Requirements Per IRC Residential Code

Requirements Per IRC Residential Code 2003

 

Setbacks

  • Check setbacks with Code Officer

Egress Windows

  • Sill height no more than 44” off floor
  • Minimum net clear opening: 5.7 sq. ft.
  • Minimum net clear opening: Height 24”, Width 20”

Smoke Detectors

  • Must be hard wired with battery backup and installed on all floors and in all sleeping areas, and within 10’ of sleeping areas

Stairs

  • Risers:
    • Residential - Not less than 4”, nor more than 8 ¼”
    • Commercial - Not less than 4” nor more than 7”
  • Treads:
    • Residential - Not less than 9”
    • Commercial - Not less than 11”

Handrails 

  • Inside - Not less than 30” high nor more than 38” high
  • Outside - Not less than 34”high nor more than 38” high
  • Balusters - Constructed such that a sphere with a diameter of 4” cannot pass through any opening

Guardrails

  • Residential - Not less than 36”
  • Commercial - Not less than 42”

Fire Separation

  • 1 hour fire rating between garages and any living space

Chimney

  • Must be constructed per NFPA 211

Inspections

  • Footing
  • Foundation
  • Rough framing
  • Electrical-wiring
  • Electrical entrance
  • Plumbing
  • Septic
  • Final (occupancy)

Permit Life

  • Permits are good for 2 years from date issued