ID 234 Building Codes Fall 2012

What are building codes, anyway? Various jurisdictions (local, regional, state, federal) – Laws – Regulations – Prescriptive (specific requirements that must be met) – Performance (more generally described – gives an objective but not specific instructions on how to achieve it. These are meant to be used in conjunction with prescriptive codes, typically for a specific part of a project) What they control – Site development, including building size – Building construction – Building performance (energy usage, fires) – Accessibility – Occupant safety

Key terms Accessible: Areas, products or devices usable by persons with disabilities, as required by the codes, legislation, & standards Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ): Organizations, offices, or individuals that administer & enforce codes Codes Official: Building official with AHJ. Often a building inspector and sometimes a fire marshal Codes Department: Local government agency with AHJ Jurisdiction: Determined geographical area that uses the same codes, standards & regulations (town or state) Performance/Prescriptive Codes: general vs. specific. Sustainable design: Buildings and spaces designed to lessen the impact on the environment through energy and resource efficiency

Codes throughout the Design Process

Determining which ones are in effect Local jurisdiction first – look online – Building department, inspectional services – Call the Building Official – Versions of code and zoning bylaws State building codes Federal building codes Possibly a separate fire code or, call a code consultant…

What happens if you don’t comply Before construction, the design must change – you pay After construction, the building itself must change – you pay Liability of at least 10 years No jail time