Interesting Question.........

Is it legal to hard wire a device that came with a plug?

 

Usually, doing so would violate the manufacturer's instructions, so no, it is not legal to do so.
If you want to do this, contact the manufacturer, and see if it would be a problem with them. (PS. get it in writing)

Rick Miell

 

Thanks, however is it okay by code?

 

Taking a plug off an item in most cases violates its UL listing which is required by code on manufactured part installed in a system. You would have to check the UL listing for the device and see if it is allowable if it is not then you could still do it if you had an UL inspector check it afterwards. Or in some counties the electrical inspector can make the call although if he does insurances might give you a hassle if anything goes wrong
Most major appliances (stoves, dryers etc) are manufactured and listed to be plugged in or hardwired. so it may be legal under specific conditions

 

Gard-- Another good point, thank you!

 

Here is the scenario: Hard wire a garage door opener with a 12/3 extension cord (strand wire) cut about 6 feet, hard wired on one end (garage door opener) and plug on other, plugged into a receptacle in the ceiling?

 

My conception of "hard-wired" is a connection with the branch-circuit conductors terminating at an internal connection point on or inside the load being connected.

 

Pattbaa is right on the term hard wired. Many models of garage door openers are designed for plug and play but are also allowed to be hard wired by the specifications the manufacturers had them rated at. You can check with UL on the net and see what they have your make and model rated for.

 

You would need to have a switch on it (or a recpt.)as all motors need to have a disconnect