I wasn't saying I agreed with 240.24(D), that section should be deleted IMO but as it is it says clothes closets are a no go.
Do we have any specific definition for clothes closet to apply here? I would think it could be ok if as mentioned were behind the door when opened, and no storage is within close proximity. All 240.24(D) says "in the vicinity of easily ignitable material" and then the only example given is clothes closets, leaving many to automatically disqualify anything that might be considered a clothes closet, yet they might overlook other easily ignitable material.
As mentioned if sparks are expected to shower from these things then they probably should be in fire resistant finished areas only including non combustible flooring finishes, then the next question like we already have now would be - for what distance if there is no wall or other separation from easily ignitable material?
How many commercial spaces have mechanical/electrical rooms that almost always become a janitor closet and have easily ignitable items in them? Even ones that still leave 110.26 clearances around the electrical equipment? How many dwelling unit garages have panels in them as well as easily ignitable materials?