Old and unused power outlet

Question

I have this old and unused hole that I believe was for an outlet or a light switch (bought a house with this capped with plastic). I also have a few old phone Jacks. I plan on removing the phone Jacks and patching the drywall in that hole. I thought of doing the same for this outlet but I remember reading somewhere that doing so would be against code. I can't seem to find that information this time around.

https://imgur.com/gallery/faBYUZG
Thanks everyone! I'm just going to cover it up. It's not worth the effort for me to trace out the wires and try to disconnect them. Appreciate everyone's feedback
Would patching the drywall here be an option? Or is covering it with a removable plastic cover the only option?

Ecnerwal · Accepted Answer

That is a junction box, and must remain accessible (plastic or metal cover, cover can be painted.)
NEC 314.29
If the wiring is completely removed, you can remove the junction box, but usually the wiring is serving some purpose and that is not practical.

WmW · Answer

This answer is similar to previous. If the wires in the box are "live" (still energized), they must remain accessible. If you can conclusively (professionally) determine that the wires are "dead" (best if the supply end is disconnected and removed from the next, upstream access point (another outlet box, or electrical panel), you can abandon the wiring in place.

Answered by WmW on March 5, 2021

Old and unused power outlet

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