Surface Wiring, ok to do

Jul 28, 2004 2 Replies

G > I am having trouble deciding if i should pursue installing a light G > fixture+its light switch in the living room using surface wiring. Problem G > is that i don't know if its ok to do that in Waltham, Massachussetts (zip G > 02453) . Am i going to run in major trouble with the codes if i do or is G > it completly illegal to have surface wiring in Mass anyways? The G > materials will be from wiremold: G > G >

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Probably OK, though you might want to check with the City rather than the Commonwealth. Is there a webpage for Waltham? Else call the appopriate City department, perhaps from the office phone to maintain some anonymity.



Another option would be wireless control such as X-10 type of devices at

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or Radio Shack. Battery-operated switch is stuck to the wall, receiver plugs into an outlet and the light fixture into the receiver (possibly use a swag lamp type of arrangement).


- ¯ barry.martinþATþthesafebbs.zeppole.com ®



  • You drink too much coffee when your eyes stay open when you sneeze.

That stuff contains small diameter EMT under the square painted metal cover. (probably about 3/8" ID.) So it should be OK wherever you're allowed to use EMT, as long as you don't exceed 40% conductor fill. But especially since 3/8" is not a normal conduit trade size, you better ask the city.

Best regards, Bob

One electrician suggested that. Another showed that fishing wires in walls is not that difficult.

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