It helps to make the distinction between an actual interpretation (one based on an existing article, section, etc.) and a 'shirt-pocket rule' that has no code backing whatsoever. There's a huge chasm between an inspector saying, "This is what the Code says, and this is the way I interpret it" and "This is what I require because it's always been done this way."
Throughout the industry, there's people who encounter supposed 'Codes' that simply do not exist. Maximum length for conduit runs, splices in panels, taping wire nuts, MWBC's being disallowed, number of receptacles on a dwelling circuit, wrapping devices with tape, ground rods at light poles, color codes......... all straight out of the Urban Legend Electrical Code. Most are from job specs and not AHJ-adopted Codes, some from misinformation, a few put down roots from those who simply do not stay up-to-date with Code changes, others are passed down as folklore from The Elders to the cubbies. And the vast majority of them owe their livelihood because either we don't care to take the time and actually look it up to find out the truth, or simply caving in to the inspector based on economic reasons.
