residential receptacle circuits, including bathroom and garage lighting circuits. AFCIs, meanwhile, are required in virtually all habitable rooms, including bedrooms and living rooms, in accordance with Rule 26-724(f).

Expanded Grounding Conductors

Table 16 has been amended to increase the minimum size of grounding conductors for installations rated 400 A and higher. For a 600 A service, the grounding conductor increases from 1/0 AWG to 2/0 AWG in copper. This change reflects the increased demands of modern buildings equipped with electric vehicle charging stations and energy management systems.

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

Section 86 has been completely rewritten to govern the installation of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). Requirements include: a dedicated circuit for each Level 2 charging station (40 A minimum), a Class A ground fault protection device (30 mA) for each circuit, and a reinforced grounding requirement. Multi-unit residential buildings must provide conduit for 50% of parking spaces, even if charging stations are not installed immediately. This "pre-wiring" requirement aims to avoid costly civil engineering work when stations are added later. Additionally, all new single-family residential construction must include at least one Level 2 charging receptacle (240 V, 40 A) in the garage or driveway, on a dedicated circuit from the main panel.

Solar Panel Installations

Section 50 has been enhanced to govern grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems. Key new requirements:

• Mandatory disconnection — Any PV system over 10 kW must include a visible, lockable disconnect accessible from outside the building, in accordance with Rule 50-012.
• Arc fault protection (PV AFCI) — Inverters over 6 kW must incorporate DC-side arc fault detection with automatic shutdown in under 2.5 seconds.
• Enhanced labeling — DC conductors between the panels and inverter must be identified with permanent red labels every 3 meters, indicating the system's maximum DC voltage.
• Structure grounding — Aluminum mounting rails must be grounded with a minimum 6 AWG copper conductor, even if the panels are double-insulated.

These requirements apply equally to residential, commercial, and agricultural installations. Installers must hold a Red Seal license with the "renewable energy systems" sub-category to perform this work.

Transition Period

The provincial certification authority has established a transition period to allow the industry to adapt:

• January 1, 2026 — The amendments come into effect. New building permits must comply with the 2026 Code.
• July 1, 2026 — End of the grace period for projects whose permits were issued before January 1, 2026. After this date, all work in progress must comply with the new requirements.
• January 1, 2027 — Provincial certification authority inspections will systematically verify compliance with the new GFCI/AFCI and EVSE requirements. Non-compliance detected after this date will result in mandatory correction notices.

Electricians and master electricians are strongly encouraged to take the update training offered by the Red Seal program and the provincial certification authority before the end of the transition period. These courses, ranging from 4 to 8 hours, cover all the changes and qualify for mandatory continuing education hours.

Conclusion

The 2026 CE Code amendments represent the most significant update since 2018. The expansion of GFCIs and AFCIs, new requirements for charging stations, and solar installations are transforming the daily practice of electricians. For Red Seal exam candidates, these changes are now integrated into the exam syllabus — one more reason to prepare with up-to-date tools. RedSealPractice offers practice questions aligned with the 2026 Code, including the new Sections 50 and 86, to ensure you're ready on exam day.