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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:

hack

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.

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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.

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    Got it, yeah I had a feeling my hack was not even close to kosher... Where can I read up on these codes? Feb 12, 2017 at 7:24
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    NFPA now gives free access to the National Electrical Code, provided you create an account and agree to the terms of use. Other than that, you'd have to buy, rent, or borrow a copy.
    – Tester101
    Feb 12, 2017 at 16:14
  • @Tester101 thanks, I'll definitely look into that Feb 12, 2017 at 20:39

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