1. ID 234 Building Codes Fall 2012

2. 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

3. 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

4. Codes throughout the Design Process

5. 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…

6. 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