commercial garages

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mbergheger

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I just received an email in regards to commercial garages and the code. I am in the process of designing a residential garage, the code says nothing about residential garages being hazardous locations. But the owner restores automobiles for a hobby, this include but is not limited to the use of welders, transfer of fuel, repair work, etc. So would you classify this as a commercial garage or would it still be a residential garage because it is at a residence. The owner has also talked about putting in a grease pit. So my question is where would you classify this garage. Right not I am going both ways but leaning more towards to commercial side mainly for safety reasons if something would happen.

thanks in advance
Matthew
 
Re: commercial garages

Look at 511.1 (2002 version). There is nothing in the scope of that article that says the person must charge a fee for doing the work within the garage. Look also at the title of 511: ?Commercial Garages, Repair and Storage.? There are three things in that title, not just one. The article applies to commercial garages. The article applies to repair locations. The article applies to storage locations.

I think you are leaning the right way.
 
Re: commercial garages

I wouldn't get into the business of classifying locations. That really should be handled by some other authoritive body, like the building deparetment, fire marshall, or insurance agent.

I have never seen a residential garage given a classification, even those with all the components and conditions you list above.
 
Re: commercial garages

All "commercial garages" are "garages;" but not all "garages" are "commercial garages."

I said that because "garage" is a defined term in Article 100, but "commercial garages" are not defined. They are described in the scope of Art 511 and that description is so broad that it could apply to residential garages also. This is important.

Electrical Area Classifications are then determined by specific "use" of the garage. See 511.3. Most residential garages would fall under 511.3(A). [NOTE: motor oil is not a flammable material] Otherwise you have to classify the garage as required in 511.3(B). I don't necessarily like the way these rules are written and in some cases I don't think they make a great deal of sense; but that is the way you arrive at proper area classification.
 
Re: commercial garages

Knowing that the owner may use the garage for commercial purposes would alert me to the idea of installing outlets at the 4' height. I would also install a future circuit for a vent fan.
My garage is residential. I transfer fuel from the gas can to the lawn mower. I do it outside. I have also welded in my garage-both arc and oxy-acetylene. I also did an oil change but don't have a pit.
All my outlets are 4' high, including the ones I installed. (I don't have to bend over to plug/unplug :D )

COntact the AHJ and ask their opinion.
Is the garage attached?
 
Re: commercial garages

If you keep all the electrical above 18" by feeding down from above, then you won't have to worry about classified or not.

Steve
 
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