2003 International Residential Code

2003 International Residential Code Overview

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 the International Plumbing Code.

Back Cover

Introduction

Internationally, code officials recognize the need for a modern, up-to-date residential code addressing the design and construction of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses. The International Residential Code, in this 2003 edition, is designed to meet these needs through model code regulations that safeguard the public health and safety in all communities, large and small.

This comprehensive, stand-alone residential code establishes minimum regulations for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses using prescriptive provisions. It is founded on broad-based principles that make possible the use of new materials and new building designs. This 2003 edition is fully compatible with all the International Codes (" I- Codes”) published by the International Code Council (ICC), including the International Building Code ICC Electrical Code, International Energy Conservation Code, International Existing Building Codes, International Fire Code International Fuel Gas Code, International Mechanical Code, ICC Performance Code, International Plumbing Code International Private Sewage Disposal Code International Property Maintenance Code, International Urban-Wildland Interface Code and International Zoning Code.

The International Residential Code provisions provide many benefits, among which is the model code development process that offers an international forum for residential construction professionals to discuss 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

The first edition of the International Residential Code (2000) was the culmination of an effort initiated in 1996 by a development committee appointed by the ICC and consisting of representatives of the three statutory members of the International Code Council: Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc. (BOCA), International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO) and Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI) and representatives from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The intent was to draft a comprehensive, stand-alone residential code consistent with and inclusive of the scope of the existing model codes. Technical content of the 1998 International One-and Two-Family Dwelling Code and the latest model codes promulgated by BOCA, ICBO, SBCCI and ICC was utilized as the basis for the development, followed by public hearings in 1998 and 1999 to consider proposed changes. This 2003 edition presents the code as originally issued, with changes approved through the ICC Code Development Process through 2002 and residential electrical revisions based on the 2002 National Electrical Code (NFPA-70). A new edition such as this is promulgated every three years.

Fuel gas provisions have been included through an agreement with the American Gas Association (AGA). Electrical provisions have been included through an agreement with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

With the development and publication of the family of International Codes in 2000, the continued development and maintenance of the model codes individually promulgated by BOCA ("BOCA National Codes"), ICBO ("Uniform Codes") and SBCCI ("Standard Codes") was discontinued. This 2003 International Residential Code, as well as its predecessor - the 2000 edition, is intended to be the successor residential code to those codes previously developed by BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI.

The development of a single set of comprehensive and coordinated family of International Codes was a significant milestone in the development of regulations for the built environment. The timing of this publication mirrors a milestone in the change in structure of the model codes, namely, the pending consolidation of BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI into the ICC. The activities and services previously provided by the individual model code organizations will be the responsibility of the consolidated ICC.

This code is founded on principles intended 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.

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 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 lnternational Residential Code is kept up to date through the review of proposed changes submitted by code enforcing 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.

The contents of this work are subject to change both through the Code Development Cycles and the governmental body that enacts the code into law. For more information regarding the code development process, contact the Code and Standard Development Department of the International Code Council.

The maintenance process for the fuel gas provisions is based upon the process used to maintain the International Fuel Gas Code, in conjunction with the American Gas Association. The maintenance process for the electrical provisions is undertaken by the National Fire Protection Association.

While the development procedure of the International Residential Code assures the highest degree of care, ICC and the founding members of ICC - 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 because ICC and its founding members do not have the 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.

Letter Designations in Front of Section Numbers

In each code development cycle, proposed changes to this code are considered at the Code Development Hearing by the International Residential Code Development Committee, whose action constitutes a recommendation to the voting membership for final action on the proposed change. Proposed changes to a code section whose number begins with a letter in brackets are considered by a different code development committee. For instance, proposed changes to code sections which have the letter [EB] in front (e.g., [EB] RI 02.7), are considered by the International Existing Building Code Development Committee at the Code Development Hearing. Where this designation is applicable to the entire content of a main section of the code, the designation appears at the main section number and title and is not repeated at every subsection in that section.

The content of sections in this code which begin with a letter designation are maintained by another code development committee in accordance with the following: [B] = International Building Code Development Committee; [E] = International Energy Conservation Code Development Committee; [EB] = International Existing Building Code Development Committee; [F] = International Fire Code Development Committee; [M] = International Mechanical Code Development Committee; and [P] = International Plumbing Code Development Committee.

Marginal Markings

Solid vertical lines in the margins within the body of the code indicate a technical change from the requirements of the 2000 edition. Deletion indicators are provided in the margin where a paragraph or item has been deleted.

2003 International Residential Code Contents

Part 1-Administrative, 1

CHAPTER 1 ADMINISTRATION, 1

Section
R101 Title, Scope and Purpose, 1
R102 Applicability, 1
R103 Department of Building Safety, 1
R104 Duties and Powers of the Building Official, 2
R105 Permits, 3
R106 Construction Documents, 4
R107 Temporary Structures and Uses, 5
R108 Fees, 5
R109 Inspections, 6
R110 Certificate of Occupancy, 6
R111 Service Utilities, 7
R112 Board of Appeals, 7
R113 Violations, 8
R114 Stop Work Order, 8
Part 11-Definitions, 9

CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS, 9

Section
R201 General, 9
R202 Definitions, 9
Part III-Building Planning and Construction, 23

CHAPTER 3 BUILDING PLANNING, 23

Section
R301 Design Criteria, 23
R302 Location on Lot, 44
R303 Light, Ventilation and Heating, 44
R304 Minimum Room Areas, 46
R305 Ceiling Height, 46
R306 Sanitation, 46
R307 Toilet, Bath and Shower Spaces, 46
R308 Glazing, 46
R309 Garages and Carports, 49
R310 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings, 50
R311 Means of Egress, 50
R312 Guards, 52
R313 Smoke Alarms, 52
R314 Foam Plastic, 53
R315 Flame Spread and Smoke Density, 54
R316 Insulation, 54
R317 Dwelling Unit Separation, 55
R318 Moisture Vapor Retarders, 56
R319 Protection Against Decay, 56
R320 Protection Against Termites, 57
R321 Site Address, 58
R322 Accessibility, 58
R323 Flood-resistant Construction, 58

CHAPTER 4 FOUNDATIONS, 61

Section
R401 General, 61
R402 Materials, 61
R403 Footings, 62
R404 Foundation Walls, 72
R405 Foundation Drainage, 83
R406 Foundation Waterproofing and Dampproofing, 84
R407 Columns, 84
R408 Under-floor Space, 84

CHAPTER 5 FLOORS, 87

Section
R501 General, 87
R502 Wood Floor Framing, 87
R503 Floor Sheathing, 96
R504 Pressure Preservatively Treated-wood
Floors (On Ground), 97
R505 Steel Floor Framing, 98
R506 Concrete Floors (On Ground), 108

CHAPTER 6 WALL CONSTRUCTION, 111

Section
R601 General, 111
R602 Wood Wall Framing, 111
R603 Steel Wall Framing, 130
R604 Wood Structural Panels, 152
R605 Particleboard, 152
R606 General Masonry Construction, 152
R607 Unit Masonry, 162
R608 Multiple Wythe Masonry, 163
R609 Grouted Masonry, 164
R610 Glass Unit Masonry, 166
R611 Insulating Concrete Form Wall Construction, 167
R612 Conventionally Formed Concrete
Wall Construction, 199
R613 Exterior Windows and Glass Doors, 199

CHAPTER 7 WALL COVERING, 203

Section
R701 General, 203
R702 Interior Covering, 203
R703 Exterior Covering, 206

CHAPTER 8 ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION, 215

Section
R801 General, 215
R802 Wood Roof Framing, 215
R803 Roof Sheathing, 240
R804 Steel Roof Framing, 240
R805 Ceiling Finishes, 250
R806 Roof Ventilation, 250
R807 Attic Access, 252
R808 Insulation Clearance, 252

CHAPTER 9 ROOF ASSEMBLIES, 253

Section
R901 General, 253
R902 Roof Classification, 253
R903 Weather Protection, 253
R904 Materials, 253
R905 Requirements for Roof Coverings, 254
R906 Roof Insulation, 261
R907 Reroofing, 261

CHAPTER 10 CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES, 263

Section
R1001 Masonry Chimneys, 263
R1002 Factory-built Chimneys, 267
R1003 Masonry Fireplaces, 267
R1004 Factory-built Fireplaces, 271
R1005 Exterior Air Supply, 271
R1006 Masonry Heaters, 272
Part IV-Energy Conservation, 273

CHAPTER 11 ENERGY EFFICIENCY, 273

Section
N1101 General, 273
N1102 Building Envelope, 283
N1103 Mechanical Systems, 286
N1104 Service Water Heating, 286
Part V-Mechanical, 289

CHAPTER 12 MECHANICAL ADMINISTRATION, 289

Section
M1201 General, 289
M1202 Existing Mechanical Systems, 289

CHAPTER 13 GENERAL MECHANICAL
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, 291

Section
M1301 General, 291
M1302 Approval, 291
M1303 Labeling of Appliances, 291
M1304 Type of Fuel, 291
M1305 Appliance Access, 291
M1306 Clearances from Combustible Construction, 292
M1307 Appliance Installation, 292
M1308 Mechanical Systems Installation, 293

CHAPTER 14 HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT, 297

Section
M1401 General, 297
M1402 Central Furnaces, 297
M1403 Heat Pump Equipment, 297
M1404 Refrigeration Cooling Equipment, 297
M1405 Baseboard Convectors, 297
M1406 Radiant Heating Systems, 297
M1407 Duct Heaters, 298
M1408 Vented Floor Furnaces, 298
M1409 Vented Wall Furnaces, 298
M1410 Vented Room Heaters, 299
M1411 Refrigeration Cooling Equipment, 299
M1412 Absorption Cooling Equipment, 300
M1413 Evaporative Cooling Equipment, 300
M1414 Fireplace Stoves, 300
M1415 Masonry Heaters, 300

CHAPTER 15 EXHAUST SYSTEMS, 301

Section
M1501 Clothes Dryers Exhaust, 301
M1502 Range Hoods, 301
M1503 Installation of Microwave Ovens, 301
M1504 Overhead Exhaust Hoods, 302
M1505 Exhaust Ducts, 302
M1506 Mechanical Ventilation, 302

CHAPTER 16 DUCT SYSTEMS, 303

Section
M1601 Duct Construction, 303
M1602 Return Air, 305

CHAPTER 17 COMBUSTION AIR, 307

Section
M1701 General, 307
M1702 All Air from Inside the Building, 307
M1703 All Air from Outdoors, 307

CHAPTER 18 CHIMNEYS AND VENTS, 315

Section
M1801 General, 315
M1802 Vent Components, 315
M1803 Chimney and Vent Connectors, 316
M1804 Vents, 317
M1805 Masonry and Factory-built Chimneys, 317

CHAPTER 19 SPECIAL FUEL-BURNING EQUIPMENT, 319

Section
M1901 Ranges and Ovens, 319
M1902 Sauna Heaters, 319
M1903 Stationary Fuel Cell Power Plants, 319

CHAPTER 20 BOILERS AND WATER HEATERS, 321

Section
M2001 Boilers, 321
M2002 Operating and Safety Controls, 321
M2003 Expansion Tanks, 321
M2004 Water Heaters Used for Space Heating, 321
M2005 Water Heaters, 321
M2006 Pool Heaters, 322

CHAPTER 21 HYDRONIC PIPING, 323

Section
M2101 Hydronic Piping Systems Installation, 323
M2102 Baseboard Convectors, 324
M2103 Floor Heating Systems, 324
M2104 Low Temperature Piping, 325
M2105 Ground Source Heat Pump System Loop Piping, 325

CHAPTER 22 SPECIAL PIPING AND STORAGE SYSTEMS, 327

Section
M2201 Oil Tanks, 327
M2202 Oil Piping, Fitting and Connections, 327
M2203 Installation, 327
M2204 Oil Pumps and Valves, 328

CHAPTER 23 SOLAR SYSTEMS, 329

Section
M2301 Solar Energy Systems, 329
Part VI-Fuel Gas, 331

CHAPTER 24 FUEL GAS, 331

Section
G2401 General, 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, 342
G2410 Electrical, 345
G2411 Bonding, 345
G2412 General, 345
G2413 Pipe Sizing, 345
G2414 Piping Materials, 352
G2415 Piping System Installation, 353
G2416 Piping Bends and Changes in Direction, 355
G2417 Inspection, Testing and Purging, 355
G2418 Piping Support, 356
G2419 Drips and Sloped Piping, 357
G2420 Gas Shutoff Valves, 357
G2421 Flow Controls, 357
G2422 Appliance Connections, 358
G2423 CNG Gas-dispensing Systems, 358
G2424 Piping Support Intervals, 358
62425 General, 358
G2426 Vents, 360
G2427 Venting of Equipment, 360
G2428 Sizing of Category I Appliance Venting Systems, 369
G2429 Direct-vent, Integral Vent, Mechanical Vent and
Ventilation/Exhaust Hood Venting, 380
G2430 Factory-built Chimneys, 380
G2431 General, 381
G2432 Decorative Appliances for Installation
in Fireplaces, 381
G2433 Log Lighters, 381
G2434 Vented Gas Fireplaces (Decorative Appliances), 381
G2435 Vented Gas Fireplace Heaters, 381
G2436 Vented Wall Furnaces, 381
G2437 Floor Furnaces, 381
G2438 Clothes Dryers, 382
G2439 Clothes Dryer Exhaust, 382
G2440 Sauna Heaters, 383
G2441 Pool and Spa Heaters, 383
G2442 Forced-air Warm-air Furnaces, 383
G2443 Conversion Burners, 384
G2444 Unit Heaters, 384
G2445 Unvented Room Heaters, 384
G2446 Vented Room Heaters, 385
G2447 Cooking Appliances, 385
G2448 Water Heaters, 385
G2449 Air Conditioning Equipment, 385
G2450 Illuminating Appliances, 385
G2451 Infrared Radiant Heaters, 386
G2452 Boilers, 386
G2453 Chimney Damper Opening Area, 386
Part VII-Plumbing, 387

CHAPTER 25 PLUMBING ADMINISTRATION, 387

Section
P2501 General, 387
P2502 Existing Plumbing Systems, 387
P2503 Inspection and Tests, 387

CHAPTER 26 GENERAL PLUMBING REQUIREMENTS, 389

Section
P2601 General, 389
P2602 Individual Water Supply and Sewage Disposal, 389
P2603 Structural and Piping Protection, 389
P2604 Trenching and Backfilling, 390
P2605 Support, 390
P2606 Waterproofing of Openings, 390
P2607 Workmanship, 390
P2608 Materials Evaluation and Listing, 390

CHAPTER 27 PLUMBING FIXTURES, 393

Section
P2701 Fixtures, Faucets and Fixture Fittings, 393
P2702 Fixture Accessories, 394
P2703 Tail Pieces, 394
P2704 Access to Connections, 394
P2705 Installation, 394
P2706 Waste Receptors, 394
P2707 Directional Fittings, 394
P2708 Showers, 395
P2709 Shower Receptors, 395
P2710 Shower Walls, 395
P2711 Lavatories, 395
P2712 Water Closets, 396
P2713 Bathtubs, 396
P2714 Sinks, 396
P2715 Laundry Tubs, 396
P2716 Food Waste Grinder, 396
P2717 Dishwashing Machines, 396
P2718 Clothes Washing Machine, 397
P2719 Floor Drains, 397
P2720 Whirlpool Bathtubs, 397
P2721 Bidet Installations, 397
P2722 Fixture Fitting, 397
P2723 Macerating Toilet Systems, 397
P2724 Specialty Temperature Control Devices
and Valves, 397

CHAPTER 28 WATER HEATERS, 399

Section
P2801 General, 399
P2802 Water Heaters Used for Space Heating, 399
P2803 Relief Valves, 399

CHAPTER 29 WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION, 401

Section
P2901 General, 401
P2902 Protection of Potable Water Supply, 401
P2903 Water-supply System, 403
P2904 Materials, Joints and Connections, 408
P2905 Changes in Direction, 412
P2906 Support, 412
P2907 Drinking Water Treatment Units, 412

CHAPTER 30 SANITARY DRAINAGE, 413

Section
P3001 General, 413
P3002 Materials, 413
P3003 Joints and Connections, 413
P3004 Determining Drainage Fixture Units, 416
P3005 Drainage System, 416
P3006 Sizing of Drain Pipe Offsets, 419
P3007 Sumps and Ejectors, 419
P3008 Backwater Valves, 419

CHAPTER 31 VENTS, 421

Section
P3101 Vent Systems, 421
P3102 Vent Stacks and Stack Vents, 421
P3103 Vent Terminals, 421
P3104 Vent Connections and Grades, 421
P3105 Fixture Vents, 422
P3106 Individual Vent, 423
P3107 Common Vent, 423
P3108 Wet Venting, 423
P3109 Waste Stack Vent, 423
P3110 Circuit Venting, 424
P3111 Combination Waste and Vent System, 424
P3112 Island Fixture Venting, 424
P3113 Vent Pipe Sizing, 432
P3114 Air Admittance Valves, 432

CHAPTER 32 TRAPS, 433

Section
P3201 Fixture Traps, 433
Part VIII-Electrical, 435

CHAPTER 33 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS, 435

Section
E3301 General, 435
E3302 Building Structure Protection, 435
E3303 Inspection and Approval, 435
E3304 General Equipment Requirements, 436
E3305 Equipment Location and Clearances, 436
E3306 Electrical Conductors and Connections, 438
E3307 Conductor and Terminal Identification, 438

CHAPTER 34 ELECTRICAL DEFINITIONS, 441

Section
E3401 General, 441

CHAPTER 35 SERVICES, 445

Section
E3501 General Services, 445
E3502 Service Size and Rating, 445
E3503 Service, Feeder and Grounding Electrode
           Conductor Sizing, 446
E3504 Overhead Service-drop and Service Conductor
           Installation, 447
E3505 Service-entrance Conductors, 449
E3506 Service Equipment-General, 450
E3507 System Grounding, 450
E3508 Grounding Electrode System, 450
E3509 Bonding, 451
E3510 Grounding Electrode Conductors, 452
E3511 Grounding Electrode Conductor Connection to the
           Grounding Electrodes, 453

CHAPTER 36 BRANCH CIRCUIT AND
FEEDER REQUIREMENTS, 455

Section
E3601 General, 455
E3602 Branch Circuit Ratings, 455
E3603 Required Branch Circuits, 456
E3604 Feeder Requirements, 457
E3605 Conductor Sizing and Overcurrent Protection, 458
E3606 Panelboards, 460

CHAPTER 37 WIRING METHODS, 463

Section
E3701 General Requirements, 463
E3702 Above-ground Installation Requirements, 463
E3703 Underaround Installation Requirements, 465

CHAPTER 38 POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION, 467

Section
E3801 Receptacle Outlets, 467
E3802 Ground-fault and Arc-fault Circuit-interrupter
Protection, 469
E3803 Lighting Outlets, 469
E3804 General Installation Requirements, 470
E3805 Boxes, Conduit Bodies and Fittings, 470
E3806 Installation of Boxes. Conduit Bodies and Fittings, 483
E3807 Cabinets and Panelboards, 484
E3808 Grounding, 485
E3809 Flexible Cords, 487

CHAPTER 39 DEVICES AND LIGHTING FIXTURES, 489

Section
E3901 Switches, 489
E3902 Receptacles, 489
E3903 Fixtures, 490
E3904 Fixture Installation, 492
E3905 Track Lighting, 492

CHAPTER 40 APPLIANCE INSTALLATION, 493

Section
E4001 General, 493

CHAPTER 41 SWIMMING POOLS, 495

Section
E4101 General, 495
E4102 Wiring Methods for Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs and
Hydromassage Bathtubs, 495
E4103 Equipment Location and Clearances, 497
E4104 Bonding, 498
E4105 Grounding, 499
E4106 Equipment Installation, 500
E4107 Storable Swimming Pools, 502
E4108 Spas and Hot Tubs, 503
E4109 Hydromassage Bathtubs, 503

CHAPTER 42 CLASS 2 REMOTE-CONTROL, SIGNALING AND POWER-LIMITED CIRCUITS, 505

Section
E4201 General, 505
E4202 Power Sources, 505
E4203 Wiring Methods, 505
E4204 Installation Requirements, 506
Part IX-Referenced Standards, 507

CHAPTER 43 REFERENCED STANDARDS, 507

Part X-Appendices, 525

APPENDIX A SIZING AND CAPACITIES OF GAS
PIPING, 525

APPENDIX B SIZING OF VENTING SYSTEMS SERVING APPLIANCES EQUIPPED WITH DRAFT HOODS, CATEGORY I APPLIANCES, AND APPLIANCES LISTED FOR USE AND TYPE B VENTS, 535

APPENDIX C EXIT TERMINALS OF MECHANICAL DRAFF AND DIRECT-VENT VENTING SYSTEMS, 545

APPENDIX D RECOMMENDED PROCEDURE FOR SAFETY INSPECTION OF AN EXISTING APPLIANCE INSTALLATION 547

APPENDIX E MANUFACTURED HOUSING USED AS DWELLINGS, 549

Section
AE101 Scope, 549
AE102 Application to Existing Manufactured Homes
and Building Service Equipment, 549
AE201 Definitions, 550
AE301 Permits, 550
AE302 Application for Permit, 550
AE303 Permits Issuance, 551
AE304 Fees, 552
AE305 Inspections, 552
AE306 Special Inspections, 553
AE307 Utility Service, 553
AE401 Occupancy Classification, 553
AE402 Location on Property, 553
AE501 Design, 553
AE502 Foundation Systems, 554
AE503 Skirting and Perimeter Enclosures, 554
AE504 Structural Additions, 554
AE505 Building Service Equipment, 555
AE506 Exits, 555
AE507 Occupancy, Fire safety and Energy
Conservation Standards, 555
AE600 Special Requirements for Foundation Systems, 555
AE601 Footings and Foundations, 555
AE602 Pier Construction, 555
AE603 Height of Piers., 555
AE604 Anchorage Installations, 556
A.E605 Ties, Materials and Installation, 556
AE606 Referenced Standards, 557

APPENDIX F RADON CONTROL METHODS, 559

Section
AE101 Scope, 559
AE102 Definitions, 559
AE103 Requirements, 559

APPENDIX G SWIMMING POOLS, SPAS AND HOT TUBS, 567

Section
AG101 General, 567
AG102 Definitions, 567
AG103 Swimming Pools, 567
AG104 Spas and Hot Tubs, 567
AG105 Barrier Requirements, 567
AG106 Entrapment Protection for Swimming Pool
and Spa Suction Outlets, 568
AG107 Abbreviations, 569
AG108 Standards, 569

APPENDIX H PATIO COVERS, 571

Section
AH101 General, 571
AH102 Definition, 571
AH103 Permitted Uses, 571
AH104 Design Loads, 571
AH105 Light and Ventilation/Emergency Egress, 571
AH106 Footings, 571
AH107 Special Provisions for Aluminum Screen
Enclosures in Hurricane-prone Regions, 571

APPENDIX I PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL, 573

Section
A1101 General, 573

APPENDIX J EXISTING BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES, 575

Section
AJ101 Purpose and Intent, 575
AJ102 Compliance, 575
AJ103 Preliminary Meeting, 575
AJ104 Evaluation of an Existing Building, 576
AJ105 Permit, 576
AJ201 Definitions, 576
AJ301 Repairs, 576
AJ401 Renovations, 577
AJ501 Alterations, 577
AJ601 Reconstruction, 578

APPENDIX K SOUND TRANSMISSION, 579

Section
AK101 General, 579
AK102 Airborne Sound, 579
AK103 Structural-home Sound, 579
AK104 Referenced Standards, 579

APPENDIX L INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE ELECTRICAL PROVISIONS/ NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE CROSS REFERENCE, 581

INDEX, 593

2003 International Residential Code Introduction

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.

Exception: Existing buildings undergoing repair, alteration or additions, and change of occupancy shall be permitted to comply with the International Repair Code

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.

[EB]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.

[EB]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 which do not project more than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.

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.
Portable fuel cell appliances that are not connected to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected to a power grid.

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.
Portable fuel cell appliances that are not connected to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected to a power grid.

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.

R105.3.1 Action on application. The building official shall examine or cause to be examined applications for permits and amendments thereto within a reasonable time after filing. If the application or the construction documents do not conform to the requirements of pertinent laws, the building official shall reject such application in writing, stating the reasons therefor. If the building official is satisfied that the proposed work conforms to the requirements of this code and laws and ordinances applicable thereto, the building official shall issue a permit therefor as soon as practicable.

R105.3.1.1 Substantially improved or substantially damaged existing buildings and structures. For applications for reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other improvement of existing buildings or structures located in an area prone to flooding as established by Table R301.2(l), the building official shall examine or cause to be examined the construction documents and shall prepare a finding with regard to the value of the proposed work. For buildings that have sustained damage of any origin, the value of the proposed work shall include the cost to repair the building or structure to its predamage condition. If the building official finds that the value of proposed work equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the building or structure, the finding shall be provided to the board of appeals for a determination of substantial improvement or substantial damage. Applications determined by the board of appeals to constitute substantial improvement or substantial damage shall meet the requirements of Section R323.

R105.3.2 Time limitation of application. An application for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned 180 days after the date of filing, unless such application has been pursued in good faith or a permit has been issued; except that the building official is authorized to grant one or more extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

R105.4 Validity of permit. The issuance or granting of a permit shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code or of any other ordinance of the jurisdiction. Permits presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid. The issuance of a permit based on construction documents and other data shall not prevent the building official from requiring the correction of errors in the construction documents and other data. The building official is also authorized to prevent occupancy or use of a structure where in violation of this code or of any other ordinances of this jurisdiction.

R105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

R105.6 Suspension or revocation. The building official is authorized to suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this code wherever the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete information, or in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of the provisions of this code.

R105.7 Placement of permit. The building permit or copy thereof shall be kept on the site of the work until the completion of the project.

R105.8 Responsibility. It shall be the duty of every person who performs work for the installation or repair of building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing systems, for which this code is applicable, to comply with this code.

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
The elevation of the bottom of the lowest horizontal structural member in a coastal high hazard areas (V Zone); 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 construction for code compliance

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

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Related Titles & References General Building Code IRC IBC

Related Titles & References
General Building Code IRC IBC