The Building Code Standards Committee, in accordance with the rule making authority of R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 23-27.3-109.3(a) through (c) inclusive, has formally adopted and promulgated as the Rhode Island State Building Code, the provisions of the International Building Code, 2012 edition, as published by the International Code Council, Inc. (I.C.C.), together with amendments thereto hereinafter set forth to the articles and sections of this code:

A. The provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 23-27.3 establishing administration and enforcement are hereby incorporated by reference. Chapter 1: Administration immediately follows and is supplemental to the General Laws. Editorial Note: Code users please note:

1. When purchasing or using the IBC 2012 code, please take note of the particular printing edition. Errata to that printing edition is available on-line directly at no charge at www.iccsafe.org/cs/codes/pages/errata.aspx or call the office of the State Building Code Commissioner at 401-222-1129 for further information.

2. Printed copies of the administrative and enforcement provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 23-27.3 are available at the Office of the State Building Code Commission or on-line at http://www.rilin.state.ri.us/Statutes/TITLE23/23-27.3/INDEX.HTM

3. The International Building Code, 2012 Edition, is protected by the copyright that has been issued to the ICC. As a result, the State Building Code is not available in complete form to the public in an electronic format. The International Building Code 2012 edition that is referred to within is contained in a printed volume and is also in an electronic format that have been published by the ICC under an exclusive license.

4. The Office of the State Building Code Commissioner has purchased volumes of these codes and they shall be distributed to Rhode Island cities and towns during the month of June 2013 so that local officials will have access to the code prior to the implementation of these rules on July 1, 2013.

5. In order to assure public access to this code the Office of the State Building Code Commissioner shall provide a copy of this code to the Rhode Island State Library, which is located on the second floor of the State House. In addition, all codes may be viewed during business hours at the Department of Administration’s Library which is located on the fourth floor of the William E. Powers Building, One Capitol Hill, Providence.

B. The Legislative Regulation Committee approved adoption of this code on July 1, 2013.

Delete IBC 101.1 Title, 101.2 Scope and 101.2.1 Appendices and substitute the following:

101.1 Title

This regulation shall be known as SBC-1-2013, the Rhode Island State Building Code, hereinafter referred to as “this code”.

101.2 Scope

The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.

Exceptions:

1. Detached one-and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (town houses) not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures shall comply with the SBC-2-2013 The Rhode Island One and Two-Family Dwelling Code.

2. Existing buildings undergoing repair, alterations or additions and changes of occupancy shall comply with the provisions of this code or the State Rehabilitation Code SRC-1-2002 (see R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3-106.0).

101.2.1 Appendices

Delete appendices A, B, D, J, and K. Appendices C, E, F, G, H, I apply.

Delete IBC 101.4, and 101.4.1 through 101.4.7 Referenced Codes in its entirety and substitute the following:

101.4 Referenced Codes.

The other codes listed in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.7 and referenced elsewhere in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.

101.4.1 Electrical.

The provisions of Rhode Island Electrical Code SBC-5-2011 shall apply wherever referenced in this code as the ICC Electrical Code, and shall apply to the installation of electrical systems, including alterations, repairs, replacement, equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances thereto.

101.4.2 Gas.

The provisions of the Rhode Island Fuel Gas Code SBC-19-2013 shall apply wherever referenced in this code as the International Fuel Gas Code, and shall apply to the installation of gas piping from the point of delivery, gas appliances and related accessories as covered in this code. These requirements apply to gas piping systems extending from the point of delivery to the inlet connections of appliances and the installation and operation of residential and commercial gas appliances and related accessories.

101.4.3 Mechanical.

The provisions of the Rhode Island Mechanical Code SBC-4-2013 shall apply wherever referenced in this code as the International Mechanical Code and shall apply to the installation, alterations, repairs and replacement of mechanical systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and/or appurtenances, including ventilating, heating, cooling, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, incinerators and other energy-related systems.

101.4.4 Plumbing.

The provisions of Rhode Island Plumbing Code SBC-3-2013 shall apply wherever referenced in this code as the International Plumbing Code, and shall apply to the installation, alteration, repair and replacement of plumbing systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, and where connected to a water or sewage system and all aspects of a medical gas system.

101.4.5 Property Maintenance.

The provisions of the Rhode Island State Property Maintenance Code SBC-6-2013 Provides requirements for continued use and maintenance buildings and property, and of related plumbing, mechanical, electrical and fire protection systems in existing residential and non-residential structures.

101.4.6 Fire Prevention Code.

The provisions of or references to the International Fire Code 2009 edition shall be cross referenced to the appropriate section of the Rhode Island Uniform Fire Code. The chapters referencing construction standards will apply to either the Rhode Island Uniform Fire Code Standards {R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-28.01 et seq.}. as referenced and amended NFPA 1 and NFPA 101 and those standards will apply when this code references such a section or requirement. These cross-references are not intended to impose any enforcement requirements on state or local fire officials, and any conflicts with the State Fire Safety Codes shall be resolved in favor of the more strict standard, and that standard shall be enforced by the appropriate designated authority having jurisdiction.

101.4.7 Energy.

The provisions of the Rhode Island Energy Code SBC-8-2013 shall apply wherever referenced in this code as International Energy Conservation Code, and shall apply to all matters governing the design and construction of buildings for energy efficiency.

Any and all such references to the various International Code Council family of codes shall be substituted for the appropriate state code as indicated above.

Delete sections:

103, 104.1 to 104.8, 105.3, 105.3.1, 105.3.2, 105.5, 107.1, 107.3.1, 107.3.2, 107.3.4, 107.3.4.1, 108.2, 111.4, 113.1, 113.2, 113.3, 114.1, 114.2, 114.3, 115.1, 115.2, 115.3, 116.1, 116.2, 116.3, 116.4, 116.5.

All other Administrative provisions shall remain in effect. To the extent that there is an apparent conflict between the provisions of these administrative sections and R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3 101.0 et al, the provisions of state law shall prevail. Where other provisions of this code refer to provisions of Chapter 1 Administration, or R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3-101.0 et al shall apply as appropriate.

Add the following definitions:

"Commissioner" means the State Building Code Commissioner, the Building Official responsible to enforce this code in accordance with the provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3-108.2 of this code.

"Committee" means the Rhode Island Building Code Standards Committee

"Nightclub" means an assembly occupancy in which people congregate in high densities for social entertainment such as drinking and dancing and characterized by some or all of the following unique characteristics:

1. Low lighting levels

2. Entertainment by a live band or recorded music generating above-normal sounds

3. Later-than average operating hours

4. Tables and seating (if any) arranged or positioned so as to create ill-definable aisles

5. Flexible fuel loading

6. A specific area designated for dancing

7. Service facilities for alcoholic beverages and food

8. Potential for consumption of legal or illegal drug use contributing to delayed reaction time to emergency events

9. High occupant load density

10. Movable furnishings

The Building Official shall have the authority to determine whether a proposed use is deemed a nightclub or a restaurant (see also section 903.2.1.2).

Delete IBC section 305.2 Day Care and substitute the following:

305.2 Day Care.

The use of a building or structure, or portion thereof, for educational, supervision or personal care services for more than eight children older than 2-1/2 years of age, shall be classified as a Group E occupancy.

305.2.2 Eight or fewer children. A facility having eight or fewer children receiving such day care shall be classified as part of the primary occupancy.

305.2.3 Eight or fewer children in a dwelling unit. A facility such as the above within a dwelling unit and having eight or fewer children receiving such day care shall be classified as a Group R-3 occupancy or shall comply with the International Residential Code.

Delete IBC sections 308.2 Group I-1 and substitute the following:

308.3 Group I-1.

This occupancy shall include buildings, structures, or parts thereof housing more than sixteen persons, on a 24-hours basis, who because of age, mental disability or other reasons, live in a supervised residential environment that provides personal care services. The occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation without physical assistance from staff. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Residential board and custodial care facilities

2. Assisted living facilities

3. Halfway houses

4. Group homes

5. Congregate care facilities

6. Social rehabilitation facilities

7. Alcohol and drug centers

8. Convalescent facilities

A facility such as the above with eight or fewer persons shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2. A facility such as above, housing at least nine and not more than 16 persons, shall be classified as Group R-4.

308.3.1 Eight or fewer persons receiving care. A facility such as the above with eight or fewer persons receiving such care shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the International Residential Code provided an automatic sprinkler system is installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 or with Section P2904 of the International Residential Code.

308.3.2 Eight to sixteen persons receiving care. A facility such as above, housing not fewer than eight and not more than 16 persons receiving such care, shall be classified as Group R-4.

Delete IBC section 308.3 Group I-2 and substitute the following:

308.4 Group I-2.

This occupancy shall include buildings and structures used for medical, surgical, psychiatric, nursing or custodial care on a 24-hour basis of more than eight persons who are not capable of self-preservation. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Child Care Facilities

2. Hospitals

3. Nursing homes (both intermediate-care facilities and skilled nursing facilities)

4. Mental hospitals

5. Detoxification facilities

A facility such as the above with six to eight persons shall be classified as a Use Group R-4.

A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2.

308.4.1 Eight or fewer persons receiving care. A facility such as the above with eight or fewer persons receiving such care shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the International Residential Code provided an automatic sprinkler system is installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 or with Section P2904 of the International Residential Code.

Delete IBC 308.4.2 Child Care Facility and substitute the following.

308.4.2 Child Care Facility

Facility that provides care on a 24-hour basis to more than eight children 2 ½ years of age or less.

Detoxification Facilities

Facilities that serve patients who are provided treatment for substance abuse on a 24-hour basis and who are incapable of self-preservation or who are harmful to themselves or others.

Hospitals and Mental Hospitals

Buildings or portions thereof used on a 24-hour basis for the medical, psychiatric, obstetrical or surgical treatment of inpatients who are incapable of self-preservation.

Nursing Homes

Nursing homes are long-term care facilities on a 24-hour basis, including both intermediate care facilities and skilled nursing facilities, serving more than five persons and any of the persons are incapable of self-preservation.

Delete IBC 308.5 I-4 Day Care Facilities and substitute the following:

308.6 Group I-4, Day Care Facilities.

This group shall include buildings and structures occupied by persons of any age who receive custodial care for less than 24 hours by individuals other than parents or guardians, relatives by blood marriage or adoption and in a place other than the home of the person cared for. A facility such as the above with eight or fewer persons shall be classified as a Group R-3 or shall comply with International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2. Places of worship during religious functions are not included.

Delete IBC 308.5.2 Child Care Facility and substitute the following:

308.6.1 Child Day Care Facility

A facility that provides supervision and personal care on less than a 24-hour basis for more than eight children 2-1/2 years of age or less shall be classified as Group I-4.

Exception: A child day care facility that provides care for more than eight but no more than 100 children 2-1/2 years or less of age, when the rooms where such children are cared for are located on the level of exit discharge and each of these child care rooms has an exit door directly to the exterior, shall be classified as Group E.

308.6.3 Classification as Group E. A child day care facility that provides care for more than eight but no more than 100 children 2½ years or less of age, where the rooms in which the children are cared for are located on a level of exit discharge serving such rooms and each of these child care rooms has an exit door directly to the exterior, shall be classified as Group E.

308.6.4 Eight or fewer persons receiving care. A facility having eight or fewer persons receiving custodial care shall be classified as part of the primary occupancy.

308.6.5 Eight or fewer persons receiving care in a dwelling unit. A facility such as the above within a dwelling unit and having eight or fewer persons receiving custodial care shall be classified as a Group R-3 occupancy or shall comply with the International Residential Code.

Delete IBC 310.1 Residential Group R-3 and R-4 and substitute the following:

R-3 Residential occupancies where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature and not classified as R-1, R-2, R-4 or I and where buildings do not contain more than two dwelling units as applicable in Section 101.2, or adult and child care facilities that provide accommodations for eight or fewer persons of any age for less than 24 hours. Adult and child care facilities that are within a single-family home are permitted to comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2.

R-4 Residential occupancies shall include buildings arranged for occupancy as residential care/assisted living facilities including more than eight but not more than 16 occupants, excluding staff.

Group R-4 occupancies shall meet the requirements for construction as defined for Group R-3 except as otherwise provided for in this code or shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2.

Group R-4 occupancies shall meet the requirements for construction as defined for Group R-3 except as otherwise provided for in this code or shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2.

Delete IBC 310.2 Definition of Residential Care/Assisted Living Facilities and substitute the following:

RESIDENTIAL CARE/ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES.

A building or part thereof housing a maximum of sixteen persons, on a 24-hour basis, who because of age, mental disability or other reasons live in a supervised residential environment which provides personal care services. The occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation without physical assistance from staff. This classification shall include, but not be limited to, the following: residential board and care facilities, assisted living facilities, halfway houses, group homes, congregate care facilities, social rehabilitation facilities, alcohol and drug abuse centers and convalescent facilities. Residential care/assisted living facilities housing more than sixteen persons shall be classified as a Group I-1.

Add the following sections to Section 401 Scope:

401.2 Fire Alarm Systems.

The requirements herein prescribed for the design, operation and installation of fire alarm systems, detection devices, suppression systems, communications systems, etc. shall be construed as supplemental to any applicable provisions of Rhode Island State Fire Safety Code.

401.3 Fire Prevention Code.

The provisions of the International Fire Code 2012 Edition shall apply when this code directly references a section or requirement. These cross-references are not intended to impose any enforcement requirements on state and local fire officials, and any conflicts with the State Fire Safety Codes shall be resolved in favor of the stricter standard, and that standard shall be enforced by the appropriate designated authority having jurisdiction.

403.6.1 Fire service access elevator. In buildings with an occupied floor more than 120 feet (36 576mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, a minimum of one fire service access elevator shall be provided in accordance with Section 3007

Add the following new sections:

SECTION 425 MANUFACTURED HOMES

425.1 Manufactured Homes.

Manufactured homes are constructed in accordance with the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development Part 3280 Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards. Refer to Appendix E of SBC2-2013 the Rhode Island One and Two Family Dwelling Code for specific provisions regarding permitting, foundation systems, additions, site utility connections and foundation and anchorage details.

SECTION 426 MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

422.1 Modular Construction.

Buildings and structures partially or completely constructed off-site shall be constructed in conformance with this code or SBC-2-2013 the Rhode Island Residential One and Two Family Code as appropriate for the use and occupancy. Manufacturers shall be registered with the Interstate Industrialized Building Commission (IIBC) and submit for approvals and permits in accordance with R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.4 and IIBC Compact regulations.

Revise section 716.5.3 as follows:

717.5.3 Shaft Enclosures:

Shaft enclosures in Use Group I and in High Rise structures are permitted to be penetrated by ducts and air transfer openings and shall be protected with approved fire conditions and smoke dampers installed in accordance with their listing. All other use groups shaft enclosure penetrations shall be protected with approved fire dampers installed in accordance with their listing.

Retain exceptions 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 and delete exceptions 2, 2.1, 2.2 and 3.

Add the following section to Section 901 General.

901.9 Other Codes.

Provisions governing where fire protection systems are required are also contained in the Rhode Island Fire Safety Code. The most restrictive provision of each code shall apply.

Delete IBC 903.2.1.2 Group A-2 and substitute the following:

903.2.1.2 Group A-2.

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-2 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:

1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5m²)

2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.

3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge.

4. Nightclubs with an occupancy load in a single fire area of more than 150 occupants (see also § 1.4 of this Part).

Delete IBC 903.2.3 Group E and substitute the following:

[F] 903.2.3 Group E.

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E occupancies as follows:

1. Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 20,000 square feet (1115 m²) in area.

2. Throughout every portion of educational buildings below the lowest level of exit discharge serving that portion of the building.

Exception: An automatic sprinkler system is not required in any area below the lowest level of exit discharge serving that area where every classroom throughout the building has at least one exterior exit door at ground level.

Section 903.3.1.1.1 Exempt Locations 1-4. Add the following paragraph five (5)

5. In passenger elevator shafts, pits and mechanical rooms. If provided, the installation shall meet all requirements of this code, NFPA 13, the Rhode Island Fire Safety Code and the Rhode Island Elevator Code.

Delete section 906 in its entirety and substitute the following:

Section 906 Portable Fire Extinguishers

906.1 General.

Portable Fire Extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with the Rhode Island Uniform Fire Code.

Delete section 907 in its entirety and substitute the following:

Section 907 FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS

907.1 General.

FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS shall be provided in accordance with the Rhode Island Uniform Fire Code.

Add the following definition to IBC Section 1102.1.

CHILDREN:

Students in classes ranging from pre-kindergarten to 6th grade. All other students are considered adults for the purposes of this Chapter.

Add the following Section 1111 Children’s’ Features

Section 1111.0 Children’s Features

1111.1 Children’s Water Closets:

Where provided, at least one shall comply with the following:

1. Clear floor space: Clear floor space for water closets shall comply with ICC/ANSI A117.1-2003-604.3.1. Clear floor space shall be permitted to be arranged to allow either a left-handed or right-handed approach.

2. Location: The centerline of the water closet shall be located 11 inches (11” = 279 mm) from the nearest side wall for pre-kindergarten; 11 to 15 inches (11” to 15” = 279 mm to 381mm) for kindergarten to the third grade and 15 to 18 inches (15” to 18” = 381mm to 457mm) for fourth grade to sixth grade. The water closet shall also be located 42 inches (42” = 1067mm) from the centerline of the water closet to the opposite wall or closest edge of next fixture.

3. Height: Water closets shall be set at a height measured from the floor to the top of the seat as follows:

4. Flush Controls: Controls for flush valves on water closets used by children shall be mounted on the wide side of water closet within 20 to 30 inches (20” to 30” = 508mm to 762mm) above the floor.

5. Toilet paper dispensers: Toilet paper dispensers used by children shall be centered above finished floor, as follows:

1111.2 Children’s Grab Bars

1111.2.1

The water closet shall have two grab bars, 42 inches (42” = 1067mm) long, one mounted on the wall in back of the water closet and one on the side wall closest to the water closet and located no more than six inches (6” = 152mm) from the interior corner where a tank prevents location of the rear grab bar, a bar may be installed three inches (3” = 76mm) above the tank. Where a flushometer prevents the location of a 42 inch (42” = 1067mm) rear grab bar, one grab bar, 36 inches (36” = 914mm) shall be installed to the side of the flushometer, located three inches (3” = 76mm) from the closest edge of the flushometer.

1111.2.2 Height:

A grab bar shall be mounted from the floor to the top of the grab bar as follows:

1111.2.3 Thickness:

the outside diameter of grab bars shall be as follows:

1111.3 Children’s Sink

Where provided at least one sink including vanities shall comply with the following:

1111.3.1 Clear floor space:

A clear floor space complying with ICC/ANSI A117.1-2003-606.2 be provided in front of a sink to allow a forward approach. The clear floor space shall be on an accessible route and shall extend no more than a maximum of 19 inches (19” = 483 mm) underneath the sink.

1111.3.2 Height:

Sinks shall be mounted with the rim no higher than 30 inches (30” = 762mm) above the finish floor. A clearance of at least 25 inches (25” = 635mm) above the finish floor to the bottom of the apron shall be provided. Knee and toe clearance shall be at least 30 inches (30” = 762mm) wide and 19 (19” = 483mm) deep.

1111.3.3 Piping:

Sink traps and drains shall be located as close to rear walls as possible. Hot water and drainpipes exposed under sinks shall be recessed, insulated, or guarded. There shall be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under sinks.

1111.3.4 Faucets:

Faucets shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. Lever-operated push-type, touch-type, or electronically controlled mechanisms are acceptable designs. If self-closing valves are used, the faucet shall remain open for at least ten seconds.

1111.4 Children’s Urinals

1111.4.1 Urinals:

Where one or more urinal is provided, at least one urinal shall be accessible.

111.4.2 Height:

The accessible urinal shall be stall-type or wall-hung with an elongated rim at a maximum of 15 inches (15” = 381mm) above the finish floor.

1111.4.3 Flush Controls:

Flush controls shall be a hand operated or automatic, and shall be mounted no more than 30 inches (30” = 762mm) above the flush floor.

1111.5 Children’s Mirror.

The top of any shelf and or bottom of any mirror which is provided above a sink shall be set with the bottom edge of the reflecting surface no higher than 31 inches (31” = 787mm) above the finish floor.

Children’s Dispensers:

Towel dispensers, drying devices, or other types of devices and dispensers shall have at least one of each device mounted within the zone of reach, and at least one of each device shall be located within reach of a person using the accessible sink.

1111.7 Children’s Controls and Receptacles.

If controls, receptacles, or other equipment are provided, then at least one of each shall be mounted no higher than 36 inches (36” = 914mm) above the floor to the centerline of the operable portion of the control.

Delete in its entirety and substitute the following:

1301.1 Scope.

This chapter governs the design and constructions of buildings for energy efficiency.

1301. Criteria.

Buildings shall be designed in accordance with the Rhode Island Energy Code SBC 8-2013.

Add the following new sub-section to Section 1405.1 General:

1405.1.1 Re-siding Exterior Walls.

Materials and methods of application used for re-siding or replacing an existing wall covering shall comply with the requirements of this section. New Exterior side wall covering shall not be installed without first removing existing wall coverings when any of the following conditions occur:

1. When the existing wall or wall covering is water-soaked or has deteriorated to the point that the existing wall or wall covering is not acceptable as a base for additional covering.

2. When the existing wall has three (3) or more applications of any wall covering. Exception: The total number of wall coverings shall not be limited when any of the existing wall coverings consists of asbestos cement board or asbestos cement shingles or any protective encapsulating or protective siding/layer immediately over the asbestos material.

3. Asbestos cement board or asbestos cement shingles and any protective encapsulating layer thereupon shall not be required to be removed unless the existing wall is unacceptable for use as a base for additional layers of wall covering.

4. Any disturbance, repair or removal of existing asbestos cement board or asbestos cement shingles shall be in accordance with all State and Federal regulations.

Delete IBC Section 1406.3 exceptions 3 and 4 and substitute as follows:

1406.3 Balconies and similar projections.

Balconies and similar projections of combustible construction, other than fire-retardant-treated wood, shall afford the fire-resistance rating required by Table 601 for floor construction or shall be of Type IV construction as described in Section 602.4, and the aggregate length shall not exceed 50 percent of the building perimeter on each floor.

Exceptions:

1. On buildings of Types I and II construction, three stories or less in height, fire-retardant-treated wood shall be permitted for balconies, porches, decks, and exterior stairways not used as required exits.

2. Untreated wood is permitted for pickets and rails, or similar guardrail devices that are limited to 42 inches (1067 mm) in height.

3. Construction Types 3A and 5A are not required to meet the provisions of this section.

4. If the balcony is subject to deterioration as specified in section 2304.11.5, the provisions of 2304.11.2 shall prevail in lieu of this section’s fire resistance requirements for Types 3, 4 and 5 constructions.

Delete IBC section 1507.2.7 attachment and substitute the following:

1507.2.7 Attachment.

Asphalt strip shingles shall have a minimum of six fasteners per shingle strip.

Exceptions:

1. Where the roof slope exceeds 20 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (20:12), special fastening details may be required by the manufacturer.

2. Fastening systems tested by the manufacturer to 110 MPH shall be permitted to be installed in any wind zone.

Delete section 1608.1 General and substitute the following:

1608.1 General.

Design snow loads shall be determined in accordance with Section 7 of ASCE 7 using the ground snow load values determined by Table 1608.1, but the minimum flat roof snow load shall be not less than that determined by Table 1608.1. The design roof load shall not be less than that determined by Section 1607.

Delete section 1608.2 Ground Snow Load.

Add the following new section to IBC Section 1608 Snow Loads.

1608.4 Structural Loads.

When a new building is to be constructed or an existing building extended to a greater height than an existing adjoining building, a determination of structural integrity of the roof of the adjoining building s hall be made regarding the snow loads in accordance with Section 1608.0 SNOW LOADS. The person intending to cause the construction or building height extension shall deliver written notice of intent to the owner of the potentially affected building. The notice shall request license to enter the potentially affected building to inspect and determine the existing building's capacity to sustain additional imposed snow drift load. The person causing such construction shall be liable and shall at their own expense preserve, protect and, if necessary, reconstruct those portions of the adjacent building affected by this construction. If the owner of the adjacent building refuses to allow inspection, protection or reconstruction as may be required, the person causing such new construction or building height extension shall notify, in writing, both the Building Official and the owner of the adjacent property. Such notification shall identify that the responsibility of providing inspection, protection or reconstruction to the adjacent building has become the exclusive responsibility of the owner of the adjacent property.

Revise section 1609.1.2 Protection of Openings as follows:

1609.1.2 Protection of Openings.

In Rhode Island Wind Zone 3, glazing …. (remainder of section unchanged).

Delete section 1609.3 Basic Wind Speed and substitute the following:

1609.3 Basic Wind Speed.

The basic wind speed, in mph, shall be determined by Rhode Island Wind Speed Map Figure 1609 and Table 1608.1).

Delete all IBC Figures 1609 and substitute Rhode Island Wind Speed Map Figure 1609 and Figure 1609 (A).

Delete Section 1613.5.1 and substitute the following:

1613.3.1 Acceleration parameters.

The parameters S_S and S₁ for each Rhode Island community are given in Table 1608.1.

1801.3 Frost protection.

Except where otherwise protected from frost, foundation walls, piers and other permanent supports of buildings and structures shall be protected by one or more of the following methods:

1. See Rhode Island Frost Depth values in Table 1608.1. and Figure 1608.1

2. Construction in accordance with ASCE 32; 05

3. Erecting on solid rock

Exception: Free-standing buildings meeting all of the following conditions shall not be required to be protected:

1. Classified in Occupancy Category I, in accordance with Section 1604.5;

2. Area of 600 Square feet (56 M²) or less for light-frame construction or 400 square feet (37 m²) or less for other than light-frame construction; and

3. Eave height of 10 feet (3048 mm) or less

Footings shall not bear on frozen soil unless such frozen condition is of a permanent character.

Delete IBC Section 2106.1 and substitute the following:

2106.1 Seismic design requirements for masonry.

Masonry structures and components shall comply with the requirements in Section 1.14.2.2 of ACI 530/ASCE 5/TMS 402 and Section 1.14.3, 1.14.4, 1.14.5, 1.14.6 or of ACI 530/ASCE 5/TMS 402 depending on the structure’s seismic design category as determined in Section 1616.3. In addition, the following requirements shall be met.

Add the following exception to Section 2303.1.1 Lumber

Exception:

Native Lumber used in accordance with Rhode Island amendment Section 2309.

Add the following new section 2309 Native Lumber:

2309 Native Lumber.

2309.1 Scope:

The provisions of this section shall govern the use of Native Lumber in accordance with R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3-109.0 of the State Building Code.

Native Lumber is unmarked structural lumber from wood processed in the State of Rhode Island by a mill registered in accordance with provisions of this code.

Such lumber which is not grade marked or certified by a recognized grading organization designated under Section 2303.1.1 shall be classified as an ordinary material and is not required to meet the test requirement of section 1710.2 and shall be permitted for use as follows.

2309.2 Identification and Use:

1. The producing mills shall sell or provide the lumber directly to the ultimate consumer or his contract builder for use in an approved structure;

2. The providing mill shall certify in writing to the consumer or builder on a form to be provided by the State Building Code Standards Committee that the quality and safe working stresses of such lumber are equal to or exceed No. 2 grade in accordance with grading practices established by an approved lumber grading or approved testing agency.

Exception: Load bearing walls shall be of stud grade minimum.

This certification shall be filed with the local building official having jurisdiction as part of the building permit application;

3. Native Lumber shall be limited to the following uses:

a. One and two-family dwellings not exceeding three stories in height, or:

b. General building construction types 3B, 4 or 5B not exceeding ten thousand square feet of cumulative floor area or 35 feet in height, but not to exceed 2 stories, or:

c. Those low stress buildings not intended for human habitation such as barns, sheds, agricultural, detached garages, outbuildings and other accessory structures; or

d. Non-structural and non-fire rated applications in any use group of Type 3, 4 or 5 construction.

Uses not permitted: Native lumber shall not be used in engineered plate-truss systems unless such lumber is graded in accordance with Section 2303.1.1.

2309.3 Native Softwoods and Hardwoods

Native hardwood or softwood lumber may be used in post and beam timber type construction per section 602.4. Such uses as beam, girders, headers, and column supports will require engineering evaluation for the allowable design values and duration of loading factors for all buildings other than One & Two-Family Dwellings.

Native lumber located near or in contact with the ground shall be naturally durable or pressure-treated in accordance with the provisions of section 2304.11.

2309.4 Sizing Criteria for Native Softwood Lumber

1. Sizing criteria: For lumber sized in accordance with the AF&PA NDS-01, conventional spantables in this code shall be permitted to be used for establishing span and spacing characteristics for all structural members.

2. Stress increases: Lumber which is sized in excess of the dimensions established by the AF&PA NDS-01 for the given nominal size referenced shall be allowed to have increased loads providing structural calculations are submitted verifying such increases. See Table 2309.

2309.5 Moisture Content

The moisture content for structural framing shall be 19% or less unless the producer indicates that the lumber is surfaced green.

2309.6 Post and Beam Type Structures

Native hardwood and softwood lumber are permitted in post and beam timber-type structures. Design drawings and calculation shall be by a Rhode Island registered architect or engineer and submitted to the building official for approval.

2309.7 Responsibilities

The building official shall indicate the use of native lumber on the building permit application under the heading “Description of work to be performed” and also the name of the mill providing the native lumber.

The building official shall have the right to reject any lumber of questionable quality based on visual observation.

1.17.1 GENERAL

Delete all references to IEC and substitute Rhode Island Electrical Code SBC-5-2011.

Delete all reference to any other International Code (IBC, IRC, IMC, etc.) and refer to appropriate SBC regulations. (See Amendment 2701.6).

The following revisions are to Chapter 27 of SBC-1-2013:

Delete existing Chapter 27 in its entirety and substitute the following:

2701.1 Scope.

This chapter governs the electrical components, equipment and systems used in buildings and structures covered by this code. Electrical components, equipment and systems shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions of SBC-5-2011.

Permits.

Electrical wiring including elevators and other conveyances as regulated by the Department of Labor and Training, or data, telecommunications, video and sound installations, shall not be installed in a building or structure, nor shall alteration of an existing electrical wiring system be made until a permit has been issued therefore as required in R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3-113.3.1.

Exception: Work not covered in SBC-5-2011 section 90.2(b) 1-5 inclusive. As used in section 4 & 5 a “utility” is a company or business regulated and/or licensed by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission. Subcontractors employed by a utility are not exempt from permit requirements unless the proposed work is being performed in the public right-of-way or within public utility easements. It shall be unlawful to use or allow the use of, or to supply current for, an electrical system in a building or structure, or to allow the use of, or to supply current for data, telecommunications, video or audio installations unless the required permits have been issued and approved by the authority having jurisdiction.

2701.3 Certification.

Except for use group R (residential use), construction documents shall bear the seal of a Registered Professional Engineer who shall provide the services as required by R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3-128.2.2, except as modified by the authority enforcing this Code, or by the Board for Registration of Professional Engineers.

2701.4 Re-inspection.

An electrical installation from which an electrical service has been discontinued for a period of thirty (30) days or more shall not have service restored until the system has been re-inspected and a new certificate of inspection issued.

Exception: Re-inspection of dwelling units shall only be required if the electrical service has been discontinued for a period of one year.

2701.5 Reference

The following section is taken directly from current R.I. Gen. Laws (R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-66.9-1) for references purposes only:

2701.5 Emergency generators for Housing for the Elderly. All housing for the elderly complexes, as defined in R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-66.1-2 which are serviced by one or more elevators and/or electrically powered chair lifts, and which include more than one hundred fifty (150) residential living units in a single building shall be equipped with emergency generators which shall provide sufficient power to provide emergency lighting to all common areas and a community room and power to operate the elevators and a refrigerator in a common area. Generator systems shall be in accordance with the national electric code and R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-28.24-9.

2701.6 References.

Where this code references other ICC codes, use the appropriate regulation as adopted by the State of Rhode Island and SBC-5-2011 for the IEC. References to the International Fire Code (IFC) and its requirements are deleted, and refer to the R.I. State Fire Safety Code for requirements and enforcement by that authority having jurisdiction.

2701.7 Other Codes.

The Rhode Island Uniform Fire Safety Code contains provisions for specific wiring methods for fire alarms, signaling systems, and other building fixtures such as exit signage, emergency lighting, and emergency and standby power systems among others. Refer to the latest editions of that code for the latest provisions.

SECTION 2702: EMERGENCY AND STANDBY POWER SYSTEMS

2702.1 Installation. Emergency and standby power systems shall be installed in accordance with the SBC-5-2011, NFPA 110 and NFPA 111.

2702.2 Where required. Emergency and standby power systems shall be provided where required by Sections 2702.2.1 through 2702.2.19.

2702.2.1 Group A Occupancies.

Emergency power shall be provided for voice communication systems in Group A occupancies in accordance with Section 907.2.1.2.

2702.2.2 Smoke control systems. Standby power shall be provided for smoke control systems in accordance with Section 909.11.

2702.2.3 Exit signs. Emergency power shall be provided for exit signs in accordance with Section 1003.2.10.5.

2702.2.4 Means of egress illumination. Emergency power shall be provided for means of egress illumination in accordance with Section 1003.2.11.2.

2702.2.5 Accessible means of egress elevators. Standby power shall be provided for elevators that are part of an accessible means of egress in accordance with Section 1003.2.13.3.

2702.2.6 Horizontal sliding doors. Standby power shall be provided for horizontal sliding doors in accordance with Section 1003.3.1.3.3.

2702.2.7 Semiconductor fabrication facilities. Emergency power shall be provided for semiconductor fabrication facilities in accordance with Section 415.9.10.

2702.2.8 Membrane structures. Standby power shall be provided for auxiliary inflation systems in accordance with Section 3102.8.2. Emergency power shall be provided for exit signs in temporary tents and membrane structures in accordance with the International Fire Code.

2702.2.9 Hazardous materials. Emergency or standby power shall be provided in occupancies with hazardous materials in accordance with Section 414.5.4.

2702.2.10 Highly toxic and toxic materials. Emergency power shall be provided for occupancies with highly toxic to toxic materials in accordance with the International Fire Code and Rhode Island State Fire Safety Codes.

2702.2.11 Organic peroxides. Standby power shall be provided for occupancies with organic peroxides in accordance with the International Fire Code and Rhode Island State Fire Safety Codes.

2702.2.12 Pyrophoric materials. Emergency power shall be provided for occupancies with pyrophoric materials in accordance with the International Fire Code and Rhode Island State Fire Safety Codes.

2702.2.13 Covered mall buildings. Covered mall buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m²) shall be provided with standby power systems which are capable of operating the emergency voice/alarm communication.

2702.2.14 High rise buildings. Emergency and standby power shall be provided in high rise buildings in accordance with Chapter 27 and for the items listed below:

1. Fire command center.

2. Fire pumps.

3. Emergency voice/alarm communication systems.

4. Lighting for mechanical equipment rooms.

5. Elevators.

2702.2.15 Underground buildings. Emergency and standby power shall be provided in underground buildings in accordance with Sections 405.9 and 405.10.

2702.2.16 Group I-3 occupancies. Emergency power shall be provided for doors in Group I-3 occupancies in accordance with Section 408.4.2.

2702.2.17 Airport traffic control towers. Standby power shall be provided in airport traffic control towers in accordance with Section 412.1.5.

2702.2.18 Elevators. Standby power for elevators shall be provided as set forth in Section 3003.1.

2702.2.19 Smoke proof enclosures. Standby power shall be provided for smoke proof enclosures as required by Section 909.20.

2702.3 Maintenance. Emergency and standby power systems shall be maintained and tested in accordance with the Rhode Island State Fire Safety Codes.

Delete IBC section 2801.1 Scope and substitute the following:

2801.1 Scope.

Mechanical appliances, equipment and systems shall be constructed, installed and maintained in accordance with SBC-4-2013 the Rhode Island Mechanical Code and SBC-19-2013 the Rhode Island Fuel Gas Code. Masonry chimneys, fireplaces and barbecues shall comply with the Rhode Island Mechanical Code and Chapter 21 of this code.

Delete IBC section 2901. Scope and substitute the following:

2901.1 Scope.

The provisions of this chapter and SBC-3-2013 the Rhode Island Plumbing Code shall govern the erection, installation, repairs, relocation, replacement, addition to, use or maintenance or plumbing equipment and systems.

Delete IBC 3001.1 Scope and substitute the following:

3001.1 SCOPE

Except as may otherwise be provided by statute, the provisions of this chapter shall control the design, construction and installation of all special hoisting and conveying equipment hereafter installed, relocated or altered in all buildings or structures. The design, construction, installation, maintenance, relocation and operation of all elevators, dumbwaiters, moving stairways, moving walks, and certain elevating devices used to handle materials only, shall be subject to the rules and regulations adopted and enforced by the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Division of Occupational Safety, Elevator Unit. Portable elevating devices not covered by this chapter or by the Department of Labor, shall be constructed, operated and maintained in compliance with accepted engineering practice.

Delete IBC 3001.2 Referenced standards and substitute the following:

3001.1.1 PERMITS:

Permits for the installation of elevators, dumb waiters, moving stairways, moving walks, and certain elevating devices used to transport materials and personnel shall be issued only by the Department of Labor and Training, Division of Occupational Safety, Elevator Unit. Permits for all other devices shall be issued by the building official.

Delete section 3102.1 and substitute the following:

3102.1 General

The provisions of this section shall apply to air-supported, air-inflated, membrane-covered cable and membrane-covered frame structures, collectively known as membrane structures, erected for a period of 180 days or longer. Those erected for a shorter period of time shall comply with the Rhode Island Uniform Fire Code. Those erected for 180 Days or longer are also regulated by existing code section 3103 Temporary Structures; a Rhode Island amendment to the International model code.

Membrane structures covering water storage facilities, water clarifiers, water treatment plants, sewage treatment plants, greenhouses and similar facilities not used for human occupancy are required to meet only the requirements of Sections 3102.3.1 and 3102.7. Membrane structures erected on a building, balcony, deck or other structures for any period of time shall comply with this section.

Delete section 3102.2 Definitions of Membrane – Covered Cable Structures and Membrane – Covered Frame Structure and substitute the following

3102.2 Definitions.

“Membrane-Covered Cable Structure” means a non-pressurized structure in which a mast and cable system provides support and tension to the membrane weather barrier and the membrane imparts stability to the structure. Including but not limited to “TENTS”.

“Membrane-Covered Frame Structure” means a non-pressurized building wherein the structure is composed of a rigid framework to support a tensioned membrane which provides the weather barrier. Including but not limited to “TENTS”.

Delete IBC Section 3103 Temporary Structures in its entirety and substitute the following:

SECTION 3103.0 TEMPORARY STRUCTURES

3103.0 General:

Pursuant to a variance granted by the Board of Appeals under the provisions of Section the Building Official shall issue a permit for temporary construction as approved by the Board of Appeal. Such permits shall be limited as to time of service but such temporary construction shall not be permitted for more than one (1) year.

The building official shall be permitted to issue permits for temporary construction limited to buildings of less than four hundred (400) square feet and all construction trailers. Such permits shall be limited as to time of service but no such construction shall be permitted to remain in place for more than one (1) year or the time scheduled for the construction project.

3103.2 Special Approval

All temporary construction, when intended to be occupied by the owner, employee, or general public shall conform to structural strength, fire safety, means of egress, light, ventilation and sanitary requirements of the Code necessary to insure the public health, safety and general welfare.

3103.3 Termination of Approval

The building official is hereby authorized to terminate such special approval and to order demolition and/or removal of any such construction at his discretion.

Add the following new section to Chapter 31

SECTION 3112 FABRIC STRUCTURES

3112.1 Definition

Fabric Structures are structures utilizing wood, metal or plastic frames and covered with cloth, canvas or plastic material, excluding tents, agricultural and horticultural greenhouses, and furnishings such as umbrellas, awnings and canopies or portable shade canopies.

3112.2 Fabric Structures:

Fabric Structures: Fabric Structures shall be located in accordance with applicable local zoning code provisions. Permits shall be required for all fabric structures. Fabric structures less than 400 sq. ft. in area and installed for a period not exceeding 1 year shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s installation instructions. Fabric structures greater than 400 sq. ft. in area or intended to be in place for a period exceeding 12 months shall only be approved pending a satisfactory decision by the state or local Building Code Board of Appeals, unless full code compliance for permanent structures in all respects is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the local building official. The State Fire Marshal or his authorized representative shall determine whether the installation is subject to provisions of the State Fire Safety Code prior to issuance of the permit.

Exceptions:

1. Agricultural and horticultural greenhouses used primarily for growing.

2. Livestock shelters arts/crafts, flea markets, etc. of limited duration consisting of small booths and multiple vendors, and as may be properly licensed by the municipality.

3. Any structure less than 100 sq. ft.

4. Furnishings such as umbrellas awnings, etc.

Add the following new section to IBC Section 3304 Sitework:

Final Grading.

Lots shall be graded so that surface accumulation of water does not occur across adjoining property. Retaining walls, which may be necessary to prevent surface run-off into adjoining property, shall be constructed in accordance with this code and any applicable ordinances. Storm drainage systems necessary to divert flows from adjoining property shall be designed and installed in accordance with SBC-3 –2013 the Rhode Island State Plumbing Code.

Add the following new section to IBC Section 3307 Protection of Adjoining Property:

3307.2 Structural Loads.

See Section 1608.4.

Delete IBC Section 3407.1 Historic Buildings and substitute the following:

3409 Historic Buildings:

3409.1 Approval:

The provisions of this code relating to the construction, repair, alteration, enlargement, restoration and moving of buildings or structures shall not be mandatory for existing buildings or structures identified and classified by the state or local government authority as historic buildings, subject to the approval of the Board of Appeals, when such buildings are judged by the code official to be safe and in the interest of public health, safety and welfare regarding any proposed construction, alteration, repair, enlargement and relocation. All such approvals shall be based on the applicant's complete submission of professional architectural and engineering plans and specifications bearing the professional seal of the designer.

Delete IBC Section 3410.2 Applicability and substitute the following:

3410.2 Applicability

Existing buildings in which there is work involving additions, alterations or changes of occupancy shall be made to conform to the requirements of this section or the provisions of Sections 3403 through 3407. The provisions in Sections 3410.2.1 through 3410.2.5 shall apply to existing occupancies that will continue to be, or are proposed to be, in Groups A, B, E, F, M, R, S and U. These provisions shall not apply to buildings with occupancies in Group H or I.

To IBC Chapter 35 add the following General Statement:

The various State of Rhode Island departments and agencies have designated powers to adopt and enforce regulations impacting new and existing construction. Users of this code are advised to use all available resources to coordinate the design and approval process.

Delete Appendices A, B, D, J. & K

Retain Appendices C, E, G, H, I.

Appendix F is permitted to be enforced on a discretionary basis by the local building code official, when in his opinion, existing site and environmental conditions warrant additional protective measures specified herein.

FLOOD RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION

Add the following section to G105.1 General

G105.1.1 Notice.

Upon receipt of an application for a variance the Chairman of the Board of Appeals shall forward a copy of said application to the Rhode Island Emergency Management Office, Attention: Statewide Flood-Plain Coordinator.