Assume a pull down staircase in garage and the space above IS being used for storage.

Will a keyless suffice for the required lighting outlet or must it be controlled by a separate wall switch?

I feel a "pull-chain" lamp holder would suffice as it would be considered a lighting outlet containing a switch. A typical keyless would require an external wall switch at the point of entry.

I should have specified pull chain. Thanks, that was what I meant.

I agree, a pull chain is ok as the code section states that:

I agree.

OK now since we all agree here is part II of the question:

how far away from the opening is the keyless with the pullchain allowed to be?

I think that this will get it. What do you think?

The operative question;
How long can the string be?
Can they put the light in the middle of the attic and run the string through eyes to the scuttle hole? (I have actually seen this done)

Good point.

I don't really know if there is a correct answer, yet I am searching for one.

I recently tagged a contractor (good contractor, good work, and IAEI member) and told him there had to be a switch. Sometimes the keyless with pullchain can be a ways away from the point of entry. Sometimes the roof space goes way up. So, what is the general consensus? 3' of "reach" upon entering the scuttle hole?

Sound reasonable?

First I think we need to agree on how far in = usual point of entry.

Then we need to talk about whether the 'control' can be a string or not.

So we actually have two things on the table here.
What does everyone think?

If you start setting measurements that aren't in the code you create county ammendment's(according to my boss)I've tried this before and got shot down. It says the point of control shall be at the usual point of entry,so if you are standing on the stairs or ladder (stairs required for heating units, art 110.33(b))you should be able to reach either the string or the switch.This will be a judgement call by the inspector. We do accept the pull chain string as a controller.