When may a unit of measurement, such as in. or ft, be abbreviated?

Do not abbreviate a unit of measurement unless it is used in conjunction with a number:

The measurements in the schematic diagram are given in 

meters and feet. (not m and ft)
but 
The building that we're planning to use for storing supplies is 

24 ft by 40 ft. 
The diameter of the opening is 3 cm.