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_firstname_@lr_dot_los-gatos_dot_ca.us
 
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Default Building code: Electrical boxes back-to-back, how many

Two questions about electrical and building codes:

(1) Can you mount two electrical boxes back-to-back? In this example,
I have a 2x4 stud wall, and right next to a doorway there have to be
lightswitches on either side of the wall. Due to space constraints,
I'll need to put the two boxes in the same location, on either side of
the wall. Using metal boxes, two regular-size boxes fit snugly into a
2x4 wall cavity (their backs nearly touch, and the grounding screws on
the back of one touches the other). All other options are quite
distasteful: Move one set of light switches up or down by 6", or move
them about 2' away from the doorway.

(2) Is there a limit to the maximum number of electrical boxes that
can be in a wall? In this case, we have a 32" wide wall stub that has
to contain a total of four electrical boxes (110V outlet, 240V outlet,
TV/network outlet, and light switches).

In either case, we are talking about standard wooden 2x4 construction
with 1/2" drywall. The walls do not need to be fire-rated. No studs
need to be but for these boxes, and all boxes are metal boxes (I don't
like plastic boxes).

If it matters: We are talking about the 1997 UBC and the 1999 NEC
here; I have read through all of the NEC, and found no mention of
either question. I don't have a copy of the UBC handy, but a web
search found no discussion of either topic.

Discussion and enlightenment would be appreciated.

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Ralph Becker-Szendy _firstname_@lr _dot_ los-gatos _dot_ ca.us