My question is, is this a possible/valid way to add a "hidden" outlet for outside IP camera?

Question

So I basically wanted to do what the OP wanted to do here...

However, I wasn't sure if one needed to actually cut thru the siding and add a new gang box + receptacle/outlet in order to plug in the IPcam's wallwart power adapter... or if my wiring/connections are right... I think they are...

So I did this:

I spliced together the cables coming from the switch, the exterior lamp's cables (not pictured), and the cables that feed the outlet. I put those twisting plastic wire nuts on all connections, and put the lamp back on. I wanted to avoid drilling/cutting on the hardiplank siding cuz it's a pain (super hard) and kinda want the power adapter to be hidden as it's def not for outdoor use...

My question is, is this a possible/valid way to do it? I nailed the outlet to a stud on the right (without a plastic gangbox) and just pulled the 5V DC cable to thru a small opening on the lamp's housing/base.

Also could an outlet being hidden like that be a code violation? fire hazard? Where can find out about whether this is ok code-wise in my area? I'm in Metro-Atlanta, GA.

Answer 1

Generally "not valid" (under NEC rules) since you are combining low voltage and high voltage in a box without a barrier separating them. That is, it's a clear code violation.

I nailed the outlet to a stud on the right (without a plastic gangbox)

That sounds rather like an additional code violation.

48V POE (af/at) or 24V passive POE (Power Over Ethernet) are generally much better ways to handle powering cameras, since there is no need to make horrible kludges to get a power adapter anywhere near the camera.