2000 (IRC) International Residential Code

2000 (IRC) International Residential Code: Overview

Replacing the CABO One- and Two-Family Dwelling Code, this book has the latest technological advances in building design and construction. Among the changes are provisions for steel framing and energy savings. Also contains mechanical, fuel gas and plumbing provisions that coordinate with the International Mechanical Code and International Plumbing Code.

Back Cover

Introduction

Internationally, code officials recognize the need for a modern, up-to-date residential construction code addressing the design and construction of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses. The International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings is designed to meet these needs through model code regulations that safeguard the public health and safety and consider dwelling affordability in all communities, large and small.

This comprehensive, stand-alone residential construction code, which incorporates approved changes from the 1999 code development cycle, establishes minimum regulations for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses using prescriptive provisions. Additionally, the International Residential Code is designed to be compatible with the BOCA National Codes published by Building Officials and Code Administrators International (BOCA), the Standard Codes published by the Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI), the Uniform Codes published by the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO), and all the International Codes published by the International Code Council (ICC).

The International Residential Code provides many benefits, among which is the model code development process that offers an international forum for construction professionals to discuss these prescriptive code requirements. This forum provides an excellent arena to debate proposed revisions. This model code also encourages international consistency in the application of provisions.

Development

On April 22, 1996, the ICC Board of Directors established the ICC/NAHB Task Force, charged with the examination of performance options of the CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code. The Board further stated that the "purpose is to identify the issues (including the process of code development after 1998) and develop an action plan to resolve the issues."

Subsequently, the ICC/NAHB Task Force recommended to the ICC Board that the "ICC develop and maintain a stand-alone residential code that will cover the construction of detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (i.e., townhouses) not more than three stories in height with separate means of egress. This code is to be called the International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings."

A code drafting committee was formed by the International Code Council. The intent of the code drafting committee was to develop a draft of a comprehensive residential code that is consistent with and inclusive of the scope and content of the existing model building codes and the International One- and Two-Family Dwelling Code.

The technical content of the 1998 International One- and Two-Family Dwelling Code, the other International Codes (including the International Building Code First Draft) and the latest building codes promulgated by BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI was the nucleus for the development of this document. Other sources of relevant technical information were also considered. While there were a great many similarities among the codes, careful consideration was given to identified differences. The code drafting committee used certain principles as guidance in the resolution of technical differences. The principles were based on the intent to establish provisions consistent with the scope of a residential code that adequately protects public health, safety and welfare; provisions that do not unnecessarily increase construction costs; provisions that do not restrict the use of new materials, products or methods of construction; and provisions that do not give preferential treatment to particular types or classes of materials, products or methods of construction.

Fuel gas provisions have been included in this edition through an agreement with the American Gas Association. The maintenance process for the fuel gas provisions of the International Residential Code will be undertaken by the International Fuel Gas Code Development Committee.

Electrical provisions have been included in this edition through an agreement with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The maintenance process for the electrical provisions of future International Residential Code editions will be undertaken by NFPA.

Adoption

The International Residential Code is available for adoption and use by jurisdictions internationally. Its use within a governmental jurisdiction is intended to be accomplished through adoption by reference in accordance with proceedings establishing the jurisdiction's laws. At the time of adoption, jurisdictions should insert the appropriate information in provisions requiring specific local information, such as the name of the adopting jurisdiction. These locations are shown in bracketed words in small capital letters in the code and in the sample adoption ordinance. The sample adoption ordinance on page v addresses several key elements of a code adoption ordinance, including the information required for insertion into the code text.

Maintenance

The International Residential Code is kept up to date through the review of proposed changes submitted by code enforcement officials, industry representatives, design professionals and other interested parties. Proposed changes are carefully considered through an open code development process in which all interested and affected parties may participate.

For more information regarding the code development process, contact BOCA, 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, Illinois 60478-5795; ICBO, 5360 Workman Mill Road, Whittier, California 90601-2298; or SBCCI, 900 Montclair Road, Birmingham, Alabama 35213-1206.

While the development procedure of the International Residential Code ensures the highest degree of care, BOCA, ICBO, SBCCI, their members and those participating in the development of this code do not accept any liability resulting from compliance or noncompliance with the provisions given herein, for any restrictions imposed on materials or processes, or for the completeness of the text. BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI do not have power or authority to police or enforce compliance with the contents of this code. Only the governmental body that enacts the code into law has such authority.

2000 (IRC) International Residential Code: Contents

Part I - Administration 1

R101 Title, Scope and Purpose, 1
R102 Applicability, 1
R103 Department of Building Safety, 1
R104 Duties and Powers of the Building Official, 1
R105 Permits, 2
R106 Construction Documents, 4
R107 Temporary Structures and Uses, 5
R108 Fees, 5
R109 Inspections, 5
R110 Certificate of Occupancy, 6
R111 Service Utilities, 7
R112 Board of Appeals, 7
R113 Violations, 7
R114 Stop Work Order, 8

Part II - Definitions 9


R202 Definitions, 9

Part III - Building Planning and Construction 21


R302 Location on Lot, 42
R303 Light, Ventilation and Heating, 42
R304 Minimum Room Areas, 43
R305 Ceiling Height, 43
R306 Sanitation, 43
R307 Toilet, Bath and Shower Spaces, 44
R308 Glazing, 45
R309 Garages and Carports, 46
R310 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings, 47
R311 Exits, 47
R312 Landings, 47
R313 Ramps, 48
R314 Stairways, 48
R315 Handrails, 49
R316 Guards, 49
R317 Smoke Alarms, 49
R318 Foam Plastic, 50
R319 Flame Spread and Smoke Density, 50
R320 Insulation, 50
R321 Dwelling Unit Separation, 51
R322 Moisture Vapor Retarders, 52
R323 Protection Against Decay, 52
R324 Protection Against Termites, 53
R325 Site Address, 54
R326 Accessibility, 54
R327 Flood-resistant Construction 54


R402 Materials, 57
R403 Footings, 58
R404 Foundation Walls, 66
R405 Foundation Drainage, 76
R406 Foundation Waterproofing and Dampproofing, 76
R407 Columns, 78
R408 Under-floor Space, 78


R502 Wood Floor Framing, 79
R503 Floor Sheathing, 86
R504 Pressure Preservatively Treated-wood Floors (On Ground), 88
R505 Steel Floor Framing 88
R506 Concrete Floors (On Ground) 101

R601 General, 103
R602 Wood Wall Framing, 103
R603 Steel Wall Framing, 122
R604 Wood Structural Panels, 165
R605 Particleboard, 165
R606 General Masonry Construction, 165
R607 Unit Masonry, 173
R608 Multiple Wythe Masonry, 175
R609 Grouted Masonry, 175
R610 Glass Unit Masonry, 177
R611 Insulating Concrete Form Wall Construction, 179
R612 Conventionally Formed Concrete Wall Construction, 198
R613 Exterior Windows and Glass Doors, 198


R702 Interior Covering, 201
R703 Exterior Covering, 204


R802 Wood Roof Framing, 213
R803 Roof Sheathing, 237
R804 Steel Roof Framing, 237
R805 Ceiling Finishes, 248
R806 Roof Ventilation, 249
R807 Attic Access, 249
R808 Insulation Clearance, 249


R902 Roof Classification, 251
R903 Weather Protection, 251
R904 Materials, 251
R905 Requirements for Roof Coverings, 252
R906 Roof Insulation, 259
R907 Reroofing, 259


R1002 Factory-built Chimneys, 265
R1003 Masonry Fireplaces, 265
R1004 Factory-built Fireplaces, 269
R1005 Exterior Air Supply, 269

Part IV - Energy Conservation 271


N1102 Building Envelope, 281
N1103 Mechanical Systems, 284
N1104 Service Water Heating, 284

Part V - Mechanical 287


M1202 Existing Mechanical Systems 287


M1302 Approval, 289
M1303 Labeling of Appliances, 289
M1304 Type of Fuel, 289
M1305 Appliance Access, 289
M1306 Clearances from Combustible Construction, 290
M1307 Appliance Installation, 290
M1308 Mechanical Systems Installation, 291


M1402 Central Furnaces, 295
M1403 Heat Pump Equipment, 295
M1404 Refrigeration Cooling Equipment, 295
M1405 Baseboard Convectors, 295
M1406 Radiant Heating Systems, 295
M1407 Duct Heaters, 296
M1408 Vented Floor Furnaces, 296
M1409 Vented Wall Furnaces, 296
M1410 Vented Room Heaters, 297
M1411 Refrigeration Cooling Equipment, 297
M1412 Absorption Cooling Equipment, 297
M1413 Evaporative Cooling Equipment, 298
M1414 Fireplace Stoves, 298


M1502 Range Hoods, 299
M1503 Installation of Microwave Ovens, 299
M1504 Overhead Exhaust Hoods, 299
M1505 Exhaust Ducts, 299


M1602 Return Air, 303
M1603 Supply Air, 303


M1702 All Air form in side the Building, 305
M1703 All Air from Outdoors, 305


M1802 Vent Components, 315
M1803 Chimney and Vent Connectors, 316
M1804 Vents, 317
M1805 Masonry and Factory-built Chimneys, 317


M1902 Sauna Heaters, 319


M2002 Operating and Safety Controls, 321
M2003 Expansion Tanks, 321
M2004 Water Heaters Used for Space Heating, 321
M2005 Water Heaters, 322
M2006 Pool Heaters, 322


M2102 Baseboard Convectors, 323
M2103 Floor Heating Systems, 323
M2104 Low Temperature Piping, 323
M2105 Ground Source Heat Pump System Loop Piping, 324


M2202 Oil Piping, Fitting and Connections, 327
M2203 Installation, 327
M2204 Oil Pumps and Valves, 328

Part VI - Fuel Gas 331


G2402 General, 331
G2403 General Definitions, 331
G2404 General, 336
G2405 Structural Safety, 337
G2406 Appliance Location, 337
G2407 Combustion, Ventilation and Dilution Air, 337
G2408 Installation, 341
G2409 Clearance Reduction, 341
G2410 Electrical, 344
G2411 General, 344
G2412 Pipe Sizing, 345
G2413 Piping Materials, 347
G2414 Piping System Installation, 349
G2415 Piping Bends and Changes in Direction, 350
G2416 Inspection, Testing and Purging, 350
G2417 Piping Support, 352
G2418 Drips and Sloped Piping, 352
G2419 Gas Shutoff Valves, 352
G2420 Flow Controls, 352
G2421 Appliance Connections, 353
G2422 CNG Gas-dispensing Systems, 353
G2423 Piping Support Intervals 353
G2424 General 353
G2425 Vents, 355
G2426 Venting of Equipment, 355
G2427 Sizing of Category I Appliance Venting Systems, 364
G2428 Direct-vent, Integral Vent, Mechanical Vent and Ventilation/Exhaust Hood Venting, 373
G2429 Factory-built Chimneys, 373
G2430 General, 373
G2431 Decorative Appliances for Installation in Fireplaces, 374
G2432 Log Lighters, 374
G2433 Vented Decorative Appliances, 374
G2434 Vented Wall Furnaces, 374
G2435 Floor Furnaces, 374
G2436 Clothes Dryers, 375
G2437 Clothes Dryer Exhaust, 375
G2438 Sauna Heaters, 375
G2439 Pool and Spa Heaters, 376
G2440 Forced-air Warm-air Furnaces, 376
G2441 Conversion Burners, 377
G2442 Unit Heaters, 377
G2443 Unvented Room Heaters, 377
G2444 Vented Room Heaters, 377
G2445 Cooking Appliances, 377
G2446 Water Heaters, 378
G2447 Air Conditioning Equipment 378
G2448 Illuminating Appliances, 378
G2449 Infrared Radiant Heaters, 378
G2450 Boilers, 378
G2451 Chimney Damper Opening Area, 379

Part VII - Plumbing 381


P2502 Existing Plumbing Systems, 381
P2503 Inspection and Tests, 381


P2602 Individual Water Supply and Sewage Disposal, 383
P2603 Structural and Piping Protection, 383
P2604 Trenching and Backfilling, 383
P2605 Support, 384
P2606 Waterproofing of Openings, 384
P2607 Workmanship, 384
P2608 Materials Evaluation and Listing, 384


P2702 Fixture Accessories, 387
P2703 Tail Pieces, 387
P2704 Access to Connections, 387
P2705 Installation, 387
P2706 Waste Receptors, 387
P2707 Directional Fittings 388
P2708 Showers, 388
P2709 Shower Receptors, 389
P2710 Shower Walls, 389
P2711 Lavatories, 389
P2712 Water Closets, 389
P2713 Bathtubs, 390
P2714 Sinks, 390
P2715 Laundry Tubs, 390
P2716 Food-waste Grinder, 390
P2717 Dishwashing Machines, 390
P2718 Clothes Washing Machine, 390
P2719 Floor Drains, 390
P2720 Whirlpool Bathtubs, 390
P2721 Bidet Installations, 391
P2722 Fixture Fitting 391
P2723 Macerating Toilet Systems, 391


P2802 Water Heaters Used for Space Heating, 393
P2803 Relief Valves, 393


P2902 Protection of Potable Water Supply, 395
P2903 Water-supply System, 396
P2904 Materials, Joints and Connections, 401
P2905 Changes in Direction, 403
P2906 Support, 403
P2907 Drinking Water Treatment Units, 403


P3002 Materials, 405
P3003 Joints and Connections, 405
P3004 Determining Drainage Fixture Units, 408
P3005 Drainage System, 408
P3006 Sizing of Drain Pipe Offsets, 411
P3007 Sumps and Ejectors, 411
P3008 Backwater Valves, 411


P3102 Vent Stacks and Stack Vents, 413
P3103 Vent Terminals, 413
P3104 Vent Connections and Grades, 413
P3105 Fixture Vents, 414
P3106 Individual Vent, 414
P3107 Common Vent, 415
P3108 Wet Venting, 415
P3109 Waste Stack Vent, 415
P3110 Circuit Venting, 415
P3111 Combination Waste and Vent System, 416
P3112 Island Fixture Venting, 416
P3113 Vent Pipe Sizing, 416
P3114 Air Admittance Valves, 417

Part VIII - Electrical 427


E3302 Building Structure Protection, 427
E3303 Inspection and Approval, 427
E3304 General Equipment Requirements, 427
E3305 Equipment Location and Clearances, 428
E3306 Electrical Conductors and Connections, 430
E3307 Conductor and Terminal Identification, 430


E3502 Service Size and Rating, 437
E3503 Service, Feeder and Grounding Electrode Conductor Sizing, 438
E3504 Overhead Service-drop and Service Conductor Installation, 439
E3505 Service-entrance Conductors, 441
E3506 Service Equipment--General, 442
E3507 System Grounding, 442
E3508 Grounding Electrode System, 442
E3509 Bonding, 443
E3510 Grounding Electrode Conductors, 444
E3511 Grounding Electrode Conductor Connection to the Grounding Electrodes, 444


E3602 Branch Circuit Ratings, 447
E3603 Required Branch Circuits, 448
E3604 Feeder Requirements, 449
E3605 Conductor Sizing and Overcurrent Protection, 450
E3606 Panelboards, 452

E3701 General Requirements, 453
E3702 Above-ground Installation Requirements, 453
E3703 Underground Installation Requirements, 453


E3802 Ground-fault and Arc-fault Circuit-interrupter Protection, 461
E3803 Lighting Outlets, 461
E3804 General Installation Requirements, 461
E3805 Boxes, Conduit Bodies and Fittings, 462
E3806 Installation of Boxes, Conduit Bodies and Fittings, 474
E3807 Cabinets and Panelboards, 476
E3808 Grounding, 476
E3809 Flexible Cords, 478


E3902 Receptacles, 479
E3903 Fixtures, 480
E3904 Fixture Installation, 482
E3905 Track Lighting, 482

E4001 General, 483


E4102 Wiring Methods for Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs and Hydromassage Bathtubs, 485
E4103 Equipment Location and Clearances, 486
E4104 Bonding, 488
E4105 Grounding, 489
E4106 Equipment Installation, 490
E4107 Storable Swimming Pools, 492
E4108 Spas and Hot Tubs, 492
E4109 Hydromassage Bathtubs, 493


E4202 Power Sources, 495
E4203 Wiring Methods, 495
E4204 Installation Requirements, 496

Part IX - Referenced Standards 497

Chapter 43 Referenced Standards 497

Part X - Appendices 511

Sizing and Capacities of Gas Piping 511

Sizing of Venting Systems Serving Appliances Equipped With Draft Hoods, Category I Appliances, and Appliances Listed For Use and Type B Vents 515

Exit Terminals Of Mechanical Draft And Direct-Vent Venting Systems 525

Recommended Procedure For Safety Inspection Of An Existing Appliance Installation 527

Manufactured Housing Used As Dwellings 529

AE102 Application to Existing Manufactured Homes and Building Service Equipment, 529
AE201 Definitions, 530
AE301 Permits, 530
AE302 Application for Permit, 530
AE303 Permits Issuance, 531
AE304 Fees, 531
AE305 Inspections, 532
AE306 Special Inspections, 533
AE307 Utility Service, 533
AE401 Occupancy Classification, 533
AE402 Location on Property, 533
AE501 Design, 533
AE502 Foundation Systems, 534
AE503 Skirting and Perimeter Enclosures, 534
AE504 Structural Additions, 534
AE505 Building Service Equipment, 534
AE506 Exits, 534
AE507 Occupancy, Firesafety and Energy Conservation Standards, 535
AE600 Special Requirements for Foundation Systems, 535
AE601 Footings and Foundations, 535
AE602 Pier Construction, 535
AE603 Height of Piers, 535
AE604 Anchorage Installations, 535
AE605 Ties, Materials and Installation, 536

Radon Control Methods 537

AF102 Definitions, 537
AF103 Requirements, 537

Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs 545
AG101 General, 545
AG102 Definitions, 545
AG103 Swimming Pools, 545
AG104 Spas and Hot Tubs, 545
AG105 Barrier Requirements, 545
AG106 Abbreviations, 546
AG107 Standards, 546

Patio Covers 547

AH102 Definition, 547
AH103 Permitted Uses, 547
AH104 Design Loads, 547
AH105 Light and Ventilation/Emergency Egress, 547
AH106 Footings, 547

Private Sewage Disposal 549

Existing Buildings and Structures 551

AJ102 Compliance, 551
AJ103 Preliminary Meeting, 551
AJ104 Evaluation of an Existing Building, 551
AJ105 Permit, 552
AJ201 Definitions, 552
AJ301 Repairs, 552
AJ401 Renovations, 553
AJ501 Alterations, 553
AJ601 Reconstruction, 554

Sound Transmission 555

AK102 Airborne Sound, 555
AK103 Structural-borne Sound, 55

Index 557

2000 (IRC) International Residential Code: Introduction

Part I - Administrative

Chapter 1
Administration

Section R101
Title, Scope And Purpose

R101.1 Title. These provisions shall be known as the Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings of [NAME OF JURISDICTION], and shall be cited as such and will be referred to herein as "this code."

R101.2 Scope. The provisions of the International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, removal and demolition of detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures.

R101.3 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to provide minimum requirements to safeguard life or limb, health and public welfare.

Section R102
Applicability

R102.1 General. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable.

R102.2 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law.

R102.3 Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers, or to provisions not specifically identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section or provision of this code.

R102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference. Where differences occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.

Exception: Where enforcement of a code provision would violate the conditions of the listing of the equipment or appliance, the conditions of the listing and manufacturer's instructions shall apply.

R102.5 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.

R102.6 Partial invalidity. In the event any part or provision of this code is held to be illegal or void, this shall not have the affect of making void or illegal any of the other parts or provisions.

R102.7 Existing structures. The legal occupancy of any structure existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is specifically covered in this code, the International Property Maintenance Code or the International Fire Code, or as is deemed necessary by the building official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.

R102.7.1 Additions, alterations or repairs. Additions, alterations or repairs to any structure shall conform to that required for a new structure without requiring the existing structure to comply with all of the requirements of this code, unless otherwise stated. Additions, alterations or repairs shall not cause an existing structure to become unsafe or adversely affect the performance of the building.

Section R103
Department of Building Safety

R103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. The department of building safety is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the building official.

R103.2 Appointment. The building official shall be appointed the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.

R103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the building official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy building official, the related technical officers, inspectors, plan examiners and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the building official.

Section R104
Duties and Powers of the Building Official

R104.1 General. The building official is hereby authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of this code. The building official shall have the authority to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures shall be in conformance with the intent and purpose of this code. Such policies and procedures shall not have the ,effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.

R104.2 Applications and permits. The building official shall receive applications, review construction documents and issue permits for the erection and alteration of buildings and structures, inspect the premises for which such permits have been issued and enforce compliance with the provisions of this code.

R104.3 Notices and orders. The building official shall issue all necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this code.

R104.4 Inspections. The building official is authorized to make all of the required inspections, or the building official shall have the authority to accept reports of inspection by approved agencies or individuals. Reports of such inspections shall be in writing and be certified by a responsible officer of such approved agency or by the responsible individual. The building official is authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed necessary to report upon unusual technical issues that arise, subject to the approval of the appointing authority.

R104.5 Identification. The building official shall carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises in the performance of duties under this code.

R104.6 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the building official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a structure or upon a premises a condition which is contrary to or in violation of this code which makes the structure or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the building official or designee is authorized to enter the structure or premises at reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed by this code, provided that if such structure or premises be occupied that credentials be presented to the occupant and entry requested. If such structure or premises be unoccupied, the building official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of the structure or premises and request entry. If entry is refused, the building official shall have recourse to the remedies provided by law to secure entry.

R104.7 Department records. The building official shall keep official records of applications received, permits and certificates issued, fees collected, reports of inspections, and notices and orders issued. Such records shall be retained in the official records for the period required for the retention of public records.

R104.8 Liability. The building official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered liable personally and is hereby relieved from personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act or by reason of an act or omission in the discharge of official duties. Any suit instituted against an officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code shall be defended by legal representative of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The building official or any subordinate shall not be liable for cost in any action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.

R104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the building official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.

R104.9.1 Used materials and equipment. Used materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless approved by the building official.

R104.10 Modifications. Wherever there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the building official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, provided the building official shall first find that special individual reason makes the strict letter of this code impractical and the modification is in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not lessen health, life and fire safety requirements or structural. The details of action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the files of the department of building safety.

R104.10.1 Areas prone to flooding. The building official shall not grant modifications to any provision related to areas prone to flooding as established by Table R301.2(l) without the granting of a variance to such provisions by the board of appeals.

R104.11 Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code. Compliance with the specific performance-based provisions of the International Code Council (ICC) codes in lieu of specific requirements of this code shall also be permitted as an alternate.

R104.11.1 Tests. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of this code, or evidence that a material or method does not conform to the requirements of this code, or in order to substantiate claims for alternative materials or methods, the building official shall have the authority to require tests as evidence of compliance to be made at no expense to the jurisdiction. Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by other recognized test standards. In the absence of recognized and accepted test methods, the building official shall approve the testing procedures. Tests shall be performed by an approved agency. Reports of such tests shall be retained by the building official for the period required for retention of public records.

Section R105
Permits

R105.1 Required. Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.

R105.2 Work exempt from permit. Permits shall not be required for the following. Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.

Building:

One-story detached accessory structures, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 m^2).
Fences not over 6 feet (1829 mm) high.
Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.
Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18927 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above adjacent grade and not over any basement or story below.
Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep.
Swings and other playground equipment accessory to a one- or two-family dwelling.
Window awnings supported by an exterior wall.

Electrical:
Repairs and maintenance: A permit shall not be required for minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.

Gas:

Portable heating, cooking or clothes drying appliances.
Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.

Mechanical:

Portable heating appliance.
Portable ventilation appliances.
Portable cooling unit.
Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.
Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
Portable evaporative cooler.
Self-contained refrigeration systems containing 10 pounds (4.54 kg) or less of refrigerant or that are actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less.

Plumbing:
The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe; provided, however, that if any concealed trap, drainpipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, such work shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in this code.

The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures, and the removal and reinstallation of water closets, provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.

R105.2.1 Emergency repairs. Where equipment replacements and repairs must be performed in an emergency situation, the permit application shall be submitted within the next working business day to the building official.

R105.2.2 Repairs. Application or notice to the building official is not required for ordinary repairs to structures, replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles. Such repairs shall not include the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal or cutting of any structural beam or load bearing support, or the removal or change of any required means of egress, or rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the egress requirements; nor shall ordinary repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any, water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electric wiring or mechanical or other work affecting public health or general safety.

R105.2.3 Public service agencies. A permit shall not be required for the installation, alteration or repair of generation, transmission, distribution, metering or other related equipment that is under the ownership and control of public service agencies by established right.

R105.3 Application for permit. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefor in writing on a form furnished by the department of building safety for that purpose. Such application shall:

Identify and describe the work to be covered by the permit for which application is made.
Describe the land on which the proposed work is to be done by legal description, street address or similar description that will readily identify and definitely locate the proposed building or work.
Indicate the use and occupancy for which the proposed work is intended.
Be accompanied by construction documents and other information as required in Section R106.1.
State the valuation of the proposed work.
Be signed by the applicant, or the applicant's authorized agent.
Give such other data and information as required by the building official.

Section R106
Construction Documents

R106.1 Submittal documents. Construction documents, special inspection and structural observation programs, and other data shall be submitted in one or more sets with each application for a permit. The construction documents shall be prepared by a registered design professional where required by the statutes of the jurisdiction in which the project is to be constructed. Where special conditions exist, the building official is authorized to require additional construction documents to be prepared by a registered design professional.

Exception: The building official is authorized to waive the submission of construction documents and other data not required to be prepared by a registered design professional if it is found that the nature of the work applied for is such that reviewing of construction documents is not necessary to obtain compliance with this code.

R106.1.1 Information on construction documents. Construction documents shall be drawn upon suitable material. Electronic media documents are permitted to be submitted when approved by the building official. Construction documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as determined by the building official.

R106.1.2 Manufacturer's installation instructions. Manufacturer's installation instructions, as required by this code, shall be available on the job site at the time of inspection.

R106.1.3 Information for construction in areas prone to flooding. For buildings and structures in flood hazard areas as established by Table R301.2(1), construction documents shall include:

Delineation of flood hazard areas, floodway boundaries, and flood zones, and the design flood elevation, as appropriate;
The elevation of the proposed lowest floor, including basement; in areas of shallow flooding (AO zones), the height of the proposed lowest floor, including basement, above the highest adjacent grade; and
If design flood elevations are not included on the community's Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), the building official and the applicant shall obtain and reasonably utilize any design flood elevation and floodway data available from other sources.

R106.2 Site plan. The construction documents submitted with the application for permit shall be accompanied by a site plan showing the size and location of new construction and existing structures on the site and distances from lot lines. In the case of demolition, the site plan shall show construction to be demolished and the location and size of existing structures and construction that are to remain on the site or plot.

R106.3 Examination of documents. The building official shall examine or cause to be examined the accompanying construction documents and shall ascertain by such examinations whether the construction indicated and described is in accordance with the requirements of this code and other pertinent laws or ordinances.

R106.3.1 Approval of construction documents. When the building official issues a permit, the construction documents shall be approved in writing or by stamp. One set of construction documents so reviewed shall be retained by the building official. The other set shall be returned to the applicant, shall be kept at the site of work and shall be open to inspection by the building official or his or her authorized representative.

R106.3.2 Previous approvals. This code shall not require changes in the construction documents, construction or designated occupancy of a structure for which a lawful permit has been heretofore issued or otherwise lawfully authorized, and the construction of which has been pursued in good faith within 180 days after the effective date of this code and has not been abandoned.

R106.3.3 Phased approval. The building official is authorized to issue a permit for the construction of foundations or any other part of a building or structure before the construction documents for the whole building or structure have been submitted, provided that adequate information and detailed statements have been filed complying with pertinent requirements of this code. The holder of such permit for the foundation or other parts of a building or structure shall proceed at the holder's own risk with the building operation and without assurance that a permit for the entire structure will be granted.

R106.4 Amended construction documents. Work shall be installed in accordance with the reviewed construction documents, and any changes made during construction that are not in compliance with the approved construction documents shall be resubmitted for approval as an amended set of construction documents.

R106.5 Retention of construction documents. One set of approved construction documents shall be retained by the building official for a period of not less than 180 days from date of completion of the permitted work, or as required by state or local laws.

Section R107
Temporary Structures and Uses

R107.1 General. The building official is authorized to issue a permit for temporary structures and temporary uses. Such permits shall be limited as to time of service, but shall not be permitted for more than 180 days. The building official is authorized to grant extensions for demonstrated cause.

R107.2 Conformance. Temporary structures and uses shall conform to the structural strength, fire safety, means of egress, light, ventilation and sanitary requirements of this code as necessary to ensure the public health, safety and general welfare.

R107.3 Temporary power. The building official is authorized to give permission to temporarily supply and use power in part of an electric installation before such installation has been fully completed and the final certificate of completion has been issued. The part covered by the temporary certificate shall comply with the requirements specified for temporary lighting, heat or power in the ICC Electrical Code.

R107.4 Termination of approval. The building official is authorized to terminate such permit for a temporary structure or use and to order the temporary structure or use to be discontinued.

Section R108
Fees

R108.1 Payment of fees. A permit shall not be valid until the fees prescribed by law have been paid. Nor shall an amendment to a permit be released until the additional fee, if any, has been paid.

R108.2 Schedule of permit fees. On buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems or alterations requiring a permit, a fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with the schedule as established by the applicable governing authority.

R108.3 Building permit valuations. Building permit valuation shall include total value of the work for which a permit is being issued, such as electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing equipment and other permanent systems, including materials and labor.

R108.4 Related fees. The payment of the fee for the construction, alteration, removal or demolition for work done in connection with or concurrently with the work authorized by a building permit shall not relieve the applicant or holder of the permit from the payment of other fees that are prescribed by law.

R108.5 Refunds. The building official is authorized to establish a refund policy.

Section R109
Inspections

R109.1 Types of inspections. For on-site construction, from time to time the building official, upon notification from the permit holder or his agent, shall make or cause to be made any necessary inspections and shall either approve that portion of the construction as completed or shall notify the permit holder or his or her agent wherein the same fails to comply with this code.

R109.1.1 Foun

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