How many outlets do I need on a kitchen counter and how far apart?

A receptacle is required at every counter space 12 inches or wider, placed so no point is more than 24 inches from an outlet (IRC E3901.4).

Kitchen and similar countertops need a receptacle at each wall counter space 12 inches or wider, and the outlets must be placed so that no point along the counter is more than 24 inches from a receptacle. In practice that works out to outlets no more than 4 feet apart.

Counter receptacles are generally located not more than 20 inches above the countertop surface, and islands and peninsulas also require at least one receptacle.

Receptacles serving kitchen countertop surfaces must also be GFCI-protected (see E3902).