What are the rules in the California Electrical Code 2017 for 70.7 volt PA systems?

[PetesGuide]

I'm trying to find out if 70.7-volt PA system speaker wires need to be inside conduit in my jurisdiction, which uses the California 2017 code.

Where are all of the sections that I need to look at to get a complete understanding of the relevant rules?

 

[PetesGuide]

I should add my main concern is if running the wires in conduit is required either indoors or outdoors.

 

[gadfly56]

I should add my main concern is if running the wires in conduit is required either indoors or outdoors.

Is this for fire alarm speakers or general use PA speakers?

 

[PetesGuide]

Is this for fire alarm speakers or general use PA speakers?

General use PA speakers. It's an historic building and I'm trying to get the PA amplifier installed in it wired to indoor and outdoor speakers in a way that's safe, code-compliant, and minimally disruptive to the aesthetics.

 

[hbiss]

I have no idea what it is in California, they probably want some kind of environmentally friendly method used. But here, with work like that it's likely some kind of raceway will need to be used just to make it blend in- unless you are lucky enough to be able to fish or conceal the wiring.

Normally 70.7V is CL2 so no methods need to be used beyond running a CL2 listed cable however you want.

-Hal

 

[tom baker]

In WA we have a admin code that has adds, changes to NEC. CA may have something similar. It’s better for to have and find the sections.

 

[jaggedben]

I have no idea what it is in California, they probably want some kind of environmentally friendly method used.

For the record, when it comes to electrical code (as opposed to energy code) California is basically on the NEC, same as everyone else. Three years behind the NFPA cycle. Very few statewide amendments.

 

[Ponchik]

Have you asked the Foster City building jurisdiction?

 

[tortuga]

There is a common gotchya that you cant mix amplified audio with other class 2 cables in conduit.
Also if your going thru a drop ceiling you need to check if you need plenum rated.

 

[GoldDigger]

There is a common gotchya that you cant mix amplified audio with other class 2 cables in conduit.
Also if your going thru a drop ceiling you need to check if you need plenum rated.

Is this a performance gotcha or a code gotcha? If the latter, what section?

 

[tortuga]

Is this a performance gotcha or a code gotcha? If the latter, what section?

Both really, NEC reference section see 640.9(C) and 725.139(F)