2017 FBC - Residential, 6th edition
ADOPTS WITH AMENDMENTS:

International Residential Code 2015 (IRC 2015)

Chapter 1 Scope and Administration

Chapter 2 Definitions

Chapter 3 Building Planning

324 Solar Energy Systems
R301 Design Criteria
R302 Fire-Resistant Construction
R303 Light, Ventilation and Heating
R304 Minimum Room Areas
R305 Ceiling Height
R306 Sanitation
R307 Toilet, Bath and Shower Spaces
R308 Glazing
R309 Garages and Carports
R310 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings
R311 Means of Egress
R312 Guards and Window Fall Protection
R313 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems Reserved
R314 Smoke Alarms
R315 Carbon Monoxide Alarms
R316 Foam Plastic
R317 Protection of Wood and Wood-Based Products Against Decay
R318 Protection Against Termites
R319 Site Address
R320 Accessibility
R321 Elevators and Platform Lifts
R322 Flood-Resistant Construction
R323 Storm Shelters
R325 Mezzanines
R326 Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs
R327 Airport Noise

Chapter 4 Foundations

Chapter 5 Floors

Chapter 6 Wall Construction

Chapter 7 Wall Covering

Chapter 8 Roof-Ceiling Construction

Chapter 9 Roof Assemblies

Chapter 10 Chimneys and Fireplaces

Chapter 11 [RE] Energy Efficiency

Chapter 12 Mechanical Administration

Chapter 13 General Mechanical System Requirements

Chapter 14 Heating and Cooling Equipment and Appliances

Chapter 15 Exhaust Systems

Chapter 16 Duct Systems

Chapter 17 Combustion Air

Chapter 18 Chimneys and Vents

Chapter 19 Special Appliances, Equipment and Systems

Chapter 20 Boilers and Water Heaters

Chapter 21 Hydronic Piping

Chapter 22 Special Piping and Storage Systems

Chapter 23 Solar Thermal Energy Systems

Chapter 24 Fuel Gas

Chapter 25 Plumbing Administration

Chapter 26 General Plumbing Requirements

Chapter 27 Plumbing Fixtures

Chapter 28 Water Heaters

Chapter 29 Water Supply and Distribution

Chapter 30 Sanitary Drainage

Chapter 31 Vents

Chapter 32 Traps

Chapter 33 Storm Drainage

Chapter 34 General Requirements

Chapter 35 Electrical Definitions

Chapter 36 Services

Chapter 37 Branch Circuit and Feeder Requirements

Chapter 38 Wiring Methods

Chapter 39 Power and Lighting Distribution

Chapter 40 Devices and Luminaires

Chapter 41 Appliance Installation

Chapter 42 Swimming Pools [Electrical Provisions]

Chapter 43 Class 2 Remote-Control, Signaling and Power-Limited Circuits

Chapter 44 High-Velocity Hurricane Zones

Chapter 45 Private Swimming Pools

Chapter 46 Referenced Standards

Appendix A Sizing and Capacities of Gas Piping

Appendix B Sizing of Venting Systems Serving Appliances Equipped With Draft Hoods, Category I Appliances, and Appliances Listed for Use With Type B Vents

Appendix C Exit Terminals of Mechanical Draft and Direct-Vent Venting Systems

Appendix D Recommended Procedure for Safety Inspection of an Existing Appliance Installation

Appendix E Florida Standard for Mitigation of Radon in Existing Buildings Effective: June 1, 1994

Appendix F Florida Standard for Passive Radon-Resistant New Residential Building Construction

Appendix G Piping Standards for Various Applications

Appendix H Patio Covers

Appendix I Private Sewage Disposal

Appendix J Existing Buildings and Structures

Appendix K Sound Transmission

Appendix L Permit Fees

Appendix M Home Day Care—R-3 Occupancy

Appendix N Venting Methods

Appendix O Automatic Vehicular Gates

Appendix P Sizing of Water Piping System

Appendix Q Reserved

Appendix R Light Straw-Clay Construction

Appendix S Strawbale Construction

Appendix T Recommended Procedure for Worst-Case Testing of Atmospheric Venting Systems Under N1102.4 or N1105 Conditions ≤ 5ACH50

Appendix U Solar-Ready Provisions—Detached One- And Two-Family Dwellings, Multiple Single- Family Dwellings (Townhouses)

Heads up: There are no amended sections in this chapter.

Chapter 3 Building Planning

Section 324 Solar Energy Systems

R324.1 General

Solar energy systems shall comply with the provisions of this section.

R324.2 Solar Thermal Systems

Solar thermal systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Chapter 23 and the Florida Fire Prevention Code.

R324.3 Photovoltaic Systems

Photovoltaic systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections R324.3.1 through R324.6.1 and NFPA 70. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction.

R324.3.1 Equipment Listings

Photovoltaic panels and modules shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703.

R324.4 Rooftop-Mounted Photovoltaic Systems

ILLUSTRATION
Rooftopmounted photovoltaic panel systems installed on or above the roof covering shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R909.

R324.4.1 Roof Live Load

Roof structures that provide support for photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed for applicable roof live load. The design of roof structures need not include roof live load in the areas covered by photovoltaic panel systems. Portions of roof structures not covered by photovoltaic panels shall be designed for roof live load. Roof structures that provide support for photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed for live load, LR, for the load case where the photovoltaic panel system is not present.

R324.5 Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Systems

Building-integrated photovoltaic systems that serve as roof coverings shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R905.

R324.5.1 Photovoltaic Shingles

Photovoltaic shingles shall comply with Section R905.16.

R324.6 Ground-Mounted Photovoltaic Systems

Groundmounted photovoltaic systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R301.

R324.6.1 Fire Separation Distances

Ground-mounted photovoltaic systems shall be subject to the fire separation distance requirements determined by the local jurisdiction.

Section R301 Design Criteria

R301.1 Application

Buildings and structures, and parts thereof, shall be constructed to safely support all loads, including dead loads, live loads, roof loads, flood loads, snow loads, wind loads and seismic loads as prescribed by this code. The construction of buildings and structures in accordance with the provisions of this code shall result in a system that provides a complete load path that meets the requirements for the transfer of loads from their point of origin through the load-resisting elements to the foundation. Buildings and structures constructed as prescribed by this code are deemed to comply with the requirements of this section.
Exception: Buildings and structures located within the High Velocity Hurricane Zone shall comply with Sections R302 to R327, inclusive and the provisions of Chapter 44, Sections R301.2.5 and R406. In addition, buildings and structures located in flood hazard areas established in Table R301.2(1) shall comply with Sections R301.2.4, R301.2.5 and R322.

R301.1.1 Alternative Provisions

As an alternative to the requirements in Section R301.1, the following standards are permitted subject to the limitations of this code and the limitations therein. Where engineered design is used in conjunction with these standards, the design shall comply with the Florida Building Code, Building.
  1. AF&PA Wood Frame Construction Manual (WFCM).
  2. AISI Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Framing— Prescriptive Method for One- and Two-Family Dwellings (AISI S230).
  3. ICC Standard on the Design and Construction of Log Structures (ICC 400).

R301.1.2 Construction Systems

The requirements of this code are based on platform and balloon-frame construction for light-frame buildings. The requirements for concrete and masonry buildings are based on a balloon framing system. Other framing systems must have equivalent detailing to ensure force transfer, continuity and compatible deformations.

R301.1.3 Engineered Design

Where a building of otherwise conventional construction contains structural elements exceeding the limits of Section R301 or otherwise 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 Florida Building Code, Building is permitted for buildings and structures, and parts thereof, included in the scope of this code.

R301.2 Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria

Buildings shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of this code as limited by the provisions of this section. Additional criteria shall be set forth in Table R301.2(1).
Figure R301.2(4)A Ultimate Design Wind Speed. Reserved.
Figure R301.2(4)B Regions Where Wind Design is Required. Reserved.
TABLE R301.2(1)
CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA
GROUND
SNOW

LOAD
WIND DESIGNSEISMIC
DESIGN

CATEGORYf
SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROMWINTER
DESIGN

TEMPe
ICE BARRIER
UNDERLAYMENT

REQUIREDh
FLOOD
HAZARDSg
AIR
FREEZING

INDEXi
MEAN
ANNUAL

TEMPj
Speedd
(mph)
Topographic
effectsk
Special wind
regionl
Wind-borne
debris zonem
WeatheringaFrost line
depthb
Termitec
NASee Fig. R301.2(4)NANegligibleNAVery HeavyNANANA
For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
  1. Weathering may require a higher strength concrete or grade of masonry than necessary to satisfy the structural requirements of this code. The weathering column shall be filled in with the weathering index, "negligible," "moderate" or "severe" for concrete as determined from Figure R301.2(3). The grade of masonry units shall be determined from ASTM C34, C55, C62, C73, C90, C129, C145, C216 or C652.
  2. Reserved.
  3. Termite infestation per Figure R301.2(6) is "very heavy."
  4. Wind speed shall be from the basic wind speed map [Figure R301.2(4)]. Wind exposure category shall be determined on a site-specific basis in accordance with Section R301.2.1.4.
  5. The outdoor design dry-bulb temperature shall be selected from the columns of 971/2-percent values for winter from Appendix D of the Florida Building Code, Plumbing. Deviations from the Appendix D temperatures shall be permitted to reflect local climates or local weather experience as determined by the building official.
  6. Reserved.
  7. The applicable governing body shall, by local floodplain management ordinance, specify (a) the date of the jurisdiction's entry into the National Flood Insurance Program (date of adoption of the first code or ordinance for management of flood hazard areas), (b) the date(s) of the Flood Insurance Study and (c) the panel numbers and dates of the currently effective FIRMs and FBFMs or other flood hazard map adopted by the authority having jurisdiction, as amended.
  8. Reserved.
  9. Reserved.
  10. Reserved.
  11. Reserved.
  12. Reserved.
  13. Reserved.
TABLE R301.2(2)
COMPONENT AND CLADDING LOADS FOR A BUILDING WITH A MEAN ROOF HEIGHT OF 30 FEET LOCATED IN EXPOSURE B (ASD) (psf)a, b, c, d, e, f
ZONEEFFECTIVE
WIND AREA

(feet2)
ULTIMATE DESIGN WIND SPEED, VULT (mph)
110115120130140150160170180
Roof 0 to 7 degrees11010.0-13.010.0-14.010.0-15.010.0-18.010.0-21.09.9-24.011.2-27.012.6-31.014.2-35.0
12010.0-12.010.0-13.010.0-15.010.0-17.010.0-20.09.2-23.010.6-26.011.9-30.013.3-34.1
15010.0-12.010.0-13.010.0-14.010.0-17.010.0-19.08.5-22.010.0-26.010.8-29.012.2-32.9
110010.0-11.010.0-13.010.0-14.010.0-16.010.0-19.07.8-22.010.0-25.010.0-28.011.3-32.0
21010.0-21.010.0-23.010.0-26.010.0-30.010.0-35.09.9-40.011.2-46.012.6-52.014.2-58.7
22010.0-19.010.0-21.010.0-23.010.0-27.010.0-31.09.2-36.010.6-41.011.9-46.013.3-52.4
25010.0-16.010.0-18.010.0-19.010.0-23.010.0-26.08.5-30.010.0-34.010.8-39.012.2-44.1
210010.0-14.010.0-15.010.0-16.010.0-19.010.0-22.07.8-26.010.0-30.010.0-33.011.3-37.9
31010.0-33.010.0-36.010.0-39.010.0-46.010.0-53.09.9-61.011.2-69.012.6-78.014.2-88.3
32010.0-27.010.0-29.010.0-32.010.0-38.010.0-44.09.2-50.010.6-57.011.9-65.013.3-73.1
35010.0-19.010.0-21.010.0-23.010.0-27.010.0-32.08.5-36.010.0-41.010.8-47.012.2-53.1
310010.0-14.010.0-15.010.0-16.010.0-19.010.0-22.07.8-26.010.0-30.010.0-33.011.3-37.9
Roof > 7 to 27 degrees11010.0-11.010.0-13.010.0-14.010.5-16.012.2-19.014.0-22.015.9-25.017.9-28.020.2-32.0
12010.0-11.010.0-12.010.0-13.010.0-16.011.1-18.012.8-21.014.5-24.016.4-27.018.4-31.1
15010.0-11.010.0-12.010.0-13.010.0-15.010.0-18.011.1-20.012.7-23.014.3-26.016.0-29.9
110010.0-10.010.0-11.010.0-12.010.0-15.010.0-17.09.9-20.011.2-22.012.6-25.014.2-29.0
21010.0-20.010.0-22.010.0-24.010.5-29.012.2-33.014.0-38.015.9-44.017.9-49.020.2-55.8
22010.0-19.010.0-20.010.0-22.010.0-26.011.1-31.012.8-35.014.5-40.016.4-45.018.4-51.2
25010.0-16.010.0-18.010.0-20.010.0-23.010.0-27.011.1-31.012.7-35.014.3-40.016.0-45.4
210010.0-15.010.0-16.010.0-18.010.0-21.010.0-24.09.9-28.011.2-32.012.6-36.014.2-40.9
31010.0-30.010.0-33.010.0-36.010.5-43.012.2-49.014.0-57.015.9-65.017.9-73.020.2-82.4
32010.0-28.010.0-31.010.0-34.010.0-40.011.1-46.012.8-53.014.5-60.016.4-68.018.4-77.0
35010.0-26.010.0-28.010.0-31.010.0-36.010.0-42.011.1-48.012.7-55.014.3-62.016.0-69.9
310010.0-24.010.0-26.010.0-28.010.0-33.010.0-39.09.9-44.011.2-51.012.6-57.014.2-64.6
Roof > 27 to 45 degrees11011.9-13.013.1-14.014.2-15.016.7-18.019.4-21.022.2-24.025.3-27.028.5-31.032.0-35.0
12011.6-12.012.7-13.013.8-14.016.2-17.018.8-20.021.6-23.024.6-26.027.7-29.031.1-33.2
15011.2-11.012.2-12.013.3-13.015.6-16.018.1-18.020.8-21.023.6-24.026.7-27.029.9-30.8
110010.9-10.011.9-11.012.9-12.015.1-15.017.6-17.020.2-20.022.9-22.025.9-25.029.0-29.0
21011.9-15.013.1-16.014.2-18.016.7-21.019.4-24.022.2-28.025.3-32.028.5-36.032.0-40.9
22011.6-14.012.7-16.013.8-17.016.2-20.018.8-23.021.6-27.024.6-30.027.7-34.031.1-39.1
25011.2-13.012.2-15.013.3-16.015.6-19.018.1-22.020.8-25.023.6-29.026.7-32.029.9-36.8
210010.9-13.011.9-14.012.9-15.015.1-18.017.6-21.020.2-24.022.9-27.025.9-31.029.0-35.0
31011.9-15.013.1-16.014.2-18.016.7-21.019.4-24.022.2-28.025.3-32.028.5-36.032.0-40.9
32011.6-14.012.7-16.013.8-17.016.2-20.018.8-23.021.6-27.024.6-30.027.7-34.031.1-39.1
35011.2-13.012.2-15.013.3-16.015.6-19.018.1-22.020.8-25.023.6-29.026.7-32.029.9-36.8
310010.9-13.011.9-14.012.9-15.015.1-18.017.6-21.020.2-24.022.9-27.025.9-31.029.0-35.0
Wall41013.1-14.014.3-15.015.5-16.018.2-19.021.2-22.024.3-26.027.7-30.031.2-33.035.0-37.9
42012.5-13.013.6-14.014.8-16.017.4-19.020.2-22.023.2-25.026.4-28.029.7-32.033.4-36.4
45011.7-12.012.8-14.013.9-15.016.3-17.019.0-20.021.7-23.024.7-27.027.9-30.031.3-34.3
410011.1-12.012.1-13.013.2-14.015.5-17.018.0-19.020.6-22.023.5-25.026.5-29.029.832.7
450010.0-10.010.6-11.011.6-12.013.6-15.015.8-17.018.1-20.020.6-22.023.2-25.026.1-29.0
51013.1-17.014.3-19.015.5-20.018.2-24.021.2-28.024.3-32.027.7-37.031.2-41.035.0-46.8
52012.5-16.013.6-17.014.8-19.017.4-22.020.2-26.023.2-30.026.4-34.029.7-39.033.4-43.7
55011.7-14.012.8-16.013.9-17.016.3-20.019.0-23.021.7-27.024.7-31.027.9-35.031.3-39.5
510011.1-13.012.1-14.013.2-16.015.5-19.018.0-22.020.6-25.023.5-28.026.5-32.029.8-36.4
550010.0-10.010.6-11.011.6-12.013.6-15.015.8-17.018.1-20.020.6-22.023.2-25.026.1-29.0
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
  1. The effective wind area shall be equal to the span length multiplied by an effective width. This width shall be permitted to be not less than one-third the span length. For cladding fasteners, the effective wind area shall not be greater than the area that is tributary to an individual fastener.
  2. For effective areas between those given, the load shall be interpolated or the load associated with the lower effective area shall be used.
  3. Table values shall be adjusted for height and exposure by multiplying by the adjustment coefficient in Table R301.2(3).
  4. See Figure R301.2(7) for location of zones.
  5. Plus and minus signs signify pressures acting toward and away from the building surfaces.
  6. Table values have been multiplied by 0.6 to convert component and cladding pressures to ASD.
TABLE R301.2(3)
HEIGHT AND EXPOSURE ADJUSTMENT COEFFICIENTS FOR TABLE R301.2(2)
MEAN ROOF HEIGHTEXPOSURE
BCD
151.001.211.47
201.001.291.55
251.001.351.61
301.001.401.66
351.051.451.70
401.091.491.74
451.121.531.78
501.161.561.81
551.191.591.84
601.221.621.87
TABLE R301.2(4)
NOMINAL (ASD) GARAGE DOOR WIND LOADS FOR A BUILDING WITH A MEAN ROOF HEIGHT OF 30 FEET LOCATED IN EXPOSURE B (PSF) 1,2,3,4,5
Door SizeULTIMATE DESIGN WIND SPEED (Vult) DETERMINED IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION R301.2.1 (MPH-3 SECOND GUST)
Width
(ft)
Height
(ft)
100 mph110 mph120 mph 130 mph140 mph150 mph160 mph170 mph 180 mph190 mph200 mph
97+9.6-10.9+11.4-12.9+13.7-15.5+16.1-18.2+18.5-20.9+21.3-24.1+24.3-27.5+27.6-31.2+30.6-34.6+34.2-38.6+38.0-43.0
167+9.2-10.3+10.9-12.2+13.1-14.6+15.5-17.2+17.7-19.7+20.4-22.7+23.3-26.0+26.4-29.4+29.3-32.6+32.7-36.5+36.4-40.6
78 mph85 mph93 mph101 mph108 mph116 mph124 mph132 mph139 mph147 mph155 mph
Nominal Design Wind Speed (Vasd) converted from Vult per Section R301.2.1.3
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 1.609 km/h, 1 psf = 47.88 N/m2.
  1. For door sizes or wind speeds between those given above the load may be interpolated, otherwise use the load associated with the lower door size.
  2. Table values shall be adjusted for height and exposure by multiplying by the adjustment coefficient in Table R301.2(3).
  3. Plus and minus signs signify pressures acting toward and away from the building surfaces.
  4. Negative pressures assume door has 2 feet of width in building's end zone.
  5. Table values include the 0.6 load reduction factor.
For SI: °C = [(°F)-32]/1.8.
FIGURE R301.2(1)
ISOLINES OF THE 971/2-PERCENT WINTER (DECEMBER, JANUARY AND FEBRUARY) DESIGN TEMPERATURES (°F)
FIGURE R301.2(2)
SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORIES—SITE CLASS D
  1. Alaska and Hawaii are classified as severe and negligible, respectively.
  2. Lines defining areas are approximate only. Local conditions may be more or less severe than indicated by region classification. A severe classification is where weather conditions result in significant snowfall combined with extended periods during which there is little or no natural thawing causing deicing salts to be used extensively.
FIGURE R301.2(3)
WEATHERING PROBABILITY MAP FOR CONCRETEa, b
FIGURE R301.2(4)
ULTIMATE DESIGN WIND SPEEDS Vult
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mile = 1.61 km.
  1. In CS areas, site-specific Case Studies are required to establish ground snow loads. Extreme local variations in ground snow loads in these areas preclude mapping at this scale.
  2. Numbers in parentheses represent the upper elevation limits in feet for the ground snow load values presented below. Site-specific case studies are required to establish ground snow loads at elevations not covered.
FIGURE R301.2(5)
GROUND SNOW LOADS, Pg, FOR THE UNITED STATES (lb/ft2)
Note: Lines defining areas are approximate only. Local conditions may be more or less severe than indicated by the region classification.
FIGURE R301.2(6)
TERMITE INFESTATION PROBABILITY MAP
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 degree = 0.0175 rad.
Note: a = 4 feet in all cases.
FIGURE R301.2(7)
COMPONENT AND CLADDING PRESSURE ZONES

R301.2.1 Wind Design Criteria

Buildings and portions thereof shall be constructed in accordance with the wind provisions of this code using the ultimate design wind speed in Table R301.2(1) as determined from Figure R301.2(4). Where different construction methods and structural materials are used for various portions of a building, the applicable requirements of this section for each portion shall apply. Where not otherwise specified, the wind loads listed in Table R301.2(2) adjusted for height and exposure using Table R301.2(3) shall be used to determine design load performance requirements for wall coverings, curtain walls, roof coverings, exterior windows, skylights, and exterior doors (other than garage doors). Where loads for garage doors are not otherwise specified, the loads listed in Table R301.2(4) adjusted for height and exposure using Table R301.2(3) shall be used to determine design load performance requirements. Asphalt shingles shall be designed for wind speeds in accordance with Section R905.2.4. A continuous load path shall be provided to transmit the applicable uplift forces from the roof assembly to the foundation.

R301.2.1.1 Wind Limitations and Wind Design Required

The prescriptive provisions of this code for wood construction, cold-formed steel light-frame construction, and masonry construction shall not apply to the design of buildings where the ultimate design wind speed, Vult, from Figure R301.2(4) equals or exceeds 115 miles per hour (51 m/s). The prescriptive provisions of this code include the sizing and attachment requirements specified in Sections R502, R503, R505, R602, R603, R606, R802 and R804.
Exceptions:
  1. For concrete construction, the wind provisions of this code shall apply in accordance with the limitations of Sections R401, R402, R404 and R608.
  2. For structural insulated panels, the wind provisions of this code shall apply in accordance with the limitations of Section R610.
  3. Roof sheathing shall be installed in accordance with Section R803.
In regions where the ultimate design wind speed, Vult, from Figure R301.2(4) equals or exceeds 115 miles per hour (51 m/s), the design of buildings for wind loads shall be in accordance with one or more of the following methods:
  1. AF&PA Wood Frame Construction Manual (WFCM).
  2. ICC Standard for Residential Construction in High-Wind Regions (ICC 600).
  3. ASCE Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE 7).
  4. AISI Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Framing— Prescriptive Method For One- and Two-Family Dwellings (AISI S230).
  5. Florida Building Code, Building; or
  6. The MAF Guide to Concrete Masonry Residential Construction in High Wind Areas shall be permitted for applicable concrete masonry buildings for a basic wind speed of 130 mph (58 m/s) or less in Exposure B and 110 mph (49 m/s) or less in Exposure C in accordance with Figure R301.2(4) as converted in accordance with R301.2.1.3.
The elements of design not addressed by the methods in Items 1 through 6 shall be in accordance with the provisions of this code.

R301.2.1.1.1 Sunrooms

Sunrooms shall comply with AAMA/NPEA/NSA 2100. For the purpose of applying the criteria of AAMA/NPEA/NSA 2100 based on the intended use, sunrooms shall be identified as one of the following categories by the permit applicant, design professional or the property owner or owner's agent in the construction documents. Component and cladding pressures shall be used for the design of elements that do not qualify as main windforce-resisting systems. Main windforce-resisting system pressures shall be used for the design of elements assigned to provide support and stability for the overall sunroom.
  • Category I: A thermally isolated sunroom with walls that are open or enclosed with insect screening or 0.5 mm (20 mil) maximum thickness plastic film. The space is nonhabitable and unconditioned.
  • Category II: A thermally isolated sunroom with enclosed walls. The openings are enclosed with translucent or transparent plastic or glass. The space is nonhabitable and unconditioned.
  • Category III: A thermally isolated sunroom with enclosed walls. The openings are enclosed with translucent or transparent plastic or glass. The sunroom fenestration complies with additional requirements for air infiltration resistance and water penetration resistance. The space is nonhabitable and unconditioned.
  • Category IV: A thermally isolated sunroom with enclosed walls. The sunroom is designed to be heated or cooled by a separate temperature control or system and is thermally isolated from the primary structure. The sunroom fenestration complies with additional requirements for water penetration resistance, air infiltration resistance and thermal performance. The space is nonhabitable and conditioned.
  • Category V: A sunroom with enclosed walls. The sunroom is designed to be heated or cooled and is open to the main structure. The sunroom fenestration complies with additional requirements for water penetration resistance, air infiltration resistance and thermal performance. The space is habitable and conditioned.

R301.2.1.1.1.1 Aluminum Structure Design

The AAF Guide to Aluminum Construction in HighWind Areas shall be permitted for the construction of the aluminum structures therein addressed. Screen enclosures shall be permitted to be designed in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building Section 2002. Wind speeds shall be as for Risk Category I of Figure 1609.3(3) of the Florida Building Code, Building. Vinyl, tempered glass, and acrylic panels shall be permitted and shall be removable. Removable panels shall be identified as removable by a decal. The identification decal shall essentially state: "Removable panel SHALL be removed when wind speeds exceed 75 mph (34 m/s)." Decals shall be placed such that the decal is visible when the panel is installed.

R301.2.1.1.2 Alternative Design Method for Screen Enclosure

  1. The purpose of this section is to provide an alternate method for designing aluminum screen enclosures as defined by the Florida Building Code, permitting the loads of the structural frame to be based on portions of the screen in the screen walls removed, retracted, moved to the open position, or cut. The use of framing materials other than aluminum is allowed in accordance with Section 104.11 of the Florida Building Code, Building. The method applies only to walls and roofs with 100-percent screen.
    1. Screen enclosure frames designed in accordance with the screen removal alternates of this section, shall be designed using signed and sealed site-specific engineering and shall be designed in accordance with the wind load provisions of the Florida Building Code, Building, Section 1609.1.1,
    2. Designs that consider these screen alternates shall comply with Florida Building Code, Building, Section 2002.4 and Table 2002.4, using the 110 mph column as modified by Table 2002.4A with all screen panels in place.
    3. Designs using strength design or load and resistance factor design in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building, Section 1605.2 or allowable stress design methods of the Florida Building Code, Building, Section 1605.3.1 shall be permitted.
    4. The design shall be by rational analysis or by 3D Finite Element Analysis. Either method will be acceptable.
  2. Where screen enclosures are designed in accordance with the screen removal alternates of this section, removable screen may consist of removable panels, retractable panels, or by designating specific screen panels in the design in which the screen is to be removed by cutting the screen. Removable panels shall be removed; retractable panels shall be placed in the retracted position without increasing the load on the affected area. Screen designated in the design to be cut shall be completely cut when wind speeds are forecast to exceed 75 mph.
  3. Where screen enclosures designed in accordance with the screen removal alternates of this section serve as the barrier required by Section R4501.17.1, the required minimum height of the barrier shall be maintained when screen panels are retracted, removed, moved to the open position, or cut.
  4. Where screen enclosures are designed in accordance with the screen removal alternates of this section, retractable screen panels, removable screen panels, and screen panels identified to be cut shall be clearly identified on adjacent structural members with highly visible permanent labels, at each panel, or by other means approved by the local building department.
  5. Where screen enclosures are designed in accordance with the screen removal alternates of this section, the retraction of screen panels, removal of screen panels, or cutting of screen panels shall not require the use of ladders or scaffolding.
  6. Engineering documents submitted with building permit applications shall identify the panels to be removed, retracted, opened, or cut.
  7. Where screen enclosures are designed in accordance with the screen removal alternates of this section based on removing screen panels by cutting the screen, the contractor shall provide replacement screen for a one-time replacement of all screen and spline designated by the design to be cut.
  8. Where screen enclosures are designed in accordance with the screen removal alternates of this section, the contractor shall provide written notice to the owner and the local building code enforcement department that the owner must retract, remove, or cut a panel or panels of the screen enclosure in accordance with the project engineering design or the manufacturer's instructions when wind speeds are expected to exceed 75 mph.

R301.2.1.2 Protection of Openings

Exterior glazed openings in buildings located in windborne debris regions shall be protected from windborne debris. Glazed opening protection for windborne debris shall meet the requirements of the Large Missile Test of ASTM E1996 and ASTM E1886 as modified in Section 301.2.1.2.1, TAS 201, 202 and 203, or AAMA 506, as applicable. Garage door glazed opening protection for windborne debris shall meet the requirements of an approved impact-resisting standard or ANSI/DASMA 115.
  1. Opening in sunrooms, balconies or enclosed porches constructed under existing roofs or decks are not required to be protected provided the spaces are separated from the building interior by a wall and all openings in the separating wall are protected in accordance with this section. Such space shall be permitted to be designed as either partially enclosed or enclosed structures.
  2. Storage sheds that are not designed for human habitation and that have a floor area of 720 square feet (67 m2) or less are not required to comply with the mandatory wind-borne debris impact standard of this code.
Exception: Wood structural panels with a thickness of not less than 7/16 inch (11 mm) and a span between lines of fasteners of 44 inches (1118 mm) shall be permitted for opening protection in buildings with a mean roof height of 33 feet or less in locations where Vult is 180 mph or less. Panels shall be precut to overlap the wall such that they extend a minimum of 2 inches (50.8 mm) beyond the lines of fasteners and attached to the framing surrounding the opening containing the product with the glazed opening. Panels shall be predrilled as required for the attachment method and secured with corrosion-resistant attachment hardware permanently installed on the building.
  1. Attachments shall be designed to resist the component and cladding loads determined in accordance with either Table R301.2(2) or ASCE 7, with the permanent corrosion-resistant attachment hardware provided and anchors permanently installed on the building.
  2. As an alternative, panels shall be fastened at 16 inches (406.4 mm) o.c. along the edges of the opposing long sides of the panel.
    1. For wood frame construction, fasteners shall be located on the wall such that they are embedded into the wall framing members, nominally a minimum of 1 inch (25.4 mm) from the edge of the opening and 2 inches (50.8 mm) inward from the panel edge. Permanently installed anchors used for buildings with wood frame wall construction shall have the threaded portion that will be embedded into the wall framing based on 1/4-inch (6.35 mm) lag-screws and shall be long enough to penetrate through the exterior wall covering with sufficient embedment length to provide an allowable minimum 300 pounds ASD design withdrawal capacity. For concrete or masonry wall construction, fasteners shall be located on the wall a minimum of 1.5 inches (37.9 mm) from the edge of the opening and 2 inches (50.8 mm) inward of the panel edge. Permanently installed anchors in concrete or masonry wall construction shall have an allowable minimum 300 pounds ASD design withdrawal capacity.
    2. For concrete or masonry wall construction, fasteners shall be located on the wall a minimum of 1.5 inches (37.9 mm) from the edge of the opening and 2 inches (50.8 mm) inward of the panel edge. Permanently installed anchors in Concrete or masonry wall construction shall have an allowable minimum 300 pounds ASD design withdrawal capacity and an allowable minimum 525 pounds ASD design shear capacity with a 1.5 inch edge distance. Hex nuts, washered wing-nuts, or bolts used to attach the wood structural panels to the anchors shall be minimum 1/4-inch hardware and shall be installed with or have integral washers with a minimum 1-inch outside diameter.
    3. Vibration-resistant alternative attachments designed to resist the component and cladding loads determined in accordance with provisions of Table R301.2(2) or ASCE 7 shall be permitted.
Table R301.2.1.2 Windborne Debris Protection Fastening Schedule for Wood Structural Panels. Reserved.

R301.2.1.2.1 Application of ASTM E1996

The text of Section 2.2 of ASTM E1996 shall be substituted as follows:
2.2 ASCE Standard:
ASCE 7-10 American Society of Civil Engineers Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures
The text of Section 6.2.2 of ASTM E1996 shall be substituted as follows:
6.2.2 Unless otherwise specified, select the wind zone based on the ultimate design wind speed, Vult, as follows:
6.2.2.1 Wind Zone 1—130 mph ≤ ultimate design wind speed, Vult < 140 mph.
6.2.2.2 Wind Zone 2—140 mph ≤ ultimate design wind speed, Vult < 150 mph at greater than 1 mile (1.6 km) from the coastline. The coastline shall be measured from the mean high water mark.
6.2.2.3 Wind Zone 3—150 mph (58 m/s) ≤ ultimate design wind speed, Vult ≤ 170 mph (76 m/s), or 140 mph (54 m/s) ≤ ultimate design wind speed, Vult ≤ 170 mph (76 m/s) and within 1 mile (1.6 km) of the coastline. The coastline shall be measured from the mean high water mark.
6.2.2.4 Wind Zone 4—ultimate design wind speed, Vult > 170 mph (76 m/s).

R301.2.1.3 Wind Speed Conversion

Where referenced documents are based on nominal design wind speeds and do not provide the means for conversion between ultimate design wind speeds and nominal design wind speeds, the ultimate design wind speeds, Vult, of Figure R301.2(4) shall be converted to nominal design wind speeds, Vasd, using Table R301.2.1.3.
TABLE R301.2.1.3
WIND SPEED CONVERSIONSa
Vult110115120130140150160170180190200
Vasd858993101108116124132139147155
For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
  1. Linear interpolation is permitted.

R301.2.1.4 Exposure Category

For each wind direction considered, an exposure category that adequately reflects the characteristics of ground surface irregularities shall be determined for the site at which the building or structure is to be constructed. For a site located in the transition zone between categories, the category resulting in the largest wind forces shall apply. Account shall be taken of variations in ground surface roughness that arise from natural topography and vegetation as well as from constructed features. For a site where multiple detached one- and two-family dwellings, townhouses or other structures are to be constructed as part of a subdivision or master-planned community, or are otherwise designated as a developed area by the authority having jurisdiction, the exposure category for an individual structure shall be based upon the site conditions that will exist at the time when all adjacent structures on the site have been constructed, provided that their construction is expected to begin within one year of the start of construction for the structure for which the exposure category is determined.
Exception: An intermediate exposure between the exposure categories defined is permitted in a transition zone provided that it is determined by a rational analysis method.

R301.2.1.4.1 Wind Directions and Sectors

For each selected wind direction at which the wind loads are to be evaluated, the exposure of the building or structure shall be determined for the two upwind sectors extending 45 degrees (0.79 rad) either side of the selected wind direction. The exposures in these two sectors shall be determined in accordance with Sections R301.2.1.4.2 and R301.2.1.4.3 and the exposure resulting in the highest wind loads shall be used to represent winds from that direction.

R301.2.1.4.2 Surface Roughness Categories

A ground surface roughness within each 45-degree (0.79 rad) sector shall be determined for a distance upwind of the site as defined in Section R301.2.1.4.3 from the categories defined below, for the purpose of assigning an exposure category as defined in Section R301.2.1.4.3.
  • Surface Roughness B. Urban and suburban areas, wooded areas or other terrain with numerous closely spaced obstructions having the size of single-family dwellings or larger.
  • Surface Roughness C. Open terrain with scattered obstructions having heights generally less than 30 feet (9144 mm). This category includes flat open country and grasslands. This Surface Roughness shall also apply to any building located within Surface Roughness B-type terrain where the building is within 100 feet (30.5 m) horizontally in any direction of open areas of Surface Roughness C- or D-type terrain that extends more than 600 feet (182.9 m) and width greater than 150 feet (45.7 m) in the upwind direction.
  • Surface Roughness D. Flat, unobstructed areas and water surfaces. This category includes smooth mud flats, salt flats and unbroken ice.

R301.2.1.4.3 Exposure Categories

An exposure category shall be determined in accordance with the following:
  • Exposure B. For buildings with a mean roof height of less than or equal to 30 feet (9144 mm), Exposure B shall apply where the ground surface roughness, as defined by Surface Roughness B, prevails in the upwind direction for a distance of at least 1,500 feet (457 m). For buildings with a mean roof height greater than 30 feet (9144 mm), Exposure B shall apply where Surface Roughness B prevails in the upwind direction for a distance of at least 2,600 feet (792 m) or 20 times the height of the building, whichever is greater.
  • Exposure C. Exposure C shall apply for all cases where Exposures B or D do not apply.
  • Exposure D. Exposure D shall apply where the ground surface roughness, as defined by Surface Roughness D, prevails in the upwind direction for a distance of at least 5,000 feet (1524 m) or 20 times the height of the building, whichever is greater. Exposure D shall also apply where the ground surface roughness immediately upwind of the site is B or C, and the site is within a distance of 600 feet (183 m) or 20 times the building height, whichever is greater, from an Exposure D condition as defined in the previous sentence.

R301.2.1.5 Topographic Wind Effects

In areas designated in Table R301.2(1) as having local historical data documenting structural damage to buildings caused by wind speed-up at isolated hills, ridges and escarpments that are abrupt changes from the general topography of the area, topographic wind effects shall be considered in the design of the building in accordance with Section R301.2.1.5.1 or in accordance with the provisions of ASCE 7. See Figure R301.2.1.5.1(1) for topographic features for wind speed-up effect.
In these designated areas, topographic wind effects shall apply only to buildings sited on the top half of an isolated hill, ridge or escarpment where all of the following conditions exist:
  1. The average slope of the top half of the hill, ridge or escarpment is 10 percent or greater.
  2. The hill, ridge or escarpment is 60 feet (18 288 mm) or greater in height for Exposure B, 30 feet (9144 mm) or greater in height for Exposure C, and 15 feet (4572 mm) or greater in height for Exposure D.
  3. The hill, ridge or escarpment is isolated or unobstructed by other topographic features of similar height in the upwind direction for a distance measured from its high point of 100 times its height or 2 miles (3.2 km), whichever is less. See Figure R301.2.1.5.1(3) for upwind obstruction.
  4. The hill, ridge or escarpment protrudes by a factor of two or more above the height of other upwind topographic features located in any quadrant within a radius of 2 miles (3.2 km) measured from its high point.

R301.2.1.5.1 Simplified Topographic Wind Speedup Method

As an alternative to the ASCE 7 topographic wind provisions, the provisions of Section R301.2.1.5.1 shall be permitted to be used to design for wind speed-up effects, where required by Section R301.2.1.5.

Structures located on the top half of isolated hills, ridges or escarpments meeting the conditions of Section R301.2.1.5 shall be designed for an increased basic wind speed as determined by Table R301.2.1.5.1. On the high side of an escarpment, the increased basic wind speed shall extend horizontally downwind from the edge of the escarpment 1.5 times the horizontal length of the upwind slope (1.5L) or 6 times the height of the escarpment (6H), whichever is greater. See Figure R301.2.1.5.1(2) for where wind speed increase is applied.

TABLE R301.2.1.5.1
ULTIMATE DESIGN WIND SPEED MODIFICATION FOR TOPOGRAPHIC WIND EFFECTa, b
ULTIMATE DESIGN WIND SPEED FROM FIGURE R301.2(4) (mph)AVERAGE SLOPE OF THE TOP HALF OF HILL, RIDGE OR ESCARPMENT (percent)
0.100.1250.150.1750.200.230.25
Required ultimate design wind speed-up, modified for topographic wind speed-up (mph)
110132137142147152158162
115138143148154159165169
120144149155160166172176
130156162168174179N/AN/A
140168174181N/AN/AN/AN/A
150180N/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A
For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
  1. Table applies to a feature height of 500 feet or less and dwellings sited a distance equal or greater than half the feature height.
  2. Reserved.

Note: H/2 determines the measurement point for Lh. L is twice Lh.
FIGURE R301.2.1.5.1(1)
TOPOGRAPHIC FEATURES FOR WIND SPEED-UP EFFECT


FIGURE R301.2.1.5.1(2)
ILLUSTRATION OF WHERE ON A TOPOGRAPHIC FEATURE, WIND SPEED INCREASE IS APPLIED


FIGURE R301.2.1.5.1(3)
UPWIND OBSTRUCTION

R301.2.1.6 Testing to Allowable or Nominal Loads

Where testing for wind load resistance is based on allowable or nominal wind loads, the design wind loads determined in accordance with ASCE 7 or Section 1609 of the Florida Building Code, Building are permitted to be multiplied by 0.6 for the purposes of the wind load resistance testing.

R301.2.2 Seismic Provisions

The seismic provisions of this code shall apply as follows:
  1. Townhouses in Seismic Design Categories C, D0, D1 and D2.
  2. Detached one- and two-family dwellings in Seismic Design Categories, D0, D1 and D2.

R301.2.2.1 Determination of Seismic Design Category

Buildings shall be assigned a seismic design category in accordance with Figure R301.2(2).

R301.2.2.1.1 Alternate Determination of Seismic Design Category

The seismic design categories and corresponding short-period design spectral response accelerations, SDS shown in Figure R301.2(2) are based on soil Site Class D, as defined in Section 1613.3.2 of the Florida Building Code, Building. If soil conditions are other than Site Class D, the short-period design spectral response accelerations, SDS, for a site can be determined in accordance with Section 1613.3 of the Florida Building Code, Building. The value of SDS determined in accordance with Section 1613.3 of the Florida Building Code, Building is permitted to be used to set the seismic design category in accordance with Table R301.2.2.1.1, and to interpolate between values in Tables R602.10.3(3), R603.9.2(1) and other seismic design requirements of this code.
TABLE R301.2.2.1.1
SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY DETERMINATION
CALCULATED SDSSEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY
SDS ≤ 0.17gA
0.17g < SDS ≤ 0.33gB
0.33g < SDS ≤ 0.50gC
0.50g < SDS ≤ 0.67gD0
0.67g < SDS ≤ 0.83gD1
0.83g < SDS ≤ 1.25gD2
1.25g < SDSE

R301.2.2.1.2 Alternative Determination of Seismic Design Category E

Buildings located in Seismic Design Category E in accordance with Figure R301.2(2) are permitted to be reclassified as being in Seismic Design Category D2 provided that one of the following is done:
  1. A more detailed evaluation of the seismic design category is made in accordance with the provisions and maps of the Florida Building Code, Building. Buildings located in Seismic Design Category E in accordance with Table R301.2.2.1.1, but located in Seismic Design Category D in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building, shall be permitted to be designed using the Seismic Design Category D2 requirements of this code.
  2. Buildings located in Seismic Design Category E that conform to the following additional restrictions are permitted to be constructed in accordance with the provisions for Seismic Design Category D2 of this code:
    1. 2.1. All exterior shear wall lines or braced wall panels are in one plane vertically from the foundation to the uppermost story.
    2. 2.2. Floors shall not cantilever past the exterior walls.
    3. 2.3. The building is within the requirements of Section R301.2.2.2.5 for being considered as regular.

R301.2.2.2 Seismic Design Category C

Structures assigned to Seismic Design Category C shall conform to the requirements of this section.

R301.2.2.2.1 Weights of Materials

ILLUSTRATION
Average dead loads shall not exceed 15 pounds per square foot (720 Pa) for the combined roof and ceiling assemblies (on a horizontal projection) or 10 pounds per square foot (480 Pa) for floor assemblies, except as further limited by Section R301.2.2. Dead loads for walls above grade shall not exceed:
  1. Fifteen pounds per square foot (720 Pa) for exterior light-frame wood walls.
  2. Fourteen pounds per square foot (670 Pa) for exterior light-frame cold-formed steel walls.
  3. Ten pounds per square foot (480 Pa) for interior light-frame wood walls.
  4. Five pounds per square foot (240 Pa) for interior light-frame cold-formed steel walls.
  5. Eighty pounds per square foot (3830 Pa) for 8-inch-thick (203 mm) masonry walls.
  6. Eighty-five pounds per square foot (4070 Pa) for 6-inch-thick (152 mm) concrete walls.
  7. Ten pounds per square foot (480 Pa) for SIP walls.
Exceptions:
  1. Roof and ceiling dead loads not exceeding 25 pounds per square foot (1190 Pa) shall be permitted provided that the wall bracing amounts in Section R602.10.3 are increased in accordance with Table R602.10.3(4).
  2. Light-frame walls with stone or masonry veneer shall be permitted in accordance with the provisions of Sections R702.1 and R703.
  3. Fireplaces and chimneys shall be permitted in accordance with Chapter 10.

R301.2.2.2.2 Stone and Masonry Veneer

Anchored stone and masonry veneer shall comply with the requirements of Sections R702.1 and R703.

R301.2.2.2.3 Masonry Construction

Masonry construction shall comply with the requirements of Section R606.12.

R301.2.2.2.4 Concrete Construction

Detached one- and two-family dwellings with exterior above-grade concrete walls shall comply with the requirements of Section R608, PCA 100 or shall be designed in accordance with ACI 318. Townhouses with above-grade exterior concrete walls shall comply with the requirements of PCA 100 or shall be designed in accordance with ACI 318.

R301.2.2.2.5 Irregular Buildings

The seismic provisions of this code shall not be used for irregular structures located in Seismic Design Categories C, D0, D1 and D2. Irregular portions of structures shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice to the extent the irregular features affect the performance of the remaining structural system. Where the forces associated with the irregularity are resisted by a structural system designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice, design of the remainder of the building shall be permitted using the provisions of this code. A building or portion of a building shall be considered to be irregular where one or more of the following conditions occur:
  1. Where exterior shear wall lines or braced wall panels are not in one plane vertically from the foundation to the uppermost story in which they are required.
    Exception: For wood light-frame construction, floors with cantilevers or setbacks not exceeding four times the nominal depth of the wood floor joists are permitted to support braced wall panels that are out of plane with braced wall panels below provided that:
    1. Floor joists are nominal 2 inches by 10 inches (51 mm by 254 mm) or larger and spaced not more than 16 inches (406 mm) on center.
    2. The ratio of the back span to the cantilever is not less than 2 to 1.
    3. Floor joists at ends of braced wall panels are doubled.
    4. For wood-frame construction, a continuous rim joist is connected to ends of cantilever joists. When spliced, the rim joists shall be spliced using a galvanized metal tie not less than 0.058 inch (1.5 mm) (16 gage) and 11/2 inches (38 mm) wide fastened with six 16d nails on each side of the splice or a block of the same size as the rim joist of sufficient length to fit securely between the joist space at which the splice occurs fastened with eight 16d nails on each side of the splice; and
    5. Gravity loads carried at the end of cantilevered joists are limited to uniform wall and roof loads and the reactions from headers having a span of 8 feet (2438 mm) or less.
  2. Where a section of floor or roof is not laterally supported by shear walls or braced wall lines on all edges.
    Exception: Portions of floors that do not support shear walls or braced wall panels above, or roofs, shall be permitted to extend not more than 6 feet (1829 mm) beyond a shear wall or braced wall line.
  3. Where the end of a braced wall panel occurs over an opening in the wall below and ends at a horizontal distance greater than 1 foot (305 mm) from the edge of the opening. This provision is applicable to shear walls and braced wall panels offset in plane and to braced wall panels offset out of plane as permitted by the exception to Item 1.
    Exception: For wood light-frame wall construction, one end of a braced wall panel shall be permitted to extend more than 1 foot (305 mm) over an opening not more than 8 feet (2438 mm) in width in the wall below provided that the opening includes a header in accordance with the following:
    1. The building width, loading condition and framing member species limitations of Table R602.7(1) shall apply; and
    2. Not less than one 2 × 12 or two 2 × 10 for an opening not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) wide; or
    3. Not less than two 2 × 12 or three 2 × 10 for an opening not more than 6 feet (1829 mm) in width; or
    4. Not less than three 2 × 12 or four 2 × 10 for an opening not more than 8 feet (2438 mm) in width; and
    5. The entire length of the braced wall panel does not occur over an opening in the wall below.
  4. Where an opening in a floor or roof exceeds the lesser of 12 feet (3658 mm) or 50 percent of the least floor or roof dimension.
  5. Where portions of a floor level are vertically offset.
    Exceptions:
    1. Framing supported directly by continuous foundations at the perimeter of the building.
    2. For wood light-frame construction, floors shall be permitted to be vertically offset when the floor framing is lapped or tied together as required by Section R502.6.1.
  6. Where shear walls and braced wall lines do not occur in two perpendicular directions.
  7. Where stories above grade plane partially or completely braced by wood wall framing in accordance with Section R602 or cold-formed steel wall framing in accordance with Section R603 include masonry or concrete construction. Where this irregularity applies, the entire story shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice.
    Exception: Fireplaces, chimneys and masonry veneer as permitted by this code.

R301.2.2.3 Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2

Structures assigned to Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 shall conform to the requirements for Seismic Design Category C and the additional requirements of this section.

R301.2.2.3.1 Height Limitations

Wood-framed buildings shall be limited to three stories above grade plane or the limits given in Table R602.10.3(3). Cold-formed, steel-framed buildings shall be limited to less than or equal to three stories above grade plane in accordance with AISI S230. Mezzanines as defined in Section R202 that comply with Section R325 shall not be considered as stories. Structural insulated panel buildings shall be limited to two stories above grade plane.

R301.2.2.3.2 Stone and Masonry Veneer

Anchored stone and masonry veneer shall comply with the requirements of Sections R702.1 and R703.

R301.2.2.3.3 Masonry Construction

Masonry construction in Seismic Design Categories D0 and D1 shall comply with the requirements of Section R606.12.1. Masonry construction in Seismic Design Category D2 shall comply with the requirements of Section R606.12.4.

R301.2.2.3.4 Concrete Construction

Buildings with exterior above-grade concrete walls shall comply with PCA 100 or shall be designed in accordance with ACI 318.

R301.2.2.3.5 Cold-Formed Steel Framing in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2

In Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 in addition to the requirements of this code, cold-formed steel framing shall comply with the requirements of AISI S230.

R301.2.2.3.6 Masonry Chimneys

Masonry chimneys shall be reinforced and anchored to the building in accordance with Sections R1003.3 and R1003.4.

R301.2.2.3.7 Anchorage of Water Heaters

Water heaters shall be anchored against movement and overturning in accordance with Section M1307.2.

R301.2.2.4 Seismic Design Category E

Buildings in Seismic Design Category E shall be designed to resist seismic loads in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building, except where the seismic design category is reclassified to a lower seismic design category in accordance with Section R301.2.2.1. Components of buildings not required to be designed to resist seismic loads shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of this code.

R301.2.3 Snow Loads

Wood-framed construction, coldformed, steel-framed construction and masonry and concrete construction, and structural insulated panel construction in regions with ground snow loads 70 pounds per square foot (3.35 kPa) or less, shall be in accordance with Chapters 5, 6 and 8. Buildings in regions with ground snow loads greater than 70 pounds per square foot (3.35 kPa) shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice.

R301.2.4 Floodplain Construction

Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in flood hazard areas (including A or V Zones) as established in Table R301.2(1), and substantial improvement and restoration of substantial damage of buildings and structures in flood hazard areas, shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Section R322. Buildings and structures that are located in more than one flood hazard area shall comply with the provisions associated with the most restrictive flood hazard area. Buildings and structures located in whole or in part in identified floodways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with ASCE 24.

R301.2.4.1 Alternative Provisions

As an alternative to the requirements in Section R322, ASCE 24 is permitted subject to the limitations of this code and the limitations therein.

R301.2.5 Structures Seaward of a Coastal Construction Control Line

Structures located seaward of the coastal construction control line shall be designed to resist the predicted forces of a 100-year storm event in accordance with Section 3109 of the Florida Building Code, Building.

R301.3 Story Height

The wind and seismic provisions of this code shall apply to buildings with story heights not exceeding the following:
  1. For wood wall framing, the story height shall not exceed 11 feet 7 inches (3531 mm) and the laterally unsupported bearing wall stud height permitted by Table R602.3(5).
  2. For cold-formed steel wall framing, the story height shall be not more than 11 feet 7 inches (3531 mm) and the unsupported bearing wall stud height shall be not more than 10 feet (3048 mm).
  3. For masonry walls, the story height shall be not more than 13 feet 7 inches (4140 mm) and the bearing wall clear height shall be not greater than 12 feet (3658 mm).
    Exception: An additional 8 feet (2438 mm) of bearing wall clear height is permitted for gable end walls.
  4. For insulating concrete form walls, the maximum story height shall not exceed 11 feet 7 inches (3531 mm) and the maximum unsupported wall height per story as permitted by Section R608 tables shall not exceed 10 feet (3048 mm).
  5. For structural insulated panel (SIP) walls, the story height shall be not greater than 11 feet 7 inches (3531 mm) and the bearing wall height per story as permitted by Section R610 tables shall not exceed 10 feet (3048 mm).
Individual walls or wall studs shall be permitted to exceed these limits as permitted by Chapter 6 provisions, provided that story heights are not exceeded. An engineered design shall be provided for the wall or wall framing members where the limits of Chapter 6 are exceeded. Where the story height limits of this section are exceeded, the design of the building, or the noncompliant portions thereof, to resist wind and seismic loads shall be in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building.

R301.4 Dead Load

ILLUSTRATION
The actual weights of materials and construction shall be used for determining dead load with consideration for the dead load of fixed service equipment.

R301.5 Live Load

The minimum uniformly distributed live load shall be as provided in Table R301.5.
TABLE R301.5
MINIMUM UNIFORMLY DISTRIBUTED LIVE LOADS (in pounds per square foot)
USELIVE LOAD
Uninhabitable attics without storageb10
Uninhabitable attics with limited storageb, g20
Habitable attics and attics served with fixed stairs30
Balconies (exterior) and deckse40
Fire escapes40
Guards and handrailsd200h
Guard in-fill componentsf50h
Passenger vehicle garagesa50a
Rooms other than sleeping rooms40
Sleeping rooms30
Stairs40c
For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 square inch = 645 mm2, 1 pound = 4.45 N.
  1. Elevated garage floors shall be capable of supporting a 2,000-pound load applied over a 20-square-inch area.
  2. Uninhabitable attics without storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is not more than 42 inches, or where there are not two or more adjacent trusses with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses. This live load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirements.
  3. Individual stair treads shall be designed for the uniformly distributed live load or a 300-pound concentrated load acting over an area of 4 square inches, whichever produces the greater stresses.
  4. A single concentrated load applied in any direction at any point along the top.
  5. See Section R507.1 for decks attached to exterior walls.
  6. Guard in-fill components (all those except the handrail), balusters and panel fillers shall be designed to withstand a horizontally applied normal load of 50 pounds on an area equal to 1 square foot. This load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirement.
  7. Uninhabitable attics with limited storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is not greater than 42 inches, or where there are two or more adjacent trusses with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses.
    The live load need only be applied to those portions of the joists or truss bottom chords where all of the following conditions are met:
    1. The attic area is accessible from an opening not less than 20 inches in width by 30 inches in length that is located where the clear height in the attic is not less than 30 inches.
    2. The slopes of the joists or truss bottom chords are not greater than 2 inches vertical to 12 units horizontal.
    3. Required insulation depth is less than the joist or truss bottom chord member depth.
    The remaining portions of the joists or truss bottom chords shall be designed for a uniformly distributed concurrent live load of not less than 10 pounds per square foot.
  8. Glazing used in handrail assemblies and guards shall be designed with a safety factor of 4. The safety factor shall be applied to each of the concentrated loads applied to the top of the rail, and to the load on the in-fill components. These loads shall be determined independent of one another, and loads are assumed not to occur with any other live load.

R301.6 Roof Load

The roof shall be designed for the live load indicated in Table R301.6 or the snow load indicated in Table R301.2(1), whichever is greater.
TABLE R301.6
MINIMUM ROOF LIVE LOADS IN POUNDS-FORCE PER SQUARE FOOT OF HORIZONTAL PROJECTION
ROOF SLOPETRIBUTARY LOADED AREA IN
SQUARE FEET FOR ANY

STRUCTURAL MEMBER
0 to 200201 to 600Over 600
Flat or rise less than 4 inches per foot (1:3)201612
Rise 4 inches per foot (1:3) to less than 12 inches per foot (1:1)161412
Rise 12 inches per foot (1:1) and greater121212
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 inch per foot = 83.3 mm/m.

R301.7 Deflection

The allowable deflection of any structural member under the live load listed in Sections R301.5 and R301.6 or wind loads determined by Section R301.2.1 shall not exceed the values in Table R301.7.
TABLE R301.7
ALLOWABLE DEFLECTION OF STRUCTURAL MEMBERSb, c
STRUCTURAL MEMBERALLOWABLE
DEFLECTION
Rafters having slopes greater than 3:12 with
finished ceiling not attached to rafters
L/180
Interior walls and partitionsH/180
FloorsL/360
Ceilings with brittle finishes (including plaster
and stucco)
L/360
Ceilings with flexible finishes (including gypsum
board)
L/240
All other structural membersL/240
Exterior walls—wind loadsa with plaster or
stucco finish
H/360
Exterior walls—wind loadsa with other brittle finishesH/240
Exterior walls—wind loadsa with flexible finishesH/120d
Lintels supporting masonry veneer wallseL/600
Note: L = span length, H = span height.
  1. For the purpose of the determining deflection limits herein, the wind load shall be permitted to be taken as 0.7 times the component and cladding (ASD) loads obtained from Table R301.2(2).
  2. For cantilever members, L shall be taken as twice the length of the cantilever.
  3. For aluminum structural members or panels used in roofs or walls of sunroom additions or patio covers, not supporting edge of glass or sandwich panels, the total load deflection shall not exceed L/60. For continuous aluminum structural members supporting edge of glass, the total load deflection shall not exceed L/175 for each glass lite or L/60 for the entire length of the member, whichever is more stringent. For sandwich panels used in roofs or walls of sunroom additions or patio covers, the total load deflection shall not exceed L/120.
  4. Deflection for exterior walls with interior gypsum board finish shall be limited to an allowable deflection of H/180.
  5. Refer to Section R703.8.2.

R301.8 Nominal Sizes

For the purposes of this code, dimensions of lumber specified shall be deemed to be nominal dimensions unless specifically designated as actual dimensions.

R301.9

All exterior wall coverings and soffits shall be capable of resisting the design pressures specified for walls for components and cladding loads in accordance with Table R301.2(2) as modified by Table R301.2(3), Manufactured soffits shall be tested at 1.5 times the design pressure.

Section R302 Fire-Resistant Construction

R302.1 Exterior Walls

ILLUSTRATION
Construction, projections, openings and penetrations of exterior walls of dwellings and accessory buildings shall comply with Table R302.1.
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 eave projections not exceeding 4 inches (102 mm).
  5. Foundation vents installed in compliance with this code are permitted.
  6. Screen enclosure walls of insect screening with a maximum of 25-percent solid flexible finishes.
  7. For zero lot line developments where permitted by local regulations, openings and roof overhang projections shall be permitted on the exterior wall of a building located on a zero lot line when the building exterior wall is separated from an adjacent building exterior wall by a distance of 6 feet or more, and the roof overhang projection is separated from an adjacent building projection by a distance of 4 feet or more, with 1-hour fire-resistive construction on the underside of the overhang required, unless the separation between projections is 6 feet or more.
Table R302.1(1) Exterior Walls. Reserved.
Table R302.1(2) Exterior Walls—Dwellings with Fire Sprinklers. Reserved.
TABLE R302.1
EXTERIOR WALLS
EXTERIOR WALL ELEMENTMINIMUM
FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING
MINIMUM FIRE
SEPARATION DISTANCE
WallsFire-resistance rated1 hour—tested in accordance with ASTM E119
or UL 263 with exposure from the outside or
calculated per Florida Building Code, Building
0 feet
Not fire-resistance rated0 hours3 feeta
ProjectionsNot allowedN/A< 2 feet
Fire-resistance rated1 hour on the undersideb, c2 feeta
Not fire-resistance rated0 hours3 feet
Openings in wallsNot allowedN/A< 3 feet
Unlimited0 hours3 feeta
PenetrationsAllComply with Section R302.4< 3 feet
None required3 feeta
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
N/A = Not Applicable.
  1. For residential subdivisions where all dwellings are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section P2904, the fire separation distance for nonrated exterior walls and rated projections shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 feet, and unlimited unprotected openings and penetrations shall be permitted, where the adjoining lot provides an open setback yard that is 6 feet or more in width on the opposite side of the property line.
  2. The roof eave fire-resistance rating shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 hours on the underside of the eave if fireblocking is provided from the wall top plate to the underside of the roof sheathing.
  3. The roof eave fire-resistance rating shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 hours on the underside of the eave provided that gable vent openings are not installed.

R302.2 Townhouses

Each townhouse shall be considered a separate building and shall be separated by separate fireresistance rated exterior wall assemblies meeting the requirements of zero clearance from property lines of Section R302.1 for exterior walls.
Exception: A common 2-hour fire-resistance-rated wall assembly tested in accordance with ASTM E119, UL 263, or in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building Section 722 is permitted for townhouses if such walls do not contain plumbing or mechanical equipment, ducts or vents in the cavity of the common wall unless such materials and methods of penetration comply with Section R302.4. The wall shall be rated for fire exposure from both sides and shall extend to and be tight against exterior walls and the underside of the roof sheathing. Electrical installations shall be installed in accordance with Chapters 34 through 43. Penetrations of electrical outlet boxes shall be in accordance with Section R302.4.

R302.2.1 Continuity

ILLUSTRATION
The fire-resistance-rated wall or assembly separating townhouses 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 enclosed accessory structures.

R302.2.2 Parapets for Townhouses

Parapets constructed in accordance with Section R302.2.3 shall be constructed for townhouses as an extension of exterior walls or common walls in accordance with the following:
  1. Where roof surfaces adjacent to the wall or walls are at the same elevation, the parapet shall extend not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above the roof surfaces.
  2. Where roof surfaces adjacent to the wall or walls are at different elevations and the higher roof is not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the lower roof, the parapet shall extend not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above the lower roof surface.
    Exception: A parapet is not required in the preceding two cases where the roof covering complies with a minimum Class C rating as tested in accordance with ASTM E108 or UL 790 and the roof decking or sheathing is of noncombustible materials or approved fire-retardant-treated wood for a distance of 4 feet (1219 mm) on each side of the wall or walls, or one layer of 5/8-inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum board is installed directly beneath the roof decking or sheathing, supported by not less than nominal 2-inch (51 mm) ledgers attached to the sides of the roof framing members, for a distance of not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) on each side of the wall or walls and any openings or penetrations in the roof are not within 4 feet (1219 mm) of the common walls.
  3. A parapet is not required where roof surfaces adjacent to the wall or walls are at different elevations and the higher roof is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the lower roof. The common wall construction from the lower roof to the underside of the higher roof deck shall have not less than a 1-hour fire-resistance rating. The wall shall be rated for exposure from both sides.

R302.2.3 Parapet Construction

Parapets shall have the same fire-resistance rating as that required for the supporting wall or walls. On any side adjacent to a roof surface, the parapet shall have noncombustible faces for the uppermost 18 inches (457 mm), to include counterflashing and coping materials. Where the roof slopes toward a parapet at slopes greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (16.7-percent slope), the parapet shall extend to the same height as any portion of the roof within a distance of 3 feet (914 mm), and the height shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm).

R302.2.4 Structural Independence

Each individual townhouse shall be structurally independent.
Exceptions:
  1. Foundations supporting exterior walls or common walls.
  2. Structural roof and wall sheathing from each unit fastened to the common wall framing.
  3. Nonstructural wall and roof coverings.
  4. Flashing at termination of roof covering over common wall.

R302.3 Two-Family Dwellings

ILLUSTRATION
Dwelling units in two-family dwellings shall be separated from each other by wall and floor assemblies having not less than a 1-hour fire-resistance rating where tested in accordance with ASTM E119 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 1/2 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 where the ceiling is protected by not less than 5/8-inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum board, an attic draft stop constructed as specified in Section R302.12.1 is provided above and along the wall assembly separating the dwellings and the structural framing supporting the ceiling is protected by not less than 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board or equivalent.
  3. Screen enclosure walls of insect screening with a maximum of 25-percent solid flexible finishes.

R302.3.1 Supporting Construction

ILLUSTRATION
Where floor assemblies are required to be fire-resistance rated by Section R302.3, the supporting construction of such assemblies shall have an equal or greater fire-resistance rating.

R302.4 Dwelling Unit Rated Penetrations

Penetrations of wall or floor-ceiling assemblies required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section R302.2 or R302.3 shall be protected in accordance with this section.

R302.4.1 Through Penetrations

Through penetrations of fire-resistance-rated wall or floor assemblies shall comply with Section R302.4.1.1 or R302.4.1.2.
Exception: Where the penetrating items are steel, ferrous or copper pipes, tubes or conduits, the annular space shall be protected as follows:
  1. In concrete or masonry wall or floor assemblies, concrete, grout or mortar shall be permitted where installed to the full thickness of the wall or floor assembly or the thickness required to maintain the fire-resistance rating, provided that both of the following are complied with:
    1. 1.1. The nominal diameter of the penetrating item is not more than 6 inches (152 mm).
    2. 1.2. The area of the opening through the wall does not exceed 144 square inches (92 900 mm2).
  2. The material used to fill the annular space shall prevent the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton waste where subjected to ASTM E119 or UL 263 time temperature fire conditions under a positive pressure differential of not less than 0.01 inch of water (3 Pa) at the location of the penetration for the time period equivalent to the fire-resistance rating of the construction penetrated.

R302.4.1.1 Fire-Resistance-Rated Assembly

Penetrations shall be installed as tested in the approved fire-resistance-rated assembly.

R302.4.1.2 Penetration Firestop System

Penetrations shall be protected by an approved penetration firestop system installed as tested in accordance with ASTM E814 or UL 1479, with a positive pressure differential of not less than 0.01 inch of water (3 Pa) and shall have an F rating of not less than the required fire-resistance rating of the wall or floor-ceiling assembly penetrated.

R302.4.2 Membrane Penetrations

Membrane penetrations shall comply with Section R302.4.1. Where walls are required to have a fire-resistance rating, recessed fixtures shall be installed so that the required fire-resistance rating will not be reduced.
Exceptions:
  1. Membrane penetrations of not more than 2-hour fire-resistance-rated walls and partitions by steel electrical boxes that do not exceed 16 square inches (0.0103 m2) in area provided that the aggregate area of the openings through the membrane does not exceed 100 square inches (0.0645 m2) in any 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of wall area. The annular space between the wall membrane and the box shall not exceed 1/8 inch (3.1 mm). Such boxes on opposite sides of the wall shall be separated by one of the following:
    1. 1.1. By a horizontal distance of not less than 24 inches (610 mm) where the wall or partition is constructed with individual noncommunicating stud cavities.
    2. 1.2. By a horizontal distance of not less than the depth of the wall cavity where the wall cavity is filled with cellulose loose-fill, rockwool or slag mineral wool insulation.
    3. 1.3. By solid fire blocking in accordance with Section R302.11.
    4. 1.4. By protecting both boxes with listed putty pads.
    5. 1.5. By other listed materials and methods.
  2. Membrane penetrations by listed electrical boxes of any materials provided that the boxes have been tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing. The annular space between the wall membrane and the box shall not exceed 1/8 inch (3.1 mm) unless listed otherwise. Such boxes on opposite sides of the wall shall be separated by one of the following:
    1. 2.1. By the horizontal distance specified in the listing of the electrical boxes.
    2. 2.2. By solid fireblocking in accordance with Section R302.11.
    3. 2.3. By protecting both boxes with listed putty pads.
    4. 2.4. By other listed materials and methods.
  3. The annular space created by the penetration of a fire sprinkler provided that it is covered by a metal escutcheon plate.

R302.5 Dwelling-Garage Opening and Penetration Protection

Openings and penetrations through the walls or ceilings separating the dwelling from the garage shall be in accordance with Sections R302.5.1 through R302.5.3.

R302.5.1 Opening Protection

Openings from a private garage directly into a room used for sleeping purposes shall not be permitted. Other openings between the garage and residence shall be equipped with solid wood doors not less than 13/8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, solid or honeycomb-core steel doors not less than 13/8 inches (35 mm) thick, or 20-minute fire-rated doors.

R302.5.2 Duct Penetration

Ducts in the garage and ducts penetrating the walls or ceilings separating the dwelling from the garage shall be constructed of a minimum No. 26 gage (0.48 mm) sheet steel, 1 inch (25.4 mm) minimum rigid nonmetallic Class 0 or Class 1 duct board, or other approved material and shall not have openings into the garage.

R302.5.3 Other Penetrations

Penetrations through the separation required in Section R302.6 shall be protected as required by Section R302.11, Item 4.

R302.6 Dwelling-Garage Fire Separation

ILLUSTRATION
The garage shall be separated as required by Table R302.6. Openings in garage walls shall comply with Section R302.5. Attachment of gypsum board shall comply with Table R702.3.5. The wall separation provisions of Table R302.6 shall not apply to garage walls that are perpendicular to the adjacent dwelling unit wall.
TABLE R302.6
DWELLING-GARAGE SEPARATION
SEPARATIONMATERIAL
From the residence and atticsNot less than 1/2-inch gypsum board or equivalent applied to the garage side
From habitable rooms above the garageNot less than 5/8-inch Type X gypsum board or equivalent
Structure(s) supporting floor/ceiling assemblies used for separation required by this sectionNot less than 1/2-inch gypsum board or equivalent
Garages located less than 3 feet from a dwelling unit on the same lotNot less than 1/2-inch gypsum board or equivalent applied to the interior side of exterior walls that are within this area
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

R302.7 Under-Stair Protection

Enclosed accessible space under stairs shall have walls, under-stair surface and any soffits protected on the enclosed side with 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board.

R302.8 Foam Plastics

For requirements for foam plastics, see Section R316.

R302.9 Flame Spread Index and Smoke-Developed Index for Wall and Ceiling Finishes

Flame spread and smoke developed indexes for wall and ceiling finishes shall be in accordance with Sections R302.9.1 through R302.9.4.

R302.9.1 Flame Spread Index

Wall and ceiling finishes shall have a flame spread index of not greater than 200.
Exception: Flame spread index requirements for finishes shall not apply to trim defined as picture molds, chair rails, baseboards and handrails; to doors and windows or their frames; or to materials that are less than 1/28 inch (0.91 mm) in thickness cemented to the surface of walls or ceilings if these materials exhibit flame spread index values not greater than those of paper of this thickness cemented to a noncombustible backing.

R302.9.2 Smoke-Developed Index

Wall and ceiling finishes shall have a smoke-developed index of not greater than 450.

R302.9.3 Testing

Tests shall be made in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.

R302.9.4 Alternative Test Method

As an alternative to having a flame spread index of not greater than 200 and a smoke-developed index of not greater than 450 where tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, wall and ceiling finishes shall be permitted to be tested in accordance with NFPA 286. Materials tested in accordance with NFPA 286 shall meet the following criteria:
The interior finish shall comply with the following:
  1. During the 40 kW exposure, flames shall not spread to the ceiling.
  2. The flame shall not spread to the outer extremity of the sample on any wall or ceiling.
  3. Flashover, as defined in NFPA 286, shall not occur.
  4. The peak heat release rate throughout the test shall not exceed 800 kW.
  5. The total smoke released throughout the test shall not exceed 1,000 m2.

R302.10 Flame Spread Index and Smoke-Developed Index for Insulation

Flame spread and smoke-developed index for insulation shall be in accordance with Sections R302.10.1 through R302.10.5.

R302.10.1 Insulation

Insulation materials, including facings, such as vapor retarders and vapor-permeable membranes installed within floor-ceiling assemblies, roof-ceiling assemblies, wall assemblies, crawl spaces and attics shall have a flame spread index not to exceed 25 with an accompanying smoke-developed index not to exceed 450 where tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.
Exceptions:
  1. Where such materials are installed in concealed spaces, the flame spread index and smoke-developed index limitations do not apply to the facings, provided that the facing is installed in substantial contact with the unexposed surface of the ceiling, floor or wall finish.
  2. Cellulose fiber loose-fill insulation, that is not spray applied, complying with the requirements of Section R302.10.3, shall not be required to meet a flame spread index requirement but shall be required to meet a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 where tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2.
  3. Foam plastic insulation shall comply with Section R316.

R302.10.2 Loose-Fill Insulation

Loose-fill insulation materials that cannot be mounted in the ASTM E84 or UL 723 apparatus without a screen or artificial supports shall comply with the flame spread and smoke-developed limits of Section R302.10.1 where tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2.
Exception: Cellulosic fiber loose-fill insulation shall not be required to be tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2, provided such insulation complies with the requirements of Sections R302.10.1 and R302.10.3.

R302.10.3 Cellulosic Fiber Loose-Fill Insulation

Cellulosic fiber loose-fill insulation shall comply with CPSC 16 CFR, Parts 1209 and 1404. Each package of such insulating material shall be clearly labeled in accordance with CPSC 16 CFR, Parts 1209 and 1404.

R302.10.4 Exposed Attic Insulation

Exposed insulation materials installed on attic floors shall have a critical radiant flux not less than 0.12 watt per square centimeter.

R302.10.5 Testing

Tests for critical radiant flux shall be made in accordance with ASTM E970.

R302.11 Fireblocking

ILLUSTRATION
In combustible construction, fireblocking shall be provided to cut off both vertical and horizontal concealed draft openings and to form an effective fire barrier between stories, and between a top story and the roof space.
Fireblocking shall be provided in wood-framed construction in the following locations:
  1. In concealed spaces of stud walls and partitions, including furred spaces and parallel rows of studs or staggered studs, as follows:
    1. 1.1. Vertically at the ceiling and floor levels.
    2. 1.2. Horizontally at intervals not exceeding 10 feet (3048 mm).
  2. At interconnections between concealed vertical and horizontal spaces such as occur at soffits, drop ceilings and cove ceilings.
  3. In concealed spaces between stair stringers at the top and bottom of the run. Enclosed spaces under stairs shall comply with Section R302.7.
  4. At openings around vents, pipes, ducts, cables and wires at ceiling and floor level, with an approved material to resist the free passage of flame and products of combustion. The material filling this annular space shall not be required to meet the ASTM E136 requirements.
  5. For the fireblocking of chimneys and fireplaces, see Section R1003.19.
  6. Fireblocking of cornices of a two-family dwelling is required at the line of dwelling unit separation.

R302.11.1 Fireblocking Materials

Except as provided in Section R302.11, Item 4, fireblocking shall consist of the following materials.
  1. Two-inch (51 mm) nominal lumber.
  2. Two thicknesses of 1-inch (25.4 mm) nominal lumber with broken lap joints.
  3. One thickness of 23/32-inch (18.3 mm) wood structural panels with joints backed by 23/32-inch (18.3 mm) wood structural panels.
  4. One thickness of 3/4-inch (19.1 mm) particleboard with joints backed by 3/4-inch (19.1 mm) particleboard.
  5. One-half-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board.
  6. One-quarter-inch (6.4 mm) cement-based millboard.
  7. Batts or blankets of mineral wool or glass fiber or other approved materials installed in such a manner as to be securely retained in place.
  8. Cellulose insulation installed as tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263, for the specific application.

R302.11.1.1 Batts or Blankets of Mineral or Glass Fiber

Batts or blankets of mineral or glass fiber or other approved nonrigid materials shall be permitted for compliance with the 10-foot (3048 mm) horizontal fireblocking in walls constructed using parallel rows of studs or staggered studs.

R302.11.1.2 Unfaced Fiberglass

Unfaced fiberglass batt insulation used as fireblocking shall fill the entire cross section of the wall cavity to a height of not less than 16 inches (406 mm) measured vertically. Where piping, conduit or similar obstructions are encountered, the insulation shall be packed tightly around the obstruction.

R302.11.1.3 Loose-Fill Insulation Material

Loose-fill insulation material shall not be used as a fireblock unless specifically tested in the form and manner intended for use to demonstrate its ability to remain in place and to retard the spread of fire and hot gases.

R302.11.2 Fireblocking Integrity

The integrity of fireblocks shall be maintained.

R302.12 Draftstopping

ILLUSTRATION
In combustible construction where there is usable space both above and below the concealed space of a floor-ceiling assembly, draftstops shall be installed so that the area of the concealed space does not exceed 1,000 square feet (92.9 m2). Draftstopping shall divide the concealed space into approximately equal areas. Where the assembly is enclosed by a floor membrane above and a ceiling membrane below, draftstopping shall be provided in floor-ceiling assemblies under the following circumstances:
  1. Ceiling is suspended under the floor framing.
  2. Floor framing is constructed of truss-type open-web or perforated members.

R302.12.1 Materials

ILLUSTRATION
Draftstopping materials shall be not less than 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board, 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) wood structural panels or other approved materials adequately supported. Draftstopping shall be installed parallel to the floor framing members unless otherwise approved by the building official. The integrity of the draftstops shall be maintained.

R302.13 Fire Protection of Floors

Floor assemblies that are not required elsewhere in this code to be fire-resistance rated, shall be provided with a 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard membrane, 5/8-inch (16 mm) wood structural panel membrane, or equivalent on the underside of the floor framing member. Penetrations or openings for ducts, vents, electrical outlets, lighting, devices, luminaires, wires, speakers, drainage, piping and similar openings or penetrations shall be permitted.
Exceptions:
  1. Floor assemblies located directly over a space protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section P2904, NFPA 13D, or other approved equivalent sprinkler system.
  2. Floor assemblies located directly over a crawl space not intended for storage or fuel-fired appliances.
  3. Portions of floor assemblies shall be permitted to be unprotected where complying with the following:
    1. 3.1. The aggregate area of the unprotected portions does not exceed 80 square feet (7.4 m2) per story
    2. 3.2. Fireblocking in accordance with Section R302.11.1 is installed along the perimeter of the unprotected portion to separate the unprotected portion from the remainder of the floor assembly.
  4. Wood floor assemblies using dimension lumber or structural composite lumber equal to or greater than 2-inch by 10-inch (50.8 mm by 254 mm) nominal dimension, or other approved floor assemblies demonstrating equivalent fire performance.

R302.14 Combustible Insulation Clearance

Combustible insulation shall be separated not less than 3 inches (76 mm) from recessed luminaires, fan motors and other heat-producing devices.
Exception: Where heat-producing devices are listed for lesser clearances, combustible insulation complying with the listing requirements shall be separated in accordance with the conditions stipulated in the listing.
Recessed luminaires installed in the building thermal envelope shall meet the requirements of the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation.

Section R303 Light, Ventilation and Heating

ILLUSTRATION

R303.1 Habitable Rooms

ILLUSTRATION
Habitable rooms shall have an aggregate glazing area of not less than 8 percent of the floor area of such rooms. Natural ventilation shall be through windows, skylights, doors, louvers or other approved openings to the outdoor air. Such openings shall be provided with ready access or shall otherwise be readily controllable by the building occupants. The openable area to the outdoors shall be not less than 4 percent of the floor area being ventilated.
Exceptions:
  1. The glazed areas need not be openable where the opening is not required by Section R310 and a whole-house mechanical ventilation system is installed in accordance with Section M1507.
  2. The glazed areas need not be installed in rooms where Exception 1 is satisfied and artificial light is provided that is capable of producing an average illumination of 6 footcandles (65 lux) over the area of the room at a height of 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor level.
  3. Use of sunroom and patio covers, as defined in Section R202, shall be permitted for natural ventilation if in excess of 40 percent of the exterior sunroom walls are open, or are enclosed only by insect screening.

R303.2 Adjoining Rooms

ILLUSTRATION
For the purpose of determining light and ventilation requirements, any room shall be considered to be a portion of an adjoining room where not less than one-half of the area of the common wall is open and unobstructed and provides an opening of not less than one-tenth of the floor area of the interior room and not less than 25 square feet (2.3 m2).
Exception: Openings required for light or ventilation shall be permitted to open into a sunroom with thermal isolation or a patio cover, provided that there is an openable area between the adjoining room and the sunroom or patio cover of not less than one-tenth of the floor area of the interior room and not less than 20 square feet (2 m2). The minimum openable area to the outdoors shall be based upon the total floor area being ventilated.

R303.3 Bathrooms

Bathrooms, water closet compartments and other similar rooms shall be provided with aggregate glazing area in windows of not less than 3 square feet (0.3 m2), one-half of which must be openable.
Exception: The glazed areas shall not be required where artificial light and a local exhaust system are provided. The minimum local exhaust rates shall be determined in accordance with Section M1507. Exhaust air from the space shall be exhausted directly to the outdoors.

R303.4 Mechanical Ventilation

Where the air infiltration rate of a dwelling unit is less than 3.00 air changes per hour where tested with a blower door at a pressure of 0.2 inch w.c (50 Pa) in accordance with Section R402.4.1.2 of the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation, the dwelling unit shall be provided with whole-house mechanical ventilation in accordance with Section M1507.3.

R303.5 Opening Location

Outdoor intake and exhaust openings shall be located in accordance with Sections R303.5.1 and R303.5.2.

R303.5.1 Intake Openings

Mechanical and gravity outdoor air intake openings shall be located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from any hazardous or noxious contaminant, such as vents, chimneys, plumbing vents, streets, alleys, parking lots and loading docks.
For the purpose of this section, the exhaust from dwelling unit toilet rooms, bathrooms and kitchens shall not be considered as hazardous or noxious.
Exceptions:
  1. The 10-foot (3048 mm) separation is not required where the intake opening is located 3 feet (914 mm) or greater below the contaminant source.
  2. Vents and chimneys serving fuel-burning appliances shall be terminated in accordance with the applicable provisions of Chapters 18 and 24.
  3. Clothes dryer exhaust ducts shall be terminated in accordance with Section M1502.3.

R303.5.2 Exhaust Openings

Exhaust air shall not be directed onto walkways.

R303.6 Outside Opening Protection

Air exhaust and intake openings that terminate outdoors shall be protected with corrosion-resistant screens, louvers or grilles having an opening size of not less than 1/4 inch (6 mm) and a maximum opening size of 1/2 inch (13 mm), in any dimension. Openings shall be protected against local weather conditions. Outdoor air exhaust and intake openings shall meet the provisions for exterior wall opening protectives in accordance with this code.

R303.7 Interior Stairway Illumination

Interior stairways shall be provided with an artificial light source to illuminate the landings and treads. The light source shall be capable of illuminating treads and landings to levels of not less than 1 footcandle (11 lux) as measured at the center of treads and landings. There shall be a wall switch at each floor level to control the light source where the stairway has six or more risers.
Exception: A switch is not required where remote, central or automatic control of lighting is provided.

R303.8 Exterior Stairway Illumination

Exterior stairways shall be provided with an artificial light source located at the top landing of the stairway. Exterior stairways providing access to a basement from the outdoor grade level shall be provided with an artificial light source located at the bottom landing of the stairway.

R303.9 Required Glazed Openings

ILLUSTRATION
Required glazed openings shall open directly onto a street or public alley, or a yard or court located on the same lot as the building.
Exceptions:
  1. Required glazed openings that face into a roofed porch where the porch abuts a street, yard or court and the longer side of the porch is not less than 65 percent unobstructed and the ceiling height is not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).
  2. Eave projections shall not be considered as obstructing the clear open space of a yard or court.
  3. Required glazed openings that face into the area under a deck, balcony, bay or floor cantilever where a clear vertical space not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height is provided.

R303.9.1 Sunroom Additions

Required glazed openings shall be permitted to open into sunroom additions or patio covers that abut a street, yard or court if in excess of 40 percent of the exterior sunroom walls are open, or are enclosed only by insect screening, and the ceiling height of the sunroom is not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).

R303.10 Required Heating

Where the winter design temperature in Table R301.2(1) is below 60°F (16°C), every dwelling unit shall be provided with heating facilities capable of maintaining a room temperature of not less than 68°F (20°C) at a point 3 feet (914 mm) above the floor and 2 feet (610 mm) from exterior walls in habitable rooms at the design temperature. The installation of one or more portable space heaters shall not be used to achieve compliance with this section.

Section R304 Minimum Room Areas

ILLUSTRATION

R304.1 Minimum Area

ILLUSTRATION
Habitable rooms shall have a floor area of not less than 70 square feet (6.5 m2).
Exception: Kitchens.

R304.2 Minimum Dimensions

ILLUSTRATION
Habitable rooms shall be not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) in any horizontal dimension.
Exception: Kitchens.

R304.3 Height Effect on Room Area

ILLUSTRATION
Portions of a room with a sloping ceiling measuring less than 5 feet (1524 mm) or a furred ceiling measuring less than 7 feet (2134 mm) from the finished floor to the finished ceiling shall not be considered as contributing to the minimum required habitable area for that room.

Section R305 Ceiling Height

ILLUSTRATION

R305.1 Minimum Height

ILLUSTRATION
Habitable space, hallways and portions of basements containing these spaces shall have a ceiling height of not less than 7 feet (2134 mm). Bathrooms, toilet rooms and laundry rooms shall have a ceiling height of not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm).
Exceptions:
  1. For rooms with sloped ceilings, the required floor area of the room shall have a ceiling height of not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) and not less than 50 percent of the required floor area shall have a ceiling height of not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).
  2. The ceiling height above bathroom and toilet room fixtures shall be such that the fixture is capable of being used for its intended purpose. A shower or tub equipped with a showerhead shall have a ceiling height of not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm) above an area of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) by 30 inches (762 mm) at the showerhead.
  3. Beams, girders, ducts or other obstructions in basements containing habitable space shall be permitted to project to within 6 feet 4 inches (1931 mm) of the finished floor.

R305.1.1 Basements

Portions of basements that do not contain habitable space or hallways shall have a ceiling height of not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm).
Exception: At beams, girders, ducts or other obstructions, the ceiling height shall be not less than 6 feet 4 inches (1931 mm) from the finished floor.

Section R306 Sanitation

R306.1 Toilet Facilities

Every dwelling unit shall be provided with a water closet, lavatory, and a bathtub or shower.

R306.2 Kitchen

Each dwelling unit shall be provided with a kitchen area and every kitchen area shall be provided with a sink.

R306.3 Sewage Disposal

Plumbing fixtures shall be connected to a sanitary sewer or to an approved private sewage disposal system in accordance with Chapter 64E-6, Florida Administrative Code, Standards for Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems.

R306.4 Water Supply to Fixtures

Plumbing fixtures shall be connected to an approved water supply. Kitchen sinks, lavatories, bathtubs, showers, bidets, laundry tubs and washing machine outlets shall be provided with hot and cold water.

Section R307 Toilet, Bath and Shower Spaces

R307.1 Space Required

ILLUSTRATION
Fixtures shall be spaced in accordance with Figure R307.1, and in accordance with the requirements of Section P2705.1.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R307.1
MINIMUM FIXTURE CLEARANCES

R307.2 Bathtub and Shower Spaces

Bathtub and shower floors and walls above bathtubs with installed shower heads and in shower compartments shall be finished with a nonabsorbent surface. Such wall surfaces shall extend to a height of not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) above the floor.

Section R308 Glazing

R308.1 Identification

Except as indicated in Section R308.1.1 each pane of glazing installed in hazardous locations as defined in Section R308.4 shall be provided with a manufacturer's designation specifying who applied the designation, designating the type of glass and the safety glazing standard with which it complies, which is visible in the final installation. The designation shall be acid etched, sandblasted, ceramic-fired, laser etched, embossed, or be of a type that once applied cannot be removed without being destroyed. A label shall be permitted in lieu of the manufacturer's designation.
Exceptions:
  1. For other than tempered glass, manufacturer's designations are not required provided that the building official approves the use of a certificate, affidavit or other evidence confirming compliance with this code.
  2. Tempered spandrel glass is permitted to be identified by the manufacturer with a removable paper designation.

R308.1.1 Identification of Multiple Assemblies

Multipane assemblies having individual panes not exceeding 1 square foot (0.09 m2) in exposed area shall have not less than one pane in the assembly identified in accordance with Section R308.1. Other panes in the assembly shall be labeled "CPSC 16 CFR 1201" or "ANSI Z97.1" as appropriate.

R308.2 Louvered Windows or Jalousies

Regular, float, wired or patterned glass in jalousies and louvered windows shall be not less than nominal 3/16 inch (5 mm) thick and not more than 48 inches (1219 mm) in length. Exposed glass edges shall be smooth.

R308.2.1 Wired Glass Prohibited

Wired glass with wire exposed on longitudinal edges shall not be used in jalousies or louvered windows.

R308.3 Human Impact Loads

Individual glazed areas, including glass mirrors in hazardous locations such as those indicated as defined in Section R308.4, shall pass the test requirements of Section R308.3.1.
Exceptions:
  1. Louvered windows and jalousies shall comply with Section R308.2.
  2. Mirrors and other glass panels mounted or hung on a surface that provides a continuous backing support.
  3. Glass unit masonry complying with Section R607.

R308.3.1 Impact Test

Where required by other sections of the code, glazing shall be tested in accordance with CPSC 16 CFR 1201. Glazing shall comply with the test criteria for Category II unless otherwise indicated in Table R308.3.1(1).
Exception: Glazing not in doors or enclosures for hot tubs, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs and showers shall be permitted to be tested in accordance with ANSI Z97.1. Glazing shall comply with the test criteria for Class A unless indicated in Table R308.3.1(2).
TABLE R308.3.1(1)
MINIMUM CATEGORY CLASSIFICATION OF GLAZING USING CPSC 16 CFR 1201
EXPOSED SURFACE
AREA OF ONE SIDE
OF ONE LITE		GLAZING IN
STORM OR
COMBINATION
DOORS
(Category Class)		GLAZING IN
DOORS

(Category Class)
GLAZED PANELS
REGULATED BY

SECTION R308.4.3

(Category Class)
GLAZED PANELS
REGULATED BY

SECTION R308.4.2

(Category Class)
GLAZING IN
DOORS AND
ENCLOSURES
REGULATED BY
SECTION 308.4.5
(Category Class)
SLIDING GLASS
DOORS PATIO TYPE
(Category Class)
9 square feet or lessIINRIIIII
More than 9 square feetIIIIIIIIIIII
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
NR means "No Requirement."
TABLE R308.3.1(2)
MINIMUM CATEGORY CLASSIFICATION OF GLAZING USING ANSI Z97.1
EXPOSED SURFACE AREA
OF ONE SIDE OF ONE LITE
GLAZED PANELS REGULATED BY
SECTION R308.4.3

(Category Class)
GLAZED PANELS REGULATED BY
SECTION R308.4.2

(Category Class)
DOORS AND ENCLOSURES REGULATED
BY SECTION R308.4.5a

(Category Class)
9 square feet or lessNo requirementBA
More than 9 square feetAAA
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
  1. Use is permitted only by the exception to Section R308.3.1.

R308.4 Hazardous Locations

ILLUSTRATION
The locations specified in Sections R308.4.1 through R308.4.7 shall be considered to be specific hazardous locations for the purposes of glazing.

R308.4.1 Glazing in Doors

Glazing in fixed and operable panels of swinging, sliding and bifold doors shall be considered to be a hazardous location.
Exceptions:
  1. Glazed openings of a size through which a 3-inch-diameter (76 mm) sphere is unable to pass.
  2. Decorative glazing.

R308.4.2 Glazing Adjacent to Doors

Glazing in an individual fixed or operable panel adjacent to a door shall be considered to be a hazardous location where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) above the floor or walking surface and it meets either of the following conditions:
  1. Where the glazing is within 24 inches (610 mm) of either side of the door in the plane of the door in a closed position.
  2. Where the glazing is on a wall perpendicular to the plane of the door in a closed position and within 24 inches (610 mm) of the hinge side of an in-swinging door.
Exceptions:
  1. Decorative glazing.
  2. Where there is an intervening wall or other permanent barrier between the door and the glazing.
  3. Where access through the door is to a closet or storage area 3 feet (914 mm) or less in depth. Glazing in this application shall comply with Section R308.4.3.
  4. Glazing that is adjacent to the fixed panel of patio doors.

R308.4.3 Glazing in Windows

ILLUSTRATION
Glazing in an individual fixed or operable panel that meets all of the following conditions shall be considered to be a hazardous location:
  1. The exposed area of an individual pane is larger than 9 square feet (0.836 m2),
  2. The bottom edge of the glazing is less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor,
  3. The top edge of the glazing is more than 36 inches (914 mm) above the floor; and
  4. One or more walking surfaces are within 36 inches (914 mm), measured horizontally and in a straight line, of the glazing.
    Exceptions:
    1. Decorative glazing.
    2. Where a horizontal rail is installed on the accessible side(s) of the glazing 34 to 38 inches (864 to 965 mm) above the walking surface. The rail shall be capable of with standing a horizontal load of 50 pounds per linear foot (730 N/m) without contacting the glass and have a cross-sectional height of not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm).
    3. Outboard panes in insulating glass units and other multiple glazed panels where the bottom edge of the glass is 25 feet (7620 mm) or more above grade, a roof, walking surfaces or other horizontal [within 45 degrees (0.79 rad) of horizontal] surface adjacent to the glass exterior.

R308.4.4 Glazing in Guards and Railings

Glazing in guards and railings, including structural baluster panels and nonstructural in-fill panels, regardless of area or height above a walking surface shall be considered to be a hazardous location.

R308.4.5 Glazing and Wet Surfaces

ILLUSTRATION
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) measured vertically above any standing or walking surface shall be considered to be a hazardous location. This shall apply to single glazing and each pane in multiple glazing.
Exception: Glazing that is more than 60 inches (1524 mm), measured horizontally and in a straight line, from the water's edge of a bathtub, hot tub, spa, whirlpool or swimming pool or from the edge of a shower, sauna or steam room.

R308.4.6 Glazing Adjacent to Stairs and Ramps

ILLUSTRATION
Glazing where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the plane of the adjacent walking surface of stairways, landings between flights of stairs and ramps shall be considered to be a hazardous location.
Exceptions:
  1. Where a rail is installed on the accessible side(s) of the glazing 34 to 38 inches (864 to 965 mm) above the walking surface. The rail shall be capable of withstanding a horizontal load of 50 pounds per linear foot (730 N/m) without contacting the glass and have a cross-sectional height of not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm).
  2. Glazing 36 inches (914 mm) or more measured horizontally from the walking surface.

R308.4.7 Glazing Adjacent to the Bottom Stair Landing

Glazing adjacent to the landing at the bottom of a stairway where the glazing is less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the landing and within a 60-inch (1524 mm) horizontal arc less than 180 degrees from the bottom tread nosing shall be considered to be 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.
FIGURE R308.4.7
PROHIBITED GLAZING LOCATIONS AT BOTTOM STAIR LANDINGS

R308.5 Site-Built Windows

Site-built windows shall comply with Section 2404 of the Florida Building Code, Building.

R308.6 Skylights and Sloped Glazing

Skylights and sloped glazing shall comply with the following sections.

R308.6.1 Definitions

The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:

R308.6.2 Materials

The following types of glazing shall be permitted to be used:
  1. Laminated glass with not less than a 0.015-inch (0.38 mm) polyvinyl butyral interlayer for glass panes 16 square feet (1.5 m2) or less in area located such that the highest point of the glass is not more than 12 feet (3658 mm) above a walking surface or other accessible area; for higher or larger sizes, the interlayer thickness shall be not less than 0.030 inch (0.76 mm).
  2. Fully tempered glass.
  3. Heat-strengthened glass.
  4. Wired glass.
  5. Approved rigid plastics.

R308.6.3 Screens, General

For fully tempered or heat-strengthened glass, a retaining screen meeting the requirements of Section R308.6.7 shall be installed below the glass, except for fully tempered glass that meets either condition listed in Section R308.6.5.

R308.6.4 Screens With Multiple Glazing

Where the inboard pane is fully tempered, heat-strengthened or wired glass, a retaining screen meeting the requirements of Section R308.6.7 shall be installed below the glass, except for either condition listed in Section R308.6.5. Other panes in the multiple glazing shall be of any type listed in Section R308.6.2.

R308.6.5 Screens Not Required

Screens shall not be required where fully tempered glass is used as single glazing or the inboard pane in multiple glazing and either of the following conditions are met:
  1. Glass area 16 square feet (1.49 m2) or less. Highest point of glass not more than 12 feet (3658 mm) above a walking surface or other accessible area, nominal glass thickness not more than 3/16 inch (4.8 mm), and (for multiple glazing only) the other pane or panes fully tempered, laminated or wired glass.
  2. Glass area greater than 16 square feet (1.49 m2). Glass sloped 30 degrees (0.52 rad) or less from vertical, and highest point of glass not more than 10 feet (3048 mm) above a walking surface or other accessible area.

R308.6.6 Glass in Greenhouses

Any glazing material is permitted to be installed without screening in the sloped areas of greenhouses, provided that the greenhouse height at the ridge does not exceed 20 feet (6096 mm) above grade.

R308.6.7 Screen Characteristics

The screen and its fastenings shall be capable of supporting twice the weight of the glazing, be firmly and substantially fastened to the framing members, and have a mesh opening of not more than 1 inch by 1 inch (25 mm by 25 mm).

R308.6.8 Curbs for Skylights

Unit skylights installed in a roof with a pitch flatter than three units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-percent slope) shall be mounted on a curb extending not less than 4 inches (102 mm) above the plane of the roof unless otherwise specified in the manufacturer's installation instructions.

R308.6.9 Testing and Labeling

Unit skylights and tubular daylighting devices shall be tested by an approved independent laboratory, and bear a label identifying manufacturer, performance grade rating and approved inspection agency to indicate compliance with the requirements of AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440.

R308.6.9.1 Comparative Analysis for Glass-Glazed Unit Skylights

Structural wind load design pressures for glass-glazed unit skylights different than the size tested in accordance with Section R308.6.9 shall be permitted to be different than the design value of the tested unit where determined in accordance with one of the following comparative analysis methods:
  1. Structural wind load design pressures for glassglazed unit skylights smaller than the size tested in accordance with Section R308.6.9 shall be permitted to be higher than the design value of the tested unit provided that such higher pressures are determined by accepted engineering analysis. Components of the smaller unit shall be the same as those of the tested unit. Such calculated design pressures shall be validated by an additional test of the glass-glazed unit skylight having the highest allowable design pressure.
  2. In accordance with WDMA I.S. 11.

Section R309 Garages and Carports

R309.1 Floor Surface

Garage floor surfaces shall be of approved noncombustible material.
The area of floor used for parking of automobiles or other vehicles shall be sloped to facilitate the movement of liquids to a drain or toward the main vehicle entry doorway.

R309.2 Carports

ILLUSTRATION
Carports shall be open on not less than two sides. Carport floor surfaces shall be of approved noncombustible material. Carports not open on two or more sides shall be considered to be a garage and shall comply with the provisions of this section for garages.
Exception: Asphalt surfaces shall be permitted at ground level in carports.
The area of floor used for parking of automobiles or other vehicles shall be sloped to facilitate the movement of liquids to a drain or toward the main vehicle entry doorway.

R309.3 Flood Hazard Areas

For buildings located in flood hazard areas as established by Table R301.2(1), garage floors shall be:
  1. Elevated to or above the design flood elevation as determined in accordance with Section R322; or
  2. Located below the design flood elevation provided that the floors are at or above grade on not less than one side, are used solely for parking, building access or storage, meet the requirements of Section R322 and are otherwise constructed in accordance with this code.

R309.4 Automatic Garage Door Openers

Automatic garage door openers, if provided, shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 325.

R309.5 Fire Sprinklers

Private garages shall be protected by fire sprinklers where the garage wall has been designed based on Table R302.1, Footnote a. Sprinklers in garages shall be connected to an automatic sprinkler system that complies with Section P2904. Garage sprinklers shall be residential sprinklers or quick-response sprinklers, designed to provide a density of 0.05 gpm/ft2. Garage doors shall not be considered obstructions with respect to sprinkler placement.

Section R310 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings

ILLUSTRATION

R310.1 Emergency Escape and Rescue Opening Required

ILLUSTRATION
Basements, habitable attics 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.
Exceptions:
  1. Storm shelters and basements used only to house mechanical equipment not exceeding a total floor area of 200 square feet (18.58 m2).
  2. The emergency escape and rescue opening shall be permitted to open into a screen enclosure, open to the atmosphere, where a screen door is provided leading away from the residence.

R310.1.1 Operational Constraints and Opening Control Devices

Emergency escape and rescue openings shall be operational from the inside of the room without the use of keys, tools or special knowledge. Window opening control devices complying with ASTM F2090 shall be permitted for use on windows serving as a required emergency escape and rescue opening.

R310.2 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings

Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have minimum dimensions as specified in this section.

R310.2.1 Minimum Opening Area

ILLUSTRATION
Emergency and escape rescue openings shall have a net clear opening of not less than 5.7 square feet (0.530 m2). The net clear opening dimensions required by this section shall be obtained by the normal operation of the emergency escape and rescue opening from the inside. The net clear height opening shall be not less than 24 inches (610 mm) and the net clear width shall be not less than 20 inches (508 mm).
Exception: Grade floor or below grade openings shall have a net clear opening of not less than 5 square feet (0.465 m2).

R310.2.2 Window Sill Height

ILLUSTRATION
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.

R310.2.3 Window Wells

ILLUSTRATION
The horizontal area of the window well shall be not less than 9 square feet (0.9 m2), 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.
Exception: 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.

R310.2.3.1 Ladder and Steps

Window wells with a vertical depth greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) shall be equipped with a permanently affixed ladder or steps usable with the window in the fully open position. Ladders or steps required by this section shall not be required to comply with Sections R311.7 and R311.8. Ladders or rungs shall have an inside width of not less than 12 inches (305 mm), shall project not less than 3 inches (76 mm) from the wall and shall be spaced not more than 18 inches (457 mm) on center vertically for the full height of the window well.

R310.2.3.2 Drainage

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.
Exception: A drainage system for window wells is not required where the foundation is on well-drained-soil or sand-gravel mixture soils in accordance with the United Soil Classification System, Group I Soils, as detailed in Table R405.1.

R310.2.4 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings Under Decks and Porches

Emergency escape and rescue openings shall be permitted to be installed under decks and porches provided that the location of the deck allows the emergency escape and rescue openings to be fully opened and provides a path not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height to a yard or court.

R310.2.5 Replacement Windows

Replacement windows installed in buildings meeting the scope of this code shall be exempt from the maximum sill height requirements of Sections R310.1 and Sections R310.2.1 and R310.2.2, provided the replacement window meets the following conditions:
  1. The replacement window is the manufacturer's largest standard size window that will fit within the existing frame or existing rough opening. The replacement window is of the same operating style as the existing window or a style that provides for an equal or greater window opening area than the existing window.
  2. The replacement window is not part of a change of occupancy.

R310.3 Emergency Escape and Rescue Doors

ILLUSTRATION
Where a door is provided as the required emergency escape and rescue opening, it shall be permitted to be a side-hinged door or a slider. Where the opening is below the adjacent ground elevation, it shall be provided with a bulkhead enclosure.

R310.3.1 Minimum Door Opening Size

The minimum net clear height opening for any door that serves as an emergency and escape rescue opening shall be in accordance with Section R310.2.1.

R310.3.2 Bulkhead Enclosures

Bulkhead enclosures shall provide direct access from the basement. The bulkhead enclosure shall provide the minimum net clear opening equal to the door in the fully open position.

R310.3.2.1 Drainage

Bulkhead enclosures 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.
Exception: A drainage system for bulkhead enclosures is not required where the foundation is on well-drained soil or sand-gravel mixture soils in accordance with the United Soil Classification System, Group I Soils, as detailed in Table R405.1.

R310.4 Bars, Grilles, Covers and Screens

Bars, grilles, covers, screens or similar devices are permitted to be placed over emergency escape and rescue openings, bulkhead enclosures, or window wells that serve such openings, provided that the minimum net clear opening size complies with Sections R310.1.1 to R310.2.3, and such devices shall be releasable or removable from the inside without the use of a key, tool, special knowledge or force greater than that required for the normal operation of the escape and rescue opening. The temporary installation or closure of storm shutters, panels, and other approved hurricane protection devices shall be permitted on emergency escape and rescue openings and egress doors during the threat of a storm. Such devices shall not be required to comply with the operational constraints of Section R310.1.1 or R312.2. While such protection is provided, at least one means of escape from the dwelling or dwelling unit shall be provided. The means of escape shall be within the first floor of the dwelling or dwelling unit and shall not be located within a garage without a side-hinged door leading directly to the exterior. Occupants in any part of the dwelling or dwelling unit shall be able to access the means of escape without passing through a lockable door not under their control.

R310.5 Dwelling Additions

Where dwelling additions occur that contain sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be provided in each new sleeping room. Where dwelling additions occur that have basements, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be provided in the new basement.
Exceptions:
  1. An emergency escape and rescue opening is not required in a new basement that contains a sleeping room with an emergency escape and rescue opening.
  2. An emergency escape and rescue opening is not required in a new basement where there is an emergency escape and rescue opening in an existing basement that is accessible from the new basement.

R310.6 Alterations or Repairs of Existing Basements

An emergency escape and rescue opening is not required where existing basements undergo alterations or repairs.
Exception: New sleeping rooms created in an existing basement shall be provided with emergency escape and rescue openings in accordance with Section R310.1.

Section R311 Means of Egress

R311.1 Means of Egress

Dwellings shall be provided with a means of egress in accordance with this section. The means of egress shall provide a continuous and unobstructed path of vertical and horizontal egress travel from all portions of the dwelling to the required egress door without requiring travel through a garage. The required egress door shall open directly into a public way or to a yard or court that opens to a public way.

R311.2 Egress Door

ILLUSTRATION
Not less than one egress door shall be provided for each dwelling unit. The egress door shall be side-hinged, and shall provide a clear width of not less than 32 inches (813 mm) where measured between the face of the door and the stop, with the door open 90 degrees (1.57 rad). The clear height of the door opening shall be not less than 78 inches (1981 mm) in height measured from the top of the threshold to the bottom of the stop. Other doors shall not be required to comply with these minimum dimensions. Egress doors shall be readily openable from inside the dwelling without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.
Exception: Buildings that are 400 square feet or less and that are intended for use in conjunction with one-and two-family residences are not subject to the door height and width requirements of this code.

R311.3 Floors and Landings at Exterior Doors

ILLUSTRATION
There shall be a landing or floor on each side of each exterior door. The width of each landing shall be not less than the door served. Every landing shall have a dimension of not less than 36 inches (914 mm) measured in the direction of travel. The slope at exterior landings shall not exceed 1/4 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2 percent).
Exception: Exterior balconies less than 60 square feet (5.6 m2) and only accessible from a door are permitted to have a landing less than 36 inches (914 mm) measured in the direction of travel.

R311.3.1 Floor Elevations at the Required Egress Doors

Landings or finished floors at the required egress door shall be not more than 11/2 inches (38 mm) lower than the top of the threshold.
Exception: The landing or floor on the exterior side shall be not more than 73/4 inches (196 mm) below the top of the threshold.
Where exterior landings or floors serving the required egress door are not at grade, they shall be provided with access to grade by means of a ramp in accordance with Section R311.8 or a stairway in accordance with Section R311.7.

R311.3.2 Floor Elevations for Other Exterior Doors

Doors other than the required egress door shall be provided with landings or floors not more than 73/4 inches (196 mm) below the top of the threshold.
Exception: A top landing is not required where a stairway of not more than two risers is located on the exterior side of the door.

R311.3.3 Storm and Screen Doors

Storm and screen doors shall be permitted to swing over exterior stairs and landings.

R311.4 Vertical Egress

Egress from habitable levels including habitable attics and basements not provided with an egress door in accordance with Section R311.2 shall be by a ramp in accordance with Section R311.8 or a stairway in accordance with Section R311.7.

R311.5 Construction

R311.5.1 Attachment

Exterior landings, decks, balconies, stairs and similar facilities shall be positively anchored to the primary structure to resist both vertical and lateral forces or shall be designed to be self-supporting. Attachment shall not be accomplished by use of toenails or nails subject to withdrawal.

R311.6 Hallways

The width of a hallway shall be not less than 3 feet (914 mm).

R311.7 Stairways

ILLUSTRATION

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 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 shall be in accordance with Section R311.7.10.1.

R311.7.2 Headroom

ILLUSTRATION
The headroom in stairways shall be not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm) measured vertically from the sloped line adjoining the tread nosing or from the floor surface of the landing or platform on that portion of the stairway.
Exceptions:
  1. Where the nosings of treads at the side of a flight extend under the edge of a floor opening through which the stair passes, the floor opening shall be allowed to project horizontally into the required headroom not more than 43/4 inches (121 mm).
  2. The headroom for spiral stairways shall be in accordance with Section R311.7.10.1.

R311.7.3 Vertical Rise

A flight of stairs shall not have a vertical rise larger than 147 inches (3734 mm) between floor levels or landings.

R311.7.4 Walkline

ILLUSTRATION
The walkline across winder treads shall be concentric to the curved direction of travel through the turn and located 12 inches (305 mm) from the side where the winders are narrower. The 12-inch (305 mm) dimension shall be measured from the widest point of the clear stair width at the walking surface of the winder. If winders are adjacent within the flight, the point of the widest clear stair width of the adjacent winders shall be used.

R311.7.5 Stair Treads and Risers

ILLUSTRATION
Stair treads and risers shall meet the requirements of this section. For the purposes of this section, dimensions and dimensioned surfaces shall be exclusive of carpets, rugs or runners.

R311.7.5.1 Risers

The riser height shall be not more than 73/4 inches (196 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.

R311.7.5.2 Treads

The tread depth shall be not less than 10 inches (254 mm). The tread depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads and at a right angle to the tread's leading edge. The greatest tread depth within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm).

R311.7.5.2.1 Winder Treads

ILLUSTRATION
Winder treads shall have a tread depth of not less than 10 inches (254 mm) measured between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads at the intersections with the walkline. Winder treads shall have a tread depth of not less than 6 inches (152 mm) at any point within the clear width of the stair. Within any flight of stairs, the largest winder tread depth at the walkline shall not exceed the smallest winder tread by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm). Consistently shaped winders at the walkline shall be allowed within the same flight of stairs as rectangular treads and do not have to be within 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) of the rectangular tread depth.
Exception: The tread depth at spiral stairways shall be in accordance with Section R311.7.10.1.

R311.7.5.3 Nosings

The radius of curvature at the nosing shall be not greater than 9/16 inch (14 mm). A nosing projection not less than 3/4 inch (19 mm) and not more than 11/4 inches (32 mm) shall be provided on stairways with solid risers. The greatest nosing projection shall not exceed the smallest nosing projection by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) between two stories, including the nosing at the level of floors and landings. Beveling of nosings shall not exceed 1/2 inch (12.7 mm).
Exception: A nosing projection is not required where the tread depth is not less than 11 inches (279 mm).

R311.7.5.4 Exterior Plastic Composite Stair Treads

Plastic composite exterior stair treads shall comply with the provisions of this section and Section R507.3.

R311.7.6 Landings for Stairways

There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway. The width perpendicular to the direction of travel shall be not less than the width of the flight served. Landings of shapes other than square or rectangular shall be permitted provided that the depth at the walk line and the total area is not less than that of a quarter circle with a radius equal to the required landing width. Where the stairway has a straight run, the depth in the direction of travel shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm).
Exceptions:
  1. A floor or landing is not required at the top of an interior flight of stairs, including stairs in an enclosed garage, provided that a door does not swing over the stairs.
  2. See Section R311.3 for exterior doors where a step down is provided.

R311.7.7 Stairway Walking Surface

The walking surface of treads and landings of stairways shall be sloped not steeper than one unit vertical in 48 inches horizontal (2-percent slope).

R311.7.8 Handrails

ILLUSTRATION
Handrails shall be provided on not less than one side of each continuous run of treads or flight with four or more risers.

R311.7.8.1 Height

Handrail height, measured vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm).
Exceptions:
  1. The use of a volute, turnout or starting easing shall be allowed over the lowest tread.
  2. Where handrail fittings or bendings are used to provide continuous transition between flights, transitions at winder treads, the transition from handrail to guard, or used at the start of a flight, the handrail height at the fittings or bendings shall be permitted to exceed 38 inches (956 mm).

R311.7.8.2 Continuity

Handrails for stairways shall be continuous for the full length of the flight, from a point directly above the top riser of the flight to a point directly above the lowest riser of the flight. Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.
Exceptions:
  1. Handrails shall be permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at the turn.
  2. The use of a volute, turnout, starting easing or starting newel shall be allowed over the lowest tread.

R311.7.8.3 Grip-Size

Required handrails shall be of one of the following types or provide equivalent grasp-ability.
  1. Type I. Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of not less than 11/4 inches (32 mm) and not greater than 2 inches (51 mm). If the handrail is not circular, it shall have a perimeter dimension of not less than 4 inches (102 mm) and not greater than 61/4 inches (160 mm) with a cross section of dimension of not more than 21/4 inches (57 mm). Edges shall have a radius of not less than 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).
  2. Type II. Handrails with a perimeter greater than 61/4 inches (160 mm) shall have a graspable finger recess area on both sides of the profile. The finger recess shall begin within a distance of 3/4 inch (19 mm) measured vertically from the tallest portion of the profile and achieve a depth of not less than 5/16 inch (8 mm) within 7/8 inch (22 mm) below the widest portion of the profile. This required depth shall continue for not less than 3/8 inch (10 mm) to a level that is not less than 13/4 inches (45 mm) below the tallest portion of the profile. The width of the handrail above the recess shall be not less than 11/4 inches (32 mm) and not more than 23/4 inches (70 mm). Edges shall have a radius of not less than 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).

R311.7.8.4 Exterior Plastic Composite Handrails

Plastic composite exterior handrails shall comply with the requirements of Section R507.3.

R311.7.9 Illumination

Stairways shall be provided with illumination in accordance with Section R303.7.

R311.7.10 Special Stairways

Spiral stairways and bulkhead enclosure stairways shall comply with the requirements of Section R311.7 except as specified in Sections R311.7.10.1 and R311.7.10.2.

R311.7.10.1 Spiral Stairways

ILLUSTRATION
Spiral stairways are permitted, provided that the clear width at and below the handrail is not less than 26 inches (660 mm) and the walkline radius is not greater than 241/2 inches (622 mm). Each tread shall have a depth of not less than 63/4 inches (171 mm) at the walkline. All treads shall be identical, and the rise shall be not more than 91/2 inches (241 mm). Headroom shall be not less than 6 feet 6 inches (1982 mm).

R311.7.10.2 Bulkhead Enclosure Stairways

Stairways serving bulkhead enclosures, not part of the required building egress, providing access from the outside grade level to the basement shall be exempt from the requirements of Sections R311.3 and R311.7 where the height from the basement finished floor level to grade adjacent to the stairway is not more than 8 feet (2438 mm) and the grade level opening to the stairway is covered by a bulkhead enclosure with hinged doors or other approved means.

R311.7.11 Alternating Tread Devices

Alternating tread devices shall not be used as an element of a means of egress. Alternating tread devices shall be permitted provided that the required means of egress stairway or ramp serves the same space at each adjoining level or where a means of egress is not required. The clear width at and below the handrails shall be not less than 20 inches (508 mm).

R311.7.11.1 Treads of Alternating Tread Devices

Alternating tread devices shall have a tread depth of not less than 5 inches (127 mm), a projected tread depth of not less than 81/2 inches (216 mm), a tread width of not less than 7 inches (178 mm) and a riser height of not more than 91/2 inches (241 mm). The tread depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projections of adjacent treads. The riser height shall be measured vertically between the leading edges of adjacent treads. The riser height and tread depth provided shall result in an angle of ascent from the horizontal of between 50 and 70 degrees (0.87 and 1.22 rad). The initial tread of the device shall begin at the same elevation as the platform, landing or floor surface.

R311.7.11.2 Handrails of Alternating Tread Devices

Handrails shall be provided on both sides of alternating tread devices and shall comply with Sections R311.7.8.2 to R311.7.8.4. Handrail height shall be uniform, not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864 mm).

R311.7.12 Ships Ladders

Ships ladders shall not be used as an element of a means of egress. Ships ladders shall be permitted provided that a required means of egress stairway or ramp serves the same space at each adjoining level or where a means of egress is not required. The clear width at and below the handrails shall be not less than 20 inches.

R311.7.12.1 Treads of Ships Ladders

Treads shall have a depth of not less than 5 inches (127 mm). The tread shall be projected such that the total of the tread depth plus the nosing projection is not less than 81/2 inches (216 mm). The riser height shall be not more than 91/2 inches (241 mm).

R311.7.12.2 Handrails of Ships Ladders

Handrails shall be provided on both sides of ships ladders and shall comply with Sections R311.7.8.2 to R311.7.8.4. Handrail height shall be uniform, not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864 mm).

R311.8 Ramps

ILLUSTRATION

R311.8.1 Maximum Slope

Ramps serving the egress door required by Section R311.2 shall have a slope of not more than 1 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.3-percent slope). All other ramps shall have a maximum slope of 1 unit vertical in 8 units horizontal (12.5 percent).
Exception: Where it is technically infeasible to comply because of site constraints, ramps shall have a slope of not more than 1 unit vertical in 8 units horizontal (12.5 percent).

R311.8.2 Landings Required

There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each ramp, where doors open onto ramps, and where ramps change directions. The width of the landing perpendicular to the ramp slope shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm).

R311.8.3 Handrails Required

Handrails shall be provided on not less than one side of ramps exceeding a slope of one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.33-percent slope).

R311.8.3.1 Height

Handrail height, measured above the finished surface of the ramp slope, shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm).

R311.8.3.2 Grip Size

Handrails on ramps shall comply with Section R311.7.8.3.

R311.8.3.3 Continuity

Handrails where required on ramps shall be continuous for the full length of the ramp. Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.

Section R312 Guards and Window Fall Protection

R312.1 Guards

Guards shall be provided in accordance with Sections R312.1.1 through R312.1.4.

R312.1.1 Where Required

ILLUSTRATION
Guards shall be located along open-sided walking surfaces, including stairs, ramps and landings, that are located more than 30 inches (762 mm) measured vertically to the floor or grade below at any point within 24 inches (610 mm) horizontally to the edge of the open side. Insect screening shall not be considered as a guard.

R312.1.2 Height

Required guards at open-sided walking surfaces, including stairs, porches, balconies or landings, shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height as measured vertically above the adjacent walking surface or the line connecting the leading edges of the treads.
Exceptions:
  1. Guards on the open sides of stairs shall have a height not less than 34 inches (864 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edges of the treads.
  2. Where the top of the guard serves as a handrail on the open sides of stairs, the top of the guard shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) as measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edges of the treads.

R312.1.3 Opening Limitations

Required guards shall not have openings from the walking surface to the required guard height that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter.
Exceptions:
  1. The triangular openings at the open side of stair, formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail of a guard, shall not allow passage of a sphere 6 inches (153 mm) in diameter.
  2. Guards on the open side of stairs shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 43/8 inches (111 mm) in diameter.

R312.1.4 Exterior Plastic Composite Guards

Plastic composite exterior guards shall comply with the requirements of Section R317.4.

R312.2 Window Fall Protection

ILLUSTRATION
Window fall protection shall be provided in accordance with Sections R312.2.1 and R312.2.2.

R312.2.1 Window Sills

ILLUSTRATION
In dwelling units, where the top of the sill of an operable window opening is located less than 24 inches (610 mm) above the finished floor and greater than 72 inches (1829 mm) above the finished grade or other surface below on the exterior of the building, the operable window shall comply with one of the following:
  1. Operable windows with openings that will not allow a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere to pass through the opening where the opening is in its largest opened position.
  2. Operable windows that are provided with window fall prevention devices that comply with ASTM F2090.
  3. Operable windows that are provided with window opening control devices that comply with Section R312.2.2.

R312.2.2 Window Opening Control Devices

ILLUSTRATION
Window opening control devices shall comply with ASTM F2090. The window opening control device, after operation to release the control device allowing the window to fully open, shall not reduce the net clear opening area of the window unit to less than the area required by Section R310.2.1.

Section R313 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems Reserved

Section R314 Smoke Alarms

ILLUSTRATION

R314.1 General

Smoke alarms shall comply with NFPA 72 and Section R314.

R314.1.1 Listings

Smoke alarms shall be listed in accordance with UL 217. Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms shall be listed in accordance with UL 217 and UL 2034.

R314.2 Where Required

Smoke alarms shall be provided in accordance with this section.

R314.2.1 New Construction

Smoke alarms shall be provided in dwelling units.

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 alarms located as required 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.
  2. Installation, alteration or repairs of plumbing or mechanical systems are exempt from the requirements of this section.

R314.3 Location

ILLUSTRATION
Smoke alarms shall be installed in the following locations:
  1. In each sleeping room.
  2. Outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms.
  3. On each additional story of the dwelling, including basements and habitable attics and not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
  4. Smoke alarms shall be installed not less than 3 feet (914 mm) horizontally from the door or opening of a bathroom that contains a bathtub or shower unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm required by Section R314.3.

R314.3.1 Installation Near Cooking Appliances

Smoke alarms shall not be installed in the following locations unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm in a location required by Section R314.3.
  1. Ionization smoke alarms shall not be installed less than 20 feet (6096 mm) horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.
  2. Ionization smoke alarms with an alarm-silencing switch shall not be installed less than 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.
  3. Photoelectric smoke alarms shall not be installed less than 6 feet (1828 mm) horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.

R314.4 Interconnection

ILLUSTRATION
Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit in accordance with Section R314.3, the alarm devices shall be interconnected in such a manner that the actuation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual dwelling unit. Physical interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be required where listed wireless alarms are installed and all alarms sound upon activation of one alarm.
Exception: Interconnection of smoke alarms in existing areas shall not be required where alterations or repairs do not result in removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or basement available that could provide access for interconnection without the removal of interior finishes.

R314.5 Combination Alarms

Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms shall be permitted to be used in lieu of smoke alarms.

R314.6 Power Source

Smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial source and, where primary power is interrupted, shall receive power from a battery. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than those required for overcurrent protection.
Exceptions:
  1. Smoke alarms shall be permitted to be battery operated where installed in buildings without commercial power.
  2. One-family and two-family dwellings and townhomes undergoing a repair, or a Level 1 alteration as defined in the Florida Building Code, may use smoke alarms powered by 10-year nonremovable, nonreplaceable batteries in lieu of retrofitting such dwelling with smoke alarms powered by the dwelling's electrical system. A battery-powered smoke alarm that is newly installed or replaces an existing battery-powered smoke alarm as a result of a Level 1 alteration must be powered by a nonremovable, nonreplaceable battery that powers the alarm for at least 10 years. The battery requirements of this section do not apply to a fire alarm, smoke detector, smoke alarm, or ancillary component that is electronically connected as a part of a centrally monitored or supervised alarm system, that uses a lowpower, radio frequency wireless communication signal; or that contains multiple sensors, such as a smoke alarm combined with a carbon monoxide alarm or other multisensor devices, and is approved and listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

R314.7 Fire Alarm Systems

Fire alarm systems shall be permitted to be used in lieu of smoke alarms and shall comply with Sections R314.7.1 through R314.7.4.

R314.7.1 General

Fire alarm systems shall comply with the provisions of this code and the household fire warning equipment provisions of NFPA 72. Smoke detectors shall be listed in accordance with UL 268.

R314.7.2 Location

Smoke detectors shall be installed in the locations specified in Section R314.3.

R314.7.3 Permanent Fixture

Where a household fire alarm system is installed, it shall become a permanent fixture of the occupancy, owned by the homeowner.

R314.7.4 Combination Detectors

Combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors shall be permitted to be installed in fire alarm systems in lieu of smoke detectors, provided that they are listed in accordance with UL 268 and UL 2075.

Section R315 Carbon Monoxide Alarms

ILLUSTRATION

R315.1 Carbon Monoxide Protection

Every separate building or an addition to an existing building for which a permit for new construction is issued and having a fossil-fuel-burning heater or appliance, a fireplace, an attached garage, or other feature, fixture, or element that emits carbon monoxide as byproduct of combustion shall have an operational carbon monoxide alarm installed within 10 feet of each room used for sleeping purposes.
Exception: This section shall not apply to existing buildings that are undergoing alterations or repair unless the alteration is an addition as defined in Section R315.1.3.

R315.1.1 Carbon Monoxide Alarm

The requirements of Section R315.1 shall be satisfied by providing for one of the following alarm installations:
  1. A hard-wired carbon monoxide alarm.
  2. A battery-powered carbon monoxide alarm.
  3. A hard-wired combination carbon monoxide and smoke alarm.
  4. A battery-powered combination carbon monoxide and smoke alarm.

R315.1.2 Combination Alarms

Combination smoke/carbon monoxide alarms shall be listed and labeled by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

R315.1.3 Addition Shall Mean

An extension or increase in floor area, number of stories or height of a building or structure.

Section R316 Foam Plastic

R316.1 General

The provisions of this section shall govern the materials, design, application, construction and installation of foam plastic materials.

R316.2 Labeling and Identification

Packages and containers of foam plastic insulation and foam plastic insulation components delivered to the job site shall bear the label of an approved agency showing the manufacturer's name, the product listing, product identification and information sufficient to determine that the end use will comply with the requirements.

R316.3 Surface Burning Characteristics

Unless otherwise allowed in Section R316.5, foam plastic or foam plastic cores used as a component in manufactured assemblies used in building construction shall have a flame spread index of not more than 75 and shall have a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 when tested in the maximum thickness and density intended for use in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Loose-fill-type foam plastic insulation shall be tested as board stock for the flame spread index and smoke-developed index.
Exception: Foam plastic insulation more than 4 inches (102 mm) thick shall have a flame spread index of not more than 75 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 where tested at a thickness of not more than 4 inches (102 mm), provided that the end use is approved in accordance with Section R316.6 using the thickness and density intended for use.

R316.4 Thermal Barrier

Unless otherwise allowed in Section R316.5, foam plastic shall be separated from the interior of a building by an approved thermal barrier of not less than 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard, 23/32-inch (18.2 mm) wood structural panel or a material that is tested in accordance with and meets the acceptance criteria of both the Temperature Transmission Fire Test and the Integrity Fire Test of NFPA 275.

R316.5 Specific Requirements

The following requirements shall apply to these uses of foam plastic unless specifically approved in accordance with Section R316.6 or by other sections of the code or the requirements of Sections R316.2 through R316.4 have been met.

R316.5.1 Masonry or Concrete Construction

The thermal barrier specified in Section R316.4 is not required in a masonry or concrete wall, floor or roof when the foam plastic insulation is separated from the interior of the building by not less than a 1-inch (25 mm) thickness of masonry or concrete.

R316.5.2 Roofing

The thermal barrier specified in Section R316.4 is not required where the foam plastic in a roof assembly or under a roof covering is installed in accordance with the code and the manufacturer's instructions and is separated from the interior of the building by tongue-and-groove wood planks or wood structural panel sheathing, in accordance with Section R803, that is not less than 15/32 inch (11.9 mm) thick bonded with exterior glue, identified as Exposure 1 and with edges supported by blocking or tongue-and-groove joints or an equivalent material. The smoke-developed index for roof applications shall not be limited.

R316.5.3 Attics

The thermal barrier specified in Section R316.4 is not required where all of the following apply:
  1. Attic access is required by Section R807.1.
  2. The space is entered only for purposes of repairs or maintenance.
  3. The foam plastic insulation has been tested in accordance with Section R316.6 or the foam plastic insulation is protected against ignition using one of the following ignition barrier materials:
    1. 3.1. 11/2-inch-thick (38 mm) mineral fiber insulation.
    2. 3.2. 1/4-inch-thick (6.4 mm) wood structural panels.
    3. 3.3. 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) particleboard.
    4. 3.4. 1/4-inch (6.4 mm) hardboard.
    5. 3.5. 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) gypsum board.
    6. 3.6. Corrosion-resistant steel having a base metal thickness of 0.016 inch (0.406 mm).
    7. 3.7. 11/2-inch-thick (38 mm) cellulose insulation; or
    8. 3.8. 1/4-inch (6.4 mm) fiber-cement panel, soffit or backer board.
The ignition barrier is not required where the foam plastic insulation has been tested in accordance with Section R316.6.

R316.5.4 Crawl Spaces

The thermal barrier specified in Section R316.4 is not required where all of the following apply:
  1. Crawlspace access is required by Section R408.4.
  2. Entry is made only for purposes of repairs or maintenance.
  3. The foam plastic insulation has been tested in accordance with Section R316.6 or the foam plastic insulation is protected against ignition using one of the following ignition barrier materials:
    1. 3.1. 11/2-inch-thick (38 mm) mineral fiber insulation;
    2. 3.2. 1/4-inch-thick (6.4 mm) wood structural panels;
    3. 3.3. 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) particleboard;
    4. 3.4. 1/4-inch (6.4 mm) hardboard;
    5. 3.5. 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) gypsum board; or
    6. 3.6. Corrosion-resistant steel having a base metal thickness of 0.016 inch (0.406 mm).

R316.5.5 Foam-Filled Exterior Doors

Foam-filled exterior doors are exempt from the requirements of Sections R316.3 and R316.4.

R316.5.6 Foam-Filled Garage Doors

Foam-filled garage doors in attached or detached garages are exempt from the requirements of Sections R316.3 and R316.4.

R316.5.7 Foam Backer Board

The thermal barrier specified in Section R316.4 is not required where siding backer board foam plastic insulation has a thickness of not more than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) and a potential heat of not more than 2000 Btu per square foot (22 720 kJ/m2) when tested in accordance with NFPA 259 provided that:
  1. The foam plastic insulation is separated from the interior of the building by not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of mineral fiber insulation;
  2. The foam plastic insulation is installed over existing exterior wall finish in conjunction with re-siding; or
  3. The foam plastic insulation has been tested in accordance with Section R316.6.

R316.5.8 RE-Siding

The thermal barrier specified in Section R316.4 is not required where the foam plastic insulation is installed over existing exterior wall finish in conjunction with re-siding provided that the foam plastic has a thickness of not more than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) and a potential heat of not more than 2000 Btu per square foot (22 720 kJ/m2) when tested in accordance with NFPA 259.

R316.5.9 Interior Trim

The thermal barrier specified in Section R316.4 is not required for exposed foam plastic interior trim, provided that all of the following are met:
  1. The density is not less than 20 pounds per cubic foot (320 kg/m3).
  2. The thickness of the trim is not more than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) and the width is not more than 8 inches (204 mm).
  3. The interior trim shall not constitute more than 10 percent of the aggregate wall and ceiling area of any room or space.
  4. The flame spread index does not exceed 75 when tested per ASTM E84 or UL 723. The smoke-developed index is not limited.

R316.5.10 Interior Finish

Foam plastics shall be permitted as interior finish where approved in accordance with Section R316.6 Foam plastics that are used as an interior finish shall meet the flame spread index and smoke-developed index requirements of Sections R302.9.1 and R302.9.2.

R316.5.11 Sill Plates and Headers

Foam plastic shall be permitted to be spray applied to sill plates and headers or installed in the perimeter joist space without the thermal barrier specified in Section R316.4 subject to all of the following:
  1. The thickness of the foam plastic shall be not more than 31/4 inches (83 mm).
  2. The density of the foam plastic shall be in the range of 0.5 to 2.0 pounds per cubic foot (8 to 32 kg/m3).
  3. The foam plastic shall have a flame spread index of 25 or less and an accompanying smoke-developed index of 450 or less when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.

R316.5.12 Sheathing

Foam plastic insulation used as sheathing shall comply with Section R316.3 and Section R316.4. Where the foam plastic sheathing is exposed to the attic space at a gable or kneewall, the provisions of Section R316.5.3 shall apply. Where foam plastic insulation is used as exterior wall sheathing on framed wall assemblies, it shall comply with Section R316.8.

R316.5.13 Floors

The thermal barrier specified in Section R316.4 is not required to be installed on the walking surface of a structural floor system that contains foam plastic insulation when the foam plastic is covered by not more than a nominal 1/2-inch-thick (12.7 mm) wood structural panel or equivalent. The thermal barrier specified in Section R316.4 is required on the underside of the structural floor system that contains foam plastic insulation when the underside of the structural floor system is exposed to the interior of the building.

R316.6 Specific Approval

Foam plastic not meeting the requirements of Sections R316.3 through R316.5 shall be specifically approved on the basis of one of the following approved tests: NFPA 286 with the acceptance criteria of Section R302.9.4, FM 4880, UL 1040 or UL 1715, or fire tests related to actual end-use configurations. Approval shall be based on the actual end-use configuration and shall be performed on the finished foam plastic assembly in the maximum thickness intended for use. Assemblies tested shall include seams, joints and other typical details used in the installation of the assembly and shall be tested in the manner intended for use.

R316.7 Termite Damage

The use of foam plastics in areas of "very heavy" termite infestation probability shall be in accordance with Section R318.8.

R316.8 Wind Resistance

Foam plastic insulation complying with ASTM C578 and ASTM C1289 and used as exterior wall sheathing on framed wall assemblies shall comply with SBCA FS 100 for wind pressure resistance unless installed directly over a sheathing material that is separately capable of resisting the wind load or otherwise exempted from the scope of SBCA FS 100.

Section R317 Protection of Wood and Wood-Based Products Against Decay

R317.1 Location Required

ILLUSTRATION
Protection of wood and wood-based products from decay shall be provided in the following locations by the use of naturally durable wood or wood that is preservative-treated in accordance with AWPA U1 for the species, product, preservative and end use. Preservatives shall be listed in Section 4 of AWPA U1.
  1. Wood joists or the bottom of a wood structural floor when closer than 18 inches (457 mm) or wood girders when closer than 12 inches (305 mm) to the exposed ground in crawl spaces or unexcavated area located within the periphery of the building foundation.
  2. Wood framing members that rest on concrete or masonry exterior foundation walls and are less than 8 inches (203 mm) from the exposed ground.
  3. Sills and sleepers on a concrete or masonry slab that is in direct contact with the ground unless separated from such slab by an impervious moisture barrier.
  4. The ends of wood girders entering exterior masonry or concrete walls having clearances of less than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) on tops, sides and ends.
  5. Wood siding, sheathing and wall framing on the exterior of a building having a clearance of less than 6 inches (152 mm) from the ground or less than 2 inches (51 mm) measured vertically from concrete steps, porch slabs, patio slabs and similar horizontal surfaces exposed to the weather.
  6. Wood structural members supporting moisture-permeable floors or roofs that are exposed to the weather, such as concrete or masonry slabs, unless separated from such floors or roofs by an impervious moisture barrier.
  7. Wood furring strips or other wood framing members attached directly to the interior of exterior masonry walls or concrete walls below grade except where an approved vapor retarder is applied between the wall and the furring strips or framing members.

R317.1.1 Field Treatment

Field-cut ends, notches and drilled holes of preservative-treated wood shall be treated in the field in accordance with AWPA M4.

R317.1.2 Ground Contact

All wood in contact with the ground, embedded in concrete in direct contact with the ground or embedded in concrete exposed to the weather that supports permanent structures intended for human occupancy shall be approved pressure-preservative-treated wood suitable for ground contact use, except that untreated wood used entirely below groundwater level or continuously submerged in fresh water shall not be required to be pressure-preservative treated.

R317.1.3 Geographical Areas

In geographical areas where experience has demonstrated a specific need, approved naturally durable or pressure-preservative-treated wood shall be used for those portions of wood members that form the structural supports of buildings, balconies, porches or similar permanent building appurtenances when those members are exposed to the weather without adequate protection from a roof, eave, overhang or other covering that would prevent moisture or water accumulation on the surface or at joints between members. Depending on local experience, such members may include:
  1. Horizontal members such as girders, joists and decking.
  2. Vertical members such as posts, poles and columns.
  3. Both horizontal and vertical members.

R317.1.4 Wood Columns

Wood columns shall be approved wood of natural decay resistance or approved pressure-preservative-treated wood.
Exceptions:
  1. Columns exposed to the weather or in basements where supported by concrete piers or metal pedestals projecting 1 inch (25 mm) above a concrete floor or 6 inches (152 mm) above exposed earth and the earth is covered by an approved impervious moisture barrier.
  2. Columns in enclosed crawl spaces or unexcavated areas located within the periphery of the building when supported by a concrete pier or metal pedestal at a height more than 8 inches (203 mm) from exposed earth and the earth is covered by an impervious moisture barrier.
  3. Deck posts supported by concrete piers or metal pedestals projecting not less than 1 inch (25 mm) above a concrete floor or 6 inches (152 mm) above exposed earth.

R317.1.5 Exposed Glued-Laminated Timbers

The portions of glued-laminated timbers that form the structural supports of a building or other structure and are exposed to weather and not properly protected by a roof, eave or similar covering shall be pressure treated with preservative, or be manufactured from naturally durable or preservative-treated wood.

R317.2 Quality Mark

Lumber and plywood required to be pressure-preservative treated in accordance with Section R317.1 shall bear the quality mark of an approved inspection agency that maintains continuing supervision, testing and inspection over the quality of the product and that has been approved by an accreditation body that complies with the requirements of the American Lumber Standard Committee treated wood program.

R317.2.1 Required Information

The required quality mark on each piece of pressure-preservative-treated lumber or plywood shall contain the following information:
  1. Identification of the treating plant.
  2. Type of preservative.
  3. The minimum preservative retention.
  4. End use for which the product was treated.
  5. Standard to which the product was treated.
  6. Identity of the approved inspection agency.
  7. The designation "Dry," if applicable.
Exception: Quality marks on lumber less than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness, or lumber less than nominal 1 inch by 5 inches (25 mm by 127 mm) or 2 inches by 4 inches (51 mm by 102 mm) or lumber 36 inches (914 mm) or less in length shall be applied by stamping the faces of exterior pieces or by end labeling not less than 25 percent of the pieces of a bundled unit.

R317.3 Fasteners and Connectors in Contact With Preservative-Treated and Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood

Fasteners, including nuts and washers, and connectors in contact with preservative-treated wood and fire-retardant-treated wood shall be in accordance with this section. The coating weights for zinc-coated fasteners shall be in accordance with ASTM A153. Stainless steel driven fasteners shall be in accordance with the material requirements of ASTM F1667.

R317.3.1 Fasteners for Preservative-Treated Wood

Fasteners, including nuts and washers, for preservative-treated wood shall be of hot-dipped, zinc-coated galvanized steel, stainless steel, silicon bronze or copper. Coating types and weights for connectors in contact with preservative-treated wood shall be in accordance with the connector manufacturer's recommendations. In the absence of manufacturer's recommendations, a minimum of ASTM A653 type G185 zinc-coated galvanized steel, or equivalent, shall be used.
Exceptions:
  1. 1/2-inch-diameter (12.7 mm) or greater steel bolts.
  2. Fasteners other than nails and timber rivets shall be permitted to be of mechanically deposited zinc-coated steel with coating weights in accordance with ASTM B695, Class 55 minimum.
  3. Plain carbon steel fasteners in SBX/DOT and zinc borate preservative-treated wood in an interior, dry environment shall be permitted.

R317.3.2 Fastenings for Wood Foundations

Fastenings, including nuts and washers, for wood foundations shall be as required in AF&PA; PWF.

R317.3.3 Fasteners for Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood Used in Exterior Applications or Wet or Damp Locations

Fasteners, including nuts and washers, for fire-retardant-treated wood used in exterior applications or wet or damp locations shall be of hot-dipped, zinc-coated galvanized steel, stainless steel, silicon bronze or copper. Fasteners other than nails and timber rivets shall be permitted to be of mechanically deposited zinc-coated steel with coating weights in accordance with ASTM B695, Class 55 minimum.

R317.3.4 Fasteners for Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood Used in Interior Applications

Fasteners, including nuts and washers, for fire-retardant-treated wood used in interior locations shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. In the absence of the manufacturer's recommendations, Section R317.3.3 shall apply.

R317.4 Plastic Composites

Plastic composite exterior deck boards, stair treads, guards and handrails containing wood, cellulosic or other biodegradable materials shall comply with the requirements of Section R507.3.

Section R318 Protection Against Termites

R318.1 Termite Protection

Termite protection shall be provided by registered termiticides, including soil applied pesticides, baiting systems, and pesticides applied to wood, or other approved methods of termite protection labeled for use as a preventative treatment to new construction. See Section 202, "Registered termiticide." Upon completion of the application of the termite protective treatment, a Certificate of Compliance shall be issued to the building department by the licensed pest control company that contains the following statement: "The building has received a complete treatment for the prevention of subterranean termites. Treatment is in accordance with rules and laws established by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services."

R318.1.1

If soil treatment is used for subterranean termite prevention, the initial chemical soil treatment inside the foundation perimeter shall be done after all excavation, backfilling and compaction is complete.

R318.1.2

If soil treatment is used for subterranean termite prevention, soil area disturbed after initial chemical soil treatment shall be retreated with a chemical soil treatment, including spaces boxed or formed.

R318.1.3

If soil treatment is used for subterranean termite prevention, space in concrete floors boxed out or formed for the subsequent installation of plumbing traps, drains or any other purpose shall be created by using plastic or metal permanently placed forms of sufficient depth to eliminate any planned soil disturbance after initial chemical soil treatment.

R318.1.4

If soil treatment is used for subterranean termite prevention, chemically treated soil shall be protected with a minimum 6 mil vapor retarder to protect against rainfall dilution. If rainfall occurs before vapor retarder placement, retreatment is required. Any work, including placement of reinforcing steel, done after chemical treatment until the concrete floor is poured, shall be done in such manner as to avoid penetrating or disturbing treated soil.

R318.1.5

If soil treatment is used for subterranean termite prevention, concrete overpour or mortar accumulated along the exterior foundation perimeter shall be removed prior to exterior chemical soil treatment, to enhance vertical penetration of the chemicals.

R318.1.6

If soil treatment is used for subterranean termite prevention, chemical soil treatments shall also be applied under all exterior concrete or grade within 1 foot (305 mm) of the primary structure sidewalls. Also, a vertical chemical barrier shall be applied promptly after construction is completed, including initial landscaping and irrigation/sprinkler installation. Any soil disturbed after the chemical vertical barrier is applied shall be promptly retreated.

R318.1.7

If a registered termiticide formulated and registered as a bait system is used for subterranean termite prevention, Sections R318.1.1 through R318.1.6 do not apply; however, a signed contract assuring the installation, maintenance and monitoring of the baiting system that is in compliance with the requirements of Chapter 482, Florida Statutes shall be provided to the building official prior to the pouring of the slab, and the system must be installed prior to final building approval.
If the baiting system directions for use require a monitoring phase prior to installation of the pesticide active ingredient, the installation of the monitoring phase components shall be deemed to constitute installation of the system.

R318.1.8

If a registered termiticide formulated and registered as a wood treatment is used for subterranean termite prevention, Sections R318.1.1 through R318.1.6 do not apply. Application of the wood treatment termiticide shall be as required by label directions for use, and must be completed prior to final building approval.

R318.2 Penetration

Protective sleeves around piping penetrating concrete slab-on-grade floors shall not be of cellulose-containing materials. If soil treatment is used for subterranean termite protection, the sleeve shall have a maximum wall thickness of 0.010 inch (0.25 mm), and be sealed within the slab using a noncorrosive clamping device to eliminate the annular space between the pipe and the sleeve. No termiticides shall be applied inside the sleeve.

R318.3 Cleaning

Cells and cavities in masonry units and air gaps between brick, stone or masonry veneers and the structure shall be cleaned of all nonpreservative treated or non-naturally durable wood, or other cellulose-containing material prior to concrete placement.
Exception: Inorganic material manufactured for closing cells in foundation concrete masonry unit construction or clean earth fill placed in concrete masonry unit voids below slab level before termite treatment is performed.

R318.4 Concrete Bearing Ledge

Brick, stone or other veneer shall be supported by a concrete bearing ledge at least equal to the total thickness of the brick, stone or other veneer which is poured integrally with the concrete foundation. No supplemental concrete foundation pours which will create a hidden cold joint shall be used without supplemental treatment in the foundation unless there is an approved physical barrier. An approved physical barrier shall also be installed from below the wall sill plate or first block course horizontally to embed in a mortar joint. If masonry veneer extends below grade, a termite protective treatment must be applied to the cavity created between the veneer and the foundation, in lieu of a physical barrier.
Exception: Veneer supported by a structural member secured to the foundation sidewall in accordance with ACI 530/ASCE 5/TMS 402, provided at least a 6 inch (152 mm) clear inspection space of the foundation sidewall exterior exist between the veneer and the top of any soil, sod, mulch or other organic landscaping component, deck, apron, porch, walk or any other work immediately adjacent to or adjoining the structure.

R318.5 Protection Against Decay and Termites

Condensate lines, irrigation/sprinkler system risers for spray heads, and roof downspouts shall discharge at least 1 foot (305 mm) away from the structure sidewall, whether by underground piping, tail extensions or splash blocks. Gutters with downspouts are required on all buildings with eaves of less than 6 inches (152 mm) horizontal projection except for gable end rakes or on a roof above another roof.

R318.6 Preparation of Building Site and Removal of Debris

R318.6.1

All building sites shall be graded to provide drainage under all portions of the building not occupied by basements.

R318.6.2

The foundation and the area encompassed within 1 foot (305 mm) therein shall have all vegetation, stumps, dead roots, cardboard, trash and foreign material removed and the fill material shall be free of vegetation and foreign material. The fill shall be compacted to assure adequate support of the foundation.

R318.6.3

After all work is completed, loose wood and debris shall be completely removed from under the building and within 1 foot (305 mm) thereof. All wood forms and supports shall be completely removed. This includes, but is not limited to: wooden grade stakes, forms, contraction spacers, tub trap boxes, plumbing supports, bracing, shoring, forms or other cellulose-containing material placed in any location where such materials are not clearly visible and readily removable prior to completion of the work. Wood shall not be stored in contact with the ground under any building.

R318.7 Inspection for Termites

In order to provide for inspection for termite infestation, clearance between exterior wall coverings and final earth grade on the exterior of a building shall not be less than 6 inches (152 mm).
Exceptions:
  1. Paint or decorative cementitious finish less than 5/8 inch (17.1 mm) thick adhered directly to the masonry foundation sidewall.
  2. Access or vehicle ramps which rise to the interior finish floor elevation for the width of such ramps only.
  3. A 4-inch (102 mm) inspection space above patio and garage slabs and entry areas.
  4. If the patio has been soil treated for termites, the finish elevation may match the building interior finish floor elevations on masonry construction only.
  5. Masonry veneers constructed in accordance with Section R318.4.

R318.8 Foam Plastic Protection

In areas where the probability of termite infestation is "very heavy" as indicated in Figure R301.2(6), extruded and expanded polystyrene, polyisocyanurate and other foam plastics shall not be installed on the exterior face or under interior or exterior foundation walls or slab foundations located below grade. The clearance between foam plastics installed above grade and exposed earth shall be at least 6 inches (152 mm).
Exceptions:
  1. Buildings where the structural members of walls, floors, ceilings and roofs are entirely of noncombustible materials or pressure-preservative-treated wood.
  2. When in addition to the requirements of Section R318.1, an approved method of protecting the foam plastic and structure from subterranean termite damage is used.
  3. On the interior side of basement walls.

Section R319 Site Address

R319.1 Address Identification

ILLUSTRATION
Buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in height with a stroke width of not less than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building address cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.

Section R320 Accessibility

R320.1 Scope

Shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Florida Building Code, Accessibility.

R320.1.1

All new single-family houses, duplexes, triplexes, condominiums and townhouses shall provide at least one bathroom, located with maximum possible privacy, where bathrooms are provided on habitable grade levels, with a door that has a 29-inch (737 mm) clear opening. However, if only a toilet room is provided at grade level, such toilet rooms shall have a clear opening of not less than 29 inches (737 mm).

Section R321 Elevators and Platform Lifts

R321.1 Elevators

Where provided, passenger elevators, limited-use and limited-application elevators or private residence elevators shall comply with ASME A17.1/CSA B44.

R321.2 Platform Lifts

ILLUSTRATION
Where provided, platform lifts shall comply with ASME A18.1.

R321.3 Accessibility

Reserved.

R321.4 Clearance Requirements Between Elevator Doors for Elevators Inside a Private Residence

R321.4.1 For Elevators Installed in a Private Residence:

  1. The distance between the hoistway face of the hoistway doors and the hoistway edge of the landing sill may not exceed 3/4 inch for swinging doors and 21/4 inches for sliding doors.
    1. Horizontal sliding car doors and gates shall be designed and installed to withstand a force of 75 pounds applied horizontally on an area 4 inches by 4 inches at right angles to and at any location on the car door without permanent deformation. The deflection may not exceed 3/4 inch and may not displace the door from its guides or tracks. The force must be applied while the door is in the fully closed position.
    2. Folding car doors shall be designed and installed to withstand a force of 75 pounds applied horizontally using a 4-inch-diameter sphere at any location within the folds on the car door without permanent deformation. The deflection may not exceed 3/4 inch and may not displace the door from its guides or tracks. The force must be applied while the door is in the fully closed position.
  3. The distance between the hoistway face of the landing door and the hoistway face of the car door or gate shall conform to one of the following:
    1. If a power-operated horizontally sliding hoistway and car doors are used, the measurement between the leading edge of the doors or sight guard, if provided, may not exceed 4 inches. If it is possible for a user to detach or disconnect either door from the operator and such detachment or disconnection allows the user to operate the door manually, the requirement in subparagraph 5 applies.
    2. If swinging hoistway doors and folding car doors are used and both doors are in the fully closed position, the space between the hoistway door and the folding door must reject a 4-inchdiameter sphere at all points.
    3. If swinging hoistway doors and car gates are used, the space between the hoistway door and the car gate must reject a 4-inch-diameter sphere at all points.
    4. If the car doors are powered and arranged so that they cannot be closed until after the hoistway door is closed, and the car doors automatically open when the car is at a landing and the hoistway door is opened, the measurement between the hoistway face of the hoistway door and the hoistway face of the car door at its leading edge may not exceed 4 inches. If it is possible for a user to detach or disconnect either door from the operator and such detachment or disconnection allows the user to operate the door manually, the requirement in subparagraph 5 applies.
    5. If swinging or horizontally sliding hoistway doors and manual horizontally sliding car doors are used and both doors are in the fully closed position, the space between the swinging or horizontally sliding hoistway door and the manual horizontally sliding car doors must reject a 4-inch-diameter sphere at all points.
Exception: As an alternative to compliance with Section R321.4.1, Items 2 through 5, a permanent installation of a nonremovable, hoistway door space guard is allowed. The door space guard must be designed and installed to withstand a force of 75 pounds applied horizontally using a 4-inch-diameter sphere at any location within the folds on the car door without permanent deformation.

R321.4.2

During normal operation, the elevator controller must monitor the closed and locked contacts of the hoistway door locking device, whether electrical or mechanical. If the closed and locked contacts of the landing locks are open while the car is not in the unlocking zone for the hoistway door locking device, the elevator controller must interrupt power to the motor and brake and must not allow the elevator car to restart until the owner or the owner's agent, with a master elevator key, has checked for obstructions above and below the elevator car, returned the hoistway door locking device contacts to the normal operating position, and manually reset the elevator controller with the master elevator key. Additionally, a visual indicator must be visible at all landings until the hoistway door locking device has been returned to the normal operating position and the elevator controller has been manually reset.

Section R322 Flood-Resistant Construction

ILLUSTRATION

R322.1 General

Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in flood hazard areas, including A or V Zones and Coastal A Zones, as established in Table R301.2(1), and substantial improvement and restoration of substantial damage of buildings and structures in flood hazard areas, shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions contained in this section. Buildings and structures that are located in more than one flood hazard area shall comply with the provisions associated with the most restrictive flood hazard area. Buildings and structures located in whole or in part in identified floodways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with ASCE 24.

R322.1.1 Alternative Provisions

As an alternative to the requirements in Section R322, ASCE 24 is permitted subject to the limitations of this code and the limitations therein.

R322.1.2 Structural Systems

Structural systems of buildings and structures shall be designed, connected and anchored to resist flotation, collapse or permanent lateral movement due to structural loads and stresses from flooding equal to the design flood elevation.

R322.1.3 Flood-Resistant Construction

Buildings and structures erected in areas prone to flooding shall be constructed by methods and practices that minimize flood damage.

R322.1.4 Establishing the Design Flood Elevation

The design flood elevation shall be used to define flood hazard areas. At a minimum, the design flood elevation shall be the higher of the following:
  1. The base flood elevation at the depth of peak elevation of flooding, including wave height, that has a 1 percent (100-year flood) or greater chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year; or
  2. The elevation of the design flood associated with the area designated on a flood hazard map adopted by the community, or otherwise legally designated.

R322.1.4.1 Determination of Design Flood Elevations

If design flood elevations are not specified, the building official is authorized to require the applicant to comply with either of the following:
  1. Obtain and reasonably use data available from a federal, state or other source; or
  2. Determine the design flood elevation in accordance with accepted hydrologic and hydraulic engineering practices used to define special flood hazard areas. Determinations shall be undertaken by a registered design professional who shall document that the technical methods used reflect currently accepted engineering practice. Studies, analyses and computations shall be submitted in sufficient detail to allow thorough review and approval.

R322.1.4.2 Determination of Impacts

In riverine flood hazard areas where design flood elevations are specified but floodways have not been designated, the applicant shall demonstrate that the effect of the proposed buildings and structures on design flood elevations, including fill, when combined with other existing and anticipated flood hazard area encroachments, will not increase the design flood elevation more than 1 foot (305 mm) at any point within the jurisdiction.

R322.1.5 Lowest Floor

ILLUSTRATION
The lowest floor shall be the lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area, including basement, and excluding any unfinished flood-resistant enclosure that is useable solely for vehicle parking, building access or limited storage provided that such enclosure is not built so as to render the building or structure in violation of this section.

R322.1.6 Protection of Mechanical, Plumbing and Electrical Systems

ILLUSTRATION
Electrical systems, equipment and components; heating, ventilating, air conditioning; plumbing appliances and plumbing fixtures; duct systems; and other service equipment shall be located at or above the elevation required in Section R322.2 or R322.3. If replaced as part of a substantial improvement, electrical systems, equipment and components; heating, ventilating, air conditioning and plumbing appliances and plumbing fixtures; duct systems; and other service equipment shall meet the requirements of this section. Systems, fixtures, and equipment and components shall not be mounted on or penetrate through walls intended to break away under flood loads.
Exception: Locating electrical systems, equipment and components; heating, ventilating, air conditioning; plumbing appliances and plumbing fixtures; duct systems; and other service equipment is permitted below the elevation required in Section R322.2 or R322.3 provided that they are designed and installed to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the components and to resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and stresses, including the effects of buoyancy, during the occurrence of flooding to the design flood elevation in accordance with ASCE 24. Electrical wiring systems are permitted to be located below the required elevation provided that they conform to the provisions of the electrical part of this code for wet locations.

R322.1.7 Protection of Water Supply and Sanitary Sewage Systems

New and replacement water supply systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the systems in accordance with the plumbing provisions of this code. New and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into systems and discharges from systems into floodwaters in accordance with the plumbing provisions of this code and in accordance with Chapter 64E-6, Florida Administrative Code, Standards for Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems.

R322.1.8 Flood-Resistant Materials

Building materials and installation methods used for flooring and interior and exterior walls and wall coverings below the elevation required in Section R322.2 or R322.3 shall be flood damage-resistant materials that conform to the provisions of FEMA TB-2.

R322.1.9 Manufactured Homes

In addition to the applicable requirements of the state agency with jurisdiction over installation of manufactured homes, installation of manufactured homes in flood hazard areas is subject to the applicable provisions of the local floodplain management ordinance.

R322.1.10 As-Built Elevation Documentation

A registered design professional shall prepare and seal documentation of the elevations specified in Section R322.2 or R322.3.

R322.1.11 Structures Seaward of a Coastal Control Construction Line

In addition to the requirements of this section, structures located in flood hazard areas and seaward of the coastal construction line shall be designed to resist the predicted forces of a 100-year storm event in accordance with Section R3109 of the Florida Building Code, Building, and the more restrictive provisions shall govern.

R322.2 Flood Hazard Areas (Including A Zones)

Areas that have been determined to be prone to flooding and that are not subject to high-velocity wave action shall be designated as flood hazard areas. Flood hazard areas that have been delineated as subject to wave heights between 11/2 feet (457 mm) and 3 feet (914 mm) or otherwise designated by the jurisdiction shall be designated as Coastal A Zones and are subject to the requirements of Section R322.3. Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in flood hazard areas shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections R322.2.1 through R322.2.4.

R322.2.1 Elevation Requirements

  1. Buildings and structures in flood hazard areas, including flood hazard areas designated as Coastal A Zones, shall have the lowest floors elevated to or above the base flood elevation plus 1 foot (305 mm), or the design flood elevation, whichever is higher.
  2. In areas of shallow flooding (AO Zones), buildings and structures shall have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated to a height above the highest adjacent grade of not less than the depth number specified in feet (mm) on the FIRM plus 1 foot (305 mm), or not less than 3 feet (915 mm) if a depth number is not specified.
  3. Basement floors that are below grade on all sides shall be elevated to or above base flood elevation plus 1 foot (305 mm), or the design flood elevation, whichever is higher.
Exception: Enclosed areas below the design flood elevation, including basements with floors that are not below grade on all sides, shall meet the requirements of Section R322.2.2.

R322.2.2 Enclosed Area Below Design Flood Elevation

Enclosed areas, including crawl spaces, that are below the design flood elevation shall:
  1. Be used solely for parking of vehicles, building access or storage.
  2. Be provided with flood openings that meet the following criteria and are installed in accordance with Section R322.2.2.1:
    1. 2.1. The total net area of non-engineered openings shall be not less than 1 square inch (645 mm2) for each square foot (0.093 m2) of enclosed area where the enclosed area is measured on the exterior of the enclosure walls, or the openings shall be designed as engineered openings and the construction documents shall include a statement by a registered design professional that the design of the openings will provide for equalization of hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters as specified in Section 2.7.2.2 of ASCE 24.
    2. 2.2. Openings shall be not less than 3 inches (76 mm) in any direction in the plane of the wall.
    3. 2.3. The presence of louvers, blades, screens and faceplates or other covers and devices shall allow the automatic flow of floodwater into and out of the enclosed areas and shall be accounted for in the determination of the net open area.

R322.2.2.1 Installation of Openings

The walls of enclosed areas shall have openings installed such that:
  1. There shall be not less than two openings on different sides of each enclosed area; if a building has more than one enclosed area below the design flood elevation, each area shall have openings.
  2. The bottom of each opening shall be not more than 1 foot (305 mm) above the higher of the final interior grade or floor and the finished exterior grade immediately under each opening.
  3. Openings shall be permitted to be installed in doors and windows; doors and windows without installed openings do not meet the requirements of this section.

R322.2.3 Foundation Design and Construction

Foundation walls for buildings and structures erected in flood hazard areas shall meet the requirements of Chapter 4.
Exception: Unless designed in accordance with Section R404:
  1. The unsupported height of 6-inch (152 mm) plain masonry walls shall be not more than 3 feet (914 mm).
  2. The unsupported height of 8-inch (203 mm) plain masonry walls shall be not more than 4 feet (1219 mm).
  3. The unsupported height of 8-inch (203 mm) reinforced masonry walls shall be not more than 8 feet (2438 mm).
For the purpose of this exception, unsupported height is the distance from the finished grade of the under-floor space to the top of the wall.

R322.2.4 Tanks

ILLUSTRATION
Underground tanks shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse and lateral movement under conditions of the base flood. Above-ground tanks shall be installed at or above the elevation required in Section R322.2.1 or shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse and lateral movement under conditions of the base flood.

R322.2.5 Pools in Flood Hazard Areas

Pools that are located in flood hazard areas established by Table R301.2(1), including above-ground pools, on-ground pools, and in-ground pools that involve placement of fill, shall comply with Section R322.2.5.1 or R322.2.5.2.
Exception: Pools located in riverine flood hazard areas which are outside of designated floodways.

R322.2.5.1 Pools Located in Designated Floodways

Where pools are located in designated floodways, documentation shall be submitted to the building official, which demonstrates that the construction of the pool will not increase the design flood elevation at any point within the jurisdiction.

R322.2.5.2 Pools Located Where Floodways Have Not Been Designated

Where pools are located in riverine flood hazard areas where design flood elevations are specified but floodways have not been designated, the applicant shall provide a floodway analysis that demonstrates that the proposed pool will not increase the design flood elevation more than 1 foot (305 mm) at any point within the jurisdiction.

R322.3 Coastal High-Hazard Areas (Including V Zones and Coastal A Zones, Where Designated)

Areas that have been determined to be subject to wave heights in excess of 3 feet (914 mm) or subject to high-velocity wave action or wave-induced erosion shall be designated as coastal high-hazard areas. Flood hazard areas that have been designated as subject to wave heights between 11/2 feet (457 mm) and 3 feet (914 mm) or otherwise designated by the jurisdiction shall be designated as Coastal A Zones. Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in coastal high-hazard areas and coastal A Zones, where designated, shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections R322.3.1 through R322.3.7.

R322.3.1 Location and Site Preparation

  1. New buildings and buildings that are determined to be substantially improved pursuant to the Florida Building Code, Existing Building shall be located landward of the reach of mean high tide.
  2. For any alteration of sand dunes and mangrove stands, the building official shall require submission of an engineering analysis that demonstrates that the proposed alteration will not increase the potential for flood damage.

R322.3.2 Elevation Requirements

  1. Buildings and structures erected within coastal highhazard areas and Coastal A Zones, shall be elevated so that the bottom of the lowest horizontal structural members supporting the lowest floor, with the exception of piling, pile caps, columns, grade beams and bracing, is elevated to or above the base flood elevation plus 1 foot (305 mm) or the design flood elevation, whichever is higher.
  2. Basement floors that are below grade on all sides are prohibited.
  3. The use of fill for structural support is prohibited.
  4. Minor grading, and the placement of minor quantities of fill, shall be permitted for landscaping and for drainage purposes under and around buildings and for support of parking slabs, pool decks, patios and walkways.
  5. Walls and partitions enclosing areas below the design flood elevation shall meet the requirements of Sections R322.3.4 and R322.3.5.

R322.3.3 Foundations

Buildings and structures erected in coastal high-hazard areas and Coastal A Zones shall be supported on pilings or columns and shall be adequately anchored to such pilings or columns. The space below the elevated building shall be either free of obstruction or, if enclosed with walls, the walls shall meet the requirements of Section R322.3.4. Pilings shall have adequate soil penetrations to resist the combined wave and wind loads (lateral and uplift). Water-loading values used shall be those associated with the design flood. Wind-loading values shall be those required by this code. Pile embedment shall include consideration of decreased resistance capacity caused by scour of soil strata surrounding the piling. Pile systems design and installation shall be certified in accordance with Section R322.3.6. Spread footing, mat, raft or other foundations that support columns shall not be permitted where soil investigations that are required in accordance with Section R401.4 indicate that soil material under the spread footing, mat, raft or other foundation is subject to scour or erosion from wave-velocity flow conditions. If permitted, spread footing, mat, raft or other foundations that support columns shall be designed in accordance with ASCE 24. Slabs, pools, pool decks and walkways shall be located and constructed to be structurally independent of buildings and structures and their foundations to prevent transfer of flood loads to the buildings and structures during conditions of flooding, scour or erosion from wave-velocity flow conditions, unless the buildings and structures and their foundations are designed to resist the additional flood load.
Exception: In Coastal A Zones, stem wall foundations supporting a floor system above and backfilled with soil or gravel to the underside of the floor system shall be permitted provided the foundations are designed to account for wave action, debris impact, erosion and local scour. Where soils are susceptible to erosion and local scour, stem wall foundations shall have deep footings to account for the loss of soil.

R322.3.3.1 Pools

Pools in coastal high-hazard areas shall be designed and constructed in conformance with ASCE 24.

R322.3.4 Walls Below Design Flood Elevation

Walls and partitions are permitted below the elevated floor, provided that such walls and partitions are not part of the structural support of the building or structure and:
  1. Electrical, mechanical and plumbing system components are not to be mounted on or penetrate through walls that are designed to break away under flood loads; and
  2. Are constructed with insect screening or open lattice; or
  3. Are designed to break away or collapse without causing collapse, displacement or other structural damage to the elevated portion of the building or supporting foundation system. Such walls, framing and connections shall have a resistance of not less than 10 (479 Pa) and no more than 20 pounds per square foot (958 Pa) as determined using allowable stress design; or
  4. Where wind loading values of this code exceed 20 pounds per square foot (958 Pa), as determined using allowable stress design, the construction documents shall include documentation prepared and sealed by a registered design professional that:
    1. 4.1. The walls and partitions below the design flood elevation have been designed to collapse from a water load less than that which would occur during the base flood.
    2. 4.2. The elevated portion of the building and supporting foundation system have been designed to withstand the effects of wind and flood loads acting simultaneously on structural and nonstructural building components. Water-loading values used shall be those associated with the design flood. Wind-loading values shall be those required by this code.
  5. Walls intended to break away under flood loads as specified in Item 3 or 4 have flood openings that meet the criteria in Section R322.2.2, Item 2.

R322.3.5 Enclosed Areas Below Design Flood Elevation

Enclosed areas below the design flood elevation shall be used solely for parking of vehicles, building access or storage.

R322.3.5.1 Protection of Building Envelope

An exterior door that meets the requirements of Section R609 shall be installed at the top of stairs that provide access to the building and that are enclosed with walls designed to break away in accordance with Section R322.3.4.

R322.3.6 Construction Documents

The construction documents shall include documentation that is prepared and sealed by a registered design professional that the design and methods of construction to be used meet the applicable criteria of this section.

R322.3.7 Tanks

ILLUSTRATION
Underground tanks shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse and lateral movement under conditions of the base flood. Above-ground tanks shall be installed at or above the elevation required in Section R322.3.2. Where elevated on platforms, the platforms shall be cantilevered from or knee braced to the building or shall be supported on foundations that conform to the requirements of Section R322.3.

Section R323 Storm Shelters

R323.1 General

This section applies to storm shelters where constructed as separate detached buildings or where constructed as safe rooms within buildings for the purpose of providing refuge from storms that produce high winds, such as tornados and hurricanes. In addition to other applicable requirements in this code, storm shelters shall be constructed in accordance with ICC/NSSA-500.

Section R325 Mezzanines

R325.1 General

Mezzanines shall comply with Section R325.

R325.2 Mezzanines

The clear height above and below mezzanine floor construction shall be not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).

R325.3 Area Limitation

The aggregate area of a mezzanine or mezzanines shall be not greater than one-third of the floor area of the room or space in which they are located. The enclosed portion of a room shall not be in