The NEC says every piece of counter 12 inches or wider must have an outlet over it. Less obtrusive and smaller than a pop-up outlet, the surface-mount Kitchen Countertop Outlet provides power. This article discusses accessibility to outlets over a counter. When you have an L-shaped piece of counter, that effectively puts at least one outlet in. The National Electrical Code (NEC) recommends that outlets should be placed no higher than 20 inches above the countertop, 18-20 inches above the surface, and 44 to 48 inches above the finished floor. This is to enhance safety and accessibility for appliances plugged anywhere on the countertop. 15 amp) for higher power requirements due to appliances like toaster ovens, blenders, coffee makers, and mixers.