Chapter 3 Building Planning
Section R301 Design Criteria
R301.1 Application.
Buildings and structures, and parts thereof, shall be constructed to safely support all loads, including dead loads, live loads, roof loads, flood loads, snow loads, wind loads and seismic loads as prescribed by this code. The construction of buildings and structures in accordance with the provisions of this code shall result in a system that provides a complete load path that meets the requirements for the transfer of loads from their point of origin through the load-resisting elements to the foundation. Buildings and structures constructed as prescribed by this code are deemed to comply with the requirements of this section.
R301.1.1 Alternative provisions.
As an alternative to the requirements in Section R301.1, the following standards are permitted subject to the limitations of this code and the limitations therein. Where engineered design is used in conjunction with these standards, the design shall comply with the International Building Code.
- 1.
- 2.
- 3.
- 4.
R301.1.2 Construction systems.
The requirements of this code are based on platform and balloon-frame construction for light-frame buildings. The requirements for concrete and masonry buildings are based on a balloon framing system. Other framing systems must have equivalent detailing to ensure force transfer, continuity and compatible deformations.
R301.1.3 Engineered design.
Where a building of otherwise conventional construction contains structural elements exceeding the limits of Section R301 or otherwise not conforming to this code, these elements shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice. The extent of such design need only demonstrate compliance of nonconventional elements with other applicable provisions and shall be compatible with the performance of the conventional framed system. Engineered design in accordance with the International Building Code is permitted for buildings and structures, and parts thereof, included in the scope of this code.
R301.2 Climatic and geographic design criteria.
Buildings shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of this code as limited by the provisions of this section. Additional criteria shall be established by the local jurisdiction and set forth in Table R301.2.
GROUND SNOW LOADo | WIND DESIGN | SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORYf | SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM | ICE BARRIER UNDERLAYMENT REQUIREDh | FLOOD HAZARDSg | AIR FREEZING INDEXi | MEAN ANNUAL TEMPj | |||||
Speedd (mph) | Topographic effectsk | Special wind regionl | Windborne debris zonem | Weatheringa | Frost line depthb | Termitec | ||||||
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
MANUAL J DESIGN CRITERIAn | ||||||||||||
Elevation | Altitude correction factore | Coincident wet bulb | Indoor winter design relative humidity | Indoor winter design dry-bulb temperature | Outdoor winter design dry-bulb temperature | Heating temperature difference | ||||||
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
Latitude | Daily range | Summer design gains | Indoor summer design relative humidity | Indoor summer design dry-bulb temperature | Outdoor summer design dry-bulb temperature | Cooling temperature difference | ||||||
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||
For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
- a.
Where weathering requires a higher strength concrete or grade of masonry than necessary to satisfy the structural requirements of this code, the frost line depth strength required for weathering shall govern. The weathering column shall be filled in with the weathering index, “negligible,” “moderate” or “severe” for concrete as determined from Figure R301.2(1). The grade of masonry units shall be determined from ASTM C34, ASTM C55, ASTM C62, ASTM C73, ASTM C90, ASTM C129, ASTM C145, ASTM C216 or ASTM C652.
- b.
- c.
The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table to indicate the need for protection depending on whether there has been a history of local subterranean termite damage.
- d.
- e.
- f.
- g.
The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with: the date of the jurisdiction’s entry into the National Flood Insurance Program (date of adoption of the first code or ordinance for management of flood hazard areas); and the title and date of the currently effective Flood Insurance Study or other flood hazard study and maps adopted by the authority having jurisdiction, as amended.
- h.
In accordance with Sections R905.1.2, R905.4.3.1, R905.5.3.1, R905.6.3.1, R905.7.3.1 and R905.8.3.1, where there has been a history of local damage from the effects of ice damming, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with “YES.” Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with “NO.”
- i.
- j.
The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the mean annual temperature from the National Climatic Data Center data table “Air Freezing Index-USA Method (Base 32°F).”
- k.
In accordance with Section R301.2.1.5, where there is local historical data documenting structural damage to buildings due to topographic wind speed-up effects, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with “YES.” Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall indicate “NO” in this part of the table.
- l.
- m.
- n.
- o.
- a.
Alaska and Hawaii are classified as severe and negligible, respectively.
- b.
Lines defining areas are approximate only. Local conditions may be more or less severe than indicated by region classification. A severe classification is where weather conditions result in significant snowfall combined with extended periods during which there is little or no natural thawing, causing deicing salts to be used extensively.
Notes:
- 1.
Values are 3-second gust wind speeds in miles per hour (m/s) at 33 feet (10 m) above ground for Exposure Category C.
- 2.
Linear interpolation is permitted between contours. Point values are provided to aid with interpolation.
- 3.
Islands, coastal areas and land boundaries outside the last contour shall use the last wind speed contour.
- 4.
Location-specific basic wind speeds shall be permitted to be determined using the ASCE Wind Design Geodatabase.
- 5.
Wind speeds for Hawaii, US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico shall be determined from the ASCE Wind Design Geodatabase.
- 6.
Mountainous terrain, gorges, ocean promontories and special wind regions shall be examined for unusual wind conditions. Site specific values for selected special wind regions shall be permitted to be determined using the ASCE Wind Design Geodatabase.
- 7.
Wind speeds correspond to approximately a 7 percent probability of exceedance in 50 years (Annual Exceedance Probability = 0.00143, MRI = 700 years).
- 8.
For SI:1 foot = 34.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mile = 1.61 km.
Notes:
- 1.
- 2.
Lines shown on the figure are contours separated by a constant ratio 1.18 with values of 10, 12, 14, 16, 19, 23, 27, 32, 38, 44, 52, 62, 73, 86, 101, 119 and 140 psf.
- 3.
Values denoted with a “+” symbol indicate design ground snow loads at state capitals or other high-population locations.
- 4.
Areas shown in gray represent areas with ground snow loads exceeding 140 psf. Ground snow load values for these locations can be determined from the Geodatabase.
R301.2.1 Wind design criteria.
Buildings and portions thereof shall be constructed in accordance with the wind provisions of this code using the ultimate design wind speed in Table R301.2 as determined from Figure R301.2(2). The structural provisions of this code for wind loads are not permitted where wind design is required as specified in Section R301.2.1.1. Where different construction methods and structural materials are used for various portions of a building, the applicable requirements of this section for each portion shall apply. Where not otherwise specified, the wind loads listed in Table R301.2.1(1) adjusted for height and exposure using Table R301.2.1(2) shall be used to determine design load performance requirements for wall coverings, curtain walls, roof coverings, exterior windows, skylights, garage doors and exterior doors. Asphalt shingles shall be designed for wind speeds in accordance with Section R905.2.4. Metal roof shingles shall be designed for wind speeds in accordance with Section R905.4.4. A continuous load path shall be provided to transmit the applicable uplift forces in Section R802.11 from the roof assembly to the foundation. Where ultimate design wind speeds in Figure R301.2(2) are less than the lowest wind speed indicated in the prescriptive provisions of this code, the lowest wind speed indicated in the prescriptive provisions of this code shall be used.
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 degree = 0.0175 rad.
Note: a = 4 feet in all cases.
ZONE | EFFECTIVE WIND AREAS (square feet) | ULTIMATE DESIGN WIND SPEED, Vult | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
90.0 | 95.0 | 100.0 | 105.0 | 110.0 | 115.0 | 120.0 | 130.0 | 140.0 | 150.0 | 160.0 | 170.0 | 180.0 | ||||||||||||||||
Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | Pos | Neg | |||
Gable roof 0 to 7 degrees | 1, 1’ | 10 | 3.6 | -13.9 | 4.0 | -15.5 | 4.4 | -17.2 | 4.8 | -19.0 | 5.3 | -20.8 | 5.8 | -22.7 | 6.3 | -24.8 | 7.4 | -29.1 | 8.6 | -33.7 | 9.9 | -38.7 | 11.2 | -44.0 | 12.7 | -49.7 | 14.2 | -55.7 |
1, 1’ | 20 | 3.3 | -12.4 | 3.7 | -13.8 | 4.1 | -15.3 | 4.5 | -16.8 | 5.0 | -18.5 | 5.4 | -20.2 | 5.9 | -22.0 | 7.0 | -25.8 | 8.1 | -29.9 | 9.3 | -34.4 | 10.5 | -39.1 | 11.9 | -44.1 | 13.3 | -49.5 | |
1, 1’ | 50 | 3.0 | -10.3 | 3.4 | -11.5 | 3.8 | -12.7 | 4.1 | -14.0 | 4.5 | -15.4 | 5.0 | -16.8 | 5.4 | -18.3 | 6.3 | -21.5 | 7.4 | -24.9 | 8.4 | -28.6 | 9.6 | -32.5 | 10.8 | -36.7 | 12.2 | -41.2 | |
1, 1’ | 100 | 2.8 | -8.7 | 3.1 | -9.7 | 3.5 | -10.8 | 3.8 | -11.9 | 4.2 | -13.1 | 4.6 | -14.3 | 5.0 | -15.5 | 5.9 | -18.2 | 6.8 | -21.2 | 7.8 | -24.3 | 8.9 | -27.6 | 10.0 | -31.2 | 11.3 | -35.0 | |
2 | 10 | 3.6 | -18.4 | 4.0 | -20.5 | 4.4 | -22.7 | 4.8 | -25.0 | 5.3 | -27.4 | 5.8 | -30.0 | 6.3 | -32.7 | 7.4 | -38.3 | 8.6 | -44.5 | 9.9 | -51.0 | 11.2 | -58.1 | 12.7 | -65.6 | 14.2 | -73.5 | |
2 | 20 | 3.3 | -16.4 | 3.7 | -18.2 | 4.1 | -20.2 | 4.5 | -22.3 | 5.0 | -24.5 | 5.4 | -26.7 | 5.9 | -29.1 | 7.0 | -34.2 | 8.1 | -39.6 | 9.3 | -45.5 | 10.5 | -51.8 | 11.9 | -58.4 | 13.3 | -65.5 | |
2 | 50 | 3.0 | -13.7 | 3.4 | -15.3 | 3.8 | -16.9 | 4.1 | -18.7 | 4.5 | -20.5 | 5.0 | -22.4 | 5.4 | -24.4 | 6.3 | -28.6 | 7.4 | -33.2 | 8.4 | -38.1 | 9.6 | -43.3 | 10.8 | -48.9 | 12.2 | -54.8 | |
2 | 100 | 2.8 | -11.7 | 3.1 | -13.0 | 3.5 | -14.5 | 3.8 | -15.9 | 4.2 | -17.5 | 4.6 | -19.1 | 5.0 | -20.8 | 5.9 | -24.4 | 6.8 | -28.3 | 7.8 | -32.5 | 8.9 | -37.0 | 10.0 | -41.8 | 11.3 | -46.8 | |
3 | 10 | 3.6 | -25.0 | 4.0 | -27.9 | 4.4 | -30.9 | 4.8 | -34.1 | 5.3 | -37.4 | 5.8 | -40.9 | 6.3 | -44.5 | 7.4 | -52.2 | 8.6 | -60.6 | 9.9 | -69.6 | 11.2 | -79.1 | 12.7 | -89.4 | 14.2 | -100.2 | |
3 | 20 | 3.3 | -21.0 | 3.7 | -23.4 | 4.1 | -26.0 | 4.5 | -28.6 | 5.0 | -31.4 | 5.4 | -34.4 | 5.9 | -37.4 | 7.0 | -43.9 | 8.1 | -50.9 | 9.3 | -58.4 | 10.5 | -66.5 | 11.9 | -75.1 | 13.3 | -84.2 | |
3 | 50 | 3.0 | -15.7 | 3.4 | -17.5 | 3.8 | -19.4 | 4.1 | -21.4 | 4.5 | -23.5 | 5.0 | -25.6 | 5.4 | -27.9 | 6.3 | -32.8 | 7.4 | -38.0 | 8.4 | -43.6 | 9.6 | -49.6 | 10.8 | -56.0 | 12.2 | -62.8 | |
3 | 100 | 2.8 | -11.7 | 3.1 | -13.0 | 3.5 | -14.5 | 3.8 | -15.9 | 4.2 | -17.5 | 4.6 | -19.1 | 5.0 | -20.8 | 5.9 | -24.4 | 6.8 | -28.3 | 7.8 | -32.5 | 8.9 | -37.0 | 10.0 | -41.8 | 11.3 | -46.8 | |
Gable roof > 7 to 20 degrees | 1 | 10 | 5.8 | -16.2 | 6.4 | -18.0 | 7.1 | -19.9 | 7.9 | -22.0 | 8.6 | -24.1 | 9.4 | -26.4 | 10.3 | -28.7 | 12.1 | -33.7 | 14.0 | -39.1 | 16.1 | -44.9 | 18.3 | -51.0 | 20.6 | -57.6 | 23.1 | -64.6 |
1 | 20 | 5.3 | -13.9 | 5.9 | -15.5 | 6.5 | -17.1 | 7.2 | -18.9 | 7.9 | -20.7 | 8.6 | -22.7 | 9.4 | -24.7 | 11 | -29.0 | 12.7 | -33.6 | 14.6 | -38.6 | 16.6 | -43.9 | 18.8 | -49.5 | 21.1 | -55.5 | |
1 | 50 | 4.6 | -10.9 | 5.1 | -12.1 | 5.7 | -13.4 | 6.2 | -14.8 | 6.8 | -16.3 | 7.5 | -17.8 | 8.2 | -19.4 | 9.6 | -22.7 | 11.1 | -26.4 | 12.7 | -30.3 | 14.5 | -34.4 | 16.4 | -38.9 | 18.3 | -43.6 | |
1 | 100 | 4.1 | -8.6 | 4.5 | -9.6 | 5.0 | -10.7 | 5.5 | -11.7 | 6.1 | -12.9 | 6.6 | -14.1 | 7.2 | -15.3 | 8.5 | -18.0 | 9.8 | -20.9 | 11.3 | -24.0 | 12.9 | -27.3 | 14.5 | -30.8 | 16.3 | -34.5 | |
2 | 10 | 5.8 | -21.3 | 6.4 | -23.8 | 7.1 | -26.3 | 7.9 | -29.0 | 8.6 | -31.9 | 9.4 | -34.8 | 10.3 | -37.9 | 12.1 | -44.5 | 14.0 | -51.6 | 16.1 | -59.3 | 18.3 | -67.4 | 20.6 | -76.1 | 23.1 | -85.4 | |
2 | 20 | 5.3 | -18.4 | 5.9 | -20.5 | 6.5 | -22.7 | 7.2 | -25.1 | 7.9 | -27.5 | 8.6 | -30.1 | 9.4 | -32.8 | 11.0 | -38.4 | 12.7 | -44.6 | 14.6 | -51.2 | 16.6 | -58.2 | 18.8 | -65.7 | 21.1 | -73.7 | |
2 | 50 | 4.6 | -14.6 | 5.1 | -16.2 | 5.7 | -18.0 | 6.2 | -19.8 | 6.8 | -21.8 | 7.5 | -23.8 | 8.2 | -25.9 | 9.6 | -30.4 | 11.1 | -35.3 | 12.7 | -40.5 | 14.5 | -46.1 | 16.4 | -52.0 | 18.3 | -58.3 | |
2 | 100 | 4.1 | -11.7 | 4.5 | -13.0 | 5.0 | -14.4 | 5.5 | -15.9 | 6.1 | -17.4 | 6.6 | -19.0 | 7.2 | -20.7 | 8.5 | -24.3 | 9.8 | -28.2 | 11.3 | -32.4 | 12.9 | -36.8 | 14.5 | -41.6 | 16.3 | -46.6 | |
3 | 10 | 5.8 | -28.0 | 6.4 | -31.2 | 7.1 | -34.6 | 7.9 | -38.1 | 8.6 | -41.8 | 9.4 | -45.7 | 10.3 | -49.8 | 12.1 | -58.4 | 14.0 | -67.8 | 16.1 | -77.8 | 18.3 | -88.5 | 20.6 | -99.9 | 23.1 | -112.0 | |
3 | 20 | 5.3 | -24.0 | 5.9 | -26.7 | 6.5 | -29.6 | 7.2 | -32.7 | 7.9 | -35.8 | 8.6 | -39.2 | 9.4 | -42.7 | 11.1 | -50.1 | 12.7 | -58.1 | 14.6 | -66.6 | 16.6 | -75.8 | 18.8 | -85.6 | 21.1 | -96.0 | |
3 | 50 | 4.6 | -18.7 | 5.1 | -20.8 | 5.7 | -23.1 | 6.2 | -25.4 | 6.8 | -27.9 | 7.5 | -30.5 | 8.2 | -33.2 | 9.6 | -39.0 | 11.1 | -45.2 | 12.7 | -51.9 | 14.5 | -59.1 | 16.4 | -66.7 | 18.3 | -74.7 | |
3 | 100 | 4.1 | -14.7 | 4.5 | -16.3 | 5.0 | -18.1 | 5.5 | -20.0 | 6.1 | -21.9 | 6.6 | -24.0 | 7.2 | -26.1 | 8.5 | -30.6 | 9.8 | -35.5 | 11.3 | -40.8 | 12.9 | -46.4 | 14.5 | -52.3 | 16.3 | -58.7 | |
Gable roof > 20 to 27 degrees | 1 | 10 | 5.8 | -12.4 | 6.4 | -13.9 | 7.1 | -15.4 | 7.9 | -16.9 | 8.6 | -18.6 | 9.4 | -20.3 | 10.3 | -22.1 | 12.1 | -26.0 | 14.0 | -30.1 | 16.1 | -34.6 | 18.3 | -39.3 | 20.6 | -44.4 | 23.1 | -49.8 |
1 | 20 | 5.3 | -11.2 | 5.9 | -12.5 | 6.5 | -13.9 | 7.2 | -15.3 | 7.9 | -16.8 | 8.6 | -18.4 | 9.4 | -20.0 | 11.0 | -23.5 | 12.7 | -27.2 | 14.6 | -31.2 | 16.6 | -35.5 | 18.8 | -40.1 | 21.1 | -45.0 | |
1 | 50 | 4.6 | -9.7 | 5.1 | -10.8 | 5.7 | -11.9 | 6.2 | -13.1 | 6.8 | -14.4 | 7.5 | -15.8 | 8.2 | -17.2 | 9.6 | -20.2 | 11.1 | -23.4 | 12.7 | -26.8 | 14.5 | -30.5 | 16.4 | -34.5 | 18.3 | -38.6 | |
1 | 100 | 4.1 | -8.5 | 4.5 | -9.4 | 5.0 | -10.4 | 5.5 | -11.5 | 6.1 | -12.6 | 6.6 | -13.8 | 7.2 | -15.0 | 8.5 | -17.7 | 9.8 | -20.5 | 11.3 | -23.5 | 12.9 | -26.7 | 14.5 | -30.2 | 16.3 | -33.8 | |
2 | 10 | 5.8 | -19.9 | 6.4 | -22.1 | 7.1 | -24.5 | 7.9 | -27.0 | 8.6 | -29.7 | 9.4 | -32.4 | 10.3 | -35.3 | 12.1 | -41.4 | 14.0 | -48.0 | 1.1 | -55.2 | 18.3 | -62.8 | 20.6 | -70.8 | 23.1 | -79.4 | |
2 | 20 | 5.3 | -17.0 | 5.9 | -18.9 | 6.5 | -20.9 | 7.2 | -23.1 | 7.9 | -25.3 | 8.6 | -27.7 | 9.4 | -30.1 | 11.0 | -35.4 | 12.7 | -41.0 | 14.6 | -47.1 | 16.6 | -53.6 | 18.8 | -60.5 | 21.1 | -67.8 | |
2 | 50 | 4.6 | -13.1 | 5.1 | -14.6 | 5.7 | -16.2 | 6.2 | -17.9 | 6.8 | -19.6 | 7.5 | -21.4 | 8.2 | -23.3 | 9.6 | -27.4 | 11.1 | -31.8 | 12.7 | -36.5 | 14.5 | -41.5 | 16.4 | -46.8 | 18.3 | -52.5 | |
2 | 100 | 4.1 | -10.2 | 4.5 | -11.4 | 5.0 | -12.6 | 5.5 | -13.9 | 6.1 | -15.3 | 6.6 | -16.7 | 7.2 | -18.2 | 8.5 | -21.3 | 9.8 | -24.7 | 11.3 | -28.4 | 12.9 | -32.3 | 14.5 | -36.5 | 16.3 | -40.9 | |
3 | 10 | 5.8 | -23.6 | 6.4 | -26.3 | 7.1 | -29.1 | 7.9 | -32.1 | 8.6 | -35.2 | 9.4 | -38.5 | 10.3 | -41.9 | 12.1 | -49.2 | 14.0 | -57.0 | 16.1 | -65.4 | 18.3 | -74.5 | 20.6 | -84.1 | 23.1 | -94.2 | |
3 | 20 | 5.3 | -20.0 | 5.9 | -22.3 | 6.5 | -24.7 | 7.2 | -27.2 | 7.9 | -29.9 | 8.6 | -32.6 | 9.4 | -35.5 | 11.0 | -41.7 | 12.7 | -48.4 | 14.6 | -55.5 | 16.6 | -63.2 | 18.8 | -71.3 | 21.1 | -80.0 | |
3 | 50 | 4.6 | -15.3 | 5.1 | -17.0 | 5.7 | -18.9 | 6.2 | -20.8 | 6.8 | -22.8 | 7.5 | -24.9 | 8.2 | -27.2 | 9.6 | -31.9 | 11.1 | -37.0 | 12.7 | -42.4 | 14.5 | -48.3 | 16.4 | -54.5 | 18.3 | -61.1 | |
3 | 100 | 4.1 | -11.7 | 4.5 | -13.0 | 5.0 | -14.5 | 5.5 | -15.9 | 6.1 | -17.5 | 6.6 | -19.1 | 7.2 | -20.8 | 8.5 | -24.4 | 9.8 | -28.3 | 11.3 | -32.5 | 12.9 | -37.0 | 14.5 | -41.8 | 16.3 | -46.8 | |
Gable roof > 27 to 45 degrees | 1 | 10 | 8.0 | -14.7 | 8.9 | -16.3 | 9.9 | -18.1 | 10.9 | -20.0 | 12.0 | -21.9 | 13.1 | -24.0 | 14.2 | -26.1 | 16.7 | -30.6 | 19.4 | -35.5 | 22.2 | -40.8 | 25.3 | -46.4 | 28.5 | -52.3 | 32.0 | -58.7 |
1 | 20 | 7.3 | -12.4 | 8.2 | -13.9 | 9.0 | -15.4 | 10.0 | -16.9 | 10.9 | -18.6 | 11.9 | -20.3 | 13.0 | -22.1 | 15.3 | -26.0 | 17.7 | -30.1 | 0.3 | -34.6 | 23.1 | -39.3 | 26.1 | -44.4 | 29.3 | -49.8 | |
1 | 50 | 6.4 | -9.5 | 7.1 | -10.6 | 7.9 | -11.7 | 8.7 | -12.9 | 9.6 | -14.2 | 10.5 | -15.5 | 11.4 | -16.9 | 13 .4 | -19.8 | 15.5 | -23.0 | 17.8 | -26.4 | 20.3 | -30.0 | 22.9 | -33.9 | 25.6 | -38.0 | |
1 | 100 | 5.7 | -7.3 | 6.4 | -8.1 | 7.1 | -9.0 | 7.8 | -9.9 | 8.6 | -10.8 | 9.3 | -11.9 | 10.2 | -12.9 | 11.9 | -15.1 | 13.9 | -17.6 | 15.9 | -20.2 | 18.1 | -22.9 | 20.4 | -25.9 | 22.9 | -29.0 | |
2 | 10 | 8.0 | -16.2 | 8.9 | -18.0 | 9.9 | -19.9 | 10.9 | -22.0 | 12.0 | -24.1 | 13.1 | -26.4 | -14.2 | -28.7 | 16.7 | -33.7 | 19.4 | -39.1 | 22.2 | -44.9 | 25.3 | -51.0 | 28.5 | -57.6 | 32.0 | -64.6 | |
2 | 20 | 7.3 | -14.4 | 8.2 | -16.1 | 9.0 | -17.8 | 10.0 | -19.7 | 10.9 | -21.6 | 11.9 | -23.6 | 13.0 | -25.7 | 15.3 | -30.1 | 17.7 | -34.9 | 20.3 | -40.1 | 23.1 | -45.6 | 26.1 | -51.5 | 29.3 | -57.7 | |
2 | 50 | 6.4 | -12.2 | 7.1 | -13.6 | 7.9 | -15.0 | 8.7 | -16.6 | 9.6 | -18.2 | 10.5 | -19.9 | 11.4 | -21.6 | 13.4 | -25.4 | 15.5 | -29.5 | 17.8 | -33.8 | 20.3 | -38.5 | 22.9 | -43.4 | 25.6 | -48.7 | |
2 | 100 | 5.7 | -10.5 | 6.4 | -11.6 | 6.2 | -12.9 | 7.8 | -14.2 | 8.6 | -15.6 | 9.3 | -17.1 | 10.2 | -18.6 | 11.9 | -21.8 | 13.9 | -25.3 | 15.9 | -29.0 | 18.1 | -33.0 | 20.4 | -37.3 | 22.9 | -41.8 | |
3 | 10 | 8.0 | -19.9 | 8.9 | -22.1 | 9.9 | -24.5 | 10.9 | -27.0 | 12.0 | -29.7 | 13.1 | -32.4 | 14.2 | -35.3 | 16.7 | -41.4 | 19.4 | -48.0 | 22.2 | -55.2 | 25.3 | -62.8 | 28.5 | -70.8 | 32.0 | -79.4 | |
3 | 20 | 7.3 | -17.3 | 8.2 | -19.3 | 9.0 | -21.3 | 10.0 | -23.5 | 10.9 | -25.8 | 11.9 | -28.2 | 13.0 | -30.7 | 15.3 | -36.1 | 0.0 | -41.8 | 20.3 | -48.0 | 23.1 | -54.6 | 26.1 | -61.7 | 29.3 | -69.1 | |
3 | 50 | 6.4 | -13.9 | 7.1 | -15.5 | 7.9 | -17 .1 | 8.7 | -18.9 | 9.6 | -20.7 | 10.5 | -22.7 | 11.4 | -24.7 | 13 .4 | -29.0 | 15.5 | -33.6 | 17.8 | -38.6 | 20.3 | -43.9 | 22.9 | -49.5 | 25.6 | -55.5 | |
3 | 100 | 5.7 | -11.3 | 6.4 | -12.6 | 7.1 | -14.0 | 7.8 | -15.4 | 8.6 | -16.9 | 9.3 | -18.5 | 10.2 | -20.1 | 11.9 | -23.6 | 13.9 | -27.4 | 15.9 | -31.4 | 18.1 | -35.8 | 20.4 | -40.4 | 22.9 | -45.3 | |
Hipped roof > 7 to 20 degrees | 1 | 10 | 6.5 | -14.7 | 7.3 | -16.3 | 8.0 | -18.1 | 8.9 | -20.0 | 9.7 | -21.9 | 10.6 | -24.0 | 11.6 | -26.1 | 13.6 | -30.6 | 15.8 | -35.5 | 18.1 | -40.8 | 20.6 | -46.4 | 23.3 | -52.3 | 26.1 | -58.7 |
1 | 20 | 5.6 | -13.0 | 6.3 | -14.4 | 6.9 | -16.0 | 7.7 | -17.6 | 8.4 | -19.4 | 9.2 | -21.2 | 10.0 | -23.0 | 11.7 | -27.0 | 13.6 | -31.3 | 15.6 | -36.0 | 17.8 | -40.9 | 20.1 | -46.2 | 22.5 | -51.8 | |
1 | 50 | 4.4 | -10.7 | 5.0 | -10.0 | 5.5 | -13.2 | 6.1 | -14.5 | 6.6 | -16.0 | 7.3 | -17 .5 | 7.9 | -19.0 | 9.3 | -22.3 | 10.8 | -25.9 | 12.4 | -29.7 | 14.1 | -33 .8 | 15.9 | -38.1 | 17.8 | -42.8 | |
1 | 100 | 3.6 | -9.0 | 4.0 | -9.7 | 4.4 | -11.1 | 4.8 | -12.2 | 5.3 | -13.4 | 5.8 | -14.7 | 6.3 | -16.0 | 7.4 | -18.7 | 8.6 | -21.7 | 9.9 | -24.9 | 11.2 | -28.4 | 12.7 | -32.0 | 14.2 | -35.9 | |
2 | 10 | 6.5 | -19.1 | 7.3 | -21.3 | 8.0 | -23.6 | 8.9 | -26.0 | 9.7 | -28.6 | 10.6 | -31.2 | 11.6 | -34.0 | 13.6 | -39.9 | 15.8 | -46.3 | 18.1 | -53.1 | 20.6 | -60.4 | 23.3 | -68.2 | 26.1 | -76.5 | |
2 | 20 | 5.6 | -17.2 | 6.3 | -19.2 | 6.9 | -21.3 | 7.7 | -23.5 | 8.4 | -25.7 | 9.2 | -28.1 | 10.0 | -30.6 | 11.7 | -35.9 | 13.6 | -41.7 | 15.6 | -47.9 | 17.8 | -54.5 | 20.1 | -61.5 | 22.5 | -68.9 | |
2 | 50 | 4.4 | -14.7 | 5.0 | -16.4 | 5.5 | -18.2 | 6.1 | -20.1 | 6.6 | -22.0 | 7.3 | -24.1 | 7.9 | -26.2 | 9.3 | -30.7 | 10.8 | -35.7 | 12.4 | -40.9 | 14.1 | -46.6 | 15.9 | -52.6 | 17.8 | -58.9 | |
2 | 100 | 3.6 | -12.8 | 4.0 | -14.3 | 4.4 | -15.9 | 4.8 | -17.5 | 5.3 | -19.2 | 5.8 | -21.0 | 6.3 | -22.8 | 7.4 | -26.8 | 8.6 | -31.1 | 9.9 | -35.7 | 11.2 | -40.6 | 12.7 | -45.9 | 14.2 | -51.4 | |
3 | 10 | 6.5 | -20.6 | 7.3 | -22.9 | 8.0 | -25.4 | 8.9 | -28.0 | 9.7 | -30.8 | 10.6 | -33.6 | 11.6 | -36.6 | 13.6 | -43.0 | 15.8 | -49.8 | 18.1 | -57.2 | 20.6 | -65.1 | 23.3 | -73.5 | 26.1 | -82.4 | |
3 | 20 | 5.6 | -18.5 | 6.3 | -20.7 | 6.9 | -22.9 | 7.7 | -25.2 | 8.4 | -27.7 | 9.2 | -30.3 | 10.0 | -33.0 | 11.7 | -38.7 | 13.6 | -44.9 | 15.6 | -51.5 | 17.8 | -58.6 | 20.1 | -66.2 | 22.5 | -74.2 | |
3 | 50 | 4.4 | -15.8 | 5.0 | -17.6 | 5.5 | -19.5 | 6.1 | -21.5 | 6.6 | -23.6 | 7.3 | -25.8 | 7.9 | -28.1 | 9.3 | -33.0 | 10.8 | -38.3 | 12.4 | -43.9 | 14.1 | -50.0 | 15.9 | -56.5 | 17.8 | -63.3 | |
3 | 100 | 3.6 | -13.8 | 4.0 | -15.3 | 4.4 | -17.0 | 4.8 | -18.7 | 5.3 | -20.6 | 5.8 | -22.5 | 6.3 | -24.5 | 7.4 | -28.7 | 8.6 | -33.3 | 9.9 | -38.2 | 11.2 | -43.5 | 12.7 | -49.1 | 14.2 | -55.1 | |
Hipped roof > 20 to 27 degrees | 1 | 10 | 6.5 | -11.7 | 7.3 | -13.0 | 8.0 | -14.5 | 8.9 | -15.9 | 9.7 | -17.5 | 10.6 | -19.1 | 11.6 | -20.8 | 13.6 | -24.4 | 15.8 | -28.3 | 18.1 | -32.5 | 20.6 | -37.0 | 23.3 | -41.8 | 26.1 | -46.8 |
1 | 20 | 5.6 | -10.4 | 6.3 | -11.6 | 6.9 | -12.8 | 7.7 | -14.1 | 8.4 | -15.5 | 9.2 | -16.9 | 10.0 | -18.4 | 11.7 | -21.6 | 13.6 | -25.1 | 15.6 | -28.8 | 17.8 | -32.8 | 20.1 | -37.0 | 22.5 | -41.5 | |
1 | 50 | 4.4 | -8.6 | 5.0 | -9.6 | 5.5 | -10.6 | 6.1 | -11.7 | 6.6 | -12.8 | 7.3 | -14.0 | 7.9 | -15.3 | 9.3 | -17.9 | 10.8 | -20.8 | 12.4 | -23.9 | 14.1 | -27.2 | 15.9 | -30.7 | 17.8 | -34.4 | |
1 | 100 | 3.6 | -7.3 | 4.0 | -8.1 | 4.4 | -9.0 | 4.8 | -9.9 | 5.3 | -10.8 | 5.8 | -11.9 | 6.3 | -12.9 | 7.4 | -15.1 | 8.6 | -17.6 | 9.9 | -20.2 | 11.2 | -22.9 | 12.7 | -25.9 | 14.2 | -29.0 | |
2 | 10 | 6.5 | -16.2 | 7.3 | -18.0 | 8.0 | -19.9 | 8.9 | -22.0 | 9.7 | -24.1 | 10.6 | -26.4 | 11.6 | -28.7 | 13.6 | -33.7 | 15.8 | -39.1 | 18.1 | -44.9 | 20.6 | -51.0 | 23.3 | -57.6 | 26.1 | -64.6 | |
2 | 20 | 5.6 | -13.9 | 6.3 | -15.5 | 6.9 | -17.2 | 7.7 | -18.9 | 8.4 | -20.8 | 9.2 | -22.7 | 10.0 | -24 .7 | 11.7 | -29.0 | 13.6 | -33.7 | 15.6 | -38.7 | 17.8 | -44.0 | 20.1 | -49.7 | 22.5 | -55.7 | |
2 | 50 | 4.4 | -11.0 | 5.0 | -12.2 | 5.5 | -13.5 | 6.1 | -14.9 | 6.6 | -16.4 | 7.3 | -17.9 | 7.9 | -19.5 | 9.3 | -22.9 | 10.8 | -26.6 | 12.4 | -30.5 | 14.1 | -34.7 | 15.9 | -39.2 | 17.8 | -43.9 | |
2 | 100 | 3.6 | -8.7 | 4.0 | -9.7 | 4.4 | -10.8 | 4.8 | -11.9 | 5.3 | -13.1 | 5.8 | -14.3 | 6.3 | -15.5 | 7.4 | -18.2 | 8.6 | -21.2 | 9.9 | -24.3 | 11.2 | -27.6 | 12.7 | -31.2 | 14.2 | -35.0 | |
3 | 10 | 6.5 | -16.2 | 7.3 | -18.0 | 8.0 | -19.9 | 8.9 | -22.0 | 9.7 | -24.1 | 10.6 | -26.4 | 11.6 | -28.7 | 13.6 | -33.7 | 15.8 | -39.1 | 18.1 | -44.9 | 20.6 | -51.0 | 23.3 | -57.6 | 26.1 | -64.6 | |
3 | 20 | 5.6 | -13.9 | 6.3 | -15.5 | 6.9 | -17.2 | 7.7 | -18.9 | 8.4 | -20.8 | 9.2 | -22.7 | 10.0 | -24.7 | 11.7 | -29.0 | 13.6 | -33.7 | 15.6 | -38.7 | 17.8 | -44.0 | 20.1 | -49.7 | 22.5 | -55.7 | |
3 | 50 | 4.4 | -11.0 | 5.0 | -12.2 | 5.5 | -13.5 | 6.1 | -14.9 | 6.6 | -16.4 | 7.3 | -17.9 | 7.9 | -19.5 | 9.3 | -22.9 | 10.8 | -26.6 | 12.4 | -30.5 | 14.1 | -34.7 | 15.9 | -39.2 | 17.8 | -43.9 | |
3 | 100 | 3.6 | -8.7 | 4.0 | -9.7 | 4.4 | -10.8 | 4.8 | -11.9 | 5.3 | -13.1 | 5.8 | -14.3 | 6.3 | -15.5 | 7.4 | -18.2 | 8.6 | -21.2 | 9.9 | -24.3 | 11.2 | -27.6 | 12.7 | -31.2 | 14.2 | -35.0 | |
Hip Roof = 45 degrees | 1 | 10 | 6.5 | -12.4 | 7.3 | -13.9 | 8.0 | -15.4 | 8.9 | -16.9 | 9.7 | -18.6 | 10.6 | -20.3 | 11.6 | -22.1 | 13.6 | -26.0 | 15.8 | -30.1 | 18.1 | -34.6 | 20.6 | -39.3 | 23.3 | -44.4 | 26.1 | -49.8 |
1 | 20 | 5.4 | -10.7 | 6.3 | -11.9 | 6.9 | -13.2 | 7.7 | -14.5 | 8.4 | -15.9 | 9.2 | -17.4 | 10.0 | -19.0 | 11.7 | -22.2 | 13.6 | -25.8 | 15.6 | -29.6 | 17.8 | -33.7 | 20.1 | -38.0 | 22.5 | -42.7 | |
1 | 50 | 4.4 | -8.3 | 5.0 | -9.3 | 5.5 | -10.3 | 6.1 | -11.3 | 6.6 | -12.4 | 7.3 | -13.6 | 7.9 | -14.8 | 9.3 | -17.3 | 10.8 | -20.1 | 12.4 | -23.1 | 14.1 | -26.2 | 15.9 | -29.6 | 17.8 | -33.2 | |
1 | 100 | 3.6 | -6.5 | 4.0 | -7.3 | 4.4 | -8.0 | 4.8 | -8.9 | 5.3 | -9.7 | 5.8 | -10.6 | 6.3 | -11.6 | 7.4 | -13.6 | 8.6 | -15.8 | 9.9 | -18.1 | 11.2 | -20.6 | 12.7 | -23.3 | 14.2 | -26.1 | |
2 | 10 | 6.5 | -14.7 | 7.3 | -16.3 | 8.0 | -18.1 | 8.9 | -20.0 | 9.7 | -21.9 | 10.6 | -24.0 | 11.6 | -26.1 | 13.6 | -30.6 | 15.8 | -35.5 | 18.1 | -40.8 | 20.6 | -46.4 | 23.3 | -52.3 | 26.1 | -58.7 | |
2 | 20 | 5.6 | -12.4 | 6.3 | -13.9 | 6.9 | -15.4 | 7.7 | -16.9 | 8.4 | -18.6 | 9.2 | -20.3 | 10.0 | -22.1 | 11.7 | -26.0 | 13.6 | -30.1 | 15.6 | -34.6 | 17.8 | -39.3 | 20.1 | -44.4 | 22.5 | -49.8 | |
2 | 50 | 4.4 | -9.5 | 5.0 | -10.6 | 5.5 | -11.7 | 6.1 | -12.9 | 6.6 | -14.2 | 7.3 | -15.5 | 7.9 | -16.9 | 9.3 | -19.8 | 10.8 | -23.0 | 12.4 | -26.4 | 14.1 | -30.0 | 15.9 | -33.9 | 17.8 | -38.0 | |
2 | 100 | 3.6 | -7.3 | 4.0 | -8.1 | 4.4 | -9.0 | 4.8 | -9.9 | 5.3 | -10.8 | 5.8 | -11.9 | 6.3 | -12.9 | 7.4 | -15.1 | 8.6 | -17.6 | 9.9 | -20.2 | 11.2 | -22.9 | 12.7 | -25.9 | 14.2 | -29.0 | |
3 | 10 | 6.5 | -19.1 | 7.3 | -21.3 | 8.0 | -23.6 | 8.9 | -26.0 | 9.7 | -28.6 | 10.6 | -31.2 | 11.6 | -34.0 | 13.6 | -39.9 | 15.8 | -46.3 | 18.1 | -53.1 | 20.6 | -60.4 | 23.3 | -68.2 | 26.1 | -76.5 | |
3 | 20 | 5.6 | -16.0 | 6.3 | -17.8 | 6.9 | -19.7 | 7.7 | -21.8 | 8.4 | -22.5 | 8.9 | -24.6 | 9.6 | -26.7 | 11.3 | -31.4 | 13.1 | -36.4 | 15.1 | -41.8 | 17.1 | -47.5 | 19.4 | -53.7 | 22.5 | -64.0 | |
3 | 50 | 4.4 | -11.9 | 5.0 | -13.2 | 5.5 | -14.6 | 6.1 | -16.1 | 6.6 | -17.7 | 7.3 | -19.4 | 7.9 | -21.1 | 9.3 | -24.8 | 10.8 | -28.7 | 12.4 | -33.0 | 14.1 | -37.5 | 15.9 | -42.3 | 17.8 | -47.5 | |
3 | 100 | 3.6 | -8.7 | 4.0 | -9.7 | 4.4 | -10.8 | 4.8 | -11.9 | 5.3 | -13.1 | 5.8 | -14.3 | 6.3 | -15.5 | 7.4 | -18.2 | 8.6 | -21.2 | 9.9 | -24.3 | 11.2 | -27.6 | 12.7 | -31.2 | 14.2 | -35.0 | |
Walls | 4 | 10 | 8.7 | -9.5 | 9.7 | -10.6 | 10.8 | -11.7 | 11.9 | -12.9 | 13.1 | -14.2 | 14.3 | -15.5 | 15.5 | -16.9 | 18.2 | -19.8 | 21.2 | -22.9 | 24.3 | -26.3 | 27.6 | -30.0 | 31.2 | -33.8 | 35.0 | -37.9 |
4 | 20 | 8.3 | -9.1 | 9.3 | -10.1 | 10.3 | -11.2 | 11.4 | -12.4 | 12.5 | -13.6 | 13.6 | -14.8 | 14.8 | -16.2 | 17.4 | -19.0 | 20.2 | -22.0 | 23.2 | -25.3 | 26.4 | -28.7 | 29.8 | -32.4 | 33.4 | -36.4 | |
4 | 50 | 7.8 | -8.6 | 8.7 | -9.5 | 9.7 | -10.6 | 10.7 | -11.7 | 11.7 | -12.8 | 12.8 | -14.0 | 13.9 | -15.2 | 16.3 | -17.9 | 18.9 | -20.7 | 21.7 | -23.8 | 24.7 | -27.1 | 27.9 | -30.6 | 31.3 | -34.3 | |
4 | 100 | 7.4 | -8.2 | 8.3 | -9.1 | 9.2 | -10.1 | 10.1 | -11.1 | 11.1 | -12.2 | 12.1 | -13.3 | 13.2 | -14.5 | 15.5 | -17.1 | 18.0 | -19.8 | 20.7 | -22.7 | 23.5 | -25.8 | 26.5 | -29.2 | 29.7 | -32.7 | |
5 | 10 | 8.7 | -11.7 | 9.7 | -13.0 | 10.8 | -14.5 | 11.9 | -15.9 | 13.1 | -17.5 | 14.3 | -19.1 | 15.5 | -20.8 | 18.2 | -24.4 | 21.2 | -28.3 | 24.3 | -32.5 | 27.6 | -37.0 | 31.2 | -41.8 | 35.0 | -46.8 | |
5 | 20 | 8.3 | -10.9 | 9.3 | -12.2 | 10.3 | -13.5 | 11.4 | -14.9 | 12.5 | -16.3 | 13.6 | -17.8 | 14.8 | -19.4 | 17.4 | -22.8 | 20.2 | -26.4 | 23.2 | -30.3 | 26.4 | -34.5 | 29.8 | -39.0 | 33.4 | -43.7 | |
5 | 50 | 7.8 | -9.9 | 8.7 | -11.0 | 9.7 | -12.2 | 10.7 | -13.4 | 11.7 | -14.8 | 12.8 | -16.1 | 13.9 | -17.6 | 16.3 | -20.6 | 18.9 | -23.9 | 21.7 | -27.4 | 24.7 | -31.2 | 27.9 | -35.2 | 31.3 | -39.5 | |
5 | 100 | 7.4 | -9.1 | 8.3 | -10.1 | 9.2 | -11.2 | 10.1 | -12.4 | 11.1 | -13.6 | 12.1 | -14.8 | 13.2 | -16.2 | 15.5 | -19.0 | 18.0 | -22.0 | 20.7 | -25.2 | 23.5 | -28.7 | 26.5 | -32.4 | 29.7 | -36.4 | |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
- a.
The effective wind area shall be equal to the span length multiplied by an effective width. This width shall be not less than one-third the span length. For cladding fasteners, the effective wind areas shall not be greater than the area that is tributary to an individual fastener.
- b.
For effective areas between those given, the load shall be interpolated or the load associated with the lower effective areas shall be used.
- c.
- d.
- e.
Plus and minus signs signify pressures acting toward and away from the building surfaces.
- f.
Positive and negative design wind pressures shall not be less than 10 psf.
- g.
Roof overhang loads shall be determined by summing the applicable roof zone pressure with the adjacent wall zone pressure.
R301.2.1.1 Wind limitations and wind design required.
The wind provisions of this code shall not apply to the design of buildings where wind design is required in accordance with Figure R301.2.1.1, or where the ultimate design wind speed, Vult, in Figure R301.2(2) equals or exceeds 140 miles per hour (225 kph) in a special wind region.
Exceptions:
- 1.
- 2.
- 3.
In regions where wind design is required in accordance with Figure R301.2.1.1 or where the ultimate design wind speed, Vult, in Figure R301.2(2) equals or exceeds 140 miles per hour (225 kph) in a special wind region, the design of buildings for wind loads shall be in accordance with one or more of the following methods:
- 1.
- 2.
- 3.
- 4.
- 5.
The elements of design not addressed by the methods in Items 1 through 5 shall be in accordance with the provisions of this code.
Where ASCE 7 or the International Building Code is used for the design of the building, the wind speed map and exposure category requirements as specified in ASCE 7 and the International Building Code shall be used.
Sunrooms shall comply with AAMA/NPEA/NSA 2100. For the purpose of applying the criteria of AAMA/NPEA/NSA 2100 based on the intended use, sunrooms shall be identified as one of the following categories by the permit applicant, design professional or the property owner or owner’s agent in the construction documents. Component and cladding pressures shall be used for the design of elements that do not qualify as main windforce-resisting systems. Main windforce-resisting system pressures shall be used for the design of elements assigned to provide support and stability for the overall sunroom.
-
Category I: A thermally isolated sunroom with walls that are open or enclosed with insect screening or 0.5 mm (20 mil) maximum thickness plastic film. The space is nonhabitable and unconditioned.
-
Category II: A thermally isolated sunroom with enclosed walls. The openings are enclosed with translucent or transparent plastic or glass. The space is nonhabitable and unconditioned.
-
Category III: A thermally isolated sunroom with enclosed walls. The openings are enclosed with translucent or transparent plastic or glass. The sunroom fenestration complies with additional requirements for air infiltration resistance and water penetration resistance. The space is nonhabitable and unconditioned.
-
Category IV: A thermally isolated sunroom with enclosed walls. The sunroom is designed to be heated or cooled by a separate temperature control or system and is thermally isolated from the primary structure. The sunroom fenestration complies with additional requirements for water penetration resistance, air infiltration resistance and thermal performance. The space is nonhabitable and conditioned.
-
Category V: A sunroom with enclosed walls. The sunroom is designed to be heated or cooled and is open to the main structure. The sunroom fenestration complies with additional requirements for water penetration resistance, air infiltration resistance and thermal performance. The space is habitable and conditioned.
R301.2.1.2 Protection of openings.
Exterior glazing in buildings located in windborne debris regions shall be protected from windborne debris. Glazed opening protection for windborne debris shall meet the requirements of the Large Missile Test of ASTM E1886 and ASTM E1996. Garage door glazed opening protection for windborne debris shall meet the requirements of an approved impact-resisting standard or ANSI/DASMA 115.
Exception: Wood structural panels with a thickness of not less than 7/16 inch (11 mm) and a span of not more than 8 feet (2438 mm) shall be permitted for opening protection. Panels shall be precut and attached to the framing surrounding the opening containing the product with the glazed opening. Panels shall be predrilled as required for the anchorage method and shall be secured with the attachment hardware provided. Attachments shall be designed to resist the component and cladding loads determined in accordance with either Table R301.2.1(1) or ASCE 7, with the permanent corrosion-resistant attachment hardware provided and anchors permanently installed on the building. Attachment in accordance with Table R301.2.1.2 is permitted for buildings with a mean roof height of 45 feet (13 716 mm) or less where the ultimate design wind speed, Vult, is 180 mph (290 kph) or less.
FASTENER TYPE | FASTENER SPACING (inches)a, b | ||
Panel span ≤ 4 feet | 4 feet < panel span ≤ 6 feet | 6 feet < panel span ≤ 8 feet | |
No. 8 wood-screw-based anchor with 2-inch embedment length | 16 | 10 | 8 |
No. 10 wood-screw-based anchor with 2-inch embedment length | 16 | 12 | 9 |
1/4-inch lag-screw-based anchor with 2-inch embedment length | 16 | 16 | 16 |
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound = 0.45 kg.
- a.
This table is based on 180 mph ultimate design wind speeds, Vult, and a 45-foot mean roof height.
- b.
Fasteners shall be installed at opposing ends of the wood structural panel. Fasteners shall be located not less than 1 inch from the edge of the panel.
- c.
Anchors shall penetrate through the exterior wall covering with an embedment length of not less than 2 inches into the building frame. Fasteners shall be located not less than 2 1/2 inches from the edge of concrete block or concrete.
- d.
Panels attached to masonry or masonry/stucco shall be attached using vibration-resistant anchors having an ultimate withdrawal capacity of not less than 1,500 pounds.
R301.2.1.3 Wind speed conversion.
Where referenced documents are based on nominal design wind speeds and do not provide the means for conversion between ultimate design wind speeds and nominal design wind speeds, the ultimate design wind speeds, Vult, of Figure R301.2(2) shall be converted to nominal design wind speeds, Vasd, using Table R301.2.1.3.
Vult | 110 | 115 | 120 | 130 | 140 | 150 | 160 | 170 | 180 | 190 | 200 |
Vasd | 85 | 89 | 93 | 101 | 108 | 116 | 124 | 132 | 139 | 147 | 155 |
For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
- a.
Linear interpolation is permitted.
R301.2.1.4 Exposure category.
For each wind direction considered, an exposure category that adequately reflects the characteristics of ground surface irregularities shall be determined for the site at which the building or structure is to be constructed. For a site located in the transition zone between categories, the category resulting in the largest wind forces shall apply. Account shall be taken of variations in ground surface roughness that arise from natural topography and vegetation as well as from constructed features. For a site where multiple detached one- and two-family dwellings, townhouses or other structures are to be constructed as part of a subdivision or master-planned community, or are otherwise designated as a developed area by the authority having jurisdiction, the exposure category for an individual structure shall be based on the site conditions that will exist at the time when all adjacent structures on the site have been constructed, provided that their construction is expected to begin within 1 year of the start of construction for the structure for which the exposure category is determined. For any given wind direction, the exposure in which a specific building or other structure is sited shall be assessed as being one of the following categories:
- 1.
Exposure B. Urban and suburban areas, wooded areas or other terrain with numerous closely spaced obstructions having the size of single-family dwellings or larger. Exposure B shall be assumed unless the site meets the definition of another type exposure.
- 2.
Exposure C. Open terrain with scattered obstructions, including surface undulations or other irregularities, having heights generally less than 30 feet (9144 mm) extending more than 1,500 feet (457 m) from the building site in any quadrant. This exposure shall apply to any building located within Exposure B type terrain where the building is directly adjacent to open areas of Exposure C type terrain in any quadrant for a distance of more than 600 feet (183 m). This category includes flat, open country and grasslands.
- 3.
Exposure D. Flat, unobstructed areas exposed to wind flowing over open water, smooth mud flats, salt flats and unbroken ice for a distance of not less than 5,000 feet (1524 m). This exposure shall apply only to those buildings and other structures exposed to the wind coming from over the unobstructed area. Exposure D extends downwind from the edge of the unobstructed area a distance of 600 feet (183 m) or 20 times the height of the building or structure, whichever is greater.
R301.2.1.5 Topographic wind effects.
In areas designated in Table R301.2 as having local historical data documenting structural damage to buildings caused by wind speed-up at isolated hills, ridges and escarpments that are abrupt changes from the general topography of the area, topographic wind effects shall be considered in the design of the building in accordance with Section R301.2.1.5.1 or in accordance with the provisions of ASCE 7. See Figure R301.2.1.5.1(1) for topographic features for wind speed-up effect.
In these designated areas, topographic wind effects shall apply only to buildings sited on the top half of an isolated hill, ridge or escarpment where all of the following conditions exist:
- 1.
The average slope of the top half of the hill, ridge or escarpment is 10 percent or greater.
- 2.
The hill, ridge or escarpment is 60 feet (18 288 mm) or greater in height for Exposure B, 30 feet (9144 mm) or greater in height for Exposure C, and 15 feet (4572 mm) or greater in height for Exposure D.
As an alternative to the ASCE 7 topographic wind provisions, the provisions of Section R301.2.1.5.1 shall be permitted to be used to design for wind speed-up effects, where required by Section R301.2.1.5.
Structures located on the top half of isolated hills, ridges or escarpments meeting the conditions of Section R301.2.1.5 shall be designed for an increased basic wind speed as determined by Table R301.2.1.5.1. On the high side of an escarpment, the increased basic wind speed shall extend horizontally downwind from the edge of the escarpment 1.5 times the horizontal length of the upwind slope (1.5L) or 6 times the height of the escarpment (6H), whichever is greater. See Figure R301.2.1.5.1(2) for where wind speed increase is applied.
AVERAGE SLOPE OF THE TOP HALF OF HILL, RIDGE OR ESCARPMENT (percent) | |||||||
0.10 | 0.125 | 0.15 | 0.175 | 0.20 | 0.23 | 0.25 | |
Required ultimate design wind speed-up, modified for topographic wind speed-up (mph) | |||||||
95 | 114 | 119 | 123 | 127 | 131 | 137 | 140 |
100 | 120 | 125 | 129 | 134 | 138 | 144 | 147 |
105 | 126 | 131 | 135 | 141 | 145 | 151 | 154 |
110 | 132 | 137 | 142 | 147 | 152 | 158 | 162 |
115 | 138 | 143 | 148 | 154 | 159 | 165 | 169 |
120 | 144 | 149 | 155 | 160 | 166 | 172 | 176 |
130 | 156 | 162 | 168 | 174 | 179 | NA | NA |
140 | 168 | 174 | 181 | NA | NA | NA | NA |
150 | 180 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA |
For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
NA = Not Applicable.
- a.
Table applies to a feature height of 500 feet or less and dwellings and townhouses sited a distance equal or greater than half the feature height.
- b.
R301.2.2 Seismic provisions.
Buildings within the scope of this code as defined in Section R101.2 shall be constructed in accordance with the requirements of this section and other seismic requirements of this code. The seismic provisions of this code shall apply as follows:
- 1.
- 2.
Buildings in Seismic Design Category E shall be designed to resist seismic loads in accordance with the International Building Code, except where the seismic design categories are reclassified to lower seismic design categories in accordance with Section R301.2.2.1. Components of buildings not required to be designed to resist seismic loads shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of this code.
R301.2.2.1 Determination of seismic design category.
Buildings shall be assigned a seismic design category in accordance with Figures R301.2.2.1(1) through R301.2.2.1(7), except as otherwise required by Section R401.4.
The seismic design category and short-period design spectral response accelerations, SDS , for a site shall be allowed to be determined in accordance with Section 1613 of the International Building Code. The value of SDS determined in accordance with the International Building Code is permitted to be used to set the seismic design category in accordance with Table R301.2.2.1.1, and to interpolate between values in Tables R602.10.3(3) and R603.9.2(1) and other seismic design requirements of this code.
CALCULATED SDS | SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY |
SDS ≤ 0.17g | A |
0.17g < SDS ≤ 0.33g | B |
0.33g < SDS ≤ 0.50g | C |
0.50g < SDS ≤ 0.67g | D0 |
0.67g < SDS ≤ 0.83g | D1 |
0.83g < SDS ≤ 1.25g | D2 |
1.25g < SDS | E |
Buildings located in seismic design category E in accordance with Figures R301.2.2.1(1) through R301.2.2.1(7) are permitted to be reclassified as being in seismic design category D2 provided that one of the following is done:
- 1.
A more detailed evaluation of the seismic design category is made in accordance with the provisions and maps of the International Building Code. Buildings located in seismic design category E in accordance with Table R301.2.2.1.1, but located in seismic design category D in accordance with the International Building Code, shall be permitted to be designed using the seismic design category D2 requirements of this code.
- 2.
Buildings located in seismic design category E that conform to all of the following additional restrictions are permitted to be constructed in accordance with the provisions for seismic design category D2 of this code:
- 2.1.
All exterior shear wall lines or braced wall panels are in one plane vertically from the foundation to the uppermost story.
- 2.2.
Floors shall not cantilever past the exterior walls.
- 2.3.
- 2.1.
R301.2.2.2 Weights of materials.
Average dead loads shall not exceed 15 pounds per square foot (720 Pa) for the combined roof and ceiling assemblies (on a horizontal projection) or 10 pounds per square foot (480 Pa) for floor assemblies, except as further limited by Section R301.2.2. Dead loads for walls above grade shall not exceed:
- 1.
Fifteen pounds per square foot (720 Pa) for exterior light-frame wood walls.
- 2.
Fourteen pounds per square foot (670 Pa) for exterior light-frame cold-formed steel walls.
- 3.
Ten pounds per square foot (480 Pa) for interior light-frame wood walls.
- 4.
Five pounds per square foot (240 Pa) for interior light-frame cold-formed steel walls.
- 5.
Eighty pounds per square foot (3830 Pa) for 8-inch-thick (203 mm) masonry walls.
- 6.
Eighty-five pounds per square foot (4070 Pa) for 6-inch-thick (152 mm) concrete walls.
- 7.
Ten pounds per square foot (480 Pa) for SIP walls.
Exceptions:
- 1.
- 2.
- 3.
R301.2.2.6 Irregular buildings.
The seismic provisions of this code shall not be used for structures, or portions thereof, located in Seismic Design Categories C, D0, D1 and D2 and considered to be irregular in accordance with this section. A building or portion of a building shall be considered to be irregular where one or more of the conditions defined in Items 1 through 8 occur. Irregular structures, or irregular portions of structures, shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice to the extent the irregular features affect the performance of the remaining structural system. Where the forces associated with the irregularity are resisted by a structural system designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice, the remainder of the building shall be permitted to be designed using the provisions of this code.
- 1.
Shear wall or braced wall offsets out of plane. Conditions where exterior shear wall lines or braced wall panels are not in one plane vertically from the foundation to the uppermost story in which they are required.
Exception: For wood light-frame construction, floors with cantilevers or setbacks not exceeding four times the nominal depth of the wood floor joists are permitted to support braced wall panels that are out of plane with braced wall panels below provided that all of the following are satisfied:
- 1.
Floor joists are nominal 2 inches by 10 inches (51 mm by 254 mm) or larger and spaced not more than 16 inches (406 mm) on center.
- 2.
The ratio of the back span to the cantilever is not less than 2 to 1.
- 3.
Floor joists at ends of braced wall panels are doubled.
- 4.
For wood-frame construction, a continuous rim joist is connected to ends of cantilever joists. Where spliced, the rim joists shall be spliced using a galvanized metal tie not less than 0.058 inch (1.5 mm) (16 gage) and 1 1/2 inches (38 mm) wide fastened with six 16d nails on each side of the splice; or a block of the same size as the rim joist and of sufficient length to fit securely between the joist space at which the splice occurs, fastened with eight 16d nails on each side of the splice.
- 5.
Gravity loads carried at the end of cantilevered joists are limited to uniform wall and roof loads and the reactions from headers having a span of 8 feet (2438 mm) or less.
- 1.
- 2.
Lateral support of roofs and floors. Conditions where a section of floor or roof is not laterally supported by shear walls or braced wall lines on all edges.
Exception: Portions of floors that do not support shear walls, braced wall panels above, or roofs shall be permitted to extend not more than 6 feet (1829 mm) beyond a shear wall or braced wall line.
- 3.
Shear wall or braced wall offsets in plane. Conditions where the end of a braced wall panel occurs over an opening in the wall below and extends more than 1 foot (305 mm) horizontally past the edge of the opening. This provision is applicable to shear walls and braced wall panels offset in plane and to braced wall panels offset out of plane in accordance with the exception to Item 1.
Exception: For wood light-frame wall construction, one end of a braced wall panel shall be permitted to extend more than 1 foot (305 mm) over an opening not more than 8 feet (2438 mm) in width in the wall below provided that the opening includes a header in accordance with all of the following:
- 1.
- 2.
The header is composed of:
- 2.1.
Not less than one 2 × 12 or two 2 × 10 for an opening not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) wide.
- 2.2.
Not less than two 2 × 12 or three 2 × 10 for an opening not more than 6 feet (1829 mm) in width.
- 2.3.
Not less than three 2 × 12 or four 2 × 10 for an opening not more than 8 feet (2438 mm) in width.
- 2.1.
- 3.
The entire length of the braced wall panel does not occur over an opening in the wall below.
- 4.
Floor and roof opening. Conditions where an opening in a floor or roof exceeds the lesser of 12 feet (3658 mm) or 50 percent of the least floor or roof dimension.
- 5.
Floor level offset. Conditions where portions of a floor level are vertically offset.
- 6.
Perpendicular shear wall and wall bracing. Conditions where shear walls and braced wall lines do not occur in two perpendicular directions.
- 7.
Wall bracing in stories containing masonry or concrete construction. Conditions where stories above grade plane are partially or completely braced by wood wall framing in accordance with Section R602 or cold-formed steel wall framing in accordance with Section R603 include masonry or concrete construction. Where this irregularity applies, the entire story shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice.
Exception: Fireplaces, chimneys and masonry veneer in accordance with this code.
- 8.
Hillside light-frame construction. Conditions in which all of the following apply:
- 8.1.
The grade slope exceeds 1 unit vertical in 5 units horizontal where averaged across the full length of any side of the building.
- 8.2.
The tallest cripple wall clear height exceeds 7 feet (2134 mm), or where a post and beam system occurs at the building perimeter, the post and beam system tallest post clear height exceeds 7 feet (2134 mm).
- 8.3.
- 8.1.
Where Item 8 is applicable, design in accordance with accepted engineering practice shall be provided for the floor immediately above the cripple walls or post and beam system and all structural elements and connections from this diaphragm down to and including connections to the foundation and design of the foundation to transfer lateral loads from the framing above.
Exception: Light-frame construction in which the lowest framed floor is supported directly on concrete or masonry walls over the full length of all sides except the downhill side of the building need not be considered an irregular building under Item 8.
R301.2.2.7 Height limitations.
Wood-framed buildings shall be limited to three stories above grade plane or the limits given in Table R602.10.3(3). Wood-framed buildings in seismic design category D2 exceeding two stories shall be designed for wind and seismic loads in accordance with accepted engineering practice. Cold-formed steel-framed buildings shall be limited to less than or equal to three stories above grade plane in accordance with AISI S230. Mezzanines as defined in Section R202 that comply with Section R314 shall not be considered as stories. Structural insulated panel buildings shall be limited to two stories above grade plane.
R301.2.2.10 Seismic restraint of appliances and equipment.
In Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 and in townhouses in seismic design category C, appliances and equipment that are designed to be fixed in position shall be supported and braced or anchored to the structure in accordance with the component manufacturer’s recommendations or per Section R301.2.2.10.1.
Exceptions: Seismic support, bracing and anchorage are not required for the following:
- 1.
Suspended mechanical ducts, electrical conduit, automatic sprinkler systems and plumbing systems.
- 2.
Where the appliance or equipment is bearing on an elevated floor or roof and the housing height is not greater than 1.5 times the width of the housing base in either direction.
- 3.
Where the installed weight of a suspended appliance or equipment is 50 pounds (22.7 kg) or less.
- 4.
Where the installed weight is 400 pounds (181.4 kg) or less and the bottom of the appliance or equipment is 4 feet (1219 mm) or less above the adjacent floor level.
Supports, bracing and anchorage of appliances and equipment in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2, and in townhouses in seismic design category C, shall resist a horizontal force equal to one-third times the operating weight of the component, acting in any direction. Bracing shall comply with the following:
- 1.
Components supported at the base shall be braced with strapping at points within the upper one-third of the component’s vertical dimensions, or the component anchorage shall be designed to resist overturning.
- 2.
Components suspended from the structure shall be braced to the structure using either flexible or rigid bracing. Flexible bracing such as wires or straps shall be provided in each of the four orthogonal directions. Rigid bracing such as struts or bars may be provided in two orthogonal directions.
R301.2.3 Snow loads.
Ground snow loads shall be determined in accordance with Figure R301.2(3) or shall be determined in accordance in with Section 1608 of the International Building Code. Wood-framed construction, cold-formed, steel-framed construction and masonry and concrete construction, and structural insulated panel construction in regions with allowable stress design ground snow loads, pg(asd), 70 pounds per square foot (3.35 kPa) or less, shall be in accordance with Chapters 5, 6 and 8. Buildings in regions with allowable stress design ground snow loads, pg(asd), greater than 70 pounds per square foot (3.35 kPa) shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice.
R301.2.4 Floodplain construction.
Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in flood hazard areas as established in Table R301.2, and substantial improvement and repair of substantial damage of buildings and structures located in whole or in part in flood hazard areas, shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Section R306. Buildings and structures that are located in more than one flood hazard area, including A Zones, Coastal A Zones and V Zones, shall comply with the provisions associated with the most restrictive flood hazard area. Buildings and structures located in whole or in part in identified floodways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with ASCE 24.
R301.3 Story height.
The wind and seismic provisions of this code shall apply to buildings with story heights not exceeding the following:
- 1.
For wood wall framing, the story height shall not exceed 11 feet 7 inches (3531 mm) and the laterally unsupported bearing wall stud height permitted by Table R602.3(5).
Exception: A story height not exceeding 13 feet 7 inches (4140 mm) is permitted provided that the maximum wall stud clear height does not exceed 12 feet (3658 mm), the wall studs are in accordance with Exception 2 or 3 of Section R602.3.1 or an engineered design is provided for the wall framing members, and wall bracing for the building is in accordance with Section R602.10. Studs shall be laterally supported at the top and bottom plate in accordance with Section R602.3.
- 2.
For cold-formed steel wall framing, the story height shall be not more than 11 feet 7 inches (3531 mm) and the unsupported bearing wall stud height shall be not more than 10 feet (3048 mm).
- 3.
For masonry walls, the story height shall be not more than 13 feet 7 inches (4140 mm) and the bearing wall clear height shall be not more than 12 feet (3658 mm).
Exception: An additional 8 feet (2438 mm) of bearing wall clear height is permitted for gable end walls.
- 4.
- 5.
For walls other than wood-framed walls, individual walls or wall studs shall be permitted to exceed these limits as permitted by Chapter 6, provided that the story heights of this section are not exceeded. An engineered design shall be provided for the wall or wall framing members where the limits of Chapter 6 are exceeded. Where the story height limits of this section are exceeded, the design of the building, or the noncompliant portions thereof, to resist wind and seismic loads shall be in accordance with the International Building Code.
R301.4 Dead load.
The actual weights of materials and construction shall be used for determining dead load with consideration for the dead load of fixed service equipment.
USE | UNIFORM LOAD (psf) | CONCENTRATED LOAD (lb) |
Uninhabitable attics without storageb | 10 | — |
Uninhabitable attics with limited storageb, g | 20 | — |
Habitable attics and attics served with fixed stairs | 30 | — |
Balconies (exterior) and deckse | 40 | — |
Fire escapes | 40 | — |
Guards | — | 200h, i |
Guard in-fill componentsf | — | 50h |
Handraild | — | 200h |
Passenger vehicle garages | 50 | 2,000a |
Areas other than sleeping areas | 40 | — |
Sleeping areas | 30 | — |
Stairs | 40c | 300c |
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 square inch = 645 mm2, 1 pound = 4.45 N.
- a.
Elevated garage floors shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 2,000-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 4 1/2 inches by 4 1/2 inches, whichever produces the greater stresses.
- b.
Uninhabitable attics without storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is not more than 42 inches, or where there are not two or more adjacent trusses with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses. This live load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirements.
- c.
Individual stair treads shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 300-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 2 inches by 2 inches, whichever produces the greater stresses.
- d.
A single concentrated load applied in any direction at any point along the top. For a guard not required to serve as a handrail, the load need not be applied to the top element of the guard in a direction parallel to such element.
- e.
- f.
Guard in-fill components (all those except the handrail), balusters and panel fillers shall be designed to withstand a horizontally applied normal load of 50 pounds on an area equal to 1 square foot. This load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirement.
- g.
Uninhabitable attics with limited storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is 42 inches or greater, or where there are two or more adjacent trusses with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses.
The live load need only be applied to those portions of the joists or truss bottom chords where all of the following conditions are met:
- 1.
The attic area is accessed from an opening not less than 20 inches in width by 30 inches in length that is located where the clear height in the attic is not less than 30 inches.
- 2.
The slopes of the joists or truss bottom chords are not greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal.
- 3.
Required insulation depth is less than the joist or truss bottom chord member depth.
The remaining portions of the joists or truss bottom chords shall be designed for a uniformly distributed concurrent live load of not less than 10 pounds per square foot.
- 1.
- h.
Glazing used in handrail assemblies and guards shall be designed with a load adjustment factor of 4. The load adjustment factor shall be applied to each of the concentrated loads applied to the top of the rail, and to the load on the in-fill components. These loads shall be determined independent of one another, and loads are assumed not to occur with any other live load.
- i.
Where the top of a guard system is not required to serve as a handrail, the single concentrated load shall be applied at any point along the top, in the vertical downward direction and in the horizontal direction away from the walking surface. Where the top of a guard is also serving as the handrail, a single concentrated load shall be applied in any direction at any point along the top. Concentrated loads shall not be applied concurrently.
R301.6 Roof load.
The roof shall be designed for the live load indicated in Table R301.6 or the ground snow load indicated in Table R301.2, whichever is greater.
ROOF SLOPE | TRIBUTARY LOADED AREA IN SQUARE FEET FOR ANY STRUCTURAL MEMBER | ||
0 to 200 | 201 to 600 | Over 600 | |
Flat or rise less than 4 inches per foot (1:3) | 20 | 16 | 12 |
Rise 4 inches per foot (1:3) to less than 12 inches per foot (1:1) | 16 | 14 | 12 |
Rise 12 inches per foot (1:1) and greater | 12 | 12 | 12 |
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 inch per foot = 83.3 mm/m.
R301.7 Deflection.
The allowable deflection of any structural member under the live load listed in Sections R301.5 and R301.6 or wind loads determined by Section R301.2.1 shall not exceed the values in Table R301.7.
STRUCTURAL MEMBER | ALLOWABLE DEFLECTION |
Rafters having slopes greater than 3:12 with finished ceiling not attached to rafters | L/180 |
Interior walls and partitions | H/180 |
Floors | L/360 |
Ceilings with brittle finishes (including plaster and stucco) | L/360 |
Ceilings with flexible finishes (including gypsum board) | L/240 |
All other structural members excluding guards and handrails | L/240 |
Exterior walls—wind loadsa with plaster or stucco finish | H/360 |
Exterior walls—wind loadsa with other brittle finishes | H/240 |
Exterior walls—wind loadsa with flexible finishes | H/120d |
Lintels supporting masonry veneer wallse | L/600 |
Note: L = span length, H = span height.
- a.
- b.
For cantilever members, L shall be taken as twice the length of the cantilever.
- c.
For aluminum structural members or panels used in roofs or walls of sunroom additions or patio covers, not supporting edge of glass or sandwich panels, the total load deflection shall not exceed L/60. For continuous aluminum structural members supporting edge of glass, the total load deflection shall not exceed L/175 for each glass lite or L/60 for the entire length of the member, whichever is more stringent. For sandwich panels used in roofs or walls of sunroom additions or patio covers, the total load deflection shall not exceed L/120.
- d.
Deflection for exterior walls with interior gypsum board finish shall be limited to an allowable deflection of H/180.
- e.
R301.8 Nominal sizes.
For the purposes of this code, dimensions of lumber specified shall be deemed to be nominal dimensions unless specifically designated as actual dimensions.
Section R302 Fire-Resistant Construction
R302.1 Exterior walls.
Construction, projections, openings and penetrations of exterior walls of dwellings, townhouses and accessory buildings shall comply with Table R302.1(1) based on fire separation distance; or dwellings and townhouses equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with NFPA 13D shall comply with Table R302.1(2) based on fire separation distance.
For the purposes of determining fire separation distance, dwellings and townhouses on the same lot shall be assumed to have an imaginary line between them. Where a new dwelling or townhouse is to be erected on the same lot as an existing dwelling or townhouse, the location of the assumed imaginary line with relation to the existing dwelling or townhouse shall be such that the existing dwelling or townhouse meets requirements of this section.
Where a lot line exists between adjacent townhouse units, fire separation distance of exterior walls shall be measured to the lot line. Where a lot line does not exist between adjacent townhouse units, an imaginary line shall be assumed between the adjacent townhouse units and fire separation distance of exterior walls shall be measured to the imaginary line. Fire separation distance and requirements of Section R302.1 shall not apply to walls separating townhouse units that are required by Section R302.2.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Walls, projections, openings or penetrations in walls perpendicular to the line used to determine the fire separation distance.
- 2.
Walls of individual dwelling units and their accessorybuildings located on the same lot.
- 3.
Detached tool sheds and storage sheds, playhouses and similar structures exempted from permits are not required to provide wall protection based on location on the lot. Projections beyond the exterior wall shall not extend over the lot line.
- 4.
Detached garages accessory to a dwelling unit located within 2 feet (610 mm) of a lot line are permitted to have roof eave projections not exceeding 4 inches (102 mm).
- 5.
Foundation vents installed in compliance with this code are permitted.
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. NA = Not Applicable.
- a.
The fire-resistance rating shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 hours on the underside of the eave overhang if fireblocking is provided from the wall top plate to the underside of the roof sheathing.
- b.
The fire-resistance rating shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 hours on the underside of the rake overhang where vent openings that communicate with the attic are not installed in the overhang or gable wall.
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
NA = Not Applicable.
- a.
For residential subdivisions where all dwellings and townhouses are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section P2904, the fire separation distance for exterior walls not fire-resistance rated and for fire-resistance-rated projections shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 feet, and unlimited unprotected openings and penetrations shall be permitted, where the adjoining lot provides an open setback yard that is 6 feet or more in width on the opposite side of the property line.
- b.
The fire-resistance rating shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 hours on the underside of the eave overhang if fireblocking is provided from the wall top plate to the underside of the roof sheathing.
- c.
The fire-resistance rating shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 hours on the underside of the rake overhang where vent openings that communicate with the attic are not installed in the overhang or gable wall.
R302.2 Townhouses.
Each townhouse shall be considered a separate building and shall be separated by fire-resistance-rated wall assemblies meeting the requirements of Section R302.1 for exterior walls.
Exception: A common 2-hour fire-resistance rated wall assembly tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 is permitted for townhouses, if such walls do not contain plumbing or mechanical equipment, ducts or vents in the cavity of the common wall. The wall shall be rated for fire exposure from both sides and shall extend to and be tight against exterior walls and the underside of the roof sheathing. Electrical installations shall be installed in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC). Penetrations of electrical outlet boxes shall be in accordance with Section R302.4.
R302.2.1 Double walls.
This section has been deleted.
➡
R302.2.2 Common walls.
This section has been deleted.
➡
R302.2.3 Continuity.
The fire-resistance-rated wall or assembly separating townhouse units shall be continuous from the foundation to the underside of the roof sheathing, roof deck or slab. The fire-resistance rating shall extend the full length of the wall or assembly, including wall extensions through and separating attached enclosed accessory structures.
R302.2.4 Parapets for townhouses.
Parapets constructed in accordance with Section R302.2.5 shall be constructed for townhouses as an extension of exterior walls or common walls separating townhouse units in accordance with the following:
- 1.
Where roof surfaces adjacent to the wall or walls are at the same elevation, the parapet shall extend not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above the roof decks.
- 2.
Where roof decks adjacent to the wall or walls are at different elevations and the higher roof deck is not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the lower roof deck, the parapet shall extend not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above the lower roof deck.
Exception: A parapet is not required in the preceding two cases where the roof covering complies with a minimum Class C rating as tested in accordance with ASTM E108 or UL 790 and the roof deck or sheathing is of noncombustible materials or fire-retardant-treated wood for a distance of 4 feet (1219 mm) on each side of the wall or walls, or one layer of 5/8-inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum board is installed directly beneath the roof deck or sheathing, supported by not less than nominal 2-inch (51 mm) ledgers attached to the sides of the roof framing members, for a distance of not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) on each side of the wall or walls and any openings or penetrations in the roof deck are not within 4 feet (1219 mm) of the common walls. Fire-retardant-treated wood shall meet the requirements of Sections R302.15 and R803.2.1.2.
- 3.
A parapet is not required where roof surfaces adjacent to the wall or walls are at different elevations and the higher roof deck is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the lower roof deck. The common wall construction from the lower roof deck to the underside of the higher roof deck shall have not less than a 1-hour fire-resistance rating. The wall shall be rated for exposure from both sides. Openings shall not be permitted in the wall.
R302.2.5 Parapet construction.
Parapets shall have the same fire-resistance rating as that required for the supporting wall or walls. On any side adjacent to a roof surface, the parapet shall have noncombustible faces for the uppermost 18 inches (457 mm), to include counterflashing and coping materials. Where the roof slopes toward a parapet at slopes greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (16.7 percent slope), the parapet shall extend to the same height as any portion of the roof within a distance of 3 feet (914 mm), and the height shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm).
R302.2.6 Structural independence.
Each townhouse unit shall be structurally independent.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Foundations supporting exterior walls or common walls.
- 2.
Structural roof and wall sheathing from each unit fastened to the common wall framing.
- 3.
Nonstructural wall and roof coverings.
- 4.
Flashing at termination of roof covering over common wall.
- 5.
This exception has been deleted.
➡
- 6.
Townhouse units protected by an automatic sprinkler system complying with Section P2904 or NFPA 13D.
R302.3 Two-family dwellings.
Dwelling units in two-family dwellings shall be separated from each other in accordance with Sections 302.3.1 through 302.3.5, regardless of whether a lot line exists between two dwelling units.
R302.3.1 Dwelling unit separation.
The two dwelling units shall be separated by fire-resistance rated assemblies that are vertical, horizontal, or a combination thereof.
R302.3.2 Fire-resistance rating.
Vertical and horizontal assemblies separating dwelling units shall have a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour, or a fire-resistance rating of one-half hour in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section P2904. Fire-resistance ratings shall be based on testing in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263, or an analytical method in accordance with Section 703.2.2 of the International Building Code.
R302.3.3 Continuity.
Vertical and horizontal assemblies separating dwelling units shall be constructed in a manner that provides continuity of the fire-resistance rating between the dwelling units.
R302.3.3.2 Vertical assemblies.
Vertical assemblies separating dwelling units shall extend to and be tight against any combination of the following:
- 1.
The foundation.
- 2.
- 3.
The underside of roof sheathing.
- 4.
The ceiling beneath an uninhabitable attic, provided that the ceiling is constructed using not less than 5/8-inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum board, an attic draft stop constructed as specified in Section R302.12.1 is provided above and along the vertical assembly terminating at the ceiling, and the structural framing supporting the ceiling is protected by not less than 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board or equivalent.
R302.3.4 Supporting construction.
Vertical and horizontal assemblies separating dwelling units shall be supported by construction having an equal or greater fire-resistance rating.
R302.3.5 Vertically stacked dwelling units.
Where one dwelling unit in a two-family dwelling is located above the other and an automatic sprinkler system complying with Section P2904 is not provided in both dwelling units, both of the following shall apply:
- 1.
Horizontal and vertical assemblies separating the dwelling units, including an interior stairway serving as the means of egress for the upper dwelling unit, shall be constructed in a manner that limits the transfer of smoke.
- 2.
A notification appliance connected to smoke alarms in the other dwelling unit shall be provided in each dwelling unit.
R302.3.6 Shared accessory rooms.
Shared accessory rooms shall be separated from each individual dwelling unit in accordance with Table R302.3.6. Openings between the shared accessory room and dwelling unit shall comply with Section R302.3.6.1. Attachment of gypsum board shall comply with Table R702.3.5.
SEPARATION | MATERIAL |
From the dwelling units and attics | Not less than 1/2-inch gypsum board or equivalent applied to the accessory room side wall |
From habitable rooms above or below the shared accessory room | Not less than 5/8-inch Type X gypsum board or equivalent |
Structures supporting floor/ceiling assemblies used for separation required by this section | Not less than 1/2-inch gypsum board or equivalent |
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
R302.3.6.1 Opening protection.
Openings from a shared accessory room or area directly into a room used for sleeping purposes shall not be permitted. Other openings between the shared accessory room or area and dwelling units shall be equipped with solid wood doors not less than 1 3/8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, solid or honeycomb core steel doors not less than 1 3/8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, or a fire door assembly with a 20-minute fire-protection rating, equipped with a self-closing or automatic-closing device.
R302.3.6.2 Duct penetration.
Ducts penetrating the walls or ceilings separating the dwelling from the shared accessory room shall be constructed of sheet steel not less than No. 26 gage (0.48 mm) or other approved material and shall not have openings into the shared accessory room.
R302.4 Dwelling unit rated penetrations.
Penetrations of wall or floor-ceiling assemblies required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section R302.2 or R302.3 shall be protected in accordance with this section.
R302.4.1 Through penetrations.
Through penetrations of fire-resistance-rated wall or floor assemblies shall comply with Section R302.4.1.1 or R302.4.1.2.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Where the penetrating items are steel, ferrous or copper pipes, tubes or conduits, the annular space shall be protected as follows:
- 1.1.
In concrete or masonry wall or floor assemblies, concrete, grout or mortar shall be permitted where installed to the full thickness of the wall or floor assembly or the thickness required to maintain the fire-resistance rating, provided that both of the following are complied with:
- 1.1.1.
The nominal diameter of the penetrating item is not more than 6 inches (152 mm).
- 1.1.2.
The area of the opening through the wall does not exceed 144 square inches (92 900 mm2).
- 1.1.1.
- 1.2.
The material used to fill the annular space shall prevent the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton waste where subjected to ASTM E119 or UL 263 time temperature fire conditions under a positive pressure differential of not less than 0.01 inch of water (3 Pa) at the location of the penetration for the time period equivalent to the fire-resistance rating of the construction penetrated.
- 1.1.
- 2.
The annular space created by the penetration of water-filled fire sprinkler piping, provided that the annular space is filled using a material complying with Item 1.2 of Exception 1.
R302.4.1.1 Fire-resistance-rated assembly.
Penetrations shall be installed as tested in the approved fire-resistance-rated assembly.
R302.4.1.2 Penetration firestop system.
Penetrations shall be protected by an approved penetration firestop system installed as tested in accordance with ASTM E814 or UL 1479, with a positive pressure differential of not less than 0.01 inch of water (3 Pa) and shall have an F rating of not less than the required fire-resistance rating of the wall or floor-ceiling assembly penetrated.
R302.4.2 Membrane penetrations.
Membrane penetrations shall comply with Section R302.4.1. Where walls are required to have a fire-resistance rating, recessed fixtures shall be installed so that the required fire-resistance rating will not be reduced.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Membrane penetrations of not more than 2-hour fire-resistance-rated walls and partitions by steel electrical boxes that do not exceed 16 square inches (0.0103 m2) in area provided that the aggregate area of the openings through the membrane does not exceed 100 square inches (0.0645 m2) in any 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of wall area. The annular space between the wall membrane and the box shall not exceed 1/8 inch (3.1 mm). Such boxes on opposite sides of the wall shall be separated by one of the following:
- 1.1.
By a horizontal distance of not less than 24 inches (610 mm) where the wall or partition is constructed with individual noncommunicating stud cavities.
- 1.2.
By a horizontal distance of not less than the depth of the wall cavity where the wall cavity is filled with cellulose loose-fill, rockwool or slag mineral wool insulation.
- 1.3.
- 1.4.
By protecting both boxes with listed putty pads.
- 1.5.
By other listed materials and methods.
- 1.1.
- 2.
Membrane penetrations by listed electrical boxes of any materials provided that the boxes have been tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing. The annular space between the wall membrane and the box shall not exceed 1/8 inch (3.1 mm) unless listed otherwise. Such boxes on opposite sides of the wall shall be separated by one of the following:
- 2.1.
By the horizontal distance specified in the listing of the electrical boxes.
- 2.2.
- 2.3.
By protecting both boxes with listed putty pads.
- 2.4.
By other listed materials and methods.
- 2.1.
- 3.
The annular space created by the penetration of a fire sprinkler or water-filled fire sprinkler piping, provided that the annular space is covered by a metal escutcheon plate.
- 4.
Ceiling membrane penetrations by listed luminaires or by luminaires protected with listed materials that have been tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing.
R302.5 Dwelling unit garage opening and penetration protection.
Openings and penetrations through the walls or ceilings separating the dwelling unit from the garage shall be in accordance with Sections R302.5.1 through R302.5.3.
R302.5.1 Opening protection.
Openings from a private garage directly into a room used for sleeping purposes shall not be permitted. Other openings between the garage and residence shall be equipped with solid wood doors not less than 1 3/8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, solid or honeycomb-core steel doors not less than 1 3/8 inches (35 mm) thick, or 20-minute fire-rated doors.
R302.5.2 Duct penetration.
Ducts in the garage and ducts penetrating the walls or ceilings separating the dwelling unit from the garage shall be constructed of a minimum No. 26 gage (0.48 mm) sheet steel or other approved material and shall not have openings into the garage.
R302.6 Dwelling unit garage fire separation.
The garage shall be separated as required by Table R302.6. Openings in garage walls shall comply with Section R302.5. Attachment of gypsum board shall comply with Table R702.3.5. The wall separation provisions of Table R302.6 shall not apply to garage walls that are perpendicular to the adjacent dwelling unit wall.
SEPARATION | MATERIAL |
From the dwelling unit and attics | Not less than 1/2-inch gypsum board or equivalent applied to the garage side |
From portions of the dwelling unit above the garage | Not less than 5/8-inch Type X gypsum board or equivalent |
Structure(s) supporting floor/ceiling assemblies used for separation required by this sectiona | Not less than 1/2-inch gypsum board or equivalent |
Garages located less than 3 feet from a dwelling unit on the same lot | Not less than 1/2-inch gypsum board or equivalent applied to the interior side of exterior walls that are within this area |
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
- a.
Separation of floor/ceiling assemblies is not required in garages protected by an automatic sprinkler system that meets the following criteria:
- 1.
The sprinkler system shall be connected to a reliable water supply system with or without an automatic operated pump.
- 2.
A piping system serving both sprinkler and domestic needs shall be acceptable.
- 3.
Ordinary-temperature-rated residential or quick response sprinklers (135°F to 170°F [57°C to 77°C]) with a 1/2-inch (13 mm) orifice shall be installed.
- 4.
The minimum operating pressure of any residential or quick response sprinkler shall be 7 psi (0.5 bar).
- 5.
- 6.
The maximum area protected by a single sprinkler head shall not exceed 144 ft2(13.4 m2).
- 7.
The maximum distance between sprinklers shall not exceed 12 feet (3.7 m).
- 8.
The maximum distance to a wall or partition shall not exceed 6 feet (1.8 m).
- 9.
The minimum distance between sprinklers within a compartment shall be 8 feet (2.4 m).
- 10.
Pendent and upright sprinkler heads shall be positioned so that the deflectors are within 1 to 4 inches (25.4 to 102 mm) below framing.
- 11.
Sprinkler heads shall be located on a looped piping configuration.
- 12.
Minimum pipe size, including that for copper, listed chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), and polybutylene (PB) piping shall be 3/4-inch (19 mm).
- 13.
Garage doors in the open position shall not interfere with the operation of a sprinkler head.
- 14.
- 1.
R302.7 Under-stair protection.
Enclosed space under stairs that is accessed by a door or access panel shall have walls, under-stair surface and any soffits protected on the enclosed side with 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board.
R302.9 Flame spread index and smoke-developed index for wall and ceiling finishes.
Flame spread and smoke-developed indices for wall and ceiling finishes shall be in accordance with Sections R302.9.1 through R302.9.4.
R302.9.1 Flame spread index.
Wall and ceiling finishes shall have a flame spread index of not greater than 200.
Exception: Flame spread index requirements for finishes shall not apply to trim defined as picture molds, chair rails, baseboards and handrails; to doors and windows or their frames; or to materials that are less than 1/28 inch (0.91 mm) in thickness cemented to the surface of walls or ceilings if these materials exhibit flame spread index values not greater than those of paper of this thickness cemented to a noncombustible backing.
R302.9.2 Smoke-developed index.
Wall and ceiling finishes shall have a smoke-developed index of not greater than 450.
R302.9.4 Alternative test method.
As an alternative to having a flame spread index of not greater than 200 and a smoke-developed index of not greater than 450 where tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, wall and ceiling finishes shall be permitted to be tested in accordance with NFPA 286. Materials tested in accordance with NFPA 286 shall meet the following criteria:
The interior finish shall comply with the following:
- 1.
During the 40 kW exposure, flames shall not spread to the ceiling.
- 2.
The flame shall not spread to the outer extremity of the sample on any wall or ceiling.
- 3.
- 4.
The peak heat release rate throughout the test shall not exceed 800 kW.
- 5.
The total smoke released throughout the test shall not exceed 1,000 m2.
R302.10 Flame spread index and smoke-developed index for insulation.
Flame spread and smoke-developed index for insulation shall be in accordance with Sections R302.10.1 through R302.10.4.
R302.10.1 Insulation.
Insulating materials installed within floor-ceiling assemblies, roof-ceiling assemblies, wall assemblies, crawl spaces and attics shall comply with the requirements of this section. They shall exhibit a flame spread index not to exceed 25 and a smoke-developed index not to exceed 450 where tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Insulating materials, where tested in accordance with the requirements of this section, shall include facings, where used, such as vapor retarders, vapor permeable membranes and similar coverings.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Where such materials are installed in concealed spaces, the flame spread index and smoke-developed index limitations do not apply to the facings, provided that the facing is installed in substantial contact with the unexposed surface of the ceiling, floor or wall finish.
- 2.
Cellulose fiber loose-fill insulation that is not spray applied and that complies with the requirements of Section R302.10.3 shall not be required to meet the flame spread index requirements but shall be required to meet a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 where tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2.
- 3.
R302.11 Fireblocking.
In combustible construction, fireblocking shall be provided to cut off both vertical and horizontal concealed draft openings and to form an effective fire barrier between stories, and between a top story and the roof space.
Fireblocking shall be provided in wood-framed construction in the following locations:
- 1.
In concealed spaces of stud walls and partitions, including furred spaces and parallel rows of studs or staggered studs, as follows:
- 1.1.
Vertically at the ceiling and floor levels.
- 1.2.
Horizontally at intervals not exceeding 10 feet (3048 mm).
- 1.1.
- 2.
At interconnections between concealed vertical and horizontal spaces such as occur at soffits, drop ceilings and cove ceilings.
- 3.
- 4.
- 5.
- 6.
Fireblocking of cornices of a two-family dwelling is required at the line of dwelling unit separation.
R302.11.1 Fireblocking materials.
Except as provided in Section R302.11, Item 4, fireblocking shall consist of the following materials.
- 1.
Two-inch (51 mm) nominal lumber.
- 2.
Two thicknesses of 1-inch (25.4 mm) nominal lumber with broken lap joints.
- 3.
One thickness of 23/32-inch (18.3 mm) wood structural panels with joints backed by 23/32-inch (18.3 mm) wood structural panels.
- 4.
One thickness of 3/4-inch (19.1 mm) particleboard with joints backed by 3/4-inch (19.1 mm) particleboard.
- 5.
One-half-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board.
- 6.
One-quarter-inch (6.4 mm) cement-based millboard.
- 7.
Batts or blankets of mineral wool or glass fiber or other approved materials installed in such a manner as to be securely retained in place.
- 8.
R302.11.1.1 Batts or blankets of mineral or glass fiber.
Batts or blankets of mineral or glass fiber or other approved nonrigid materials shall be permitted for compliance with the 10-foot (3048 mm) horizontal fireblocking in walls constructed using parallel rows of studs or staggered studs.
R302.11.1.2 Unfaced fiberglass.
Unfaced fiberglass batt insulation used as fireblocking shall fill the entire cross section of the wall cavity to a height of not less than 16 inches (406 mm) measured vertically. Where piping, conduit or similar obstructions are encountered, the insulation shall be packed tightly around the obstruction.
R302.11.1.3 Loose-fill insulation material.
Loose-fill insulation material shall not be used as a fireblock unless specifically tested in the form and manner intended for use to demonstrate its ability to remain in place and to retard the spread of fire and hot gases.
R302.11.2 Fireblocking integrity.
The integrity of fireblocks shall be maintained.
R302.12 Draftstopping.
In combustible construction where there is usable space both above and below the concealed space of a floor-ceiling assembly, draftstops shall be installed so that the area of the concealed space does not exceed 1,000 square feet (92.9 m2). Draftstopping shall divide the concealed space into approximately equal areas. Where the assembly is enclosed by a floor membrane above and a ceiling membrane below, draftstopping shall be provided in floor-ceiling assemblies under the following circumstances:
- 1.
Ceiling is suspended under the floor framing.
- 2.
Floor framing is constructed of truss-type open-web or perforated members.
R302.12.1 Materials.
Draftstopping materials shall be not less than 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board, 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) wood structural panels or other approved materials adequately supported. Draftstopping shall be installed parallel to the floor framing members unless otherwise approved by the building official. The integrity of the draftstops shall be maintained.
R302.13 Fire protection of floors.
This section has been deleted.
➡
R302.14 Combustible insulation clearance.
Combustible insulation shall be separated not less than 3 inches (76 mm) from recessed luminaires, fan motors and other heat-producing devices.
Exception: Where heat-producing devices are listed for lesser clearances, combustible insulation complying with the listing requirements shall be separated in accordance with the conditions stipulated in the listing.
Recessed luminaires installed in the building thermal envelope shall meet the requirements of Section N1102.5.4 of this code.
R302.15 Fire-retardant-treated wood.
Fire-retardant-treated wood (FRTW) is any wood product that, when impregnated with chemicals by a pressure process or other means during manufacture, shall have, when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, a listed flame spread index of 25 or less. In addition, the ASTM E84 or UL 723 test shall be continued for an additional 20-minute period and the flame front shall not progress more than 10.5 feet (3200 mm) beyond the center line of the burners at any time during the test.
R302.15.1 Pressure process.
For wood products impregnated with chemicals by a pressure process, the process shall be performed in closed vessels under pressures not less than 50 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (344.7 kPa).
R302.15.2 Other means during manufacture.
For wood products impregnated with chemicals by other means during manufacture, the treatment shall be an integral part of the manufacturing process of the wood product. The treatment shall provide permanent protection to all surfaces of the wood product. The use of paints, coating, stains or other surface treatments is not an approved method of protection as required by this section.
R302.15.3 Testing.
For fire-retardant-treated wood products, the front and back faces of the wood product shall be tested in accordance with and produce the results required in Section R302.15.
R302.15.3.1 Fire testing of fire-retardant-treated wood structural panels.
Fire-retardant-treated wood structural panels shall be tested with a ripped or cut longitudinal gap of 1/8 inch (3.2 mm).
302.15.4 Labeling.
In addition to the labels required by Section R802.1.1 for sawn lumber and Section R803.2.1 for wood structural panels, each piece of fire-retardant-treated lumber and fire-retardant-treated wood structural panel shall be labeled. The label shall contain:
- 1.
- 2.
Identification of the treating manufacturer.
- 3.
The name of the fire-retardant treatment.
- 4.
The species of wood treated.
- 5.
Flame spread index and smoke-developed index.
- 6.
Method of drying after treatment.
- 7.
- 8.
R302.15.5 Strength adjustments.
Design values for untreated lumber and wood structural panels as specified in Section R802.1 shall be adjusted for fire-retardant-treated wood. Adjustments to design values shall be based on an approved method of investigation that takes into consideration the effects of the anticipated temperature and humidity to which the fire-retardant-treated wood will be subjected, the type of treatment and redrying procedures.
R302.15.6 Fire-retardant-treated wood structural panels.
The effect of treatment and the method of redrying after treatment, and exposure to high temperatures and high humidities on the flexure properties of fire-retardant-treated softwood plywood shall be determined in accordance with ASTM D5516. The test data developed by ASTM D5516 shall be used to develop adjustment factors, maximum loads and spans, or both for untreated plywood design values in accordance with ASTM D6305. Each manufacturer shall publish the allowable maximum loads and spans for service as floor and roof sheathing for their treatment.
R302.15.7 Fire-retardant-treated lumber.
For each species of wood treated, the effect of the treatment and the method of redrying after treatment and exposure to high temperatures and high humidities on the allowable design properties of fire-retardant-treated lumber shall be determined in accordance with ASTM D5664. The test data developed by ASTM D5664 shall be used to develop modification factors for use at or near room temperature and at elevated temperatures and humidity in accordance with ASTM D6841. Each manufacturer shall publish the modification factors for service at temperatures of not less than 80°F (27°C) and for roof framing. The roof framing modification factors shall take into consideration the climatological location.
R302.15.9 Interior applications.
Interior fire-retardant-treated wood shall have a moisture content of not over 28 percent when tested in accordance with ASTM D3201 procedures at 92 percent relative humidity. Interior fire-retardant-treated wood shall be tested in accordance with Section R302.15.6 or R302.15.7. Interior fire-retardant-treated wood designated as Type A shall be tested in accordance with the provisions of this section.
R302.15.10 Moisture content.
Fire-retardant-treated wood shall be dried to a moisture content of 19 percent or less for fire-retardant-treated lumber and 15 percent or less for fire-retardant-treated wood structural panels before use. For wood kiln dried after treatment (KDAT), the kiln temperatures shall not exceed those used in kiln drying the fire-retardant-treated wood structural panels and fire-retardant-treated lumber submitted for the tests described in Section R302.15.6 for fire-retardant-treated wood structural panels and Section R302.15.7 for fire-retardant-treated lumber.
Section R303 Foam Plastic
R303.1 General.
The provisions of this section shall govern the materials, design, application, construction and installation of foam plastic materials.
R303.2 Labeling and identification.
Packages and containers of foam plastic insulation and foam plastic insulation components delivered to the job site shall bear the label of an approved agency showing the manufacturer’s name, the product listing, product identification and information sufficient to determine that the end use will comply with the requirements.
R303.3 Surface burning characteristics.
Unless otherwise allowed in Section R303.5, foam plastic, or foam plastic cores used as a component in manufactured assemblies, used in building construction shall comply with Section R303.3.1 or R303.3.2. Loose-fill-type foam plastic insulation shall be tested as board stock for the flame spread index and smoke-developed index.
Exception: Spray foam plastic insulation more than 4 inches (102 mm) in thickness shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 where tested at a thickness of 4 inches (102 mm) and at the density intended for use. Such spray foam plastic shall be separated from the interior of a building by 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard or by a material that is tested in accordance with and meets the acceptance criteria of both the Temperature Transmission Fire Test and the Integrity Fire Test of NFPA 275.
R303.3.1 Foam plastic insulation 4 inches thick or less.
Foam plastic insulation installed at 4 inches (102 mm) in thickness or less shall have a flame spread index of not more than 75 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 where tested in the maximum thickness and density intended for use in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.
R303.3.2 Foam plastic insulation more than 4 inches thick.
Foam plastic insulation installed at more than 4 inches (102 mm) in thickness shall have a flame spread index of not more than 75 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 where tested at a thickness of 4 inches (102 mm) in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, provided that the end use is approved in accordance with Section R303.6 using the thickness and density intended for use.
R303.4 Thermal barrier.
Unless otherwise allowed in Section R303.5, foam plastic shall be separated from the interior of a building by an approved thermal barrier of not less than 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard, 23/32-inch (18.2 mm) wood structural panel or a material that is tested in accordance with and meets the acceptance criteria of both the Temperature Transmission Fire Test and the Integrity Fire Test of NFPA 275.
R303.5 Specific requirements.
The following requirements shall apply to these uses of foam plastic unless specifically approved in accordance with Section R303.6 or by other sections of the code or the requirements of Sections R303.2 through R303.4 have been met.
R303.5.1 Masonry or concrete construction.
The thermal barrier specified in Section R303.4 is not required in a masonry or concrete wall, floor or roof where the foam plastic insulation is separated from the interior of the building by not less than a 1-inch (25 mm) thickness of masonry or concrete.
R303.5.2 Roofing.
The thermal barrier specified in Section R303.4 is not required where the foam plastic in a roof assembly or under a roof covering is installed in accordance with the code and the manufacturer’s instructions and is separated from the interior of the building by tongue-and-groove wood planks or wood structural panel sheathing, in accordance with Section R803, that is not less than 15/32 inch (11.9 mm) thick bonded with exterior glue, identified as Exposure 1 and with edges supported by blocking or tongue-and-groove joints or an equivalent material. The smoke-developed index for roof applications shall not be limited.
R303.5.3 Attics.
The thermal barrier specified in Section R303.4 is not required where all of the following apply:
- 1.
- 2.
The space is entered only for purposes of repairs or maintenance.
- 3.
The foam plastic insulation has been tested in accordance with Section R303.6 or the foam plastic insulation is protected against ignition using one of the following ignition barrier materials:
- 3.1.
1 1/2-inch-thick (38 mm) mineral fiber insulation.
- 3.2.
1/4-inch-thick (6.4 mm) wood structural panels.
- 3.3.
3/8-inch (9.5 mm) particleboard.
- 3.4.
1/4-inch (6.4 mm) hardboard.
- 3.5.
3/8-inch (9.5 mm) gypsum board.
- 3.6.
Corrosion-resistant steel having a base metal thickness of 0.016 inch (0.406 mm).
- 3.7.
1 1/2-inch-thick (38 mm) cellulose insulation.
- 3.8.
1/4-inch (6.4 mm) fiber-cement panel, soffit or backer board.
- 3.1.
The ignition barrier is not required where the foam plastic insulation has been tested in accordance with Section R303.6.
R303.5.4 Crawl spaces.
The thermal barrier specified in Section R303.4 is not required where all of the following apply:
- 1.
- 2.
Entry is made only for purposes of repairs or maintenance.
- 3.
The foam plastic insulation has been tested in accordance with Section R303.6 or the foam plastic insulation is protected against ignition using one of the following ignition barrier materials:
- 3.1.
1 1/2-inch-thick (38 mm) mineral fiber insulation.
- 3.2.
1/4-inch-thick (6.4 mm) wood structural panels.
- 3.3.
3/8-inch (9.5 mm) particleboard.
- 3.4.
1/4-inch (6.4 mm) hardboard.
- 3.5.
3/8-inch (9.5 mm) gypsum board.
- 3.6.
Corrosion-resistant steel having a base metal thickness of 0.016 inch (0.406 mm).
- 3.7.
1/4-inch (6.4 mm) fiber-cement panel, soffit or backer board.
- 3.1.
R303.5.7 Foam backer board.
The thermal barrier specified in Section R303.4 is not required where siding backer board foam plastic insulation has a thickness of not more than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) and a potential heat of not more than 2000 Btu per square foot (22 720 kJ/m2) when tested in accordance with NFPA 259 and it complies with one or more of the following:
- 1.
The foam plastic insulation is separated from the interior of the building by not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of mineral fiber insulation.
- 2.
The foam plastic insulation is installed over existing exterior wall finish in conjunction with re-siding.
- 3.
R303.5.8 Re-siding.
The thermal barrier specified in Section R303.4 is not required where the foam plastic insulation is installed over existing exterior wall finish in conjunction with re-siding provided that the foam plastic has a thickness of not more than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) and a potential heat of not more than 2000 Btu per square foot (22 720 kJ/m2) when tested in accordance with NFPA 259.
R303.5.9 Interior trim.
The thermal barrier specified in Section R303.4 is not required for exposed foam plastic interior trim, provided that all of the following are met:
- 1.
The density is not less than 20 pounds per cubic foot (320 kg/m3).
- 2.
The thickness of the trim is not more than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) and the width is not more than 8 inches (204 mm).
- 3.
The interior trim shall not constitute more than 10 percent of the aggregate wall and ceiling area of any room or space.
- 4.
R303.5.11 Sill plates and headers.
Foam plastic spray applied to sill plates and headers or installed in the perimeter joist space without the thermal barrier specified in Section R303.4 shall comply with all of the following:
- 1.
The thickness of the foam plastic shall be not more than 3 1/4 inches (83 mm).
- 2.
The density of the foam plastic shall be in the range of 0.5 to 2.0 pounds per cubic foot (8 to 32 kg/m3).
- 3.
R303.5.12 Sheathing.
Foam plastic insulation used as sheathing shall comply with Section R303.3 and Section R303.4. Where the foam plastic sheathing is exposed to the attic space at a gable or kneewall, the provisions of Section R303.5.3 shall apply. Where foam plastic insulation is used as exterior wall sheathing on framed wall assemblies, it shall comply with Section R303.8.
R303.5.13 Floors.
The thermal barrier specified in Section R303.4 is not required to be installed on the walking surface of a structural floor system that contains foam plastic insulation where the foam plastic is covered by not less than a nominal 1/2-inch-thick (12.7 mm) wood structural panel or equivalent. The thermal barrier specified in Section R303.4 is required on the underside of the structural floor system that contains foam plastic insulation where the underside of the structural floor system is exposed to the interior of the building.
R303.6 Specific approval.
Foam plastic not meeting the requirements of Sections R303.3 through R303.5 shall be specifically approved on the basis of an approved large-scale test reflecting the actual end-use configuration and performed on the finished foam plastic assembly in the maximum thickness intended for use. Assemblies tested shall include seams, joints and other typical details used in the installation of the assembly and shall be tested in the manner intended for use. The approved large-scale test shall comply with one of the following: NFPA 286 with the acceptance criteria of Section R302.9.4, FM 4880, UL 1040 or UL 1715.
R303.8 Wind resistance.
Foam plastic insulation complying with ASTM C578 and ASTM C1289 and used as exterior wall sheathing on framed wall assemblies shall comply with ANSI/ABTG FS 100 for wind pressure resistance unless installed directly over or under a sheathing material that is separately capable of resisting the wind load or otherwise exempted from the scope of ANSI/ABTG FS 100.
Section R304 Protection of Wood and Wood-Based Products Against Decay
R304.1 Location required.
Protection of wood and wood-based products from decay shall be provided in the following locations by the use of naturally durable wood or wood that is preservative-treated in accordance with AWPA U1.
- 1.
In crawl spaces or unexcavated areas located within the periphery of the building foundation, wood joists or the bottom of a wood structural floor where closer than 18 inches (457 mm) to exposed ground, wood girders where closer than 12 inches (305 mm) to exposed ground, and wood columns where closer than 8 inches (204 mm) to exposed ground.
- 2.
Wood framing members, including columns, that rest directly on concrete or masonry exterior foundation walls and are less than 8 inches (203 mm) from the exposed ground.
- 3.
Sills and sleepers on a concrete or masonry slab that is in direct contact with the ground unless separated from such slab by an impervious moisture barrier.
- 4.
The ends of wood girders entering exterior masonry or concrete walls having clearances of less than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) on tops, sides and ends.
- 5.
Wood siding, sheathing and wall framing on the exterior of a building having a clearance of less than 6 inches (152 mm) from the ground or less than 2 inches (51 mm) measured vertically from concrete steps, porch slabs, patio slabs and similar horizontal surfaces exposed to the weather.
- 6.
Wood structural members supporting moisture-permeable floors or roofs that are exposed to the weather, such as concrete or masonry slabs, unless separated from such floors or roofs by an impervious moisture barrier.
- 7.
Wood furring strips or other wood framing members attached directly to the interior of exterior masonry walls or concrete walls below grade except where an approved vapor retarder is applied between the wall and the furring strips or framing members.
- 8.
Portions of wood structural members that form the structural supports of buildings, decks, balconies, porches or similar permanent building appurtenances where those members are exposed to the weather without adequate protection from a roof, eave, overhang or other covering that prevents moisture or water accumulation on the surface or at joints between members.
Exception: Sawn lumber used in structures located in a geographical region where experience has demonstrated that climatic conditions preclude the need to use naturally durable or preservative-treated wood where the structure is exposed to the weather.
- 9.
Wood columns in contact with basement floor slabs unless supported by concrete piers or metal pedestals projecting not less than 1 inch (25 mm) above the concrete floor and separated from the concrete pier by an impervious moisture barrier.
R304.1.2 Ground contact.
All wood in contact with the ground, embedded in concrete in direct contact with the ground or embedded in concrete exposed to the weather that supports permanent structures intended for human occupancy shall be approved pressure-preservative-treated wood suitable for ground contact use, except that untreated wood used entirely below groundwater level or continuously submerged in fresh water shall not be required to be pressure-preservative treated.
R304.2 Quality mark.
Lumber and plywood required to be pressure-preservative treated in accordance with Section R304.1 shall bear the quality mark of an approved inspection agency that maintains continuing supervision, testing and inspection over the quality of the product and that has been approved by an accreditation body that complies with the requirements of the American Lumber Standard Committee treated wood program.
R304.2.1 Required information.
The required quality mark on each piece of pressure-preservative-treated lumber or plywood shall contain the following information:
- 1.
Identification of the treating plant.
- 2.
Type of preservative.
- 3.
The minimum preservative retention.
- 4.
End use for which the product was treated.
- 5.
Standard to which the product was treated.
- 6.
Identity of the approved inspection agency.
- 7.
The designation “Dry,” if applicable.
Exception: Quality marks on lumber less than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness, or lumber less than nominal 1 inch by 5 inches (25 mm by 127 mm) or 2 inches by 4 inches (51 mm by 102 mm) or lumber 36 inches (914 mm) or less in length shall be applied by stamping the faces of exterior pieces or by end labeling not less than 25 percent of the pieces of a bundled unit.
R304.3 Fasteners and connectors in contact with preservative-treated and fire-retardant-treated wood.
Fasteners, including nuts and washers, and connectors in contact with preservative-treated wood and fire-retardant-treated wood shall be in accordance with this section. The coating weights for zinc-coated fasteners shall be in accordance with ASTM A153. The coating weight for zinc-coated nails shall be in accordance with ASTM A153 Class D or ASTM A641 Class 3S. Stainless steel driven fasteners shall be in accordance with the material requirements of ASTM F1667.
R304.3.1 Fasteners for preservative-treated wood.
Fasteners, including nuts and washers, for preservative-treated wood shall be of hot-dipped, zinc-coated galvanized steel, stainless steel, silicon bronze or copper. Staples shall be of stainless steel. Coating types and weights for connectors in contact with preservative-treated wood shall be in accordance with the connector manufacturer’s recommendations. In the absence of manufacturer’s recommendations, not less than ASTM A653 type G185 zinc-coated galvanized steel, or equivalent, shall be used.
Exceptions:
- 1.
One-half-inch diameter (12.7 mm) or greater steel bolts.
- 2.
- 3.
Plain carbon steel fasteners in SBX/DOT and zinc borate preservative-treated wood in an interior, dry environment shall be permitted.
R304.3.3 Fasteners for fire-retardant-treated wood used in exterior applications or wet or damp locations.
Fasteners, including nuts and washers, for fire-retardant-treated wood used in exterior applications or wet or damp locations shall be of hot-dipped, zinc-coated galvanized steel, stainless steel, silicon bronze or copper. Fasteners other than nails, staples and timber rivets shall be permitted to be of mechanically deposited zinc-coated steel with coating weights in accordance with ASTM B695, Class 55 minimum.
R304.3.4 Fasteners for fire-retardant-treated wood used in interior applications.
Fasteners, including nuts and washers, for fire-retardant-treated wood used in interior locations shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. In the absence of the manufacturer’s recommendations, Section R304.3.3 shall apply.
Section R305 Protection Against Subterranean Termites
R305.1 Subterranean termite control methods.
In areas subject to damage from termites as indicated by Table R301.2, protection shall be by one, or a combination, of the following methods:
- 1.
- 2.
Termite-baiting system installed and maintained in accordance with the label.
- 3.
- 4.
Naturally durable termite-resistant wood.
- 5.
- 6.
R305.1.1 Quality mark.
Lumber and plywood required to be pressure-preservative treated in accordance with Section R305.1 shall bear the quality mark of an approved inspection agency that maintains continuing supervision, testing and inspection over the quality of the product and that has been approved by an accreditation body that complies with the requirements of the American Lumber Standard Committee treated wood program.
R305.2 Chemical termiticide treatment.
Chemical termiticide treatment shall include soil treatment or field-applied wood treatment. The concentration, rate of application and method of treatment of the chemical termiticide shall be in strict accordance with the termiticide label.
R305.3 Barriers.
Approved physical barriers, such as metal or plastic sheeting or collars specifically designed for termite prevention, shall be installed in a manner to prevent termites from entering the structure. Shields placed on top of an exterior foundation wall shall be used only if in combination with another method of protection.
R305.4 Foam plastic protection.
In areas where the probability of termite infestation is “very heavy” as indicated in Figure R305.4, extruded and expanded polystyrene, polyisocyanurate and other foam plastics shall not be installed on the exterior face or under interior or exterior foundation walls or slab foundations located below grade. The clearance between foam plastics installed above grade and exposed earth shall be not less than 6 inches (152 mm).
Exceptions:
- 1.
Buildings where the structural members of walls, floors, ceilings and roofs are entirely of noncombustible materials or pressure-preservative-treated wood.
- 2.
- 3.
On the interior side of basement walls.
Note: Lines defining areas are approximate only. Local conditions may be more or less severe than indicated by the region classification.
Section R306 Flood-Resistant Construction
R306.1 General.
Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in flood hazard areas established in Table R301.2, and substantial improvement and repair of substantial damage of buildings and structures located in whole or in part in flood hazard areas, shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions contained in this section. Buildings and structures that are located in more than one flood hazard area, including A Zones, Coastal A Zones and V Zones, shall comply with the provisions associated with the most restrictive flood hazard area. Buildings and structures located in whole or in part in identified floodways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with ASCE 24.
R306.1.2 Structural systems.
Structural systems of buildings and structures shall be designed, connected and anchored to resist flotation, collapse or permanent lateral movement due to structural loads and stresses from flooding equal to the design flood elevation.
R306.1.3 Flood-resistant construction.
Buildings and structures erected in areas prone to flooding shall be constructed by methods and practices that minimize flood damage.
R306.1.4 Establishing the design flood elevation.
The design flood elevation shall be used to define flood hazard areas. At a minimum, the design flood elevation shall be the higher of the following:
- 1.
The base flood elevation at the depth of peak elevation of flooding, including wave height, that has a 1 percent (100-year flood) or greater chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.
- 2.
The elevation of the design flood associated with the area designated on a flood hazard map adopted by the community, or otherwise legally designated.
R306.1.4.1 Determination of design flood elevations.
If design flood elevations are not specified, the building official is authorized to require the applicant to comply with either of the following:
- 1.
Obtain and reasonably use data available from a federal, state or other source.
- 2.
Determine the design flood elevation in accordance with accepted hydrologic and hydraulic engineering practices used to define special flood hazard areas. Determinations shall be undertaken by a registered design professional who shall document that the technical methods used reflect currently accepted engineering practice. Studies, analyses and computations shall be submitted in sufficient detail to allow thorough review and approval.
R306.1.4.2 Determination of impacts.
In riverine flood hazard areas where design flood elevations are specified but floodways have not been designated, the applicant shall demonstrate that the effect of the proposed buildings and structures on design flood elevations, including fill, when combined with other existing and anticipated flood hazard area encroachments, will not increase the design flood elevation more than 1 foot (305 mm) at any point within the jurisdiction.
R306.1.5 Lowest floor.
The lowest floor shall be the lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area, including basement, and excluding any unfinished flood-resistant enclosure that is useable solely for vehicle parking, building access or limited storage provided that such enclosure is not built so as to render the building or structure in violation of this section.
R306.1.6 Protection of mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems.
Electrical systems, equipment and components; heating, ventilating, air-conditioning; plumbing appliances and plumbing fixtures; duct systems; and other service equipment shall be located at or above the elevation required in Section R306.2 or R306.3. If replaced as part of a substantial improvement, electrical systems, equipment and components; heating, ventilating, air-conditioning and plumbing appliances and plumbing fixtures; duct systems; and other service equipment shall meet the requirements of this section. Systems, fixtures, and equipment and components shall not be mounted on or penetrate through walls intended to break away under flood loads.
Exception: Locating electrical systems, equipment and components; heating, ventilating, air-conditioning; plumbing appliances and plumbing fixtures; duct systems; and other service equipment is permitted below the elevation required in Section R306.2 or R306.3 provided that they are designed and installed to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the components and to resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and stresses, including the effects of buoyancy, during the occurrence of flooding to the required elevation in accordance with ASCE 24. Electrical wiring systems are permitted to be located below the required elevation provided that they conform to the provisions of the electrical part of this code for wet locations.
R306.1.7 Protection of water supply and sanitary sewage systems.
New and replacement water supply systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into the systems in accordance with the plumbing provisions of this code. New and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into systems and discharges from systems into floodwaters in accordance with the plumbing provisions of this code and Chapter 3 of the International Private Sewage Disposal Code.
R306.1.9 Manufactured homes.
This section has been deleted.
➡
R306.2 Flood hazard areas (including A Zones).
Areas that have been determined to be prone to flooding and that are not subject to high-velocity wave action shall be designated as flood hazard areas. Flood hazard areas that have been delineated as subject to wave heights between 1 1/2 feet (457 mm) and 3 feet (914 mm) or otherwise designated by the jurisdiction shall be designated as Coastal A Zones and are subject to the requirements of Section R306.3. Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in flood hazard areas shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections R306.2.1 through R306.2.4.
R306.2.1 Elevation requirements.
- 1.
Buildings and structures in flood hazard areas, not including flood hazard areas designated as Coastal A Zones, shall have the lowest floors elevated to or above the base flood elevation plus 1 foot (305 mm), or the design flood elevation, whichever is higher.
- 2.
In areas of shallow flooding (AO Zones), buildings and structures shall have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated to a height above the highest adjacent grade of not less than the depth number specified in feet (mm) on the FIRM plus 1 foot (305 mm), or not less than 3 feet (915 mm) if a depth number is not specified.
- 3.
Basement floors that are below grade on all sides shall be elevated to or above base flood elevation plus 1 foot (305 mm), or the design flood elevation, whichever is higher.
- 4.
Attached garages and carports shall comply with one of the following:
- 4.1.
The floors shall be elevated to or above the elevations required in Item 1 or Item 2, as applicable.
- 4.2.
- 4.1.
- 5.
Detached accessory structures and detached garages shall comply with one of the following:
- 5.1.
The floors shall be elevated to or above the elevations required in Item 1 or Item 2, as applicable.
- 5.2.
Floors below the elevations required in Item 1 or 2, as applicable, must be:
- 5.2.1.
Used only for parking or storage.
- 5.2.2.
One story and not larger than 600 square feet (55.74 m2).
- 5.2.3.
Anchored to resist flotation, collapse or lateral movement resulting from design flood loads.
- 5.2.4.
- 5.2.5.
- 5.2.6
- 5.2.1.
- 5.1.
R306.2.2 Enclosed area below required elevation.
Enclosed areas, including crawl spaces, that are below the elevation required in Section R306.2.1 shall:
- 1.
Be used solely for parking of vehicles, building access or storage.
- 2.
Be provided with flood openings that meet the following criteria and are installed in accordance with Section R306.2.2.1:
- 2.1.
The total net area of nonengineered openings shall be not less than 1 square inch (645 mm2) for each square foot (0.093 m2) of enclosed area where the enclosed area is measured on the exterior of the enclosure walls, or the openings shall be designed as engineered openings and the construction documents shall include a statement by a registered design professional that the design of the openings will provide for equalization of hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters as specified in Section 2.7.2.2 of ASCE 24.
- 2.2.
Openings shall be not less than 3 inches (76 mm) in any direction in the plane of the wall.
- 2.3.
The presence of louvers, blades, screens and faceplates or other covers and devices shall allow the automatic flow of floodwater into and out of the enclosed areas and shall be accounted for in the determination of the net open area.
- 2.1.
Exceptions: The following shall not be required to comply with this section:
- 1.
Elevator shafts.
- 2.
Utility chases that protect utility lines from freezing, provided that the utility chases are the minimum size necessary to protect the utility lines and do not provide access for a person to enter the space.
R306.2.2.1 Installation of openings.
The walls of enclosed areas shall have openings installed such that:
- 1.
There shall be not less than two openings on different sides of each enclosed area; if a building has more than one enclosed area, each area shall have openings.
- 2.
The bottom of each opening shall be not more than 1 foot (305 mm) above the higher of the final interior grade or floor and the finished exterior grade immediately under each opening.
- 3.
Openings shall be permitted to be installed in doors and windows; doors and windows without installed openings do not meet the requirements of this section.
R306.2.3 Foundation design and construction.
Foundation walls for buildings and structures erected in flood hazard areas shall meet the requirements of Chapter 4.
Exception: Unless designed in accordance with Section R404:
- 1.
The unsupported height of 6-inch (152 mm) plain masonry walls shall be not more than 3 feet (914 mm).
- 2.
The unsupported height of 8-inch (203 mm) plain masonry walls shall be not more than 4 feet (1219 mm).
- 3.
The unsupported height of 8-inch (203 mm) reinforced masonry walls shall be not more than 8 feet (2438 mm).
For the purpose of this exception, unsupported height is the distance from the finished grade of the under-floor space to the top of the wall.
R306.2.4 Tanks.
Underground tanks shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse and lateral movement under conditions of the base flood. Above-ground tanks shall be installed at or above the elevation required in Section R306.2.1 or shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse and lateral movement under conditions of the base flood.
R306.3 Coastal high-hazard areas (including V Zones and Coastal A Zones, where designated).
Areas that have been determined to be subject to wave heights in excess of 3 feet (914 mm) or subject to high-velocity wave action or wave-induced erosion shall be designated as coastal high-hazard areas. Flood hazard areas that have been designated as subject to wave heights between 1 1/2 feet (457 mm) and 3 feet (914 mm) or otherwise designated by the jurisdiction shall be designated as Coastal A Zones. Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in coastal high-hazard areas and Coastal A Zones, where designated, shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections R306.3.1 through R306.3.10.
R306.3.1 Location and site preparation.
- 1.
- 2.
For any alteration of sand dunes and mangrove stands, the building official shall require submission of an engineering analysis that demonstrates that the proposed alteration will not increase the potential for flood damage.
R306.3.2 Elevation requirements.
- 1.
Buildings and structures erected within coastal high-hazard areas and Coastal A Zones, shall be elevated so that the bottom of the lowest horizontal structural members supporting the lowest floor, with the exception of piling, pile caps, columns, grade beams and bracing, is elevated to or above the base flood elevation plus 1 foot (305 mm) or the design flood elevation, whichever is higher. Where stem wall foundations are permitted in Coastal A Zones in accordance with Section R306.3.3, the bottom of the lowest horizontal structural member supporting the lowest floor is the top of the foundation wall, or top of the portion of the foundation wall, supporting the slab.
- 2.
Basement floors that are below grade on all sides are prohibited.
- 3.
Attached garages used only for parking, building access or storage, and carports shall comply with Item 1 or shall be at or above grade on not less than one side and, if enclosed with walls, such walls shall comply with Item 7.
- 4.
Detached accessory structures and detached garages shall comply with either of the following:
- 4.1.
The bottom of the lowest horizontal structural member supporting the floors shall be elevated to or above the elevation required in Item 1.
- 4.2.
Floors below the elevations required in Item 1 must be:
- 4.2.1.
Used only for parking or storage.
- 4.2.2.
One story and not larger than 100 square feet (9.29 m2).
- 4.2.3.
Anchored to resist flotation, collapse or lateral movement resulting from design flood loads.
- 4.2.4.
- 4.2.5.
- 4.2.1.
- 4.1.
- 5.
The use of fill for structural support is prohibited.
- 6.
Minor grading, and the placement of minor quantities of fill, shall be permitted for landscaping and for drainage purposes under and around buildings and for support of parking slabs, pool decks, patios and walkways.
- 7.
R306.3.3 Foundations.
Buildings and structures erected in coastal high-hazard areas and Coastal A Zones shall be supported on pilings or columns and shall be adequately anchored to such pilings or columns and shall comply with the following:
- 1.
- 2.
- 3.
Columns and their supporting foundations shall be designed in accordance with ASCE 24 to resist combined wave and wind loads, lateral and uplift, and shall include consideration of decreased resistance capacity caused by scour of soil strata surrounding the columns. Spread footing, mat, raft or other foundations that support columns shall not be permitted where soil investigations that are required in accordance with Section R401.4 indicate that soil material under the spread footing, mat, raft or other foundation is subject to scour or erosion from wave-velocity flow conditions. If permitted, spread footing, mat, raft or other foundations that support columns shall be designed in accordance with ASCE 24.
- 4.
- 5.
Exception: In Coastal A Zones, stem wall foundations supporting a floor system above and backfilled with soil or gravel to the underside of the floor system shall be permitted provided that the foundations are designed to account for wave action, debris impact, erosion and local scour. Where soils are susceptible to erosion and local scour, stem wall foundations shall have deep footings to account for the loss of soil.
R306.3.4 Concrete slabs.
Concrete slabs used for parking, floors of enclosures, landings, decks, walkways, patios and similar uses that are located beneath structures, or slabs that are located such that if undermined or displaced during base flood conditions could cause structural damage to the building foundation, shall be designed and constructed in accordance with one of the following:
- 1.
To be structurally independent of the foundation system of the structure, to not transfer flood loads to the main structure, and to be frangible and break away under flood conditions prior to base flood conditions. Slabs shall be a maximum of 4 inches (102 mm) thick, shall not have turned-down edges, shall not contain reinforcing, shall have isolation joints at pilings and columns, and shall have control or construction joints in both directions spaced not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) apart.
- 2.
To be self-supporting, structural slabs capable of remaining intact and functional under base flood conditions, including erosion and local scour, and the main structure shall be capable of resisting any added flood loads and effects of local scour caused by the presence of the slabs.
R306.3.5 Walls below required elevation.
Walls and partitions are permitted below the elevation required in Section R306.3.2, provided that such walls and partitions are not part of the structural support of the building or structure and:
- 1.
Electrical, mechanical and plumbing system components are not to be mounted on or penetrate through walls that are designed to break away under flood loads; and
- 2.
Are constructed with insect screening or open lattice; or
- 3.
Are designed to break away or collapse without causing collapse, displacement or other structural damage to the elevated portion of the building or supporting foundation system. Such walls, framing and connections shall have a resistance of not less than 10 (479 Pa) and not more than 20 pounds per square foot (958 Pa) as determined using allowable stress design, or a resistance to an ultimate load of not less than 17 and not more than 33 pounds per square foot (814 and 1580 Pa); or
- 4.
Where wind loading values of this code exceed 20 pounds per square foot (958 Pa), as determined using allowable stress design or an ultimate load of 33 pounds per square foot (1580 Pa), the construction documents shall include documentation prepared and sealed by a registered design professional that:
- 4.1.
The walls and partitions below the required elevation have been designed to collapse from a water load less than that which would occur during the base flood.
- 4.2.
The elevated portion of the building and supporting foundation system have been designed to withstand the effects of wind and flood loads acting simultaneously on structural and nonstructural building components. Water-loading values used shall be those associated with the design flood. Wind-loading values shall be those required by this code.
- 4.1.
- 5.
Exceptions: The following shall not be required to comply with this section:
- 1.
Elevator shafts.
- 2.
Utility chases that protect utility lines from freezing, provided that the utility chases are the minimum size necessary to protect the utility lines and do not provide access for a person to enter the space.
R306.3.6 Enclosed areas below required elevation.
Enclosed areas below the elevation required in Section R306.3.2 shall be used solely for parking of vehicles, building access or storage.
R306.3.7 Stairways and ramps.
Stairways and ramps that are located below the lowest floor elevations specified in Section R306.3.2 shall comply with one or more of the following:
- 1.
Be designed and constructed with open or partially open risers and guards.
- 2.
Stairways and ramps not part of the required means of egress shall be designed and constructed to break away during design flood conditions without causing damage to the building or structure, including foundation.
- 3.
Be retractable, or able to be raised to or above the lowest floor elevation, provided that the ability to be retracted or raised prior to the onset of flooding is not contrary to the means of egress requirements of the code.
- 4.
Be designed and constructed to resist flood loads and minimize transfer of flood loads to the building or structure, including foundation.
Areas below stairways and ramps shall not be enclosed with walls below the elevation required in Section R306.3.2 unless such walls are constructed in accordance with Section R306.3.5.
R306.3.8 Decks and porches.
Attached decks and porches shall meet the elevation requirements of Section R306.3.2 and shall either meet the foundation requirements of this section or shall be cantilevered from or knee braced to the building or structure. Self-supporting decks and porches that are below the elevation required in Section R306.3.2 shall not be enclosed by solid, rigid walls, including walls designed to break away. Self-supporting decks and porches shall be designed and constructed to remain in place during base flood conditions or shall be frangible and break away under base flood conditions.
R306.3.9 Construction documents.
The construction documents shall include documentation that is prepared and sealed by a registered design professional that the design and methods of construction to be used meet the applicable criteria of this section.
R306.3.10 Tanks.
Underground tanks shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse and lateral movement under conditions of the base flood. Above-ground tanks shall be installed at or above the elevation required in Section R306.3.2. Where elevated on platforms, the platforms shall be cantilevered from or knee braced to the building or shall be supported on foundations that conform to the requirements of Section R306.3.
Section R307 Storm Shelters
R307.1 General.
This section applies to the design, construction and installation of storm shelters where constructed as either separate detached buildings or rooms or spaces within buildings for the purpose of providing protection from tornadoes, hurricanes and other severe windstorms.
Section R308 Site Address
R308.1 Address identification.
Buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in height with a stroke width of not less than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building address cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.
Section R309 Automatic Sprinkler Systems (Optional)
R309.1 Automatic fire sprinkler systems (Optional).
Installation of an automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be optional and not mandatory in one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
R309.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic sprinkler systems.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in one- and two-family dwellings.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system shall not be required for additions or alterations to existing buildings that are not already provided with a sprinkler system.
Section R310 Smoke Alarms
R310.1 General.
Smoke alarms shall comply with NFPA 72, Section R310 and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R310.1.2 Installation.
Smoke alarms and combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed in accordance with their listing and the manufacturer’s instructions.
R310.2 Where required.
Smoke alarms shall be provided in accordance with this section.
R310.2.1 New construction.
Smoke alarms shall be provided in dwelling units.
R310.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions.
Where alterations, repairs or additions requiring a permit occur, the individual dwelling unit shall be equipped with smoke alarms located as required for new dwellings.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Work involving the exterior surfaces of dwellings, such as the replacement of roofing or siding, the addition or replacement of windows or doors, or the addition of a porch or deck.
- 2.
Installation, alteration or repairs of plumbing or mechanical systems.
R310.3 Location.
Smoke alarms shall be installed in the following locations:
- 1.
In each sleeping room.
- 2.
Outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms.
- 3.
On each additional story of the dwelling unit, including basements and habitable attics and not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
- 4.
Not less than 3 feet (914 mm) horizontally from the door or opening of a bathroom that contains a bathtub or shower unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm required by this section.
- 5.
In the hallway and in the room open to the hallway in dwelling units where the ceiling height of a room open to a hallway serving bedrooms exceeds that of the hallway by 24 inches (610 mm) or more.
- 6.
Within the room to which a sleeping loft is open, in the immediate vicinity of the sleeping loft.
R310.3.1 Installation near cooking appliances.
Smoke alarms shall be installed not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.
R310.4 Interconnection.
Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit in accordance with Section R310.3, the alarm devices shall be interconnected in such a manner that the actuation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual dwelling unit. Physical interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be required where listed wireless alarms are installed and all alarms sound upon activation of one alarm.
R310.5 Combination alarms.
Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms shall be permitted to be used in lieu of smoke alarms.
R310.6 Power source.
Smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial source and, where primary power is interrupted, shall receive power from a battery. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than those required for overcurrent protection.
R310.7 Fire alarm systems.
Fire alarm systems shall be permitted to be used in lieu of smoke alarms and shall comply with Sections R310.7.1 through R310.7.4.
R310.7.3 Permanent fixture.
Where a household fire alarm system is installed, it shall become a permanent fixture of the occupancy, owned by the homeowner.
Section R311 Carbon Monoxide Alarms
R311.1.2 Installation.
Carbon monoxide alarms, and combination carbon monoxide and smoke alarms, shall be installed in accordance with their listing and the manufacturer’s instructions.
R311.2 Where required.
Carbon monoxide alarms shall be provided in accordance with Sections R311.2.1 and R311.2.2.
R311.2.1 New construction.
For new construction, carbon monoxide alarms shall be provided in dwelling units.
R311.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions.
Where alterations, repairs or additions requiring a permit occur, the individual dwelling unit shall be equipped with carbon monoxide alarms located as required for new dwellings.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Work involving the exterior surfaces of dwellings, such as the replacement of roofing or siding, or the addition or replacement of windows or doors, or the addition of a porch or deck.
- 2.
Installation, alteration or repairs of plumbing systems.
- 3.
Installation, alteration or repairs of mechanical systems that are not fuel fired.
R311.3 Location.
Carbon monoxide alarms in dwelling units shall be installed outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms. Where a fuel-burning appliance is located within a bedroom or its attached bathroom, a carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed within the bedroom.
R311.4 Combination alarms.
Combination carbon monoxide and smoke alarms shall be permitted to be used in lieu of carbon monoxide alarms.
R311.5 Interconnectivity.
Where more than one carbon monoxide alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit in accordance with Section R311.3, the alarm devices shall be interconnected in such a manner that the actuation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual dwelling unit. Physical interconnection of carbon monoxide alarms shall not be required where listed wireless alarms are installed and all alarms sound upon activation of one alarm.
Exception: Interconnection of carbon monoxide alarms in existing areas shall not be required where alterations or repairs do not result in removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or basement available that could provide access for interconnection without the removal of interior finishes.
R311.6 Power source.
Carbon monoxide alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial source and, where primary power is interrupted, shall receive power from a battery. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than those required for overcurrent protection.
R311.7 Carbon monoxide detection systems.
Carbon monoxide detection systems shall be permitted to be used in lieu of carbon monoxide alarms and shall comply with Sections R311.7.1 through R311.7.4.
R311.7.3 Permanent fixture.
Where a household carbon monoxide detection system is installed, it shall become a permanent fixture of the occupancy and owned by the homeowner.
Section R312 Minimum Room Areas
R312.1 Minimum area.
Habitable rooms shall have a floor area of not less than 70 square feet (6.5 m2).
Exception: Kitchens.
R312.2 Minimum dimensions.
Habitable rooms shall be not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) in any horizontal dimension.
Exception: Kitchens.
R312.3 Height effect on room area.
Portions of a room with a sloping ceiling measuring less than 5 feet (1524 mm) or a furred ceiling measuring less than 7 feet (2134 mm) from the finished floor to the finished ceiling shall not be considered as contributing to the minimum required habitable area for that room.
Section R313 Ceiling Height
R313.1 Minimum height.
Habitable space, hallways and portions of basements containing these spaces shall have a ceiling height of not less than 7 feet (2134 mm). Bathrooms, toilet rooms and laundry rooms shall have a ceiling height of not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm).
Exceptions:
- 1.
For rooms with sloped ceilings, the required floor area of the room shall have a ceiling height of not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) and not less than 50 percent of the required floor area shall have a ceiling height of not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).
- 2.
The ceiling height above bathroom and toilet room fixtures shall be such that the fixture is capable of being used for its intended purpose. A shower or tub equipped with a showerhead shall have a ceiling height of not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm) above an area of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) by 30 inches (762 mm) at the showerhead.
- 3.
Beams, girders, ducts or other obstructions in basements containing habitable space shall be permitted to project to within 6 feet 4 inches (1931 mm) of the finished floor.
- 4.
Beams and girders spaced apart not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in clear finished width shall project not more than 78 inches (1981 mm) from the finished floor.
R313.1.1 Basements.
Portions of basements that do not contain habitable space or hallways shall have a ceiling height of not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm).
Exception: At beams, girders, ducts or other obstructions, the ceiling height shall be not less than 6 feet 4 inches (1931 mm) from the finished floor.
R313.1.2 Habitable attics and basements in existing buildings.
Where a habitable attic or habitable space in a basement is created in an existing building, ceiling height shall not be less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm). Bathrooms, toilet rooms and laundry rooms shall have a ceiling height of not less than 6 feet 4 inches (1930 mm).
Exceptions:
- 1.
For rooms with sloped ceilings, the required floor area of the room shall have a ceiling height of not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) and not less than 50 percent of the required floor area shall have a ceiling height of not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm).
- 2.
At beams, girders, ducts or other obstructions, the ceiling height shall be not less than 6 feet 4 inches (1930 mm) from the finished floor.
Section R314 Mezzanines
R314.2 Mezzanines.
The clear height above and below mezzanine floor construction shall be not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).
R314.3 Area limitation.
The aggregate area of a mezzanine or mezzanines shall be not greater than one-third of the floor area of the room or space in which they are located. The enclosed portion of a room shall not be included in a determination of the floor area of the room in which the mezzanine is located.
Exception: The aggregate area of a mezzanine located within a dwelling unit equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section P2904 shall not be greater than one-half of the floor area of the room, provided that the mezzanine meets all of the following requirements:
- 1.
Except for enclosed closets and bathrooms, the mezzanine is open to the room in which such mezzanine is located.
- 2.
The opening to the room is unobstructed except for walls not more than 42 inches (1067 mm) in height, columns, beams and posts.
- 3.
R314.5 Openness.
Mezzanines shall be open and unobstructed to the room in which they are located except for walls not more than 42 inches (1067 mm) in height, columns, beams and posts.
Exception: Mezzanines, or portions of the mezzanines, are not required to be open to the room in which they are located, provided that the enclosed spaces on the mezzanine are not greater than 10 percent of the mezzanine area.
Section R315 Sleeping Lofts
R315.1 Sleeping lofts.
Where provided in dwelling units or sleeping units, sleeping lofts shall comply with this code as modified by Sections R315.2 through R315.5. Sleeping lofts constructed in compliance with this section shall be considered a portion of the story below. Such sleeping lofts shall not contribute to the number of stories as regulated by this code.
Exceptions: Sleeping lofts need not comply with Section R315 where they meet any of the following conditions:
- 1.
The sleeping loft has a depth of less than 3 feet (914 mm).
- 2.
The sleeping loft has a floor area of less than 35 square feet (3.3 m2).
- 3.
The sleeping loft is not provided with a permanent means of egress.
R315.2 Sleeping loft limitations.
Sleeping lofts shall comply with the following conditions:
- 1.
The sleeping loft floor area shall be less than 70 square feet (6.5 m2).
- 2.
The sleeping loft ceiling height shall not exceed 7 feet (2134 mm) for more than one-half of the sleeping loft floor area.
R315.3 Sleeping loft ceiling height.
The clear height below the sleeping loft floor construction shall not be less than 7 feet (2134 mm). The ceiling height above the finished floor of the sleeping loft shall not be less than 3 feet (914 mm). Spaces adjacent to the sleeping loft with a sloped ceiling measuring less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the finished floor to the finished ceiling shall not contribute to the sleeping loft floor area.
R315.4 Sleeping loft area.
The aggregate area of all sleeping lofts and mezzanines within a room shall comply with Section R314.3.
Exception: The area of a single sleeping loft located within a dwelling unit or sleeping unit equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section P2904 shall not be greater than two-thirds of the area of the room in which it is located, provided that no other sleeping lofts or mezzanines are open to the room in which the sleeping loft is located.
R315.5 Permanent egress for sleeping lofts.
A permanent means of egress shall be provided for sleeping lofts. The means of egress shall comply with Section R318 as modified by Sections R315.5.1 through R315.5.3.
R315.5.1 Ceiling height at sleeping loft means of egress.
A ceiling height of not less than 3 feet (914 mm) shall be provided for the entire width of the means of egress from the sleeping loft.
R315.5.2 Stairways.
Stairways providing egress from sleeping lofts shall be permitted to comply with Sections R315.5.2.1 through R315.5.2.3.
R315.5.2.1 Width.
Stairways providing egress from a sleeping loft shall not be less than 17 inches (432 mm) in clear width at or above the handrail. The width below the handrail shall be not less than 20 inches (610 mm).
R315.5.2.2 Treads and risers.
Risers for stairs providing egress from a sleeping loft shall be not less than 7 inches (178 mm) and not more than 12 inches (305 mm) in height. Tread depth and riser height shall be calculated in accordance with one of the following formulas:
- 1.
The tread depth shall be 20 inches (508 mm) minus four-thirds of the riser height.
- 2.
The riser height shall be 15 inches (381 mm) minus three-fourths of the tread depth.
R315.5.3 Ladders.
Ladders used as a means of egress from sleeping lofts shall comply with Sections R315.5.3.1 and R315.5.3.2.
R315.5.3.1 Size and capacity.
Ladders providing egress from sleeping lofts shall have a rung width of not less than 12 inches (305 mm), and 10-inch (254 mm) to 14-inch (356 mm) spacing between rungs. Ladders shall be capable of supporting a 300-pound (136 kg) load on any rung. Rung spacing shall be uniform within 3/8 inch (9.5 mm).
R315.5.3.2 Incline.
Ladders shall be inclined at 70 to 80 degrees from horizontal.
Section R316 Habitable Attics
R316.3 Story above grade plane.
A habitable attic shall be considered a story above grade plane.
Exceptions: A habitable attic shall not be considered to be a story above grade plane provided that the habitable attic meets all the following:
- 1.
The aggregate area of the habitable attic is either of the following:
- 1.1.
Not greater than one-third of the floor area of the story below.
- 1.2.
- 1.1.
- 2.
The occupiable space is enclosed by the roof assembly above, knee walls, if applicable, on the sides and the floor-ceiling assembly below.
- 3.
The floor of the habitable attic does not extend beyond the exterior walls of the story below.
- 4.
Section R317 Garages and Carports
R317.1 Floor surface.
Garage floor surfaces shall be of approved noncombustible material.
The area of floor used for parking of automobiles or other vehicles shall be sloped to facilitate the movement of liquids to a drain or toward the main vehicle entry doorway.
R317.2 Carports.
Carports shall be open on not less than two sides. Carport floor surfaces shall be of approved noncombustible material. Carports not open on two or more sides shall be considered to be a garage and shall comply with the provisions of this section for garages.
The area of floor used for parking of automobiles or other vehicles shall be sloped to facilitate the movement of liquids to a drain or toward the main vehicle entry doorway.
Exception: Asphalt surfaces shall be permitted at ground level in carports.
R317.5 Fire sprinklers.
This section has been deleted.
➡
R317.6 Electric vehicle charging systems.
Where provided, electric vehicle charging systems shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 70. Electric vehicle charging system equipment shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 2202. Electric vehicle supply equipment shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 2594.
R317.7 Automotive Lifts.
Where provided, automotive lifts shall be listed and labeled in accordance with ANSI/ALI ALCTV.
Section R318 Means of Egress
R318.1 Means of egress.
Dwelling units shall be provided with a means of egress in accordance with this section. The means of egress shall provide a continuous and unobstructed path of vertical and horizontal egress travel from all portions of the dwelling unit to the required egress door without requiring travel through a garage. The required egress door shall open directly into a public way or to a yard or court that opens to a public way.
R318.2 Egress door.
Not less than one egress door shall be provided for each dwelling unit. The egress door shall be side-hinged, and shall provide a clear width of not less than 32 inches (813 mm) where measured between the face of the door and the stop, with the door open 90 degrees (1.57 rad). The clear height of the door opening shall be not less than 78 inches (1981 mm) in height measured from the top of the threshold to the bottom of the stop. Other doors shall not be required to comply with these minimum dimensions. Egress doors shall be readily openable from inside the dwelling unit without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.
R318.3 Floors and landings at exterior doors.
There shall be a landing or floor on each side of each exterior door. The width of each landing shall be not less than the door served. Landings shall have a dimension of not less than 36 inches (914 mm) measured in the direction of travel. The slope at exterior landings shall not exceed 1/4 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2 percent).
Exception: Exterior balconies less than 60 square feet (5.6 m2) and only accessed from a door are permitted to have a landing that is less than 36 inches (914 mm) measured in the direction of travel.
R318.3.1 Floor elevations at the required egress doors.
Landings or finished floors at the required egress door shall be not more than 1 1/2 inches (38 mm) lower than the top of the threshold.
Exception: The landing or floor on the exterior side shall be not more than 7 3/4 inches (196 mm) below the top of the threshold provided that the door does not swing over the landing or floor.
Where exterior landings or floors serving the required egress door are not at grade, they shall be provided with access to grade by means of a ramp in accordance with Section R318.8 or a stairway in accordance with Section R318.7.
R318.3.2 Floor elevations at other exterior doors.
Exterior doors other than the required egress door shall be provided with landings or floors not more than 7 3/4 inches (196 mm) below the top of the threshold.
Exception: An exterior landing or floor is not required at the exterior doorway where a stairway of not more than two risers is located on the exterior side of the door, provided that the door does not swing over the stairway.
R318.3.3 Storm and screen doors.
Storm and screen doors shall be permitted to swing over exterior stairs and landings.
R318.5 Landing, deck, balcony and stair construction and attachment.
Exterior landings, decks, balconies, stairs and similar facilities shall be positively anchored to the primary structure to resist both vertical and lateral forces or shall be designed to be self-supporting. Attachment shall not be accomplished by use of toenails or nails subject to withdrawal.
R318.6 Hallways.
The width of a hallway shall be not less than 3 feet (914 mm).
R318.7 Stairways.
Where required by this code or provided, stairways shall comply with this section.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Stairways not within or serving a building, porch or deck.
- 2.
Stairways leading to nonhabitable attics.
- 3.
Stairways leading to crawl spaces.
R318.7.1 Width.
Stairways shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in clear width at all points above the permitted handrail height and below the required headroom height. The clear width of stairways at and below the handrail height, including treads and landings, shall be not less than 31 1/2 inches (787 mm) where a handrail is installed on one side and 27 inches (698 mm) where handrails are installed on both sides.
R318.7.2 Headroom.
The headroom in stairways shall be not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm) measured vertically from the sloped line adjoining the tread nosing or from the floor surface of the landing or platform on that portion of the stairway.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Where the nosings of treads at the side of a flight extend under the edge of a floor opening through which the stair passes, the floor opening shall not project horizontally into the required headroom more than 43/4 inches (121 mm).
- 2.
R318.7.3 Vertical rise.
A flight of stairs shall not have a vertical rise greater than 12 feet 7 inches (3835 mm) between floor levels or landings.
R318.7.4 Walkline.
The walkline across winder treads and landings shall be concentric to the turn and parallel to the direction of travel entering and exiting the turn. The walkline shall be located 12 inches (305 mm) from the inside of the turn. The 12-inch (305 mm) dimension shall be measured from the widest point of the clear stair width at the walking surface. Where winders are adjacent within a flight, the point of the widest clear stair width of the adjacent winders shall be used.
R318.7.5 Stair treads and risers.
Stair treads and risers shall meet the requirements of this section. For the purposes of this section, dimensions and dimensioned surfaces shall be exclusive of carpets, rugs or runners.
R318.7.5.1 Risers.
The riser height shall be not more than 7 3/4 inches (196 mm). The riser height shall be measured vertically between leading edges of the adjacent treads. The greatest riser height within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm). Risers shall be vertical or sloped from the underside of the nosing of the tread above at an angle not more than 30 degrees (0.51 rad) from the vertical. At open risers, openings located more than 30 inches (762 mm), as measured vertically, to the floor or grade below shall not permit the passage of a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere.
R318.7.5.2 Treads.
The tread depth shall be not less than 10 inches (254 mm). The tread depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads and at a right angle to the tread’s leading edge. The greatest tread depth within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm).
Winder treads shall have a tread depth of not less than 10 inches (254 mm) measured between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads at the intersections with the walkline. Winder treads shall have a tread depth of not less than 6 inches (152 mm) at any point within the clear width of the stair. Within any flight of stairs, the largest winder tread depth at the walkline shall not exceed the smallest winder tread by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm). Consistently shaped winders at the walkline shall be allowed within the same flight of stairs as rectangular treads and shall not be required to be within 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) of the rectangular tread depth.
R318.7.5.3 Nosings.
Treads, landings and floors of stairways shall have a radius of curvature at the nosing not greater than 9/16 inch (14 mm) or a bevel not greater than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm). A nosing projection not less than 3/4 inch (19 mm) and not more than 1 1/4 inches (32 mm) shall be provided on stairways. The greatest nosing projection shall not exceed the smallest nosing projection by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) within a flight of stairs and the landings at the top of the flight.
Exceptions:
- 1.
A nosing projection is not required where the tread depth is not less than 11 inches (279 mm).
- 2.
Where risers are open, the maximum nosing projection shall be permitted to exceed 1 1/4 inches (32 mm).
R318.7.6 Landings for stairways.
There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each flight of stairs. The width perpendicular to the direction of travel shall be not less than the width of the flight served. For landings of shapes other than square or rectangular, the depth at the walk line and the total area shall be not less than that of a quarter circle with a radius equal to the required landing width. Where the stairway has a straight run, the depth in the direction of travel shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm).
Exceptions:
- 1.
The top landing of an interior stairway, including those in an enclosed garage, shall be permitted to be on the other side of a door located at the top of the stairway, provided that the door does not swing over the stairs.
- 2.
At an enclosed garage, the top landing at the stair shall be permitted to be not more than 7 3/4 inches (197 mm) below the top of the threshold.
- 3.
At exterior doors, a top landing is not required for an exterior stairway of not more than two risers, provided that the door does not swing over the stairway.
- 4.
Exterior stairways to grade with three or fewer risers serving a deck, porch or patio shall have a bottom landing width of not less than 36 inches (914 mm), provided that the stairway is not the required access to grade serving the required egress door.
R318.7.7 Stairway walking surface.
The walking surface of treads and landings of stairways shall be sloped not steeper than 1 unit vertical in 48 units horizontal (2 percent slope).
Exception: Where the surface of a landing is required elsewhere in the code to drain surface water, the walking surface of the landing shall be sloped not steeper than 1 unit vertical in 20 units horizontal (5 percent slope) in the direction of travel.
R318.7.8 Handrails.
Handrails shall be provided on not less than one side of each flight of stairs with four or more risers.
R318.7.9 Stairways in existing buildings.
Alterations to existing stairs shall not be required to comply with the requirements of this code where the existing space and construction does not allow a reduction in pitch or slope.
R318.7.11 Special stairways.
Spiral stairways and bulkhead enclosure stairways shall comply with the requirements of Section R318.7 except as specified in Sections R318.7.11.1 and R318.7.11.2.
R318.7.11.1 Spiral stairways.
The clear width at and below the handrails at spiral stairways shall be not less than 26 inches (660 mm) and the walkline radius shall be not greater than 24 1/2 inches (622 mm). Each tread shall have a depth of not less than 6 3/4 inches (171 mm) at the walkline. Treads shall be identical, and the rise shall be not more than 9 1/2 inches (241 mm). Headroom shall be not less than 6 feet 6 inches (1982 mm).
R318.7.11.2 Bulkhead enclosure stairways.
Stairways serving bulkhead enclosures, not part of the required building egress, providing access from the outside grade level to the basement shall be exempt from the requirements of Sections R318.3 and R318.7 where the height from the basement finished floor level to grade adjacent to the stairway is not more than 8 feet (2438 mm) and the grade level opening to the stairway is covered by a bulkhead enclosure with hinged doors or other approved means.
R318.7.12 Alternating tread devices.
Alternating tread devices shall not be used as an element of a means of egress. Alternating tread devices shall be permitted provided that a required means of egress stairway or ramp serves the same space at each adjoining level or where a means of egress is not required. The clear width at and below the handrails shall be not less than 20 inches (508 mm).
➡
R318.7.12.1 Treads of alternating tread devices.
Alternating tread devices shall have a tread depth of not less than 5 inches (127 mm), a projected tread depth of not less than 8 1/2 inches (216 mm), a tread width of not less than 7 inches (178 mm) and a riser height of not more than 9 1/2 inches (241 mm). The tread depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projections of adjacent treads. The riser height shall be measured vertically between the leading edges of adjacent treads. The riser height and tread depth provided shall result in an angle of ascent from the horizontal of between 50 and 70 degrees (0.87 and 1.22 rad). The initial tread of the device shall begin at the same elevation as the platform, landing or floor surface.
R318.7.13 Ship’s ladders.
Ship’s ladders shall not be used as an element of a means of egress. Ship’s ladders shall be permitted provided that a required means of egress stairway or ramp serves the same space at each adjoining level or where a means of egress is not required. The clear width at and below the handrails shall be not less than 20 inches (508 mm).
Exception: Ship’s ladders are allowed to be used as an element of a means of egress for lofts, mezzanines and similar areas of 200 gross square feet (18.6 m2) or less that do not provide exclusive access to a kitchen or bathroom.
R318.7.13.1 Treads of ship’s ladders.
Treads shall have a depth of not less than 5 inches (127 mm). The tread shall be projected such that the total of the tread depth plus the nosing projection is not less than 8 1/2 inches (216 mm). The riser height shall be not more than 9 1/2 inches (241 mm).
R318.8 Ramps.
Where required by this code or provided, ramps shall comply with this section.
Exception: Ramps not within or serving a building, porch or deck.
R318.8.1 Maximum slope.
Ramps serving the egress door required by Section R318.2 shall have a slope of not more than 1 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.3 percent slope).
Other ramps shall have a slope of not more than 1 unit vertical in 8 units horizontal (12.5 percent).
Exception: Where it is technically infeasible to comply because of site constraints, ramps shall have a slope of not more than 1 unit vertical in 8 units horizontal (12.5 percent).
R318.8.2 Landings required.
There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each ramp, where doors open onto ramps, and where ramps change directions. The width of the landing perpendicular to the ramp slope shall be not less than the width of the ramp. The depth of the landing in the direction of the ramp slope shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm).
Section R319 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings
R319.1 Emergency escape and rescue opening required.
Basements, habitable attics, the room to which a sleeping loft is open, and every sleeping room shall have not less than one operable emergency escape and rescue opening. Where basements contain one or more sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be required in each sleeping room. emergency escape and rescue opening shall open directly into a public way, or to a yard or court that opens to a public way.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Basements used only to house mechanical equipment not exceeding a total floor area of 200 square feet (18.58 m2).
- 2.
- 3.
- 4.
A yard shall not be required to open directly into a public way where the yard opens to an unobstructed path from the yard to the public way. Such path shall have a width of not less than 36 inches (914 mm).
R319.1.1 Operational constraints and opening control devices.
Emergency escape and rescue openings shall be operational from the inside of the room without the use of keys, tools or special knowledge. Window opening control devices and fall prevention devices complying with ASTM F2090 shall be permitted for use on windows serving as a required emergency escape and rescue opening and shall be not more than 70 inches (178 cm) above the finished floor.
R319.2 Emergency escape and rescue openings.
Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have minimum dimensions in accordance with Sections R319.2.1 through R319.2.4.
R319.2.1 Minimum size.
Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have a net clear opening of not less than 5.7 square feet (0.530 m2).
Exception: The minimum net clear opening for grade-floor emergency escape and rescue openings shall be 5 square feet (0.465 m2).
R319.2.2 Minimum dimensions.
The minimum net clear opening height dimension shall be 24 inches (610 mm). The minimum net clear opening width dimension shall be 20 inches (508 mm). The net clear opening dimensions shall be the result of normal operation of the opening.
R319.2.3 Maximum height from floor.
Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have the bottom of the clear opening not greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) above the floor.
R319.2.4 Emergency escape and rescue openings under decks, porches and cantilevers.
Emergency escape and rescue openings installed under decks, porches and cantilevers shall be fully openable and provide a path not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height and 36 inches (914 mm) in width to a yard or court.
R319.3 Emergency escape and rescue doors.
Where a door is provided as the required emergency escape and rescue opening, it shall be a side-hinged door or a sliding door.
R319.4 Area wells.
An emergency escape and rescue opening where the bottom of the clear opening is below the adjacent grade shall be provided with an area well in accordance with Sections R319.4.1 through R319.4.4.
R319.4.1 Minimum size.
The horizontal area of the area well shall be not less than 9 square feet (0.9 m2), with a horizontal projection and width of not less than 36 inches (914 mm). The size of the area well shall allow the emergency escape and rescue opening to be fully opened.
R319.4.2 Ladder and steps.
Area wells with a vertical depth greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) shall be equipped with an approved, permanently affixed ladder or steps. The ladder or steps shall not be obstructed by the emergency escape and rescue opening where the window or door is in the open position. Ladders or steps required by this section shall not be required to comply with Section R318.7.
R319.4.2.1 Ladders.
Ladders and rungs shall have an inside width of not less than 12 inches (305 mm), shall project not less than 3 inches (76 mm) from the wall and shall be spaced not more than 18 inches (457 mm) on center vertically for the full height of the area well.
R319.4.2.2 Steps.
Steps shall have an inside width of not less than 12 inches (305 mm), a minimum tread depth of 5 inches (127 mm) and a maximum riser height of 18 inches (457 mm) for the full height of the area well.
R319.4.4 Bars, grilles, covers and screens.
Where bars, grilles, covers, screens or similar devices are placed over emergency escape and rescue openings, bulkhead enclosures or area wells that serve such openings, the minimum net clear opening size shall comply with Sections R319.2 through R319.2.2 and R319.4.1. Such devices shall be releasable or removable from the inside without the use of a key or tool or force greater than that required for the normal operation of the escape and rescue opening.
R319.5 Replacement windows for emergency escape and rescue openings.
Replacement for emergency escape and rescue openings installed in buildings meeting the scope of this code shall be exempt from Sections R319.2 and R319.4.4, provided that the replacement window meets the following conditions:
- 1.
The replacement window is the manufacturer’s largest standard size window that will fit within the existing frame or existing rough opening. The replacement window shall be permitted to be of the same operating style as the existing window or a style that provides for an equal or greater window opening area than the existing window.
- 2.
The replacement window is not part of a change of occupancy.
R319.6 Dwelling additions.
Where dwelling unit additions contain sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be provided in each new sleeping room. Where dwelling unit additions have basements, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be provided in the new basement.
Exceptions:
- 1.
An emergency escape and rescue opening is not required in a new basement that contains a sleeping room with an emergency escape and rescue opening.
- 2.
An emergency escape and rescue opening is not required in a new basement where there is an emergency escape and rescue opening in an existing basement that is accessed from the new basement.
- 3.
R319.7 Alterations or repairs of existing basements.
New sleeping rooms created in an existing basement shall be provided with emergency escape and rescue openings in accordance with Section R319.1. Other than new sleeping rooms, where existing basements undergo alterations or repairs, an emergency escape and rescue opening is not required.
R319.7.1 Existing emergency escape and rescue openings.
Where a change of occupancy would require an emergency escape and rescue opening in accordance with Section R319.1, operable windows serving as the emergency escape and rescue opening shall comply with the following:
- 1.
An existing operable window shall provide a minimum net clear opening of 4 square feet (0.38 m2) with a minimum net clear opening height of 22 inches (559 mm) and a minimum net clear opening width of 20 inches (508 mm).
- 2.
A replacement window where such window complies with both of the following:
- 2.1.
The replacement window meets the size requirements in Item 1.
- 2.2.
The replacement window is the manufacturer’s largest standard-size window that will fit within the existing frame or existing rough opening. The replacement window shall be permitted to be of the same operating style as the existing window or a style that provides for an equal or greater window opening area than the existing window.
- 2.1.
Section R320 Handrails
R320.2 Height.
Handrail height, measured vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm). Handrail height on alternating tread devices and ship’s ladders shall be uniform and not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864 mm).
Exceptions:
- 1.
The use of a volute, turnout or starting easing shall be allowed over the lowest tread.
- 2.
Where handrail fittings or bendings are used to provide continuous transition between flights, transitions at winder treads, the transition from handrail to guard, or used at the start of a flight, the handrail height at the fittings or bendings shall be permitted to exceed 38 inches (965 mm).
R320.3 Handrail projection.
Handrails shall not project more than 41/2 inches (114 mm) on either side of the stairway or ramp.
Exception: Where nosings of landings, floors or passing flights project into the stairway reducing the clearance at passing handrails, handrails shall project not more than 61/2 inches (165 mm) into the stairway, provided that the stair width and handrail clearance are not reduced to less than that required.
R320.4 Handrail clearance.
Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than 1 1/2 inches (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.
R320.5 Continuity.
Handrails shall be continuous for the full length of the flight, from a point directly above the nosing of the landing at the top of the flight to a point directly above the lowest nosing of the flight. Handrails where required for ramps shall be continuous for the full length of the ramp. A handrail end shall be returned continuous to itself or toward a wall, guard or walking surface. Handrail returns shall not form a gap more than 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) from the adjacent wall.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Handrail continuity shall be permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at a turn in a flight with winders, at a landing, or over the lowest tread.
- 2.
A volute, turnout or starting easing shall be allowed to terminate over the lowest tread.
R320.6 Grip size.
Required handrails shall be of one of the following types or provide equivalent graspability.
- 1.
Type I. Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of not less than 1 1/4 inches (32 mm) and not greater than 2 inches (51 mm). If the handrail is not circular, it shall have a perimeter of not less than 4 inches (102 mm) and not greater than 6 1/4 inches (160 mm) and a cross section of not more than 2 1/4 inches (57 mm). Edges shall have a radius of not less than 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).
- 2.
Type II. Handrails with a perimeter greater than 6 1/4 inches (160 mm) shall have a graspable finger recess area on both sides of the profile. The finger recess shall begin within 3/4 inch (19 mm) measured vertically from the tallest portion of the profile and have a depth of not less than 5/16 inch (8 mm) within 7/8 inch (22 mm) below the widest portion of the profile. This required depth shall continue for not less than 3/8 inch (10 mm) to a level that is not less than 1 3/4 inches (45 mm) below the tallest portion of the profile. The width of the handrail above the recess shall be not less than 1 1/4 inches (32 mm) and not more than 2 3/4 inches (70 mm). Edges shall have a radius of not less than 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).
Section R321 Guards
R321.1.1 Where required.
Guards shall be provided for those portions of open-sided walking surfaces, including floors, stairs, ramps and landings that are located more than 30 inches (762 mm) measured vertically to the floor or grade below at any point within 36 inches (914 mm) horizontally to the edge of the open side. Insect screening shall not be considered as a guard.
R321.1.2 Height.
Required guards at open-sided walking surfaces, including stairs, porches, balconies or landings, shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height as measured vertically above the adjacent walking surface or the line connecting the nosings.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Guards on the open sides of stairs shall have a height of not less than 34 inches (864 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the nosings.
- 2.
Where the top of the guard serves as a handrail on the open sides of stairs, the top of the guard shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) as measured vertically from a line connecting the nosings.
R321.1.3 Opening limitations.
Required guards shall not have openings from the walking surface to the required guard height that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter.
Exceptions:
- 1.
The triangular openings at the open side of stair, formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail of a guard, shall not allow passage of a sphere 6 inches (153 mm) in diameter.
- 2.
Guards on the open side of stairs shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 3/8 inches (111 mm) in diameter.
R321.2 Window fall protection.
This section has been deleted.
➡
Section R322 Accessibility
R322.1 Dwelling units or sleeping units.
Where there are four or more dwelling units or sleeping units in a single structure, the provisions of Chapter 11 of the International Building Code for Group R-3 shall apply.
Exception: Owner-occupied lodging houses with five or fewer guestrooms are not required to be accessible.
R322.2 Live/work units.
In live/work units, the nonresidential portion shall be accessible in accordance with Sections 508.5.9 and 508.5.11 of the International Building Code. In a building where there are four or more live/work units, the residential portion of the live/work unit shall comply with Section 1108.6.2.1 of the International Building Code.
Section R323 Elevators and Platform Lifts
R323.1 Elevators.
Where provided, limited-use and limited-application elevators or private residence elevators shall comply with ASME A17.1/CSA B44.
R323.1.1 Private residence elevators.
The design, construction and installation of private residence elevators installed within a residential unit or providing access to one individual dwelling unit shall conform to ASME A17.1/CSA B44, Section 5.3.
R323.1.1.3 Hoistway opening framing.
Limited-use/limited-application elevators or private residence elevators shall have hoistway landing openings that meet the Georgia amended requirements of ASME A17.1/CSA B44 Sections 5.3.1.1 through 5.3.1.7.2. The clearance between the hoistway doors or gates and the hoistway edge of the landing sill shall not exceed 3/4 inch (19 mm). The distance between the hoistway face of the landing door or gate and the car door or gate shall not exceed 3 inches (75 mm).
Section R324 Glazing
R324.1 Identification.
Except as indicated in Section R324.1.1 each pane of glazing installed in hazardous locations as defined in Section R324.4 shall be provided with a manufacturer’s designation specifying who applied the designation, the type of glass and the safety glazing standard with which it complies, and that is visible in the final installation. The designation shall be acid etched, sandblasted, ceramic-fired, laser etched, embossed, or be of a type that once applied cannot be removed without being destroyed. A label shall be permitted in lieu of the manufacturer’s designations.
Exceptions:
- 1.
For other than tempered glass, manufacturer’s designations are not required provided that the building official approves the use of a certificate, affidavit or other evidence confirming compliance with this code.
- 2.
Tempered spandrel glass is permitted to be identified by the manufacturer with a removable paper designation.
R324.1.1 Identification of multiple assemblies.
Multipane assemblies having individual panes not exceeding 1 square foot (0.09 m2) in exposed area shall have not less than one pane in the assembly identified in accordance with Section R324.1. Other panes in the assembly shall be labeled “CPSC 16 CFR 1201” or “ANSI Z97.1” as appropriate.
R324.2 Louvered windows or jalousies.
Regular, float, wired or patterned glass in jalousies and louvered windows shall be not less than nominal 3/16 inch (5 mm) thick and not more than 48 inches (1219 mm) in length. Exposed glass edges shall be smooth.
R324.2.1 Wired glass prohibited.
Wired glass with wire exposed on longitudinal edges shall not be used in jalousies or louvered windows.
R324.3 Human impact loads.
Individual glazed areas, including glass mirrors in hazardous locations such as those indicated as defined in Section R324.4, shall pass the test requirements of Section R324.3.1.
R324.3.1 Impact test.
Where required by other sections of the code, glazing shall be tested in accordance with CPSC 16 CFR 1201. Glazing shall comply with the test criteria for Category II unless otherwise indicated in Table R324.3.1(1).
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
NR = No Requirement.
R324.4 Hazardous locations.
The locations specified in Sections R324.4.1 through R324.4.7 shall be considered to be specific hazardous locations for the purposes of glazing.
R324.4.1 Glazing in doors.
Glazing in fixed and operable panels of swinging, sliding and bifold doors shall be considered to be a hazardous location.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Glazed openings of a size through which a 3-inch-diameter (76 mm) sphere is unable to pass.
- 2.
Decorative glazing.
R324.4.2 Glazing adjacent to doors.
Glazing in an individual fixed or operable panel adjacent to a door shall be considered to be a hazardous location where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) above the floor or walking surface and it meets either of the following conditions:
- 1.
Where the glazing is within 24 inches (610 mm) of either side of the door in the plane of the door in a closed position.
- 2.
Where the glazing is on a wall less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad) from the plane of the door in a closed position and within 24 inches (610 mm) of the hinge side of an in-swinging door.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Decorative glazing.
- 2.
Where there is an intervening wall or other permanent barrier between the door and the glazing.
- 3.
- 4.
Glazing that is adjacent to the fixed panel of patio doors.
R324.4.3 Glazing in windows.
Glazing in an individual fixed or operable panel that meets all of the following conditions shall be considered to be a hazardous location:
- 1.
The exposed area of an individual pane is larger than 9 square feet (0.836 m2).
- 2.
The bottom edge of the glazing is less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor.
- 3.
The top edge of the glazing is more than 36 inches (914 mm) above the floor.
- 4.
One or more walking surfaces are within 36 inches (914 mm), measured horizontally and in a straight line, of the glazing.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Decorative glazing.
- 2.
Where glazing is adjacent to a walking surface and a horizontal rail is installed 34 to 38 inches (864 to 965 mm) above the walking surface. The rail shall be capable of withstanding a horizontal load of 50 pounds per linear foot (730 N/m) without contacting the glass and have a cross-sectional height of not less than 1 1/2 inches (38 mm).
- 3.
Outboard panes in insulating glass units and other multiple glazed panels where the bottom edge of the glass is 25 feet (7620 mm) or more above grade, a roof, walking surfaces or other horizontal [within 45 degrees (0.79 rad) of horizontal] surface adjacent to the glass exterior.
R324.4.4 Glazing in guards and railings.
Glazing in guards and railings, including structural baluster panels and nonstructural in-fill panels, regardless of area or height above a walking surface shall be considered to be a hazardous location.
R324.4.4.1 Structural glass baluster panels.
Guards with structural glass baluster panels shall be installed with an attached top rail or handrail. The top rail or handrail shall be supported by not less than three glass baluster panels, or shall be otherwise supported to remain in place should one glass baluster panel fail.
Exception: An attached top rail or handrail is not required where the glass baluster panels are laminated glass with two or more glass plies of equal thickness and of the same glass type.
R324.4.5 Glazing and wet surfaces.
Glazing in walls, enclosures or fences containing or adjacent to hot tubs, spas, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs, showers and indoor or outdoor swimming pools where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) measured vertically above any standing or walking surface shall be considered to be a hazardous location. This shall apply to single glazing and each pane in multiple glazing.
Exception: Glazing that is more than 60 inches (1524 mm), measured horizontally, from the water’s edge of a bathtub, hot tub, spa, whirlpool or swimming pool or from the edge of a shower, sauna or steam room.
R324.4.6 Glazing adjacent to stairs and ramps.
Glazing installed where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the plane of the adjacent walking surface of flights of stairs, ramp runs, landings between flights of stairs and landings between ramp runs shall be considered to be in a hazardous location.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Where glazing is adjacent to a walking surface and a horizontal rail is installed at 34 to 38 inches (864 to 965 mm) above the walking surface. The rail shall be capable of withstanding a horizontal load of 50 pounds per linear foot (730 N/m) without contacting the glass and have a cross-sectional height of not less than 1 1/2 inches (38 mm).
- 2.
Glazing 36 inches (914 mm) or more measured horizontally from the walking surface.
R324.4.7 Glazing adjacent to the bottom stair landing.
Glazing adjacent to the landing at the bottom of a stairway where the glazing is less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the landing and within a 60-inch (1524 mm) horizontal arc less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad) from the bottom tread nosing shall be considered to be a hazardous location. (See Figure R324.4.7.)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
R324.6 Skylights and sloped glazing.
Skylights and sloped glazing shall comply with the following sections.
R324.6.2 Materials.
Glazing materials shall be limited to the following:
- 1.
Laminated glass with not less than a 0.015-inch (0.38 mm) polyvinyl butyral interlayer for glass panes 16 square feet (1.5 m2) or less in area located such that the highest point of the glass is not more than 12 feet (3658 mm) above a walking surface; for higher or larger sizes, the interlayer thickness shall be not less than 0.030 inch (0.76 mm).
- 2.
Fully tempered glass.
- 3.
Heat-strengthened glass.
- 4.
Wired glass.
- 5.
Approved rigid plastics.
R324.6.4 Screens with multiple glazing.
Where the inboard pane is fully tempered, heat-strengthened or wired glass, a broken glass retention screen meeting the requirements of Section R324.6.7 shall be installed below the full area of the glass, except for Condition 1 or 2 listed in Section R324.6.5. Other panes in the multiple glazing shall be of any type listed in Section R324.6.2.
R324.6.5 Screens not required.
Screens shall not be required where laminated glass complying with Item 1 of Section R324.6.2 is used as single glazing or the inboard pane in multiple glazing. Screens shall not be required where fully tempered glass is used as single glazing or the inboard pane in multiple glazing and either of the following conditions is met:
- 1.
The glass area is 16 square feet (1.49 m2) or less; the highest point of glass is not more than 12 feet (3658 mm) above a walking surface; the nominal glass thickness is not more than 3/16 inch (4.8 mm); and for multiple glazing only the other pane or panes are fully tempered, laminated or wired glass.
- 2.
The glass is sloped 30 degrees (0.52 rad) or less from vertical; and the highest point of glass is not more than 10 feet (3048 mm) above a walking surface.
R324.6.6 Glass in greenhouses.
Any glazing material is permitted to be installed without screening in the sloped areas of greenhouses, provided that the greenhouse height at the ridge does not exceed 20 feet (6096 mm) above grade.
R324.6.7 Screen characteristics.
The screen and its fastenings shall: be capable of supporting twice the weight of the glazing; be firmly and substantially fastened to the framing members; be installed within 4 inches (102 mm) of the glass; and have a mesh opening of not greater than 1 inch by 1 inch (25 mm by 25 mm).
R324.6.8 Curbs for skylights.
Unit skylights installed in a roof with a pitch of less than 3 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25 percent slope) shall be mounted on a curb extending not less than 4 inches (102 mm) above the plane of the roof, unless otherwise specified in the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R324.6.9 Testing and labeling.
Unit skylights and tubular daylighting devices shall be tested by an approved independent laboratory, and bear a label identifying manufacturer, performance grade rating and approved inspection agency to indicate compliance with the requirements of AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440.
R324.6.9.1 Comparative analysis for glass-glazed unit skylights.
Structural wind load design pressures for glass-glazed unit skylights different than the size tested in accordance with Section R324.6.9 shall be permitted to be different than the design value of the tested unit where determined in accordance with one of the following comparative analysis methods:
- 1.
Structural wind load design pressures for glass-glazed unit skylights smaller than the size tested in accordance with Section R324.6.9 shall be permitted to be higher than the design value of the tested unit provided that such higher pressures are determined by accepted engineering analysis. Components of the smaller unit shall be the same as those of the tested unit. Such calculated design pressures shall be validated by an additional test of the glass-glazed unit skylight having the highest allowable design pressure.
- 2.
Section R325 Light, Ventilation and Heating
R325.1 Habitable rooms.
Habitable space shall be provided natural light and natural ventilation in accordance with Sections R325.1.1 through R325.1.3.
R325.1.1 Natural light.
Habitable rooms shall have an aggregate area of glazed openings not less than 8 percent of the floor area of such rooms. Required glazed openings shall face directly onto a street, alley or public way, or a yard or court located on the same lot as the building.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Required glazed openings shall be permitted to face into a roofed porch, deck or patio adjacent to a street, alley, public way, yard or court, where the longer side of the roofed area is not less than 65 percent unobstructed and the ceiling height is not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).
- 2.
Required glazed openings shall be permitted to face into a sunroom adjacent to a street, alley, public way, yard or court.
- 3.
Glazed openings are not required where artificial light is provided that is capable of producing an average illumination of 6 footcandles (65 lux) over the area of the room at a height of 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor level.
- 4.
Eave projections shall not be considered as obstructing the clear open space of a yard or court.
R325.1.2 Natural ventilation.
Habitable rooms shall have an aggregate area openable to the outdoors not less than 4 percent of the floor area of such rooms. Openings shall be through windows, skylights, doors, louvers or other approved openings to the outdoor air. Such openings shall be provided with ready access or shall otherwise be readily controllable by the building occupants.
Exceptions:
- 1.
- 2.
- 3.
Required ventilation openings shall be permitted to open into a thermally isolated sunroom or roofed porch, deck, or patio where not less than 40 percent of the roofed area perimeter is open to the outdoor air.
- 4.
Required ventilation openings shall be permitted to open into a thermally isolated sunroom provided there is an openable area between the adjoining room and the sunroom of not less than one-tenth of the floor area of the interior room and not less than 20 square feet (1.9 m2). The minimum openable area of the sunroom to outdoor air shall be based on the total floor area of the adjoining room and the sunroom.
R325.1.3 Adjoining rooms.
For the purpose of determining light and ventilation requirements, rooms shall be considered to be a portion of an adjoining room where not less than one-half of the area of the common wall is open and unobstructed and provides an opening of not less than one-tenth of the floor area of the interior room and not less than 25 square feet (2.3 m2).
R325.2 Bathrooms.
Bathrooms, water closet compartments and other similar rooms shall be provided with aggregate glazing area in windows of not less than 3 square feet (0.3 m2), one-half of which shall be openable.
R325.3 Mechanical ventilation.
Where the air infiltration rate of a dwelling unit is 3 air changes per hour or less where tested with a blower door at a pressure of 0.2 inch w.c (50 Pa) in accordance with Section N1102.5.1, the dwelling unit shall be provided with whole-house mechanical ventilation in accordance with Section M1505.
R325.4 Opening location.
Outdoor intake and exhaust openings shall be located in accordance with Sections R325.4.1 and R325.4.2.
R325.4.1 Intake openings.
Mechanical and gravity outdoor air intake openings shall be located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from any hazardous or noxious contaminant, such as vents, chimneys, plumbing vents, streets, alleys, parking lots and loading docks.
For the purpose of this section, the exhaust from dwelling unit toilet rooms, bathrooms and kitchens shall not be considered as hazardous or noxious.
Exceptions:
- 1.
The 10-foot (3048 mm) separation is not required where the intake opening is located 3 feet (914 mm) or greater below the contaminant source.
- 2.
- 3.
R325.4.2 Exhaust openings.
Exhaust air shall not be directed onto walkways.
R325.5 Outside opening protection.
Air exhaust and intake openings that terminate outdoors shall be protected with corrosion-resistant screens, louvers or grilles having an opening size of not less than 1/4 inch (6 mm) and a maximum opening size of 1/2 inch (13 mm), in any dimension. Openings shall be protected against local weather conditions. Outdoor air exhaust and intake openings shall meet the provisions for exterior wall opening protectives in accordance with this code.
R325.6 Interior stairway illumination.
Interior stairways shall be provided with an artificial light source to illuminate the landings and treads. The light source shall be capable of illuminating treads and landings to levels of not less than 1 footcandle (11 lux) as measured at the center of treads and landings. There shall be a wall switch at each floor level to control the light source where the stairway has six or more risers.
Exception: A switch is not required where remote, central or automatic control of lighting is provided.
R325.7 Exterior stairway illumination.
Exterior stairways shall be provided with an artificial light source located at the top landing of the stairway. Exterior stairways providing access to a basement from the outdoor grade level shall be provided with an artificial light source located at the bottom landing of the stairway.
R325.8 Required heating.
Where the winter design temperature in Table R301.2 is below 60°F (16°C), every dwelling unit shall be provided with heating facilities capable of maintaining a room temperature of not less than 68°F (20°C) at a point 3 feet (914 mm) above the floor and 2 feet (610 mm) from exterior walls in habitable rooms at the design temperature. The installation of one or more portable space heaters shall not be used to achieve compliance with this section.
Section R326 Sanitation
R326.1 Toilet facilities.
Every dwelling unit shall be provided with a water closet, lavatory, and a bathtub or shower.
R326.2 Kitchen.
Each dwelling unit shall be provided with a kitchen area and every kitchen area shall be provided with a sink.
R326.3 Sewage disposal.
Plumbing fixtures shall be connected to a sanitary sewer or to an approved private sewage disposal system.
R326.4 Water supply to fixtures.
Plumbing fixtures shall be connected to an approved water supply. Kitchen sinks, lavatories, bathtubs, showers, bidets, laundry tubs and washing machine outlets shall be provided with hot and cold water.
R326.5 Exterior hose bibs, sill cocks or outside hydrants.
One and two-family dwellings shall have not less than two exterior hose bibs, sill cocks or outside hydrants with one being located on the side or rear of the structure.
R326.6 Construction worker toilet facilities.
Toilet facilities shall be provided for construction workers and such facilities shall be maintained in a sanitary condition. Construction worker toilet facilities of the non-sewer type shall conform to ANSI Z4.3.
Section R327 Toilet, Bath and Shower Spaces
R327.1 Space required.
Fixtures shall be spaced in accordance with Figure R327.1, and in accordance with the requirements of Section P2705.1.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
R327.2 Bathtub and shower spaces.
Bathtub and shower floors and walls above bathtubs with installed shower heads and in shower compartments shall be finished with a nonabsorbent surface. Such wall surfaces shall extend to a height of not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) above the floor.
Section R328 Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs
Section R329 Solar Energy Systems
R329.1 General.
Solar energy systems shall comply with the provisions of this section.
R329.3 Photovoltaic systems.
Photovoltaic (PV) systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections R329.3.1 through R329.8.1 and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The electrical portion of solar PV systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 70.
R329.3.1 Equipment listings.
Photovoltaic panels and modules shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703 or with both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction. Mounting systems listed and labeled in accordance with UL 2703 shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and their listings. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roof coverings and BIPV roof assemblies shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 7103.
R329.4 Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic systems.
Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems installed on or above the roof covering shall be designed and installed in accordance with this section.
R329.4.1 Structural requirements.
Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed to structurally support the system and withstand applicable gravity loads in accordance with Chapter 3. The roof on which these systems are installed shall be designed and constructed to support the loads imposed by such systems in accordance with Chapter 8.
R329.4.1.1 Roof load.
Portions of roof structures not covered with photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed for dead loads and roof loads in accordance with Sections R301.4 and R301.6. Portions of roof structures covered with photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed for the following load cases:
- 1.
- 2.
R329.5 Building-integrated photovoltaic systems.
Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections R329.5.1 through R329.5.2.
R329.5.1 BIPV roofing systems.
BIPV roofing systems shall comply with Section R905.15. BIPV roof panels shall comply with Section R905.16.
R329.6 Roof access and pathways.
Roof access, pathways and setback requirements shall be provided in accordance with Sections R329.6.1 through R329.6.2.1. Access and minimum spacing shall be required to provide emergency access to the roof, to provide pathways to specific areas of the roof, provide for smoke ventilation opportunity areas, and to provide emergency egress from the roof.
Exceptions:
- 1.
Detached, nonhabitable structures, including but not limited to detached garages, parking shade structures, carports, solar trellises and similar structures, shall not be required to provide roof access.
- 2.
Roof access, pathways and setbacks need not be provided where the code official has determined that rooftop operations will not be employed.
- 3.
These requirements shall not apply to roofs with slopes of 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (17 percent slope) or less.
- 4.
R329.6.1 Pathways.
Not fewer than two pathways, on separate roof planes from lowest roof edge to ridge and not less than 36 inches (914 mm) wide, shall be provided on all buildings. Not fewer than one pathway shall be provided on the street or driveway side of the roof. For each roof plane with a photovoltaic array, a pathway not less than 36 inches wide (914 mm) shall be provided from the lowest roof edge to ridge on the same roof plane as the photovoltaic array, on an adjacent roof plane, or straddling the same and adjacent roof planes. Pathways shall be over areas capable of supporting firefighters accessing the roof. Pathways shall be located in areas with minimal obstructions such as vent pipes, conduit, or mechanical equipment.
R329.6.2 Setback at ridge.
For photovoltaic arrays occupying not more than 33 percent of the plan view total roof area, not less than an 18-inch (457 mm) clear setback is required on both sides of a horizontal ridge. For photovoltaic arrays occupying more than 33 percent of the plan view total roof area, not less than a 36-inch (914 mm) clear setback is required on both sides of a horizontal ridge.
R329.6.2.1 Alternative setback at ridge.
Where an automatic sprinkler system is installed within the dwelling or townhouse in accordance with NFPA 13D or Section P2904, setbacks at ridges shall comply with one of the following:
- 1.
For photovoltaic arrays occupying not more than 66 percent of the plan view total roof area, not less than an 18-inch (457 mm) clear setback is required on both sides of a horizontal ridge.
- 2.
For photovoltaic arrays occupying more than 66 percent of the plan view total roof area, not less than a 36-inch (914 mm) clear setback is required on both sides of a horizontal ridge.
R329.6.3 Emergency escape and rescue openings.
Panels and modules installed on dwellings or townhouses shall not be placed on the portion of a roof that is below an emergency escape and rescue opening. A pathway not less than 36 inches (914 mm) wide shall be provided to the emergency escape and rescue opening.
R329.6.4 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems.
Where building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems are installed in a manner creating areas with electrical hazards that are hidden from view, markings shall be provided to identify the hazardous areas to avoid for ladder placement. The markings shall be reflective and be visible from grade beneath the eaves or other location approved by the fire code official.
R329.7 Elevated photovoltaic (PV) support structures.
Elevated PV support structures used as an accessory structure shall comply with either Section R329.7.1 or R329.7.2. Elevated PV support structures shall be considered a roof for the purposes of establishing the number of stories and fire separation distances.
R329.7.1 PV panels installed over open-grid framing or noncombustible deck.
Elevated PV support structures with PV panels installed over open-grid framing or over a noncombustible deck shall have PV panels tested, listed and labeled with a fire type rating in accordance with UL 1703 or with both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2. Photovoltaic panels marked “not fire rated” shall not be installed on elevated PV support structures.
R329.8 Ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems.
Ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R301.
R329.8.1 Fire separation distances.
Ground-mounted photovoltaic systems shall be subject to the fire separation distance requirements determined by the local jurisdiction.
Section R330 Energy Storage Systems
R330.1 General.
Energy storage systems (ESS) shall comply with the provisions of this section.
R330.2 Equipment listings.
Energy storage systems (ESS) shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 9540.
Exception: Where approved, repurposed unlisted battery systems from electric vehicles are allowed to be installed outdoors or in detached sheds located not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from exterior walls, property lines and public ways.
R330.3 Installation.
ESS shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and their listing.
R330.3.1 Spacing.
Individual units shall be separated from each other by not less than 3 feet (914 mm) except where other separation distances are specified by the ESS listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R330.4 Locations.
ESS shall be installed only in the following locations:
- 1.
Detached garages and detached accessory structures.
- 2.
- 3.
- 4.
Enclosed utility closets, basements, storage or utility spaces within dwelling units with finished or noncombustible walls and ceilings. Walls and ceilings of unfinished wood-framed construction shall be provided with not less than 5/8-inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum wallboard. Openings into the dwelling shall be equipped with solid wood doors not less than 1 3/8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, solid or honeycomb-core steel doors not less than 1 3/8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, or doors with a 20-minute fire protection rating. Doors shall be self-latching and equipped with a self-closing or an automatic-closing device. Penetrations through the required gypsum wallboard into the dwelling shall be protected as required by Section R302.11, Item 4.
ESS shall not be installed in sleeping rooms, or closets or spaces opening directly into sleeping rooms.
R330.5 Energy ratings.
Individual ESS units shall have a maximum rating of 20 kWh. The aggregate rating of the ESS shall not exceed:
- 1.
40 kWh within utility closets, basements and storage or utility spaces.
- 2.
80 kWh in attached or detached garages and detached accessory structures.
- 3.
80 kWh on exterior walls.
- 4.
80 kWh outdoors on the ground.
ESS installations exceeding the permitted individual or aggregate ratings shall be installed in accordance with Section 1207 of the International Fire Code.
R330.7 Fire detection.
Rooms and areas within dwelling units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section R310. A heat detector, listed and interconnected to the smoke alarms, shall be installed in locations within dwelling units and attached garages where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing.
R330.8 Protection from impact.
ESS installed in a location subject to vehicle damage shall be protected in accordance with Section R330.8.1 or R330.8.2 .
R330.8.1 Garages.
Where an ESS is installed in the normal driving path of vehicle travel within a garage, impact protection complying with Section R330.8.3 shall be provided. The normal driving path is a space between the garage vehicle opening and the interior face of the back wall to a height of 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished floor. The width of the normal driving path shall be equal to the width of the garage door opening. Impact protection shall also be provided for an ESS installed at either of the following locations (see Figure R330.8.1):
- 1.
On the interior face of the back wall and located within 36 inches (914 mm) to the left or to the right of the normal driving path.
- 2.
On the interior face of a side wall and located within 24 inches (610 mm) from the back wall and 36 inches (914 mm) of the normal driving path.
Exception: Where the clear height of the vehicle garage opening is 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm) or less, ESS installed not less than 36 inches (914 mm) above finished floor are not subject to vehicle impact protection requirements.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
R330.8.3 Impact protection options.
ESS protection shall comply with one of the following:
- 1.
Bollards constructed in accordance with one of the following:
- 1.1.
Minimum 48 inches (1219 mm) in length by 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter Schedule 80 steel pipe embedded in a concrete pier not less than 12 inches (305 mm) deep and 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter, with not less than 36 inches (914 mm) of pipe exposed, filled with concrete and spaced at a maximum interval of 5 feet (1524 mm). Each bollard shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from an ESS.
- 1.2.
Minimum 36 inches (914 mm) in height by 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter Schedule 80 steel pipe fully welded to a steel plate not less than 8 inches (203 mm) in length by 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) in thickness and bolted to a concrete floor by means of 4 1/2-inch (114 mm) concrete anchors imbedded not less than 3 inches (76 mm). Spacing shall be not greater than 60 inches (1524 mm), and each bollard shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from the ESS.
- 1.3.
Premanufactured steel pipe bollards filled with concrete and anchored in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions, with spacing not greater than 60 inches (1524 mm). Each bollard shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from the ESS.
- 1.1.
- 2.
Wheel barriers constructed in accordance with one of the following:
- 2.1.
Concrete or polymer 4 inches (102 mm) in height by 5 inches (127 mm) in width by 70 inches (1778 mm) in length, anchored to the concrete floor not less than every 36 inches (914 mm) and located not less than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the ESS. Concrete anchors not less than 3 1/2 inches (89 mm) in diameter with 3-inch (76 mm) embedment per barrier shall be used. Spacing between barriers shall be not greater than 36 inches (914 mm).
- 2.2.
Premanufactured wheel barriers shall be anchored in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
- 2.1.
- 3.
An approved method designed to resist an impact of 2,000 pounds per square foot (95 760 N/m2) in the direction of travel at 24 inches (610 mm) above grade.
R330.11 Documentation and labeling.
The following information shall be provided:
- 1.
A copy of the manufacturer’s installation, operation, maintenance and decommissioning instructions shall be provided to the owner or placed in a conspicuous location near the ESS equipment.
- 2.
A label on the installed system containing the contact information for the qualified maintenance and service providers.