nm cable in unfinished garages

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linwue

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Electrician
The question I have is can you use nm(romex) in unfinished garage's of a multi-family dwelling complex,2x4 wood construction with nothing on the walls? If not,would i have to use mc cable or something of that nature.
 
linwue said:
The question I have is can you use nm(romex) in unfinished garage's of a multi-family dwelling complex,2x4 wood construction with nothing on the walls? If not,would i have to use mc cable or something of that nature.
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I would say that is up to your local jurisdiction.
Some say it's exposed to physical damage. Others say if it's above 8' you are ok!

I prefer to just use MC if it will remain un-protected.
 
Exposed NM cable must always be protected from physical damage in my jurisdiction. This is very difficult to accomplish in unfinished buildings thus I would strongly suggest an alternative wiring method...
 
linwue said:
The question I have is can you use nm(romex) in unfinished garage's of a multi-family dwelling complex,2x4 wood construction with nothing on the walls? If not,would i have to use mc cable or something of that nature.
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My take on it these days is that it is not allowed in a detached garage {not a dwelling unit, 334.10(3)} without a 15-minute covering.

If attached, a bit more of a subjective judgement call. "...Protected from physical damage when necessary..." 336.15(B)
 
Do enough to move on!

Do enough to move on!

Here in gainesville,fl., our inspector would require you to protect the nm cable in conduit up to 8', but if your not worried about an inspection, i personally would not protect it, but it is always up to your ahj!
 
My opinion is that Volta gave you the correct "Code" answer, although by practice NM without covering has been accepted here in detached residential garages. I think there is an '11 Code change to permit same.
That said, locally there is some variation as to what is allowed, but for the most part, the NM must follow the building surface to a height of 8 ft or be protected by a running board.
 
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