Light Switch

Originally Posted By: roconnor
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.



In my jurisdiction I require sealed electrical plans for new homes or expansions/remodels that cost over $20,000 … there is some basis in state law for that (yes, I also wear an AHJ hat as a Chief Building Inspector in addition to my PE and HI hats … shhhhhhhh).


For smaller jobs/expansions it doesn't make sense to require electrical plans because the designer always wings it, and then it's never completely right without repeated changes and as-builts ... which just drives me nuts ... NVTS ... nuts ... ![icon_wink.gif](upload://ssT9V5t45yjlgXqiFRXL04eXtqw.gif)

I think Jack was really talking about the legal authority of the AHJ to initially interpret the code (IRC CH-1 and NEC 80.13 & 90.4). I would actually interpret IRC R303.4 to require a light switch on the inside within easy reach of an exterior door. IMO the intent of that code section is that a light be operable from either the top or bottom of any steps ... including exterior steps, but it must be inside. If the switch for the front steps was in the basement it would get written up. Sure, they could appeal to the state ... but that would be a story to tell my grandkids if they even considered it ...

Thats really a topic for the ICC boards, but figured I would share my thoughts anyway ... ![icon_wink.gif](upload://ssT9V5t45yjlgXqiFRXL04eXtqw.gif)


--
Robert O'Connor, PE
Eagle Engineering ?
Eagle Eye Inspections ?
NACHI Education Committee

I am absolutely amazed sometimes by how much thought goes into doing things wrong