Nec 334.10

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megawatt3

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Looking for opinions re: the use of NM cable in unfinshed attached and detached garages in one and two family dwellings. I think the garages should be considered part of the dwelling therefore not requiring the cable to be concealed behind a barrier that has a 15 minute finish rating. I recently received a commentary from the NJ DCA stating the opposite. Need more opinions and input before I reverse my thinking.
Thank you in advance.
 
I have asked this very question on this Forum and also presented the issue at my local IAEI meeting. It was the consensus of the surrounding jurisdictions here in SW Florida that detached structures on residential properties and that serve, as an ancillary structure would not have to meet the 15-minute finish concealment. If the structure were to serve a commercial use, even though on a residential property, the requirement would go into effect.

I personally feel a detached structure is an "other structure", but I also feel the intent of the code does not consider this specific scenario. There does not seem to be a logical reason why the cables installation can be treated the same as if it were in a dwelling unless you feel there is greater fire hazards associated with detach structures.
 
By the way, it doesn't matter what construction type the structure or building is as long as it is permitted to be of type III, IV, and V. It is unlikely that a residential garage would be other than these types. Also be aware that NFPA construction types in Standard 220 are not exactly comparable with ICC Chapter 6.
 
Thank you for the feedback..... I believe the NJ DCA went off half cocked with defining a garage as not part of the dwelling unit. The definition of dwelling unit does not include garage and that I believe this is what the hang-up is. As in many cases it will be a AHJ decision even thought the NJ DCA regulates inspectors. This has blindsided many inspectors and contractors.
 
What does the construction type have to do with 334.12(A)(2)? Construction type satisfies restriction 334.12(A)(1), but you have to keep going down the prohibited list.

Many on this forum say you can't use 310.15(B)(6) to a detached residential garage because its not a dwelling. I'd like it to be considered a dwelling so both rules could be used (310.15(B)(6) and no 15 minure fire barrier). Some places consider residential accessory buildings a dwelling as far as wiring methods go. But I don't see that in the code.

It also seems silly to require this at a detached garage. What garage should have the fire barrier, one attached to where people live and sleep, or the detached one that only has cars but no people?
 
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