The issue is cost, as it always is with a home owner. If there is switched receptacles in every room, can i tap off of that switch to put lights in the ceiling and not have to run 3 new lighting circuits because the house is 1200 sq ft. I know there are certain requirements for new construction and remodel, i just would like someone to explain the sections that i quoted out of the NEC so that i can get some clarity.
You can wire the place any which way you want.
The issue you ask is if the 500 rule is in the NEC. It is not as per se. The notes on the prints are dictating what you must do. If you want to do something different as I said earlier offer some value engineering as long as it is per code.
You appear to be from CA. CA does not use the NEC but a code made from the NEC called the CA electrical code. We in Kalifornia are on the 2010 CAEC based on the 2008 NEC. Jan 2014 we will be on the CAEC 2014 based on the 2011 NEC.
I am glad I would never be in a position to bid against you, as I could not compete against your logic. One day you are going to have a customer that adds up breakers and circuits and see you shorted them and you will be off the job and into the poor house in one failed swoop. The owner will not let you back to fix the problem. The owner will file with the CSLB and state that it cost thousands more to fix what you did than you would have ever made on the job. You will loose your license because you cannot pay and you will be on the street homeless.
Sorry for the rant and harshness but you got me at the wrong moment and I think you need to hear it from someone who's boss had it happen to them. I also know several others that just don't want to learn. I warned them but did they listen. Nope.