RSJB18 posted:If you don't want to use them (the lights) at all you can cover the boxes with a blank plate and put your scenic backdrops over them. The backdrops are not considered a permanent finish so no code violation.
Thanks for the clarification!
Would that be true for a backdrop that is glued/pasted to the wall? Seems like that might be considered 'wallpaper' to some home inspectors? I can understand the acceptability if the backdrop is free-standing, or mounted on a separate substructure....which would, indeed, be considered not a permanent wall covering. Also, the blank box covers I'm aware of are hardly flush with the drywall surface (at least the cover in the bathroom I mentioned above!), so there would be a 'cover-lump' in the backdrop, I suppose?
I know this is all probably moot, anyway. As is so often mentioned in those home improvement episodes, the D.I.Y. guy/gal is going to do their electrical work with or without code guidance...as your 25+ years of discoveries have verified!! It's all about the bite down the road....if it ever happens...fire, shock, pre-sale/closure home inspections, etc., etc..
