HomeMy WebLinkAbout074 - - AMENDING CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE II, DIVISION 2, OF THE CITY CODE FOR THE PURPOSE OF REPEALING THE 2012 IORDINANCE NO. 074, 2017
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AMENDING CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE II, DIVISION 2, OF THE CODE
OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS FOR THE PURPOSE OF REPEALING THE
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE(IRC), AND ADOPTING THE
2015 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE, WITH AMENDMENTS
r
WHEREAS, since 1924, the City has reviewed, amended and adopted the latest
nationally recognized building standards available for the times; and
WHEREAS, upon recommendation of City staff, the City Council has determined that it
is in the best interests of the City to align the five interconnected basic construction codes under
one publication year; and
l
WHEREAS, the five interconnected basic construction codes are the International
Building Code, International Residential Code, International Mechanical Code, International
Fuel Gas Code, and International Energy Conservation Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that the 2015 publication year of the five
interconnected basic construction codes ought to be adopted and that their counterpart codes
previously adopted should be repealed, both in order to align the publication years of the codes
and also because the 2015 publications contain improvements in construction code regulation;
and
WHEREAS, City staff has conducted a significant public outreach program, working
with the regulated construction industry and building professionals; and
WHEREAS, the adoption of the five interconnected basic construction codes has been
presented to and recommended by the Affordable Housing Board, the Commission on Disability,
the Air Quality Advisory Board, the Natural Resources Advisory Board, the Building Review
Board, the Electric Board, the Landmark Preservation Commission and the Water Board; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it is in the best interest of the health,
safety and welfare of the City and its citizens that the 2012 International Residential Code, as
previously adopted and amended by the City pursuant to Ordinance 020, 2014, be repealed, and
that in its place, the 2015 International Residential Code, be adopted, with local amendments as
set forth in this Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the City Charter II, Section 7, City Council may enact any
ordinance which adopts a code by reference in whole or in part provided that before adoption of
such ordinance the Council hold a public hearing thereon and that notice of the hearing is
published twice in a newspaper of general circulation published in the City, with one of such
publications occurring at least eight (8) days preceding the hearing and the other publication
occurring at least fifteen (15) days preceding the hearing; and
WHEREAS, in compliance with Article H,-Section 7, the City Clerk published in the Fort
Collins Coloradoan such notice of hearing concerning adoption of the 2015 International
Residential Code on May 21, 2017, and May 28, 2017; and
1
c
WHEREAS, attached as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein by reference is the Notice
of Public Hearing dated May 14, 2107, that was so published and which the Council hereby finds
meets the requirements of Article II, Section 7 of the City Charter. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS as follows:
Section 1. That Section 5-26(d) of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
d) Pursuant to the power and authority conferred on the City Council by Section 31-
16-202, C.R.S., and Article 11, Section 7 of the Charter, the City Council hereby repeals the 241-2
Edition of the International Residential Code; and adopts, as the residential building code of the
City, the 2015 International Residential Code published by the International Code Council, as
amended by the City, which shall have the same force and effect as though set forth in full
herein. The subject matter of the International Residential Code adopted herein includes
comprehensive provisions and standards for the protection of the public health and safety by
prescribing regulations governing the construction, alteration, enlargement, relocation,
replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, removal and demolition of, and its
applicability is hereby limited to, individual nonattached one- and two-family dwellings and
multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three (3) stories above grade in
height with a separate means of egress, and their accessory structures. As provided in the 2015
International Residential Code, Appendices are not adopted except as expressly set forth in
Section 5-30.
Section 2. That Section 5-30 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
repealed and reenacted to read as follows:
Sec. 5-30 Amendments and deletions to code.
The 2015 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE adopted herein is hereby amended in the
following respects:
f
1) Section RIOI.I Title, is hereby retained in its entirety with the following amendments:
R101.1 Title. These provisions shall be known as the Residential Code for One- and
Two-family Dwellings of the City of Fort Collins and shall be cited as such and will be
referred to herein as "this code."
2) Section RI02.4 Referenced codes and standards, is hereby retained in its entirety with
the following amendments:
R102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this
code shall be those that are listed in Section 101.4, entitled `Referenced Codes' of the
adopted International Building Code and shall be considered part of the requirements of
this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in
Sections R102.4.1 and R102.4.2.
2
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.
3) Section R103 Department of Building Safety, is hereby deleted in its entirety and the
following is hereby added in lieu thereof:
R103 Code Administration.
R103.1 Entity charged with code administration shall be as determined in accordance
with Section 103, entitled `Code Administration' of the adopted International Building
Code.
4) Section R105.2 Work exempt from permit, is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
Building:
1.One-story, detached, accessory structures for lawn and garden equipment storage,
tool storage and similar uses, as well as arbors, pergolas, and similar structures,
provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet (11.15 m2)or 8 feet (2.438
m) in height, do not house flammable liquids in quantities exceeding 10 gallons
38 1) per building and are located at least 3 feet (0.914 m) from an adjoining
property line.
2. Fences not over 6 feet (1829 mm) high.
3. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the
low side grade to the top of the wall, provided the horizontal distance to the next
uphill retaining wall is at least equal to the total height of the lower retaining wall,
unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II or IIIA liquids.
4. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000
gallons (18,927 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2
to 1.
5. Platforms intended for human occupancy or walking, sidewalks and driveways
not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above adjacent grade, and are not part of an
accessible route.
6. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish
work.
3
7.Prefabricated and portable swimming or wading pools, hot tubs or spas supported
directly upon grade when the walls are entirely above grade and which cannot
contain water more than 24 inches (610 mm) deep.
8.Swings and other playground equipment, or play house/structure not exceeding
120 square feet. One elevated play house or play structure per lot designed and
used exclusively for play. Elevated play houses or play structures shall not exceed
64 square feet (5.9 m2) of floor area nor 6 feet (1.82 m) in height measured from
the floor to the highest point of such structure.
9. 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
and do not extend over the public right of way. Window replacement requiring no
structural alteration or no change in the window configuration which reduces the
clear opening and when such work is determined not to be historically significant,
storm window, storm door and rain gutter installation.
10. Decks that are not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade at any point, are
not attached to a dwelling and do not serve the exit door required by Section
R311.4.
11. Roofing repair or replacement work not exceeding one square (100 square feet) of
covering per building.
12. Replacement of nonstructural siding, when removal of siding is performed in
accordance with State laws regarding asbestos and lead paint.
13. Work valued at less than $500 when such work does not involve alteration of
structural components, fire-rated assemblies, plumbing, electrical, mechanical or
fire-extinguishing systems.
14. Decorative ponds, fountains and pools that cannot contain water more than 24
inches (610 mm) deep.
15. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not
including service systems. Hoop houses constructed with a flexible frame such as
PVC tubing used for starting plants.
5) Section R105.3.2 Time limitation of application, is hereby retained in its entirety with
the following amendments:
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 provided the application has not expired and is
4
considered an active application. The extension shall be requested in writing and
justifiable cause demonstrated. Applications that have expired for 30 days or more will be
considered as null and void and all plans discarded.
6) Section R105.5 Expiration, is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
Section 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.
Both prior to and subsequent to the effective date of this code, any work authorized by a
permit regulated by this code or any other.building construction code administered by the
building official that involves the construction or alteration of an exterior building
component, assembly or finish material, such as the foundation, wall and roof framing,
sheathing, siding, fenestration, and roof covering, shall be fully finished and completed
for permanent outdoor exposure within 24 months of date of this issuance of such permit.
7) A new Section R105.10 Premises identification, is hereby added to read as follows:
R105.10 Premises identification during construction. The approved permit number
and street address number shall be displayed and be plainly visible and legible from the
public street or road fronting the property on which any new building is being
constructed.
8) A new Section R105.11 Transfer ofpermits, is hereby added to read as follows:
R105.11 Transfer of permits. A current valid building permit may be transferred from
one party to another upon written application to the building official. When any changes
are made to the original plans and specifications that substantially differ from the plans
submitted with the permit, as determined by the building official, a new plan review fee
shall be paid as calculated in accordance with Section R108. A fee of$50 shall be paid
to cover administrative costs for all building permit transfers. No change shall be made
in the expiration date of the original permit.
9) Section R106.1.4 Information for construction in flood hazard areas, is hereby deleted
in its entirety and the following is hereby added in lieu thereof:
R106.1.4 Information for construction in flood hazard areas. For buildings or
structures regulated under the scope of this code that are in whole or in part located in
flood hazard areas, construction documents shall be submitted as established in
accordance with the City Code, Chapter 10, entitled `Flood Prevention and Protection'.
5
10) Anew Section R106.1.5 Grading performance plans and certificate, is hereby added to
read as follows:
R106.1.5 Grading performance plans and certificate. Every building permit
application for a new building regulated by this code shall be accompanied by a site
drainage/grading performance plan as prescribed by City standards. Drainage plans shall
be submitted to and approved by the City's Storm Drainage department prior to the
issuance of the permit.
11) Section R106.3.1 Approval of construction documents, is hereby retained in its entirety
with the following amendments:
R106.3.1 Approval of construction documents. Where the building official issues a
permit, the construction documents shall be approved in writing or by a stamp that
indicates the approved permit number. 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
a duly authorized representative.
12) Section RI07, Temporary Structures and Uses, is deleted in its entirety.
13) Section R108, Fees, is hereby deleted in its entirety and the following is hereby added in
lieu thereof:
R108 Fees
R108.1 Payment of fees. All items relating to fees shall be as specified and in
accordance with Section 109 Fees of the adopted International Building Code, as
amended by the City.
14) A new Section R109.1.7 Site Survey required, is hereby added to read as follows:
R109.1.7 Site survey required. A survey or improvement location certificate of the site
on which a new building or addition is to be constructed may be required by the building
official to verify that the structure is located in accordance with the approved plans and
any other regulations of the City.
15) A new Section R110.2 Change in use, is hereby amended to read as follows:
R110.2 Change in use. Changes in the character, use, or occupancy of an existing
structure shall not be made except when approved by the building official and the
structure is in conformance with this code and the International Building Code, as
amended by the City.
16) Section R112, Board of Appeals, is hereby deleted in its entirety and the following is
hereby added in lieu thereof:
6
R112 Board of Appeals
R112.1 General. Appeals of decisions, determinations and interpretations of this code
shall be made pursuant to applicable provisions as set forth in Section 113, entitled
Board-of Appeals' of the International Building Code, as amended by the City.
17) Section R113.4 Violation penalties, is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to
comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a
building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of
the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions,of this code,
shall be guilty of a misdemeanor subject to the penalties and fines pursuant to Section 1-
15 of the City Code, punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 or by imprisonment
not exceeding 180 days, or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation
continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
18) A new Section R113.5 Work commencing before permit issuance, is hereby added to
read as follows:
R113.5 Work commencing before permit issuance. In addition to penalties set forth in
R113.4, any person or firm who, before obtaining the necessary permit(s), commences
any construction of, or work on, a building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical or
plumbing system that is not otherwise exempted from obtaining a permit, shall be subject
to a processing and penalty fee in addition to the standard prescribed permit fee. Such
additional fee shall be equal to the permit fee, except that such fee shall not be less than
50 nor more than $1,000 for the first such violation. A person or firm committing such
violation repeatedly is subject to processing and penalty fees equal to double the amount
of the permit fee or double the amount of the preceding violation, whichever is greater,
for every same such subsequent violation committed thereafter within any 180-day
period. The foregoing fees may be appealed to the City Manager pursuant to Chapter 2,
Article VI of the City Code.
19) Section R202 Definitions, is hereby amended to delete, modify, or add, in alphabetical
order, the following definitions:
BASEMENT. That portion of a building located partly or completely below grade,
wherein the underside of the floor system immediately above is 72 inches (1829 mm) or
more above the surface of an approved permanent basement floor system.
CITY. The municipal corporation of. Fort Collins, Colorado, including its physical
location and boundaries.
7
CRAWLSPACE. That portion of a building that is conditioned or non-conditioned
space located partly or completely below grade (excluding the under-floor space beneath
below-grade structural floor systems), wherein the underside of the adjacent finished
floor above is less than 72 inches (1829 mm) above the bottom surface of such
crawlspace.
DWELLING. Shall mean a building used exclusively for residential occupancy and for
permitted accessory uses, including single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings and
multi-family dwellings. The term dwelling shall not include hotels, motels, homeless
shelters, seasonal overflow shelters tents or other structures designed or used primarily
for temporary occupancy. Any dwelling shall be deemed to be a principal building.
DWELLING UNIT. Shall mean one or more rooms and a single kitchen and at least 1
bathroom, designed, occupied or intended for occupancy as separate quarters for the
exclusive use of a single family for living, cooking and sanitary purposes, located in a
single-family, two-family or multi-family dwelling or mixed-use building.
FAMILY. shall mean any individual living alone or any number of persons who are all
related by blood, marriage, adoption, guardianship or other duly authorized custodial
relationship, and who live together as a single housekeeping unit and share common
living, sleeping, cooking and eating facilities.
FLOOR AREA. The area included within the surrounding exterior walls of a building
or portion thereof, exclusive of vent shafts and courts. The floor area of a building, or
portion thereof, not provided with surrounding exterior walls shall be the usable area
under the horizontal projection of the roof or floor above.
GRADE. (ADJACENT GROUND ELEVATION). The lowest point of elevation of the
finished surface of the ground, paving or sidewalk, deck or platform with the area
between the building and the property line or, when the property line is more than 5 feet
1.524 m) from the building, between the building and a line 5 feet (1.524 m) from the
building.
ROOM, SLEEPING (BEDROOM). A habitable space within a dwelling or other
housing unit designed primarily for the purpose of sleeping. The presence of a bed, cot,
mattress, convertible sofa or other similar furnishing used for sleeping purposes is indicia
for determining that such space or room qualifies as a sleeping room. The presence of
closets and similar storage facilities is not considered a relevant factor in determining
whether or not a room is a sleeping room.
8
SITE. A parcel of land bounded by a property line or a designated portion of a public
right-of-way.
TOWNHOUSE: A single-family dwelling unit constructed in a group of two or more
attached individual units, each of which is separated from the other from the foundation
to the roof and is located entirely on a separately recorded and platted parcel of land (site)
bounded by property lines that is deeded exclusively for such single-family dwelling.
20) Section 301.1.3 Engineered design, is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R301.1.3 Engineered design. When a building of otherwise conventional light-frame
construction contains structural elements not conforming to this code, these elements
shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice. The extent of such
design need only demonstrate compliance of nonconventional elements with other
applicable provisions and shall be compatible with the performance of the conventional
framed system. Engineered design, in accordance with the International Building Code,
as amended by the City,"is permitted for all buildings, structures, and portions thereof
included in the scope of this code.
21) Section R301.2(1), Climatic and geographic design criteria, is hereby deleted in its
entirety and the following is hereby added in lieu thereof:
ROOF WIND SEISMIC SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM WINTER AIR MEAN FLOOD`
SNOW SPEED' DESIGN DESIGN FREEZ- ANN- HAZARDS
LOAD MPH CATE- TEMP ING UAL
GORY INDEX
Weatheringa Roof Ice` Frost line Termite Decay" TEMP.
Darmning depth
30psf 100 Nom 30 inches Slight to None to +6° F July 16,
1436.4p 129 Ult B Severe Yes (762mm) Moderate Slight (-14°C) 906 48.4 1979
a)
For SI:°C=[(°F)-321/1.8.
a.Weathering may require a higher strength concrete or grade of masonry than necessary to satisfy the structural
requirements of this code. The weathering column is based on the weathering index (i.e., "severe") for concrete as
determined from the Weathering Probability Map [Figure R301.2(3)]. The grade of masonry units shall be determined
from ASTM C 34,C 55,C 62,C 73,C 90,C 129,C 145,C 216 or C 652.
b.Wind exposure category shall be determined on a site-specific basis in accordance with Section R301.2.1.4.
C.Based on the average daily temperature in January greater than 25'F(4°C)or where the history of local damage from the
effects of ice damming is not substantial.
d.None to slight in accordance with Figure R301.2(7).
e. Date of the City's entry into the National Flood Insurance Program(date of adoption of the first code or ordinance for
management of flood hazard areas),or the date(s)of the currently effective FIRM and FBFM,or other flood hazard map
adopted by the community. I
9
f. 100-year return period air fivezing index(BF-days)from Figure R403.3(2)or from the 100-year(99 percent)value on the
National Climatic Data Center data table Air Freezing Index- USA Method (Base 32" Fahrenheit) at
www.ncdc.noaa.gov/fpsf.httill.
g.Mean annual temperature from the National Climatic Data Center data table"Air Freezing Index-USA Method(Base 32"
Fahrenheit)at www.ncdc.noaa.gov/fpsf.htm].
22) A new Section R301.2.1.5.2 Basic wind speed, is hereby added to read as follows:
R301.2.1.5.2 Basic wind speed. The Special Wind Region as indicated on Figure
R301.2(4) of this code shall apply using a basic wind speed, 100 miles per hour (161 kph)
Vasd or 129 miles per hour (208 kph) Vult, based on the exposure category as described in
Section R301.2.1.4, or the equivalent pressure thereto.
23) Section R302.1 Exterior walls, is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R302.1 Exterior walls. Construction, projections, openings and penetrations of exterior
walls of dwellings and accessory buildings shall comply with Table R302.1 (1) as
amended.
Exceptions:
1. Walls, projections, openings or penetrations in walls perpendicular to the line
used to determine the fire separation distance.
2. Walls of dwellings and accessory structures located on the same lot.
3.Detached tool sheds and storage • sheds, playhouses and similar structures
exempted from permits are not required to provide wall protection based on
location on the lot. Projections beyond the exterior wall shall not extend over the
lot line.
4. Detached garages accessory to,a dwelling located within 2 feet (610 mm) of a lot
line are permitted to have roof cave projections not exceeding 4 inches (102 mm).
5.Foundation vents installed in compliance with this code are permitted.
24) A new Section R302.1.1 Exterior wall finish materials, is hereby added to read as
follows:
R302.1.1 Exterior wall finish materials Walls of dwellings located within the fire
separation distance (location from property line) of 0 feet to less than 5 feet shall be
constructed of exterior finishes containing cementitious materials.
Exception: Dwellings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section P2904 or NFPA 13D.
10
25) Table R302.1(1) Exterior Walls, is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
1
TABLE R302.1(1) EXTERIOR WALLS
MINIMUM FIRE-RESISTANCE
MINIMUM FIRE
EXTERIOR WALL ELEMENT
RATING
SEPARATION
DISTANCE
1 HOUR-TESTED IN
LESS THAN 3
FIRE-RESISTANCE RATED
ACCORDANCE WITH ASTM E 119
FEET
OR UL 263 WITH EXPOSURE
WALLS
FROM BOTH SIDES
NOT FIRE RESISTANCE
0 HOURS
3 FEET OR MORE
RATED
FIRE-RESISTANCE RATED 1 HOUR ON THE UNDERSIDE
2 TO
PROJECTIONS
3 FEET
NOT ALLOWED N/A
LESS THAN 2
FEET
NOT ALLOWED N/A
LESS THAN 3
OPENINGS IN FEET
WALLS
UNLIMITED
0 HOURS 3 FEET OR MORE
COMPLY WITH SECTION LESS THAN 3
PENETRATIONS ALL
R302.4 FEET
NONE REQUIRED 3 FEET OR MORE
For S L 1 foot=304.8
N/A=Not Applicable.
a. Roof cave fire-resistance rating shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 hours on the underside of the cave if fireblocking is provided from
the wall top plate to the underside of the roof sheathing.
b. Roof cave fire-resistance rating shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 hours on the underside of the cave provided that gable vent
openings are not installed.
26) Table R302.1(2) Exterior Walls-Dwellings with Fire Sprinklers, is hereby deleted in its
entirety:
27) Section R302.2.1 Continuity is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R302.2.1 Continuity. The fire-resistance-rated common wall or assembly separating
townhouses along property lines shall be continuous from the foundation to the underside
of the roof sheathing, deck or slab. The fire-resistance rating shall extend the full length
of the wall or assembly, including wall extensions through and separating attached and/or
enclosed accessory structures or spaces. The fire-resistance-rating shall be maintained
within concealed spaces of projecting elements such as, roof overhangs, canopies,
marquees and similar projections. The fire- resistant rated adjoining walls shall extend to
11
the outer edge of horizontal projecting elements such as balconies which extend more
than 24 inches beyond the exterior wall.
28) Section R302.3 Two-family dwellings is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R302.3 Two-family dwellings. Two-family dwellings shall be provided with a fire-
suppression system as per P2904 at a minimum. Dwelling units in two-family dwellings
shall be separated from each other by wall and/or floor assemblies having not less than a
one-hour fire-resistance rating when tested in accordance with ASTME 119 or UL 263.
Fire-resistance-rated floor-ceiling and wall assemblies shall extend to and be tight against
the exterior wall, and wall assemblies shall extend from the foundation to the underside
of the roof sheathing.
Exceptions:
1. A fire-resistance rating of '/z hour shall be permitted in buildings equipped
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with NFPA
13.
2. Wall assemblies need not extend through attic spaces when the ceiling is
protected by not less than 5/8-inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum board and an attic
draft stop constructed as specified in Section R302.12.1 is provided above and
along the wall assembly separating the dwellings. The structural framing
supporting the ceiling shall also be protected by not less than 1/2-inch (12.7 mm)
gypsum board or equivalent.
29) Section R308.4.5 Glazing and wet surfaces is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
R308.4.5 Glazing and wet surfaces. Glazing in walls, enclosures or fences containing or
facing hot tubs, spas, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs, showers and indoor or
outdoor swimming pools where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60
inches (1524 mm) shall be considered a hazardous location. This shall apply to single
glazing and all panes in multiple glazing.
Exception: Glazing that is more than 48 inches (1219 mm), measured horizontally and in
a straight line, from the water's edge of a bathtub, shower, hot tub, spa, whirlpool, or
swimming pool or from the edge of a shower, sauna or steam room and not less than 48
inches measured vertically above any standing or walking surface.
30) Section R308.4.7 Glazing adjacent to the bottom stair landing is hereby retained in its
entirety with the following amendments:
R308.4.7 Glazing adjacent to stair landings. Glazing adjacent to the stair landings
where the glazing is less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the landing and within a 60,inch
12
1524 mm) horizontal are less than 180 degrees of the top or bottom tread shall be
considered a hazardous location.
Exception: The glazing is protected by a guard complying with Section R312 and the
plane of the glass is more than 18 inches (457 mm) from the guard.
31) Section R310.1 Emergency escape and rescue opening required is hereby retained in its
entirety with the following amendments:
R310.1 Emergency escape and rescue opening"required Basements, habitable attics,
habitable lofts and mezzanines, and every sleeping room, shall have not less than one
operable emergency escape and rescue opening. Where basements contain one or more
sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be required in each
sleeping room. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall open directly into a public
way, or to a yard or court that opens to a public way.
Exception: Storm shelters and basements used only to house mechanical equipment not
exceeding a total floor area of 200 square feet (18.58 m2).
32) Section R310.2.2 Window sill height is'hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R310.2.2 Window sill height Where a window is provided as the emergency escape and
rescue opening, it shall have a sill height of not more than 44 inches (1118 mm) above
the floor; where the sill height is below grade, it shall be provided with a window well in
accordance with Section R310.2.3. Emergency escape and rescue window openings that
are located more than 72 inches (1829 mm) above the finished grade shall have a sill
height of not less than 24 inches (609 mm) measured from the finished interior side floor.
Exception: Emergency escape and rescue openings located over a roof surface with a
slope of 4:12 or less and extending a minimum of 5 feet horizontally outward from the
window.
33) Section R310.2.3 Window wells is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R310.2.3.•Window wells. The horizontal area of the window well shall be not less than 9
square feet (0.9m2), with a horizontal projection and width of not less than 36 inches
914 mm).The area of the window well .shall allow the emergency escape and rescue
opening to be fully opened.
13
Exceptions:
1.The ladder or steps required by,Section R310.2.3.1 shall be permitted to encroach
not more than 6 inches (152 mm) into the required dimensions of the window
well.
2. With the window in the full open position, the bottom window well step may
encroach a maximum of 12 inches (304 mm) into the,minimum horizontal
projection, provided the well meets the following criteria:
a. The bottom of the well is not less than 36 inches wide (914 mm), centered
horizontally on the openable portion of the emergency escape and rescue
door or window, and
b. An unobstructed clear horizontal projection of 36 inches (914 mm) is
maintained at the centerline of the openable portion of the emergency
escape and rescue door or window.
C.Window well steps shall not exceed a rise of 16 inches maximum and the
step run shall be 4 inches minimum.
34) Section R310.2.3.2 Drainage is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R310.2.3.2 Drainage. All window wells shall be designed for proper drainage by
connecting to the building's foundation drainage system required by Section R405.1 or
by an approved alternative method. The inlet to the drainage system shall be a minimum
of 4 inches (101 mm) below the window sill. Where no drains are required the window
well surface shall be a minimum of 4 inches (101 mm) below the window sill.
Exceptions:
1. A drainage system for window wells is not required when the foundation is on
well-drained soil or sand-gravel mixture soils as determined by the foundation
engineer of record.
2.A drainage system is not required for new window'wells on additions to existing
dwellings.
35) Section R311.7.1 Width is hereby retained in its entirety with the following amendments:
R311.7.1 Width Stairways shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in clear width at all
points above the permitted handrail height and below the required headroom height.
Handrails shall not project more than 41/2 inches (114 mm) on either side of the stairway
and the clear width of the stairway at and below the handrail height, including treads and
14
landings, shall be not less than 311/2 inches (787 mm) where a handrail is installed on
one side and 27 inches (698 mm) where handrails are provided on both sides.
Exception: The width of spiral stairways installed as part of an individual dwelling unit
shall be in accordance with Section R311.7.10.1.
36) Section R311.7.5.1 Risers is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R311.7.5.1 Risers. The riser height shall be not more than 7 3/4 inches (196 mm). The
minimum riser height shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm). The riser shall be
measured vertically between leading edges of the adjacent treads. The greatest riser
height within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3/8 inch (9.5
mm). Risers shall be vertical or sloped from the underside of the nosing of the tread
above at an angle not more than 30 degrees (0.51 rad) from the vertical. Open risers are
permitted provided that the openings located more than 30 inches (762 mm), as measured
vertically, to the floor or grade below do not permit the passage of a 4-inch-diameter (102
mm) sphere.
Exceptions:
1. The opening between adjacent treads is not limited on spiral stairways.
2. The riser height of spiral stairways shall be in accordance with Section
R311.7.10.1.
37) A new Section R312.1.1.1 Area well retaining walls, is hereby added to read as follows:
R312.1.1.1 Area well retaining walls. Where any area well wall, bulkhead enclosure
wall or similar retaining wall or barrier is located less than 36 inches (914 mm) from the
nearest intended walking surface, parking surface, or driveway and the surface elevation
difference between the higher and lower side of the well wall, bulkhead enclosure wall,
or retaining wall is greater than 36 inches, such wall shall be protected with guards or be
provided with an equivalent barrier.
Exceptions:
1. The access side of stairways need not be barricaded'
2.Area wells provided for emergency escape and rescue windows may be protected
with approved grates or covers that comply with Section R310.4.
3. Covers and grates may be used over stairways and other openings used
exclusively for service access or for admitting light or ventilation.
15
4. Area well walls, bulkhead enclosure walls, or retaining walls adjacent to a
building that are located 24 inches (610 mm) or less measured perpendicular from
the building.
5. Locations where the slope of the embankment or the side of the enclosure or the
opening adjacent to such walls does not exceed 2 horizontal to 1 vertical.
38) Section R313.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire systems is hereby retained
in its entirety with the following amendments:
R313.2 Two-family dwellings automatic fire systems. An automatic residential fire
sprinkler system shall be installed in two-family dwellings.
Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required for
additions or alterations to existing buildings that are not already provided with an
automatic residential sprinkler system.
39) Section R314.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions, is hereby retained in its entirety
with the following amendments:
R314.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions. Where alterations, repairs or additions
requiring a permit occur, or where one or more sleeping rooms are added or created in
existing dwellings, the individual dwelling unit shall be equipped with smoke equipped
with smoke for new dwellings.
Exceptions:
1. Work involving the exterior surfaces of dwellings, such as the replacement of roofing
or siding, the addition or replacement of windows or doors, or the addition of a porch or
deck, are exempt from the requirements of this section.
40) Section R315.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions, is hereby retained in its entirety
with the following amendments:
R315.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions. Where alterations, repairs or additions
requiring a permit occur, or where one or more sleeping rooms are added or created in
existing dwellings, the individual dwelling unit shall be equipped with carbon monoxide
alarms located as required for new dwellings.
Exceptions:
1. Work involving the exterior surfaces of dwellings, such as the replacement of
roofing or siding, or the addition or replacement of windows or doors, or the addition of aU
porch or deck, is exempt from the requirements of this section.
41) Section R320.1 Scope, is hereby retained in its entirety with the following amendments:
16
1
R320.1 Scope. Where there are four or more dwelling units or sleeping units constructed
in a single structure, the applicable provisions of Colorado Revised Statutes, Federal
regulations, and the provisions of Chapter I 1 of the adopted International Building Code
for Group R-3 shall apply.
42) Section R322 Flood-resistant construction is hereby deleted in its entirety and the
following is hereby added in lieu thereof:
R322 Flood-Resistant Construction
Buildings and structures constructed in flood hazard areas shall be designed and
constructed in accordance with the provisions of the Code of the City, Chapter 10, Flood
Prevention and Protection. In riverine flood hazard areas where design flood elevations
are specified but floodways have not been designated, the applicant shall demonstrate
that the cumulative effect of the proposed buildings and structures on design flood
elevations, including fill, when combined with all other existing and anticipated
development, will not increase the design flood elevation more than one foot at any point
within the City.
43) Section R326 Swimming pools, spas and hot tubs is hereby deleted in its entirety and the
following is hereby added in lieu thereof:
SECTION R326
BARRIER REQUIREMENTS
R326.1 General.
The provisions of this Section shall apply to the design of barriers for pools and spas.
These design controls are intended to provide protection against the potential drowning
and near drowning by restricting access to such pools or spas. These requirements
provide an integrated level of protection against potential drowning through the use of
physical barriers and warning devices.
Exceptions:
1.Spas and hot tubs with a lockable safety cover that complies with ASTM F 1346.
r
2.Swimming pools with a powered safety cover that complies with ASTM F 1346.
R326.2 Outdoor swimming pools and spas.
Outdoor pools and spas and indoor swimming pools shall be surrounded by a barrier that
complies with Sections 305.2.1 through 305.7.
R326.2.1 Barrier height and clearances.
Barrier heights and clearances shall be in accordance with all of the following:
17
1.The top of the barrier shall be not"less than 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade
where measured on the side of the barrier that faces away from the pool or spa.
Such height shall exist around the entire perimeter of the barrier and for a distance
of 3 feet (914 mm) measured horizontally from the outside of the required barrier.
2. The vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the barrier shall not
exceed 2 inches (51 mm) for grade surfaces that are not solid, such as grass or
gravel, where measured on the side of the barrier that faces away from the pool or
spa.
3. , The vertical clearance between a surface below the barrier to a solid surface, such
as concrete, and the bottom of the required barrier shall not exceed 4 inches (102
mm) where measured on the side of the required barrier that faces away from the
pool or spa.
4. Where the top of the pool or spa structure is above grade, the barrier shall be
installed on grade or shall be mounted on top of the pool or spa structure. Where
the barrier is mounted on the top of the pool or spa, the vertical clearance between
the top of the pool or spa and the bottom of the barrier shall not exceed 4 inches
102 mm).
R326.2.2 Openings.
Openings in the barrier shall not allow passage of a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere.
R326.2.3 Solid barrier surfaces.
Solid barriers that do not have openings shall not contain indentations or protrusions that
form handholds and footholds, except for normal construction tolerances and tooled
masonry joints.
R326.2.4 Mesh fence as a barrier.
Mesh fences, other than chain link fences in accordance with Section 305.2.7, shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and shall comply with the
following:
1. The bottom of the mesh fence shall be not more than 1 inch.(25 mm) above the
deck or installed surface or grade.
2. The maximum vertical clearance from the bottom of the mesh fence and the solid
surface shall not permit the fence to be lifted more than 4 inches (102 mm) from
grade or decking.
3.The fence shall be designed and constructed so that it does not allow passage of a
4-inch (102 mm) sphere under any mesh panel. The maximum vertical clearance
from the bottom of the mesh fence and the solid surface shall not be more than 4
inches (102 mm) from grade or decking.
18
4. An attachment device shall attach each barrier.section at a height not lower than
45 inches (1143 mm) above grade. Common attachment devices include, but are .
not limited to, devices that provide the security equal to or greater than that of a
hook-and-eye type latch incorporating a spring-actuated retaining lever such as a
safety gate hook.
5. Where a hinged gate is used with a mesh fence, the gate shall comply with
Section 305.3.
6. Patio deck sleeves such as vertical post receptacles that are placed inside the patio
surface shall be of a nonconductive material.
7. Mesh fences shall not be installed on top of on ground residential pools.
R326.2.5 Closely spaced horizontal members.
Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members and the distance
between the tops of the horizontal members is less than 45 inches (1143 mm), the
horizontal members shall be located on the pool or spa side of the fence. Spacing between
vertical members shall not exceed 13/4 inches (44 mm) in width. Where there are
decorative cutouts within vertical members, spacing within the cutouts shall not exceed
13/4 inches (44 mm) in width.
R326.2.6 Widely spaced horizontal members.
Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members and the distance
between the tops of the horizontal members is 45 inches (1143 mm) or more, spacing
between vertical members shall not exceed 4 inches (102 mm). Where there are
decorative cutouts within vertical members, the interior width of the cutouts shall not
exceed 13/4 inches (44 mm).
R326.2.7 Chain link dimensions.
The maximum opening formed by a chain link fence shall be not more than 1 3/4 inches
44 mm). Where the fence is provided with slats fastened at the top and bottom which
reduce the openings, such openings shall be not more than 1 3/4 inches (44 mm).
R326.2.8 Diagonal members.
Where the barrier is composed of diagonal members, the maximum opening formed by
the diagonal members shall be not more thanl 3/4 inches (44 mm). The angle of diagonal
members shall be not greater than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) from vertical.
R326.2.9 Clear zone. \
There shall be a clear zone of not less than 36 inches (914 mm) between the exterior of
the barrier and any permanent structures or equipment such as pumps, filters and heaters
that can be used to climb the barrier.
19
R326.2.10 Poolside barrier setbacks.
The pool or spa side of the required barrier shall be not less than 20 inches (508 mm)
from the water's edge.
R326.3 Gates.
Access gates shall comply with the requirements of Sections 305.3.1 through 305.3.3 and
shall be equipped to accommodate a locking device. Pedestrian access gates shall open
outward away from the pool or spa, shall be self-closing and shall have a self-latching
device.
R326.3.1 Utility or service gates.
Gates not intended for pedestrian use, such as utility or service gates, shall remain locked
when not in use.
R326.3.2 Double or multiple gates.
Double gates or multiple gates shall have at least one leaf secured in place and the
adjacent leaf shall be secured with a self-latching device. The gate and barrier shall not
have openings larger than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) within 18 inches (457 mm) of the latch
release mechanism. The self-latching device shall comply with the requirements of
Section 305.3.3.
R326.3.3 Latches.
Where the release mechanism of the self-latching device is located less than 54 inches
1372 mm) from grade, the release mechanism shall be located on the pool or spa side of
the gate not less than 3 inches (76 mm) below the top of the gate, and the gate and barrier
shall not have openings greater than 1/2inch (12.7 mm) within 18 inches (457 mm) of the
release mechanism.
R326.4 Structure wall as a barrier.
Where a wall of a dwelling or structure serves as part of the barrier and where doors or
windows provide direct access to the pool or spa through that wall, one of the following
shall be required:
1.Operable windows having a sill height of less than 48 inches (1219 mm) above
the indoor finished floor and doors shall have an alarm that produces an audible
warning when the window, door or their screens are opened. The alarm shall be
listed and labeled as a water hazard entrance alarm in accordance with UL 2017.
In dwellings or structures not required to be Accessible units, Type A units or
Type B units, the operable parts of the alarm deactivation switches shall be
located 54 inches (1372 mm) or more above the finished floor. In dwellings or
structures required to be Accessible units, Type A units or Type B units, the
operable parts of the alarm deactivation switches shall be located.not greater than
54 inches (1372 mm) and not less than 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished
floor.
20
2. A safety cover that is listed and labeled in accordance with ASTM F 1346 is
installed for the pools and spas.
3.An approved means of protection, such as self-closing doors with self-latching
devices, is provided. Such means of protection shall provide a degree of
protection that is not less than the protection afforded by Item 1 or 2.
R326.5 On ground residential pool structure as a barrier.
An on ground residential pool wall structure or a barrier mounted on top of an on ground
residential pool wall structure shall serve as a barrier where all of the following
conditions are present:
1. Where only the pool wall serves as the barrier, the bottom of the wall is on grade,
the top of the wall is not less than 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade for the entire
perimeter of the pool, the wall complies with the requirements of Section 305.2
and the pool manufacturer allows the wall to serve as a barrier.
2. Where a barrier is mounted on top of the pool wall, the top of the barrier is not
less than 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade for the entire perimeter of the pool,
and the wall and the barrier on top of the wall comply with the requirements of
Section 305.2.
3. Ladders or steps used as means of access to the pool are capable of being secured,
locked or removed to prevent access except where the ladder or steps are
surrounded by a barrier that meets the requirements of Section 305.
4. Openings created by the securing, locking or removal of ladders and steps do not
allow the passage of a 4inch'(102 mm) diameter sphere.
5. Barriers that are mounted on top of on ground residential pool walls are installed
in accordance with the pool manufacturer's instructions.
R326.6 Natural barriers.
In the case where the pool or spa area abuts the edge of a lake or other natural body of
water, public access is not permitted or allowed along the shoreline, and required barriers
extend to and beyond the water's edge not less than 18 inches (457 mm), a barrier is not
required between the natural body of water shoreline and the pool or spa.
R326.7 Natural topography.
Natural topography that prevents direct access to the pool or spa area shall include but
not be limited to mountains and natural rock formations. A natural barrier as approved by
the building official shall be acceptable provided that the degree of protection is not less
than the protection afforded by the requirements of Sections 305.2 through 305.5.
R326.8 Entrapment avoidance.
Suction outlets shall be designed and installed in accordance with ANSI/APSP-7.
L
21
R326.9 Barriers around decorative pools, fountains, and ponds.
Decorative pools, fountains, and ponds which can.contain water deeper than 24 inches
610 mm), shall be protected by barriers installed in accordance with section AG105.2.
44) A new Section R327 Resource Efficiency is hereby added to read as follows:
I,
R327 Resource Efficiency
R327.1 Construction waste management. For new buildings, and additions over 2,500
square feet or remodels over 2,500 square feet a construction waste management plan
acceptable to the building official that includes recycling of concrete and masonry, wood,
metals and cardboard, is required at time of application for a building permit. The
construction waste management plan shall be implemented and conspicuously posted on
the construction site. Compliance shall be certified by the hauler through receipts and
signed affidavits. Substantive changes to the plan shall be subject to prior approval by the
building official.
R327.1.1 Building demolitions. Buildings or portions of buildings which are removed
shall be processed in such a way as to safely remove all asbestos and lead paint
contaminants. All metals, asphalt, concrete and masonry that are free of asbestos and lead
paint shall be recycled, and where possible, all remaining materials, such as doors,
windows, cabinets, fixtures, and wood, shall be recycled. A construction waste
management plan shall be submitted at time of demo permit. Compliance with the
CWMP shall be certified by the hauler through receipts and signed affidavits.
45) A new Section R328 Indoor Environmental Quality hereby added to read as follows:
R328 Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)
R328.1 Low-volatile organic compound (VOC) materials.. Construction materials,
floor coverings and site applied finishes, including sealants and adhesives, resilient
flooring, carpeting and pad, site-applied paints, stains and varnishes, structural wood
panels, hardwood veneer plywood, particle board and fiber board building products, and
insulation shall meet specified volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions limits in
accordance with California Department of Public Health (CDPH) 01350;
GREENGUARD Environmental Institute GGPS.001 standard for building materials and
finishes; and Green Seal® standards. Documentation demonstrating compliance be
required with delivery of such materials and shall be available for inspection.
Exception: For alterations to existing buildings, carpeting and pad, structural wood
panels, hardwood, veneer plywood, particle board and fiber board building products and
insulation are not subject to this requirement.
46) A new Section R329 Outdoor Environmental Quality is hereby added to read as follows:
22
R329 Outdoor Environmental Quality (OEQ)
R329.1 Exterior lighting. All exterior lighting fixtures associated with new buildings
shall have the "Fixture Seal of Approval" from the International Dark-Sky Association
IDA) or meet equivalent criteria approved by the building official. Lighting placement
shall conform to IDA Model Lighting Ordinance for Lighting Zone LZ-1. Light shall be
shielded such that the lamp itself or the lamp image is not directly visible outside the
property perimeter.
47) A new Section R330 Operations and Maintenance and Building Owner Education is
hereby added to read as follows:
R330 Operations and Maintenance and Building Owner Education
R330.1 Operations and maintenance. In new buildings, operation and maintenance
information addressing all installed systems shall be provided for the building owner.
48) Section R401.1 Application is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R401.1 Application. The provisions of this chapter shall control the. design and
construction of the foundation and foundation spaces for all buildings. In addition to the
provisions of this chapter, the design and construction of foundations in areas prone to
flooding as established by Table R301.2(1) shall meet the provisions of Section R322.
All foundations shall be designed by a qualified professional licensed in the State of
Colorado. Such designs shall be performed in accordance with accepted and approved
engineering practices, including considerations for soil load-bearing capacities, surface
and subsurface water conditions, adequate foundation and floor drainage, adequate
ventilation of enclosed interior foundation' spaces, and foundation waterproofing and
damp-proofing. Final engineer's reports, indicating his/her acceptance of the above
requirements, shall be submitted to the building official prior to the issuance of the
Certificate of Occupancy.
Exceptions:
1. When approved by the building official, engineering is not required on
foundations for non-habitable detached accessory buildings, or habitable additions of less
than 120 sq. ft., when such structures are unlikely to be located on expansive,
compressible, or shifting soils, soils of unknown characteristics, or for other valid
reasons.
2.The provisions of this chapter shall be permitted to be used for wood foundations
only in the following situations:
a. In buildings that have no more than two floors and a roof.
23
b. Where interior basement and foundation walls are constructed at intervals
not exceeding 50 feet (15 240 mm).
Wood foundations in Seismic Design Category DO, DI or D2 shall be designed in
accordance with accepted engineering practice.
49) A new Section, R401.5 Placement of backfill is hereby added to read as follows:
R401.5 Placement of backfill. The excavation outside the foundation, including utility
trenches and excavation ramp, shall be backfilled with soil that is substantially free of
organic material, construction debris and cobbles, boulders, and solid soil masses larger
than 6 inches (152 mm) diameter; or of•frozen soil. The backfill shall be placed in lifts
and compacted as set forth in the engineering documents. The backfill shall be placed in a
manner that does not damage the foundation or the waterproofing or damp-proofing
material. Excavation ramps shall be backfilled in such a manner that the ramp does not
become a conduit for surface water to flow toward the foundation. Where excavations
include more than one house, a specially engineered drainage system may be required by
the building official.
50) Section R403.1.4.]Frost protection is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R403.1.4.1 Frost protection. Except where otherwise protected from frost, foundation
walls, piers and other permanent supports of buildings and structures shall be protected
from frost by one or more of the following methods:
1. Extended below the frost line specified in Table R301.2. (1).
2. Constructed in accordance with Section R403.3.
3.Constructed in accordance with ASCE 32.
4. Erected on solid rock.
Exceptions:
1.Protection of freestanding unconditioned accessory structures with an area of 600
square feet (56 m2) or less, of light-frame construction,.with an eave height of 10
feet (3048 mm) or less shall not be required.
2. Protection of freestanding unconditioned accessory structures with an area of 400
square feet (37 m2) or less, of other than light-frame construction, with an eave
height of 10 feet (3048 mm) or less shall not be required.
3.Decks not supported by a dwelling need not be provided with footings that extend
below the frost line.
24
Footings shall not bear on frozen soil unless the frozen condition is permanent.
51) Section R405.1 Concrete or masonry foundations, is hereby retained in its entirety,
including Table 405.1, with the following amendments:
R405I1 Concrete or masonry foundations. Drains consisting of piping conforming
with ASTM Designation D2729-89 shall be provided adjacent to the lowest concrete or
masonry foundations that retain earth and enclose spaces that are partially or entirely
located below grade. Unless perimeter drains are designed to daylight, they shall
terminate in sump pits with an electrical power source permanently installed within 36
inches (91.4 mm) of the sump opening. Piping for sump pumps shall discharge at least 60
inches (1524 mm) away from foundations or as otherwise approved by the building
official. Drains shall be installed in bedding materials that are of such size and installed
in such manner to allow ground water to seep into the perimeter drain. Filter fabric or
other measures to restrict the passage of fines shall be used to further protect the
perimeter drain from blockage.
Exception: A drainage system is not required when the engineer of record has
determined that the foundation is installed on well-drained ground or sand gravel mixture
soils according to the Unified Soil Classification System, Group I Soils, as detailed in
Table R405.1.
52) A new Section R405.3 Landscape irrigation, is added to read as follows:
R405.3 Landscape irrigation. Landscape irrigation systems, other than drip systems,
shall be installed such that the ground surface within 60 inches (1524 mm), measured
perpendicular from the foundation, is not irrigated.
53) Section R4083Ventilation is hereby deleted in its entirety and the following is hereby
added in lieu thereof:
R408.1 Crawl space soil gas retarder. All exposed earth in a crawl space shall be
covered with a minimum 3 mil cross-linked Class I vapor retarder. Joints of the vapor
retarder shall overlap by 6 inches (152 mm) and shall be sealed or taped. The edges of
the vapor retarder shall extend at least 6 inches (152 mm) up the perimeter stem wall and
any footing pads on grade, and be permanently attached and sealed to the stem wall or
footing pads. Reference adopted Appendix F of this code.
54) Section R408.2 Openings for under-floor ventilation is hereby deleted in its entirety and
the following is hereby added in lieu thereof:
R408.2 Crawl space. Crawl spaces shall be designed and constructed to be inside the
building thermal envelope, in accordance with the insulation and air sealing requirements
for crawl space walls and rim joists of Section N1102 of this code. Crawl spaces shall not
25
i
be vented to the exterior. They shall be conditioned using one of the following
approaches:
I.Continuously operated mechanical exhaust ventilation at a rate equal to 1 cubic
j foot per minute (0.47 Us) for each 50 square feet (4.7m2) of crawlspace floor
area, including an air pathway to the common area (such as a duct or transfer
grille);
2.Conditioned air supply sized to deliver at a rate equal to 1 cubic foot per minute
0.47 Us) for each 50 square feet (4.7 m2) of under-floor area, including a return
air pathway to the common area (such as a duct or transfer grille);
3. Plenum in existing structures complying with Section M1601.5, if under-floor
space is used as a plenum.
Exception: Crawl spaces shall be permitted to be designed and constructed as
unconditioned spaces, outside the building thermal envelope, provided the following
requirements are met:
1. The floor above the crawl space is part of the building thermal envelope. It shall
meet the insulation requirements of Table N1102.1.1 of this code and shall be air-
sealed in accordance with Section N1102.4.1 of this code.
2.Ventilation openings shall be placed through foundation walls or exterior walls.
The minimum net area of ventilation openings shall not be less than 1 square foot
0.0929 m2) for each 1,500 square feet (140 m2) of under-floor space area. One
such ventilating opening shall be within 3 feet (914 mm) of each corner of the
building.
3. Ventilation openings shall be covered for their height and width with any of the
following materials provided that the least dimension of the covering shall not
exceed 1/4 inch (6.4 mm):
a.Perforated sheet metal plates not less than 0.070 inch (1.8 mm) thick.
b. Expanded sheet metal plates not less than 0.047 inch (1.2 mm) thick.
C.Cast-iron grill or grating.
d. Extruded load-bearing brick vents.
e.Hardware cloth of 0.035 inch (0.89 mm) wire or heavier.
f.Corrosion-resistant wire mesh, with the least dimension being 1/8 inch
3.2 mm) thick.
4. The installation of operable louvers shall not be prohibited.
55) A new Section R408.2.1 Ventilated underfloor spaces, is hereby added to read as
follows:
26
i
i
114082.1 Ventilated under-floor spaces. Floor systems above ventilated under-floor
spaces or floors open to the exterior or floors above an unconditioned space below shall
be insulated to R-30. Floor system shall be sealed to prevent heat loss and air infiltration.
56) Section R408.3 Unvented crawl space 3 is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
R408.3 Unvented crawl space. Ventilation openings in under-floor spaces specified in
Sections R408.1 and R408.2 shall not be required where the following items are
provided:
1. Exposed earth is covered with a continuous Class I vapor retarder. Joints of the
vapor retarder shall overlap by 6 inches (152 mm) and shall be sealed or taped.
The edges of the vapor retarder shall extend not less than 6 inches (152 mm) up
the stem wall and shall be attached and sealed to the stem wall or insulation.
2.One of the following is provided for the under-floor space:
2.1. Continuously operated mechanical exhaust ventilation at a rate equal to 1
cubic foot per minute (0.47 L/s) for each 50 square feet (4.7m2) of crawl space
floor area, including an air pathway to the common area (such as a duct or transfer
grille), and perimeter walls insulated in accordance with N1102.2.11 of this code.
2.2. Conditioned air supply sized to deliver at a rate equal to 1 cubic foot per.
minute (0.47 Us) for each 50 square feet (4.7 m2) of under-floor area, including a
return air pathway to the common area (such as a duct or transfer grille), and
perimeter walls insulated in accordance with Section N1102.2.11 of this code.
2.3. Plenum in existing structures complying with Section M1601.5, if under-floor
space is used as a plenum.
3. The perimeter walls enclosing un-vented crawl spaces shall be thermally insulated
to R-15 continuous insulation or R-19 batt insulation in accordance with Table
N 1102.1.2.
57) A new Section-R408.3.1 Spaces under below-grade floors, is hereby added to read as
follows:
R408.3.1 Spaces under below-grade floors. Mechanical ventilation systems for spaces
under below-grade floors shall be installed as designed by a professional engineer.
Exception: Below grade floors designed specifically to accommodate soils expansion
and less than 18 inches in depth.
58) A new Section R703.8.IFenestration Installation is hereby added to read as follows:
27
i
11703.8.1 Fenestration installation. For all new construction, all fenestration.
installations shall be in accordance with American Architectural Manufacturers
Association (AAMA) Standards/ Specifications for Windows, Doors and Skylights and
shall be supervised or inspected by an individual certified as an Installation Master or by
one having attended training by the manufacturer of the specific window product being
installed. Fenestration perimeter flashing shall be installed per Installation Masters
Chapter 16 Method A or A1, including either rigid or flexible sill pan flashing.
59) A new Section R703.11.1.5 Vinyl siding on new buildings is hereby-added to read as
follows:
Section R703.11.1.5 Vinyl siding on new buildings. Vinyl siding on new buildings shall
be installed over one-hour fire-rated assemblies listed for exterior fire exposure, in both
the vertical and horizontal plane.
60) A new Section R703.13.2 Insulated vinyl,siding on new buildings is hereby added to
read as follows:
Section R703.13.2 Insulated vinyl siding on new buildings. Insulated vinyl siding on
new buildings shall be installed over one-hour fire-rated assemblies listed for exterior fire
exposure, in both the vertical and horizontal plane.
61) A new Section R703.14.3 Polypropylene siding on new buildings is hereby added to
read as:
R703.14.3 Polypropylene siding on new buildings. Polypropylene on new buildings
shall be installed over one-hour fire-rated assemblies listed for exterior fire exposure, in
both the vertical and horizontal plane.
62) Section R902.1 Roofing Covering Materials is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
R902.1 Roofing covering materials.
Except as otherwise allowed, roofs shall be covered with materials listed as Class A and
with materials as set forth in Sections R904 and R905. Classes A, B and C roofing
required to be listed by this Section shall be tested in accordance with UL 790 or ASTM
E 108. Roof assemblies with coverings of brick, masonry, slate, clay or concrete roof tile,
exposed concrete roof deck, ferrous or copper shingles or sheets, and metal sheets and
shingles, shall be considered Class A roof coverings.
Exception: Any Class B or Class C roof covering may be applied on any new
construction that is added to an existing building, provided the roof extremities of such
existing building and new construction are located a minimum distance of 5 feet (1.524
m) from the nearest adjacent property line and are a minimum distance of 10 feet (3.048
m) from another building.
28
r
I
63) Section R903.2.2 Crickets and saddles is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
R903.2.2 Crickets and saddles. A cricket or saddle shall be installed on the ridge side of
any chimney or penetration more than 18 inches (457 mm) wide as measured
perpendicular to the slope. Cricket or saddle coverings shall be sheet metal or-of the same
material as the roof covering.
Exceptions:
1. Unit skylights installed in accordance with Section R308.6 and flashed in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions shall be permitted to be installed without
a cricket or saddle.
2.Re-roofing per Section R907.
64) Section R905.1.2 Ice barriers is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
R905.1.2 Ice barriers. In areas where there has been a history of ice forming along the
eaves causing a backup of water as designated in Table R301.2(1), an ice barrier shall be
installed for asphalt shingles, metal roof shingles, mineral-surfaced roll roofing, slate and
slate-type shingles, wood shingles and wood shakes. The ice barrier shall consist of not
fewer than two layers of underlayment cemented together, or a self-adhering polymer-
modified bitumen sheet shall be used in place of normal underlayment and extend from
the lowest edges of all roof surfaces to a point not less than 12 inches (304 mm) inside
the exterior wall line of the building. On roofs with slope equal to or greater than 8 units
vertical in 12 units horizontal, the ice barrier shall also be applied not less than 36 inches
914 mm) measured along the roof slope from the eave edge of the building.
Exceptions:
1. Detached accessory structures not containing conditioned floor area.
2. Re-roofing where the existing roof covering has not been removed.
65) Section R905.2.1 Sheathing requirements is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
R905.2.1 Sheathing requirements Asphalt shingles shall be fastened to solidly sheathed
decks. Gaps in the solid decking shall not exceed 1/8 inch.
66) Section R908.1 General is hereby retained in its entirety with the following amendments:
29
R9081 General. Materials and methods of application used for recovering or replacing
an existing roof covering shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 9. No portion of
an existing nonrated roof covering may be permanently replaced or covered with more
than one square of nonrated roof covering.
Exceptions:
1.Reroofing shall not be required to meet the minimum design slope requirement of
one-fourth vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope) in Section R905 for
roofs that provide positive roof drainage.
2. For roofs that provide positive drainage, re-covering or replacing an existing roof
covering shall not require the secondary (emergency overflow) drains or scuppers
of Section R903.4.1 to be added to an existing roof.
3.Any existing roof covering system may be replaced with a roof covering of the
same materials and classification, provided the replacement roof covering has a
minimum rating of Class C.
67) Section R1004.1 General is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
Factory-built fireplaces shall be listed and labeled and shall be installed in accordance
with the conditions of the listing. Factory-built fireplaces shall be tested in accordance
with UL 127. Solid fuel fireplaces, fireplace stoves and solid-fuel-type room heaters
shall also comply with Section 5-110 of the City Code and shall be provided with a spark
arrestor.
68) Section R1004.4 Unvented Gas log heaters is hereby deleted in its entirety.
69) A new Section N1101.1.1 Thermal design parameters is hereby added to read as
follows:
N1101.1.1 Thermal design parameters. The following thermal design parameters in
Table N1101.1 shall be used for calculations required under this chapter.
TABLE N1101.1
THERMAL DESIGN PARAMETERS
CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA
Winter Outdoor,Design Dry-bulb('F) 6
Winter Indoor,Design Dry-bulb(OF) 72
Summer,Outdoor Design Dry-bulb(OF) 90
Summer,Indoor Design Dry-bulb(OF) 75
Summer,Outdoor Design Wet-bulb('F) 62
30
Summer,Indoor Design Wet-bulb(°F) 62
Degree Days heating 5710
Degree days cooling 694
Fort Collins is in Climate Zone 5
For SI:°C=[(°F)-321/1.8.
Note:based on the 2013 Colorado Climate Center analysis.
70) Section N1101.5 (R103.2)Information on construction documents, is hereby kept
and preserved in its entirety with the following amendments:
N1101.5 ( R103.2) Information on construction documents. Construction documents
for all buildings shall describe the exterior wall envelope in sufficient detail to determine
compliance with this code. When applicable as determined by .the building official,
construction documents submitted as part of the building permit application shall provide
details of the exterior wall envelope as required, including flashing, intersections of
dissimilar materials, corners, end details, control joints, intersections at roof, eaves, or
parapets, means of drainage, water-resistive membrane, and details around openings.
The construction documents shall include manufacturing installation instructions that
provide supporting documentation that the proposed penetration and opening details
described in the construction documents maintain the weather resistance of the exterior
wall envelope. The supporting documentation shall fully describe the exterior wall
system which was tested, where applicable, as well as the test procedure used.
Construction documents shall be drawn to scale 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 shows in sufficient detail pertinent data and features of
the building, systems and equipment as herein governed. Details shall include, but are not
limited to, as applicable,
1.insulation materials and their R-values;
2.fenestration schedule listing sizes, U-factors and SHGCs;
3.area-weighted U-factor and SHGC calculations;
4. mechanical system design criteria;
5. mechanical and service water heating system and equipment types, sizes and
efficiencies;
6. economizer description;
67. equipment and systems controls;
8.fan motor horsepower (hp) and controls;
9. duct sealing, duct and pipe insulation and location;
10. lighting fixture schedule with wattage and control narrative; and
911. air sealing details.
71) Table N1102.1.2 (Table R402.1.2) Insulation and fenestration requirements by
component is hereby retained in its entirety with the following amendments:
TABLE N1102.1.2
INSULATION AND FENESTRATION REQUIREMENTS BY COMPONENT
31
CLIMATE ZONE. ITNESTRATION SKYLIGHT GLAZED CEILING WOOD MASS FLOOR EASEMENT` SLABd CRAWL`
HEATING U-FACTOR" U-FACTOR 14iNf;STRATION R-FRAME WAI,I, R- WALL R.SPACE
SYSTEM SHGC VALUE WALL R- c R-VALUE VALUE WALL,
TYPE R-VALUE VALUES
VALUI:
R
fg DEI1rH VALUE
Non- 0.32 0.55 NR 49 20 or 13/17 30 10/13h 10,2 10/13h
Electric beat 13+5 15/19i It 15/19i
Electric heat 0,30 0.55 NR 49 20+5 15/19 30 15/19 10,3 15/19
ft
For SI: I foot=304.8mm
a.R-values are minimums. U-factors and SHGC are maximums. R-19 butts compressed into a nominal 2x6
framing cavity such that the R-value is reduced by R-1 or more shall be marked with the compressed batt R-value in
addition to the full thickness R-value.
b.The fenestration U-factor column excludes skylights.The SHGC column applies to all glazed fenestration.
C.15/19" means R-15 continuous insulation on the interior or exterior of the foundation wall or R-19cavity
insulation at the interior of the foundation wall."15/19"shall be permitted to be met with R-13 cavity insulation on the
interior of the foundation wall plus R-5 continuous insulation on the interior or exterior of the foundation wall."10/13"
means R-10 continuous insulation on the interior or exterior of the foundation wall or R-13 cavity insulation at the
interior of the foundation wall.
d.R-5 shall be added to the required slab edge R-values for heated slabs.
e.Insulation shall fill the framing cavity,R-19 minimum.
f. First value is cavity insulation, second is insulated sheathing or siding, so "20+5" means R-20 cavity
insulation plus R-5 insulated sheathing. If structural sheathing covers 25 percent or less of the exterior, insulating
sheathing is not required where structural sheathing is used. If structural sheathing covers more than 25 percent of the
exterior,structural sheathing shall be supplemented with insulated sheathing of at least R-2.
g.The second R-value applies when more than half the insulation is on the interior of the mass wall.
h. All rim joists and adjoining plates shall be air-sealed and insulated using spray foam insulation to R-15 minimum.
i. All rim joists and adjoining plates shall be air-sealed.
72) Table NI102.1.4(Table R402.1.4)Equivalent U-Factors is hereby deleted in its entirety
and the following is hereby added in lieu thereof:
TABLE N1102.1.4
EQUIVALENT U-FACTORSa
HEATING SYSTEM FENESTRATION SKYLIGHT CEILING FRAME WALL MASS FLOOR BASEMENT CRAWL
TYPE U-FACTOR U-FACTOR R-VALUE U-FACTOR WALL U-FACTOR WALL SPACE
U-FACTOR" U-FACTOR WALL
U-FACTOR
Nonelectric heat 0.32 0.55 0.026 0.057 0.082 0.033 0.059 0.055
Electric heat 0.30 0.55 0.026 0.048 0.060 0.033 0.050 0.055
a.Non-fenestration U-factors shall be obtained from measurement,calculation or an approved source.
b.When more than half the insulation is on the interior, the mass wall U-factor shall be the same as the frame
wall U-factor.
73) Section N1102.2 (R402.2) Specific insulation requirements is hereby retained in its
entirety with the following amendments:
N1102.2 (R402.2) Specific insulation requirements (Mandatory) In addition to the
requirements of Section N1102.1, insulation shall meet the specific requirements of
Sections N1102.2.1 through N1102.2.13. All insulation shall be installed to meet
Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) Grade I standard with six-sided
encapsulation.
Exceptions: RESNET Grade II is acceptable for:
32
1.cavity insulation in exterior walls that include continuous rigid insulating
sheathing and/or insulated siding with a minimum R-5 value; and
2.rim joist.
74) Section N1102.2.1 (R402.2.1) Ceilings with attic spaces is hereby retained in its entirety
with the following amendments:
N1102.2.1 (R402.2.1) Ceilings with attic spaces
1. Where Section R1102.1.2 would require R-38 insulation in the ceiling, installing
R-30 over 100 percent of the ceiling area requiring insulation shall be deemed to
satisfy the requirement for R-38 wherever the full height of uncompressed R-30
insulation extends over the wall top plate at the eaves. Similarly, where Section
R1102.1.2 would require R-49 insulation in the ceiling, installing R-38 over 100
percent of the ceiling area requiring insulation shall be deemed to satisfy the
requirement for R-49 insulation wherever the full height of uncompressed R-38
insulation extends over the wall top plate at the eaves. This reduction shall not
apply to the U-factor alternative approach in Section R1102.1.4 and the total UA
alternative in Section R11'02.1.5.
2. (Mandatory) At the eaves, the insulation extending over the exterior wall top plate
shall be R-19 minimum.
Exception: In remodels of existing buildings, R-10 shall be installed over top plates
where the top plates are exposed during the remodel.
75) Section N1102.2.3 (R402.2.3) Eave baffles is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
N1102.2.3 (R402.2.3) Eave baffles and blocks (Mandatory), For air permeable
insulations in vented attics with ventilation from open or box soffits, a baffle shall be
installed to provide ventilation from the soffit to the attic adjacent to each soffit or eave
vent. In the case of continuous soffit vents, enough baffles shall be installed to maintain
the required attic ventilation from the soffit. Baffles shall maintain an opening equal or
greater than the size of the vent. The ventilation baffles shall extend over the top of the
attic insulation between rafters or trusses, maintaining a minimum 1" clear opening
below the roof deck and sufficient space for the minimum depth of attic insulation. The
baffle shall be permitted to be any solid material. All other spaces between rafters or
trusses shall be blocked full height, at the outside edge of the exterior wall top plate, with
air impermeable materials.
76) A new Section N1102.2.7.1 (R402.2.8.1)Rim insulation requirements is hereby added
to read as follows:
N1102.2.7.1 (R402.2.8.1) Rim insulation requirements All rim plates and rim joist that
are part of the thermal envelope shall be air-sealed. All rim plates and rim joist that are
part of the thermal envelope shall be insulated using spray foam materials to R-15
33
minimum when the basement walls are insulated to 10/13 in accordance with Table
N1102.1.2. Where spray foam insulation is not used at the rim joist and adjoining plates,
the rim joists and adjoining plates shall be insulated to minimum R-19.
77) Section N1102.4.1.2 (R402.4.1.2). Testing is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
N1102.4.1.2 (R402.4.1.2) Testing. The building or individual dwelling units shall be
tested and verified as having an air leakage rate of not exceeding 3 air changes per hour.
Testing shall be conducted with a blower door at a pressure of 0.2 inches w.g. (50
Pascals) in accordance with Section 802 of the RESNET Mortgage Industry National
Home Energy Rating Standards or City of Fort Collins Building Code Protocol for New
Multifamily Building Air Tightness Testing in duplex or townhomes. Where required by
the building official, testing shall be conducted by an approved third party. A written
report of the results of the test shall be signed by the party conducting the test and
provided to the building official. Isolation of attached garages from adjoining
conditioned areas shall be verified in accordance with City of Fort Collins protocols.
Testing shall occur after rough-in and after installation of penetrations of the building
thermal envelope, including but not limited to penetrations for utilities, plumbing,
electrical, ventilation and combustion appliances.
General requirements during testing:
1. Exterior windows and doors, fireplace and stove doors shall be closed, but not
sealed, beyond the intended weather-stripping or other infiltration control
measures;
2. Dampers including exhaust, intake, makeup air, backdraft and flue dampers shall
be closed, but not sealed beyond intended infiltration control measures;
3. Interior doors, if installed at the time of the test, shall be open;
4. Exterior doors for continuous ventilation systems and heat recovery ventilators
shall be closed and sealed;
5. Heating and cooling systems, if installed at the time of the test, shall be turned
off;
6.Supply and return registers, if installed at the time of the test, shall be fully open;
7.Combustion air inlets shall not be closed or otherwise obstructed; and
8.Garage doors to the exterior shall be closed.
34
In additions or alterations to existing buildings, air sealing compliance shall be
considered acceptable when the items listed in Table N1102.4.1.1, applicable to the
method of construction, are field-verified.
78) Section NI102.5 Maximum fenestration U:factor and SHGC (Mandatory) is hereby
deleted in its entirety and the following is hereby added in lieu thereof.
N1102.5 (R402.5) Maximum fenestration Ufactor and SHGC (Mandatory). For new
construction and additions that require a building permit, the area-weighted average
maximum fenestration Ufactor permitted using trade-offs from Section N1102.1.4 or
N1105 shall be 0.40 for vertical fenestration, and 0.75 for skylights.
79) Section N1103.3.1 (R403.3.1) Insulation is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
N1103.3.1 (R403.3.1) Insulation (Mandatory). Supply and return ducts in attics shall be
insulated to a minimum of R-8 where 3 inches (76.2 min) in diameter and greater and R-6
where less than 3 inches (76.2 mm) in diameter. Supply and return ducts in other portions
of the building shall be insulated to a minimum of R-6 where 3 inches (76.2 mm) in
diameter or greater and R-4.2 where less than 3 inches (76.2 mm) in diameter.
Exception: Ducts or portions thereof located completely inside the building thermal
envelope.
80) Section N1104.1 (R404.1) Lighting equipment is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
N1104.1 (R404.1) Lighting equipment (Mandatory). A minimum of 75 percent of the
lamps in permanently installed lighting fixtures shall be high-efficacy lamps or a
minimum of 50 percent of the permanently installed lighting fixtures shall contain only
LED lamps.
81) Section N1105.1 (R405.1)Scope is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
N1105.1 (R405.1) Scope. This section establishes criteria for compliance using simulated
energy performance analysis. Such analysis shall include heating, cooling, and service
water heating energy only.
Exception: In addition to all Mandatory sections, new buildings, additions, or alterations
where the primary heat source is electrical shall comply with prescriptive portions of the
code.
82) Section M1307.3 Elevation of ignition source is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
35
M1307.3 Elevation of ignition source: Electrical devices, equipment and appliances
having an ignition source shall be elevated such that the source of ignition is not less than
18 inches (457 mm) above the floor in garages. For the purpose of this section, rooms or
spaces that are not part of the living space of a dwelling unit and that communicate with a
private garage through openings shall be considered to be part of the garage.
Exception: Elevation of the ignition source is not required for appliances that are listed
as flammable-vapor-ignition resistant.
83) A new Section MI309 Testing and verification is hereby added to read as follows:
M1309 Testing and verification. Installed heating, cooling and ventilation systems
shall be performance-tested and adjusted to operate within design specifications, in
accordance with ANSI/ACCA Q1 5-2010 HVAC'Quality Installation Specification.
Documentation of results shall be submitted to the building official prior to the issuance
of the Certificate of Occupancy.
84) Section M1401.3 Equipment and appliance sizing is hereby deleted in its entirety and
the following is hereby added in lieu thereof:
M1401.3 Heating and cooling system design. The design of new heating and cooling
systems shall meet the requirements of this Section. Design documents shall be
submitted to the building official at the time of application for a building permit.
M1401.3.1 Equipment sizing. Heating and cooling equipment shall be sized in
accordance with ACCA Manual S, based on design building loads calculated in
accordance with ACCA Manual J, or other equivalent methodology approved by the
building official, using thermal design parameters in Table N1101.1 as amended. The
total equipment output capacity shall be between the following limits, as applicable for
the equipment type:
1.95% and 115% of calculated system cooling load, for air conditioners and heat
pumps;
2.95% and 125% of calculated system cooling load, for heat pumps with winter
heating dominated requirements;
3.100% and 140% of calculated system heating load, for warm air systems, unless
dictated by the cooling equipment selection; and
4.100% and 115% of calculated system heating load, for heating boilers.
Where no available equipment is within the applicable capacity limits, the next largest
nominal piece of equipment that is available may be used. -
36
M1401.3.2 Room loads. Room-by-room design heating and cooling loads shall be
calculated.
M1401.3.3 Matched components. Air-conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute
AHRI) matched evaporators, condensing units and air handlers shall be required.
85) Section, M1414.1 General is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
M1414.1 General. Fireplace stoves shall be listed, labeled and installed in accordance
with the terms of the listing. Fireplace stoves shall be tested in accordance with UL 737.
Wood burning appliances shall meet the latest emission standards as stated by the State of
Colorado and Federal Regulation 40 CFR Part 60, Subpart AAA.
86) Section M1501.1 Outdoor discharge is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
M1501.1 Outdoor discharge. The air removed by every mechanical exhaust system
shall be discharged to the outdoors such that the exhaust termination is at least 10 feet
3048 mm) from intakes of other mechanical ventilating systems. Air shall not be
exhausted into an attic, soffit, ridge vent or crawl space.
Exception: Whole-house ventilation-type attic fans that discharge into the attic space of
dwelling units having private attics shall be permitted.
87) A new Section M1501.2 Indoor depressurization is hereby added to read as follows:
M1501.2 Indoor depressurization. Ducted exhaust systems shall not induce or create a
negative pressure sufficient to cause back-drafting of naturally vented, open combustion-
chamber, fuel-burning appliances, or create negative pressure in excess of negative 3-Pa.
in the immediate proximity of combustion chambers of such appliances.
88) Section M1502.4.5.2 Manufacturer's instructions, is hereby deleted in its entirety.
89) Section M1507.3 Whole-house mechanical ventilation system is hereby deleted in its
entirety and the following is hereby added in lieu thereof:
M1507.3 Whole-dwelling unit mechanical ventilation system. For new buildings, a
mechanical exhaust system, supply system, or combination thereof shall be installed for
each dwelling unit to provide whole-dwelling unit ventilation. Such system shall comply
with Sections M1507.3.1 through M1507.3.4.
M1507.3.1 Whole-dwelling unit mechanical ventilation rate. The whole-dwelling unit
mechanical ventilation system shall provide outdoor air at a continuous rate of not less
than that determined in accordance with Table M1507.3.3(1).
37
Exception: The whole-dwelling unit mechanical ventilation system is permitted to
operate intermittently where the system has controls that enable operation for not less
than 25-percent of each 4-hour segment and the ventilation rate prescribed in Table
M1507.3.3(1) is multiplied by the factor determined in accordance with Table
M 1507.3.3(2).
TABLE M1507.3.3(1)
CONTINUOUS WHOLE-HOUSE MECHANICAL VENTILATION SYSTEM AIRFLOW RATE REQUIREMENTS
DWELLING UNIT NUMBER OF BEDROOMS
FLOOR AREA 0-1 1 2-3 1 4-5 6-7 7
square feet) AiAiow in CFM
1.500 30 45 60 75 90
1.501-3.000 45 60 75 90 105
3.001-4.500 60 75 90 105 120
4.501-6.000 75 90 105 120 135
6.001-7.500 90 105 120 135 150
7.500 105 120 135 150 165
For Sh 1 square foot=0.0929 rot.I eubte foot Per minuet=0,0004719 INNS,
TABLE M1507.3.3(2)
INTERMITTENT WHOLE-HOUSE MECHANICAL VENTILATION RATE FACTORS`O
RUN-TIME PERCENTAGE W EACH 4-HOUR 2S% 33% 50% U GM75% 7004GSEGMENT
Factor' 4 1 3 2 1 1.5 1.3 1.0
a. For veroltatbn system net ume values beween those ghee,the factors am permitted to be determined by Interpolatlon.
b_ Extrapolation be}vnd the table is prohibited.
M1507.3.2 System design. The design of the required whole-dwelling unit mechanical
ventilation system shall comply with the requirements of this Section. System design
documents shall be submitted to_the building official at the time of application for a
building permit.
M1507.3.2.1 System type. The system shall consist of one or more supply or exhaust
fans, or a combination thereof, and associated ducts and controls. Exhaust fans shall be
permitted to be part of a mechanical exhaust system. Outdoor air ducts connected to the
return side of an air handler shall be considered to provide supply ventilation.
M1507.3.2.2 Outdoor air intakes. Outdoor air intakes shall have automatic dampers that
close when the ventilation system is not operating.
M1507.3.2.3 Exhausts. Exhausts shall have gravity dampers that close when the
ventilation system is not operating.
M1507.3.2.4. Air circulation fan motors. Motors for air circulation fans used in the
ventilation system, rated at one-quarter horsepower or greater, shall meet at least one of .
the following criteria:
38
1. Where the furnace serves as an air handler for the ventilation system, the furnace
shall be certified as an "Electrically Efficient Furnace" by the Air-conditioning,
Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI).
2.The blower motor shall be specified as a "Brushless DC" (BL or BLDC) motor by
the manufacturer.
3.The blower motor shall be specified as `Brushless Permanent Magnet" (BPM)
motor.
c
4. The blower motor shall be specified as "Electronically Commutated Motor"
ECM)".
5. The blower shall meet equivalent criteria acceptable to the building official.
M1507.3.2.5. System controls. The mechanical ventilation system shall be provided
with readily accessible and labeled controls that enable occupant override.
M1507.3.2.6. Sound ratings for fans. Whole-dwelling unit mechanical ventilation fans
shall be rated for sound at a maximum of 1.5 sones, in accordance with the procedures of
the Home Ventilating. Institute (HVI 915, Procedure for Loudness Rating of Residential
Fan Products).
Exception: Heating, ventilating and air conditioning air handlers and remote-mounted
fans need not meet sound requirements. To be considered for this exception, a remote-
mounted fan must be mounted outside the habitable spaces, bathrooms, toilets and
hallways, and there must be a least 4 ft (1 m) of ductwork between the fan and the intake
grille.
M1507.3.3 System installation: The installation of the whole-dwelling unit mechanical
ventilation system and equipment shall be carried out in accordance with the
manufacturers' design requirements and installation instructions.
M1507.3.4 Performance verification. Performance of installed mechanical ventilation
systems shall be verified in accordance with Section M1309.
90) Section M1601.1 Duct design is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
M1601.1 Duct design. Duct systems serving heating, cooling and ventilation equipment
in new buildings or new systems in additions shall be designed:and fabricated in
accordance with the provisions of this section and ACCA Manual D or other approved
methods.
39
91) Section M1601.1.1 Above-ground duct systems, is hereby retained in its entirety with the
exception of subsection 7 (including subsections 7.1 through 7.5), which is stricken in its
entirety.
92) A new Section, M1601.4.11 Construction debris and contamination is hereby added to
read as follows:
M1601.4.11 Construction debris and contamination. Mechanical air-handling systems
and their related ducts shall be protected from the entrance of dirt, debris, and dust during
the construction and installation process. Prior to passing final inspection or issuance of a
Certificate of Occupancy, such systems shall be substantially free of construction-related
contaminants.
93) Section M1602.2 Return air openings is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
M1602.2 Return air openings. A return air path shall be provided in all habitable rooms
by means of ducts or transfer grills. Return air openings for heating, ventilation and air
conditioning systems shall comply with all of the following:
1.Openings shall not be located less than 10 feet (3048 mm) measured in any
direction from an open combustion chamber or draft hood of another appliance
located in the same room or space.
2. The amount of return air taken from any room or space shall be not greater than
the flow rate of supply air delivered to such room or space.
3. Return and transfer openings shall be sized in accordance with the appliance or
equipment manufacturers' installation instructions, Manual D or the design of the
registered design professional.
4.Return air shall not be taken from a closet, bathroom, toilet room, kitchen, garage,
mechanical room, boiler room, furnace room or unconditioned attic.
Exceptions:
1. Taking return air from a kitchen is not prohibited where such return air openings
serve the kitchen only, and are located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the
cooking appliances.
2.Dedicated forced-air systems serving only the garage shall not be prohibited from
obtaining return air from the garage.
3. Taking return air from an unconditioned crawl space shall not be accomplished
through a direct connection to the return side of a forced-air furnace. Transfer
openings in the crawl space enclosure shall not be prohibited.
40
z
4.Return air from one dwelling unit shall not be discharged into another dwelling
unit.
94) Section G2404.3 (301.3) Listed and labeled is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
G2404.3 (301.3) Listed and labeled. Appliances regulated by this code shall be listed
and labeled for the application in which they are used unless otherwise approved in
accordance with Section R104.1 L"
95) Section G2406.2 (303.3)Prohibited locations is hereby retained in its entirety with the
exception of subsections 3 and 4 which are stricken in their entirety.
96) A new Section G2406.4 (303.5.1) Natural Draft Appliances locations, is hereby added
to read as follows:
G2406.4 Natural Draft Appliances locations. , For new buildings and new appliance or
new HVAC systems installed within additions, natural draft appliances shall not be
located within the building thermal envelope or be located in a space where the only
access to that space is from sleebing rooms, bathrooms, toilet rooms, storage closets, or
surgical rooms.
Exceptions:
1. Where natural draft appliances are located in an enclosed mechanical room and
sealed to air flow from adjoining conditioned area and the following conditions
are met:
a.The access to the mechanical room is through a self-closing, gasketed
door;
b. No other exhaust appliances are located within the mechanical room;
C.The mechanical room is provided with outside combustion air as specified
in this code;
d. The isolation of the mechanical room from adjoining conditioned areas is
verified with a differential-pressure test not exceeding 45 Pascals,
performed by approved licensed contractors;
e.Such natural draft appliances pass a combustion safety test under worst-
case depressurization conditions in accordance with Building Performance
Institute (BPI) Technical Standards for the Heating Professional; and
41
f.Documentation of satisfactory testing results are submitted to the building
official prior to final approval.
2. Natural draft fireplaces that pass a combustion safety test, under worst-case
depressurization conditions, performed by approved licensed contractors and
conducted in accordance with the Building Performance Institute (BPI) Technical
Standards for the Heating Professional, prior to final approval.
97) Section G2407.11 (304.11) Combustion air ducts is hereby retained in its entirety with
the following amendments:
G2407.11(304.11)Combustiotz air ducts. Combustion air ducts shall comply with all of
the following:
1.Ducts shall be constructed of galvanized steel complying with Chapter 16 or of a
material having equivalent corrosion resistance, strength and rigidity.
Exception: Where the installation of galvanized steel ducts is not practical due to
existing finish materials within dwelling units that are undergoing alteration or
reconstruction, unobstructed stud and joist spaces shall not be prohibited from conveying
combustion air, provided that not more than one required fireblock is removed.
9.All combustion air openings or ducts shall be readily. identifiable with an
approved label or by other means warning persons that obstruction of such
openings or ducts may cause fuel-burning equipment to release combustion
products and dangerous levels of carbon monoxide into the building.
98) Section G2408.1 (305.1) General is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
G2408.1(305.1) General. Equipment and appliances shall be installed as required by the
terms of their approval, in accordance with the conditions of listing, the manufacturer's
instructions and this code. Manufacturer's installation instructions shall be available on
the job site at the time of inspection. Where a code provision is less restrictive than the
conditions of the listing of the equipment or appliance or the manufacturer's installation
instructions, the conditions of the listing and the manufacturer's installation instructions
shall apply.
Where natural draft appliances are replaced in existing buildings, all appliances with a
draft hood shall have a Combustion Safety Test (CST) performed under first, the worst-
case conditions and secondly, under natural conditions. The CST shall be performed by
licensed contractors in accordance with the Building Performance Institute (BPI)
Technical Standards for the Heating Professional. If the test passes under the worst-case
conditions, no further testing is required. If the appliance fails the worst-case conditions
42
proceed to the natural conditions test. Appliances that fail the natural conditions test shall
be repaired until a natural condition .test is passed. Should an appliance not pass the
worst-case test, a disclosure form 'reporting the test results shall be provided to the
homeowner. A copy of such disclosure form, signed by the homeowner, shall be
submitted to the building official prior to approval.
99) Section G2408.2 (305.3) Elevation of ignition source is hereby retained in its entirety
with the following amendments:
G2408.2 (305.3) Elevation of ignition source. Electrical devices, equipment and
appliances having an ignition source shall be elevated such that the source of ignition is
not less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor in hazardous locations and public
garages, private garages, repair garages, motor fuel-dispensing facilities and parking
garages. For the purpose of this section, rooms or spaces that are not part of the living
space of a dwelling unit and that communicate directly with a private garage through
openings shall be considered to be part of the private garage.
100) Section G2409.4.4 (308.4.5) Clearance from supply ducts is hereby retained in its
entirety with the following amendments:
G2409.4.4 (308.4.5) Clearance from supply ducts. Supply air ducts connecting to listed
central heating furnaces where the bonnet temperature exceeds 150 °F (68 °C), shall have
the same minimum clearance to combustibles as required for the furnace supply.plenum
for a distance of not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the supply plenum. Clearance is not
required beyond the 3-foot (914 mm) distance.
101) Section G2415.9 (404.9)Above-ground piping outdoors is hereby retained in its entirety
with the following amendments:
G2415.9 (404.9) Above-ground piping outdoors. All piping installed outdoors shall be
elevated not less than 6 inches (152 mm) above ground and where installed across roof
surfaces, shall be elevated not less than 31/2 inches (152 mm) above the roof surface.
Piping installed above ground, outdoors, and installed across the surface of roofs shall be
securely supported and located where it will.be protected from physical damage. Where
passing through an outside wall, the piping shall also be protected against corrosion by
coating or wrapping with an inert material. Where piping is encased in a protective pipe
sleeve, the annular space between the piping and the sleeve shall be sealed.
102) Section G2415.12 (404.12) Minimum burial depth is hereby retained in its
entirety with the following amendments:
G2415.12 (404.12) Minimum burial depth. Underground piping systems shall be
installed a minimum depth of 18 inches (457 mm) below grade, except as provided for in
Section G2415.12.1.
43
L
103) Section G2415.12.1 (404.12.1) Individual outside appliance is hereby kept and
preserved in its entirety with the following amendments:
G2415.12.1 (404.12.1) Individual outside appliances. Individual lines to outside lights,
grills or other appliances shall be installed a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm) below
finished grade.
Exception: Approved materials installed a minimum of 6 inches (152 mm) below
finished grade when covered with a concrete slab 3 1/2 inches (88.9 mm) in minimum
thickness, stone patio, concrete pavers or other approved materials.
104) Section G2415.15 (404.15) Outlet closure is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
G2415.15 (404.15) Outlet closures. Gas outlets and fittings that allow for future gas line
expansion that do not connect to appliances shall be provided with an approved gas
shutoff valve with the end capped gas tight.
Exception:
1. Listed and labeled flush-mounted-type quick-disconnect devices and listed and
labeled gas convenience outlets shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions.
2. Drip/dirt legs installed at the floor level at appliances.
105) Section G2416.1 (405.1) General is hereby retained in its entirety with the following
amendments:
G2416.1 (405.1) General. Changes in direction of rigid metallic pipe specified in
G2414.4 shall be made only by the use of fittings and factory bends.
106) Section G2416.2 (405.2)Metallic pipe is hereby deleted in its entirety.
107) Section G2417.4.1 (406.4.1) Test pressure is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
G2417.4.1 (406.4.1) Test pressure. The test pressure to be used shall be not less than
one and one-half times the proposed maximum working pressure, but not less than 10
psig (67 kPa gauge) irrespective of design pressure. Where the test pressure exceeds 125
psig (862 kPa gauge), the test pressure shall not exceed a value that produces 'a hoop
stress in the piping greater than 50 percent of the specified minimum yield strength of the
pipe.
108) A new Section G2420.3.1 (409.3.2.1) Exterior appliances is hereby added to'read as
44
follows:
G2420.3.1 (409.3.2.1) Exterior appliances Any building serving exterior appliances
shall provide a shut-off valve at the exterior of the building.
109) Section G2420.5.2 (409.5.2) Vented decorative appliances and room heaters is hereby
retained in its entirety with the following amendments: .
G2420.5.2 (409.5.2) Vented decorative appliances and room heaters. Shutoff valves
for vented decorative appliances, room heaters and decorative appliances for installation
in vented fireplaces shall be permitted to be installed in an area remote from the
appliances where such valves are provided with ready access. Such valves shall be
permanently identified and shall serve no other appliance. Remote valves shall be
operable on the same floor as the appliance served and within 12 feet (3.658 m) of the
appliance as measured along the floor line. The piping from the shutoff valve to within 6
feet (1829 mm) of the appliance shall be designed, sized and installed in accordance with
Sections G2412 through G2419.
110) Section G2421.3 (410.3) Venting of regulators is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
G2421.3 (410.3) Venting of regulators. Pressure regulators that require a vent shall be
vented directly to the outdoors. The vent shall be designed to prevent the entry of insects,
water, or foreign objects. Vents shall not terminate within 3 feet (0.916 m) of openings
into the building.
Exception: A vent to the outdoors is not required for regulators equipped with and
labeled for utilization with an approved vent-limiting device installed in accordance with
the manufacturer's.instructions.
111) Section G2425.8 (501.8) Appliances not.required to be vented is hereby kept and
preserved in its entirety with the exception of.subsection 7, which is stricken in its
entirety.
112) Section G2427.5.5.1 (503.5.6.1) Chimney lining is hereby retained in its entirety with
the following amendments:
G2427.5.5.1 (503.5.6.1) Chimney lining. Chimneys shall be lined in accordance with
NFPA 211.
113) Section G2427.6.4(503.6.5)Minimum height is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
G2427.6.4 (503.6.5) Minimum height. A Type B or L gas vent shall terminate at least 5
feet (1524 mm) in vertical height above the highest connected appliance draft hood or
flue collar. A Type B-W gas vent shall terminate at least 12 feet (3658 mm) in vertical
45
l L
height above the bottom of the wall furnace. All gas vents shall terminate a minimum of
22 inches (559 nun) above the surface or grade directly below.
114) _Section G2439.3 (614.4) Exhaust installation is hereby retained in its entirety with the _
following amendments:
G2439.3 (614.4) Exhaust installation. Dryer exhaust.ducts for clothes dryers shall
terminate on the outside of the building and shall be equipped with a backdraft damper.
Dryer exhaust duct terminations shall not be located within 36 inches (914 mm) of
exterior openings into conditioned spaces, crawl spaces and attics. Screens shall not be
installed at the duct termination. Ducts shall not be connected or installed with sheet
metal screws or other fasteners that will obstruct the flow. Clothes dryer exhaust ducts
shall not be connected to a vent connector, vent or chimney. Clothes dryer exhaust ducts
shall not extend into or through ducts or plenums.
115) Section G2439.7.4.2 (614.8.4.2) Manufacturer's instructions, is hereby deleted in its
entirety.
116) Section G2445 (621), Unvented Room Heaters, is hereby deleted in its entirety.
117) A new Section G2447.6 (623.8) Kitchens with gas cooking is hereby added to read as
follows:
G2447.6 Kitchens with gas cooking. Residential kitchens with gas cooking appliances
shall be supplied with an exhaust system vented to the outside. Ducts serving kitchen
exhaust systems shall not terminate in an-attic or crawl space or areas inside the building
and shall not induce or create a negative pressure in excess of negative 3 Pa or adversely
affect gravity-vented appliances.
118) A new Section G2451.3 (630.3) Combustion and ventilation air is hereby added to read
as follows:
G2451.3 (630.3) Combustion and ventilation air Where infrared heaters are installed,
natural or mechanical means shall provide outdoor ventilation air at a rate of not less than
4 cfm per 1,000 Btu/h (0.38 m3/min/kW) of the aggregate input rating of all such heaters
installed in the space. Exhaust openings for removing flue products shall be above the
level of the heaters.
119) Section G2454.1 (636.1) General is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
G2454.1 (636.1) General. Permanently fixed-in-place outdoor decorative appliances
shall be tested in accordance with ANSI Z21.97 and shall be provided with a flame
safeguard device and be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
46
Appliances shall not be located beneath or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible
construction or as allowed by the listing.
120) Section P2503.5.1 Rough Plumbing is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
P2503.5.1 Rough plumbing. DWV systems shall be tested on completion of the rough
piping installation by water or by air with no evidence of leakage. Either test shall be
applied to the drainage system in its entirety or.in sections after rough piping has been
installed, as follows:
1. Water test. Each section shall be filled with water to a point not less than 10 feet
3048 mm) above the highest fitting connection in that section, or to the highest
point in the completed system. Water shall be held in the section under test for a
period of 15 minutes. The system shall prove leak free by visual inspection.
2.Air test. The portion under test shall be'maintained at a gauge pressure of 5
pounds per square inch (psi) (34 kPa) or 10 inches of mercury column (34 kPa).
This pressure shall be held without introduction of additional air for a period of 15
minutes.
121) Section P2903.2 Maximum flow and water consumption is hereby retained in its
entirety with the following amendments:
P2903.2 Maximum flow and water consumption. The maximum water consumption
flow rates and quantities for all plumbing fixtures and fixture fittings shall be in
accordance with Table P2903.2 and such fixtures shall be Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) WaterSense® labeled fixtures or such fixtures and fittings that provide the
equivalent maximum flow rates.
122) Table P2903.2 is hereby retained in its entirety with the following amendments:
Table P2903.2 Maximum Flow Rates and Consumption For Plumbing Fixtures and
Fixture Fittings In
PLUMBING FIXTURE MAXIMUM FLOW RATES
OR FIXTURE FITTING
Lavatory faucet 1.5 gpm at 60 psi
Shower head' 2.0 gpm at 80 psi
Sink faucet 1.8 gpm at 60 psi
1.6 gallons per Flushing cycle
Water closet 1.28 gallons per flushing cycle,with minimum Map threshold of 350 grams
For SI: 1 gallon per minute(gpm) =3.785 Um.
pound per square inch(psi)=6.895 kPa
2 A handheld shower spray is also a shower head
3 Consumption tolerances shall be determined from referenced standards.
47
123) A new Section E3401.5 Electrical Vehicle Ready is hereby added to read as follows:
Section E3401.5 Electrical Vehicle Ready. All new single family dwellings with an
attached garage or carport shall be provided with an empty conduit of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm)
minimum, installed from the dwellings electrical panel board to a junction box in readily
accessible location in the garage or carport, capable of supporting a 30 ampere 220 volt
outlet.
124) A new Section E3401.6 Photovoltaic Ready is hereby added to read as follows:
Section E3401.6 Photovoltaic Ready All new single family dwellings shall be provided
with an empty conduit of 3/4 inch (19.05 mm) minimum, installed from the dwellings
attic space beneath the roof which most likely would support the majority of installed
photovoltaic system, to a junction box located within 12 inches of the dwellings electrical
meter or connected directly to the dwellings electrical panel board.
125) Chapter 44 Referenced Standards is hereby retained in its entirety with the
following amendments:
ANSUACCA QI 5-2007 HVAC Quality Installation Specification.
Referenced in Amended 2012 IRC Section M1309 Performance verification
Installation MastersTm Testing and Certification Program
Referenced in Amended 2012 IRC Section R703.8.1 Fenestration installation
CDPH California Department of Public Health
1615 Capitol Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95814
CDPH 01350 Standard Method for Testing VOC emissions from indoor sources
Referenced in Amended 2012 IRC Section R325.1 Low-volatile organic compound
VOC) materials.
FSC Forest Stewardship Council U.S. (FSC-US)
212 Third Avenue North, Suite 504
Minneapolis, MN 55401
GEI GREENGUARD Environmental Institute
2211 Newmarket Parkway, Suite 110
Marietta, GA 30067
GGPS.00I.GREENGUARD IAQ Standard for Building Materials, Finishes and
Furnishings
Referenced in Amended 2012 IRC Section R325.1 Low-volatile organic compound
VOC) materials.
Green Seal® 1001 Connecticut Avenue, NW
48
Suite 827
Washington, DC 20036-5525
GS-11 Paintings and Coatings
GS-43 Recycled Content Latex Paints
Referenced in Amended 2012 IRC Section R325.1 Low-volatile organic compound
VOC) materials.
HVI Home Ventilating Institute
1000 N Rand Rd, Ste 214
Wauconda, IL 60084 USA
HVI referenced standard HVI 915, Procedure for Loudness Rating of Residential Fan
Products
Referenced in Amended 2012 IRC Section M1507.4.2.6. Sound ratings for fans.
IDA International Dark-Sky Association
3225 N. First Avenue
Tucson, Arizona 85719
IDA fixture seal of approval (FSA) third-party certification for luminaires that minimize
glare, reduce light trespass, and don't pollute the night sky.
http://www.darksky.org/
http://www.darksky.org/outdoorlighting/mlo
http://www.darksky.org/outdoorlighting/about-fsa
RESNETO Mortgage Industry National Home Energy Rating Systems Standards
Residential Energy Services Network, Inc.
P.O. Box 4561
Oceanside, CA 92052-4561
http://resnet.us
RESNETO reference standard Grade I and Grade II Insulation
Referenced in Amended 2012 IRC Section N1102.2 Specific insulation requirements.
126) APPENDIX E, MANUFACTURED HOUSING USED AS DWELLINGS, is hereby
adopted in its entirety.
127) APPENDIX F. RADON CONTROL METHODS, is hereby retained in its
entirety with the following amendments:
APPENDIX F— RADON CONTROL METHODS
SECTION AF101 TITLE, SCOPE AND PURPOSE
AF101.1 Title. These provisions shall be known as Appendix Chapter F, the FORT
COLLINS RADON RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION CODE FOR ONE- AND TWO-
49
1.
FAMILY DWELLINGS, and shall be cited as such and will be referred to herein as this
appendix.
AF101.2 Scope. The provisions of this appendix shall apply to new one- and two-family
dwellings completely separated from adjacent dwellings by unobstructed physical space
detached) and multiple, attached single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than
three stories in height and with each townhouse having its own separate means of egress.
AF01.3 Purpose. The purpose of this appendix is to provide minimum requirements to
enhance the public safety, health and general welfare, through construction methods
designed and installed to resist entry of radon gas into the occupied spaces of buildings
regulated by this appendix.
SECTION AF102
DEFINITIONS
AF102.1 General.-For the purpose of these requirements, the terms used shall be defined
as follows:
DWELLING UNIT, SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED. An independent building
completely separated from adjacent dwellings by unobstructed physical space,
exclusively containing one dwelling unit located entirely on a separately recorded and
platted parcel of land (site) bounded by property lines, and which parcel is deeded
exclusively for such single-family dwelling.
DWELLING UNIT, TWO-FAMILY DETACHED. An independent building ,
completely separated from adjacent dwellings by unobstructed physical space,
exclusively containing two dwelling units located entirely on a separately recorded and
platted parcel of land (site) bounded by property lines, and which parcel is deeded
exclusively for such two-family dwelling.
FOUNDATION DRAIN SYSTEM. A continuous length of drain tile, perforated pipe,
or filter mat extending around all or part of the internal or external perimeter of a
basement or crawl space footing designed to collect and drain away excess subsurface
water.
RADON. A naturally occurring, chemically inert, radioactive gas that is not detectable
by human senses and can move readily through particles of soil and rock and can
accumulate under the slabs and foundations of homes where it can easily enter the living
space through construction cracks and openings.
SOIL-GAS-RETARDER. A continuous membrane, of 3-mil (0.075 mm) cross-linked
polyethylene or other equivalent material used to retard the flow of soil gases into a
building.
50
SUBFLOOR. A concrete slab and other approved permanent floor system that directly
contacts the ground and is within the walls of the living spaces of the building.
SUB-MEMBRANE DEPRESSURIZATION SYSTEM. A system designed to achieve
lower sub-membrane air pressure relative to crawl space air pressure by use of a vent
drawing air from beneath the soil-gas-retarder membrane.
SUB-SLAB DEPRESSURIZATION SYSTEM (Passive). A system designed to
achieve lower sub-slab air pressure relative to indoor air pressure by use of a vent pipe
routed through the conditioned space of a building and connecting the sub-slab area with
outdoor air, thereby relying on the convective flow of air upward in the vent to draw air
from beneath the slab.
TOWNHOUSE. A single-family dwelling unit constructed as part of a group of two or
more attached individual dwelling units, each of which is separated from the other from
the foundation to the roof and is located entirely on a separately recorded and platted
parcel of land (site) bounded by property lines, and which parcel is deeded exclusively
for such single-family dwelling.
SECTION AF103 REQUIREMENTS
AF103.1 General. The following required construction methods are intended to resist
radon entry and prepare the building for post-construction radon mitigation (see Figure
AF 102).
AF103.2 Subfloor preparation. A layer of gas-permeable material shall be placed under
all subfloors. The gas-permeable layer shall consist of one of the following methods
except that where fills of aggregate size less than that described in Method lare used
beneath a slab, Method 2,3, 4,.or 5 must be used.
1. A uniform layer of clean aggregate, a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) thick. The
aggregate shall consist of material that will pass through a 2-inch (51 mm) sieve
and be retained by a 1/4 -inch (6.4 mm) sieve. In buildings where interior footings
or other barriers separate sub-grade areas, penetrations through the interior
footing or barrier equal to a minimum of 12 square inches (0.094 m2) per 10 feet
3.048 m) of barrier length shall be provided. A minimum of two penetrations
shall be provided per separation and be evenly spaced along the separation.
Exception:
In buildings where interior footings or other barriers separate the sub-grade area,
separate radon vent pipes may be installed for each sub-grade area as specified in
Section AF103.5.2 in lieu of penetrations through the barrier:
2.A foundation drain pipe system installed under concrete floor slab areas less than
2,000 square feet (186 m2), consisting of a continuous loop of minimum 3-inch
51
76 mm.) diameter perforated pipe shall be laid in the sub-grade with the top of
pipe located 1 inch (25.4 mm) below the concrete slab. The pipe may be rigid or
flexible but shall have perforations fully around the circumference with a free air
space equal to 1.83 square inches per square foot (127 cm2/ m2) of exterior pipe
surface area. Such pipe shall be wrapped with approved filter material to prevent
blocking of pipe perforations. The pipe loop shall be located inside of the exterior
perimeter foundation walls not more than 12 inches (305 mm) from the perimeter
foundation walls. In buildings where interior footings or other barriers separate
the sub-grade area, the loop of pipe shall penetrate, or pass beneath such interior
footings or barriers. For slab areas greater than 2,000 square feet (186 m 2) but less
than 4,000 square feet (372 m2), the preceding configuration may be used
provided a minimum of 4-inch diameter (102 mm) pipe is installed. Slabs in
excess of 4,000 square feet (372 m2) shall have under them,separate loops for
every additional 2,000 square feet (186 m2) of slab area when 3-inch (76 mm)
diameter pipe is used; or, slabs may have separate loops provided for each
additional increment in area between 2,000 square feet (186 m 2) and 4,000 square
feet (372 m2) when 4-inch (102 mm) diameter pipe is used.
3. A foundation drain soil gas collection mat system installed under concrete floor
slab areas of 2,000 square feet (186 m2) or less, consisting of a continuous
rectilinear loop of soil gas collection mat or drainage mat having minimum
dimensions of 1 inch in height by 12 inches in width (25.4 mm in height x 305
mm in width) and a nominal cross-sectional air flow area of 12 square inches
0.0078 m2) may be laid on top of the sub-grade. The mat shall be constructed of
a matrix that allows for the movement of air through it and be capable of
supporting the concrete placed upon it. The matrix shall be covered by approved
filter material on all four sides to prevent dirt or concrete from entering the
matrix. All breaches and joints in the filter material shall be repaired prior to the
placement of the slab. The loop shall be located inside the exterior perimeter
foundation walls and within 12 inches (305 mm) from the perimeter foundation
walls. In buildings where interior footings or other barriers separate the sub-
grade area, the mat shall penetrate these interior footings or barriers to form a
continuous loop around the exterior perimeter.
Slabs larger than 2,000 square feet (186 m 2) but less than 4,000 square feet (372
m2) shall have under them an additional strip of mat that bisects the loop forming
two areas approximately equally divided by the two halves of the rectilinear loop.
Slabs larger than 4,000 square feet (372 m 2) shall have separate loops for each
2,000 (186 m2) square feet; or, increased to 4,000 square feet (372 m2) when a
loop is bisected as specified in the preceding configuration.
4.A uniform layer of sand (native or fill), a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) thick,
overlain by a layer or strips of geo-textile drainage matting designed to allow the
lateral flow of soil gases.
52
5.Other materials, systems or floor designs with demonstrated capability to permit
depressurization across the entire sub-floor area.
AF103.3 Entry routes. Potential radon entry.routes shall be closed in accordance with
Sections AF103.3.1 through AF103.3.11.
AF103.3.1 Floor openings. Openings around bathtubs, showers, water closets, pipes,
wires or other objects that penetrate concrete slabs or other floor assemblies shall be
filled with a polyurethane caulk or equivalent sealant applied in accordance with the
manufacturer's recommendations.
AF103.3.2 Concrete joints. All control joints, isolation joints, construction joints and
any other joints in concrete slabs or between slabs and foundation walls shall be sealed
with a caulk or sealant. Gaps and joints shall be cleared of loose material and filled with
polyurethane caulk or other elastomeric sealant applied ' in accordance with the
manufacturer's recommendations.
AF103.3.3 Condensate drains. Condensate drains shall be trapped or routed through
non- perforated pipe to daylight.
AF103.3.4 Sumps. Sump pits open to soil or serving as the termination point for sub-slab
or exterior drain tile loops shall be covered with a gasketed or otherwise sealed lid.
Sumps used as the suction point in a sub-slab,depressurization system shall have a lid
designed to accommodate the vent pipe. Sumps used as a floor drain shall have a lid
equipped with a trapped inlet and view port.
AF103.3.5 Foundation walls. Hollow block masonry foundation walls shall be
constructed with either a continuous course of solid masonry, one course of masonry
grouted solid, or a solid concrete beam at-or above finished ground surface to prevent
passage of air from the interior of the wall into the living space. Where a brick veneer or
other masonry ledge is installed, the course immediately below that ledge shall be sealed.
Joints, cracks or other openings around all penetrations of both exterior and interior
surfaces of masonry block or wood foundation walls below the ground surface shall be
filled with polyurethane caulk or equivalent sealant. Penetrations of concrete walls shall
be filled.
AF103.3.6 Dampproofing. The exterior surfaces of portions of concrete and masonry
block walls below the ground surface shall be damp-proofed in accordance with Section
R406 of this appendix.
AF103.3.7 Air-handling units. Air-handling units in crawl spaces shall be sealed to
prevent air from being drawn into the unit.
Exception: Units with gasketed seams or units that are otherwise sealed by the
manufacturer to prevent leakage.
53
AF103.3.8 Ducts. Ductwork passing through or .beneath a slab shall be of seamless
material unless the air-handling system is designed to maintain continuous positive
pressure within such ducting. Joints in such ductwork shall be sealed to prevent air
leakage. Ductwork located in crawl spaces shall have all seams and joints sealed by
closure systems in accordance with Section M1601.3.1.
AF103.4 Sub-membrane depressurization system. In buildings with interior structural
floors directly above under-floor spaces containing exposed soil surfaces that are not
protected by a sub.-slab .depressurization system, the following,components of a sub-
membrane depressurization system shall be installed during construction.
Exception: Buildings in which an approved mechanical ventilation system complying
with Section R408 or such other equivalent system that provides equivalent
depressurization across the entire sub-membrane area as determined by the building
official is installed in the under-floor spaces.
AF103.4.1Ventilation. Crawl spaces and similar under-floor spaces shall be provided
with ventilation complying with Section R408.
AF103.4.2 Soil-gas-retarder. The exposed soil in under-floor spaces shall be covered
with a continuous layer of soil-gas-retarder. Such ground cover joints shall overlap 6
inches (152 mm) and be sealed or taped. The edges of the ground cover shall extend a
minimum of 6 inches (152mm) up onto all foundation walls enclosing the under-floor
space and shall be attached and sealed to foundation walls in an approved manner.
AF103.4.3 Vent pipe riser.^A plumbing tee or other approved connection shall be
inserted horizontally beneath the sheeting and connected to a 3- or 4-inch-diameter (76
mm or 102 mm) fitting with a vertical vent pipe installed through the sheeting. The vent
pipe shall be extended up through the building floors, terminate at least 12 inches (305
mm) above the roof'in a location at least 10 feet (3.048 m) away from any window or
other opening into the conditioned spaces of the building that is less than 2 feet (0.610 m)
below the exhaust point, and 10 feet (3.048 m) from any window or other opening in
adjoining or.adjacent buildings.
AF103.5 Sub-slab depressurization system. The following components of a sub-slab
depressurization system shall be installed during construction under basement or slab-on-
grade floors.
AF103.5.1 Vent pipe riser. A minimum 3-inch-diameter (76 mm) ABS, or PVC DWV
pipe, or equivalent gas-tight pipe shall be embedded vertically into the sub-slab aggregate
or other permeable material before the slab is cast. A "T" fitting or equivalent method
shall be used to ensure that the pipe opening remains within the sub-slab permeable
material. Alternatively, the 3-inch (76 mm) pipe shall be inserted directly into an interior
perimeter drain tile loop or through a sealed sump cover where the sump is exposed to the
sub-slab aggregate or connected to it through a drainage system.
c
54
All vent pipes shall be extended up through the building floors and terminate at least 12
inches (305 mm) above the surface of the roof in a location at least 10 feet (3.048 m)
away from any window, air intake, or other opening into the conditioned spaces of the
building that is less than 2 feet (0.610 m) below the exhaust point, and 10 feet (3.048 m)
from any window or other opening in adjoining or adjacent buildings. The discharge end
of vent pipe terminations shall be unobstructed and protected.from small animal entry
with a corrosion-resistant screen having openings between .25 inch (6.4 mm) and .5 inch
12.7 mm).
AF103.5.2 Multiple vent pipes. In buildings where interior footings or other barriers
separate the sub-slab aggregate or other gas-permeable material, each area shall be fitted
with an individual vent pipe. Vent pipes shall connect to a single vent that terminates
above the roof or each individual vent pipe shall terminate separately above the roof.
AF103.6 Vent pipe drainage. All components of the radon vent pipe system shall be
installed to provide positive drainage to the ground beneath the slab or soil-gas retarder.
AF103.7 Vent pipe accessibility. Radon vent pipes shall be accessible for fan
installation through an attic or other area outside the habitable space.
Exception: The radon vent pipe need not be accessible in an attic space where an
approved roof-top electrical supply is,provided.
AF103.8 Vent pipe identification and notification. All exposed and visible interior
radon vent pipes shall be conspicuously identified with at least one label on each floor
and in attics provided with access openings. The label shall read substantially as follows:
Radon Reduction System. In addition to the preceding label, a notice shall be placed in a
conspicuous area near the vent pipe that states the following:
THIS RADON REDUCTION SYSTEM IS NOT REQUIRED TO BE TESTED AND IS
A (PASSIVE) SYSTEM, RELYING ENTIRELY ON NATURAL VENTILATION.
OCCUPANTS ARE ADVISED TO TEST FOR RADON AND TAKE REMEDIAL
ACTION AS NECESSARY BY INSTALLING A CONTINUOUSLY-OPERATING
FAN LOCATED IN THE VENT PIPE (ACCESS TYPICALLY PROVIDED IN THE
ATTIC) AND CONNECTED TO THE NEARBY PROVIDED ELECTRICAL
OUTLET. Call 1-800-767-RADON FOR MORE INFORMATION.
AF103.9 Combination foundations. Combination basement/crawl space or slab-on-
grade/crawl space foundations shall have separate radon vent pipes installed in each type
of foundation area. Each radon vent pipe shall terminate above the roof or shall be
connected to a single vent that terminates above the roof.
AF103.10 Building depressurization. Joints in air ducts and plenums in unconditioned
spaces shall be substantially air tight and permanently sealed with an approved sealant,
mastic, or other approved methods. Thermal envelope air infiltration requirements shall
comply with the energy conservation provisions in the energy conservation code
J
55
currently enacted by the City. Firestopping shall be in conformance with the most recent
general building code enacted by the City or meet the requirements contained in Section
R602.8.
AF103.11 Provisions for future depressurization fan installation. Permanent
provisions shall be made for the.future installation of an in-line fan to be connected to
every radon vent pipe. Such designated fan locations shall be outside of the conditioned
envelope of the building, such as in the attic, garage and similar locations, excluding
crawl spaces and other , interior under-,floor spaces. Designated locations shall
accommodate an unobstructed permanent cylindrical space with the following minimum
dimensions: 12 inches (305 mm) measured radially around the radon vent pipe along a
vertical distance of 30 inches (760 mm). Designated fan locations shall be permanently
accessible for servicing and maintenance. An electrical circuit shall be provided within 4
feet (1.219 m) of and within sight from designated fan locations. Such circuit shall have a
means of positive disconnection and be terminated in an approved electrical outlet in
accordance with the applicable current electric code.
I
AF103.12 Depressurization fan system activation. When a passive system as
constructed in accordance with this appendix,is to be converted to an active system, an
approved in-line fan shall be installed in a designated fan location as specified in Section
AF103.11.1. Additionally, an approved permanent electric light fixture and in-line pipe
couplings that facilitate fan replacement shall be provided. The in-line fan shall be
designed to operate continuously for a period of not less than five years and have a
minimum air-flow rating as established by the building official. A readily accessible
manometer or other approved warning device that notifies occupants of a fan malfunction
by a visible or audible signal shall be installed within the dwelling unit. A separate permit
shall be required for installation of such fan when it is not installed at the time the
building is originally approved for occupancy.
128) APPENDIX H. PATIO COVERS, is hereby adopted in its entirety.
129) APPENDIX M, HOME DAY-CARE R-3 OCCUPANCIES, is hereby adopted in its
entirety.
Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 6th day of
June, A.D. 2017, and to be presented for final passage on the 5th day of July, A.D. 2017.
F;•Cayor
uy
ATTEST:o0COLORP
v v V
City Clerk
56
Passed and adopted on final reading on this 5thAay of July, A.D. 2017.
pORT Co`<
1fjSEAL :Mayor
ATTEST: 9o.....
City Clerk
57 .
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE is hereby given of a public hearing to be held before the City Council of the
City of Fort Collins, Colorado, on the 6th day of June, A.D., 2017 at 6:00 p.m., or as soon
thereafter as the matter may come on for hearing, in the Council Chambers at the City Hall, 300
LaPorte Avenue, Fort Collins, Colorado for the purpose of considering the adoption of
ordinances adopting by reference the 2015 International Building Code, 2015 International
Residential Code, 2015 International Energy Conservation Code, 2015 International
Mechanical Code, and the 2015 International Fuel Gas Code together with local amendments,
promulgated by the International Code Council.
Not less than one (1) copy of said Codes has been, and now is on file in the Office of the
City Clerk of the City of Fort Collins and is available for public inspection.
I
The purpose of the International Building Code, International Residential Code,
International Energy Conservation Code, International Mechanical Code, and the International
Fuel Gas Code adopted by said ordinance is to provide for protection of public health and safety
and general welfare.
The City of Fort Collins will make reasonable accommodations for access to City
services, programs and activities and will make special communication arrangements for persons
with disabilities. Please call 221-6515 (V/TDD: Dial 711 for Relay Colorado) for assistance.
This notice is given and published by order of the City of Fort Collins, Colorado.
Dated at Fort Collins, Colorado this 14th day of May, A.D. 2017.
Wanda Winkelmann
City Clerk