I don't buy the handbook because I have no use for it. I don't need someone to tell me what they think the rule means. That being said a lot of people use that book and assume that it is an offical document. Most of the time it is correct, but not aways.
As far as not being an interpertation, the NEC is an ANSI standard and I believe there are specific procedures required for an "official" interpertation. In the case of the NEC, that requires the submission of a request for "formal interpertation". The questions must be phrased so that they can be answered "yes" or "no". The request is sent to the members of the code making panel and they vote on it just like they do on a change proposal.
Look I don't rely on the Handbook , some do. I got mine free with the purchase of the NEC. That is why I have one. As far as the only place to rely on an interpetation is to get an official ruleing by writing in. That is unbeliveable that someone would actually put in print.
Just so you know some AHJ actually use the handbook to understand the code and enforce it.
I think this thread should be closed as I intended to get a consensus on a goal to get this code re-written properly and done once and for all.
As I see this crowd will not let it happen.
Good Luck
I will try with the CA EC and the Ca buildings and standards.