Type NM Cable in Detached Garage??

[czars]

Is it permissible to wire the detached garage of a single family dwelling with Type NM cable (ref 334.10)?

 

[mdshunk]

Yes, but it can't be exposed.

 

[peter d]

By the exact letter of the NEC, no, you would have to conceal it with a 15 minute rated finish or use another wiring method like MC cable or EMT. Also, MA has amended this code to allow NM to be used.

Traditionally NM cable is allowed hereby inspectors for this application even though it's an NEC violation.

 

[wbalsam1]

I agree. It's a violation if the garage is detached.

 

[stickboy1375]

If its close enough, nail a 2x4 across the house and garage, now its attached, and your good to go... :grin:

 

[iaov]

I agree. It's a violation if the garage is detached.

We run NM in garages all the time here. What is the code reference?

 

[wbalsam1]

334.10(3) covers detached garages.

 

[stickboy1375]

We run NM in garages all the time here. What is the code reference?

According to the NEC, a detatched garage is not a dwelling unit, therefore, NM is not allowed, 334.10 read #1 and the definition of a dwelling unit, then read #3... I know its a real shocker...

 

[ultramegabob]

is it attached if you string up a clothes line?

 

[iaov]

334.10(3) covers detached garages.

Thank you.:smile:

 

[wbalsam1]

is it attached if you string up a clothes line?

Each end of the clothes line is attached to each building separately and the clothes line is one piece, but somehow, as if by magic, the buildings are not attached.

 

[four]

Ground size

Ground size

J-Box in Hot tub says Equipment ground needs to be the same size as hots. I dont have any more info (manual). Does this mean it has to be same size all the way to main panel or just to Spa disconnect???? 6-3 Romex ground is smaller.

 

[stickboy1375]

J-Box in Hot tub says Equipment ground needs to be the same size as hots.

They need to stop that....

 

[peter d]

They need to stop that....

Sounds like a familiar topic.

The real question is if that manufacturers instruction is part of the listing and labeling.

 

[stickboy1375]

Sounds like a familiar topic.

The real question is if that manufacturers instruction is part of the listing and labeling.

I think its a typo.... :grin:

 

[BAHTAH]

Detached Garage Wiring Methods

Detached Garage Wiring Methods

I agree. It's a violation if the garage is detached.

334.10 (3) allows the use of romex in a Type V structure with the exceptions listed in 334.12. Item (1) of 334.12 allows for the Type V structure to be applied and I see nothing in the balance of 334.12 that would keep you from using romex in a detached residential garage. Type V consturction is basic stick construction with a 1 hour rating. If the garage interior is covered with drywall there should be no problem. I also think there are Type V structures that are unprotected wood frame construction in which case the areas where the romex was installed would need at least a covering with a 15-min fire rating per 334.10(3).

 

[wbalsam1]

334.10 (3) allows the use of romex in a Type V structure with the exceptions listed in 334.12. Item (1) of 334.12 allows for the Type V structure to be applied and I see nothing in the balance of 334.12 that would keep you from using romex in a detached residential garage. Type V consturction is basic stick construction with a 1 hour rating. If the garage interior is covered with drywall there should be no problem. I also think there are Type V structures that are unprotected wood frame construction in which case the areas where the romex was installed would need at least a covering with a 15-min fire rating per 334.10(3).

I'm not saying that "Romex" can't be used in a detached garage. Only that it has to be covered with material having a 15-minute FRR. An attached garage is not held to the same provision. :smile:

 

[BAHTAH]

Detached Garage vs Attached Garage

Detached Garage vs Attached Garage

I must be getting confused by the issue of detached vs attached. IMO the Type V building is the same construction as a typical dwelling with a 1 hr fire rating. If a garage is attached, there is no requirement for the garage to have interior fire protection except on the walls that ajoin the actual dwelling. Romex could not be run exposed in the portion of the garage where the walls are not covered just like romex cannot be run exposed in the detached Type V building without a wall covering. I think some have answered Romex cannot be used if the garage is detached but the only difference I can see is that in the detached garage a 15min fire rating would be the minimum covering. Basically I can see no real difference between attached and detached or how the romex is protected.

 

[stickboy1375]

Basically I can see no real difference between attached and detached or how the romex is protected.

I can, I dont have to protect it when installed in an attached garage... You might have other opinions on the subject where you live, but out here, no protection is required.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

Grant-- I think if the garage is attached to the dwelling unit then it is considered the same type structure or at least it is viewed the same as a dwelling. You make a good point, however I don't know if the attached garage is classified the same as a dwelling.