What is the NEC code for stapling Romex?

Author: Anna Kovacek  |  Last update: Tuesday, November 11, 2025

Romex Wiring Support, NEC 336-18: Stapled, in a manner that does not damagethe cable, within 12" of electric boxes; every 4-1/2 ft. intervals, and clamped to box. Cables run through holes in studs, rafters of floor joists are considered supported at those points.

What are the rules for stapling Romex?

Nonmetallic-sheathed cable shall be supported and secured by staples, cable ties listed and identified for securement and support, or straps, hangers, or similar fittings designed and installed so as not to damage the cable, at intervals not exceeding 1.4 m (4 ½ ft) and within 300 mm (12 in.)

What is the NEC code for stapling wires?

Requirements for Securing and Supporting NM Cable (NEC 334.30) The NEC requires installers to secure and support NM cable adequately to prevent sagging and damage.

Does the NEC permit two wire Romex stapled on edge?

Flat cables shall not be stapled on edge. Sections of cable protected from physical damage by raceway shall not be required to be secured within the raceway.

What is the code for strapping Romex?

Article 334.30 specifies that cables should be supported at intervals not exceeding 4 1/2 feet and secured within 12 inches of every cable entry into enclosures like outlet or junction boxes. Ensure the cable length between the cable entry and its nearest support does not exceed 18 inches.

ROMEX Cable Support Requirements (2024)

What is the code for stapling Romex to studs?

Romex Wiring Support, NEC 336-18: Stapled, in a manner that does not damagethe cable, within 12" of electric boxes; every 4-1/2 ft. intervals, and clamped to box. Cables run through holes in studs, rafters of floor joists are considered supported at those points.

How close to staple romex to box?

It's always best to follow the 1 1/4 inch rule of thumb when installing electrical cable. Spacing can either make or break a successful electrical installation. 2) Non metallic sheathed cables should be secured within 12 inches of a box (junction box) and every 4 1/2 feet.

Can you staple Romex on top of each other?

You can staple as many conductors as the Box of Staples says.

Is it against code to splice Romex?

By code, you must leave access to any splice anywhere. (The only exception is an irreversible crimp on a service entrance cable — a special case requiring an expensive crimping tool.) Splices in attics and crawlspaces are considered accessible as long as there is a hatchway into the space.

Are insulated staples required for Romex?

It's not an NEC requirement but if you feel more comfortable using insulated staples, especially if you have a helper "slamming home" the staples, go ahead and use them. Will probably save some instances of arc-fault problems.

Where is Romex not allowed?

Noting that Romex is the name of a popular brand of Non Metallic cable, of the type specified in the NEC (US National Electrical Code) as type NM. (Like “Kleenex” is a brand of facial tissue.) Romex is not permitted anywhere that it is exposed to risk of damage, to water (dampness), and/or to sunlight.

What is the NEC code 210.11 C?

210.11(C) Dwelling Units. 210.11(C)(3) Bathroom Branch Circuits. In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section, at least one 120-volt, 20-ampere branch circuit shall be provided to supply the bathroom(s) receptacle outlet(s). Such circuits shall have no other outlets.

What is the code for stapled wire?

Attaching Cables to Studding

In the codebook, section 334.30 states that flat cables must be stapled on the flat side of the cable, not on the edge. 2 This provides a tight wire connection to the stud and prevents any damage to the wire sheathing.

What is the NEC code 336?

E 336.01 Definition. A non-metallic sheathed cable is an assembly of 2 or more insulated conductors having an outer sheath of moisture- resistant, flame-retardant, non-metallic material.

What size staple do I need for 12 2 Romex?

1/2 in. Steel Staples for 14/2, 12/2 and 10/2 Non-Metallic Cable (500-Pack)

How many Romex wires can be stapled together?

The NEC says that you may not staple a cable any closer than 1–1/4″ to the wall surface. Good practice says that you do not stack more than 2 cables on top of each other. You could run two stacked pairs on a 2x4 stud and be legal - so that would be 4 cables.

What is the NEC code for wire connectors?

Effective January 1, 2023, National Electrical Code® (NEC®) 230.46 requires wire connectors used for splicing or tapping conductors on the line side of service equipment to be Certified (Listed) as suitable for line side use.

What is the NEC Code 334.40 B?

334.40(B) Devices of Insulating Material.

Switch, outlet, and tap devices of insulating material shall be permitted to be used without boxes in exposed cable wiring and for rewiring in existing buildings where the cable is concealed and fished.

What is the NEC code for Romex staples?

334.40 is where we find the rules for securing and supporting romex. There is no mention in the NEC as to how many cables under a staple. However, many staples are listed to hold two cables or less, which would make securing three cables under those staples a 110.3(B) violation.

How many feet does Romex need to be stapled?

One of the requirements for permanent wiring, and thus for temporary wiring, was the need for adequate support. Article 336-18 stated that cable must be secured in place at intervals not exceeding 4.5 feet (1.37 m) and within 12 inches (305 mm) from every cabinet, box, or fitting.

Can you run Romex on top of joists?

Yes, you can run Romex wire between joists in certain situations, but it must be done in compliance with electrical codes and safety standards.

What is the NEC code for junction boxes?

NEC 314.29 Junction Boxes for Non-Hazardous Location

The regulations outlined in the NEC 314.29 emphasize that the junction boxes must be easily reachable. This is to ensure easy access during repair, maintenance, or inspection.

What is article 300.4 of the NEC code?

Where subject to physical damage, conductors, raceways, and cables shall be protected. Informational Note: Minor damage to a raceway, cable armor, or cable insulation does not necessarily violate the integrity of either the contined conductors or the conductors' insulation.

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