Here in NJ if you or the homeowner doesn't want to follow the NEC you can ask for a variation to the code. This will allow the AHJ to forgo some of the code but it will also take the resposabilty away from them. For example, you don't want a receptacle on the island. The homeowner who has small children can ask for relif from the code, they may have to put in extra receptacles on the countertop in order to by pass the code, but they don't have to worry about one on the island because of the safety of their children. Some AHJ's will give this, and some will not. You might have to ask the ahj in your area if he will allow such a thing.
Harold
