Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1744  NFPA 96 -17, Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire 
Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations  
NFPA 110 -13, Standard for Emergency and Standby 
Power Systems  
NFPA 111 -13, Standard on Stored Electrical Energy 
Emergency and Standby Power Systems  
NFPA 21 1-13, Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents 
and Solid Fuel -Burning Appliances  
NFPA 286 -15, Standard Methods of Fire Tests for 
Evaluating Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior 
Finish to Room Fire Growth  
NFPA 303 -11, Fire Protection Standard for Mar inas and 
Boatyards  ]  
NFPA 495-10 495-13, Explosives Materials Code  
NFPA 701 -10, Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame - 
Propagation of Textiles and Films  
[ NFPA 720 -15, Standard for the Installation of Carbon 
Monoxide (CO) Detection and Warning Equip ment  ]  
NFPA 1123 -10 1123 -14, Code for Fireworks Display  
NFPA 1124 -06, Code for the Manufacture, Transportation, 
Storage, and Retail Sales of Fireworks and Pyrotechnic 
Articles  
NFPA 1126 -11, Standard for the Use of Pyrotechnics 
Before a Proximate Audienc e  
[ NFPA 2001 -15. Standard on Clean Agent Fire 
Extinguishing Systems  ]  
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, 
Northbrook, IL 60062 ( http://www.ul.com/ ):  
[ UL 80 -07, Steel Tanks for Oil -Burner Fuels and Ot her 
Combustible Liquids -with revisions through August 2009  ]  
UL 87A -12, Outline of Investigation for Power -Operated 
Dispensing Devices for Gasoline and Gasoline/ethanol 
Blends with Nominal Ethanol Concentrations up to 85 
Percent  
[ UL 142 -06, Steel Aboveground Tanks for Flammable and 
Combustible Liquids -with revisions through February 12, 
2010  
UL 217 -06, Single and Multiple Station Smoke Alarms -
with revisions through April 2012  
UL 710B -2011, Recirculating Systems  
UL 790 -04, Standa rd Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof 
Coverings -with revisions through October 2008  ]  
UL 1278 –00, Standard for Movable and Wall - or Ceiling -
Hung Electric Room Heaters, Third Edition, June 21, 2000  [ UL 1315 -95, Standard for Safety for Metal Waste Paper 
Containers -with revisions through September 2012  ]  
UL 1805 -2002, Standard for Laboratory Hoods and 
Cabinets  
VA.R. Doc. No. R16 -4665; Filed April 9, 2018, 1:25 p.m.  
Final Regulation  
REGISTRAR'S NOTICE:  The Board of Housing and 
Community Development is cl aiming an exemption from 
Article 2 of the Administrative Process Act pursuant to §  2.2-
4006 A 12 of the Code of Virginia, which excludes 
regulations adopted by the Board of Housing and Community 
Development pursuant to the Statewide Fire Prevention Code 
(§ 27-94 et seq.), the Industrialized Building Safety Law 
(§ 36-70 et seq.), the Uniform Statewide Building Code 
(§ 36-97 et seq.), and §  36-98.3 of the Code of Virginia, 
provided the board (i) provides a Notice of Intended 
Regulatory Action in conformance w ith the provisions of 
§ 2.2-4007.01, (ii) publishes the proposed regulation and 
provides an opportunity for oral and written comments as 
provided in §  2.2-4007.03, and (iii) conducts at least one 
public hearing as provided in §  § 2.2-4009 and 36 -100 prior 
to the publishing of the proposed regulations.  
Title of Regulation:  13VAC5 -63. Virginia Uniform 
Statewide Building Code  (amending 13VAC5 -63-10, 
13VAC5 -63-20, 13VAC5 -63-30, 13VA C5-63-40, 13VAC5 -
63-50, 13VAC5 -63-70, 13VAC5 -63-80, 13VAC5 -63-130, 
13VAC5 -63-150, 13VAC5 -63-170, 13VAC5 -63-190, 
13VAC5 -63-200, 13VAC5 -63-210, 13VAC5 -63-220, 
13VAC5 -63-230, 13VAC5 -63-235, 13VAC5 -63-240, 
13VAC5 -63-245, 13VAC5 -63-250, 13VAC5 -63-260, 
13VAC5 -63-264, 13VAC5 -63-270, 13VAC5 -63-280, 
13VAC5 -63-290, 13VAC5 -63-295, 13VAC5 -63-298, 
13VAC5 -63-300, 13VAC5 -63-310, 13VAC5 -63-320, 
13VAC5 -63-330, 13VAC5 -63-336, 13VAC5 -63-360, 
13VAC5 -63-370, 13VAC5 -63-400, 13VAC5 -63-410, 
13VAC5 -63-420, 13VAC5 -63-430, 13VAC5 -63-434, 
13VAC5 -63-438, 13VAC5 -63-440, 13VAC5 -63-443, 
13VAC5 -63-450, 13VAC5 -63-470, 13VAC5 -63-480, 
13VAC5 -63-490, 13VAC5 -63-500, 13VAC5 -63-510, 
13VAC5 -63-520, 13VAC5 -63-530, 13VAC5 -63-540; 
adding 13VAC5 -63-268, 13VAC5 -63-431, 13VAC5 -63-
432.5, 13VAC5 -63-433, 13 VAC5 -63-433.3, 13VAC5 -63-
433.5, 13VAC5 -63-434.5, 13VAC5 -63-435, 13VAC5 -63-
435.5, 13VAC5 -63-439, 13VAC5 -63-441, 13VAC5 -63-485, 
13VAC5 -63-524, 13VAC5 -63-545, 13VAC5 -63-549; 
repealing 13VAC5 -63-225, 13VAC5 -63-350).  
Statutory Authority:  § 36-98 of the Code of  Virginia.  
Effective Date:  September 4, 2018.  
Agency Contact:  Elizabeth O. Rafferty, Policy and 
Legislative Director, Department of Housing and Community 
Development, Main Street Centre, 600 East Main Street, Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1745 Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23219, telephone (804)  371-7011, 
FAX (804) 371 -7090, TTY (804) 371 -7089, or email 
elizabeth.rafferty@dhcd.virginia.gov.  
Summary:  
This regulatory action incorporates the newest editions of 
the model codes, produced by the International Code 
Council and other standard -writing gro ups, into the 
Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. The 
substantive changes to the Uniform Statewide Building 
Code (USBC) in this regulatory action are summarized as 
follows:  
13VAC5 -63-10 A and B: Updates the incorporation by 
reference to the latest ICC International Codes and 
standards.  
13VAC5 -63-20: Clarification of the exemption in the 
USBC for public utilities to include wiring and equipment 
of telecommunication (cellular telephone) companies. In 
addition, a new exemption for conveyor systems is a dded in 
subdivision D 3, as such equipment is not part of a 
building and therefore not within the scope of the USBC. 
In subdivision D 6 language is added to clarify that the 
demolition of manufactured homes or industrialized 
buildings is subject to the USB C. The prior edition of the 
code did not have explicit language addressing this, but 
demolition is a form of construction, so it did fall within 
the scope of the code.  
13VAC5 -63-30 D: Establishes a new provision for existing 
college research laboratories t o permit compliance with 
special provisions in Part II of the USBC (the Virginia 
Existing Building Code; formerly the Virginia 
Rehabilitation Code) when utilizing new or differing 
amount of certain hazardous materials. The new provision 
is part of comprehe nsive changes to the USBC and the 
Statewide Fire Prevention Code (13VAC5 -51) (SFPC) 
developed by an ad hoc committee of affected parties and 
representatives of educational research laboratories. The 
language is based on actions approved at the ICC hearings  
for the 2018 editions of the International Codes with 
conditions specific to Virginia institutions considered in 
the final language.  
13VAC5 -63-50 E and I: The Virginia Certification 
Standards (13VAC5 -21) (VCS), also under the authority of 
the BHCD, were a mended in September of 2014 to include 
requirements for continuing education and periodic 
training for all inspector certificates issued by the BHCD. 
Formerly the requirements were in the USBC, SFPC, and 
Virginia Amusement Device Regulations. Now that the 
VCS contains those requirements, duplicate requirements 
in the USBC are no longer necessary and are therefore 
being deleted.  
13VAC5 -63-80 B 16: A new permit exemption is added for 
work on billboards necessary to comply with federal guidelines of the Occupa tional Safety and Health 
Administration that is necessary so that sign companies 
are not subject to varying requirements from jurisdiction 
to jurisdiction, and safeguards are in place through the 
federal requirements to assure safe installations without 
the necessity for a USBC permit.  
13VAC5 -63-210 C: A new provision is added to address 
day treatment facilities licensed by the Virginia 
Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental 
Services to clarify that buildings used for such purposes 
must have spri nkler systems if located above the second 
story. This is necessary due to the inability of the 
occupants of the treatment facilities to be able to exit 
quickly if an emergency exists. Many occupants need 
assistance in evacuating due to physical or mental 
limitations; therefore, in sprinklered buildings, the 
occupants could be moved to protected areas on the floor 
they are on without the spread of fire to those areas since 
the fire would be suppressed by the sprinkler system.  
13VAC5 -63-210 D: An allowance is  added for alcohol to 
be stored in wooden barrels or casks without complying 
with the hazardous material provisions of the code. The 
language was in the International Fire Code, but not in the 
International Building Code, as those codes are developed 
indep endently in the ICC code development process. The 
language is necessary to assure all breweries and 
producers of distilled spirits and wines are subject to 
consistent requirements and is based on the fact that there 
is no evidence that storage in wooden ba rrels or casks is a 
potential fire hazard necessitating the requirements of the 
code used for explosives, fireworks, flammable gases such 
as liquefied petroleum gas, and gasoline and diesel fuels to 
be applicable.  
13VAC5 -63-210 T 4: Adds a new exception 7 to the 
requirements of the International Residential Code (IRC) 
for separation of dwellings from lot lines to recognize 
zoning ordinances that require setbacks to prevent houses 
on adjacent lots from being within 10 feet of each other. 
This allows flexibil ity in the clustering of homes for zoning 
purposes and accomplishes the building code objective of 
maintaining fire separation distances between dwellings. 
The IRC requires any building wall within five feet of a 
property line to be of fire -rated construct ion without this 
exception.  
13VAC5 -63-210 T 37 and T 38: Relocates the interior 
passageway requirements for new homes (former 
subdivision T 14) and clarifies the text. Removes difficult to 
apply language involving doors at the end of a hallway. 
The overall  goal of the provision is to provide doors for 
wheelchair users on the main level of new dwellings.  
13VAC5 -63-210 T 45 and T 46: Adds tables permitting the 
use of No. 2 (quality) southern yellow pine (wood) of 
appropriate spans to be used in the framing of  homes. The Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1746  tables in the existing regulation (2012 edition) 
inadvertently omitted spans for No. 2 pine and only 
permitted No. 1 quality, which is not readily available by 
wood distributors.  
13VAC5 -63-210 T 61: Deletes former subdivision T 94 
that required  only 50% of new lamps (light bulbs) to be 
high efficacy (efficiency) bulbs. This deletion will allow the 
provisions of the IRC to be applicable, which require 75% 
of new bulbs to be high efficiency.  
13VAC5 -63-210 T 69: Adds new provisions to permit the 
use of a corrugated gas tubing with coatings to prevent 
lightning arcs from causing holes in the tubing. The 
product has undergone the approval process through the 
National Fuel Gas Code and the American National 
Standards Institute standard writing process.  
13VAC5 -63-210 T 74: From a proposal submitted by the 
Virginia State Corporation Commission, a new provision 
is added to require a tracer wire to be installed in the ditch 
with nonmetallic water service piping to new homes. This 
will enable other utilities  to locate the water service line 
when installing additional underground lines and prevent 
the possible inadvertent rupturing of the water service line. 
There was a case where a gas line crossed a water service 
line that was not pressurized yet and gas tra veled up the 
water service line and caused an explosion in the house it 
served. Tracer wire is already required by the USBC for 
nonmetallic sewer lines.  
13VAC5 -63-220 X and Y: Establishes a new provision for 
new college research laboratories to utilize cer tain 
hazardous materials inherent in operations without having 
to fully comply with the hazardous material provisions of 
the code as the use of such materials is in limited quantity. 
The new provision is part of comprehensive changes to the 
USBC and the St atewide Fire Prevention Code (13VAC5 -
51) (SFPC) developed by an ad hoc committee of affected 
parties and representatives of educational research 
laboratories. The language is based on actions approved 
at the ICC hearings for the 2018 editions of the 
Intern ational Codes with conditions specific to Virginia 
institutions considered in the final language.  
13VAC5 -63-230 E: Reestablishes exceptions for when 
smoke and fire dampers are required in shaft enclosures 
for heating, ventilating and air -conditioning duct systems. 
The exceptions were in the 2009 edition of the USBC and 
were deleted in the 2012 edition based on wording in the 
2012 International Building Code (IBC); however, since 
the wording in the 2012 IBC differed slightly from the 
2009 USBC language, the 2009 exceptions are being 
reinserted.  
13VAC5 -63-245 L and Q: Adds language in the IBC that is 
consistent with the IRC stairway landing requirements 
when dwelling units are being designed under the IBC, such as four -story townhomes that are outside of the s cope 
of the IRC. The same hazards exist for dwellings, whether 
constructed under the IBC or the IRC.  
13VAC5 -63-264 A 13: Deletes former subdivision A 21 
that required only 50% of new lamps (light bulbs) to be 
high efficacy (efficiency) bulbs in buildings s ubject to the 
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). This 
deletion will allow the provisions of the 2015 IECC to be 
applicable, which require 75% of new bulbs to be high 
efficiency.  
13VAC5 -63-295 B and C: Adds tables permitting the use of 
No. 2 (qu ality) southern yellow pine (wood) of appropriate 
spans to be used in the framing of dwellings constructed 
under the IBC. The tables in the existing regulation (2012 
edition) inadvertently omitted spans for No. 2 pine and 
only permitted No. 1 quality, whic h is not readily available 
by wood distributors.  
13VAC5 -63-310 D 1, D 7, and D 8: Add requirements for 
pollution control units where such systems are voluntarily 
installed. The use of these systems to control pollutants in 
grease ducts in restaurants and o ther facilities having 
grease ducts has become more prevalent, and this 
language was approved for the 2018 International 
Mechanical Code (IMC) at the ICC process in time for 
implementing in it Virginia for the 2015 USBC.  
13VAC5 -63-310 D 9: Reestablishes ex ceptions for when 
smoke and fire dampers are required in shaft enclosures 
for heating, ventilating, and air -conditioning duct systems. 
The exceptions were in the 2009 edition of the USBC (in 
both the IBC and the IMC) and were deleted in the 2012 
edition ba sed on wording in the 2012 IMC; however, since 
the wording in the 2012 IMC differed slightly from the 
2009 USBC language, the 2009 exceptions are being 
reinserted.  
13VAC5 -63-310 E 2 and E 5: Adds new sections to permit 
the use of a corrugated gas tubing wi th coatings to prevent 
lightning arcs from causing holes in the tubing in buildings 
subject to the IBC. The product has undergone the 
approval process through the National Fuel Gas Code and 
the American National Standards Institute standard 
writing process . 
13VAC5 -63-431 A, B, and C: Modifies the wording of the 
2015 edition of the ICC International Existing Building 
Code (IEBC) for use in Part II of the USBC, which governs 
alterations, additions, and change of occupancy of existing 
buildings. The new wordin g permits an additional 
compliance method for alterations and repairs based on 
the code in effect when the building was originally 
constructed.  
13VAC5 -63-431 D: Establishes the technical requirements 
for a new provision for existing college research 
labora tories when utilizing new or differing amount of Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1747 certain hazardous materials. The requirements are part of 
comprehensive changes to the USBC and SFPC developed 
by an ad hoc committee of affected parties and 
representatives of educational research laborator ies. The 
language is based on actions approved at the ICC hearings 
for the 2018 editions of the International Codes with 
conditions specific to Virginia institutions considered in 
the final language.  
13VAC5 -63-422 A, B, and C: Minor changes to the 2015 
IEBC to clarify the classifications of work that are covered 
under the Level Method of compliance in the IEBC and 
how the work area concept is to be applied. Clarifying 
language is also added for addressing buildings that have 
horizontal fire separation as on ly vertical fire separation 
was addressed.  
13VAC5 -63-433.5, 13VAC5 -63-434, 13VAC5 -63-434.5, 
13VAC5 -63-435, 13VAC5 -63-439, and 13VAC5 -63-440. 
Minor changes to the 2015 IEBC developed by an ad hoc 
group preparing a training module for the department's 
Jack A . Proctor Building Code Academy for Part II of the 
USBC. These changes clarify the requirements of the 
different compliance methods set out in the IEBC based on 
questions raised during the development of the training 
module.  
Changes since publication of th e proposed include:  
13VAC5 -63-20: Further clarifies language for power, 
wireless, and cable companies and adds an exemption for 
direct burial utility poles.  
13VAC5 -63-30 B: Provides that Part II of the Virginia 
Uniform Statewide Building Code shall be refe rred to as 
the "Virginia Existing Building Code" and shall apply to 
construction and rehabilitation activities in existing 
buildings and structures.  
13VAC5 -63-50 F and G: Clarifies that permit technicians 
are technical assistants and therefore they require  the 
same certification mandates as other technical assistants 
and grandfathers any permit technician prior to the 
effective date of this regulation.  
13VAC5 -63-80 B: Adds a permit exemption to allow local 
jurisdictions to require a permit for exempted item s located 
in a special flood hazard area and increases the maximum 
amount of roof decking replacement that can be done 
before a building permit is required, from 100 square feet 
to 256 square feet.  
13VAC5 -63-130 G and K: Adds the requirement for 
inspection s for any fuel -burning appliances or equipment 
being replaced in existing single -family dwellings to 
ensure proper sizing of vent or chimney systems and to 
ensure that vents and chimneys are free from blockage, 
defects, or deterioration and are in operable  condition. 
Allows inspection by others but requires certification to the building official that the requirements have been met. 
Subsection K provides that a licensed mechanical 
contractor may perform duct testing required by section 
R403.3.3 of the Intern ational Energy Conservation Code 
(IECC) or Section N1103.3.3 of the International 
Residential Code (IRC).  
13VAC5 -63-150 B: Provides a requirement that a notice of 
violation must specify a reasonable time period within 
which the corrections or compliance mu st occur and 
further clarifies that unsafe buildings, or structures that 
become unsafe during the construction process, follow a 
separate path of abatement under Section 118.  
13VAC5 -63-190 G: Changes the requirement for a 
decision by the local board of bui lding code appeals to be 
a written decision as opposed to a resolution and adds that 
the decision shall be explained in writing. Throughout the 
appeals section replaces "resolution" with the term 
"written decision."  
13VAC5 -63-200 A and B: Adds permit tech nicians to the 
definition of "technical assistant" and changes the 
definition of "change of occupancy" to read "See section 
202 of the VEBC" for the purpose of ensuring the term is 
used consistently throughout the USBC.  
13VAC5 -63-210 T (Changes to the IRC) :  
Subdivision T 12 clarifies that hazardous locations for 
glazing are less than 60 inches measured horizontally in a 
straight line from the water's edge and the bottom exposed 
edge of the glazing where it is less than 60 inches 
measured vertically above any standing or walking 
surface.  
Subdivision T 29 adds language to clarify that a swimming 
pool barrier can be located on the property line and 
providing a prohibition for pool equipment, such as 
pumps, filters, and heaters, to be within three feet of the 
exterior of the barrier when located on the same property.  
Subdivision T 44 clarifies that the intent of openings to an 
underfloor space is to provide cross ventilation, and when 
cross ventilation has been provided, openings are not 
required to be within thr ee feet of each corner.  
Subdivision T 51 provides requirements for braced wall 
panel support.  
Subdivision T 53 reformats the roof construction section.  
Subdivision T 60 clarifies that the REScheck compliance 
software developed by the U.S. Department of Energy shall 
be an acceptable method of determining energy code 
compliance.  
Subdivision T 68 eliminates the visual inspection option for 
duct testing and requires a pressure test to be conducted 
and the results forwarded to the code official.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1748  Subdivision  T 70 provides an energy compliance 
alternative using the ERI index and provides for trade -offs 
when using renewable energy sources. 1  
3VAC5 -63-230 F: Adds a requirement for HVAC system 
shutdown by one of three different methods: a duct 
detector installed in the return duct, an area smoked 
detector interlocked with the HVAC equipment, or a listed 
heat sensor installed in the return duct.  
13VAC5 -63-240:  
Subsection I increases the number of sprinkler heads 
permitted on a limited area sprinkler system from si x to 20.  
Subsection L eliminates a Virginia amendment on 
standpipes, incorporates new language for the existing 
pressure exemption for buildings up to 150 feet, alleviates 
the need for the exception regarding residual pressure, and 
eliminates the potentia l issue of pressure being waived but 
not volume.  
Subsection T requires fire department connections to be 
unobstructed by fences, bushes, trees, walls, or any other 
fixed or moveable objects.  
13VAC5 -63-245:  
Subsection R eliminates the requirement for ladders in 
limited areas to be constructed in accordance with the 
International Mechanical Code (IMC). This was removed 
due to technically infeasible and conflicting language.  
Subsection W provides an exception to allow structural 
members supporting a roof to be penetration rated stair 
enclosures under certain conditions.  
Subsection AA adds the use group R -4 to the list of use 
groups required to provide emergency escape and rescue 
openings.  
13VAC5 -63-264. (Chang es to the IECC):  
Subdivisions 1, 2, and 3 keep the current energy efficiency 
requirements related to projection factor and simple solar 
heat gain coefficient of windows. Adoption of the 2015 
model code without amending this section would result in 
lower e nergy efficiency.  
Subdivision 5 requires mechanical ventilation to be 
provided for Group R (residential) occupancies 
constructed under the IBC to ensure minimum acceptable 
indoor air quality in dwellings that have limited air 
infiltration as a result of m eeting minimum energy 
efficiency requirements.  
Subdivision 7 clarifies that the REScheck compliance 
software developed by the U.S. Department of Energy shall 
be an acceptable method of determining energy code 
compliance.  Subdivision 15 eliminates the vis ual inspection option for 
duct testing and requires a pressure test to be conducted 
and the results forwarded to the code official.  
Subdivision 17 provides an energy compliance alternative 
using the ERI index and for trade -offs when using 
renewable energy  sources and deletes a state amendment 
that established a fixed 15% fenestration area when 
utilizing the performance path method of energy efficiency 
compliance of the IECC for residential structures.  
13VAC5 -63-280 D: Eliminates the need to determine 
wheth er professional design is required as the basis for 
determining when special inspections are required for a 
project and, instead bases the threshold on size and height 
of the proposed structure.  
13VAC5 -63-298: Exempts one story buildings that have 
noncombu stible exterior wall covering from complying 
with National Fire Protection Association 285 testing.  
13VAC5 -63-310 D 2 and D 4: Add minimum mechanical 
ventilation requirements for dwelling units in the IMC to 
ensure minimum acceptable indoor air quality in dwellings 
that have limited air infiltration as a result of meeting 
minimum energy efficiency requirements.  
13VAC5 -63-320 B 16, B 17, B 18, and B 19: Keep the 
current IPC storm drain sizing tables.  
13VAC5 -63-400 through 13VAC5 -63-443: Extensively 
rearrange  and consolidate the Virginia Rehabilitation 
Code to become the Virginia Existing Building Code 
(VEBC), provide clarification on how to apply the VEBC, 
and simplify scoping.  
13VAC5 -63-470 E: Clarifies who is responsible for the 
maintenance of a building, s tructure, system, facility, and 
associated equipment.  
13VAC5 -63-480 U: Requires manufactured home park 
tenants to be notified if a notice of violation is issued to an 
owner for violations that jeopardize park tenants' health or 
safety.  
13VAC5 -63-490: Creates a new section related to 
violations of the Virginia Maintenance Code and clarifies 
that violating the code is unlawful.  
13VAC5 -63-510 C: Adds definitions for applicable 
building code and maintains consistency with other codes.  
13VAC5 -63-530 D 7: Re quires maintenance of nonpotable 
water reuse systems and provides provisions for safely 
abandoning a system that is no longer in use.  
13VAC5 -63-540 B 17: Clarifies that the owner has three 
options for displaying the elevator, escalator, or 
dumbwaiter certi ficate of inspection.  
  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1749 Part I  
Construction  
13VAC5 -63-10. Chapter 1 Administration; Section 101 
General.  
A. Section 101.1 Short title. The Virginia Uniform 
Statewide Building Code, Part I, Construction, may be cited 
as the Virginia Construction Code or as the VCC. The term 
"USBC" shall mean the VCC unless the context in which the 
term is used clearly indicates it to be an abbreviation for the 
entire Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code or for a 
different part of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Buildin g 
Code.  
Note: This code is also known as the 2012  2015  edition of 
the USBC due to the use of the 2012  2015  editions of the 
model codes.  
B. Section 101.2 Incorporation by reference. Chapters 2 - 35 
of the 2012  2015  International Building Code, published by 
the International Code Council, Inc., are adopted and 
incorporated by reference to be an enforceable part of the 
USBC. The term "IBC" means the 2012  2015  International 
Building Code, published by the International Code Council, 
Inc. Any codes and standards  referenced in the IBC are also 
considered to be part of the incorporation by reference, except 
that such codes and standards are used only to the prescribed 
extent of each such reference. In addition, any provisions of 
the appendices of the IBC specifical ly identified to be part of 
the USBC are also considered to be part of the incorporation 
by reference.  
Note 1: The IBC references other International Codes and 
standards including the following major codes:  
2012  2015  International Plumbing Code (IPC)  
2012 2015  International Mechanical Code (IMC)  
2011  2014  NFPA 70  
2012  2015  International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)  
2012  2015  International Energy Conservation Code 
(IECC)  
2012  2015  International Residential Code (IRC)  
Note 2: The IRC is applicable to the const ruction of 
detached one -family  and two -family dwellings and 
townhouses as set out in Section 310.  
C. Section 101.3 Numbering system. A dual numbering 
system is used in the USBC to correlate the numbering 
system of the Virginia Administrative Code with the  
numbering system of the IBC. IBC numbering system 
designations are provided in the catchlines of the Virginia 
Administrative Code sections. Cross references between 
sections or chapters of the USBC use only the IBC numbering 
system designations. The term "chapter" is used in the context 
of the numbering system of the IBC and may mean a chapter in the USBC, a chapter in the IBC or a chapter in a referenced 
code or standard, depending on the context of the use of the 
term. The term "chapter" is not used to d esignate a chapter of 
the Virginia Administrative Code, unless clearly indicated.  
D. Section 101.4 Arrangement of code provisions. The 
USBC is comprised of the combination of (i) the provisions 
of Chapter 1, Administration, which are established herein, 
(ii) Chapters 2 - 35 of the IBC, which are incorporated by 
reference in Section 101.2, and (iii) the changes to the text of 
the incorporated chapters of the IBC that are specifically 
identified. The terminology "changes to the text of the 
incorporated chapt ers of the IBC that are specifically 
identified" shall also be referred to as the "state amendments 
to the IBC." Such state amendments to the IBC are set out 
using corresponding chapter and section numbers of the IBC 
numbering system. In addition, since Ch apter 1 of the IBC is 
not incorporated as part of the USBC, any reference to a 
provision of Chapter 1 of the IBC in the provisions of 
Chapters 2 - 35 of the IBC is generally invalid. However, 
where the purpose of such a reference would clearly 
correspond t o a provision of Chapter 1 established herein, 
then the reference may be construed to be a valid reference to 
such corresponding Chapter 1 provision.  
E. Section 101.5 Use of terminology and notes. The 
provisions of this code shall be used as follows:  
1. The term "this code," or "the code," where used in the 
provisions of Chapter 1, in Chapters 2 - 35 of the IBC or in 
the state amendments to the IBC means the USBC, unless 
the context clearly indicates otherwise.  
2. The term "this code" or "the code" where used in a code 
or standard referenced in the IBC means that code or 
standard, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.  
3. The use of notes in Chapter 1 is to provide information 
only and shall not be construed as changing the meaning of 
any code pr ovision.  
4. Notes in the IBC, in the codes and standards referenced 
in the IBC and in the state amendments to the IBC may 
modify the content of a related provision and shall be 
considered to be a valid part of the provision, unless the 
context clearly indicates other wise.  
F. Section 101.6 Order of precedence. The provisions of this 
code shall be used as follows:  
1. The provisions of Chapter 1 of this code supersede any 
provisions of Chapters 2 - 35 of the IBC that address the 
same subject matter and impose differing requirements.  
2. The provisions of Chapter 1 of this code supersede any 
provisions of the codes an d standards referenced in the 
IBC that address the same subject matter and impose 
differing requirements.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1750  3. The state amendments to the IBC supersede any 
provisions of Chapters 2 - 35 of the IBC that address the 
same subject matter and impose differing r equirements.  
4. The state amendments to the IBC supersede any 
provisions of the codes and standards referenced in the 
IBC that address the same subject matter and impose 
differing requirements.  
5. The provisions of Chapters 2 - 35 of the IBC supersede 
any provisions of the codes and standards referenced in the 
IBC that address the same subject matter and impose 
differing requirements.  
G. Section 101.7 Administrative provisions. The provisions 
of Chapter 1 establish administrative requirements, which 
include but are not limited to provisions relating to the scope 
of the code, enforcement, fees, permits, inspections and 
disputes. Any provisions of Chapters 2 - 35 of the IBC or any 
provisions of the codes and standards referenced in the IBC 
that address the same subject matter and impose differing 
requirements are deleted and replaced by the provisions of 
Chapter 1. Further, any administrative requirements contained 
in the state amendments to the IBC shall be given the same 
precedence as the provisions of Cha pter 1. Notwithstanding 
the above, where administrative requirements of Chapters 2 - 
35 of the IBC or of the codes and standards referenced in the 
IBC are specifically identified as valid administrative 
requirements in Chapter 1 of this code or in the stat e 
amendments to the IBC, then such requirements are not 
deleted and replaced.  
Note: The purpose of this provision is to eliminate overlap, 
conflicts and duplication by providing a single standard for 
administrative, procedural and enforcement requirements  of 
this code.  
H. Section 101.8 Definitions. The definitions of terms used 
in this code are contained in Chapter 2 along with specific 
provisions addressing the use of definitions. Terms may be 
defined in other chapters or provisions of the code and such 
definitions are also valid.  
Note: The order of precedence outlined in Section 101.6 
may be determinative in establishing how to apply the 
definitions in the IBC and in the referenced codes and 
standards.  
13VAC5 -63-20. Section 102 Purpose and scope.  
A. Section 102.1 Purpose. In accordance with § 36 -99 of the 
Code of Virginia, the purpose of the USBC is to protect the 
health, safety and welfare of the residents of the 
Commonwealth of Virginia, provided that buildings and 
structures should be permitted to b e constructed at the least 
possible cost consistent with recognized standards of health, 
safety, energy conservation and water conservation, including 
provisions necessary to prevent overcrowding, rodent or insect infestation, and garbage accumulation; and  barrier -free 
provisions for the physically handicapped and aged.  
B. Section 102.2 Scope. This section establishes the scope of 
the USBC in accordance with §  36-98 of the Code of 
Virginia. The USBC shall supersede the building codes and 
regulations of the  counties, municipalities and other political 
subdivisions and state agencies. This code also shall 
supersede the provisions of local ordinances applicable to 
single -family residential construction that (i) regulate 
dwelling foundations or crawl spaces, (i i) require the use of 
specific building materials or finishes in construction, or (iii) 
require minimum surface area or numbers of windows; 
however, this code shall not supersede proffered conditions 
accepted as a part of a rezoning application, conditions  
imposed upon the grant of special exceptions, special or 
conditional use permits or variances, conditions imposed 
upon a clustering of single -family homes and preservation of 
open space development through standards, conditions, and 
criteria established b y a locality pursuant to subdivision 8 of § 
15.2-2242 of the Code of Virginia or subdivision A 12 of § 
15.2-2286  § 15.2 -2286.1  of the Code of Virginia, or land use 
requirements in airport or highway overlay districts, or 
historic districts created pursuant  to § 15.2 -2306 of the Code 
of Virginia, or local flood plain regulations adopted as a 
condition of participation in the National Flood Insurance 
Program.  
Note: Requirements relating to functional design are 
contained in Section 103.10 of this code.  
C. S ection 102.2.1 Invalidity of provisions. To the extent 
that any provisions of this code are in conflict with Chapter 6 
(§ 36 -97 et seq.) of Title 36 of the Code of Virginia or in 
conflict with the scope of the USBC, those provisions are 
considered to be in valid to the extent of such conflict.  
D. Section 102.3 Exemptions. The following are exempt 
from this code:  
1. Equipment [  , ] related  [ and ] wiring [  , and  ] poles and 
towers  [ supporting  ] the related  [ structures  ] used for 
providing  [ wired  ] utilit y, [ telecommunications  
communications  ], information,  [ or ] cable television  [ , 
broadcast or radio  ] service in accordance with all of the 
following conditions:   
[ 1.1. The equipment,  wiring  ] installed  [ , and supporting 
structures are owned and contro lled by a provider of 
publicly regulated utility service or a franchised cable 
television operator  ] and electrical  [ or its affiliates.   
1.2. 1.1. ] The equipment and related  [ , and ] wiring used 
for radio, broadcast or cable television, 
telecommunicatio ns or information service transmission. 
The exemption shall apply only if under applicable 
federal and state law the ownership and control of the 
equipment and wiring is by the service provider or its 
affiliates. Such exempt equipment and wiring shall be  [ , Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1751 and supporting structures  ] are located on either rights -of-
way or property for which the service provider has rights 
of occupancy and entry ; however, the structures, 
including their service equipment, . 
[ 1.3. 1.2. ] Buildings  housing or supporting such  exempt 
equipment and wiring shall be subject to the USBC.  
[ 1.4. 1.3. ] The installation of  equipment and [ , and ] 
wiring [  , and supporting structures  ] exempted by this 
section shall not create an unsafe condition prohibited by 
the USBC.  
2. [ Support  structures owned or controlled by a provider 
of publicly regulated utility service or its affiliates for the 
transmission and distribution of electric service in 
accordance with all of the following conditions:  
2.1. The support structures are located on e ither rights -of-
way or property for which the service provider has rights 
of occupancy and entry.  
2.2. The support structures exempted by this section shall 
not create an unsafe condition prohibited by the USBC.  
3. Direct burial poles used to support equip ment or wiring 
providing communications, information or cable television 
services. The poles exempted by this section shall not 
create an unsafe condition prohibited by the USBC.  
4. ] Electrical equipment, transmission equipment, and 
related wiring used fo r wireless transmission of radio, 
broadcast, telecommunications, or information service in 
accordance with all of the following conditions:  
[ 2.1. 4.1. ] Buildings housing exempt equipment and 
wiring and structures supporting exempt equipment and 
wiring sh all be subject to the USBC.  
[ 2.2. 4.2. ] The equipment and wiring exempted by this 
section shall not create an unsafe condition prohibited by 
the USBC.  
2. [ 3. 5. ] Manufacturing and, processing , and product 
handling  machines and equipment  that do not produce or 
process hazardous materials regulated by this code, 
including those portions of conveyor systems used 
exclusively for the transport of associated materials or 
products, and  all of the following service equipment 
associated with the manufacturing or processing 
machines. :  
2.1. [ 3.1. 5.1. ] Electrical equipment connected after the 
last disconnecting means.  
2.2. [ 3.2. 5.2. ] Plumbing piping and equipment 
connected after the last shutoff valve or backflow device 
and before the equipme nt drain trap.  
2.3. [ 3.3. 5.3. ] Gas piping and equipment connected 
after the outlet shutoff valve.  Manufacturing and processing machines that produce or 
process hazardous materials regulated by this code are only 
required to comply with the code provisi ons regulating the 
hazardous materials.  
3. [ 4. 6. ] Parking lots and sidewalks that are not part of an 
accessible route.  
4. [ 5. 7. ] Nonmechanized playground or recreational 
equipment such as swing sets, sliding boards, climbing 
bars, jungle gyms, skate board ramps, and similar 
equipment where no admission fee is charged for its use or 
for admittance to areas where the equipment is located.  
5. [ 6. 8. ] Industrialized buildings subject to the Virginia 
Industrialized Building Safety Regulations (13VAC5 -91) 
and manufactured homes subject to the Virginia 
Manufactured Home Safety Regulations (13VAC5 -95); 
except as provided for in Section 425 427 and in the case 
of demolition of such industrialized buildings or 
manufactured homes .  
6. [ 7. 9. ] Farm buildings and structures, except for a 
building or a portion of a building located on a farm that is 
operated as a restaurant as defined in § 35.1 -1 of the Code 
of Virginia and licensed as such by the Virginia Board of 
Health pursuant to Chapter 2 (§ 35.1 -11 et seq. ) of Title 
35.1 of the Code of Virginia. However, farm buildings and 
structures lying within a flood plain or in a mudslide -prone 
area shall be subject to flood -proofing regulations or 
mudslide regulations, as applicable.  
7. [ 8. 10. ] Federally owned bui ldings and structures 
unless federal law specifically requires a permit from the 
locality. Underground storage tank installations, 
modifications and removals shall comply with this code in 
accordance with federal law.  
8. [ 9. 11. ] Off -site manufactured in termodal freight 
containers, moving containers, and storage containers 
placed on site temporarily or permanently for use as a 
storage container.  
9. [ 10. 12. ] Automotive lifts.  
13VAC5 -63-30. Section 103 Application of code.  
A. Section 103.1 General. In accordance with § 36 -99 of the 
Code of Virginia, the USBC shall prescribe building 
regulations to be complied with in the construction and 
rehabilitation of buildings and structures, and the equipment 
therein.  
B. [ Section 103 .1.1 Virginia Existing Building Code. Part II 
of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, also 
known as the "Virginia Existing Building Code," or the 
"VEBC" is applicable to construction and rehabilitation 
activities in existing buildings and structur es, as those terms 
are defined in the VEBC, except where specifically addressed 
in the VCC.   Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1752  C. ] Section 103.2 When applicable to new construction. 
Construction for which a permit application is submitted to 
the local building department on or after the e ffective date of 
the 2012  2015  edition of the code shall comply with the 
provisions of this code, except for permit applications 
submitted during a one -year period beginning on the effective 
date of the 2012  2015  edition of the code. The applicant for a 
permit during such one -year period shall be permitted to 
choose whether to comply with the provisions of this code or 
the provisions of the edition of the code in effect immediately 
prior to the 2012  2015  edition. This provision shall also apply 
to subsequen t amendments to this code based on the effective 
date of such amendments. In addition, when a permit has 
been properly issued under a previous edition of this code, 
this code shall not require changes to the approved 
construction documents, design or const ruction of such a 
building or structure, provided the permit has not been 
suspended or revoked.  
[ C. Section 103.3 Change of occupancy. No change of 
occupancy shall be made in any structure when the current 
USBC requires a greater degree of accessibility,  structural 
strength, fire protection, means of egress, ventilation or 
sanitation. When such a greater degree is required, the owner 
or the owner's agent shall comply with the following:  
1. When involving Group I -2 or I -3, written application 
shall be mad e to the local building department for a new 
certificate of occupancy and the new certificate of 
occupancy shall be obtained prior to the new use of the 
structure. When impractical to achieve compliance with 
this code for the new occupancy classification, the building 
official shall consider modifications upon application and 
as provided for in Section 106.3. In addition, the applicable 
accessibility provisions of Section 1012.8 of Part II of the 
Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, also known as 
the " Virginia  ] Rehabilitation  [ Existing Building  Code," or 
the ] "VRC"  [ "VEBC"  shall be met.  
Exception: This section shall not be construed to permit 
noncompliance with any applicable flood load or flood -
resistant construction requirements of this code.  
2. In other than Group I -2 or I -3, the provisions of the  ] 
VRC  [ VEBC  for change of occupancy shall be met.  
D. Section 103.3.1 Group B teaching and research 
laboratories. Where the use of new or different hazardous 
materials or a change in the amount of haz ardous materials in 
existing Group B teaching and research laboratories in 
educational occupancies above the 12th grade would 
constitute a change of occupancy, Section 302.6 of the VEBC 
shall be permitted to be used as an acceptable alternative to 
complian ce with change of occupancy requirements to permit 
the increased amounts of hazardous materials stipulated 
without the laboratories being classified as Group H.  E. Section 103.4 Additions. Additions to buildings and 
structures shall comply with the requir ements of this code for 
new construction or shall comply with the  ] VRC  [ VEBC . 
An existing building or structure plus additions shall comply 
with the height and area provisions of Chapter 5 and the 
applicable provisions of Chapter 9. Further, this code sh all 
not require changes to the design or construction of any 
portions of the building or structure not altered or affected by 
an addition, unless the addition has the effect of lowering the 
current level of safety.  
Exceptions:  
1. This section shall not b e construed to permit 
noncompliance with any applicable flood load or flood -
resistant construction requirements of this code.  
2. When this code is used for compliance, existing 
structural elements carrying gravity loads shall be 
permitted to comply with S ection 1103 of the  ] 
International Existing Building Code  [ VEBC . ]  
E. [ F. Section 103.5 Reconstruction, alteration or repair in 
Group R -5 occupancies. The following criteria is applicable 
to reconstruction, alteration or repair of Group R -5 buildings 
or structures:  
1. Any reconstruction, alteration or repair shall not 
adversely affect the performance of the building or 
structure, or cause the building or structure to become 
unsafe or lower existing levels of health and safety.  
2. Parts of the building or structure not being 
reconstructed, altered or repaired shall not be required to 
comply with the requirements of this code applicable to 
newly constructed buildings or structures.  
3. The installation of material or equipment, or  both, that is 
neither required nor prohibited shall only be required to 
comply with the provisions of this code relating to the safe 
installation of such material or equipment.  
4. Material or equipment, or both, may be replaced in the 
same location with material or equipment of a similar kind 
or capacity.  
Exceptions:  
1. This section shall not be construed to permit 
noncompliance with any applicable flood load or flood -
resistant construction requirements of this code.  
2. Reconstructed decks, balconies, porches and similar 
structures located 30 inches (762 mm) or more above grade 
shall meet the current code provisions for structural 
loading capacity, connections and structural attachment. 
This requirement excludes the configuration and height of 
handrails  and guardrails.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1753 3. Compliance with the  ] VRC  [ VEBC  shall be an 
acceptable alternative to compliance with this section at the 
discretion of the owner or owner's agent.  ]  
F. [ G. Section 103.5.1 Equipment changes. Upon the 
replacement or new installation  of any fuel -burning 
appliances or equipment in existing Group R -5 occupancies, 
an inspection or inspections shall be conducted to ensure that 
the connected vent or chimney systems comply with the 
following:  
1. Vent or chimney systems are sized in accordance with 
the IRC.  
2. Vent or chimney systems are clean, free of any 
obstruction or blockages, defects, or deterioration, and are 
in operable condition. Where not inspected by the local 
building department, persons performing such changes or 
installa tions shall certify to the building official that the 
requirements of Items 1 and 2 of this section are met.  ]  
G. [ H. Section 103.6 Reconstruction, alteration, and repair 
in other occupancies. Reconstruction, alteration, and repair in 
occupancies other t han Group R -5 shall comply with the  ] 
VRC  [ VEBC . ]  
H. [ I. Section 103.7 Retrofit requirements. The local 
building department shall enforce the provisions of Section 
1701 of the  ] VRC, which require certain existing buildings to 
be retrofitted with fire protection systems and other safety 
equipment. Retroactive fire protection system requirements 
contained in the International Fire Code (IFC) shall not be 
applicable unless required for compliance with the provisions 
of Section 1701 of the VRC  [ VEBC . ]  
I. [ J. D. ] Section [  103.8  103.3  ] Nonrequired equipment. 
The following criteria for nonrequired equipment is in 
accordance with § 36 -103 of the Code of Virginia. Building 
owners may elect to install partial or full fire alarms or other 
safety equipment t hat was not required by the edition of the 
USBC in effect at the time a building was constructed without 
meeting current requirements of the code, provided the 
installation does not create a hazardous condition. Permits for 
installation shall be obtained i n accordance with this code. In 
addition, as a requirement of this code, when such 
nonrequired equipment is to be installed, the building official 
shall notify the appropriate fire official or fire chief.  
J. [ K. E. ] Section [  103.8.1  103.3.1  ] Reduction  in function 
or discontinuance of nonrequired fire protection systems. 
When a nonrequired fire protection system is to be reduced in 
function or discontinued, it shall be done in such a manner so 
as not to create a false sense of protection. Generally, in such 
cases, any features visible from interior areas shall be 
removed, such as sprinkler heads, smoke detectors or alarm 
panels or devices, but any wiring or piping hidden within the 
construction of the building may remain. Approval of the 
proposed method of reduction or discontinuance shall be 
obtained from the building official.  K. [ L. F. ] Section [  103.9  103.4  ] Use of certain provisions 
of referenced codes. The following provisions of the IBC and 
of other indicated codes or standards are to be consid ered 
valid provisions of this code. Where any such provisions have 
been modified by the state amendments to the IBC, then the 
modified provisions apply.  
1. Special inspection requirements in Chapters 2 - 35.  
2. Testing requirements and requirements for t he submittal 
of construction documents in any of the ICC codes 
referenced in Chapter 35 and in the IRC.  
3. Section R301.2 of the IRC authorizing localities to 
determine climatic and geographic design criteria.  
4. Flood load or flood -resistant constructio n requirements 
in the IBC or the IRC, including, but not limited to, any 
such provisions pertaining to flood elevation certificates 
that are located in Chapter 1 of those codes. Any required 
flood elevation certificate pursuant to such provisions shall 
be prepared by a land surveyor licensed in Virginia or an 
RDP.  
5. Section R101.2 of the IRC.  
6. Section N1101.6  N1102.1  of the IRC and Sections 
C101.5.2  C402.1.1  and R101.5.2  R402.1  of the IECC.  
L. [ M. G. ] Section [  103.10  103.5  ] Functional design. The 
following criteria for functional design is in accordance with 
§ 36-98 of the Code of Virginia. The USBC shall not 
supersede the regulations of other state agencies that require 
and govern the functional design and operation of building 
related activities not covered by the USBC, including but not 
limited to (i) public water supply systems, (ii) waste water 
treatment and disposal systems, and (iii) solid waste facilities. 
Nor shall state agencies be prohibited from requiring, 
pursuant to other state law, th at buildings and equipment be 
maintained in accordance with provisions of this code. In 
addition, as established by this code, the building official may 
refuse to issue a permit until the applicant has supplied 
certificates of functional design approval fr om the appropriate 
state agency or agencies. For purposes of coordination, the 
locality may require reports to the building official by other 
departments or agencies indicating compliance with their 
regulations applicable to the functional design of a buil ding 
or structure as a condition for issuance of a building permit or 
certificate of occupancy. Such reports shall be based upon 
review of the plans or inspection of the project as determined 
by the locality. All enforcement of these conditions shall not 
be the responsibility of the building official, but rather the 
agency imposing the condition.  
Note: Identified state agencies with functional design 
approval are listed in the "Related Laws Package," which is 
available from DHCD.  
M. [ N. H. ] Section [  103.11 103.6  ] Amusement devices 
and inspections. In accordance with §  36-98.3 of the Code of Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1754  Virginia, to the extent they are not superseded by the 
provisions of §  36-98.3 of the Code of Virginia and the 
VADR, the provisions of the USBC shall apply to amuse ment 
devices. In addition, as a requirement of this code, inspections 
for compliance with the VADR shall be conducted either by 
local building department personnel or private inspectors 
provided such persons are certified as amusement device 
inspectors und er the VCS.  
N. [ O. I. ] Section [  103.12  103.7  ] State buildings and 
structures. This section establishes the application of the 
USBC to state -owned buildings and structures in accordance 
with § 36 -98.1 of the Code of Virginia. The USBC shall be 
applicable to all state -owned buildings and structures, with 
the exception that §§ 2.2 -1159 through 2.2 -1161 of the Code 
of Virginia shall provide the standards for ready access to and 
use of state -owned buildings by the physically handicapped.  
Any state -owned building or structure or building built on 
state-owned property  for which preliminary plans were 
prepared or on which construction commenced after the 
initial effective date of the USBC, shall remain subject to the 
provisions of the USBC that were in effect at the time such 
plans were completed or such co nstruction commenced. 
Subsequent reconstruction, renovation or demolition of such 
building or structure shall be subject to the pertinent 
provisions of this code.  
Acting through the Division of Engineering and Buildings, 
the Virginia Department of General  Services shall function as 
the building official for state -owned buildings. The 
department shall review and approve plans and specifications, 
grant modifications, and establish such rules and regulations 
as may be necessary to implement this section. It s hall 
provide for the inspection of state -owned buildings and 
enforcement of the USBC and standards for access by the 
physically handicapped by delegating inspection and USBC 
enforcement duties to the State Fire Marshal's Office, to other 
appropriate state agencies having needed expertise, and to 
local building departments, all of which shall provide such 
assistance within a reasonable time and in the manner 
requested. State agencies and institutions occupying buildings 
shall pay to the local building depart ment the same fees as 
would be paid by a private citizen for the services rendered 
when such services are requested by the department. The 
department may alter or overrule any decision of the local 
building department after having first considered the loca l 
building department's report or other rationale given for its 
decision. When altering or overruling any decision of a local 
building department, the department shall provide the local 
building department with a written summary of its reasons for 
doing so .  
Notwithstanding any provision of this code to the contrary, 
roadway tunnels and bridges owned by the Virginia 
Department of Transportation shall be exempt from this code. 
The Virginia Department of General Services shall not have jurisdiction over such roadway tunnels, bridges and other 
limited access highways; provided, however, that the 
Department of General Services shall have jurisdiction over 
any occupied buildings within any Department of 
Transportation rights -of-way that are  subject to this code.  
Except as provided in subsection D E of § 23-38.109  23.1-
1016  of the Code of Virginia, and notwithstanding any 
provision of this code to the contrary, at the request of a 
public institution of higher education, the Virginia 
Departme nt of General Services, as further set forth in this 
provision, shall authorize that institution of higher education 
to contract with a building official of the locality in which the 
construction is taking place to perform any inspection and 
certifications  required for the purpose of complying with this 
code. The department shall publish administrative procedures 
that shall be followed in contracting with a building official 
of the locality. The authority granted to a public institution of 
higher education under this provision to contract with a 
building official of the locality shall be subject to the 
institution meeting the conditions prescribed in subsection B 
A of § 23-38.88  23.1-1002  of the Code of Virginia.  
Note: In accordance with § 36 -98.1 of the Co de of Virginia, 
roadway tunnels and bridges shall be designed, constructed 
and operated to comply with fire safety standards based on 
nationally recognized model codes and standards to be 
developed by the Virginia Department of Transportation in 
consultati on with the State Fire Marshal and approved by the 
Virginia Commonwealth Transportation Board . Emergency 
response planning and activities related to the standards 
approved by the Commonwealth Transportation Board  shall 
be developed by the Department of Tra nsportation and 
coordinated with the appropriate local officials and 
emergency service providers. On an annual basis, the 
Department of Transportation shall provide a report on the 
maintenance and operability of installed fire protection and 
detection syst ems in roadway tunnels and bridges to the State 
Fire Marshal.  
O. [ P. J. ] Section [  103.12.1  103.7.1  ] Certification of state 
enforcement personnel. State enforcement personnel shall 
comply with the applicable requirements of Section 105 for 
certificatio n, periodic maintenance training, and continuing 
education .  
13VAC5 -63-40. Section 104 Enforcement, generally.  
A. Section 104.1 Scope of enforcement. This section 
establishes the requirements for enforcement of the USBC in 
accordance with §  36-105 of the Code of Virginia. 
Enforcement of the provisions of the USBC for construction 
and rehabilitation shall be the responsibility of the local 
building department. Whenever a county or municipality does 
not have such a building department, the local governing 
body shall enter into an agreement with the local governing 
body of another county or municipality or with some other 
agency, or a state agency approved by DHCD for such Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1755 enforcement. For the purposes of this section, towns with a 
population of less than 3,50 0 may elect to administer and 
enforce the USBC; however, where the town does not elect to 
administer and enforce the code, the county in which the town 
is situated shall administer and enforce the code for the town. 
In the event such town is situated in tw o or more counties, 
those counties shall administer and enforce the USBC for that 
portion of the town situated within their respective 
boundaries.  
However, upon a finding by the local building department, 
following a complaint by a tenant of a residential dwelling 
unit that is the subject of such complaint, that there may be a 
violation of the unsafe structures provisions of Part III of the 
Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, also known as 
the "Virginia Maintenance Code," or the "VMC," the local 
build ing department shall enforce such provisions.  
If the local building department receives a complaint that a 
violation of the VMC exists that is an immediate and 
imminent threat to the health or safety of the owner, tenant, or 
occupants of any building or s tructure, or the owner, 
occupant, or tenant of any nearby building or structure, and 
the owner, occupant, or tenant of the building or structure that 
is the subject of the complaint has refused to allow the local 
building official or his agent to have acce ss to the subject 
building or structure, the local building official or his agent 
may present sworn testimony to  make an affidavit under oath 
before  a magistrate or a court of competent jurisdiction and 
request that the magistrate or court grant the local building 
official or his agent an inspection warrant to enable the 
building official or his agent to enter the subject building or 
structure for the purpose of determining whether violations of 
the VMC exist. After issuing a warrant under this section, the  
magistrate or judge shall file the affidavit in the manner 
prescribed by §  19.2-54 of the Code of Virginia. After 
executing the warrant, the local building official or his agents 
shall return the warrant to the clerk of the circuit court of the 
city or co unty wherein the inspection was made.  The local 
building official or his agent shall make a reasonable effort to 
obtain consent from the owner, occupant, or tenant of the 
subject building or structure prior to seeking the issuance of 
an inspection warrant under this section.  
The local governing body shall, however, inspect and 
enforce the provisions of the VMC for elevators, escalators, 
and related conveyances, except for elevators in single -family 
and two -family homes and townhouses. Such inspection and 
enforcement shall be carried out by an agency or department 
designated by the local governing body.  
B. Section 104.2 Interagency coordination. When any 
inspection functions under this code are assigned to a local 
agency other than the local building departme nt, such agency 
shall coordinate its reports of inspection with the local 
building department.  13VAC5 -63-50. Section 105 Local building department.  
A. Section 105.1 Appointment of building official. Every 
local building department shall have a building of ficial as the 
executive official in charge of the department. The building 
official shall be appointed in a manner selected by the local 
governing body. After permanent appointment, the building 
official shall not be removed from office except for cause 
after having been afforded a full opportunity to be heard on 
specific and relevant charges by and before the appointing 
authority. DHCD shall be notified by the appointing authority 
within 30 days of the appointment or release of a permanent 
or acting buildi ng official.  
Note: Building officials are subject to sanctions in 
accordance with the VCS.  
B. Section 105.1.1 Qualifications of building official. The 
building official shall have at least five years of building 
experience as a licensed professional engi neer or architect, 
building, fire or trade inspector, contractor, housing inspector 
or superintendent of building, fire or trade construction or at 
least five years of building experience after obtaining a 
degree in architecture or engineering, with at lea st three years 
in responsible charge of work. Any combination of education 
and experience that would confer equivalent knowledge and 
ability shall be deemed to satisfy this requirement. The 
building official shall have general knowledge of sound 
engineerin g practice in respect to the design and construction 
of structures, the basic principles of fire prevention, the 
accepted requirements for means of egress and the installation 
of elevators and other service equipment necessary for the 
health, safety and ge neral welfare of the occupants and the 
public. The local governing body may establish additional 
qualification requirements.  
C. Section 105.1.2 Certification of building official. An 
acting or permanent building official shall be certified as a 
building o fficial in accordance with the VCS within one year 
after being appointed as acting or permanent building official.  
Exception: A building official in place prior to April 1, 
1983, shall not be required to meet the certification 
requirements in this section  while continuing to serve in the 
same capacity in the same locality.  
D. Section 105.1.3 Noncertified building official. Except for 
a building official exempt from certification under the 
exception to Section 105.1.2, any acting or permanent 
building offi cial who is not certified as a building official in 
accordance with the VCS shall attend the core module of the 
Virginia Building Code Academy or an equivalent course in 
an individual or regional code academy accredited by DHCD 
within 180 days of appointme nt. This requirement is in 
addition to meeting the certification requirement in Section 
105.1.2.  
E. Section 105.1.4 Requirements for periodic maintenance 
and continuing education. Building officials shall attend Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1756  periodic maintenance training as designated  by DHCD. In 
addition to the periodic maintenance training required above, 
building officials shall attend 16 hours of continuing 
education every two years as approved by DHCD. If a 
building official possesses more than one BHCD certificate, 
the 16 hours s hall satisfy the continuing education 
requirement for all BHCD certificates.  
Note: Continuing education and periodic training 
requirements for DHCD certifications are set out in the VCS.  
F. E. Section 105.2 Technical assistants. The building 
official, subj ect to any limitations imposed by the locality, 
shall be permitted to utilize technical assistants to assist the 
building official in the enforcement of the USBC. DHCD 
shall be notified by the building official within 60 days of the 
employment of, contract ing with or termination of all 
technical assistants.  
Note: Technical assistants are subject to sanctions in 
accordance with the VCS.  
G. F. Section 105.2.1 Qualifications of technical assistants. 
A technical assistant shall have at least three years of 
experience and general knowledge in at least one of the 
following areas: building construction; [  building construction 
conceptual and administrative processes;  ] building, fire or 
housing inspections; plumbing, electrical or mechanical 
trades; or fire prote ction, elevator or property maintenance 
work. Any combination of education and experience that 
would confer equivalent knowledge and ability shall be 
deemed to satisfy this requirement. The locality may establish 
additional qualification requirements.  
H. G. Section 105.2.2 Certification of technical assistants. A 
technical assistant shall be certified in the appropriate subject 
area within 18 months after becoming a technical assistant. 
When required by local policy to have two or more 
certifications, a te chnical assistant shall obtain the additional 
certifications within three years from the date of such 
requirement.  
[ Exception  Exceptions :  
1. ] A technical assistant in place prior to March 1, 1988, 
shall not be required to meet the certification require ments 
in this section while continuing to serve in the same 
capacity in the same locality.  
[ 2. A permit technician in place prior to the effective date 
of the 2015 edition of the code shall not be required to 
meet the certification requirements in this s ection while 
continuing to serve in the same capacity in the same 
locality.  ]  
I. Section 105.2.3 Requirements for periodic maintenance 
and continuing education. Technical assistants shall attend 
periodic maintenance training as designated by DHCD. In 
addition to the periodic maintenance training required above, 
technical assistants shall attend 16 hours of continuing education every two years as approved by DHCD. If a 
technical assistant possesses more than one BHCD certificate, 
the 16 hours shall satisfy the continuing education 
requirement for all BHCD certificates.  
Note: Continuing education and periodic training 
requirements for DHCD certifications are set out in the VCS.  
J. H. Section 105.3 Conflict of interest. The standards of 
conduct for building officials and technical assistants shall be 
in accordance with the provisions of the State and Local 
Government Conflict of Interests Act, Chapter 31 (§ 2.2 -3100 
et seq.) of Title 2 .2 of the Code of Virginia.  
K. I. Section 105.4 Records. The local building department 
shall retain a record of applications received, permits, 
certificates, notices and orders issued, fees collected and 
reports of inspection in accordance with The Librar y of 
Virginia's General Schedule Number Six.  
13VAC5 -63-70. Section 107 Fees.  
A. Section 107.1 Authority for charging fees. In accordance 
with § 36 -105 of the Code of Virginia, fees may be levied by 
the local governing body in order to defray the cost of 
enforcement of the USBC.  
Note: See subsection D of § 36 -105 of the Code of Virginia 
for rules for permit fees involving property with easements or 
liens.  
B. Section 107.1.1 Fee schedule. The local governing body 
shall establish a fee schedule incorporating  unit rates, which 
may be based on square footage, cubic footage, estimated cost 
of construction or other appropriate criteria. A permit or any 
amendments to an existing permit shall not be issued until the 
designated fees have been paid, except that the b uilding 
official may authorize the delayed payment of fees.  
C. Section 107.1.2 Refunds. When requested in writing by a 
permit holder, the locality shall provide a fee refund in the 
case of the revocation of a permit or the abandonment or 
discontinuance of  a building project. The refund shall not be 
required to exceed an amount which correlates to work not 
completed.  
D. Section 107.1.3 Fees for generators used with amusement 
devices. Fees for generators and associated wiring used with 
amusement devices sha ll only be charged under the Virginia 
Amusement Device Regulations (13VAC5 -31).  
E. Section 107.2 Code academy fee levy. In accordance with 
subdivision 7 of § 36 -137 of the Code of Virginia, the local 
building department shall collect a 2.0% levy of fees c harged 
for permits issued under this code and transmit it quarterly to 
DHCD to support training programs of the Virginia Building 
Code Academy. Localities that maintain individual or 
regional training academies accredited by DHCD shall retain 
such levy.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1757 13VAC5 -63-80. Section 108 Application for permit.  
A. Section 108.1 When applications are required. 
Application for a permit shall be made to the building official 
and a permit shall be obtained prior to the commencement of 
any of the following activities, e xcept that applications for 
emergency construction, alterations or equipment 
replacement shall be submitted by the end of the first working 
day that follows the day such work commences. In addition, 
the building official may authorize work to commence 
pend ing the receipt of an application or the issuance of a 
permit.  
1. Construction or demolition of a building or structure. 
Installations or alterations involving (i) the removal or 
addition of any wall, partition or portion thereof, (ii) any 
structural comp onent, (iii) the repair or replacement of any 
required component of a fire or smoke rated assembly, (iv) 
the alteration of any required means of egress system, (v) 
water supply and distribution system, sanitary drainage 
system or vent system, (vi) electric  wiring, (vii) fire 
protection system, mechanical systems, or fuel supply 
systems, or (viii) any equipment regulated by the USBC.  
2. For change of occupancy, application for a permit shall 
be made when a new certificate of occupancy is required 
[ under Sec tion 103.3  by the VEBC  ].  
3. Movement of a lot line that increases the hazard to or 
decreases the level of safety of an existing building or 
structure in comparison to the building code under which 
such building or structure was constructed.  
4. Removal or disturbing of any asbestos containing 
materials during the construction or demolition of a 
building or structure, including additions.  
B. Section 108.2 Exemptions from application for permit. 
Notwithstanding the requirements of Section 108.1 , 
application for a permit and any related inspections shall not 
be required for the following; however, this section shall not 
be construed to exempt such activities from other applicable 
requirements of this code. In addition, when an owner or an 
owner's  agent requests that a permit be issued for any of the 
following, then a permit shall be issued and any related 
inspections shall be required.  
1. Installation of wiring and equipment that (i) operates at 
less than 50 volts, (ii) is for [  network powered  ] broadband 
communications systems, [  or ] (iii) is exempt under 
Section 102.3(1) or [ 102.3(2)  102.3(4)  ], [ or (iv) is for 
monitoring or automation systems in dwelling units,  ] 
except when any such installations are located in a plenum, 
penetrate fire rat ed or smoke protected construction or are 
a component of any of the following:  
1.1. Fire alarm system.  
1.2. Fire detection system.  1.3. Fire suppression system.  
1.4. Smoke control system.  
1.5. Fire protection supervisory system.  
1.6. Elevator fire sa fety control system.  
1.7. Access or egress control system or delayed egress 
locking or latching system.  
1.8. Fire damper.  
1.9. Door control system.  
2. One story detached structures used as tool and storage 
sheds, playhouses or similar uses, provided th e building 
area does not exceed 256 square feet (23.78 m2) and the 
structures are not classified as a Group F -1 or H 
occupancy.  
3. Detached prefabricated buildings housing the equipment 
of a publicly regulated utility service, provided the floor 
area does  not exceed 150 square feet (14 m2).  
4. Tents or air -supported structures, or both, that cover an 
area of 900 square feet (84 m2) or less, including within 
that area all connecting areas or spaces with a common 
means of egress or entrance, provided such t ents or 
structures have an occupant load of 50 or less persons.  
5. Fences of any height unless required for pedestrian 
safety as provided for by Section 3306, or used for the 
barrier for a swimming pool.  
6. Concrete or masonry walls, provided such walls do not 
exceed six feet in height above the finished grade. 
Ornamental column caps shall not be considered to 
contribute to the height of the wall and shall be permitted 
to extend above the six feet height measurement.  
7. Retaining walls supporting less th an three feet of 
unbalanced fill that are not constructed for the purpose of 
impounding Class I, II or III -A liquids or supporting a 
surcharge other than ordinary unbalanced fill.  
8. Swimming pools that have a surface area not greater 
than 150 square feet  (13.95 m2), do not exceed 5,000 
gallons (19 000 L) and are less than 24 inches (610 mm) 
deep.  
9. Signs under the conditions in Section H101.2 of 
Appendix H.  
10. Replacement of above -ground existing LP -gas 
containers of the same capacity in the same loca tion and 
associated regulators when installed by the serving gas 
supplier.  
11. Flagpoles 30 feet (9144 mm) or less in height.  
12. Temporary ramps serving dwelling units in Group R -3 
and R -5 occupancies where the height of the entrance Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1758  served by the ramp is no more than 30 inches (762 mm) 
above grade.  
13. Construction work deemed by the building official to 
be minor and ordinary and which does not adversely affect 
public health or general safety.  
14. Ordinary repairs that include the following:  
14.1. Re placement of windows and doors with windows 
and doors of similar operation and opening dimensions 
that do not require changes to the existing framed 
opening and that are not required to be fire rated in 
Group R -2 where serving a single dwelling unit and in  
Groups R -3, R-4 and R -5.  
14.2. Replacement of plumbing fixtures and well pumps 
in all groups without alteration of the water supply and 
distribution systems, sanitary drainage systems or vent 
systems.  
14.3. Replacement of general use snap switches, dimm er 
and control switches, 125 volt -15 or 20 ampere 
receptacles, luminaires (lighting fixtures) and ceiling 
(paddle) fans in Group R -2 where serving a single 
dwelling unit and in Groups R -3, R-4 and R -5. 
14.4. Replacement of mechanical appliances provided 
such equipment is not fueled by gas or oil in Group R -2 
where serving a single -family dwelling and in Groups R -
3, R-4 and R -5. 
14.5. Replacement of an unlimited amount of roof 
covering or siding in Groups R -3, R-4 or R -5 provided 
the building or structure is  not in an area where the 
nominal  design (3 second gust)  wind speed is greater 
than 100 miles per hour (160 km/hr)  (44.7 meters per 
second)  and replacement of 100 square feet (9.29 m2) or 
less of roof covering in all groups and all wind zones.  
14.6. Replac ement of [  100 256 ] square feet [  (9.29 m2) 
23.78 m2 ] or less of roof decking in Groups R -3, R-4 or 
R-5 unless the decking to be replaced was required at the 
time of original construction to be fire -retardant -treated 
or protected in some other way to for m a fire -rated wall 
termination.  
14.7. Installation or replacement of floor finishes in all 
occupancies.  
14.8. Replacement of Class C interior wall or ceiling 
finishes installed in Groups A, E and I and replacement 
of all classes of interior wall or ceilin g finishes in other 
groups.  
14.9. Installation or replacement of cabinetry or trim.  
14.10. Application of paint or wallpaper.  
14.11. Other repair work deemed by the building official 
to be minor and ordinary which does not adversely affect 
public health or  general safety.  15. Crypts, mausoleums, and columbaria structures not 
exceeding 1500 square feet (139.35 m2) in area if the 
building or structure is not for occupancy and used solely 
for the interment of human or animal remains and is not 
subject to spec ial inspections.  
16. Billboard safety upgrades to add or replace steel 
catwalks, steel ladders, or steel safety cable.  
[ Exception  Exceptions  ]: 
[ 1. ] Application for a permit may be required by the 
building official for the installation of replacement si ding, 
roofing and windows in buildings within a historic district 
designated by a locality pursuant to §  15.2-2306 of the 
Code of Virginia.  
[ 2. Application for a permit may be required by the 
building official for any items exempted in this section that 
are located in a special flood hazard area.  ]  
C. Section 108.3 Applicant information, processing by mail. 
Application for a permit shall be made by the owner or lessee 
of the relevant property or the agent of either or by the RDP, 
contractor or subcontractor associated with the work or any of 
their agents. The full name and address of the owner, lessee 
and applicant shall be provided in the application. If the 
owner or lessee is a corporate body, when and to the extent 
determined necessary by the  building official, the full name 
and address of the responsible officers shall also be provided.  
A permit application may be submitted by mail and such 
permit applications shall be processed by mail, unless the 
permit applicant voluntarily chooses otherwi se. In no case 
shall an applicant be required to appear in person.  
The building official may accept applications for a permit 
through electronic submissions provided the information 
required by this section is obtained.  
D. Section 108.4 Prerequisites to o btaining permit. In 
accordance with § 54.1 -1111 of the Code of Virginia, any 
person applying to the building department for the 
construction, removal or improvement of any structure shall 
furnish prior to the issuance of the permit either (i) 
satisfactory proof to the building official that he is duly 
licensed or certified under the terms or Chapter 11 (§  54.1-
1000 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia to carry out 
or superintend the same or (ii) file a written statement, 
supported by an affidavit,  that he is not subject to licensure or 
certification as a contractor or subcontractor pursuant to 
Chapter 11 of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia. The 
applicant shall also furnish satisfactory proof that the taxes or 
license fees required by any county, city, or town have been 
paid so as to be qualified to bid upon or contract for the work 
for which the permit has been applied.  
E. Section 108.5 Mechanics' lien agent designation. In 
accordance with §  36-98.01 of the Code of Virginia, a 
building permit iss ued for any one -family or two -family Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1759 residential dwelling shall at the time of issuance contain, at 
the request of the applicant, the name, mailing address, and 
telephone number of the mechanics' lien agent as defined in 
§ 43-1 of the Code of Virginia. If the designation of a 
mechanics' lien agent is not so requested by the applicant, the 
building permit shall at the time of issuance state that none 
has been designated with the words "None Designated."  
Note: In accordance with § 43 -4.01A of the Code of 
Virginia, a permit may be amended after it has been initially 
issued to name a mechanics' lien agent or a new mechanics' 
lien agent.  
F. Section 108.6 Application form, description of work. The 
application for a permit shall be submitted on a form or forms 
supp lied by the local building department. The application 
shall contain a general description and location of the 
proposed work and such other information as determined 
necessary by the building official.  
G. Section 108.7 Amendments to application. An 
applic ation for a permit may be amended at any time prior to 
the completion of the work governed by the permit. 
Additional construction documents or other records may also 
be submitted in a like manner. All such submittals shall have 
the same effect as if filed with the original application for a 
permit and shall be retained in a like manner as the original 
filings.  
H. Section 108.8 Time limitation of application. An 
application for a permit for any proposed work shall be 
deemed to have been abandoned six months  after the date of 
filing unless such application has been pursued in good faith 
or a permit has been issued, except that the building official is 
authorized to grant one or more extensions of time if a 
justifiable cause is demonstrated.  
 [ 13VAC5 -63-130. Section 113 Inspections.  
A. Section 113.1 General. In accordance with § 36 -105 of 
the Code of Virginia, any building or structure may be 
inspected at any time before completion, and shall not be 
deemed in compliance until approved by the inspecting 
author ity. Where the construction cost is less than $2,500, 
however, the inspection may, in the discretion of the 
inspecting authority, be waived. The building official shall 
coordinate all reports of inspections for compliance with the 
USBC, with inspections of  fire and health officials delegated 
such authority, prior to the issuance of an occupancy permit.  
B. Section 113.1.1 Equipment required. Any ladder, 
scaffolding or test equipment necessary to conduct or witness 
a requested inspection shall be provided by  the permit holder.  
C. Section 113.1.2 Duty to notify. When construction 
reaches a stage of completion that requires an inspection, the 
permit holder shall notify the building official.  
D. Section 113.1.3 Duty to inspect. Except as provided for 
in Sectio n 113.7, the building official shall perform the requested inspection in accordance with Section 113.6 when 
notified in accordance with Section 113.1.2.  
E. Section 113.2 Prerequisites. The building official may 
conduct a site inspection prior to issuing a  permit. When 
conducting inspections pursuant to this code, all personnel 
shall carry proper credentials.  
F. Section 113.3 Minimum inspections. The following 
minimum inspections shall be conducted by the building 
official when applicable to the constructi on or permit:  
1. Inspection of footing excavations and reinforcement 
material for concrete footings prior to the placement of 
concrete.  
2. Inspection of foundation systems during phases of 
construction necessary to assure compliance with this code.  
3. Inspection of preparatory work prior to the placement of 
concrete.  
4. Inspection of structural members and fasteners prior to 
concealment.  
5. Inspection of electrical, mechanical and plumbing 
materials, equipment and systems prior to concealment.  
6. Insp ection of energy conservation material prior to 
concealment.  
7. Final inspection.  
G. 113.3.1 Equipment changes. Upon the replacement or 
new installation of any fuel -burning appliances or equipment 
in existing Group R -5 occupancies, an inspection or 
inspe ctions shall be conducted to ensure that the connected 
vent or chimney systems comply with the following:   
1. Vent or chimney systems are sized in accordance with 
the IRC.  
2. Vent or chimney systems are clean, free of any 
obstruction or blockages, defects , or deterioration, and are 
in operable condition. Where not inspected by the local 
building department, persons performing such changes or 
installations shall certify to the building official that the 
requirements of Items 1 and 2 of this section are met.   
H. Section 113.4 Additional inspections. The building 
official may designate additional inspections and tests to be 
conducted during the construction of a building or structure 
and shall so notify the permit holder.  
H. I. Section 113.5 In -plant and fact ory inspections. When 
required by the provisions of this code, materials, equipment 
or assemblies shall be inspected at the point of manufacture 
or fabrication. The building official shall require the submittal 
of an evaluation report of such materials, eq uipment or 
assemblies. The evaluation report shall indicate the complete 
details of the assembly including a description of the 
assembly and its components, and describe the basis upon Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1760  which the assembly is being evaluated. In addition, test 
results and ot her data as necessary for the building official to 
determine conformance with the USBC shall be submitted. 
For factory inspections, an identifying label or stamp 
permanently affixed to materials, equipment or assemblies 
indicating that a factory inspection  has been made shall be 
acceptable instead of a written inspection report, provided the 
intent or meaning of such identifying label or stamp is 
properly substantiated.  
I. J. Section 113.6 Approval or notice of defective work. The 
building official shall either approve the work in writing or 
give written notice of defective work to the permit holder. 
Upon request of the permit holder, the notice shall reference 
the USBC sectio n that serves as the basis for the defects and 
such defects shall be corrected and reinspected before any 
work proceeds that would conceal such defects. A record of 
all reports of inspections, tests, examinations, discrepancies 
and approvals issued shall b e maintained by the building 
official and shall be communicated promptly in writing to the 
permit holder. Approval issued under this section may be 
revoked whenever it is discovered that such approval was 
issued in error or on the basis of incorrect inform ation, or 
where there are repeated violations of the USBC. Notices 
issued pursuant to this section shall be permitted to be 
communicated electronically, provided the notice is 
reasonably calculated to get to the permit holder.  
J. K. Section 113.7 Approved  inspection agencies. The 
building official may accept reports of inspections and tests 
from individuals or inspection agencies approved in 
accordance with the building official's written policy required 
by Section 113.7.1. The individual or inspection age ncy shall 
meet the qualifications and reliability requirements 
established by the written policy. Under circumstances where 
the building official is unable to make the inspection or test 
required by Section 113.3 or 113.4 within two working days 
of a reque st or an agreed upon date or if authorized for other 
circumstances in the building official's written policy, the 
building official shall accept reports for review. The building 
official shall approve the report from such approved 
individuals or agencies u nless there is cause to reject it. 
Failure to approve a report shall be in writing within two 
working days of receiving it stating the reason for the 
rejection. Reports of inspections conducted by approved 
third -party inspectors or agencies shall be in wri ting, shall 
indicate if compliance with the applicable provisions of the 
USBC have been met and shall be certified by the individual 
inspector or by the responsible officer when the report is from 
an agency.  
Exception: The licensed mechanical contractor i nstalling the 
mechanical system shall be permitted to perform duct tests 
required by Section R403.3.3 of the IECC or Section 
N1103.3.3 of the IRC. The contractor shall have been trained 
on the equipment used to perform the test.   Note: Photographs, videota pes or other sources of pertinent 
data or information may be considered as constituting such 
reports and tests.  
K. L. Section 113.7.1 Third -party inspectors. Each building 
official charged with the enforcement of the USBC shall have 
a written policy establishing the minimum acceptable 
qualifications for third -party inspectors. The policy shall 
include the format and time  frame required for submission of 
reports, any prequalification or preapproval requirements 
before conducting a third -party inspection and any other 
requirements and procedures established by the building 
official.  
L. M. Section 113.7.2 Qualifications. In  determining third -
party inspector qualifications, the building official may 
consider such items as DHCD inspector certification, other 
state or national certifications, state professional registrations, 
related experience, education and any other factors that would 
demonstrate competency and reliability to conduct 
inspections.  
M. N. Section 113.8 Final inspection. Upon completion of a 
building or structure and before the issuance of a certificate of 
occupancy, a final inspection shall be conducted to ensu re 
that any defective work has been corrected and that all work 
complies with the USBC and has been approved, including 
any work associated with modifications under Section 106.3. 
The building official shall be permitted to require the 
electrical service t o a building or structure to be energized 
prior to conducting the final inspection. The approval of a 
final inspection shall be permitted to serve as the new 
certificate of occupancy required by Section 116.1 in the case 
of additions or alterations to exis ting buildings or structures 
that already have a certificate of occupancy.  
13VAC5 -63-150. Section 115 Violations.  
A. Section 115.1 Violation a misdemeanor; civil penalty. In 
accordance with § 36 -106 of the Code of Virginia, it shall be 
unlawful for any o wner or any other person, firm or 
corporation, on or after the effective date of any code 
provisions, to violate any such provisions. Any locality may 
adopt an ordinance that establishes a uniform schedule of 
civil penalties for violations of specified pro visions of the 
code that are not abated or remedied promptly after receipt of 
a notice of violation from the local enforcement officer.  
Note: See the full text of § 36 -106 of the Code of Virginia 
for additional requirements and criteria pertaining to legal  
action relative to violations of the code.  
B. Section 115.2 Notice of violation. The building official 
shall issue a written notice of violation to the responsible 
party if any violations of this code or any directives or orders 
of the building official h ave not been corrected or complied 
with in a reasonable time. The notice shall reference the code 
section upon which the notice is based and direct the 
discontinuance and abatement  correction  of the violation or Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1761 the compliance with such directive or order and specify a 
reasonable time period within which the corrections or 
compliance must occur . The notice shall be issued by either 
delivering a copy to the responsible party by mail to the last 
known address or delivering the notice in person or by 
leaving i t in the possession of any person in charge of the 
premises, or by posting the notice in a conspicuous place if 
the person in charge of the premises cannot be found. The 
notice of violation shall indicate the right of appeal by 
referencing the appeals sect ion. When the owner of the 
building or structure, or the permit holder for the construction 
in question, or the tenants of such building or structure, are 
not the responsible party to whom the notice of violation is 
issued, then a copy of the notice shall also be delivered to the 
such owner, permit holder or tenants.  
Note: A notice of unsafe building or structure for structures 
that become unsafe during the construction process are issued 
in accordance with Section 118.  
C. Section 115.2.1 Notice not to be i ssued under certain 
circumstances. When violations are discovered more than two 
years after the certificate of occupancy is issued or the date of 
initial occupancy, whichever occurred later, or more than two 
years after the approved final inspection for an  alteration or 
renovation, a notice of violation shall only be issued upon 
advice from the legal counsel of the locality that action may 
be taken to compel correction of the violation. When 
compliance can no longer be compelled by prosecution under 
§ 36-106 of the Code of Virginia, the building official, when 
requested by the building owner, shall document in writing 
the existence of the violation noting the edition of the USBC 
the violation is under.  
D. Section 115.3 Further action when violation not 
corre cted. If the responsible party has not complied with the 
notice of violation, the building official shall submit a written 
request to  may initiate legal proceedings by requesting  the 
legal counsel of the locality to institute the appropriate legal 
proceedi ngs to restrain, correct or abate the violation or to 
require the removal or termination of the use of the building 
or structure involved. In cases where the locality so 
authorizes, the building official may issue or obtain a 
summons or warrant. Compliance  with a notice of violation 
notwithstanding, the building official may request legal 
proceedings be instituted for prosecution when a person, firm 
or corporation is served with three or more notices of 
violation within one calendar year for failure to obta in a 
required construction permit prior to commencement of work 
subject to this code.  
Note: See § 19.2 -8 of the Code of Virginia concerning the 
statute of limitations for building code prosecutions.  
E. Section 115.4 Penalties and abatement. Penalties for 
violations of the USBC shall be as set out in § 36 -106 of the 
Code of Virginia. The successful prosecution of a violation of the USBC shall not preclude the institution of appropriate 
legal action to require correction or abatement of a violation.  
F. Sectio n 115.5 Transfer of ownership. In accordance with 
§ 36-105 of the Code of Virginia, if the local building 
department has initiated an enforcement action against the 
owner of a building or structure and such owner subsequently 
transfers the ownership of the  building or structure to an 
entity in which the owner holds an ownership interest greater 
than 50%, the pending enforcement action shall continue to 
be enforced against the owner.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-170. Section 117 Temporary and moved 
buildings and structures;  demolition.  
A. Section 117.1 Temporary buildings and structures. The 
building official is authorized to issue a permit for temporary 
buildings or structures. Such permits shall be limited as to 
time of service, but shall not be permitted for more than on e 
year, except that upon the permit holder's written request, the 
building official may grant one or more extensions of time, 
not to exceed one year per extension. The building official is 
authorized to terminate the approval and order the demolition 
or re moval of temporary buildings or structures during the 
period authorized by the permit when determined necessary.  
B. Section 117.1.1 Temporary uses within existing buildings 
and structures. The building official shall review and may 
approve conditions or m odifications for temporary uses, 
including hypothermia and hyperthermia shelters, that may be 
necessary as long as the use meets the spirit and functional 
intent intended by this code. The building official is 
authorized to terminate the approval and order  the 
discontinuance of the temporary use during the period 
authorized by the permit when determined necessary. The 
building official shall notify the appropriate fire official or 
fire chief of the approved temporary use.  
C. Section 117.2 Moved buildings a nd structures. Any 
building or structure moved into a locality or moved to a new 
location within a locality shall not be occupied or used until a 
certification  certificate  of occupancy is issued for the new 
location. Such moved buildings or structures shal l be required 
to comply with the requirements of this code for a newly 
constructed building or structure unless meeting all of the 
following requirements relative to the new location:  
1. There is no change in the occupancy classification from 
its previous  location.  
2. The building or structure was in compliance with all 
state and local requirements applicable to it in its previous 
location and is in compliance with all state and local 
requirements applicable if originally constructed in the 
new location.  
3. The building or structure did not become unsafe during 
the moving process due to structural damage or for other 
reasons.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1762  4. Any alterations, reconstruction, renovations or repairs 
made pursuant to the move are in compliance with 
applicable requirement s of the VRC  VEBC .  
D. Section 117.3 Demolition of buildings and structures. 
Prior to the issuance of a permit for the demolition of any 
building or structure, the owner or the owner's agent shall 
provide certification to the building official that all ser vice 
connections of utilities have been removed, sealed or plugged 
satisfactorily and a release has been obtained from the 
associated utility company. The certification shall further 
provide that written notice has been given to the owners of 
adjoining lot s and any other lots that may be affected by the 
temporary removal of utility wires or the temporary 
disconnection or termination of other services or facilities 
relative to the demolition. In addition, the requirements of 
Chapter 33 of the IBC for any nec essary retaining walls or 
fences during demolition shall be applicable and when a 
building or structure is demolished or removed, the 
established grades shall be restored.  
 [ 13VAC5 -63-190. Section 119 Appeals.  
A. Section 119.1 Establishment of appeals b oard. In 
accordance with § 36 -105 of the Code of Virginia, there shall 
be established within each local building department a 
LBBCA. Whenever a county or a municipality does not have 
such a LBBCA, the local governing body shall enter into an 
agreement with  the local governing body of another county or 
municipality or with some other agency, or a state agency 
approved by DHCD for such appeals resulting therefrom. 
Fees may be levied by the local governing body in order to 
defray the cost of such appeals. In a ddition, as an 
authorization in this code, separate LBBCAs may be 
established to hear appeals of different enforcement areas 
such as electrical, plumbing or mechanical requirements. 
Each such LBBCA shall comply with the requirements of this 
section. The lo cality is responsible for maintaining a duly 
constituted LBBCA prepared to hear appeals within the time 
limits established in this section. The LBBCA shall meet as 
necessary to assure a duly constituted board, appoint officers 
as necessary, and receive suc h training on the code as may be 
appropriate or necessary from staff of the locality.  
B. Section 119.2 Membership of board. The LBBCA shall 
consist of at least five members appointed by the locality for a 
specific term of office established by written policy. Alternate 
members may be appointed to serve in the absence of any 
regular members and as such, shall have the full power and 
authority of the regular members. Regular and alternate 
members may be reappointed. Written records of current 
membership, including a record of the current chairman and 
secretary shall be maintained in the office  of the locality. In 
order to provide continuity, the terms of the members may be 
of different length so that less than half will expire in any 
one-year period.  C. Section 119.3 Officers and qualifications of members. 
The LBBCA shall annually select one o f its regular members 
to serve as chairman. When the chairman is not present at an 
appeal hearing, the members present shall select an acting 
chairman. The locality or the chief executive officer of the 
locality shall appoint a secretary to the LBBCA to ma intain a 
detailed record of all proceedings. Members of the LBBCA 
shall be selected by the locality on the basis of their ability to 
render fair and competent decisions regarding application of 
the USBC and shall to the extent possible, represent different  
occupational or professional fields relating to the construction 
industry. At least one member should be an experienced 
builder; at least one member should be an RDP, and at least 
one member should be an experienced property manager. 
Employees or official s of the locality shall not serve as 
members of the LBBCA.  
D. Section 119.4 Conduct of members. No member shall 
hear an appeal in which that member has a conflict of interest 
in accordance with the State and Local Government Conflict 
of Interests Act (§ 2. 2-3100 et seq. of the Code of Virginia). 
Members shall not discuss the substance of an appeal with 
any other party or their representatives prior to any hearings.  
E. Section 119.5 Right of appeal; filing of appeal 
application. Any person aggrieved by the l ocal building 
department's application of the USBC or the refusal to grant a 
modification to the provisions of the USBC may appeal to the 
LBBCA. The applicant shall submit a written request for 
appeal to the LBBCA within 30 calendar days of the receipt 
of the decision being appealed. The application shall contain 
the name and address of the owner of the building or structure 
and in addition, the name and address of the person 
appealing, when the applicant is not the owner. A copy of the 
building official's decision shall be submitted along with the 
application for appeal and maintained as part of the record. 
The application shall be marked by the LBBCA to indicate 
the date received. Failure to submit an application for appeal 
within the time limit establishe d by this section shall 
constitute acceptance of a building official's decision.  
Note: To the extent that a decision of a building official 
pertains to amusement devices there may be a right of appeal 
under the VADR.  
F. Section 119.6 Meetings and postponem ents. The LBBCA 
shall meet within 30 calendar days after the date of receipt of 
the application for appeal, except that a period of up to 45 
calendar days shall be permitted where the LBBCA has 
regularly scheduled monthly meetings. A longer time period 
shall be permitted if agreed to by all the parties involved in 
the appeal. A notice indicating the time and place of the 
hearing shall be sent to the parties in writing to the addresses 
listed on the application at least 14 calendar days prior to the 
date of the hearing, except that a lesser time period shall be 
permitted if agreed to by all the parties involved in the appeal. 
When a quorum of the LBBCA is not present at a hearing to Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1763 hear an appeal, any party involved in the appeal shall have the 
right to requ est a postponement of the hearing. The LBBCA 
shall reschedule the appeal within 30 calendar days of the 
postponement, except that a longer time period shall be 
permitted if agreed to by all the parties involved in the appeal.  
G. Section 119.7 Hearings and decision. All hearings before 
the LBBCA shall be open meetings and the appellant, the 
appellant's representative, the locality's representative and any 
person whose interests are affected by the building official's 
decision in question shall be given an op portunity to be heard. 
The chairman shall have the power and duty to direct the 
hearing, rule upon the acceptance of evidence and oversee the 
record of all proceedings. The LBBCA shall have the power 
to uphold, reverse or modify the decision of the officia l by a 
concurring vote of a majority of those present. Decisions of 
the LBBCA shall be final if no further appeal is made. The 
decision of the LBBCA shall be by resolution  explained in 
writing,  signed by the chairman and retained as part of the 
record of t he appeal. Copies of the resolution  written decision  
shall be sent to all parties by certified mail. In addition, the 
resolution  written decision  shall contain the following 
wording:  
"Any person who was a party to the appeal may appeal to 
the State Review Board by submitting an application to 
such Board within 21 calendar days upon receipt by 
certified mail of this resolution  decision . Application forms 
are available from the Office of the State Review Board, 
600 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, (804) 
371-7150."  
H. Section 119.8 Appeals to the State Review Board. After 
final determination by the LBBCA in an appeal, any person 
who was a party to the appeal may further appeal to the State 
Review Board. In accordance with § 36 -98.2 of the Code of 
Virginia for state -owned buildings and structures, appeals by 
an involved state agency from the decision of the building 
official for state -owned buildings or structures shall be made 
directly to the State Review Board. The application for appeal 
shall be mad e to the State Review Board within 21 calendar 
days of the receipt of the decision to be appealed. Failure to 
submit an application within that time limit shall constitute an 
acceptance of the building official's decision. For appeals 
from a LBBCA, a copy of the building official's decision and 
the resolution  written decision  of the LBBCA shall be 
submitted with the application for appeal to the State Review 
Board. Upon request by the office of the State Review Board, 
the LBBCA shall submit a copy of all pe rtinent information 
from the record of the appeal. In the case of appeals involving 
state-owned buildings or structures, the involved state agency 
shall submit a copy of the building official's decision and 
other relevant information with the application f or appeal to 
the State Review Board. Procedures of the State Review 
Board are in accordance with Article 2 (§ 36 -108 et seq.) of 
Chapter 6 of Title 36 of the Code of Virginia. Decisions of the State Review Board shall be final if no further appeal is 
made.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-200. Chapter 2 Definitions.  
A. Add the following definitions to Section 202 of the IBC 
to read:  
Aboveground liquid fertilizer storage tank (ALFST). A 
device that contains an accumulation of liquid fertilizer (i) 
constructed of nonearthen ma terials, such as concrete, steel 
or plastic, that provide structural support; (ii) having a 
capacity of 100,000 gallons (378 500 L) or greater; and 
(iii) the volume of which is more than 90% above the 
surface of the ground. The term does not include any 
wastewater treatment or wastewater storage tank, utility or 
industry pollution control equipment.  
Building regulations. Any law, rule, resolution, regulation, 
ordinance or code, general or special, or compilation 
thereof, heretofore or hereafter enacted or a dopted by the 
Commonwealth or any county or municipality, including 
departments, boards, bureaus, commissions, or other 
agencies thereof, relating to construction, reconstruction, 
alteration, conversion, repair, maintenance, or use of 
structures and buildi ngs and installation of equipment 
therein. The term does not include zoning ordinances or 
other land use controls that do not affect the manner of 
construction or materials to be used in the erection, 
alteration or repair of a building or structure.  
Chang e of occupancy. A change in the use or occupancy of 
any building or structure that would place the building or 
structure in a different division of the same group of 
occupancies or in a different group of occupancies; or a 
change in the purpose or level of  activity within a building 
or structure that involves a change in application of the 
requirements of this code.  
Chemical fume hood. A ventilated enclosure designed to 
contain and exhaust fumes, gases, vapors, mists, and 
particulate matter generated within  the hood.  
Construction. The construction, reconstruction, alteration, 
repair, or conversion of buildings and structures.  
Day-night average sound level (Ldn). A 24 -hour energy 
average sound level expressed in dBA, with a 10 decibel 
penalty applied to nois e occurring between 10  p.m. and 
7 a.m.  
DHCD. The Virginia Department of Housing and 
Community Development.  
Emergency communication equipment. Emergency 
communication equipment, includes but is not limited to 
two-way radio communications, signal booster, bi-
directional amplifiers, radiating cable systems, or internal 
multiple antenna, or a combination of the foregoing.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1764  Emergency public safety personnel. Emergency public 
safety personnel includes firefighters, emergency medical 
personnel, law -enforcement o fficers, and other emergency 
public safety personnel routinely called upon to provide 
emergency assistance to members of the public in a wide 
variety of emergency situations, including but not limited 
to fires, medical emergencies, violent crimes, and terr orist 
attacks.  
Equipment. Plumbing, heating, electrical, ventilating, air -
conditioning and refrigeration equipment, elevators, 
dumbwaiters, escalators, and other mechanical additions or 
installations.  
Farm building or structure. A building or structure n ot used 
for residential purposes, located on property where farming 
operations take place, and used primarily for any of the 
following uses or combination thereof:  
1. Storage, handling, production, display, sampling or 
sale of agricultural, horticultural,  floricultural or 
silvicultural products produced in the farm.  
2. Sheltering, raising, handling, processing or sale of 
agricultural animals or agricultural animal products.  
3. Business or office uses relating to the farm operations.  
4. Use of farm machi nery or equipment or maintenance 
or storage of vehicles, machinery or equipment on the 
farm.  
5. Storage or use of supplies and materials used on the 
farm.  
6. Implementation of best management practices 
associated with farm operations.  
Hospice facility. An institution, place, or building owned 
or operated by a hospice provider and licensed by the 
Virginia Department of Health as a hospice facility to 
provide room, board, and palliative and supportive medical 
and other health services to terminally ill patients and their 
families, including respite and symptom management, on a 
24-hour basis to individuals requiring such care pursuant to 
the orders of a physician.  
Industrialized building. A combination of one or more 
sections or modules, s ubject to state regulations and 
including the necessary electrical, plumbing, heating, 
ventilating and other service systems, manufactured off -
site and transported to the point of use for installation or 
erection, with or without other specified components , to 
comprise a finished building. Manufactured homes shall 
not be considered industrialized buildings for the purpose 
of this code.  
Laboratory suite. A fire -rated enclosed laboratory area that 
will provide one or more laboratory spaces, within a Group 
B educational occupancy, that are permitted to include 
ancillary uses such as offices, bathrooms, and corridors that are contiguous with the laboratory area and are 
constructed in accordance with Section 430.3.  
LBBCA. Local board of building code appeals.  
Liquid fertilizer. A fluid in which a fertilizer is in true 
solution. This term does not include anhydrous ammonia 
or a solution used in pollution control.  
Local building department. The agency or agencies of any 
local governing body charged with the admini stration, 
supervision, or enforcement of this code, approval of 
construction documents, inspection of buildings or 
structures, or issuance of permits, licenses, certificates or 
similar documents.  
Local governing body. The governing body of any city, 
count y or town in this Commonwealth.  
Locality. A city, county or town in this Commonwealth.  
Manufactured home. A structure subject to federal 
regulation, which is transportable in one or more sections; 
is eight body feet or more in width and 40 body feet or 
more in length in the traveling mode, or is 320 or more 
square feet when erected on site; is built on a permanent 
chassis; is designed to be used as a single -family dwelling, 
with or without a permanent foundation, when connected 
to the required utilities; and includes the plumbing, 
heating, air -conditioning, and electrical systems contained 
in the structure.  
Marina. Any installation, operating under public or private 
ownership, that has a structure providing dockage or 
moorage for boats, other than paddleb oats or rowboats, and 
provides, through sale, rental, fee, or on a free basis, any 
equipment, supply, or service, including fuel, electricity, or 
water, for the convenience of the public or its lessees, 
renters, or users of its facilities. A dock or pier w ith or 
without slips that exclusively serves a single -family 
residential lot for the use of the owner of the lot is not a 
marina.  
Night club. Any building in which the main use is a place 
of public assembly that provides exhibition, performance 
or other f orms of entertainment; serves alcoholic 
beverages; and provides music and space for dancing.  
Permissible fireworks. Any sparklers, fountains, Pharaoh's 
serpents, caps for pistols, or pinwheels commonly known 
as whirligigs or spinning jennies.  
Short -term holding area. An area containing a holding cell 
or cells, or a holding room or rooms, including associated 
rooms or spaces where the occupants are restrained or 
detained by the use of security measures not under the 
occupant's control for less than 24 hour s.  
Skirting. A weather -resistant material used to enclose the 
space from the bottom of the manufactured home to grade.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1765 Slip. A berth or space where a boat may be secured to a 
fixed or floating structure, including a dock, finger pier, 
boat lift, or moori ng buoy.  
Sound transmission class (STC) rating. A single number 
characterizing the sound reduction performance of a 
material tested in accordance with ASTM E90 -90, 
"Laboratory Measurement of Airborne Sound 
Transmission Loss of Building Partitions."  
State  regulated care facility (SRCF). A building with an 
occupancy in Group R -2, R -3, R -4 or R -5 occupied by 
persons in the care of others where program oversight is 
provided by the Virginia Department of Social Services, 
the Virginia Department of Behavioral H ealth and 
Developmental Services, the Virginia Department of 
Education or the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice.  
State Review Board. The Virginia State Building Code 
Technical Review Board as established under §  36-108 of 
the Code of Virginia.  
Teac hing and research laboratory. A building or portion of 
a building where hazardous materials are stored, used, and 
handled for the purpose of testing, analysis, teaching, 
research, or developmental activities on a nonproduction 
basis rather than in a manufa cturing process.  
Technical assistant. Any person employed by or under an 
extended contract to a local building department or local 
enforcing agency for enforcing the USBC, including but 
not limited to inspectors [  and, ] plans reviewers [  , and 
permit tec hnicians  ]. For the purpose of this definition, an 
extended contract shall be a contract with an aggregate 
term of 18 months or longer.  
Tenable environmental. An environment in which the 
products of combustion, including smoke, toxic gases, 
particulates, and heat, are limited or otherwise restricted in 
order to maintain the impact on occupants, including those 
in the area of fire origin, to a level that is not life 
threatening and permits the rescue of occupants for a 
limited time.  
Unsafe building or stru cture. Any building or structure that 
is under construction and has not received a permanent 
certificate of occupancy, final inspection, or for which a 
permit was never issued or has expired and has been 
determined by the building official to be of faulty 
construction that is so damaged, decayed, dilapidated, 
structurally unsafe, or of such faulty construction or 
unstable foundation that partial or complete collapse is 
likely, or any unfinished construction that does not have a 
valid permit, or the permit h as been revoked, and the 
condition of the unfinished construction presents an 
immediate serious and imminent threat to the life and 
safety of the occupants or the public.  VADR. The Virginia Amusement Device Regulations 
(13VAC5 -31).  
VCS. The Virginia Cert ification Standards (13VAC5 -21).  
Working day. A day other than Saturday, Sunday or a legal 
local, state or national holiday.  
B. Change the following definitions in Section 202 of the 
IBC to read:  
24-hour basis. The actual time that a person is an occupa nt 
within a facility for the purpose of receiving care. It shall 
not include a facility that is open for 24 hours and is 
capable of providing care to someone visiting the facility 
during any segment of the 24 hours.  
Addition. An extension or increase in floor area, number of 
stories, or height of a building or structure.  
Ambulatory health  care facility. Buildings or portions 
thereof used to provide medical care on less than a 24 -hour 
basis  that are licensed by the Virginia Department of 
Health as outpatie nt surgical hospitals.  
Automatic fire -extinguishing system. An approved system 
of devices and equipment that automatically detects a fire 
and discharges an approved fire -extinguishing agent onto 
or in the area of a fire and includes among other systems an 
automatic sprinkler system, unless otherwise expressly 
stated.  
Building. A combination of materials, whether portable or 
fixed, having a roof to form a structure for the use or 
occupancy by persons, or property. The word "building" 
shall be construed as t hough followed by the words "or 
part or parts thereof" unless the context clearly requires a 
different meaning. "Building" shall not include roadway 
tunnels and bridges owned by the Virginia Department of 
Transportation, which shall be governed by construc tion 
and design standards approved by the Virginia 
Commonwealth Transportation Board.  
For application of this code, each portion of a building that 
is completely separated from other portions by fire walls 
complying with Section 706 shall be considered as  a 
separate building (see Section 503.1).  
Change of occupancy.  [ A change in the use or occupancy 
of any building or structure that would place the building 
or structure in a different division of the same group of 
occupancies or in a different group of o ccupancies or a 
change in the purpose or level of activity within a building 
or structure that involves a change in application of the 
requirements of this code  See Section 202 of the VEBC  ].  
Clinic, outpatient. Buildings or portions thereof used to 
provide medical care on less than a 24 -hour basis that are 
not licensed by the Virginia Department of Health as 
outpatient surgical hospitals.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1766  Custodial care. Assistance with day -to-day living tasks, 
such as assistance with cooking, taking medication, 
bathing, using toilet facilities, and other tasks of daily 
living. In other than in hospice facilities, custodial care 
includes occupants that have the ability to respond to 
emergency situations and evacuate at a slower rate or who 
have mental and psychiatric complications, or both.  
Group home. A facility for social rehabilitation or 
substance abuse or mental health problems that contains a 
group housing arrangement that provides custodial care but 
does not provide medical care.  
Existing structure. A structur e (i) for which a legal building 
permit has been issued under any edition of the USBC, (ii) 
which has been previously approved, or (iii) which was 
built prior to the initial edition of the USBC. For 
application of provisions in flood hazard areas, an exist ing 
structure is any building or structure for which the start of 
construction commenced before the effective date of the 
community's first flood plain management code, ordinance, 
or standard.  
Owner. The owner or owners of the freehold of the 
premises or l esser estate therein, a mortgagee or vendee in 
possession, assignee of rents, receiver, executor, trustee or 
lessee in control of a building or structure.  
Registered Design Professional (RDP). An architect or 
professional engineer, licensed to practice ar chitecture or 
engineering, as defined under § 54.1 -400 of the Code of 
Virginia.  
Substantial damage. For the purpose of determining 
compliance with the flood provisions of this code, damage 
of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost of 
restori ng the structure to its before -damaged condition 
would equal or exceed 50% of the market value of the 
structure before the damage occurred.  
Substantial improvement. For the purpose of determining 
compliance with the flood provisions of this code, any 
impro vement, including repair, reconstruction, 
rehabilitation, alteration, or addition, or other improvement 
of a building or structure or a portion thereof the cost of 
which equals or exceeds 50% of the market value of the 
building or structure before the impr ovement or repair is 
started. If the building or structure or portion thereof has 
sustained substantial damage, any improvements are 
considered substantial improvements regardless of the 
actual improvement performed. The term does not, 
however, include eit her: 
1. Any project for improvement of a building or a 
structure or portion thereof required to correct existing 
health, sanitary, or safety code violations identified by 
the building official and that is the minimum necessary to 
assure safe living conditi ons; or  2. Any alteration of a historic structure, provided that the 
alteration will not preclude the building or structure's 
continued designation as a historic building or structure.  
Swimming pool. An aquatic vessel  A pool or spa  as 
defined in the Intern ational Swimming Pool and Spa Code 
(ISPSC).  
Structure. An assembly of materials forming a construction 
for occupancy or use including stadiums, gospel and circus 
tents, reviewing stands, platforms, stagings, observation 
towers, radio towers, water tanks, storage tanks 
(underground and aboveground), trestles, piers, wharves, 
swimming pools, amusement devices, storage bins, and 
other structures of this general nature but excluding water 
wells. The word "structure" shall be construed as though 
followed by the  words "or part or parts thereof" unless the 
context clearly requires a different meaning. "Structure" 
shall not include roadway tunnels and bridges owned by 
the Virginia Department of Transportation, which shall be 
governed by construction and design stan dards approved 
by the Virginia Commonwealth Transportation Board.  
C. Delete the following definitions from Section 202 of the 
IBC:  
Agricultural [ , ] building  
Existing structure (For Chapter 34)  
Approved  
Historic buildings  
13VAC5 -63-210. Chapter 3 Use an d occupancy 
classification.  
A. Change Sections 303.1.1 and 303.1.2 of the IBC to read:  
303.1.1 Small buildings and tenant spaces. A building or 
tenant space used for assembly purposes with an occupant 
load of less than 50 persons shall be permitted to be 
classified as a Group B occupancy.  
303.1.2 Small assembly spaces. The following rooms and 
spaces shall be permitted to be classified as Group B 
occupancies or as part of the assembly occupancy:  
1. A room or space used for assembly purposes with an 
occupant  load of less than 50 persons and ancillary to 
another occupancy.  
2. A room or space used for assembly purposes that is 
less than 750 square feet (70 m2) in area and ancillary to 
another occupancy.  
B. Change Section 303.6 of the IBC to read:  
303.6 Assembl y Group A -5. Assembly uses intended for 
participation in or viewing outdoor activities including, but 
not limited to:  
Amusement park structures  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1767 Bleachers  
Grandstands  
Stadiums  
Swimming pools  
C. Add Section 304.1.1 to the IBC to read:  
304.1.1 Day suppo rt and day treatment facilities. Day 
support and day treatment facilities licensed by the 
Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and 
Developmental Services shall be permitted to be classified 
as Group B occupancies provided all of the following 
condition s are met:  
1. Participants who may require physical assistance from 
staff to respond to an emergency situation shall be 
located on the level of exit discharge.  
2. Any change in elevation within the exit access on the 
level of exit discharge shall be made b y means of a ramp 
or sloped walkway.  3. Where the facilities are located more than two stories 
above grade, an automatic sprinkler system shall be 
provided throughout the building in accordance with 
Section 903.3.1.1.  
B. D. Change exception 13 14 of Sectio n 307.1  307.1.1  of 
the IBC and add exception 15 to Section 307.1.1 of the IBC  
to read:  
13. 14. The storage of black powder, smokeless propellant 
and small arms primers in Groups M, R -3 and R -5 and 
special industrial explosive devices in Groups B, F, M and  
S, provided such storage conforms to the quantity limits 
and requirements prescribed in the IFC, as amended in 
Section 307.9.  
15. The storage of distilled spirits and wines in wooden 
barrels and casks. Distillation, blending, bottling, and other 
hazardou s materials storage or processing shall be in 
separate control areas complying with Section 414.2.  
C. E. Change the "Consumer fireworks" row in and  "Flammable liquid, combination (IA, IB, IC)" row in Table 307.1(1),  add 
a new "Permissible fireworks" row to Table 307.1(1) of the IBC , and add footnote "r" to Table 307.1(1) of the IBC  to read:  
Consumer 
fireworks  1.4G  H-3 125e,l N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 
Flammable 
liquid, 
combination 
(IA, IB, IC)  NA H-2 
or 
H-3 NA 120d,e,h NA NA 120d,h NA NA 30d,h,r 
Permissible 
fireworks  1.4G  H-3 125d,e,l N/A 
NA N/A 
NA N/A 
NA N/A 
NA N/A 
NA N/A 
NA N/A 
NA 
r. The tabular value for distilled spirit distillation and blending rooms is 120 gallons.  
D. F. Add Section 307.9 to the IBC to read:  
307.9 Amendments. The following changes shall be made 
to the IFC for the use of Exception 13 14 in Section 307.1  
307.1.1 :  
1. Change the following definition in Section 202 of the 
IFC to read:  
Smokeless propellants. Solid propellants, commonly 
referred to  as smokeless powders, or any propellants 
classified by DOTn as smokeless propellants in 
accordance with NA3178 (Smokeless Powder for Small 
Arms), used in small arms ammunition, firearms, 
cannons, rockets, propellant -actuated devices, and similar 
articles.   2. Change Section 314.1 of the IFC to read as follows:  
314.1 General. Indoor displays constructed within any 
building or structure shall comply with Sections 314.2 
through 314.5.  
3. Add new Section 314.5 to the IFC to read as follows:  
314.5 Smokeless powder and small arms primers. 
Vendors shall not store, display or sell smokeless powder 
or small arms primers during trade shows inside 
exhibition halls except as follows:  
1. The amount of smokeless powder each vender may 
store is limited to the storage arrangements and storage 
amounts established in Section 5606.5.2.1.  
2. Smokeless powder shall remain in the manufacturer's 
original sealed container and the container shall remain 
sealed while inside the building. The repackaging of Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1768  smokeless powder shall  not be performed inside the 
building. Damaged containers shall not be repackaged 
inside the building and shall be immediately removed 
from the building in such manner to avoid spilling any 
powder.  
3. There shall be at least 50 feet separation between 
vendors and 20 feet from any exit.  
4. Small arms primers shall be displayed and stored in 
the manufacturer's original packaging and in accordance 
with the requirements of Section 5606.5.2.3.  
4. Change Exception 4 and add Exceptions 10 and 11 to 
Section 5601 .1 of the IFC as follows:  
4. The possession, storage and use of not more than 15 
pounds (6.75 kg) of commercially manufactured sporting 
black powder, 20 pounds (9 kg) of smokeless powder and 
any amount of small arms primers for hand loading of 
small arms ammunition for personal consumption.  
10. The display of small arms primers in Group M when 
in the original manufacturer's packaging.  
11. The possession, storage and use of not more than 50 
pounds (23 kg) of commercially manufactured sporting 
black powder , 100 pounds (45 kg) of smokeless powder, 
and small arms primers for hand loading of small arms 
ammunition for personal consumption in Group R -3 or 
R-5, or 200 pounds (91 kg) of smokeless powder when 
stored in the manufacturer's original containers in 
detached Group U structures at least 10 feet (3048 mm) 
from inhabited buildings and are accessory to Group R -3 
or R-5.  
5. Change Section 5606.4 of the IFC to read as follows:  
5606.4 Storage in residences. Propellants for personal 
use in quantities not exceeding 50 pounds (23 kg) of 
black powder or 100 pounds (45 kg) of smokeless 
powder shall be stored in original containers in 
occupancies limited to Group R -3 and R -5 or 200 pou nds 
(91 kg) of smokeless powder when stored in the 
manufacturer's original containers in detached Group U 
structures at least 10 feet (3048 mm) from inhabited 
buildings and are accessory to Group R -3 or R -5. In other 
than Group R -3 or R -5, smokeless powder  in quantities 
exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) but not exceeding 50 pounds 
(23 kg) shall be kept in a wooden box or cabinet having 
walls of at least one inch (25 mm) nominal thickness or 
equivalent.  
6. Delete Sections 5606.4.1 and 5606.4.2 of the IFC.  
7. Chan ge Section 5606.5.1.1 of the IFC to read as follows:  
5606.5.1.1 Smokeless propellant. No more than 100 
pounds (45 kg) of smokeless propellants in containers of 
eight pounds (3.6 kg) or less capacity shall be displayed 
in Group M occupancies.  8. Delete Se ction 5606.5.1.3 of the IFC.  
9. Change Section 5606.5.2.1 of the IFC as follows:  
5606.5.2.1 Smokeless propellant. Commercial stocks of 
smokeless propellants shall be stored as follows:  
1. Quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg), but not 
exceeding 100 poun ds (45 kg) shall be stored in portable 
wooden boxes having walls of at least one inch (25 mm) 
nominal thickness or equivalent.  
2. Quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg), but not 
exceeding 800 pounds (363 kg), shall be stored in storage 
cabinets having wa lls at least one inch (25 mm) nominal 
thickness or equivalent. Not more than 400 pounds (182 
kg) shall be stored in any one cabinet, and cabinets shall 
be separated by a distance of at least 25 feet (7620 mm) 
or by a fire partition having a fire -resistance  rating of at 
least one hour.  
3. Storage of quantities exceeding 800 pounds (363 kg), 
but not exceeding 5,000 pounds (2270 kg) in a building 
shall comply with all of the following:  
3.1. The storage is inaccessible to unauthorized 
personnel.  
3.2. Smokele ss propellant shall be stored in nonportable 
storage cabinets having wood walls at least one inch (25 
mm) nominal thickness or equivalent and having shelves 
with no more than 3 feet (914 mm) of vertical separation 
between shelves.  
3.3. No more than 400 po unds (182 kg) is stored in any 
one cabinet.  
3.4. Cabinets shall be located against walls with at least 
40 feet (12 192 mm) between cabinets. The minimum 
required separation between cabinets may be reduced to 
20 feet (6096 mm) provided that barricades twic e the 
height of the cabinets are attached to the wall, midway 
between each cabinet. The barricades must extend a 
minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) outward, be firmly 
attached to the wall, and be constructed of steel not less 
than 0.25 inch thick (6.4 mm), 2 -inch (51 mm) nominal 
thickness wood, brick, or concrete block.  
3.5. Smokeless propellant shall be separated from 
materials classified as combustible liquids, flammable 
liquids, flammable solids, or oxidizing materials by a 
distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or by  a fire partition 
having a fire -resistance rating of 1 hour.  
3.6. The building shall be equipped throughout with an 
automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with 
Section 903.3.1.1.  
4. Smokeless propellants not stored according to Item 1, 
2, or 3 above shall be stored in a Type 2 or 4 magazine in 
accordance with Section 5604 and NFPA 495.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1769 E. G. Add the following to the list of terms in Section 308.2 
of the IBC:  
Hospice facility  
F. H. Change Section 308.3 of the IBC to read:  
308.3 Institutional  Group I -1. This occupancy shall include 
buildings, structures or portions thereof for more than 16 
persons, excluding staff, who reside on a 24 -hour basis in a 
supervised environment and receive custodial care. 
Buildings of Group I -1, other than assisted living facilities 
licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services, 
shall be classified as the occupancy condition indicated in 
Section 308.3.1. Assisted living facilities licensed by the 
Virginia Department of Social Services shall be classified 
as one of the occupancy conditions indicated in Section 
308.3.1 or 308.3.2. This group shall include, but not be 
limited to, the following:  
Alcohol and drug centers  
Assisted living facilities  
Congregate care facilities  
Group homes  
Halfway houses  
Residen tial board and care facilities  
Social rehabilitation facilities  
G. I. Change Sections 308.3.1 and 308.3.2 of the IBC to 
read:  
308.3.1 Condition 1. This occupancy condition shall 
include buildings in which all persons receiving custodial 
care who, without any assistance, are capable of 
responding to an emergency situation to complete building 
evacuation. Not more than five of the residents may require 
physical assistance from staff to respond to an emergency 
situation when all residents who may require the physical 
assistance reside on a single level of exit discharge.  
308.3.2 Condition 2. This occupancy condition shall 
include bu ildings in which there are persons receiving 
custodial care who require assistance by not more than one 
staff member while responding to an emergency situation 
to complete building evacuation. Five of the residents may 
require physical assistance from more  than one staff 
member to respond to an emergency.  
H. Add Sections 308.3.3 and 308.3.4 to the IBC to read:  
308.3.3 Six to 16 persons receiving custodial care. A 
facility housing not fewer than six and not more than 16 
persons receiving custodial care sha ll be classified as 
Group R -4.  
308.3.4 Five or fewer persons receiving custodial care. A 
facility with five or fewer persons receiving custodial care shall be classified as Group R -3 or shall comply with the 
IRC provided an automatic sprinkler system is i nstalled in 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 or with Section P2904 
of the IRC.  
I. J. Change Section 308.4 of the IBC to read:  
308.4 Group I -2. This occupancy shall include buildings 
and structures used for medical care on a 24 -hour basis for 
more than f ive persons who are incapable of self -
preservation. This group shall include, but not be limited 
to, the following:  
Convalescent facilities  
Detoxification facilities  
Foster care facilities  
Hospice facilities  
Hospitals  
Nursing homes  
Psychiatric hospi tals  
Exception: Hospice facilities occupied by 16 or less 
occupants, excluding staff, are permitted to be classified 
as Group R -4.  
J. K. Add an exception to Section 308.6 of the IBC to read:  
Exception: Family day homes under Section 310.9.  
K. L. Change  Section 310.3 of the IBC to read:  
310.3 Residential Group R -1. Residential occupancies 
containing sleeping units where the occupants are 
primarily transient in nature, including:  
Boarding houses (transient) with more than 10 occupants  
Congregate living  facilities (transient) with more than 10 
occupants  
Hotels (transient)  
Motels (transient)  
Exceptions:  
1. Nonproprietor occupied bed and breakfast and other 
transient boarding facilities not more than three stories 
above grade plane in height with a max imum of 10 
occupants total are permitted to be classified as either 
Group R -3 or R -5 provided that smoke alarms are 
installed in compliance with Section 907.2.11.2 for 
Group R -3 or Section R314 of the IRC for Group R -5.  
2. Proprietor occupied bed and brea kfast and other 
transient boarding facilities not more than three stories 
above grade plane in height, that are also occupied as the 
residence of the proprietor, with a maximum of five guest 
room sleeping units provided for the transient occupants 
are perm itted to be classified as either Group R -3 or R -5 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1770  provided that smoke alarms are installed in compliance 
with Section 907.2.11.2 for Group R -3 or Section R314 
of the IRC for Group R -5.  
L. M. Change Section 310.6 of the IBC to read:  
310.6 Residential Group R -4. This occupancy shall include 
buildings, structures or portions thereof for more than five 
but not more than 16 persons, excluding staff, who reside 
on a 24 -hour basis in a supervised environment and receive 
custodial care. Buil dings of Group R -4, other than assisted 
living facilities licensed by the Virginia Department of 
Social Services, shall be classified as the occupancy 
condition indicated in Section 310.6.1. Assisted living 
facilities licensed by the Virginia Department of  Social 
Services shall be classified as one of the occupancy 
conditions indicated in Section 310.6.1 or 310.6.2. This 
group shall include, but not be limited to the following:  
Alcohol and drug centers  
Assisted living facilities  
Congregate care facilitie s  
Group homes  
Halfway houses  
Residential board and care facilities  
Social rehabilitation facilities  
This occupancy shall also include hospice facilities with 
not more than 16 occupants, excluding staff.  
Group R -4 occupancies shall meet the requiremen ts for 
construction as defined for Group R -3, except as otherwise 
provided for in this code.  
Exceptions:  
1. Group homes licensed by the Virginia Department of 
Behavioral Health and Developmental Services that 
house no more than eight persons with one or m ore 
resident counselors shall be classified as Group R -2, R-3, 
R-4 or R -5. Not more than five of the persons may 
require physical assistance from staff to respond to an 
emergency situation.  
2. In Group R -4 occupancies classified as the occupancy 
condition  indicated in Section 310.6.1, other than in 
hospice facilities, not more than five of the residents may 
require physical assistance from staff to respond to an 
emergency situation when all residents who may require 
the physical assistance from staff resid e on a single level 
of exit discharge and other than using a ramp, a change 
of elevation using steps or stairs is not within the path of 
egress to an exit door.  
3. Assisted living facilities licensed by the Virginia 
Department of Social Services that hous e no more than 
eight persons, with one or more resident counselors, and all of the residents are capable of responding to an 
emergency situation without physical assistance from 
staff, may be classified as Group R -2, R-3 or R -5.  
4. Assisted living facilit ies licensed by the Virginia 
Department of Social Services that house no more than 
eight persons, with one or more resident counselors, may 
be classified as Group R -5 when in compliance with all 
of the following:  
4.1. The building is protected by an autom atic sprinkler 
system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 or 
Section P2904 of the IRC.  
4.2. Not more than five of the residents may require 
physical assistance from staff to respond to an emergency 
situation.  
4.3. All residents who may require phy sical assistance 
from staff to respond to an emergency situation reside on 
a single level of exit discharge and other than using a 
ramp, a change in elevation using steps or stairs is not 
within the path of egress to an exit door.  
5. Hospice facilities wi th five or fewer occupants are 
permitted to comply with the IRC provided the building 
is protected by an automatic sprinkler system in 
accordance with IRC Section P2904 or IBC Section 
903.3.  
M. N. [ Add Change  ] Sections 310.6.1 and 310.6.2 to the 
IBC to read:  
310.6.1 Condition 1. This occupancy condition shall 
include buildings in which all persons receiving custodial 
care who, without any assistance, are capable of 
responding to an emergency situation to complete building 
evacuation and hospice faciliti es.  
310.6.2 Condition 2. This occupancy condition shall 
include buildings in which there are persons receiving 
custodial care who require assistance by not more than one 
staff member while responding to an emergency situation 
to complete building evacuati on.  
N. O. Add Section 310.7 to the IBC to read:  
310.7 Residential Group R -5. Residential occupancies in 
detached single -family and two -family dwellings, 
townhouses and accessory structures within the scope of 
the IRC.  
O. P. Add Section 310.8 to the IBC to read:  
310.8 Group R -5. The construction of Group R -5 structures 
shall comply with the IRC. The amendments to the IRC set 
out in Section 310.11 shall be made to the IRC for its use 
as part of this code. In addition, all references to the IRC in 
the IBC shall be considered to be references to this section.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1771 P. Q. Add Section 310.8.1 to the IBC to read:  
310.8.1 Additional requirements. Methods of construction, 
materials, systems, equipment or components for Group R -
5 structures not addressed by prescriptive or performance 
provisions of the IRC shall comply with applicable IBC 
requirements.  
Q. R. Add Sect ion 310.9 to the IBC to read:  
310.9 Family day homes. Family day homes where 
program oversight is provided by the Virginia Department 
of Social Services shall be classified as Group R -2, R-3 or 
R-5.  
Note: Family day homes may generally care for up to 12 
children. See the DHCD Related Laws Package for 
additional information.  
R. S. Add Section 310.10 to the IBC to read:  
310.10 Radon -resistant construction in Groups R -3 and R -
4 structures. Groups R -3 and R -4 structures shall be subject 
to the radon -resista nt construction requirements in 
Appendix F of the IRC in localities enforcing such 
requirements pursuant to Section R324 of the IRC.  
S. T. Add Section 310.11 to the IBC to read:  
310.11 Amendments to the IRC. The following changes 
shall be made to the IRC  for its use as part of this code:  
1. Add the following definitions to read:  
Living area. Space within a dwelling unit utilized for 
living and entertainment, including family rooms, great 
rooms, living rooms, dens, media rooms, and similar 
spaces.  
Nonpot able fixtures and outlets. Fixtures and outlets that 
are not dependent on potable water for the safe operation 
to perform their intended use. Such fixtures and outlets 
may include, but are not limited to water closets, urinals, 
irrigation, mechanical equip ment, and hose connections 
to perform operations, such as vehicle washing and lawn 
maintenance.  
Nonpotable water systems. Water systems for the 
collection, treatment, storage, distribution, and use or 
reuse of nonpotable water. Nonpotable systems include 
reclaimed water, rainwater, and gray water systems.  
Rainwater. Natural precipitation, including snow melt, 
from roof surfaces only.  
Stormwater. Precipitation that is discharged across the 
land surface or through conveyances to one or more 
waterways and t hat may include stormwater runoff, snow 
melt runoff, and surface runoff and drainage.  2. Change the following definitions to read:  
Attic, habitable. A finished or unfinished area, not 
considered a story, complying with all of the following 
requirements:  
1. The occupiable floor area is at least 70 square feet (17 
m2), in accordance with Section R304,  
2. The occupiable floor area has a ceiling height in 
accordance with Section R305, and  
3. The occupiable space is enclosed by the roof assembly 
above, knee  walls (if applicable) on the sides and the 
floor -ceiling assembly below.  
Habitable attics greater than two -thirds of the area of the 
story below or over 400 square feet (37.16 m2) shall not 
be permitted in dwellings or townhouses that are three 
stories a bove grade plane in height.  
Gray water. Water discharged from lavatories, bathtubs, 
showers, clothes washers, and laundry trays.  
3. Change Section R301.2.1 to read:  
R301.2.1 Wind design criteria. Buildings and portions 
thereof shall be constructed in ac cordance with the wind 
provisions of this code using the basic  ultimate design  
wind speed in Table R301.2(1) as determined from 
Figure R301.2(4)A. The structural provisions of this code 
for wind loads are not permitted where wind design is 
required as spec ified in Section R301.2.1.1. 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, 
garage doors, and exterior door s. 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 in Section R802.11.1 
from the roof assembly to the foundation. Wind speeds 
for loca lities in special wind regions, near mountainous 
terrain, and near gorges shall be based on elevation. 
Areas at 4,000 feet in elevation or higher shall use the 
nominal design wind speed of  110 V mph (48.4 m/s) and 
areas under 4,000 feet in elevation shall use nominal 
design wind speed of  90 V mph (39.6 m/s). Gorge areas 
shall be based on the highest recorded speed per locality 
or in accordance with local jurisdiction requirements 
determined in accordance with Section 26.5.1 of ASCE 
7.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1772  4. Add Exception  Exceptions  6 and 7  to Section R302.1 to 
read:  
6. Decks and open porches.  
7. Walls of dwellings and accessory structures located on 
lots in subdivisions or zoning districts where building 
setbacks established by local ordinance prohibit the walls 
of the s tructures on adjacent lots from being closer than 
10 feet (3048 mm) to each other at any point along the 
exterior walls.  
5. Change the exception in Section R302.2 to require a 
common two -hour fire -resistance -rated wall instead of a 
one-hour fire -resistance -rated wall, unless the townhouse 
development is fully sprinklered as provided for in Section 
R313.1, in which case a common one -hour fire -resistive -
rated wall shall be permitted between townhouses.  
6. 5. Add the following sentence to the end of Section 
R302.3 to read:  
Dwelling unit separation wall assemblies that are 
constructed on a lot line shall be constructed as required in 
Section R302.2 for townhouses.  
7. 6. Change Section R302.5.1 to read [  and d elete Section 
R302.13 in its entirety  ]:  
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 1 -3/8 inches (35 mm) thickness, solid 
or honeycomb -core steel doors not less than 1 -3/8 inches 
(35 mm) thick, or 20 -minute fire -rated doors.  
7. Change Section R303.4 to read:  
R303.4 Mechanical ventilation. Dwelling units shall be 
provi ded with mechanical ventilation in accordance with 
Section M1507.  
8. Add an exception to Section R303.9 to read:  
Exception: Seasonal structures not used as a primary 
residence for more than 90 days per year, unless rented, 
leased or let on terms expressed  or implied to furnish 
heat, shall not be required to comply with this section.  
9. Add Section R303.9.1 to read:  
R303.9.1 Nonowner occupied required heating. Every 
dwelling unit or portion thereof which is to be rented, 
leased or let on terms either expr essed or implied to 
furnish heat to the occupants thereof shall be provided 
with facilities in accordance with Section R303.9 during 
the period from October 15 to May 1.  
10. Add Section R303.10 to read:  
R303.10 Insect screens. Every door, window and othe r 
outside opening required for ventilation purposes shall be supplied with approved tightly fitted screens of not less 
than 16 mesh per inch (16 mesh per 25 mm) and every 
screen door used for insect control shall have a self -
closing device.  
11. Add Sectio n R306.5 to read:  
R306.5 Water supply sources and sewage disposal 
systems. The water and drainage system of any building 
or premises where plumbing fixtures are installed shall 
be connected to a public or private water supply and a 
public or private sewer  system. As provided for in 
Section [  103.10  103.5  ] of Part I of the Virginia Uniform 
Statewide Building Code (13VAC5 -63), for functional 
design, water supply sources and sewage disposal 
systems are regulated and approved by the Virginia 
Department of Hea lth and the Virginia Department of 
Environmental Quality.  
Note: See also the Memorandums of Agreement in the 
"Related Laws Package," which is available from the 
Virginia Department of Housing and Community 
Development.  
12. [ Change Section R308.4.5 to re ad:  
R308.4.5 Glazing and wet surfaces. Glazing in walls, 
enclosures, or fences containing or facing hot tubs, spas, 
whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs, showers, and 
indoor or outdoor swimming pools shall be considered a 
hazardous location if locate d less than 60 inches (1524 
mm) measured horizontally, in a straight line, from the 
water's edge and the bottom exposed edge of the glazing 
is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) measured vertically 
above any standing or walking surface. This shall apply 
to sing le glazing and each pane in multiple glazing.  
13. ] Change Section R310.1 to read:  
R310.1 Emergency escape and rescue opening  required. 
Basements, habitable attics, and every sleeping room 
designated on the construction documents shall have at 
least not less than  one operable emergency escape and 
rescue opening. Where basements contain one or more 
sleeping rooms, an emergency egress and rescue 
openings  opening  shall be required in each sleeping 
room. Where emergency escape and rescue openings are 
provided , they shall have a sill height of not more than 44 
inches (1118 mm) measured from the finished floor to 
the bottom of the clear opening. Where a door opening 
having a threshold below the adjacent ground elevation 
serves as an emergency escape and rescue o pening and is 
provided with a bulkhead enclosure, the bulkhead 
enclosure shall comply with Section R310.3. The net 
clear opening dimensions required by this section shall 
be obtained by the normal operation of the emergency 
escape and rescue opening from t he inside, except that 
tilt-out or removable sash designed windows shall be 
permitted to be used. Emergency escape and rescue Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1773 openings with a finished height below the adjacent 
ground elevation shall be provided with a window well in 
accordance with Sectio n R310.2.  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. Dwelling units equipped throughout with an approved 
automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with 
NFPA 13, 13R, or 13D or Section P2904.  
2. Basements  Storm shelters and basements  used only to 
house mechanical equipment and not exceeding total 
floor area of 200 square feet (18.58 m2).  
[ 13. 14. ] Change Section R310.1.1  R310.2.1  to read:  
R310.1.1  R310.2.1  Minimum opening area. All 
emergency  Emergency and  escape and rescue openings 
shall have a minimum  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 no rmal operation of the emergency escape and rescue 
opening from the inside , including the tilting or removal 
of the sash as the normal operation to comply with 
Sections R310.1.2 and R310.1.3 . The net clear height 
opening shall be not less than 24 inches (61 0 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 minimum  net clear opening of not less than  5 
square feet (0.465 m2).  
14. Add Section R311.2.1 to read:  
R311.2.1 Interior passage. Where a dwelling unit has 
both a kitchen and a living or entertainment area on the 
same level as the egress door required by Section 
R311.2, an interior passage route shall be provided from 
such egress door to the kitchen and the  living or 
entertainment area and to at least one bedroom and at 
least one bathroom containing a water closet, lavatory 
and bathtub or shower, where such rooms are provided 
on that same level. Any doors or cased openings along 
such interior passage route p roviding access to the areas 
identified above shall comply with the following.  
1. Cased openings shall provide a minimum 34 -inch clear 
width.  
2. Doors shall be, at a minimum, nominal 34 -inch doors.  
Exceptions:  
1. Where a door or cased opening, and its associated 
molding or trim, is at the end and facing the length of a 
hallway and the width of the hallway is not wide enough 
to accommodate such doors or cased openings.  
2. Closet doors or cased openings.  3. Pant ry door or cased openings.  
4. Bathrooms accessed directly from a bedroom that is 
not required to comply with this section.  
[ 15. 14. ] Change the exception in Section R311.3.1 to 
read:  
Exception: The landing or floor on the exterior side shall 
not be mo re than 8 -1/4 inches (210 mm) below the top of 
the threshold provided the door does not swing over the 
landing or floor.  
[ 16. 15. ] Change Section R311.7.5.1 to read:  
R311.7.5.1 Risers. The maximum  riser height shall be 
not more than  8-1/4 inches (210 m m). The riser shall be 
measured vertically between the 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 opening between 
treads does  openings located more than 30 inches (763 
mm), as measured vertically, to the  floor or grade below 
do not permit the passage of a 4 -inch-diameter (102 mm) 
sphere.  
Exception  Exceptions :  
1. The opening between adjacent treads is not limited on 
stairs with a total rise of 30 inches (762 mm) or less  
spiral stairways .  
2. The riser he ight of spiral stairways shall be in 
accordance with Section R311.7.10.1.  
[ 17. 16. ] Change Section R311.7.5.2 to read:  
R311.7.5.2 Treads. The minimum  tread depth shall be 
not less than  9 inches (229 mm). The tread depth shall be 
measured horizontally be tween 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).  
[ 18. 17. ] Change  Section R311.7.7 to read:  
R311.7.7 Stairway walking surface. The walking surface 
of treads and landings of stairways shall be level or 
sloped no steeper than one unit vertical in 48 units 
horizontal (2.0% slope).  
[ 19. 18. ] Change Section R312.2.1 to r ead:  
R312.2.1 Window sills. In dwelling units, where the 
opening  top of the sill  of an operable window opening  is 
located more  less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the 
finished floor and greater  than 72 inches (1829 mm) 
above the finished grade or other  surface below on the Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1774  exterior of the building , the lowest part of the clear 
opening of the window shall be a minimum of 18 inches 
(457 mm) above the finished floor of the room in which 
the window is located. Operable sections of windows 
shall not permit openi ngs that allow passage of a 4 -inch-
diameter (102 mm) sphere where such openings are 
located within 18 inches (457 mm) of the finished floor. 
Exceptions:  operable window shall comply with one of 
the following:  
1. Windows whose  Operable windows with  openings  that 
will not allow a 4 -inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere to pass 
through the opening when  where  the opening is in its 
largest opened position.  
2. Openings  Operable windows  that are provided with 
window fall prevention devices that comply with ASTM 
F 2090.  
3. Windows  Operable windows  that are provided with 
window opening control devices that comply with 
Section R312.2.2.  
[ 20. 19. ] Replace Section R313 with the following:  
Section R313.  
Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems.  
R313.1 Townhouse automatic fire sp rinkler systems. 
Notwithstanding the requirements of Section [  103.8  
103.3  ], where installed, an automatic residential fire 
sprinkler system for townhouses shall be designed and 
installed in accordance with NFPA 13D or Section 
P2904.  
Exception: An automa tic residential fire sprinkler system 
shall not be required when additions or alterations are 
made to existing townhouses that do not have an 
automatic residential fire sprinkler system installed.  
R313.2 One -family and two -family dwellings automatic 
fire sprinkler systems. Notwithstanding the requirements 
of Section [  103.8  103.3  ], where installed, an automatic 
residential fire sprinkler system shall be designed and 
installed in accordance with NFPA 13D or Section 
P2904.  
Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system 
shall not be required for additions or alterations to 
existing buildings that are not already provided with an 
automatic residential fire sprinkler system.  
[ 21. ] Change  [ 20. ] Delete  Section R314.2 to read:  
R314.2.2.   
R314.2 Smoke detection systems. Household fire alarm 
systems installed in accordance with NFPA 72 that 
include smoke alarms, or a combination of smoke 
detector and audible notification device installed as 
required by this section fo r smoke alarms, shall be permitted. The household fire alarm system shall provide 
the same level of smoke detection and alarm as required 
by this section for smoke alarms. Where a household fire 
warning system is installed using a combination of 
smoke dete ctor and audible notification device(s), the 
system shall become a permanent fixture of the dwelling 
unit.  
Exception: Where smoke alarms are provided meeting 
the requirements of Section R314.4.  
[ 22. ] Delete  [ 21. ] Change  Section R314.3.1.  R314.7.3 to 
read:  
R314.7.3 Permanent fixture. Where a household fire 
alarm system is installed, it shall become a permanent 
fixture of the dwelling unit.  
[ 23. ] Delete  [ 22. ] Change  Section R315.3.  R315.1.1 to 
read:  
24. Change Section R315.4 to read:  
R315.4 Alar m requirements. Single station carbon  
R315.1.1 Listings. Carbon  monoxide alarms shall be hard 
wired, plug -in or battery type; listed as complying with 
UL 2034; and installed in accordance with this code and 
the manufacturer's installation instructions. Com bination 
carbon monoxide and smoke alarms shall be listed in 
accordance with UL 2034 and UL 217.  
[ 23. 24. ] Change Section R315.2 to read:  
R315.2 Where required. Carbon monoxide alarms shall 
be provided in accordance with this section.  
[ 24. 25. ] Delete Section R315.2.2.  
[ 25. 26. ] Delete Section R315.5.  
[ 26. 27. ] Change Section R315.6.3 to read:  
R315.6.3 Permanent fixture. Where a household carbon 
monoxide detection system is installed, it shall become a 
permanent fixture of the occupancy.  
25. Add Exc eption 3 to Section R317.1.4 to read:  
3. Deck posts supported by concrete piers or metal 
pedestals projecting a minimum of one inch (25.4 mm) 
above a concrete floor or six inches (152 mm) above 
exposed earth.  
26. [ 27. 28. ] Add Section R320.2 to read:  
R320.2 Universal design features for accessibility in 
dwellings. Dwellings constructed under the IRC not 
subject to Section R320.1 may comply with Section 
1109.16 of the USBC and be approved by the local 
building department as dwellings containing universa l 
design features for accessibility.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1775 [ 29. Add Section R326.1.1 to read:   
R326.1.1 Changes to the ISPSC. The following change 
shall be made to the ISPSC:  
1. Change Section 305.2.9 to read:  
305.2.9 Equipment clear zone. Equipment, including 
pool equipmen t such as pumps, filters, and heaters shall 
not be installed within 36 inches (914 mm) of the exterior 
of the barrier when located on the same property.  ]  
27. [ 28. 30. ] Add Section R324  R327  Radon -Resistant 
Construction.  
28. [ 29. 31. ] Add Section R324.1  R327.1  to read:  
R324.1  R327.1  Local enforcement of radon 
requirements. Following official action under Article 7 
(§ 15.2-2280 et seq.) of Chapter 22 of Title 15.2 of the 
Code of Virginia by a locality in areas of high radon 
potential, as indicated b y Zone 1 on the U.S. EPA Map of 
Radon Zones (IRC Figure AF101), such locality shall 
enforce the provisions contained in Appendix F.  
Exception: Buildings or portions thereof with crawl 
space foundations which are ventilated to the exterior, 
shall not be re quired to provide radon -resistant 
construction.  
29. Add Section R325 Swimming Pools.  
30. Add Section R325.1 to read:  
R325.1 Swimming pools. In addition to other applicable 
provisions of this code, swimming pools, as defined in 
the USBC, shall comply with the applicable provisions of 
the ISPSC.  
31. [ 30. 32. ] Add Section R326  R328  Patio Covers.  
32. [ 31. 33. ] Add Sect ion R326.1  R328.1  to read:  
R326.1  R328.1  Use of Appendix H for patio covers. 
Patio covers shall comply with the provisions in 
Appendix H.  
33. [ 32. 34. ] Add Section R327  R329  Sound 
Transmission.  
34. [ 33. 35. ] Add Section R327.1  R329.1  to read:  
R327. 1 R329.1  Sound transmission between dwelling 
units. Construction assemblies separating dwelling units 
shall provide airborne sound insulation as required in 
Appendix K.  
35. [ 34. 36. ] Add Section R327.2  R329.2  to read:  
R327.2  R329.2  Airport noise attenu ation. This section 
applies to the construction of the exterior envelope of 
detached one -family and two -family dwellings and 
multiple single -family dwellings (townhouses) not more 
than three stories high with separate means of egress within airport noise z ones when enforced by a locality 
pursuant to §  15.2-2295 of the Code of Virginia. The 
exterior envelope of such structures shall comply with 
Section 1207.4 of the state amendments to the IBC.  
36. [ 35. 37. ] Add Section R328  R330  Fire Extinguishers.  
37. [ 36. 38. ] Add Section R328.1  R330.1  to read:  
R328.1  R330.1  Kitchen areas. Other than where the 
dwelling is equipped with an approved sprinkler system 
in accordance with Section R313, a fire extinguisher 
having a rating of 2 -A:10 -B:C or an approved equivalent 
type of fire extinguisher shall be installed in the kit chen 
area.  
[ 37. 39. ] Add Section R331 Interior Passage.  
[ 38. 40. ] Add Sections R331.1 through R331.6 to read:  
R331.1 General. This section applies to new dwelling 
units that have both a kitchen and a living area on the 
same floor level as the egress d oor required by Section 
R311.2. This section is not applicable to additions, 
reconstruction, alteration, or repair.  
R331.2 Kitchen. One interior passage route from the 
egress door to the kitchen shall comply with R331.6.  
R331.3 Living area. One interior pa ssage route from the 
egress door to at least one living area shall comply with 
R331.6.  
R331.4 Bedroom. Where the dwelling unit has a 
bedroom on the same floor level as the egress door, one 
interior passage route from the egress door to at least one 
bedroom  shall comply with R331.6.  
R331.5 Bathroom. Where a dwelling unit has a bathroom 
on the same floor level as the egress door, and the 
bathroom contains a water closet, lavatory, and bathtub 
or shower, one interior passage route from the egress 
door to at le ast one bathroom shall comply with R331.6. 
Bathroom fixture clearances shall comply with R307 and 
access to fixtures is not required to comply with R331.6.  
R331.6 Opening widths. Opening widths along the 
interior passage route required by this section shal l 
comply with the following:  
1. Cased openings shall provide a minimum 34 inch (864 
mm) clear width.  
2. Doors shall be a nominal 34 inch (864 mm) minimum 
width. Double doors are permitted to be used to meet this 
requirement.  
38. [ 39. 41. ] Change Section R401.3 to read:  
R401.3 Drainage. Surface drainage shall be diverted to a 
storm sewer conveyance or other approved point of 
collection that does not create a hazard to the dwelling 
unit. Lots shall be graded to drain surface water away Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1776  from foundation wall s. The grade shall fall a minimum of 
six inches (152 mm) within the first 10 feet (3048 mm).  
Exception: Where lot lines, walls, slopes or other 
physical barriers prohibit six inches (152 mm) of fall 
within 10 feet (3048 mm), drains or swales shall be 
constructed to ensure drainage away from the structure. 
Impervious surfaces within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the 
building foundation shall be sloped a minimum of 2.0% 
away from the building.  
39. Change  [ 40. 42. ] Add the following exceptions to  
Section R403.1 to read:  
R403.1 General. All exterior walls shall be supported on 
continuous solid or fully grouted masonry or concrete 
footings, wood foundations, or other approved structural 
systems that shall be of sufficient design to accommodate 
all loads according to Section  R301 and to transmit the 
resulting loads to the soil within the limitations as 
determined from the character of the soil. Footings shall 
be supported on undisturbed natural soils or engineered 
fill.  
Exceptions:  
1. One -story detached accessory structures  used as tool 
and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, not 
exceeding 256 square feet (23.7824 m2) of building area, 
provided all of the following conditions are met:  
1.1. The building eave height is 10 feet or less.  
1.2. The maximum height from th e finished floor level to 
grade does not exceed 18 inches.  
1.3. The supporting structural elements in direct contact 
with the ground shall be placed level on firm soil and 
when such elements are wood they shall be approved 
pressure preservative treated su itable for ground contact 
use.  
1.4. The structure is anchored to withstand wind loads as 
required by this code.  
1.5. The structure shall be of light -frame construction 
whose vertical and horizontal structural elements are 
primarily formed by a system of repetitive wood or light 
gauge steel framing members, with walls and roof of 
light weight material, not slate, tile, brick or masonry.  2. Footings are not required for ramps serving dwelling 
units in Group R -3 and R -5 occupancies where the height 
of the e ntrance is no more than 30 inches (762 mm) 
above grade.  
[ 43. Delete Section R404.1.9.2.   
41. 44. ] Change the exception to Section R408.2 to read:  
Exception: The total area of ventilation openings shall be 
permitted to be reduced to 1/1,500 of the under -floor area 
where the ground surface is covered with an approved 
Class I vapor retarder material and the required openings 
are placed to provide cross ventilation of the space. The 
installation of operable louvers shall not be prohibited 
nor shall the requi red openings need to be within three 
feet (915 mm) of each corner provided there is cross 
ventilation of the space.  
40. [ 42. 45. ] Add Section R408.3.1 to read [  as follows 
and delete Section R501.3 in its entirety  ]:  
R408.3.1 Termite inspection. Where a n unvented crawl 
space is installed and meets the criteria in Section R408, 
the vertical face of the sill plate shall be clear and 
unobstructed and an inspection gap shall be provided 
below the sill plate along the top of any interior 
foundation wall cover ing. The gap shall be a minimum of 
one inch (25.4 mm) and a maximum of two inches (50.8 
mm) in width and shall extend throughout all parts of any 
foundation that is enclosed. Joints between the sill plate 
and the top of any interior wall covering may be se aled.  
Exceptions:  
1. In areas not subject to damage by termites as indicated 
by Table R301.2(1).  
2. Where other approved means are provided to inspect 
for potential damage.  
Where pier and curtain foundations are installed as 
depicted in Figure R404.1.5 (1), the inside face of the rim 
joist and sill plate shall be clear and unobstructed except 
for construction joints which may be sealed.  
Exception: Fiberglass or similar insulation may be 
installed if easily removable.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1777 41. Change the ind icated rows of Table R502.3.1(1) to read:  
Joist 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 psf  Dead Load = 20 psf  
2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum floor joist spans  
(ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) 
12 Southern Pine 
SS 12-3 16-2 20-8 25-1 12-3 16-2 20-8 25-1 
Southern Pine 
#1 11-10 15-7 19 10  24-2 11-10 15-7 18-7 22-0 
Southern Pine 
#2 11-3 14-11 18-1 21-4 10-9 13-8 16-2 19-1 
Southern Pine 
#3 9-2 11-6 14-0 16-6 8-2 10-3 12-6 14-9 
16 Southern Pine 
SS 11-2 14-8 18-9 22-10 11-2 14-8 18-9 22-10 
Southern Pine 
#1 10-9 14-2 18-0 21-4 10-9 13-9 16-1 19-1 
Southern Pine 
#2 10-3 13-3 15-8 18-6 9-4 11-10 14-0 16-6 
Southern Pine 
#3 7-11 10-0 12-1 14-4 7-1 8-11 10-10 12-10 
19.2 Southern Pine 
SS 10-6 13-10 17-8 21-6 10-6 13-10 17-8 21-6 
Southern Pine 
#1 10-1 13-4 16-5 19-6 9-11 12-7 14-8 17-5 
Southern Pine 
#2 9-6 12-1 14-4 16-10 8-6 10-10 12-10 15-1 
Southern Pine 
#3 7-3 9-1 11-0 13-1 6-5 8-2 9-10 11-8 
24 Southern Pine 
SS 9-9 12-10 16-5 19-11 9-9 12-10 16-5 19-8 
Southern Pine 
#1 9-4 12-4 14-8 17-5 8-10 11-3 13-1 15-7 
Southern Pine 
#2 8-6 10-10 12-10 15-1 7-7 9-8 11-5 13-6 
Southern Pine 
#3 6-5 8-2 9-10 11-8 5-9 7-3 8-10 10-5 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1778  42. Change the indicated rows of Table R502.3.1(2) to read:  
Joist 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 psf  Dead Load = 20 psf  
2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum floor joist spans  
(ft.-
in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) 
12 Southern Pine 
SS 11-2 14-8 18-9 22-10 11-2 14-8 18-9 22-10 
Southern Pine 
#1  10-9 14-2 18-0 21-11 10-9 14-2 16-11 20-1 
Southern Pine 
#2 10-3 13-6 16-2 19-1 9-10 12-6 14-9 17-5 
Southern Pine 
#3 8-2 10-3 12-6 14-9 7-5 9-5 11-5 13-6 
16 Southern Pine 
SS 10-2 13-4 17-0 20-9 10-2 13-4 17-0 20-9 
Southern Pine 
#1 9-9 12-10 16-1 19-1 9-9 12-7 14-8 17-5 
Southern Pine 
#2 9-4 11-10 14-0 16-6 8-6 10-10 12-10 15-1 
Southern Pine 
#3 7-1 8-11 10-10 12-10 6-5 8-2 9-10 11-8 
19.2 Southern Pine 
SS 9-6 12-7 16-0 19-6 9-6 12-7 16-0 19-6 
Southern Pine 
#1 9-2 12-1 14-8 17-5 9-0 11-5 13-5 15-11 
Southern Pine 
#2 8-6 10-10 12-10 15-1 7-9 9-10 11-8 13-9 
Southern Pine 
#3 6-5 8-2 9-10 11-8 5-11 7-5 9-0 10-8 
24 Southern Pine 
SS 8-10 11-8 14-11 18-1 8-10 11-8 14-11 18-0 
Southern Pine 
#1 8-6 11-3 13-1 15-7 8-1 10-3 12-0 14-3 
Southern Pine 
#2 7-7 9-8 11-5 13-6 7-0 8-10 10-5 12-4 
Southern Pine 
#3 5-9 7-3 8-10 10-5 5-3 6-8 8-1 9-6 
43. Change footnote "b" in Table R502.3.3(1)  to read:  
b. Spans are based on minimum design properties for No. 2 Grade lumber of Douglas fir -larch, hem -fir, and spruce -pine-fir 
for repetitive (three or more) members. No. 1 or better grade lumber shall be used for southern pine.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1779 44. Change footnote " a" in Table R502.3.3(2) to read:  
a. Spans are based on minimum design properties for No. 2 Grade lumber of Douglas fir -larch, hem -fir, and spruce -pine-fir 
for repetitive (three or more) members. No. 1 or better grade lumber shall be used for southern pine .  
45. Change Section R502.5 to read:  
R502.5 Allowable girder and header spans. The allowable spans of girders and headers fabricated of dimension lumber 
shall not exceed the values set forth in Tables R502.5(1) through R502.5(3).  
46. Change the title an d footnote "b" of Table R502.5(1) to read:  
Table R502.5(1)  
Girder Spansa,b and Header Spansa,b for Exterior Bearing Walls  
(Maximum Spans for Douglas fir -larch, hem -fir, southern pine, and spruce -pine-firb and required number of jack studs)  
b. Spans are based on minimum design properties for No. 2 Grade lumber of Douglas fir -larch, hem -fir, and spruce -pine-
fir. No. 1 or better grade lumber shall be used for southern pine.  
47. Change the title and footnote "b" of Table R502.5(2) to read:  
Table R502.5(2)  
Girder Spansa,b and Header Spansa,b for Interior Bearing Walls  
(Maximum Spans for Douglas fir -larch, hem -fir, southern pine, and spruce -pine-firb and required number of jack studs)  
b. Spans are based on minimum design properties for No. 2 G rade lumber of Douglas fir -larch, hem -fir, and spruce -pine-
fir. No. 1 or better grade lumber shall be used for southern pine.  
48. Add Table R502.5(3) to read:  
Table R502.5(3)  
Girder and Header Spans a for Porches b, c  
(Maximum span for southern pine)  
Supporting  Size Porch Width (ft)  
8 14 
Roof  2-2x4 6'-11" 5'-3" 
2-2x6 9'-11" 7'-6" 
2-2x8 12'-10" 9'-8" 
2-2x10  16'-8" 12'-7" 
2-2x12  19'-6" 14'-9" 
Floor  2-2x4 5'-1" 3'-10" 
2-2x6 7'-4" 5'-6" 
2-2x8 9'-5" 7'-1" 
2-2x10  12'-2" 9'-3" 
2-2x12  14'-4" 10'-10" 
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.  
a. Spans are given in feet and inches.  
b. Tabulated values based on 30 psf ground snow load, L/240 deflection and No. 2 grade lumber.  
c. The values of this table shall be equivalent to a roof live load of 20 psf.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1780  49. [ 43. 46. ] Change Section R506.2.1 to read:  
R506.2.1 Fill. Fill material shall be free of vegetation and foreign material and shall be natural nonorganic material that i s 
not susceptible to swelling when exposed to moisture. The fill shall be compacted to assure uniform support of the slab, 
and exce pt where approved, the fill depth shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm) for clean sand or gravel and 8 inches (203 
mm) for earth.  
Exception: Material other than natural material may be used as fill material when accompanied by a certification from an 
RDP an d approved by the building official.  
50. [ 44. 47. ] Change Section R506.2.2 to read:  
R506.2.2 Base. A 4 -inch-thick (102 mm) base course consisting of clean graded sand, gravel or crushed stone passing a 2 -
inch (51 mm) sieve shall be placed on the prepared subgrade when the slab is below grade.  
Exception: A base course is not required when  the concrete slab is installed on well drained or sand -gravel mixture soils 
classified as Group I according to the United Soil Classification System in accordance with Table R405.1. Material other 
than natural material may be used as base course material when accompanied by a certification from an RDP and approved 
by the building official.  
51. Change Section R507.1 to read:  
R507.1 Decks. Wood -framed decks shall be in accordance with this section or Section R301 for materials and conditions 
not prescribed  in this section. Where supported by attachment to an exterior wall, decks shall be positively anchored to the 
primary structure and designed for both vertical and lateral loads. Such attachment shall not be accomplished by the use of 
toenails or nails sub ject to withdrawal. Where positive connection to the primary building structure cannot be verified 
during inspection, decks shall be self -supporting. For decks with cantilevered framing members, connections to exterior 
walls or other framing members shall be designed and constructed to resist uplift resulting from the full live load specified 
in Table R301.5 acting on the cantilevered portion of the deck.  
52. Add Sections R507.4 through R507.8 to read:  
R507.4 Decking. Maximum allowable spacing for wood jo ists supporting decking shall be in accordance with Table 
R507.4. Wood decking shall be attached to each supporting member with a minimum of two 8d nails or two #8 wood 
screws.  
Table R507.4  
Maximum Joist Spacing (inches)  
Material Type and Nominal Size  Maximum Joist Spacing  
Perpendicular to Joist  Diagonal to Joista 
5/4-inch thick wood  16 12 
2-inch thick wood  24 16 
Wood/plastic composite  per R507.3  per R507.3  
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm  
a. Maximum angle of 45 degrees from perpendicular for wood deck boards.  
 
Editor's Note - Figures R507.5, R507.6, R507.7.1, R507.8.1, and R602.3(2) in this section are being deleted in this action.  
R507.5 Deck joists. Maximum allowable spans for wood deck joists, as shown in Figure R507.5, shall be in accordance 
with Table R507.5. Deck joist shall be permitted to cantilever a maximum of one -fourth of the actual, adjacent joist span.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1781 
 
  
Table R507.5  
Deck Joist Spansa and Cantileversa for Common Lumber Species  
Speciesb Size Allowable Joist Spanc Allowable Cantileverd,e 
Spacing of deck joists (in.)  Spacing of deck joists (in.)  
12 16 24 12 16 24 
Southern pine  2 x 6 9-11 9-0 7-7 1-3 1-4 1-6 
2 x 8  13-1 11-10 9-8 2-1 2-3 2-5 
2 x 10  16-2 14-0 11-5 3-4 3-6 2-10 
2 x 12  18-0 16-6 13-6 4-6 4-2 3-4 
Douglas fir -larchf, 
hem-firf, spruce -pine-
firf 2 x 6  9-6 8-4 6-10 1-2 1-3 1-5 
2 x 8  12-6 11-1 9-1 1-11 2-1 2-3 
2 x 10 15-8 13-7 11-1 3-1 3-5 2-9 
2 x 12  18-0 15-9 12-10 4-6 3-11 3-3 
Redwood, western 
cedars, ponderosa 
pineg, red pineg 2 x 6  8-10 8-0 6-10 1-0 1-1 1-2 
2 x 8  11-8 10-7 8-8 1-8 1-10 2-0 
2 x 10  14-11 13-0 10-7 2-8 2-10 2-8 
2 x 12  17-5 15-1 12-4 3-10 3-9 3-1 
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.  
a. Spans and cantilevers are given in feet and inches.  
b. No. 2 grade with wet service factor.  
c. Ground snow load, live load = 40 psf, dead load = 10 psf, L/Δ = 360.  
d. Ground snow load, live load = 4 0 psf, dead load = 10 psf, L/Δ = 360 at main span, L/Δ = 180 at cantilever with a 220 
pound point load applied to end.  
e. Maximum allowable cantilever shall not exceed one -fourth of the actual joist span.  
f. Includes incising factor.  
g. Northern species wi th no incising factor.  
R507.5.1 Lateral restraint at supports. Joist ends and bearing locations shall be provided with lateral restraint to prevent 
rotation. Where lateral restraint is provided by joist hangers or blocking between joists, their depth shall equal not less t han 
60% of the joist depth. Where lateral restraint is provided by rim joists, they shall be secured to the end of each joist with a 
minimum of (3)10d (3 -inch x 0.128 -inch) nails or (3)#10x3 inch (76 mm) long wood screws.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1782  R507.6 Deck beams. Maximum allowable sp ans for wood deck beams, as shown in Figure R507.6, shall be in accordance 
with Table R507.6. Beam plies shall be fastened with two rows of 10d (3 -inch x 0.128 -inch) nails minimum at 16 inches 
(406 mm) on center along each edge. Beams shall be permitted to  cantilever at each end up to one -fourth of the beam span. 
Splices of multi -span beams shall be located at interior post locations.  
  
Table R507.6  
Deck Beam Spana Lengthsb,c 
Speciesd Sizee Deck Joist Span (feet) Less Than or Equal To:  
6 8 10 12 14 16 18 
Southern pine  2-2x6 6-11 5-11 5-4 4-10 4-6 4-3 4-0 
2-2x8 8-9 7-7 6-9 6-2 5-9 5-4 5-0 
2-2x10  10-4 9-0 8-0 7-4 6-9 6-4 6-0 
2-2x12  12-2 10-7 9-5 8-7 8-0 7-6 7-0 
3-2x6 8-2 7-5 6-8 6-1 5-8 5-3 5-0 
3-2x8 10-10 9-6 8-6 7-9 7-2 6-8 6-4 
3-2x10  13-0 11-3 10-0 9-2 8-6 7-11 7-6 
3-2x12  15-3 13-3 11-10 10-9 10-0 9-4 8-10 
Douglas fir -larchf, 
hem-firf, spruce -
pine-firf, redwood, 
western cedars, 
ponderosa pineg, red 
pineg 3x6 or 2 -2x6 5-5 4-8 4-2 3-10 3-6 3-1 2-9 
3x8 or 2 -2x8 6-10 5-11 5-4 4-10 4-6 4-1 3-8 
3x10 or 2 -
2x10  8-4 7-3 6-6 5-11 5-6 5-1 4-8 
3x12 or 2 -
2x12  9-8 8-5 7-6 6-10 6-4 5-11 5-7 
4x6 6-5 5-6 4-11 4-6 4-2 3-11 3-8 
4x8 8-5 7-3 6-6 5-11 5-6 5-2 4-10 
4x10  9-11 8-7 7-8 7-0 6-6 6-1 5-8 
4x12  11-5 9-11 8-10 8-1 7-6 7-0 6-7 
3-2x6 7-4 6-8 6-0 5-6 5-1 4-9 4-6 
3-2x8 9-8 8-6 7-7 6-11 6-5 6-0 5-8 
3-2x10  12-0 10-5 9-4 8-6 7-10 7-4 6-11 
3-2x12  13-11 12-1 10-9 9-10 9-1 8-6 8-1 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1783 For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.  
a. Spans are given in feet and inches.  
b. Ground snow load, live load = 40 psf, dead load = 10 psf, L/Δ = 360 at main span, L/Δ = 180 at cantilever with a 220 pound point 
load applied at the end.  
c. Beams supporting deck joists from one side only.  
d. No. 2 grade, wet service factor.  
e. Beam depth shall be greater than or equal to depth of joists with a flush beam condition.  
f. Includes incising factor.  
g. Northe rn species with no incising factor.  
R507.7 Deck joist and deck beam bearing. The ends of each joist and beam shall have not less than 1.5 inches (38 mm) of beari ng 
on wood or metal and not less than three inches (76 mm) on concrete or masonry for the enti re width of the beam. Joist framing 
into the side of a ledger board or beam shall be supported by approved joist hangers. Joists bearing on a beam shall be attac hed to 
the beam to resist lateral displacement.  
R507.7.1 Deck beam to deck post. Deck beams shall be attached to deck posts in accordance with Figure R507.7.1 or by other 
equivalent means capable to resist lateral displacement. Manufactured post -to-beam connectors shall be sized for the post and 
beam si zes. All bolts shall have washers under the head and nut.  
Exception: Where deck beams bear directly on footings in accordance with Section R507.8.1.  
  
R507.8 Deck posts. For single level wood -framed decks with beams sized in accordance with Table R507.6, deck post size shall 
be in accordance with Table R507.8.  
Table R507.8  
Deck Post Heighta (feet)  
Deck Post Size  Maximum Heighta 
4x4 8 
4x6 8 
6x6 14 
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.  
a. Measured to the underside of the beam.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1784  R507.8.1 Deck post to deck footing. Posts shall bear on footings in accordance with Section R403 and Figure R507.8.1. 
Posts shall be restrained to prevent lateral displacement at the footing. Lateral restraint shall be provided by manufactured  
connectors i nstalled in accordance with the manufacturers' installation instructions or by a minimum post embedment of 12 
inches (304.8 mm) in surrounding soils or concrete piers.  
 
Figure R507.8.1  
Typical Deck Posts to Deck Footings  
53. Change Section R602.3.1 to read:  
R602.3.1 Stud size, height, and spacing. The size, height, and spacing of studs shall be in accordance with Table 
R602.3(5).  
Exceptions:  
1. Utility grade studs shall not be spaced more than 16 inches (406 mm) on center, shall not support more than a roof  and 
ceiling, and shall not exceed eight feet (2438 mm) in height for exterior walls and load -bearing walls or 10 feet (3048 mm) 
for interior nonload -bearing walls.  
2. Where snow loads are less than or equal to 25 pounds per square foot (1.198 kPa), and t he ultimate design wind speed is 
less than or equal to 130 mph (58.11 m/s), 2 -inch by 6 -inch (38 mm by 140 mm) studs supporting a roof load with not 
more than six feet (1829 mm) of tributary length shall have a maximum height of 18 feet (5486 mm) where spa ced at 16 
inches (406 mm) on center, or 20 feet (6096 mm) where spaced at 12 inches (305 mm) on center. Studs shall be minimum 
No. 2 grade lumber.  
54. Delete Table R602.3.1.  
[ 48. Change Item 4 in Table R602.3(1) to read:  
4 Ceiling joist attached to para llel rafter (heel joint) (see 
Sections R802.3.1 and R802.3.2 and Table R802.5.1(9))  Table R802.5.2  Face nail  ]  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1785 55. Change Figure R602.3(2) to read:  
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1786  [ 45. 49. ] Change Table R602.7(1) to read:  
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1787  
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1788   
 
 
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1789 
 
 
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1790  
 
 
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1791 
 
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1792   
[ 46. 50. ] Change Table R602.7(2) to read:  
Table R602.7(2)  
Girder Spansa and Header Spansa for Interior Bearing Walls  
(Maximum spans for Douglas Fir -Larch, Hem -Fir, Southern Pine, and Spruce -Pine Firb and required number of jack studs)  
Headers and 
Girde rs 
Supporting  Size Building Widthc (feet)  
12 24 36 
Spane NJd Spane NJd Spane NJd 
One floor only  2-2 x 4  4-1 1 2-10 1 2-4 1 
2-2 x 6  6-1 1 4-4 1 3-6 1 
2-2 x 8  7-9 1 5-5 1 4-5 2 
2-2 x 10  9-2 1 6-6 2 5-3 2 
2-2 x 12  10-9 1 7-7 2 6-3 2 
3-2 x 8  9-8 1 6-10 1 5-7 1 
3-2 x 10  11-5 1 8-1 1 6-7 2 
3-2 x 12  13-6 1 9-6 2 7-9 2 
4-2 x 8  11-2 1 7-11 1 6-5 1 
4-2 x 10  13-3 1 9-4 1 7-8 1 
4-2 x 12  15-7 1 11-0 1 9-0 2 
Two floors  2-2 x 4  2-7 1 1-11 1 1-7 1 
2-2 x 6  3-11 1 2-11 2 2-5 2 
2-2 x 8  5-0 1 3-8 2 3-1 2 
2-2 x 10  5-11 2 4-4 2 3-7 2 
2-2 x 12  6-11 2 5-2 2 4-3 3 
3-2 x 8  6-3 1 4-7 2 3-10 2 
3-2 x 10  7-5 1 5-6 2 4-6 2 
3-2 x 12  8-8 2 6-5 2 5-4 2 
4-2 x 8  7-2 1 5-4 1 4-5 2 
4-2 x 10  8-6 1 6-4 2 5-3 2 
4-2 x 12  10-1 1 7-5 2 6-2 2 
a. Spans are given in feet and inches.  
b. Spans are based on the minimum design properties for No. 2 grade lumber of Douglas Fir -Larch, Hem -Fir, Southern Pine, 
and Spruce -Pine Fir.  
c. Building width is measured perpendicular to the ridge. For widths between those s hown, spans are permitted to be 
interpolated.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1793 d. NJ - Number of jack studs required to support each end. Where the number of required jack studs equals one, the header is 
permitted to be supported by an approved framing anchor attached to the full -height w all stud and to the header.  
e. Spans are calculated assuming the top of the header or girder is laterally braced by perpendicular framing. Where the top of 
the header or girder is not laterally braced (e.g., cripple studs bearing on the header), tabulated spans for headers consisting of 
2x8, 2x10, or 2x12 sizes shall be multiplied by 0.70 or the header shall be designed.  
56. Change the column entries under the heading "Wood Species" in Table R602.7.1 to read:  
  Spruce -Pine-Fir 
Hem -Fir 
Douglas -Fir or No. 1  Grade Southern Pine  
57. Add Section R602.7.4 to read:  
R602.7.4 Supports for headers. Headers shall be supported on each end with one or more jack studs in accordance with 
Table R505.5(1) or Table R502.5(2). A king stud shall be adjacent to the jack stud on each end of the header and nailed at 
each end of the header with 4 -12d nails.  
58. [ 47. 51. ] Change Section R602.10 to read:  
R602.10 Wall bracing. Buildings shall be braced in accordance with this section or Section R602.12. Where a building, or 
portion thereof, does not comply with one or more of the bra cing requirements in this section, those portions shall be 
designed and constructed in accordance with Section R301.1.  
The building official shall be permitted to require the permit applicant to identify braced wall lines and braced wall panels  
on the con struction documents as described in this section and provide associated analysis. The building official shall be 
permitted to waive the analysis of the upper floors where the cumulative length of wall openings of each upper floor wall is 
less than or equal  to the length of the openings of the wall directly below.  
59. Change the following row and footnotes in Table R602.10.3(1) to read:  
Basic 
Wind 
Speed 
(mph)  Story 
Location  Braced 
Wall Line 
Spacingb 
(feet)  Method 
LIBc Method GB  Methods DWB, 
WSP, SFB, PBS, 
PCP, HPS, BV -
WSP, ABW, PFH, 
PFG, CS -SFBd Methods CS -
WSP, CS -G, 
CS-PF 
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 305 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.  
a. Linear interpolation shall be permitted.  
b. Where a braced wall line has parallel braced wall lines on one or both sides of differing dimensions, the average 
dimension shall be permitted to be used for braced wall line spacing.  
c. Method LIB shall have gypsum board fastened to at least one side with nails or screws per Table R602.3(1) for 
exterior sheathing or Tab le R702.3.5 for interior gypsum board. Spacing of fasteners at panel edges shall not exceed 
eight inches (203 mm).  
d. Method CS -SFB does not apply where the wind speed is greater than 100 mph.  
60. Change Section R602.10.4.1 to read:  
R602.10.4.1 Mixing me thods. Mixing of bracing methods shall be permitted as follows:  
1. Mixing bracing methods from braced wall line to braced wall line shall be permitted.  
2. Mixing intermittent bracing methods along a braced wall line shall be permitted in Seismic Design Categories A and B, 
and detached dwellings in Seismic Design Category C, provided the length of bracing in accordance with Table 
R602.10.3(1) or R602.10.3( 3) is the highest value of all bracing methods used.  
3. Mixing of methods CS -WSP, CS -G, CS -PF, ABW, PFH, and PFG along a braced wall line shall be permitted.  
4. In Seismic Design Categories A and B, and detached dwellings in Seismic Design Category C, mi xing of intermittent 
bracing methods along the interior portion of a braced wall line with continuous sheathing methods along the exterior Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1794  portion of the same braced wall line shall be permitted. The length of required bracing shall be the highest value of  all 
bracing methods used in accordance with Table R602.10.3(1) or R602.10.3(3). The requirements of Section R602.10.7 
shall apply to each end of the continuously sheathed portions of the braced wall line.  
61. Change the "CS -PF" row of Table R602.10.5 to read:  
  CS-PF 16 18 20 22e 24e 1.5 x Actualb 
62. Change Items 3.3 and 3.4 of Section R602.10.8.2 to read:  
3.3. Blocking panels provided by the roof truss manufacturer and designed in accordance with Section R802.10.  
3.4. Blocking, blocking panels, or other methods of lateral load transfer designed in accordance with the AWC WFCM or 
accepted engineering practice.  
[ 52. Change Section R602.10.9 to read:   
R602.10.9 Braced wall panel support. Braced wall panel support sh all be provided as follows:  
1. Cantilevered floor joists complying with Section R502.3.3 shall be permitted to support braced wall panels.  
2. Raised floor system post or pier foundations supporting braced wall panels shall be designed in accordance with 
accepted engineering practice.  
3. Masonry stem walls with a length of 48 inches (1219 mm) or less supporting braced wall panels shall be reinforced in 
accordance with Figure R602.10.9. Masonry stem walls with a length greater than 48 inches (1219 mm) support ing braced 
wall panels shall be constructed in accordance with Section R403.1 Methods ABW and PFH shall not be permitted to 
attach to masonry stem walls.  
4. Concrete stem walls with a length of 48 inches (1219 mm) or less, greater than 12 inches (305 mm) t all and less than 6 
inches (152 mm) thick shall have reinforcement sized and located in accordance with Figure R602.10.9.  
Exception: For masonry stem walls, an approved post -installed adhesive anchoring system shall be permitted as an 
alternative to the Op tional Stem Wall Reinforcement detail in Figure R602.10.9. A minimum of two anchors shall be 
installed as indicated in Figure R602.10.9. Anchors shall be located not more than 4 inches (102 mm) from each end of the 
stem wall. Anchors shall be installed int o the concrete footing as follows:  
1. Five -eighth inch (16 mm) treaded rod using a 3/4 inch (19 mm) diameter drilled hole with a minimum embedment of 6 
inches (152 mm).  
2. Number 4 size reinforcing bar using a 5/8 -inch (16 mm) diameter drilled hole with a minimum embedment of 4 -1/2 
inches (114 mm).  
A minimum footing thickness of 8 inches (203 mm) is required and the minimum distance from each anchor to the edge of 
the footing shall be 3 -3/4 inches (95 mm). The anchoring adhesive and anchors shall be install ed in accordance with the 
manufacturer's instructions and have a minimum tensile capacity of 5,000 lbs. (22 kN). The bond beam reinforcement and 
attachment of braced wall panels to the stem wall shall be as shown in Figure R602.10.9.  ]  
63. Change Item 3 o f Section R602.10.10 to read:  
3. Where the bracing length provided is at least twice the minimum length required by Table R602.10.3(1) and Table 
R602.10.3(3), blocking at horizontal joints shall not be required in braced wall panels constructed using Methods WSP, 
SFB, GB, PBS, HPS, CS -WSP or CS -SFB.  
64. Change Section R602.10.11 to read:  
R602.10.11 Cripple wall bracing. Cripple walls shall be constructed in accordance with Section R602.9 and braced in 
accordance with this section. Cripple walls shall be braced with the length and meth od of bracing used for the wall above 
in accordance with Tables R602.10.3(1) and R602.10.3(3), and the applicable adjustment factors in Tables R602.10.3(2) 
and R602.10.3(4), respectively, except the length of the cripple wall bracing shall be multiplied by  a factor of 1.15. Cripple 
wall bracing shall comply with Section R602.10.4.3.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1795 65. [ 48. 53. ] Replace Section R602.12, including all subsections, with the following:  
R602.12 Practical wall bracing. All buildings in Seismic Design Categories A and B and detached buildings in Seismic 
Design Category C shall be permitted to be braced in accordance with this section as an alternative to the requirements of 
Section R602.10.  Where a building, or portion thereof, does not comply with one or more of the bracing requirements in 
this section, those portions shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Section R301.1. The use of other bracing 
provisions of Section R602.10,  except as specified herein, shall not be permitted.  
The building official shall be permitted to require the permit applicant to identify bracing on the construction documents 
and provide associated analysis. The building official shall be permitted to wa ive the analysis of the upper floors where the 
cumulative length of wall openings of each upper floor wall is less than or equal to the length of the openings of the wall 
directly below.  
R602.12.1 Sheathing materials. The following materials shall be perm itted for use as sheathing for wall bracing. Exterior 
walls shall be sheathed on all sheathable surfaces, including infill areas between bracing locations, above and below wall 
openings, and on gable end walls.  
1. Wood structural panels with a minimum thi ckness of 7/16 inch (9.5 mm) fastened in accordance with Table R602.3(3).  
2. Structural fiberboard sheathing with a minimum thickness of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) fastened in accordance with Table 
R602.3(1).  
3. Gypsum board with a minimum thickness of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) fastened in accordance with Table R702.3.5 on interior 
walls only.  
R602.12.2 Braced wall panels. Braced wall panels shall be full -height wall sections sheathed with the materials listed in 
Section R602.12.1 and complying with the following:  
1. Exterior braced wall panels shall have a minimum length based on the height of the adjacent opening as specified in 
Table R602.12.2. Panels with openings on both sides of differing heights shall be governed by the taller opening when 
determining panel leng th.  
2. Interior braced wall panels shall have a minimum length of 48 inches (1220 mm) when sheathing material is applied to 
one side. Doubled -sided applications shall be permitted to be considered two braced wall panels.  
3. Braced wall panels shall be pe rmitted to be constructed of Methods ABW, PFH, PFG, and CS -PF in accordance with 
Section R602.10.4.  
4. Exterior braced wall panels, other than the methods listed in Item 3 above shall have a finish material installed on the 
interior. The finish material s hall consist of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board or equivalent and shall be permitted to be 
omitted where the required length of bracing, as determined in Section R602.12.4, is multiplied by 1.40, unless otherwise 
required by Section R302.6.  
5. Vertical sh eathing joints shall occur over and be fastened to common studs.  
6. Horizontal sheathing joints shall be edge nailed to 1 -1/2 inch (38 mm) minimum thick common blocking.  
Table R602.12.2  
Braced Wall Panel Lengths  
Location  
Wall Height (feet)  
8 9 10 11 12 
Minimum Panel Length (inches)  
Adjacent garage door of one -story garagea 24 27 30 33 36 
Adjacent all other openingsb           
Clear opening height (inches) ≤ 64  24 27 30 33 36 
Clear opening height (inches) ≤ 72  27 27 30 33 36 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1796  Clear opening height (inches) ≤ 80  30 30 30 33 36 
Clear opening height (inches) > 80  36 36 36 40 40  
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.  
a. Braced wall panels supporting a gable end wall or roof load only.  
b. Interpolation shall be permitted.  
R602.12.3 Circumscribed rectangle. Required length of bracing shall be determined by circumscribing one or more 
rectangles around the entire building or portions thereof as shown in Figure R602.12.3. Rectangles shall surround all 
enclosed offsets and proje ctions such as sunrooms and attached garages. Chimneys, partial height projections, and open 
structures, such as carports and decks, shall be excluded from the rectangle. Each rectangle shall have no side greater than 
80 feet (24 384 mm) with a maximum 3:1  ratio between the long and short side. Rectangles shall be permitted to be 
skewed to accommodate angled projections as shown in Figure R602.12.4.3.  
 
R602.12.4 Required length of bracing. The required length of bracing for each side of a circumscribed rectangle shall be 
determined using Table R602.12.4. Where multiple rectangles share a common side or sides, the required length of bracing 
shall equal th e sum of the required lengths from all shared rectangle sides.  
Table R602.12.4  
Required Length of Bracing Along Each Side of a Circumscribed Rectanglea,b,c  
Wind 
Speed  Eave -
to-
Ridge 
Height 
(feet)  Number 
of Floor 
Levels 
Abovee,f Required Length of Bracing  on Front/Rear Side 
(feet)  Required Length of Bracing on Left/Right Side 
(feet)  
Length of Left/Right Side (feet)  Length of Front/Rear Side (feet)  
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 
90 
115 10 0 2.0 3.5 5.0 6.0 7.5 9.0 10.5 12.0 2.0 3.5 5.0 6.0 7.5 9.0 10.5 12.0 
1d 3.5 6.5 9.0 12.0 14.5 17.0 19.8 22.6 3.5 6.5 9.0 12.0 14.5 17.0 19.8 22.6 
2d 5.0 9.5 13.5 17.5 21.5 25.0 29.2 33.4 5.0 9.5 13.5 17.5 21.5 25.0 29.2 33.4 
15 0 2.6 4.6 6.5 7.8 9.8 11.7 13.7 15.7 2.6 4.6 6.5 7.8 9.8 11.7 13.7 15.7 
1d 4.0 7.5 10.4 13.8 16.7 19.6 22.9 26.2 4.0 7.5 10.4 13.8 16.7 19.6 22.9 26.2 
2d 5.5 10.5 14.9 19.3 23.7 27.5 32.1 36.7 5.5 10.5 14.9 19.3 23.7 27.5 32.1 36.7 
20 0 2.9 5.2 7.3 8.8 11.1 13.2 15.4 17.6 2.9 5.2 7.3 8.8 11.1 13.2 15.4 17.6 
1d 4.5 8.5 11.8 15.6 18.9 22.1 25.8 29.5 4.5 8.5 11.8 15.6 18.9 22.1 25.8 29.5 
2d 6.2 11.9 16.8 21.8 27.3 31.1 36.3 41.5 6.2 11.9 16.8 21.8 27.3 31.1 36.3 41.5 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1797 100 
130 10 0 2.5 4.0 6.0 7.5 9.5 11.0 12.8 14.6 2.5 4.0 6.0 7.5 9.5 11.0 12.8 14.6 
1d 4.5 8.0 11.0 14.5 18.0 21.0 24.5 28.0 4.5 8.0 11.0 14.5 18.0 21.0 24.5 28.0 
2d 6.0 11.5 16.5 21.5 26.5 31.0 36.2 41.4 6.0 11.5 16.5 21.5 26.5 31.0 36.2 41.4 
15 0 3.4 5.2 7.8 9.8 12.4 14.3 16.7 19.1 3.4 5.2 7.8 9.8 12.4 14.3 16.7 19.1 
1d 5.2 9.2 12.7 16.7 20.7 24.2 28.2 32.2 5.2 9.2 12.7 16.7 20.7 24.2 28.2 32.2 
2d 6.6 12.7 18.2 23.7 29.2 34.1 39.8 45.5 6.6 12.7 18.2 23.7 29.2 34.1 39.8 45.5 
20 0 3.8 5.9 8.8 11.1 14.0 16.2 18.9 21.6 3.8 5.9 8.8 11.1 14.0 16.2 18.9 21.6 
1d 5.9 10.4 14.4 18.9 23.4 27.3 31.8 36.3 5.9 10.4 14.4 18.9 23.4 27.3 31.8 36.3 
2d 7.5 14.4 20.6 26.8 33.0 38.5 44.9 51.3 7.5 14.4 20.6 26.8 33.0 38.5 44.9 51.3 
For SI: 1 ft = 304.8 mm.  
a. Interpolation shall be permitted; extrapolation shall be prohibited.  
b. For Exposure Category C, multiply the required  length of bracing by a factor of 1.20 for a one -story building, 1.30 for a 
two-story building, and 1.40 for a three -story building.  
c. For wall height adjustments multiply the required length of bracing by the following factors: 0.90 for 8 feet (2438 mm),  
0.95 for 9 feet (2743 mm), 1.0 for 10 feet (3048 mm), 1.05 for 11 feet (3353 mm), and 1.10 for 12 feet (3658 mm).  
d. Where braced wall panels supporting stories above have been sheathed in wood structural panels with edge fasteners 
spaced at 4 inches (102  mm) on center, multiply the required length of bracing by 0.83.  
e. A floor level, habitable or otherwise, contained wholly within the roof rafters or trusses shall not be considered a floor  level 
for purposes of determining the required length of bracing.  
f. A rectangle side with differing number of floor levels above shall use the greatest number when determining the required 
length of bracing.  
R602.12.4.1 Braced wall panel assignment to rectangle sides. Braced wall panels shall be assigned to the applicable 
rectangle side and contribute to its required length of bracing. Panels shall be assigned as specified below and as shown in 
Figure R602.12. 4.1.  
1. Exterior braced wall panels shall be assigned to the parallel rectangle side on which they are located or in which they 
face.  
2. Interior braced wall panels shall be assigned to the parallel rectangle side on which they are located or in which th ey face 
up to 4 feet (1220 mm) away. Interior braced wall panels more than 4 feet (1220 mm) away from a parallel rectangle side 
shall not contribute.  
3. The projections of angled braced wall panels shall be assigned to the adjacent rectangle sides.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1798  
 
R602.12.4.2 Contributing length. The cumulative contributing length of braced wall panels assigned to a rectangle side 
shall be greater than or equal to the required length of bracing as determined in Section R602.12.4. The contributing length 
of a braced wall panel shall be as specified below. When applying contributing length to angled braced wall panels, apply 
the requirements below to each projection:  
1. Exterior braced wall panels shall contribute their actual length.  
2. Interior braced wall panels s hall contribute one -half of their actual length.  
3. The contributing length of Methods ABW, PFH, PFG, and CS -PF shall be in accordance with Table R602.10.5.  
R602.12.4.3 Common sides with skewed rectangles. Braced wall panels located on a common wall wher e skewed 
rectangles intersect, as shown in Figure R602.12.4.3, shall be permitted to be assigned to the parallel rectangle side, and 
their projections shall be permitted to be assigned to the adjacent skewed rectangle sides.  
 
R602.12.5 Cripple walls and framed walls of walk -out basements. For rectangle sides with cripple walls having a 
maximum height of 48 inches (1220 mm), the required length of bracing shall be as determined in Section R602.12.4. For 
rectangle sides with crip ple walls having a height greater than 48 inches (1220 mm) at any location or framed walls of a 
walk -out basement, the required length of bracing shall be determined using Table R602.12.4. Braced wall panels within 
cripple walls and walls of walk -out basem ents shall comply with Item 4 of Section R602.12.2.  
R602.12.6 Distribution of braced wall panels. Braced wall panels shall be distributed in accordance with the following 
requirements as shown in Figure R602.12.6.  
1. The edge of a braced wall panel shall  be no more than 12 feet (3658 mm) from any building corner or rectangle corner.  
2. The distance between adjacent edges of braced wall panels shall be no more than 20 feet (6096 mm).  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1799 3. Segments of exterior walls greater than 8 feet (2438 mm) in length s hall have a minimum of one braced wall panel.  
4. Segments of exterior wall 8 feet (2438 mm) or less in length shall be permitted to have no braced wall panels.  
 
R602.12.6.1 Panels adjacent to balloon framed walls. Braced wall panels shall be placed on each side of each story 
adjacent to balloon framed walls designed in accordance with Section R602.3 with a maximum height of two stories.  
R602.12.7 Braced wall pane l connection. Braced wall panels shall be connected to other structural elements in accordance 
with Section R602.10.8.  
R602.12.8 Braced wall panel support. Braced wall panels shall be supported in accordance with Section R602.10.9.  
[ 54. Change Sections R802.2 and R802.3 to read:   
R802.2 Design and construction. The roof and ceiling assembly shall provide continuous ties across the structure to prevent 
roof thrust from being applied to the supporting walls. The assembly shall be designed and constructed i n accordance with 
the provisions of this chapter and Figures R606.11(1), R606.11(2) and R606.11(3) or in accordance with AWC NDS.  
R802.3 Ridge. A ridge board used to connect opposing rafters shall be not less than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness and 
not less in depth than the cut end of the rafter. Where ceiling joist or rafter ties do not provide a continuous ties across the 
structure, a ridge beam shall be provided and supported on each end by a wall or girder.   
55. Delete Sections R802.3.1, R802.3.2 and  R802.3.3.  
56. Change Section R802.4 and add Section R802.4.1 to read:  
R802.4 Rafters. Rafters shall be in accordance with this section.  
R802.4.1 Rafter size. Rafters shall be sized based on the rafter spans in Tables R802.4.1(1) through R802.4.1(8). Ra fter 
spans shall be measured along the horizontal projection of the rafter. For other grades and species and for other loading 
conditions, refer to the AWC STJR.  
57. Change the titles of Tables R802.4(1) and R802.4(2) to Tables R802.5.1(1) and R802.5.1(2) , respectively, and change 
the titles of Tables R802.5.1(1) through R802.5.1(8) to Tables R802.4.1(1) through R802.4.1(8), respectively.  ]  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1800  66. Change the indicated rows of Table R802.4(1) to read:  
Ceiling Joist 
Spacing (inches)  Species and Grade  Dead Loa d = 5 psf  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  
Maximum ceiling joist spans  
(feet-inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-inches)  
12 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  12-11 
12-5 
11-10 
10-1 20-3 
19-6 
18-8 
14-11 Note a  
25-8 
24-7 
18-9 Note a  
Note a  
Note a  
22-9 
16 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  11-9 
11-3 
10-9 
8-9 18-5 
17-8 
16-11 
12-11 24-3 
23-4 
21-7 
16-3 Note a  
Note a  
25-7 
19-9 
19.2 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3 11-0 
10-7 
10-2 
8-0 17-4 
16-8 
15-7 
11-9 22-10 
22-0 
19-8 
14-10 Note a  
Note a  
23-5 
18-0 
24 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  10-3 
9-10 
9-3 
7-2 16-1 
15-6 
13-11 
10-6 21-2 
20-5 
17-7 
13-3 Note a  
24-0 
20-11 
16-1 
67. Change the indicated rows of Table R802.4(2) to read:  
Ceiling Joist 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species and Grade  Dead Load = 10 psf  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  
Maximum ceiling joist spans  
(feet-inches)  (feet-inches)  (feet-inches)  (feet-inches)  
12 Southern Pine SS 
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  10-3 
9-10 
9-3 
7-2 16-1 
15-6 
13-11 
10-6 21-2 
20-5 
17-7 
13-3 Note a  
24-0 
20-11 
16-1 
16 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  9-4 
8-11 
8-0 
6-2 14-7 
14-0 
12-0 
9-2 19-3 
17-9 
15-3 
11-6 24-7 
20-9 
18-1 
14-0 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1801 19.2 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  8-9 
8-5 
7-4 
5-8 13-9 
12-9 
11-0 
8-4 18-2 
16-2 
13-11 
10-6 23-1 
18-11 
16-6 
12-9 
24 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  8-1 
7-8 
6-7 
5-1 12-9 
11-5 
9-10 
7-5 16-10 
14-6 
12-6 
9-5 21-6 
16-11 
14-9 
11-5 
[ 58. Add Sections R802.4.2 through R802.4.5 to read:  
R802.4.2 Framing details. Rafters shall be framed not more than 1 -1/2 inches (38 mm) offset from each other to a ridge board or 
directly opposite from each other with a collar tie, gusset plate or ridge strap in accordance with Table R602.3(1). Rafters shall be 
nailed to the top wall plates in accordance with Table R602.3(1) unless the roof assembly is required to comply with the upli ft 
requirements of Section R802.11.  
R802.4.3 Hips and valleys. Hip and valley rafters shall be not less than 2 inches (51 mm ) nominal in thickness and not less in 
depth than the cut end of the rafter. Hip and valley rafters shall be supported at the ridge by a brace to a bearing partitio n or be 
designed to carry and distribute the specific load at that point.  
R802.4.4 Rafter s upports. Where the roof pitch is less than 3:12 (25% slope), structural members that support rafters, such as 
ridges, hips and valleys, shall be designed as beams, and bearing shall be provided for rafters in accordance with Section R8 02.6.  
R802.4.5 Purli ns. Installation of purlins to reduce the span of rafters is permitted as shown in Figure R802.4.5. Purlins shall be 
sized not less than the required size of the rafters that they support. Purlins shall be continuous and shall be supported by  2-inch 
by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) braces installed to bearing walls at a slope not less than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) from the horizontal. 
The braces shall be spaced not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center and the unbraced length of braces shall not exceed 8 feet  
(2438 mm).   
59. Add Figure R802.4.5 to read:  
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1802  60. Add Section R802.4.6 to read:  
R802.4.6 Collar ties. Whe re collar ties are used to connect opposing rafters, they shall be located in the upper third of the 
attic space and fastened in accordance with Table R602.3(1). Collar ties shall be not less than 1 inch by 4 inches (25 mm 
by 102 mm) nominal, spaced not mo re than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center. Ridge straps in accordance with Table R602.3(1) 
shall be permitted to replace collar ties.  ]  
68. Change the indicated rows of Table R802.5.1(1) to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species 
and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 psf  Dead  Load = 20 psf  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spansa 
(feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  
12 Southern 
Pine SS  11-3 17-8 23-4 Note b  Note b  11-3 17-8 23-4 Note b  Note b  
Southern 
Pine #1  10-10 17-0 22-5 Note b  Note b  10-6 15-8 19-10 23-2 Note b  
Southern 
Pine #2  10-4 15-7 19-8 23-5 Note b  9-0 13-6 17-1 20-3 23-10 
Southern 
Pine #3  8-0 11-9 14-10 18-0 21-4 6-11 10-2 12-10 15-7 18-6 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  10-3 16-1 21-2 Note b  Note b  10-3 16-1 21-2 25-7 Note b  
Southern 
Pine #1  9-10 15-6 19-10 23-2 Note b  9-1 13-7 17-2 20-1 23-10 
Southern 
Pine #2  9-0 13-6 17-1 20-3 23-10 7-9 11-8 14-9 17-6 20-8 
Southern 
Pine #3  6-11 10-2 12-10 15-7 18-6 6-0 8-10 11-2 13-6 16-0 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  9-8 15-2 19-11 25-5 Note b  9-8 15-2 19-7 23-4 Note b  
Southern 
Pine #1  9-3 14-3 18-1 21-2 25-2 8-4 12-4 15-8 18-4 21-9 
Southern 
Pine #2  8-2 12-3 15-7 18-6 21-9 7-1 10-8 13-6 16-0 18-10 
Southern 
Pine #3  6-4 9-4 11-9 14-3 16-10 5-6 8-1 10-2 12-4 14-7 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  8-11 14-1 18-6 23-8 Note b  8-11 13-10 17-6 20-10 24-8 
Southern 
Pine #1  8-7 12-9 16-2 18-11 22-6 7-5 11-1 14-0 16-5 19-6 
Southern 
Pine #2  7-4 11-0 13-11 16-6 19-6 6-4 9-6 12-1 14-4 16-10 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-8 8-4 10-6 12-9 15-1 4-11 7-3 9-1 11-0 13-1 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1803 69. Change the indicated rows of Table R802.5.1(2) to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species 
and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 psf  Dead Load = 20 psf  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spansa 
(feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  
12 Southern 
Pine SS  10-3 16-1 21-2 Note b  Note b  10-3 16-1 21-2 Note b  Note b  
Southern 
Pine #1  9-10 15-6 20-5 Note b  Note b  9-10 15-6 19-10 23-2 Note b  
Southern 
Pine #2  9-5 14-9 19-6 23-5 Note b  9-0 13-6 17-1 20-3 23-10 
Southern 
Pine #3  8-0 11-9 14-10 18-0 21-4 6-11 10-2 12-10 15-7 18-6 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  9-4 14-7 19-3 24-7 Note b  9-4 14-7 19-3 24-7 Note b  
Southern 
Pine #1  8-11 14-1 18-6 23-2 Note b  8-11 13-7 17-2 20-1 23-10 
Southern 
Pine #2  8-7 13-5 17-1 20-3 23-10 7-9 11-8 14-9 17-6 20-8 
Southern 
Pine #3  6-11 10-2 12-10 15-7 18-6 6-0 8-10 11-2 13-6 16-0 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  8-9 13-9 18-2 23-1 Note b  8-9 13-9 18-2 23-1 Note b  
Southern 
Pine #1  8-5 13-3 17-5 21-2 25-2 8-4 12-4 15-8 18-4 21-9 
Southern 
Pine #2  8-1 12-3 15-7 16-6 21-9 7-1 10-8 13-6 16-0 18-10 
Southern 
Pine #3  6-4 9-4 11-9 14-3 16-10 5-6 8-1 10-2 12-4 14-7 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  8-1 12-9 16-10 21-6 Note b  8-1 12-9 16-10 20-10 24-8 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-10 12-3 16-2 18-11 22-6 7-6 11-1 14-0 16-5 19-6 
Southern 
Pine #2  7-4 11-0 13-11 16-6 19-6 6-4 9-6 12-1 14-4 16-10 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-8 8-4 10-6 12-9 15-1 4-11 7-3 9-1 11-0 13-1 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1804  70. Change the indicated rows of Table R802.5.1(3) to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species 
and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 psf  Dead Load = 20 psf  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spansa 
(feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  
12 Southern 
Pine SS  9-10 15-6 20-5 Note b  Note b  9-10 15-6 20-5 25-4 Note b  
Southern 
Pine #1  9-6 14-10 19-0 22-3 Note b  9-0 13-5 17-0 19-11 23-7 
Southern 
Pine #2  8-7 12-11 16-4 19-5 22-10 7-8 11-7 14-8 17-4 20-5 
Southern 
Pine #3  6-7 9-9 12-4 15-0 17-9 5-11 8-9 11-0 13-5 15-10 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  8-11 14-1 18-6 23-8 Note b  8-11 14-1 18-5 21-11 25-11 
Southern 
Pine #1  8-7 13-0 16-6 19-3 22-10 7-10 11-7 14-9 17-3 20-5 
Southern 
Pine #2  7-6 11-2 14-2 16-10 19-10 6-8 10-0 12-8 15-1 17-9 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-9 8-6 10-8 13-0 15-4 5-2 7-7 9-7 11-7 13-9 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  8-5 13-3 17-5 22-3 Note b  8-5 13-3 16-10 20-0 23-7 
Southern 
Pine #1  8-0 11-10 15-1 17-7 20-11 7-1 10-7 13-5 15-9 18-8 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-10 10-2 12-11 15-4 18-1 6-1 9-2 11-7 13-9 16-2 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-3 7-9 9-9 11-10 14-0 4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  7-10 12-3 16-2 20-0 23-7 7-10 11-10 15-0 17-11 21-2 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-1 10-7 13-5 15-9 18-8 6-4 9-6 12-0 14-1 16-8 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-1 9-2 11-7 13-9 16-2 5-5 8-2 10-4 12-3 14-6 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 4-2 6-2 7-10 9-6 11-2 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1805 71. Change the indicated rows of Table R802.5.1(4) to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species 
and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 psf  Dead Load = 20 psf  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spansa 
(feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  
12 Southern 
Pine SS  8-4 13-1 17-2 21-11 Note b  8-4 13-1 17-2 21-5 25-3 
Southern 
Pine #1  8-0 12-3 15-6 18-2 21-7 7-7 11-4 14-5 16-10 20-0 
Southern 
Pine #2  7-0 10-6 13-4 15-10 18-8 6-6 9-9 12-4 14-8 17-3 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-5 8-0 10-1 12-3 14-6 5-0 7-5 9-4 11-4 13-5 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  7-6 11-10 15-7 19-11 23-7 7-6 11-10 15-7 18-6 21-10 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-1 10-7 13-5 15-9 18-8 6-7 9-10 12-5 14-7 17-3 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-1 9-2 11-7 13-9 16-2 5-8 8-5 10-9 12-9 15-0 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 4-4 6-5 8-1 9-10 11-7 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  7-1 11-2 14-8 18-3 21-7 7-1 11-2 14-2 16-11 20-0 
Southern 
Pine #1  6-6 9-8 12-3 14-4 17-1 6-0 9-0 11-4 13-4 15-9 
Southern 
Pine #2  5-7 8-4 10-7 12-6 14-9 5-2 7-9 9-9 11-7 13-8 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-3 6-4 8-0 9-8 11-5 4-0 5-10 7-4 8-11 10-7 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  6-7 10-4 13-8 16-4 19-3 6-7 10-0 12-8 15-2 17-10 
Southern 
Pine #1  5-10 8-8 11-0 12-10 15-3 5-5 8-0 10-2 11-11 14-1 
Southern 
Pine #2  5-0 7-5 9-5 11-3 13-2 4-7 6-11 8-9 10-5 12-3 
Southern 
Pine #3  3-10 5-8 7-1 8-8 10-3 3-6 5-3 6-7 8-0 9-6 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1806  72. Change the indicated rows of Table R802.5.1(5) to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species 
and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 psf  Dead Load = 20 psf  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spansa 
(feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  
12 Southern 
Pine SS  8-11 14-1 18-6 23-8 Note b  8-11 14-1 18-6 23-8 Note b  
Southern 
Pine #1  8-7 13-6 17-10 22-3 Note b  8-7 13-5 17-0 19-11 23-7 
Southern 
Pine #2  8-3 12-11 16-4 19-5 22-10 7-8 11-7 14-8 17-4 20-5 
Southern 
Pine #3  6-7 9-9 12-4 15-0 17-9 5-11 8-9 11-0 13-5 15-10 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  8-1 12-9 16-10 21-6 Note b  8-1 12-9 16-10 21-6 25-11 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-10 12-3 16-2 19-3 22-10 7-10 11-7 14-9 17-3 20-5 
Southern 
Pine #2  7-6 11-2 14-2 16-10 19-10 6-8 10-0 12-8 15-1 17-9 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-9 8-6 10-8 13-0 15-4 5-2 7-7 9-7 11-7 13-9 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  7-8 12-0 15-10 20-2 24-7 7-8 12-0 15-10 20-0 23-7 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-4 11-7 15-1 17-7 20-11 7-1 10-7 13-5 15-9 18-8 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-10 10-2 12-11 15-4 18-1 6-1 9-2 11-7 13-9 16-2 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-3 7-9 9-9 11-10 14-0 4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  7-1 11-2 14-8 18-9 22-10 7-1 11-2 14-8 17-11 21-2 
Southern 
Pine #1  6-10 10-7 13-5 15-9 18-8 6-4 9-6 12-0 14-1 16-8 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-1 9-2 11-7 13-9 16-2 5-5 8-2 10-4 12-3 14-6 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 4-2 6-2 7-10 9-6 11-2 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1807 73. Change the indicated rows of Table R802.5.1(6) to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species 
and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 psf  Dead Load = 20 psf  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spansa 
(feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  
12 Southern 
Pine SS  7-6 11-0 15-7 19-11 24-3 7-6 11-10 15-7 19-11 24-3 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-3 11-5 15-0 18-2 21-7 7-3 11-4 14-5 16-10 20-0 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-11 10-6 13-4 15-10 18-8 6-6 9-9 12-4 14-8 17-3 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-5 8-0 10-1 12-3 14-6 5-0 7-5 9-4 11-4 13-5 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  6-10 10-9 14-2 18-1 22-0 6-10 10-9 14-2 18-1 21-10 
Southern 
Pine #1  6-7 10-4 13-5 15-9 18-8 6-7 9-10 12-5 14-7 17-3 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-1 9-2 11-7 13-9 16-2 5-8 8-5 10-9 12-9 15-0 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 4-4 6-5 8-1 9-10 11-7 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  6-5 10-2 13-4 17-0 20-9 6-5 10-2 13-4 16-11 20-0 
Southern 
Pine #1  6-2 9-8 12-3 14-4 17-1 6-0 9-0 11-4 13-4 13-8 
Southern 
Pine #2  5-7 8-4 10-7 12-6 14-9 5-2 7-9 9-9 11-7 15-9 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-3 6-4 8-0 9-8 11-5 4-0 5-10 7-4 8-11 10-7 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  6-0 9-5 12-5 15-10 19-3 6-0 9-5 12-5 15-2 17-10 
Southern 
Pine #1  5-9 8-8 11-0 12-10 15-3 5-5 8-0 10-2 11-11 14-1 
Southern 
Pine #2  5-0 7-5 9-5 11-3 13-2 4-7 6-11 8-9 10-5 12-3 
Southern 
Pine #3  3-10 5-8 7-1 8-8 10-3 3-6 5-3 6-7 8-0 9-6 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1808  74. Change the indicated rows of Table R802.5.1(7) to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species 
and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 psf  Dead Load = 20 psf  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spansa 
(feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  
12 Southern 
Pine SS  7-5 11-8 15-4 19-7 23-7 7-5 11-8 15-4 18-10 22-3 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-1 10-7 13-5 15-9 18-8 6-9 10-0 12-8 14-10 17-7 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-1 9-2 11-7 13-9 16-2 5-9 8-7 10-11 12-11 15-3 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 4-5 6-6 8-3 10-0 11-10 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  6-9 10-7 14-0 17-4 20-5 6-9 10-7 13-9 16-4 19-3 
Southern 
Pine #1  6-2 9-2 11-8 13-8 16-2 5-10 8-8 11-0 12-10 15-3 
Southern 
Pine #2  5-3 7-11 10-0 11-11 14-0 5-0 7-5 9-5 11-3 13-2 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-1 6-0 7-7 9-2 10-10 3-10 5-8 7-1 8-8 10-3 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  6-4 10-0 13-2 15-10 18-8 6-4 9-10 12-6 14-11 17-7 
Southern 
Pine #1  5-8 8-5 10-8 12-5 14-9 5-4 7-11 10-0 11-9 13-11 
Southern 
Pine #2  4-10 7-3 9-2 10-10 12-9 4-6 6-10 8-8 10-3 12-1 
Southern 
Pine #3  3-8 5-6 6-11 8-4 9-11 3-6 5-2 6-6 7-11 9-4 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  5-11 9-3 11-11 14-2 16-8 5-11 8-10 11-2 13-4 15-9 
Southern 
Pine #1  5-0 7-6 9-6 11-1 13-2 4-9 7-1 9-0 10-6 12-5 
Southern 
Pine #2  4-4 6-5 8-2 9-9 11-5 4-1 6-1 7-9 9-2 10-9 
Southern 
Pine #3  3-4 4-11 6-2 7-6 8-10 3-1 4-7 5-10 7-1 8-4 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1809 75. Change the indicated rows of Table R802.5.1(8) to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species 
and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 psf  Dead Load = 20 psf  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spansa 
(feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  (feet-
inches)  
12 Southern 
Pine SS  6-9 10-7 14-0 17-10 21-8 6-9 10-7 14-0 17-10 21-8 
Southern 
Pine #1  6-6 10-2 13-5 15-9 18-8 6-6 10-0 12-8 14-10 17-7 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-1 9-2 11-7 13-9 16-2 5-9 8-7 10-11 12-11 15-3 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 4-5 6-6 8-3 10-0 11-10 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  6-1 9-7 12-8 16-2 19-8 6-1 9-7 12-8 16-2 19-3 
Southern 
Pine #1  5-11 9-2 11-8 13-8 16-2 5-10 8-8 11-0 12-10 15-3 
Southern 
Pine #2  5-3 7-11 10-0 11-11 14-0 5-0 7-5 9-5 11-3 13-2 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-1 6-0 7-7 9-2 10-10 3-10 5-8 7-1 8-8 10-3 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  5-9 9-1 11-11 15-3 18-6 5-9 9-1 11-11 14-11 17-7 
Southern 
Pine #1  5-6 8-5 10-8 12-5 14-9 5-4 7-11 10-0 11-9 13-11 
Southern 
Pine #2  4-10 7-3 9-2 10-10 12-9 4-6 6-10 8-8 10-3 12-1 
Southern 
Pine #3  3-8 5-6 6-11 8-4 9-11 3-6 5-2 6-6 7-11 9-4 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  5-4 8-5 11-1 14-2 16-8 5-4 8-5 11-1 13-4 15-9 
Southern 
Pine #1  5-0 7-6 9-6 11-1 13-2 4-9 7-1 9-0 10-6 12-5 
Southern 
Pine #2  4-4 6-5 8-2 9-9 11-5 4-1 6-1 7-9 9-2 10-9 
Southern 
Pine #3  3-4 4-11 6-2 7-6 8-10 3-1 4-7 5-10 7-1 8-4 
[ 61. Change Sections R802.5 and R802.5.1 to read:  
R802.5 Ceiling joists. Ceiling joists shall be continuous 
across the structure or securely joined where they meet 
over interior partitions in accordance with Table 
R802.5.2.  
R802.5.1 Ceiling joist size. Ceiling joists shall be sized 
based on the joist spa ns in Tables R802.4(1) and 
R802.4(2). For other grades and species and for other 
loading conditions, refer to the AWC STJR.   62. Delete Figure R802.5.1 and change the title of Table 
R802.5.1(9) to Table R802.5.2.  
63. Add Section R802.5.2 to read:  
R802.5.2 Ceiling joist and rafter connections. Where 
ceiling joists run parallel to rafters, they shall be 
connected to rafters at the top wall plate in accordance 
with Table R802.5.2. Where ceiling joists are not 
connected to the rafters at the top wall p late, they shall be 
installed in the bottom third of the rafter height in Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1810  accordance with Figure R802.4.5 and Table R802.5.2. 
Where the ceiling joists are installed above the bottom 
third of the rafter height, the ridge shall be designed as a 
beam. Where c eiling joists do not run parallel to rafters, 
the ceiling joists shall be connected to top plates in 
accordance with Table R602.3(1). Each rafter shall be 
tied across the structure with a rafter tie or a 2 -inch by 4 -
inch (51 mm x 102 mm) kicker connected t o the ceiling 
diaphragm with nails equivalent in capacity to Table 
R802.5.2.  
64. Add Sections R802.5.2.1 through R802.5.2.3 to read:  
R802.5.2.1 Ceiling joists lapped. Ends of ceiling joists 
shall be lapped a minimum of 3 inches (76 mm) or butted 
over bea ring partitions or beams and toenailed to the 
bearing member. Where ceiling joists are used to provide 
resistance to rafter thrust, lapped joists shall be nailed 
together in accordance with Table R802.5.2, and butted 
joists shall be tied together in a mann er to resist such 
thrust. Joists that do not resist thrust shall be permitted to 
be nailed in accordance with Table R602.3(1). Wood 
structural panel roof sheathing, in accordance with Table 
R503.2.1.1(1), shall not cantilever more than 9 inches 
(229 mm) be yond the gable endwall unless supported by 
gable overhang framing.  
R802.5.2.2 Rafter ties. Wood rafter ties shall be not less 
than 2 inches by 4 inches (51 mm by 102 mm) installed 
in accordance with Table R802.5.2 at each rafter. Other 
approved rafter tie  methods shall be permitted.  
R802.5.2.3 Blocking. Blocking shall be not less than 
utility grade lumber.  ]  
76. Change Section R807.1 to read:  
R807.1 Attic access. Buildings with combustible ceiling 
or roof construction shall have an attic access opening to 
attic areas 30 square feet (2.8 m2) or larger having a 
vertical height of not less than 30 inches (762 mm). The 
vertical height shall be measured from the top of the 
ceiling framing members to the underside of the roof 
framing members.  
The rough -framed  opening shall not be less than 22 
inches by 30 inches (559 mm by 762 mm) and shall be 
located in a hallway or other readily accessible location. 
When located in a wall, the opening shall be a minimum 
of 22 inches wide by 30 inches high (559 mm wide by 
762 mm high). When the access is located in a ceiling, 
minimum unobstructed headroom in the attic space shall 
be 30 inches (762 mm) at some point above the access 
measured vertically from the bottom of ceiling framing 
members. See Section M1305.1.3 for access  
requirements where mechanical equipment is located in 
attics.  77. [ 49. 65. ] Delete Section R905.2.8.5.  
78. [ 50. 66. ] Change Section R1001.8 to read:  
R1001.8 Smoke chamber. Smoke chamber walls shall be 
constructed of solid masonry units, hollow maso nry units 
grouted solid, stone, or concrete. The total minimum 
thickness of front, back, and side walls shall be 8 inches 
(203 mm) of solid masonry. When the inside surface of 
the smoke chamber is formed by corbelled masonry, the 
inside surface shall be pa rged smooth. When a lining of 
firebrick at least 2 inches (51 mm) thick, or a lining of 
vitrified clay at least 5/8 inch (16 mm) thick, is provided, 
the total minimum thickness of front, back, and side 
walls shall be 6 inches (152 mm) of solid masonry, 
including the lining. Firebrick shall conform to ASTM C 
1261 and shall be laid with medium duty refractory 
mortar conforming to ASTM C 199. Vitrified clay 
linings shall conform to ASTM C 315.  
[ 67. Change Section N1101.13 (R401.2) to read:   
N1101.13 (R401.2)  Compliance. Projects shall comply 
with all provisions of Chapter 11 labeled "Mandatory" 
and one of the following:  
1. Sections N1101.14 through N1104.  
2. Section N1105.  
3. Section N1106.  
4. The most recent version of REScheck, keyed to the 
2015 IECC.  
Note: See REScheck compliance guidance issued by 
DHCD, available at the Department's website.  ]  
79. [ 51. 68. ] Delete Section N1101.16  N1101.14  
(R401.3).  
80. [ 52. 69. ] Change the ceiling R -value and wood frame 
wall R -value categories for climate zone " 4 except Marine" 
in Table N1102.1.1 (R402.1.1)  N1102.1.2 (R402.1.2)  to 
read:  
Ceiling R -Value  Wood Frame Wall R -
Value  
38 15 or 13 + 1h 
81. [ 53. 70. ] Change the ceiling U -factor and frame wall 
U-factor categories for climate zone "4 except Marine" in 
Table N1102.1.3 (R402.1.3)  N1102.1.4 (R402.1.4)  to read:  
Ceiling U -Factor  Frame Wall U -Factor  
0.030  0.079  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1811 82. [ 54. 71. ] Change Sections N1102.2.1 (R402.2.1) and  
Section  N1102.2.4 (R402.2.4) to read:  
N1102.2.1 (R402.2.1) Ceilings with attic spaces. When 
Section N1102.1.1 would require R -38 in the ceiling, 
installing R -30 over 100% of the ceiling area shall be 
deemed to satisfy the requirement for R -38 wherever the 
full height of uncompressed R -30 insulation extends over 
the wall top plate at the eaves. Similarly, when Section 
N1102.1.1 would require R -49 in the ceiling, installing 
R-38 over 100% of the ceiling area shall be deemed to 
satisfy the requ irement for R -49 wherever the full height 
of uncompressed R -38 insulation extends over the wall 
top plate at the eaves. This reduction shall not apply to 
the U -factor alternative approach in Section N1102.1.3 
and the total UA alternative in Section N1102.1 .4.  
N1102.2.4 (R402.2.4) Access hatches and doors. Access 
doors from conditioned spaces to unconditioned spaces 
(e.g., attics and crawl spaces) shall be weatherstripped 
and insulated in accordance with the following values:  
1. Hinged vertical doors shall  have a minimum overall R -
5 insulation value;  
2. Hatches and scuttle hole covers shall be insulated to a 
level equivalent to the insulation on the surrounding 
surfaces; and  
3. Pull down stairs shall have a minimum of 75% of the 
panel area having R -5 rigi d insulation.  
Access shall be provided to all equipment that prevents 
damaging or compressing the insulation. A wood framed 
or equivalent baffle or retainer is required to be provided 
when loose fill insulation is installed, the purpose of 
which is to pre vent the loose fill insulation from spilling 
into the living space when the attic access is opened, and 
to provide a permanent means of maintaining the 
installed R -value of the loose fill insulation.  
83. Delete Section N1102.3.6 (R402.3.6) and change  [ 55. 
72. ] Change  Sections N1102.4 (R402.4) and N1102.4.1.1 
(R402.4.1.1) to read:  
N1102.4 (R402.4) Air leakage. The building thermal 
envelope shall be constructed to limit air leakage in 
accordance with the requirements of Sections N1102.4.1 
through N1102.4. 4.  
N1102.4.1.1 (R402.4.1.1) Installation (Mandatory). The 
components of the building thermal envelope as listed in 
Table N1102.4.1.1 shall be installed in accordance with 
the manufacturer's instructions and the criteria listed in 
Table N1102.4.1.1, as app licable to the method of 
construction. Where required by the code official, an 
approved third party shall inspect all components and 
verify compliance.  84. [ 56. 73. ] Change the title of the "Criteria"  "Insulation 
Installation Criteria"  category of Table  N1102.4.1.1 
(R402.4.1.1); change the "Walls,"  "Shower/tub on exterior 
wall," and "Fireplace" categories  category  of Table 
N1102.4.1.1 (R402.4.1.1), and add footnotes "b" and "c" to 
Table N1102.4.1.1 (R402.4.1.1) to read:  
Component  Criteriaa,b 
Walls  Cavities within corners and 
headers shall be insulated by 
completely filling the cavity 
with a material having a 
minimum thermal resistance 
of R-3 per inch.  
The junction of the 
foundation and sill plate shall 
be sealed.  
The junction of the top plate 
and to p of exterior walls shall 
be sealed.  
Exterior thermal envelope 
insulation for framed walls 
shall be installed in 
substantial contact and 
continuous alignment with 
the air barrier.  
Knee walls shall be sealed.  
Shower/tub on 
exterior wallc Exterior walls adjacent to 
showers and tubs shall be 
insulated, and an air barrier 
shall be installed on the 
interior side of the exterior 
wall, adjacent to the shower 
or tub.  
Fireplace  An air barrier shall be 
installed on fireplace walls. 
Fireplaces shall have 
gasketed  doors or tight -fitting 
flue dampers.  
b. Structural integrity of headers shall be in accordance 
with the applicable building code.  
c. Air barriers used behind showers and tubs on 
exterior walls shall be of a permeable material that 
does not cause the entr apment of moisture in the stud 
cavity.  
  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1812  Component  Air Barrier 
Criteria  Insulation 
Installation 
Criteriab 
Shower/tub on 
exterior wallc The air barrier 
installed at 
exterior walls 
adjacent to 
showers and 
tubs shall be 
installed on the 
interior side 
and separate 
the exterior 
walls from the 
showers and 
tubs.  Exterior walls 
adjacent to 
showers and tubs 
shall be 
insulated.  
b. Structural integrity of headers shall be in accordance with 
the applicable building code.  
c. Air barriers used behind showers and tubs on exterior 
walls shall be of a permeable material that does not cause 
the entrapment of moisture in the stud cavity.  
85. [ 57. 74. ] Change Section N1102.4.1.2 (R402.4.1.2) 
and add Sections N1102.4.1.2.1 (R402.4.1.2.1), 
N1102.4.1.2.2 (R402.4.1.2.2), and N1102.4.1.3 
(R402.4.1.3) to read:  
N1102.4.1.2 (R402.4.1.2) Air sealing. Building envelope 
air tightness shall be demonstrated to co mply with either 
Section N1102.4.1.2.1 or N1102.4.1.2.2.  
N1102.4.1.2.1 (R402.4.1.2.1) Testing option. The 
building or dwelling unit shall be tested for air leakage. 
Testing shall be conducted with a blower door at a 
pressure of 0.2 inches w.g. (50 Pa). Wh ere required by 
the building official, testing shall be conducted by an 
approved third party. A written report of the results of the 
test shall be signed by the party conducting the test and 
provided to the building official. Testing shall be 
performed at any time after creation of all penetrations of 
the building thermal envelope.  
During testing:  
1. Exterior windows and doors and fireplace and stove 
doors shall be closed, but not sealed beyond the intended 
weatherstripping or other infiltration control m easures;  
2. Dampers, including exhaust, intake, makeup air, 
backdraft, and flue dampers shall be closed, but not 
sealed beyond intended infiltration control measures;  
3. Interior doors, if installed at the time of the test, shall 
be open;  
4. Exterior doors for continuous ventilation systems and 
heat recovery ventilators shall be closed and sealed;  5. Heating and cooling systems, if installed at the time of 
the test, shall be turned off; and  
6. Supply and return registers, if installed at the time of 
the test, shall be fully open.  
N1102.4.1.2.2 (R402.4.1.2.2) Visual inspection option. 
Building envelope tightness shall be considered 
acceptable when the items listed in Table N1102.4.1.1, 
applicable to the method of construction, are field 
verified. Where required by the building official, an 
approved party, independent from the installer, shall 
inspect the air barrier. When this option is chosen, 
whole -house mechanical ventilation shall be provided in 
accordance with Section M1507.3.  
N1102.4 .1.3 (R402.4.1.3) Leakage rate (Prescriptive). 
The building or dwelling unit shall have an air leakage 
rate less than 5 changes per hour as verified in 
accordance with Section N1102.4.1.2.  
86. Change Section N1103.1.1 (R403.1.1) to read:  
N1103.1.1 (R403. 1.1) Programmable thermostat. The 
thermostat controlling the primary heating or cooling 
system of the dwelling unit shall be capable of 
controlling the heating and cooling system on a daily 
schedule to maintain different temperature set points at 
different  times of the day. This thermostat shall include 
the capability to set back or temporarily operate the 
system to maintain zone temperatures down to 55°F 
(13°C) or up to 85°F (29°C). The thermostat shall 
initially be programmed with a heating temperature se t 
point no higher than 70°F (21°C) and a cooling 
temperature set point no lower than 78°F (26°C).  
87. [ 58. Change Section  ] N1103.2.2 (R403.2.2)  
[ N1103.3.2 (R403.3.2)  to read:  ]  
N1103.2.2 (R403.2.2)  [ N1103.3.2 (R403.3.2)  Sealing 
(Mandatory). Ducts, ai r handlers, and filter boxes shall 
be sealed. Joints and seams shall comply with either the 
International Mechanical Code or  Section M1601.4.1 of 
this code , as applicable . Verification of compliance with 
this section shall be in accordance with either  ] Section 
N1103.2.2.1  [ Sections N1103.3.3 and N1103.3.4 when 
the testing option is chosen  or ] N1103.2.2.2  [ N1103.3.4 
when the visual inspection option is chosen .  
Exceptions:  
1. Air -impermeable spray foam products shall be 
permitted to be applied without a dditional joint seals.  ]  
2. Where a duct connection is made that is partially 
inaccessible, three screws or rivets shall be equally 
spaced on the exposed portion of the joint so as to 
prevent a hinge effect.  
3. Continuously welded and locking -type longit udinal 
joints and seams in ducts operating at  [ 2. For ducts Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1813 having a  static  ] pressures  [ pressure of  less than 2 inches 
of water column (500 Pa)  ] pressure classification shall 
not require  [ , additional closure systems shall not be 
required for continuo usly welded joints and seams and 
locking -type joints and seams of other than the snap -lock 
and button -lock types .  
75. Change Section N1103.3.3 (R403.3.3) to read:  
N1103.3.3 (R403.3.3) Duct testing (Mandatory). Ducts 
shall be pressure tested to determine air leakage by one 
of the following methods:  
1. Rough -in test: Total leakage shall be measured with a 
pressure differential of 0.1 inch w.g. (25 Pa) across the 
system, including the manufacturer's air handler 
enclosure if installed at the time of the test . All registers 
shall be taped or otherwise sealed during the test.  
2. Postconstruction test: Total leakage shall be measured 
with a pressure differential of 0.1 inch w.g. (25 Pa) 
across the entire system, including the manufacturer's air 
handler enclosur e. Registers shall be taped or otherwise 
sealed during the test.  
Exception: A duct air leakage test shall not be required 
where the ducts and air handlers are located entirely 
within the building thermal envelope.  
A written report of the results of the t est shall be signed 
by the party conducting the test and provided to the code 
official. The licensed mechanical contractor installing the 
mechanical system shall be permitted to perform the duct 
testing. The contractor shall have been trained on the 
equipm ent used to perform the test.  ]  
88. [ 59. Change Section  ] N1103.2.2.1 (R403.2.2.1)  
[ N1103.3.5 (R403.3.5)  to read:  ]  
N1103.2.2.1 (R403.2.2.1) Testing option. Duct tightness 
shall be verified by either of the following:  
1. Post -construction test: Total leakage shall be less than 
or equal to 6 cfm (169.9 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 
m2) of conditioned floor area when tested at a pressure 
differential of 0.1 inch w.g. (25 Pa) across the entire 
system, including the manufacturer's air handler 
enclosure. All register boots shall be taped or otherwise 
sealed during the test.  
2. Rough -in test: Total leakage shall be less than or equal 
to 5 cfm (141.5 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of 
conditioned floor area when tested at a pressure 
differential of 0.1 inch w.g. (25 Pa) across the system, 
including the manufacturer's air handler enclosu re. All 
register boots shall be taped or otherwise sealed during 
the test. If the air handler is not installed at the time of 
the test, total leakage shall be less than or equal to 5 cfm 
(141.5 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of 
conditioned floor area .  Exception: The total leakage test is not required for ducts 
and air handlers located entirely within the building 
thermal envelope.  
When this option is chosen, testing shall be performed by 
approved qualified individuals, testing agencies or 
contractor s. Testing and results shall be as prescribed in 
Section N1103.2.2 and approved recognized industry 
standards.  
89. Add Section N1103.2.2.2 (R403.2.2.2) to read:  
N1103.2.2.2 (R403.2.2.2)  [ N1103.3.5 (R403.3.5)  Visual 
inspection option. In addition to the inspection of ducts 
otherwise required by this code, when the air handler and 
all ducts are not within conditioned space and this option 
is chosen to verify duct tightness, duct tightness shall be 
considered ac ceptable when the requirements of Section 
N1103.2.2 N1103.3.2  are field verified.  ]  
90. [ 60. Add Section  ] N1103.2.2.3 (R403.2.2.3)  
[ N1103.3.6 (R403.3.6)  to read:  ]  
N1103.2.2.3 (R403.2.2.1) Sealed air handler. Air 
handlers shall have a manufacturer's d esignation for an 
air leakage of no more than 2.0% of the design air flow 
rate when tested in accordance with ASHRAE 193.  
91. Change Section N1103.4.2 (R403.4.2) to read:  
N1103.4.2 (R403.4.2) Hot water pipe insulation 
(Prescriptive). Insulation for hot w ater pipe with a 
minimum thermal resistance (R -value) of R -3 shall be 
applied to the following:  
1. Piping larger than 3/4 inch nominal diameter.  
2. Piping serving more than one dwelling unit.  
3. Piping located outside the conditioned space.  
4. Piping f rom the water heater to a distribution 
manifold.  
5. Piping located under a floor slab.  
6. Buried piping.  
7. Supply and return piping in recirculation systems other 
than demand recirculation systems.  
92. Delete Table N1103.4.2 (R403.4.2).  
[ N1103.3.6 ( R403.3.6) Building cavities (mandatory). 
Building framing cavities shall not be used as ducts or 
plenums.  ]  
93. [ 61. 76. ] Change Section N1103.6 (R403.6)  N1103.7 
(R403.7)  to read:  
N1103.6 (R403.6)  N1103.7 (R403.7)  Equipment and 
appliance sizing. Heatin g and cooling equipment and 
appliances shall be sized in accordance with ACCA 
Manual S or other approved sizing methodologies based Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1814  on building loads calculated in accordance with ACCA 
Manual J or other approved heating and cooling 
calculation methodologie s.  
Exception: Heating and cooling equipment and appliance 
sizing shall not be limited to the capacities determined in 
accordance with Manual S or other approved sizing 
methodologies where any of the following conditions 
apply:  
1. The specified equipment or appliance utilizes multi -
stage technology or variable refrigerant flow technology 
and the loads calculated in accordance with the approved 
heating and cooling methodology fall within the range of 
the manufacturer's published capacities for that 
equipmen t or appliance.  
2. The specified equipment or appliance manufacturer's 
published capacities cannot satisfy both the total and 
sensible heat gains calculated in accordance with the 
approved heating and cooling methodology and the next 
larger standard size unit is specified.  
3. The specified equipment or appliance is the lowest 
capacity unit available from the specified manufacturer.  
94. Change Section N1104.1 (R404.1) to read:  
N1104.1 (R404.1) Lighting equipment (Mandatory). A 
minimum of 50% of the lamps  in permanently installed 
luminaires shall be high -efficacy lamps, or a minimum of 
50% of the permanently installed luminaires shall contain 
only high -efficacy lamps.  
Exception: Low -voltage lighting shall not be required to 
utilize high -efficiency lamps.  
95. [ 62. Change the  ] "Glazing"  [ "Vertical fenestration 
other than opaque doors"  and "Air exchange rate" 
categories of Table N1105.5.2(1) (Table R405.5.2(1)) to 
read:   
Building 
Component  Standard 
Reference Design  Proposed 
Design  ]  
Glazinga 
[ Vertical 
fenestration 
other than 
opaque 
doors  Total areab is 15% 
of the conditioned 
floor area.  As proposed  ]  
Glazinga 
[ Vertical 
fenestration 
other than 
opaque 
doors  Orientation: 
equally 
distributed to four 
cardinal compass 
orientations  
(North, East, 
South & West).  As proposed  ]  Glazinga 
[ Vertical 
fenestration 
other than 
opaque 
doors  U-factor: from 
Table  ] N1102.1.3 
(R402.1.3)  
[ N1102.1.4 . As proposed  ]  
Glazinga 
[ Vertical 
fenestration 
other than 
opaque 
doors  SHGC: From 
Table  ] N1102.1.1 
(R402.1.1)  
[ N1102.1.2  
except that for 
climates with no 
requirement (NR) 
SHGC = 0.40 
shall be used.  As proposed  ]  
Glazinga 
[ Vertical 
fenestration 
other than 
opaque 
doors  Interior shade 
fraction:  
0.92-(0.21 x 
SHGC for the 
standard reference 
design).  0.92-(0.21 x 
SHGC  as 
proposed)  ]  
Glazinga 
[ Vertical 
fenestration 
other than 
opaque 
doors  External shading: 
none.  As proposed  
Air 
exchange 
rate Air leakage rate 
of 5 air changes 
per hour at a 
pressure of 0.2 
inches w.g (50 
Pa). The 
mechanical 
ventilation rate 
shall be in 
addition to the air 
leakage rate and 
the same as in the 
proposed design, 
but no greater 
than 0.01 × CFA 
+ 7.5 × (N br + 1) 
where:  
CFA = 
conditioned floor 
area 
Nbr = number of 
bedrooms  
Energy recovery 
shall not be 
assumed for 
mechanical 
ventilation.  For r esidences 
that are not 
tested, the same 
air leakage rate 
as the standard 
reference 
design. For 
tested 
residences, the 
measured air 
exchange ratec a. 
The mechanical 
ventilation rated 
b shall be in 
addition to the 
air leakage rate 
and shall be as 
proposed.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1815 a. Where required by the code official, testing shall be 
conducted by an approved party. Hourly calculations as 
specified in the ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, 
or the equivalent shall be used to determine the energy 
loads resulting from infiltration.  
b. The combined air exchange rate for infiltration and 
mechanical ventilation shall be determined in 
accordance with Equation 43 of 2001 ASHRAE 
Handbook of Fundamentals, page 26.24 and the 
"Whole -house Ventilation" provisions of 2001 
ASHRAE Handbook of Fundam entals, page 26.19 for 
intermittent mechanical ventilation.  
77. Change Table N1106.4 (R406.4) to read:  
Table N1106.4 (R406.4)  
Maximum Energy Rating Indexa 
Climate Zone  Energy Rating Index  
1 52 
2 52 
3 51 
4 62 
5 55 
6 54 
7 53 
8 53 
a. When onsite renewable energy is included for compliance 
using the ERI analysis per Section N1106.4 (R406.4), the 
building shall meet the mandatory requirements of Section 
N1106.2 (R406.2) and the building thermal envelope shall 
be greater than or equal to levels of en ergy efficiency and 
solar heat gain coefficient in Table N1102.1.2 (R402.1.2), 
with a ceiling R -value of 49 and a wood frame wall R -value 
of 20 or 13+5, or Table N1102.1.4 (R402.1.4), with a 
ceiling U -factor of 0.026 and a frame wall U -factor of 
0.060.  
63. 78. ] Delete Section N1109.1.1.1 (R503.1.1.1).  
96. [ 64. 79. ] Change Section M1401.3 to read:  
M1401.3 Equipment and appliance sizing. Heating and 
cooling equipment and appliances shall be sized in 
accordance with ACCA Manual S or other approved 
sizing methodologies based on building loads calculated 
in accordance with ACCA Manual J or other approve d 
heating and cooling calculation methodologies.  
Exception: Heating and cooling equipment and appliance 
sizing shall not be limited to the capacities determined in 
accordance with Manual S or other approved sizing methodologies where any of the following conditions 
apply:  
1. The specified equipment or appliance utilizes multi -
stage technology or variable refrigerant flow technology 
and the loads calculated in accordance with the approved 
heating and cooling methodology fall within the range of 
the manufac turer's published capacities for that 
equipment or appliance.  
2. The specified equipment or appliance manufacturer's 
published capacities cannot satisfy both the total and 
sensible heat gains calculated in accordance with the 
approved heating and cooling methodology, and the next 
larger standard size unit is specified.  
3. The specified equipment or appliance is the lowest 
capacity unit available from the specified manufacturer.  
97. [ 65. 80. ] Add Section M1501.2 to read:  
M1501.2 Transfer air. Air trans ferred from occupiable 
spaces other than kitchens, baths, and toilet rooms shall 
not be prohibited from serving as makeup air for exhaust 
systems. Transfer openings between spaces shall be of 
the same cross -sectional area as the free area of the 
makeup air  openings. Where louvers and grilles are 
installed, the required size of openings shall be based on 
the net free area of each opening. Where the design and 
free area of louvers and grilles are not known, it shall be 
assumed that wood louvers will have 25% free area and 
metal louvers and grilles will have 75% free area.  
[ 66. 81. ] Change Section M1502.4.2 to read:  
M1502.4.2 Duct installation. Exhaust ducts shall be 
supported at 4 -foot (1219 mm) intervals and shall be 
secured in place. The insert end of the  duct shall extend 
into the adjoining duct or fitting in the direction of 
airflow. Ducts shall not be joined with screws or similar 
fasteners that protrude into the inside of the duct.  
98. [ 67. 82. ] Change Section M1503.4 and add Section 
M1503.4.1  to rea d:  
M1503.4 Makeup air required. Exhaust hood systems 
capable of exhausting more than 400 cubic feet per 
minute (0.19 m3/s) shall be provided with makeup air at a 
rate approximately equal to the exhaust air rate in excess 
of 400 cubic feet per minute (0.19  m3/s). Such makeup 
air systems shall be equipped with a means of closure 
and shall be automatically controlled to start and operate 
simultaneously with the exhaust system.  
Exception: Intentional openings for makeup air are not 
required for kitchen exhaus t systems capable of 
exhausting not greater than 600 cubic feet per minute 
(0.28 m3/s) provided that one of the following conditions 
is met:  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1816  1. Where the floor area within the air barrier of a 
dwelling unit is at least 1500 square feet (139.35 m2), and 
where natural draft or mechanical draft space -heating or 
water -heating appliances are not located within the air 
barrier.  
2. Where the floor area within the air barrier of a 
dwelling unit is at least 3000 square feet (278.71 m2), and 
where natural draft spa ce-heating or water -heating 
appliances are not located within the air barrier.  
M1503.4.1 Location. Kitchen exhaust makeup air shall 
be provided in the same room as the exhaust system or in 
a room or duct system communicating through one or 
more permanent openings with the room in which such 
exhaust system is located. Permanent openings shall be at 
least of the same net cross -sectional area as the required 
area of the makeup air openings.  
99. [ 68. 83. ] Add Section M1801.1.1 to read:  
M1801.1.1 Equipment changes. Upon the replacement or 
new installation of any fuel -burning appliances or 
equipment in existing buildings, an inspection or 
inspections shall be conducted to ensure that the 
connected vent or chimney systems comply with the 
following:  
1. Vent or  chimney systems are sized in accordance with 
this code.  
2. Vent or chimney systems are clean, free of any 
obstruction or blockages, defects or deterioration and are 
in operable condition.  
Where not inspected by the local building department, 
persons per forming such changes or installations shall 
certify to the building official that the requirements of 
Items 1 and 2 of this section are met.  
[ 69. 84. ] Change Sections G2411.1 and G2411.1.1 to 
read:  
G2411.1 Pipe and tubing. Each above -group portion of a 
gas piping system that is likely to become energized shall 
be electrically continuous and bonded to an effective 
ground -fault current path. Gas piping shall be considered 
to be bonded where it is connected to appliances that are 
connected to the equipment grounding conductor of the 
circuit supplying that appliance. Corrugated stainless 
steel tubing (CSST) piping systems listed with an arc 
resistant jacket or coating system in accordance with 
ANSI LC 1/CSA 6.26 shall comply with this section. 
Where any CSST segments of a piping system are not 
listed with an arc resistant jacket or coating system in 
accordance with ANSI LC 1/CSA 6.26, Section 
G2411.1.1 shall apply.  
G2411.1.1 CSST without arc resistant jacket or coating 
system. CSST gas piping systems and pipin g systems containing one or more segments of CSST not listed with 
an arc resistant jacket or coating system in accordance 
with ANSI LC 1/CSA 6.26 shall be bonded to the 
electrical service grounding electrode system or, where 
provided, the lightning protect ion electrode system and 
shall comply with Sections G2411.1.1.1 through 
G2411.1.1.5.  
100. [ 70. 85. ] Add Section G2425.1.1 to read:  
G2425.1.1 Equipment changes. Upon the replacement or 
new installation of any fuel -burning appliances or 
equipment in exist ing buildings, an inspection or 
inspections shall be conducted to ensure that the 
connected vent or chimney systems comply with the 
following:  
1. Vent or chimney systems are sized in accordance with 
this code.  
2. Vent or chimney systems are clean, free o f any 
obstruction or blockages, defects, or deterioration and are 
in operable condition.  
Where not inspected by the local building department, 
persons performing such changes or installations shall 
certify to the building official that the requirements of 
Items 1 and 2 of this section are met.  
[ 71. 86. ] Change Section G2439.7.2 to read:  
G2439.7.2 Duct installation. Exhaust ducts shall be 
supported at 4 -foot (1219 mm) intervals and secured in 
place. The insert end of the duct shall extend into the 
adjoining duct or fitting in the direction of airflow. Ducts 
shall not be joined with screws or similar fasteners that 
protrude into the inside of the duct.  
101. [ 72. 87. ] Change Section P2601.2 to read:  
P2601.2 Connections. Plumbing fixtures, drains and 
appliances used to receive or discharge liquid wastes or 
sewage shall be directly connected  to the sanitary 
drainage system of the building or premises, in 
accordance with the requirements of this code. This 
section shall not be construed to prevent indirect waste 
systems.  
Exception: Bathtubs, showers, lavatories, clothes washers 
and laundry tr ays shall not be required to discharge to the 
sanitary drainage system where such fixtures discharge to 
an approved nonpotable gray water system in accordance 
with the applicable provisions of Sections P2909,  P2910, 
and P2911 , and P2912 .  
102. [ 73. 88. ] Change Section P2602.1 to read:  
P2602.1 General. The water and drainage system of any 
building or premises where plumbing fixtures are 
installed shall be connected to a public or private water 
supply and a public or private sewer system. As provided Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1817 for in  Section [  103.10  103.5  ] of Part I of the Virginia 
Uniform Statewide Building Code (13VAC5 -63) for 
functional design, water supply sources and sewage 
disposal systems are regulated and approved by the 
Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia 
Departm ent of Environmental Quality.  
Note: See also the Memorandums of Agreement in the 
"Related Laws Package," which is available from the 
Virginia Department of Housing and Community 
Development.  
[ 74. 89. ] Add Section P2602.3 to read:  
P2602.3 Tracer wire. N onmetallic water service piping 
that connects to public systems shall be locatable. An 
insulated copper tracer wire, 18 AWG minimum in size 
and suitable for direct burial or an equivalent product, 
shall be utilized. The wire shall be installed in the same 
trench as the water service piping and within 12 inches 
(305 mm) of the pipe and shall be installed to within five 
feet (1524 mm) of the building wall to the point where 
the building water service pipe intersects with the public 
water supply. At a minimum,  one end of the wire shall 
terminate above grade to provide access to the wire in a 
location that is resistant to physical damage, such as with 
a meter vault or at the building wall.  
103. [ 75. 90. ] Add Section P2901.1.1 to read:  
P2901.1.1 Nonpotable fix tures and outlets. Nonpotable 
water shall be permitted to serve nonpotable type fixtures 
and outlets in accordance with the applicable provisions 
of Sections P2909,  P2910, and P2911 , and P2912 .  
104. [ 76. 91. ] Change Section P2903.5 to read:  
P2903.5 Wat er hammer. The flow velocity of the water 
distribution system shall be controlled to reduce the 
possibility of water hammer. A water -hammer arrestor 
shall be installed where quick -closing valves are utilized, 
unless otherwise approved. Water hammer arresto rs shall 
be installed in accordance with manufacturer's 
specifications. Water hammer arrestors shall conform to 
ASSE 1010.  
105. Add Section P3002.2.1 to read as follows and delete 
Section P3009 in its entirety:  
P3002.2.1 Tracer wire. Nonmetallic sanitary  sewer 
piping that discharges to public systems shall be 
locatable. An insulated copper tracer wire, 18 AWG 
minimum in size and suitable for direct burial or an 
equivalent product, shall be utilized. The wire shall be 
installed in the same trench as the se wer within 12 inches 
(305 mm) of the pipe and shall be installed from within 
five feet of the building wall to the point where the 
building sewer intersects with the public system. At a 
minimum, one end of the wire shall terminate above grade in an accessi ble location that is resistant to physical 
damage, such as with a cleanout or at the building wall.  
106. Add an exception to Section P3301.1 to read:  
Exception: Rainwater nonpotable water systems shall be 
permitted in accordance with the applicable provi sions of 
Sections P2909 and 2911.  
107. Add Section P2909 Nonpotable Water Systems.  
108. Add  [ 77. 92. ] Change  Sections P2909.1  P2910.1  
through P2909.18  P2910.14 , including subsections, to 
read:  
P2909.1  P2910.1  Scope. The provisions of this section 
shall govern the materials, design, construction, and 
installation of nonpotable water systems subject to this 
code.  
P2909.1.1  P2910.1.1  Design of nonpotable water 
systems. All portions of nonpotable water systems 
subject to this code shall be constructed usi ng the same 
standards and requirements for the potable water systems 
or drainage systems as provided for in this code unless 
otherwise specified in this section or Section P2910 or  
P2911 or P2912 , as applicable.  
P2909.2  P2910.2  Makeup water. Makeup water shall be 
provided for all nonpotable water supply systems. The 
makeup water system shall be designed and installed to 
provide supply of water in the amounts and at the 
pressures specified in this code. The makeup water 
supply shall be potable and be protec ted against backflow 
in accordance with the applicable requirements of 
Section P2902.  
P2909.2.1  P2910.2.1  Makeup water sources. Nonpotable 
water shall be permitted to serve as makeup water for 
gray water and rainwater systems.  
P2909.2.2  P2910.2.2  Makeup water supply valve. A full -
open valve shall be provided on the makeup water supply 
line.  
P2909.2.3  P2910.2.3  Control valve alarm. Makeup water 
systems shall be fitted with a warning mechanism that 
alerts the user to a failure of the inlet control valve to 
close correctly. The alarm shall activate before the water 
within the storage tank begins to discharge into the 
overflow system.  
P2909.3  P2910.3  Sizing. Nonpotable water distribution 
systems shall be designed and sized for peak demand in 
accordan ce with approved engineering practice methods 
that comply with the applicable provisions of this 
chapter.  
P2909.4  P2910.4  Signage required. All nonpotable water 
outlets, other than water closets and urinals, such as hose 
connections, open ended pipes, and faucets shall be Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1818  identified at the point of use for each outlet with signage 
that reads as follows: "Nonpotable water is utilized for 
(insert application name). Caution: nonpotable water. DO 
NOT DRINK." The words shall be legibly and indelibly 
printed on a tag or sign constructed of corrosion -resistant 
waterproof material or shall be indelibly printed on the 
fixture. The let ters of the words shall be not less than 0.5 
inches (12.7 mm) in height and in colors in contrast to 
the background on which they are applied. The 
pictograph shown in Figure P2909.4  P2910.4  shall 
appear on the signage required by this section.  
Editor's No te: Figure P2909.4 is being deleted and Figure  
P2910.4 is being added in this action.  
 
  
  
P2909.5  P2910.5  Potable water supply system 
connections. Where a potable water supply system is 
connected to a nonpotable water system, the potable 
water supply shall be protected against backflow in 
accordance with the applicable provisions of Section 
P2902.  
P2909.6  P2910.6  Nonpotable water system connections. 
Where a nonpotable water system is connected and 
supplies water to another nonpotable water system, the 
nonpotable water system that supplies water shall be 
protected against backflow in accordance with the 
applic able provisions of Section P2902.  P2909.7  P2910.7  Approved components and materials. 
Piping, plumbing components, and materials used in the 
nonpotable water drainage and distribution systems shall 
be approved for the intended application and compatible 
with the water and any disinfection or treatment systems 
used.  
P2909.8  P2910.8  Insect and vermin control. Nonpotable 
water systems shall be protected to prevent the entrance 
of insects and vermin into storage and piping systems. 
Screen materials shall be co mpatible with system 
material and shall not promote corrosion of system 
components.  
P2909.9  P2910.9  Freeze protection. Nonpotable water 
systems shall be protected from freezing in accordance 
with the applicable provisions of Chapter 26.  
P2909.10  P2910.10  Nonpotable water storage tanks. 
Nonpotable water storage tanks shall be approved for the 
intended application and comply with Sections 
P2909.10.1  P2910.10.1  through P2909.10.12  
P2910.10.12 .  
P2909.10.1  P2910.10.1  Sizing. The holding capacity of 
storage ta nks shall be sized for the intended use.  
P2909.10.2  P2910.10.2  Inlets. Storage tank inlets shall be 
designed to introduce water into the tank and avoid 
agitating the contents of the storage tank. The water 
supply to storage tanks shall be controlled by fill valves 
or other automatic supply valves designed to stop the  
flow of incoming water before the tank contents reach 
the overflow pipes.  
P2909.10.3  P2910.10.3  Outlets. Outlets shall be located 
at least 4 inches (102 mm) above the bottom of the 
storage tank and shall not skim water from the surface.  
P2909.10.4  P2910 .10.4  Materials and location. Storage 
tanks shall be constructed of material compatible with 
treatment systems used to treat water. Above grade 
storage vessels shall be constructed using opaque, UV -
resistant materials such as tinted plastic, lined metal, 
concrete, or wood or painted to prevent algae growth. 
Above grade storage tanks shall be protected from direct 
sunlight unless their design specifically incorporates the 
use of the sunlight heat transfer. Wooden storage tanks 
shall be provided with a flexib le liner. Storage tanks and 
their manholes shall not be located directly under soil or 
waste piping or sources of contamination.  
P2909.10.5  P2910.10.5  Foundation and supports. Storage 
tanks shall be supported on a firm base capable of 
withstanding the sto rage tank's weight when filled to 
capacity. Storage tanks shall be supported in accordance 
with the applicable provisions of the IBC.  
P2909.10.5.1  P2910.10.5.1  Ballast. Where the soil can 
become saturated, an underground storage tank shall be Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1819 ballasted, o r otherwise secured, to prevent the effects of 
buoyancy. The combined weight of the tank and hold 
down ballast shall meet or exceed the buoyancy force of 
the tank. Where the installation requires a foundation, the 
foundation shall be flat and shall be desi gned to support 
the storage tank weight when full, consistent with the 
bearing capability of adjacent soil.  
P2909.10.5.2  P2910.10.5.2  Structural support. Where 
installed below grade, storage tank installations shall be 
designed to withstand earth and surf ace structural loads 
without damage.  
P2909.10.6  P2910.10.6  Overflow. The storage tank shall 
be equipped with an overflow pipe having a diameter not 
less than that shown in Table P2909.10.6  P2910.10.6 . 
The overflow outlet shall discharge at a point not les s 
than 6 inches (152 mm) above the roof or roof drain, 
floor or floor drain, or over an open water -supplied 
fixture. The overflow outlet shall terminate through a 
check valve. Overflow pipes shall not be directed on 
walkways. The overflow drain shall not b e equipped with 
a shutoff valve. A minimum of one cleanout shall be 
provided on each overflow pipe in accordance with the 
applicable provisions of Section P3005.2.  
Table P2909.10.6  P2910.10.6  
Sizes for Overflow Pipes for Water Supply Tanks  
Maximum Capacity 
of Water Supply 
Line to Tank (gpm)  Diameter of Overflow Pipe 
(inches)  
0 - 50 2 
50 - 150 2-1/2 
150 - 200 3 
200 - 400 4 
400 - 700 5 
700 - 1,000  6 
Over 1,000  8 
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 
L/m.  
P2909.10.7  P2910.10.7  Access. A minimum of one 
access opening shall be provided to allow inspection and 
cleaning of the tank interior. Access openings shall have 
an approved locking device or other approved method of 
securing access. Below grade storage tanks, located 
outside of the building, shall be provided with either a 
manhole not less than 24 inches (610 mm) square or a 
manhole with an inside diameter not less than 24 inches 
(610 mm). The design and installation of access openings 
shall prohibit surface water from enterin g the tank. Each manhole cover shall have an approved locking device or 
other approved method of securing access.  
Exception: Storage tanks under 800 gallons (3028 L) in 
volume installed below grade shall not be required to be 
equipped with a manhole, but shall have an access 
opening not less than 8 inches (203 mm) in diameter to 
allow inspection and cleaning of the tank interior.  
P2909.10.8  P2910.10.8  Venting. Storage tanks shall be 
vented. Vents shall not be connected to the sanitary 
drainage system. Ven ts shall be at least equal in size to 
the internal diameter of the drainage inlet pipe or pipes 
connected to the tank. Where installed at grade, vents 
shall be protected from contamination by means of a U -
bend installed with the opening directed downward. Vent 
outlets shall extend a minimum of 12 inches (304.8 mm) 
above grade, or as necessary to prevent surface water 
from entering the storage tank. Vent openings shall be 
protected against the entrance of vermin and insects. 
Vents serving gray water tanks sh all terminate in 
accordance with the applicable provisions of Sections 
P3103 and P2909.8  P2910.8 .  
P2909.10.9  P2910.10.9  Drain. Where drains are 
provided, they shall be located at the lowest point of the 
storage tank. The tank drain pipe shall discharge as  
required for overflow pipes and shall not be smaller in 
size than specified in Table P2909.10.6  P2910.10.6 . A 
minimum of one cleanout shall be provided on each drain 
pipe in accordance with Section P3005.2.  
P2909.10.10  P2910.10.10  Labeling and signage. E ach 
nonpotable water storage tank shall be labeled with its 
rated capacity and the location of the upstream bypass 
valve. Underground and otherwise concealed storage 
tanks shall be labeled at all access points. The label shall 
read: "CAUTION: NONPOTABLE WA TER - DO NOT 
DRINK." Where an opening is provided that could allow 
the entry of personnel, the opening shall be marked with 
the words: "DANGER - CONFINED SPACE." Markings 
shall be indelibly printed on a tag or sign constructed of 
corrosion -resistant waterp roof material mounted on the 
tank or shall be indelibly printed on the tank. The letters 
of the words shall be not less than 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) 
in height and shall be of a color in contrast with the 
background on which they are applied.  
P2909.10.11  P291 0.10.11  Storage tank tests. Storage 
tanks shall be tested in accordance with the following:  
1. Storage tanks shall be filled with water to the overflow 
line prior to and during inspection. All seams and joints 
shall be left exposed and the tank shall rema in water tight 
without leakage for a period of 24 hours.  
2. After 24 hours, supplemental water shall be introduced 
for a period of 15 minutes to verify proper drainage of 
the overflow system and verify that there are no leaks.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1820  3. Following a successful t est of the overflow system, the 
water level in the tank shall be reduced to a level that is 
at 2 inches (50.8 mm) below the makeup water offset 
point. The tank drain shall be observed for proper 
operation. The makeup water system shall be observed 
for prop er operation, and successful automatic shutoff of 
the system at the refill threshold shall be verified. Water 
shall not be drained from the overflow at any time during 
the refill test.  
4. Air tests shall be permitted in lieu of water testing as 
recommende d by the tank manufacturer or the tank 
standard.  
P2909.10.12  P2910.10.12  Structural strength. Storage 
tanks shall meet the applicable structural strength 
requirements of the IBC.  
P2909.11  P2910.11  Trenching requirements for 
nonpotable water system piping . Underground 
nonpotable water system piping shall be horizontally 
separated from the building sewer and potable water 
piping by 5 feet [  (1524 m)  (1524 mm)  ] of undisturbed 
or compacted earth. Nonpotable water system piping 
shall not be located in, under,  or above sewage systems 
cesspools, septic tanks, septic tank drainage fields, or 
seepage pits. Buried nonpotable water system piping 
shall comply with the requirements of this code for the 
piping material installed.  
Exceptions:  
1. The required separatio n distance shall not apply where 
the bottom of the nonpotable water pipe within 5 feet 
(1524 mm) of the sewer is equal to or greater than 12 
inches (305 mm) above the top of the highest point of the 
sewer and the pipe materials conforms to Table P3002.2.  
2. The required separation distance shall not apply where 
the bottom of the potable water service pipe within 5 feet 
(1524 mm) of the nonpotable water pipe is a minimum of 
12 inches (305 mm) above the top of the highest point of 
the nonpotable water pipe a nd the pipe materials comply 
with the requirements of Table P2905.5  P2906.5 .  
3. Nonpotable water pipe is permitted to be located in the 
same trench with building sewer piping, provided that 
such sewer piping is constructed of materials that comply 
with th e requirements of Table P3002.1(2).  
4. The required separation distance shall not apply where 
a nonpotable water pipe crosses a sewer pipe, provided 
that the pipe is sleeved to at least 5 feet (1524 mm) 
horizontally from the sewer pipe centerline on both sides 
of such crossing with pipe materials that comply with 
Table P3002.1(2).  
5. The required separation distance shall not apply where 
a potable water service pipe crosses a nonpotable water 
pipe provided that the potable water service pipe is sleeved fo r a distance of at least 5 feet (1524 mm) 
horizontally from the centerline of the nonpotable pipe 
on both sides of such crossing with pipe materials that 
comply with Table P3002.1(2).  
P2909.12  P2910.12  Outdoor outlet access. Sillcocks, 
hose bibs, wall hyd rants, yard hydrants, and other 
outdoor outlets that are supplied by nonpotable water 
shall be located in a locked vault or shall be operable 
only by means of a removable key.  
P2909.13  P2910.13  Drainage and vent piping and 
fittings. Nonpotable drainage an d vent pipe and fittings 
shall comply with the applicable material standards and 
installation requirements in accordance with provisions 
of Chapter 30.  
P2909.13.1  P2910.13.1  Labeling and marking. 
Identification of nonpotable drainage and vent piping 
shall not be required.  
P2909.14  P2910.14  Pumping and control system. 
Mechanical equipment, including pumps, valves, and 
filters, shall be accessible and removable in order to 
perform repair, maintenance, and cleaning. The 
minimum flow rate and flow pressure delivered by the 
pumping system shall be designed for the intended 
application in accordance with the applicable provisions 
of Section P2903.  
[ 78. 93. ] Add Sections P2910.15 through P2910.18, 
including subsections, to read:  
P2909.15  P2910.15  Water -pressure reducing valve or 
regulator. Where  the water pressure supplied by the 
pumping system exceeds 80 psi (552 kPa) static, a 
pressure -reducing valve shall be installed to reduce the 
pressure in the nonpotable water distribution system 
piping to 80 psi (552 kPa) static or less. Pressure -
reducing  valves shall be specified and installed in 
accordance with the applicable provisions of Section 
P2903.3.1.  
P2909.16  P2910.16  Distribution pipe. Distribution piping 
utilized in nonpotable water stems shall comply with 
Sections P2909.16.1  P2910.16.1  throug h P2909.16.4  
P2910.16.4 .  
P2909.16.1  P2910.16.1  Materials, joints, and 
connections. Distribution piping and fittings shall comply 
with the applicable material standards and installation 
requirements in accordance with applicable provisions of 
Chapter 29.  
P2909.16.2  P2910.16.2  Design. Distribution piping shall 
be designed and sized in accordance with the applicable 
provisions of Chapter 29.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1821 P2909.16.3  P2910.16.3  Labeling and marking. 
Distribution piping labeling and marking shall comply 
with Section P2901. 1.  
P2909.16.4  P2910.16.4  Backflow prevention. Backflow 
preventers shall be installed in accordance with the 
applicable provisions of Section P2902.  
P2909.17  P2910.17  Tests and inspections. Tests and 
inspections shall be performed in accordance with 
Secti ons P2909.17.1  P2910.17.1  through P2909.17.5  
P2910.17.5 .  
P2909.17.1  P2910.17.1  Drainage and vent pipe test. 
Drain, waste, and vent piping used for gray water and 
rainwater nonpotable water systems shall be tested in 
accordance with the applicable provisio ns of Section 
P2503.  
P2909.17.2  P2910.17.2  Storage tank test. Storage tanks 
shall be tested in accordance with the Section 
P2909.10.11  P2910.10.11 .  
P2909.17.3  P2910.17.3  Water supply system test. 
Nonpotable distribution piping shall be tested in 
accordan ce with Section P2503.7.  
P2909.17.4  P2910.17.4  Inspection and testing of 
backflow prevention assemblies. The testing of backflow 
preventers and backwater valves shall be conducted in 
accordance with Section P2503.8.  
P2909.17.5  P2910.17.5  Inspection of ve rmin and insect 
protection. Inlets and vent terminations shall be visually 
inspected to verify that each termination is installed in 
accordance with Section P2909.10.8  P2910.10.8 .  
P2909.18  P2910.18  Operation and maintenance manuals. 
Operations and mainten ance materials for nonpotable 
water systems shall be provided as prescribed by the 
system component manufacturers and supplied to the 
owner to be kept in a readily accessible location.  
109. Add  [ 79. 94. ] Change the title of  Section P2910  
P2911 to " Gray Water Nonpotable Water Systems. "  
110. Add  [ 80. 95. ] Change  Sections P2910.1  P2911.1  
through P2910.6  P2911.6 , including subsections, to read:  
P2910.1  P2911.1  Gray water nonpotable water systems. 
This code is applicable to the plumbing fixtures, piping 
or piping systems, storage tanks, drains, appurtenances, 
and appliances that are part of the distribution system for 
gray water within buildings and to storage tanks and 
associated piping that are part of the distribution system 
for gray water outside of bu ildings. This code does not 
regulate equipment used for, or the methods of, 
processing, filtering, or treating gray water, which may 
be regulated by the Virginia Department of Health or the 
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.  P2910.1.1  P2911.1.1  Separate systems. Gray water 
nonpotable water systems, unless approved otherwise 
under the permit from the Virginia Department of Health, 
shall be separate from the potable water system of a 
building with no cross connections between the two 
systems excep t as permitted by the Virginia Department 
of Health.  
P2910.2  P2911.2  Water quality. Each application of gray 
water reuse shall meet the minimum water quality 
requirements set forth in Sections P2910.2.1  P2911.2.1  
through P2910.2.4  P2911.2.4  unless otherwi se 
superseded by other state agencies.  
P2910.2.1  P2911.2.1  Disinfection. Where the intended 
use or reuse application for nonpotable water requires 
disinfection or other treatment or both, it shall be 
disinfected as needed to ensure that the required water  
quality is delivered at the point of use or reuse.  
P2910.2.2  P2911.2.2  Residual disinfectants. Where 
chlorine is used for disinfection, the nonpotable water 
shall contain not more than 4 parts per million (4 mg/L) 
of free chlorine, combined chlorine, or total chlorine. 
Where ozone is used for disinfection, the nonpotable 
water shall not exceed 0.1 parts per million (by volume) 
of ozone at the point of use.  
P2910.2.3  P2911.2.3  Filtration. Water collected for reuse 
shall be filtered as required for the int ended end use. 
Filters shall be accessible for inspection and 
maintenance. Filters shall utilize a pressure gauge or 
other approved method to indicate when a filter requires 
servicing or replacement. Shutoff valves installed 
immediately upstream and downst ream of the filter shall 
be included to allow for isolation during maintenance.  
P2910.2.4  P2911.2.4  Filtration required. Gray water 
utilized for water closet and urinal flushing applications 
shall be filtered by a 100 micron or finer filter.  
P2910.3  P291 1.3 Storage tanks. Storage tanks utilized in 
gray water nonpotable water systems shall comply with 
Section P2909.10  P2910.10 .  
P2910.4  P2911.4  Retention time limits. Untreated gray 
water shall be retained in storage tanks for a maximum of 
24 hours.  
P2910. 5 P2911.5  Tank location. Storage tanks shall be 
located with a minimum horizontal distance between 
various elements as indicated in Table P2910.5.1  
P2911.5.1 .  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1822  Table P2910.5.1  P2911.5.1  
Location of Nonpotable Gray Water Reuse Storage 
Tanks  
Element  Minimum  Horizontal 
Distance from Storage 
Tank (feet)  
Lot line adjoining 
private lots  5 
Sewage systems  5 
Septic tanks  5 
Water wells  50 
Streams and lakes  50 
Water service  5 
Public water main  10 
P2910.6  P2911.6  Valves. Valves shall be supplied on 
gray water nonpotable water drainage systems in 
accordance with Sections P2910.6.1  P2911.6.1  and 
P2910.6.2  P2911.6.2 .  
P2910.6.1  P2911.6.1  Bypass valve. One three -way 
diverter valve certified to NSF 50 or other approved  
device shall be installed on collection piping upstream of 
each storage tank, or drainfield, as applicable, to divert 
untreated gray water to the sanitary sewer to allow 
servicing and inspection of the system. Bypass valves 
shall be installed downstream o f fixture traps and vent 
connections. Bypass valves shall be labeled to indicate 
the direction of flow, connection, and storage tank or 
drainfield connection. Bypass valves shall be provided 
with access for operation and maintenance. Two shutoff 
valves sha ll not be installed to serve as a bypass valve.  
P2910.6.2  P2911.6.2  Backwater valve. Backwater valves 
shall be installed on each overflow and tank drain pipe to 
prevent unwanted water from draining back into the 
storage tank. If the overflow and drain pip ing 
arrangement is installed to physically not allow water to 
drain back into the tank, such as in the form of an air gap, 
backwater valves shall not be required. Backwater valves 
shall be constructed and installed in accordance with 
Section P3008.  
111. A dd [ 81. 96. ] Change the title of  Section P2911  
P2912 to " Rainwater Nonpotable Water Systems. "  
112. Add  [ 82. 97. ] Change  Sections P2911.1  P2912.1  
through P2911.10  P2912.10 , including subsections, to 
read:  
P2911.1  P2912.1  General. The provisions of thi s section 
shall govern the design, construction, installation, 
alteration, and repair of rainwater nonpotable water systems for the collection, storage, treatment, and 
distribution of rainwater for nonpotable applications.  
P2911.2  P2912.2  Water quality. E ach application of 
rainwater reuse shall meet the minimum water quality 
requirements set forth in Sections P2911.2.1  P2912.2.1  
through P2911.2.4  P2912.2.4  unless otherwise 
superseded by other state agencies.  
P2911.2.1  P2912.2.1  Disinfection. Where the int ended 
use or reuse application for nonpotable water requires 
disinfection or other treatment or both, it shall be 
disinfected as needed to ensure that the required water 
quality is delivered at the point of use or reuse.  
P2911.2.2  P2912.2.2  Residual disin fectants. Where 
chlorine is used for disinfection, the nonpotable water 
shall contain not more than 4 parts per million (4  mg/L) 
of free chlorine, combined chlorine, or total chlorine. 
Where ozone is used for disinfection, the nonpotable 
water shall not ex ceed 0.1 parts per million (by volume) 
of ozone at the point of use.  
P2911.2.3  P2912.2.3  Filtration. Water collected for reuse 
shall be filtered as required for the intended end use. 
Filters shall be accessible for inspection and 
maintenance. Filters shal l utilize a pressure gauge or 
other approved method to indicate when a filter requires 
servicing or replacement. Shutoff valves installed 
immediately upstream and downstream of the filter shall 
be included to allow for isolation during maintenance.  
P2911.2.4  P2912.2.4  Filtration required. Rainwater 
utilized for water closet and urinal flushing applications 
shall be filtered by a 100 micron or finer filter.  
P2911.3  P2912.3  Collection surface. Rainwater shall be 
collected only from aboveground impervi ous roofing 
surfaces constructed from approved materials. Overflow 
or discharge piping from appliances or equipment or 
both, including but not limited to evaporative coolers, 
water heaters, and solar water heaters shall not discharge 
onto rainwater collect ion surfaces.  
P2911.4  P2912.4  Collection surface diversion. At a 
minimum, the first 0.04 inches (1.016  mm) of each rain 
event of 25 gallons (94.6  L) per 1000 square feet (92.9 
m2) shall be diverted from the storage tank by automatic 
means and not require the operation of manually operated 
valves or devices. Diverted water shall not drain onto 
other collection surfaces that are discharging to the 
rainwater system or to the sanitary  sewer. Such water 
shall be diverted from the storage tank and discharged in 
an approved location.  
P2911.5  P2912.5  Pre-tank filtration. Downspouts, 
conductors, and leaders shall be connected to a pre -tank 
filtration device. The filtration device shall not  permit 
materials larger than 0.015 inches (0.4  mm).  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1823 P2911.6  P2912.6  Roof gutters and downspouts. Gutters 
and downspouts shall be constructed of materials that are 
compatible with the collection surface and the rainwater 
quality for the desired end use. J oints shall be made 
watertight.  
P2911.6.1  P2912.6.1  Slope. Roof gutters, leaders, and 
rainwater collection piping shall slope continuously 
toward collection inlets. Gutters and downspouts shall 
have a slope of not less than 1 unit in 96 units along their 
entire length, and shall not permit the collection or 
pooling of water at any point.  
P2911.6.2  P2912.6.2  Size. Gutters and downspouts shall 
be installed and sized in accordance with local rainfall 
rates.  
P2911.6.3  P2912.6.3  Cleanouts. Cleanouts or other 
approved openings shall be provided to permit access to 
all filters, flushes, pipes, and downspouts.  
P2911.7  P2912.7  Storage tanks. Storage tanks utilized in 
rainwater nonpotable water systems shall comply with 
Section P2909.10  P2910.10 .  
P2911.8  P2912.8  Location. Storage tanks shall be located 
with a minimum horizontal distance between various 
elements as indicated in Table P2911.8.1  P2912.8.1 .  
Table P2911.8.1  P2912.8.1  
Location of Rainwater Storage Tanks  
Element  Minimum Horizontal 
Distance from Storage  
Tank (feet)  
Lot line adjoining 
private lots  5 
Sewage systems  5 
Septic tanks  5 
P2911.9  P2912.9  Valves. Valves shall be installed in 
collection and conveyance drainage piping of rainwater 
nonpotable water systems in accordance with Sections 
P2911.9.1  P2912.9.1  and P2911.9.2  P2912.9.2 .  
P2911.9.1  P2912.9.1  Influent diversion. A means shall be 
provided to divert storage tank influent to allow 
maintenance and repair of the storage tank system.  
P2911.9.2  P2912.9.2  Backwater valve. Backwater valves 
shall b e installed on each overflow and tank drain pipe to 
prevent unwanted water from draining back into the 
storage tank. If the overflow and drain piping 
arrangement is installed to physically not allow water to 
drain back into the tank, such as in the form of  an air gap, 
backwater valves shall not be required. Backwater valves 
shall be constructed and installed in accordance with 
Section P3008.  P2911.10  P2912.10  Tests and inspections. Tests and 
inspections shall be performed in accordance with 
Sections P2911. 10.1 through P2911.10.2  P2912.10.1 and 
P2912.10.2 .  
P2911.10.1  P2912.10.1  Roof gutter inspection and test. 
Roof gutters shall be inspected to verify that the 
installation and slope is in accordance with Section 
P2911.6.1  P2912.6.1 . Gutters shall be tested by pouring a 
minimum of one gallon of water into the end of the gutter 
opposite the collection point. The gutter being tested 
shall not leak and shall not retain standing water.  
P2911.10.2  P2912.10.2  Collection surface diversion test. 
A collection surface  diversion test shall be performed by 
introducing water into the gutters or onto the collection 
surface area. Diversion of the first quantity of water in 
accordance with the requirements of Section P2911.4  
P2912.4  shall be verified.  
[ 83. 98. ] Delete Sections P2912.11 through P2912.16.  
[ 84. 99. ] Delete Section P2913 in its entirety.  
[ 85. 100. ] Add Section P3002.2.2 to read:  
P3002.2.2 Tracer wire. Nonmetallic sanitary sewer 
piping that discharges to public systems shall be 
locatable. An insulated co pper tracer wire, 18 AWG 
minimum in size and suitable for direct burial or an 
equivalent product, shall be utilized. The wire shall be 
installed in the same trench as the sewer within 12 inches 
(305 mm) of the pipe and shall be installed from within 
five f eet of the building wall to the point where the 
building sewer intersects with the public system. At a 
minimum, one end of the wire shall terminate above 
grade in an accessible location that is resistant to physical 
damage, such as with a cleanout or at th e building wall.  
[ 86. 101. ] Add an exception to Section P3301.1 to read:  
Exception: Rainwater nonpotable water systems shall be 
permitted in accordance with the applicable provisions of 
Sections P2910 and P2912.  
113. [ 87. 102. ] Add Section E3601.8 to read:  
E3601.8 Energizing service equipment. The building 
official shall give permission to energize the electrical 
service equipment of a one -family or two -family 
dwelling unit when all of the following requirements 
have been app roved:  
1. The service wiring and equipment, including the meter 
socket enclosure, shall be installed and the service wiring 
terminated.  
2. The grounding electrode system shall be installed and 
terminated.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1824  3. At least one receptacle outlet on a ground fa ult 
protected circuit shall be installed and the circuit wiring 
terminated.  
4. Service equipment covers shall be installed.  
5. The building roof covering shall be installed.  
6. Temporary electrical service equipment shall be 
suitable for wet locations u nless the interior is dry and 
protected from the weather.  
114. [ 88. 103. ] Change Section E3802.4 to read:  
E3802.4 In unfinished basements. Where Type SE or 
NM cable is run at angles with joists in unfinished 
basements, cable assemblies containing two o r more 
conductors of sizes 6 AWG and larger and assemblies 
containing three or more conductors of sizes 8 AWG and 
larger shall not require additional protection where 
attached directly to the bottom of the joists. Smaller 
cables shall be run either through  bored holes in joists or 
on running boards. Type NM or SE cable installed on the 
wall of an unfinished basement shall be permitted to be 
installed in a listed conduit or tubing or shall be protected 
in accordance with Table E3802.1. Conduit or tubing 
shall be provided with a suitable insulating bushing or 
adapter at the point the where cable enters the raceway. 
The sheath of the Type NM or SE cable shall extend 
through the conduit or tubing and into the outlet or 
device box not less than 1/4 inch (6.4 mm).  The cable 
shall be secured within 12 inches (305 mm) of the point 
where the cable enters the conduit or tubing. Metal 
conduit, tubing, and metal outlet boxes shall be 
connected to an equipment grounding conductor 
complying with Section E3908.13.  
115. [ 89. 104. ] Change Section E3902.12  E3902.16  to 
read:  
E3902.12  E3902.16  Arc-fault protection of bedroom 
outlets. All branch  Branch  circuits that supply 120 -volt, 
single phase, 15 -ampere and 20 -ampere outlets installed 
in bedrooms shall be protected by a com bination type 
arc-fault circuit interrupter installed to provide protection 
of the branch circuit.  any of the following:  
1. A listed combination -type arc -fault circuit interrupter 
installed to provide protection of the entire branch 
circuit.  
2. A listed br anch/feeder -type AFCI installed at the 
origin of the branch -circuit in combination with a listed 
outlet branch -circuit type arc -fault circuit interrupter 
installed at the first outlet box on the branch circuit. The 
first outlet box in the branch circuit sh all be marked to 
indicate that it is the first outlet of the circuit.  
3. A listed supplemental arc protection circuit breaker 
installed at the origin of the branch circuit in combination with a listed outlet branch -circuit type arc -fault circuit 
interrupte r installed at the first outlet box on the branch 
circuit where all of the following conditions are met:  
3.1. The branch -circuit wiring shall be continuous from 
the branch -circuit overcurrent device to the outlet 
branch -circuit arc -fault circuit interrupte r. 
3.2. The maximum length of the branch -circuit wiring 
from the branch -circuit overcurrent device to the first 
outlet shall not exceed 50 feet (15.2 m) for 14 AWG 
conductors and 70 feet (21.3 m) for 12 AWG conductors.  
3.3. The first outlet box on the bran ch circuit shall be 
marked to indicate that it is the first outlet on the circuit.  
4. A listed outlet branch -circuit type arc -fault circuit 
interrupter installed at the first outlet on the branch 
circuit in combination with a listed branch -circuit 
overcurr ent protective device where all of the following 
conditions are met:  
4.1. The branch -circuit wiring shall be continuous from 
the branch -circuit overcurrent device to the outlet 
branch -circuit arc -fault circuit interrupter.  
4.2. The maximum length of the br anch -circuit wiring 
from the branch -circuit overcurrent device to the first 
outlet shall not exceed 50 feet (15.2 m) for 14 AWG 
conductors and 70 feet (21.3 m) for 12 AWG conductors.  
4.3. The first outlet box on the branch circuit shall be 
marked to indica te that it is the first outlet on the circuit.  
4.4. The combination of the branch -circuit overcurrent 
device and outlet branch -circuit AFCI shall be identified 
as meeting the requirements for a system combination -
type AFCI and shall be listed as such.  
5. W here metal outlet boxes and junction boxes and 
RMC, IMC, EMT, Type MC or steel -armored Type AC 
cables meeting the requirements of Section E3908.8, 
metal wireways or metal auxiliary gutters are installed 
for the portion of the branch circuit between the bra nch-
circuit overcurrent device and the first outlet, a listed 
branch -circuit type AFCI installed at the first outlet shall 
be considered as providing protection for the remaining 
portion of the branch circuit.  
6. Where a listed metal or nonmetallic conduit  or tubing 
or Type MC cable is encased in not less than two inches 
(50.8 mm) of concrete for the portion of the branch 
circuit between the branch -circuit overcurrent device and 
the first outlet, a listed outlet branch -circuit type AFCI 
installed at the fir st outlet shall be considered as 
providing protection for the remaining portion of the 
branch circuit.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1825 Exceptions  Exception :  
1. Where an outlet branch -circuit Type AFCI is installed 
at the first outlet to provide protection for the remaining 
portion of the branch circuit, the portion of the branch 
circuit between the branch -circuit overcurrent device and 
the first outlet shall b e installed with metal outlet and 
junction boxes and RMC, IMC, EMT, Type MC or steel 
armored Type AC cables meeting the requirements of 
Section E3908.8.  
2. Where an outlet branch -circuit Type AFCI is installed 
at the first outlet to provide protection for  the remaining 
portion of the branch circuit, the portion of the branch 
circuit between the branch -circuit overcurrent device and 
the first outlet shall be installed with metal or 
nonmetallic conduit or tubing that is encased in not less 
than 2 inches (51 mm) of concrete.  
3. AFCI protection is not required for an individual 
branch circuit supplying only a fire alarm system where 
the branch circuit is wired with metal outlet and junction 
boxes and RMC, IMC, EMT or steel -sheathed armored 
cable Type AC, or Ty pe MC meeting the requirements of 
Section E3908.8.  
116. Add  [ 90. 105. ] Change  the following  referenced 
standards to in Chapter 44 as follows (standards not shown 
remain the same) :  
Standard 
Reference 
Number  Title  Referenced in 
Code Section 
Number  
ANSI LC1/CSA 
6.26-14 Fuel Gas Piping 
Systems Using 
Corrugated 
Stainless Steel 
Tubing (CSST)  G2411.1, 
G2411.1.1, 
G2414.5.3  
ICC ISPSC -12 International 
Swimming Pool 
and Spa Code  R325.1  
NFPA 13R -10 Installation of 
Sprinkler 
Systems in 
Residential 
Occupancies Up 
to and Including 
Four Stories in 
Height  R310.1  
NSF 50 -09 Equipment for 
Swimming 
Pools, Spas, Hot 
Tubs and Other 
Recreational 
Water Facilities  P2910.6.1  
P2911.6.1  
T. U. Add "Marinas" to the list of occupancies in Section 
312.1 of the IBC.  13VAC5 -63-220. Chapter 4 Special detailed requirements 
based on use and occupancy.  
A. Delete Section 403.4.5 of the IBC.  
B. Change Section 407.4.1.1 of the IBC to read:  
407.4.1.1 Special locking arrangement. Means of egress 
doors shall be permitted to contain locking devices 
restricting the means of egress in areas in which the 
clinical needs of the patients require restraint of movement, 
where all of the following conditions are met:  
1. The locks release upon activation of the fire alarm 
system or the loss of power.  
2. The building is equipped with an approved automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.  
3. A manual release device is provided at a nursing 
station responsible for the area.  
4. A key -operated switch or other manual device is 
provided a djacent to each door equipped with the locking 
device. Such switch or other device, when operated, shall 
result in direct interruption of power to the lock -- 
independent of the control system electronics.  
5. All staff shall have keys or other means to unl ock the 
switch or other device or each door provided with the 
locking device.  
C. Add Section 407.11 to the IBC to read:  
407.11 Emergency power systems. Emergency power shall 
be provided for medical life support equipment, operating, 
recovery, intensive car e, emergency rooms, fire detection 
and alarm systems in any Group I -2 occupancy licensed by 
the Virginia Department of Health as a hospital, nursing 
home or hospice facility.  
D. Add Section 408.2.1 to the IBC to read:  
408.2.1 Short -term holding areas. Sho rt-term holding areas 
shall be permitted to comply with Section 427 429.  
E. Change Section 408.6 of the IBC to read:  
408.6 Smoke barrier. Occupancies classified as Group I -3 
shall have smoke barriers complying with Sections 408.8 
and 709 to divide every s tory occupied by residents for 
sleeping, or any other story having an occupant load of 50 
or more persons, into no fewer than two smoke 
compartments.  
F. Change Section 408.9 of the IBC and add Sections 
408.9.1 through 408.9.3 to the IBC to read:  
408.9 Sm oke control. Smoke control for each smoke 
compartment shall be in accordance with Sections 408.9.1 
through 408.9.3.  
Exception: Smoke compartments with operable windows 
or windows that are readily breakable.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1826  408.9.1 Locations. An engineered smoke control system 
shall comply with Section 909 and shall be provided in the 
following locations:  
1. Dormitory areas.  
2. Celled areas.  
3. General housing areas.  
4. Intake areas.  
5. Medical celled or medical dormitory areas.  
6. Interior recreation areas.  
408.9. 2 Compliance. The engineered smoke control system 
shall provide and maintain a tenable environment in the 
area of origin and shall comply with all of the following:  
1. Shall facilitate the timely evacuation and relocation of 
occupants from the area of ori gin.  
2. Shall be independent of exhaust systems under Chapter 
5 of the IMC.  
3. Duration of operation in accordance with Section 
909.4.6.  
4. The pressurization method shall be permitted and shall 
provide a minimum of 24 air changes per hour of exhaust, 
and 20 air changes per hour of makeup, and shall comply 
with Section 909.6. If the pressurization method is not 
utilized, the exhaust method shall be provided and shall 
comply with Section 909.8.  
408.9.3 Corridors. Egress corridors within smoke 
compartments shall be kept free and clear of smoke.  
G. Add an exception to  Section 414.1.1.1 to  414.2 of  the 
IBC to read:  
414.1.1.1 Amendments. The following changes shall be 
made to the IFC for the use of  this section:  
1. Change Section 2306.8.1 of the IFC and add Section 
2306.8.6 to the IFC to read:  
2306.8.1 Listed. Dispensers shall be listed in accordance 
with UL 87A. Hoses, nozzles, breakaway fittings, 
swivels, flexible connectors or dispenser emergen cy 
shutoff valves, vapor recovery systems, leak detection 
devices, and pumps used in alcohol -blended fuel -
dispensing systems shall be listed for the specific 
purpose.  
2306.8.6 Compatibility. Dispensers shall only be used 
with the fuels for which they have  been listed, which are 
marked on the product. Field installed components 
including hose assemblies, breakaway couplings, swivel 
connectors, and hose nozzle valves shall be provided in 
accordance with the listing and the marking on the unit.  2. Add the fo llowing reference standard to Chapter 80 of 
the IFC:  
Standard 
reference 
number  Title  Referenced in 
code section 
number  
UL 87A -12 Outline of 
Investigation for 
Power -Operated 
Dispensing 
Devices for 
Gasoline and 
Gasoline/Ethanol 
Blends with 
Nominal Ethanol 
Concentrations 
up to 85%  2306.8.1  
Exception: Higher education teaching and research 
laboratories shall be permitted to comply with Section 430.  
H. Add Section 414.6.2 to the IBC to read:  
414.6.2 Other regulations. The installation, repair, upgrade, 
and closure of underground and aboveground storage tanks 
subject to the Virginia State Water Control Board 
regulations 9VAC25 -91 and 9VAC25 -580 shall be 
governed by those regulations, which are hereby 
incorporated by reference to be an enforceable part of this 
code. Where differences occur between the provisions of 
this code and the incorporated provisions of the State 
Water Control Board regulations, the provisions of the 
State Water Control Boa rd regulations shall apply. 
Provisions of the International Fire Code addressing 
closure of such tanks that are subject to the Virginia State 
Water Control Board regulations 9VAC25 -91 and 
9VAC25 -580 shall not be applicable.  
I. Change the title of Section 420 and change Sections 420.1 
and 420.4 of the IBC to read:  
Section 420 Groups I -1, R-1, R-2, R-3, and R -4.  
420.1 General. Occupancies in Groups I -1, R-1, R-2, R-3, 
and R -4 shall comply with the provisions of Sections 420.1 
through 420.6 and other applic able provisions of this code.  
420.4 Smoke barriers in Group I -1 Condition 2. Smoke 
barriers shall be provided in Group I -1 Condition 2 to 
subdivide every story used by persons receiving care or 
treatment or sleeping and to divide other stories, with an 
occupant load of 50 or more persons, into no fewer than 
two smoke compartments. Such stories shall be divided 
into smoke compartments with an area of not more than 
22,500 square feet (2092 m2) and the travel distance from 
any point in a smoke compartment to a smoke barrier door 
shall not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm). The smoke barrier 
shall be in accordance with Section 709.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1827 J. Add Section 420.4.1 to the IBC to read:  
420.4.1 Refuge area. Refuge areas shall be provided within 
each smoke compartment. The size of the refuge area shall 
accommodate the occupants and care recipients from the 
adjoining smoke compartment. Where a smoke 
compartment is adjoined by two or more smoke 
compartments, the minimum area of the refuge area shall 
accommodate the largest occupant  load of the adjoining 
compartments. The size of the refuge area shall provide the 
following:  
1. Not less than 15 net square feet (1.4 m2) for each care 
recipient.  
2. Not less than 6 net square feet (0.56 m2) for other 
occupants.  
Areas or spaces permitt ed to be included in the calculation 
of the refuge area are corridors, lounge, or dining areas and 
other low hazard areas.  
K. Change Section 420.5 of the IBC and add Section 420.6 
to the IBC to read:  
420.5 Automatic sprinkler system. Group R occupancies 
shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler 
system in accordance with Section 903.2.8. Group I -1 
occupancies shall be equipped throughout with an 
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 
903.2.6. Quick response or residential auto matic sprinklers 
shall be installed in accordance with Section 903.3.2.  
420.6 Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms. Fire alarm 
systems and smoke alarms shall be provided in Groups I -1, 
R-1, R-2, and R -4 occupancies in accordance with Sections 
907.2.6, 907. 2.8, 907.2.9, and 907.2.10, respectively. 
Single -station or multiple -station smoke alarms shall be 
provided in Groups I -1, R-2, R-3, and R -4 in accordance 
with Section 907.2.11.  
L. I. Add IBC Section 425 427 Manufactured Homes and 
Industrialized Buildings .  
M. J. Add Section 425.1  427.1  to the IBC to read:  
425.1  427.1  General. The provisions of this section shall 
apply to the installation or erection of manufactured homes 
subject to the Virginia Manufactured Home Safety 
Regulations (13VAC5 -95) and industrialized buildings 
subject to the Virginia Industrialized Building  Safety 
Regulations (13VAC5 -91).  
Note: Local building departments are also responsible for 
the enforcement of certain provisions of the Virginia 
Manufactured Home Safety Regulations (13VAC5 -95) and 
the Virginia Industrialized Building Safety Regulations 
(13VAC5 -91) as set out in those regulations.  N. K. Add Section 425.2  427.2  to the IBC to read:  
425.2  427.2  Site work for manufactured homes. Footing 
design, basements, grading, drainage, decks, stoops, 
porches and utility connections shall comply with the  
provisions of this code applicable to Group R -5 
occupancies. Additionally, all applicable provisions of 
Chapter 1 of this code, including but not limited to 
requirements for permits, inspections, certificates of 
occupancy and requiring compliance, are app licable to the 
installation and set -up of a manufactured home. Where the 
installation or erection of a manufactured home utilizes 
components that are to be concealed, the installer shall 
notify the building official that an inspection is necessary 
and assu re that an inspection is performed and approved 
prior to concealment of such components, unless the 
building official has agreed to an alternative method of 
verification.  
O. L. Add Section 425.2.1  427.2.1  to the IBC to read:  
425.2.1  427.2.1  Relocated man ufactured homes. 
Installation, set -up, and site work for relocated 
manufactured homes shall comply with the provisions of 
this code and shall include the option of using the 
manufacturer's installations instructions or the federal 
Model Manufactured Home I nstallation Standards (24 CFR 
Part 3285) for the technical requirements.  
P. M. Add Section 425.2.2  427.2.2  to the IBC to read:  
425.2.2  427.2.2  Alterations and repairs to manufactured 
homes. Alterations and repairs to manufactured homes 
shall either be in accordance with federal Manufactured 
Home Construction and Safety Standards (24 CFR Part 
3280) or in accordance with the alteration and repair 
provisions this code.  
Q. N. Add Section 425.2.3  427.2.3  to the IBC to read:  
425.2.3  427.2.3  Additions to manufactured homes. 
Additions to manufactured homes shall comply with this 
code and shall be structurally independent of the 
manufactured home, or wh en not structurally independent, 
shall be evaluated by an RDP to determine that the addition 
does not cause the manufactured home to become out of 
compliance with federal Manufactured Home Construction 
and Safety Standards (24 CFR Part 3280).  
R. O. Add Se ction 425.3  427.3  to the IBC to read:  
425.3  427.3  Wind load requirements for manufactured 
homes. Manufactured homes shall be anchored to 
withstand the wind loads established by the federal 
regulation for the area in which the manufactured home is 
installe d. For the purpose of this code, Wind Zone II of the 
federal regulation shall include the cities of Chesapeake, 
Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1828  S. P. Add Section 425.4  427.4  to the IBC to read:  
425.4  427.4  Skirting requirements for manufactured 
homes. As used in this section, "skirting" means a weather -
resistant material used to enclose the space from the 
bottom of the manufactured home to grade. In accordance 
with § 36 -99.8 of the Code of Virginia, manufactured 
homes installed or relocated shall  have skirting installed 
within 60 days of occupancy of the home. Skirting 
materials shall be durable, suitable for exterior exposures 
and installed in accordance with the manufacturer's 
installation instructions. Skirting shall be secured as 
necessary to ensure stability, to minimize vibrations, to 
minimize susceptibility to wind damage and to compensate 
for possible frost heave. Each manufactured home shall 
have a minimum of one opening in the skirting providing 
access to any water supply or sewer drain c onnections 
under the home. Such openings shall be a minimum of 18 
inches (457 mm) in any dimension and not less than three 
square feet (.28 m2) in area. The access panel or door shall 
not be fastened in a manner requiring the use of a special 
tool to open or remove the panel or door. On -site 
fabrication of the skirting by the owner or installer of the 
home shall be acceptable, provided that the material meets 
the requirements of this code. In addition, as a requirement 
of this code, skirting for the install ation and set -up of a 
new manufactured home shall also comply with the 
requirements of 24 CFR Part 3285 – Model Manufactured 
Home Installation Standards.  
T. Q. Add Section 425.5  427.5  to the IBC to read:  
425.5  427.5  Site work for industrialized buildings . Site 
work for the erection and installation of an industrialized 
building shall comply with the manufacturer's installation 
instructions. To the extent that any aspect of the erection or 
installation of an industrialized building is not covered by 
the ma nufacturer's installation instructions, this code shall 
be applicable, including the use of the IRC for any 
construction work where the industrialized building would 
be classified as a Group R -5 building. In addition, all 
administrative requirements of thi s code for permits, 
inspections, and certificates of occupancy are also 
applicable. Further, the building official may require the 
submission of plans and specifications for details of items 
needed to comprise the finished building that are not 
included or  specified in the manufacturer's instructions, 
including, but not limited to, footings, foundations, 
supporting structures, proper anchorage, and the 
completion of the plumbing, mechanical, and electrical 
systems. Where the installation or erection of an 
industrialized building utilizes components that are to be 
concealed, the installer shall notify the building official 
that an inspection is necessary and assure that an 
inspection is performed and approved prior to concealment 
of such components, unless th e building official has agreed 
to an alternative method of verification.  Exception: Temporary family health care structures 
installed pursuant to § 15.2 -2292.1 of the Code of Virginia 
shall not be required or permitted to be placed on a 
permanent foundati on, but shall otherwise remain subject 
to all pertinent provisions of this section.  
U. R. Add Section 425.6  427.6  to the IBC to read:  
425.6  427.6  Relocated industrialized buildings; alterations 
and additions. Industrialized buildings constructed prior to  
January 1, 1972, shall be subject to Section 117 when 
relocated. Alterations and additions to any existing 
industrialized buildings shall be subject to pertinent 
provisions of this code. Building officials shall be 
permitted to require the submission of p lans and 
specifications for the model to aid in the evaluation of the 
proposed alteration or addition. Such plans and 
specifications shall be permitted to be submitted in 
electronic or other available format acceptable to the 
building official.  
V. S. Add Section 425.7  427.7  to the IBC to read:  
425.7  427.7  Change of occupancy of industrialized 
buildings. Change of occupancy of industrialized buildings 
is regulated by the Virginia Industrialized Building Safety 
Regulations (13VAC5 -91). When the industrializ ed 
building complies with those regulations for the new 
occupancy, the building official shall issue a new 
certificate of occupancy under the USBC.  
W. T. Add IBC Section 426 428 Aboveground Liquid 
Fertilizer Tanks.  
X. U. Add Sections 426.1  428.1  through 426.6  428.6  to the 
IBC to read:  
426.1  428.1  General. This section shall apply to the 
construction of ALFSTs and shall supersede any 
conflicting requirements in other provisions of this code. 
ALFSTs shall also comply with any applicable 
nonconflicting requ irements of this code.  
426.1.1  428.1.1  When change of occupancy rules apply. A 
change of occupancy to use a tank as an ALFST occurs 
when there is a change in the use of a tank from storing 
liquids other than liquid fertilizers to a use of storing liquid 
fertilizer and when the type of liquid fertilizer being stored 
has a difference of at least 20% of the specific gravity or 
operating temperature, or both, or a significant change in 
the material's compatibility.  
426.2  428.2  Standards. Newly constructed wel ded steel 
ALFSTs shall comply with API 650 and TFI RMIP, as 
applicable. Newly constructed ALFSTs constructed of 
materials other than welded steel shall be constructed in 
accordance with accepted engineering practice to prevent 
the discharge of liquid ferti lizer and shall be constructed of 
materials that are resistant to corrosion, puncture or 
cracking. In addition, newly constructed ALFSTs Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1829 constructed of materials other than welded steel shall 
comply with TFI RMIP, as applicable. For the purposes of 
this co de, the use of TFI RMIP shall be construed as 
mandatory and any language in TFI RMIP, such as, but not 
limited to, the terms "should" or "may" which indicate that 
a provision is only a recommendation or a guideline shall 
be taken as a requirement. ALFSTs s hall be placarded in 
accordance with NFPA 704.  
Exception: Sections 4.1.4, 4.2.5, 5.1.2, 5.2.8, 5.3 and 
8.1(d)(i) of TFI RMIP shall not be construed as mandatory.  
426.3  428.3  Secondary containment. When ALFSTs are 
newly constructed and when there is a change of 
occupancy to use a tank as an ALFST, a secondary 
containment system designed and constructed to prevent 
any liquid fertilizer from reaching the surface water, 
groundwat er or adjacent land before cleanup occurs shall 
be provided. The secondary containment system may 
include dikes, berms or retaining walls, curbing, diversion 
ponds, holding tanks, sumps, vaults, double -walled tanks, 
liners external to the tank, or other ap proved means and 
shall be capable of holding up to 110% of the capacity of 
the ALFST as certified by an RDP.  
426.4  428.4  Repair, alteration and reconstruction of 
ALFSTs. Repair, alteration and reconstruction of ALFSTs 
shall comply with applicable provisio ns of API 653 and 
TFI RMIP.  
426.5  428.5  Inspection. Applicable inspections as required 
by and in accordance with API 653 and TFI RMIP shall be 
performed for repairs and alterations to ALFSTS, the 
reconstruction of ALFSTs and when there is a change of 
occu pancy to use a tank as an ALFST. When required by 
API 653 or TFI RMIP, such inspections shall occur prior to 
the use of the ALFST.  
426.6  428.6  Abandoned ALFSTs. Abandoned ALFSTs 
shall comply with applicable provisions of Section 
5704.2.13.2 of the IFC.  
Y. V. Add IBC Section 427 429 Short -term Holding Areas.  
Z. W. Add Section 427.1  429.1  to the IBC to read:  
427.1  429.1  General. In all groups other than Group E, 
short -term holding areas shall be permitted to be classified 
as the main occupancy, provided a ll of the following are 
met:  
1. Provisions are made for the release of all restrained or 
detained occupants of short -term holding areas at all 
times.  
2. Aggregate area of short -term holding areas shall not 
occupy more than 10% of the building area of the  story 
in which they are located and shall not exceed the tabular 
values for building area in Table 503 506.2 , without 
building area increases.  3. Restrained or detained occupant load of each short -
term holding area shall not exceed 20.  
4. Aggregate rest rained or detained occupant load in 
short -term holding areas per building shall not exceed 80.  
5. Compliance with Sections 408.3.7, 408.3.8, 408.4, and 
408.7, as would be applicable to I -3 occupancies.  
6. Requirements of the main occupancy in which short -
term holding areas are located shall be met.  
7. Fire areas containing short -term holding areas shall be 
provided with a fire alarm system and automatic smoke 
detection system complying with Section 907.2.6.3, as 
would be applicable to I -3 occupancies.  
8. Where each fire area containing short -term holding 
areas exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m2), such fire 
areas shall be provided with an automatic sprinkler 
system complying with Section 903.3.  
9. Short -term holding areas shall be separated from other 
short-term holding areas and adjacent spaces by smoke 
partitions complying with Section 710.  
X. Add IBC Section 430 Higher Education Laboratories.  
Y. Add Sections 430.1 through 430.4 to the IBC to read:  
430.1 Scope. Group B teaching and research laboratori es in 
educational occupancies above the 12th grade complying 
with the requirements of this section shall be permitted to 
comply with Table 430.3, 430.4(1), or 430.4(2) without 
requiring classification as a Group H occupancy. Except as 
specified in this sec tion, such laboratories shall comply 
with all applicable provisions of this code. In addition, as 
set out in Section 5001.7 of the SFPC, approval under this 
section is contingent upon operational requirements in the 
SFPC being complied with and maintained.  
430.2 Application. The provisions of this section shall be 
applied as exceptions or additions to applicable 
requirements of this code.  
430.3 Laboratory suite construction. Where laboratory 
suites are provided, they shall be constructed in accordance 
with this section. The number of laboratory suites and 
percentage of maximum allowable quantities of hazardous 
materials in laboratory suites shall be in accordance with 
Table 430.3.  
430.3.1 Separation from adjacent areas. Laboratory suites 
shall be separated f rom other portions of the building in 
accordance with the most restrictive of either (i) Table 
430.3 with fire barriers constructed in accordance with 
Section 707 and horizontal assemblies constructed in 
accordance with Section 711 or (ii) Section 508.4. W here 
individual laboratories within a laboratory suite are 
separated from each other, the separation shall consist of 
one-hour fire barriers.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1830  Exception: Where an individual laboratory suite occupies 
more than one story, the fire resistance rating of 
interm ediate floors contained within the laboratory suite 
shall comply with the requirements of this code.  
430.3.2 Separation from other laboratory suites. 
Laboratory suites shall be separated from other laboratory 
suites in accordance with Table 430.3.  
430.3.3 Floor assembly fire resistance. The floor assembly 
supporting the laboratory suite and the construction 
supporting the floor of the laboratory suite shall have a fire 
resistance rating of not less than two hours.  
Exception: The floor assembly of the labora tory suite and 
the construction supporting the floor of the laboratory suite 
are allowed to be one -hour fire resistance rated in buildings 
of Types IIA, IIIA, and VA construction, provided that the 
building is three or fewer stories.  
430.3.4 Maximum number . The maximum number of 
laboratory suites per floor shall be in accordance with 
Table 430.3. Where a building contains both laboratory 
suites complying with Section 430.3 and control areas 
complying with Section 414.2, the total number of 
laboratory suites  and control areas shall not exceed the 
maximum number of laboratory suites in accordance with 
Table 430.3.  
430.3.5 Standby or emergency power. Standby or 
emergency power shall be provided in accordance with 
Section 414.5.2 where laboratory suites are located above 
the sixth story above grade plane or located in a story 
below grade plane.  
430.3.6 Ventilation. Ventilation shall be in accordance 
with the International Mechanical Code. The design and 
installation of ducts from chemical fume hoods shall be in 
accordance with NFPA 91.  
430.3.7 Liquid tight floor. Portions of the laboratory suite 
where hazardous materials are present shall be provided 
with a liquid tight floor.  
430.3.8 Automatic fire sprinkler systems. Buildings shall 
be equipped throughout with an approved automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.  
430.3.9 Automatic fire alarm and detection system. 
Laboratory suites shall be equipped throughout with an 
automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 
907.2. Th e building shall be equipped throughout with an 
automatic fire alarm system in accordance with Section 
907.2.  
430.3.10 Percentage of maximum allowable quantity in 
each laboratory suite. The percentage of maximum 
allowable quantities in each laboratory suit e shall be in 
accordance with Table 430.3.  Table 430.3  
Design and Number of Laboratory Suites Per Floor  
Floor Level  Percentage 
of the 
Maximum 
Allowable 
Quantity 
per Lab 
Suitea Number 
of Lab 
Suites 
per 
Floor  Fire-
Resistance 
Rating for 
Fire 
Barriers in 
Hour sb 
Above 
Grade 
Plane  21+ 5 1 2 
16-20 25 1 2 
11-15 50 1 2 
7-10 50 2 2 
4-6 75 4 1 
3 100 6 1 
1-2 100 8 1 
Below 
Grade 
Plane  1 75 4 1 
2 50 2 1 
Lower 
than 2  Not Allowed  Not 
Allowed  Not Allowed  
a. Percentage shall be of the maximum allowable quantity 
per control area shown in Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2), 
with all increases allowed in the notes to those tables.  
b. Fire barriers shall include walls, floors, and ceilings 
necessary to provide separation from other portions of the 
building.  
430.4  Teaching and research laboratories utilizing control 
areas. Group B teaching and research laboratories in 
educational occupancies above the 12th grade utilizing 
control areas are permitted to increase amounts of 
hazardous materials stipulated in Section 4 14.2 without the 
laboratories being classified as Group H. The percentage of 
maximum allowable quantities of hazardous materials per 
control area and the number of control areas permitted at 
each floor level within a building shall be permitted to 
comply w ith Table 430.4(1) in buildings equipped 
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or shall be permitted to 
comply with Table 430.4(2) in buildings not equipped 
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in 
accor dance with Section 903.3.1.1. In addition, as set out 
in Section 5001.7 of the SFPC, approval under this section Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1831 is contingent upon operational requirements in the SFPC 
being complied with and maintained.  
Table 430.4(1)  
Design and Number of Control Areas i n Buildings 
Equipped Throughout with an Automatic Sprinkler System 
in Accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 with Group B 
Teaching and Research Laboratories in Educational 
Occupancies above the 12th Grade  
Floor Level  Percentage 
of the 
Maximum 
Allowable 
Quantit y 
per 
Control 
Areaa Number 
of 
Control 
Areas 
per 
Floor  Fire-
Resistance 
Rating for 
Fire 
Barriers 
and 
Horizontal 
Assemblies 
in Hoursb 
Above 
Grade 
Plane  Higher 
than 
20 5 1 2 
11-20 10 1 2 
7-10 25 2 2 
4-6 50 2 2 
3 75 3 1 
1-2 100 4 1 
Below 
Grade 
Plane  1 75 3 1 
2 50 2 1 
Lower 
than 2  Not Allowed  Not 
Allowed  Not Allowed  
a. Percentage shall be of the maximum allowable quantity 
per control area shown in Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2), 
with all increases allowed in the notes to those tables.  
b. Separation  shall include fire barriers and horizontal 
assemblies as necessary to provide separation from other 
portions of the building.  
  Table 430.4(2)  
Design and Number of Control Areas in Buildings Not 
Equipped Throughout with an Automatic Sprinkler System in 
Accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 with Group B Teaching 
and Research Laboratories in Educational Occupancies above 
the 12th Grade  
Floor Level  Percentage 
of the 
Maximum 
Allowable 
Quantity 
per 
Control 
Areaa Number 
of 
Control 
Areas 
per 
Floor  Fire-
Resistance 
Rating for 
Fire 
Barriers 
and 
Horizontal 
Assemblies 
in Hoursb 
Above 
Grade 
Plane  Higher 
than 9  5 1 2 
7-9 10 2 2 
4-6 25 2 2 
3 75 2 1 
1-2 100 4 1 
Below 
Grade 
Plane  1 75 3 1 
2 50 2 1 
Lower 
than 2  Not 
Allowed  Not 
Allowed  Not 
Allowed  
a. Percentage shall be of the maximum allowable quantity per 
control area shown in Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2), with all 
increases allowed in the notes to those tables.  
b. Separation shall include fire barriers and horizontal 
assemblies as necessary to provide separati on from other 
portions of the building.  
430.4.1 Separation requirements. Control areas shall be 
separated from each other and from other non -control areas 
by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 
or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with 
Section 711, or both.  
430.4.2 Fire resistance rating requirements. The required 
fire-resistance rating for fire barriers shall be in accordance 
with Table 430.4(1) in buildings equipped throughout with 
an automatic sprinkler system in accor dance with Section 
903.3.1.1 or in accordance with Table 430.4(2) in buildings 
not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler 
system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. The floor 
assembly of the control area and the construction 
supporting the floor  of the control area shall have a fire -
resistance rating in accordance with Table 430.4(1) in 
buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1832  system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or in 
accordance with Table 430.4(2) in buildings not equipp ed 
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.  
Exception: The floor assembly of the control area and the 
construction supporting the floor of the control area are 
allowed to be one -hour fire resistance rated in build ings of 
Types IIA, IIIA, and VA construction, provided that the 
building is three or fewer stories.  
430.4.3 Standby or emergency power. Standby or 
emergency power shall be provided where control areas are 
located above the sixth floor level above grade pla ne or 
located in a floor level below grade plane.  
430.4.4 Restricted materials in storage and use. Where 
approved by the building official, the storage and use of 
the following hazardous materials prohibited by Table 
307.1(1) in buildings not equipped thro ughout with an 
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 
903.3.1.1, shall be allowed within a control area at 25% of 
Table 307.1(1) limits for a building equipped throughout 
with an automatic sprinkler system:  
1. Pyrophorics.  
2. Class 4 oxidize rs. 
No additional quantity increases shall be allowed. All such 
materials shall be stored and used in accordance with 
Section 5001.7 of the SFPC.  
430.4.5 Automatic fire alarm and detection system. The 
building shall be equipped throughout with an automatic  
fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907.2, and 
control areas where hazardous materials are used or stored 
shall be equipped throughout with an automatic fire 
detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.  
430.4.6 Ventilation. Ventilation shal l be in accordance 
with the International Mechanical code.  
13VAC5 -63-225. Chapter 5 General building heights and 
areas.  (Repealed.)   
A. Change Section 504.2 of the IBC to read:  
504.2 Automatic sprinkler system increase. Where a 
building is equipped throug hout with an approved 
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 
903.3.1.1, the value specified in Table 503 for maximum 
building height is increased by 20 feet (6096 mm) and the 
maximum number of stories is increased by one. These 
increases are  permitted in addition to the building area 
increase in accordance with Sections 506.2 and 506.3. For 
Group R buildings equipped throughout with an approved 
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 
903.3.1.2, the value specified in Table 503 f or maximum 
building height is increased by 20 feet (6096 mm) and the 
maximum number of stories is increased by one, but shall not exceed 60 feet (18 288 mm) or four stories, 
respectively.  
Exception: The use of an automatic sprinkler system to 
increase bui lding heights shall not be permitted for the 
following conditions:  
1. Buildings, or portions of buildings, classified as Group 
I-1 Condition 2, of Type IIB, III, IV, or V construction or 
Group I -2 occupancies of Type IIB, III, IV, or V 
construction.  
2. Buildings, or portions of buildings, classified as a Group 
H-1, H-2, H-3, or H -5 occupancy.  
3. Buildings where an automatic sprinkler system is 
substituted for fire -resistance rated construction in 
accordance with Table 601, Note d.  
B. Change Section 508.2.3 of the IBC to read:  
508.2.3 Allowable building area and height. The allowable 
building area and height of the building containing 
accessory occupancies shall be based on the allowable 
building area and height for the main occupancy in 
accordance with Section 503.1. The buildi ng area of the 
accessory occupancies shall be in accordance with Section 
508.2.1.  
13VAC5 -63-230. Chapter 7 Fire and smoke protection 
features.  
A. Change Section 703.7 of the IBC to read:  
703.7 Fire -resistance assembly marking. Where there is a 
concealed  floor, floor -ceiling, or attic space, the fire walls, 
fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers, or any other 
wall required to have protected openings or penetrations 
shall be designated above ceilings and on the inside of all 
ceiling access doors th at provide access to such fire rated 
assemblies by signage having letters no smaller than one 
inch (25.4 mm) in height. Such signage shall indicate the 
fire-resistance rating of the assembly and the type of 
assembly and be provided at horizontal intervals of no 
more than eight feet (2438 mm).  
Note: An example of suggested formatting for the signage 
would be "ONE HOUR FIRE PARTITION."  
B. Change the exceptions to Section 705.2 of the IBC to 
read:  
Exceptions:  
1. Buildings on the same lot and considered as por tions of 
one building in accordance with Section 705.3 are not 
required to comply with this section.  
2. Decks and open porches of buildings of Groups R -3 and 
R-4.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1833 C. Add Exception 4 to Section 706.5.2 of the IBC to read:  
4. Decks and open porches of bui ldings in Groups R -3 and 
R-4.  
D. Change Section 709.5 of the IBC to read:  
709.5 Openings. Openings in a smoke barrier shall be 
protected in accordance with Section 716.  
Exceptions:  
1. In Group I -1 Condition 2, Group I -2, and ambulatory 
care facilities where doors are installed across corridors, 
a pair of opposite -swinging doors without a center 
mullion shall be installed having vision panels with fire -
protection -rated glazing materials in fire -protection -rated 
frames, the area of which shall not exceed that tested. 
The doors shall be close fitting within operational 
tolerances and shall not have undercuts in excess of 3/4 -
inch, louvers, or grilles. The doors shall have head and 
jamb stops, astragals, or rabbets at meeting edges and 
shall be automatic -closing by smoke detection in 
accordance with Section 716.5.9.3. Where permitted by 
the door manufacturer's listing, positive -latching devices 
are not required.  
2. In Group I -1 Condition 2, Group I -2, and ambulatory 
care facilities, horizontal sliding doors installed in 
accordance with Section 1008.1.4.3 and protected in 
accordance with Section 716.  
E. Delete Sections 713.14.1 and 713.14.1.1.  
F. Change Section 716.5.3.1 of the IBC to read:  
716.5.3.1 Smoke and draft control. Fire door assemblies 
located in sm oke barrier walls shall also meet the 
requirements for a smoke and draft control door assembly 
tested in accordance with UL 1784. The air leakage rate of 
the door assembly shall not exceed 3.0 cubic feet per 
minute per square foot (0.01524 m3/s ∙ m2) of do or opening 
at 0.10 inch (24.9 Pa) of water for both the ambient 
temperature and elevated temperature tests. Louvers shall 
be prohibited. Installation of smoke doors shall be in 
accordance with NFPA 105.  
E. Change Section 717.5.3 of the IBC to read:  
717.5 .3 Shaft enclosures. Shaft enclosures that are 
permitted to be penetrated by ducts and air transfer 
openings shall be protected with approved fire and smoke 
dampers installed in accordance with their listing.  
Exceptions:  
1. Fire and smoke dampers are not  required where steel 
exhaust subducts extend at least 22 inches (559 mm) 
vertically in exhaust shafts, provided there is a 
continuous airflow upward to the outside.  2. Fire dampers are not required where penetrations are 
tested in accordance with ASTM E1 19 as part of the fire 
resistance -rated assembly.  
3. Fire and smoke dampers are not required where ducts 
are used as part of an approved smoke control system in 
accordance with Section 909.  
4. Fire and smoke dampers are not required where the 
penetration s are in parking garage exhaust or supply 
shafts that are separated from other building shafts by not 
less than two -hour fire -resistance -rated construction.  
5. Smoke dampers are not required where the building is 
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system 
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.  
[ F. Add Section 717.6.2.2 to the IBC to read:  
717.6.2.2 Equipment shutdown. Where ceiling radiation 
damp ers are listed as static dampers, the HVAC equipment 
shall be effectively shut down to stop the airflow prior to 
the damper closing using one of the following methods:  
1. A duct detector installed in the return duct.  
2. An area smoke detector interlocked  with the HVAC 
equipment.  
3. A listed heat sensor installed in the return duct.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-235. Chapter 8 Interior finishes.  
Change Section 806.1.2  806.3  of the IBC to read:  
806.1.2  806.3  Combustible decorative materials. The 
permissible amount of dec orative materials meeting the 
flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701  In 
other than Group I -3, curtains, draperies, fabric hangings, 
and similar combustible decorative materials suspended 
from walls or ceilings shall comply with Section 806.4 an d 
shall not exceed 10% of the specific wall or ceiling area to 
which it is attached.  
Fixed or movable walls and partitions, paneling, wall pads, 
and crash pads applied structurally or for decoration, 
acoustical correction, surface insulation, or other pur poses 
shall be considered interior finish, shall comply with 
Section 803, and shall not be considered decorative 
materials or furnishings.  
Exceptions:  
1. In auditoriums or similar types of spaces in Group A, 
the permissible amount of curtains, draperies, fabric 
hangings, and similar combustible  decorative material 
meeting the flame propagation performance criteria of 
NFPA 701  materials suspended from walls or ceilings  
shall not exceed 75% of the aggregate wall area where 
the building is equipped throughout  with an automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 , Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1834  and where the material is installed in accordance with 
Section 803.11  803.13 of this code .  
2. In auditoriums or similar types of spaces in Group A, 
the permissible amount of decorat ive materials 
suspended from the ceiling, located no more than 12 
inches (305 mm) from the wall, not supported by the 
floor, and meeting the flame propagation performance 
criteria of NFPA 701, shall not exceed 75% of the 
aggregate wall area when the buildi ng is equipped 
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.  
3. In Group R -2 dormitories, within sleeping units and 
dwelling units, the permissible amount of curtains, 
draperies, fabric hangings, and similar decorativ e 
materials suspended from walls or ceiling shall not 
exceed 50% of the aggregate walls areas where the 
building is equipped throughout with an approved 
automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with 
Section 903.3.1.  
The 4. In Group B and M occupa ncies, the  amount of 
[ combustible  ] fabric partitions suspended from the 
ceiling and not supported by the floor in Groups B and M 
occupancies  shall comply with Section 806.4 and shall  
not be limited.  
13VAC5 -63-240. Chapter 9 Fire protection systems.  
A. Add the following to the list of terms in Section 902.1 of 
the IBC:  
Emergency communication equipment.  
Emergency public safety personnel.  
B. Change Section 903.2.1.2 of the IBC to read:  
903.2.1.2 Group A -2. An automatic sprinkler system shall 
be pro vided for fire areas containing  Group A -2 
occupancies and intervening floors of the building  where 
one of the following conditions exists:  
1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5m2);. 
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more in 
night  clubs or 300 or more in other Group A -2 
occupancies ; or. 
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of 
exit discharge serving such occupancies.  
4. The fire area contains a multitheater complex.  
C. Change Item 2 of Section 903.2.1.3 of the IBC to read:  
2. In Group A -3 occupancies other than places of religious 
worship, the fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more 
[ ; or. ]  D. Change Section 903.2.3 of the IBC to read:  
903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be 
provided for Group E occupancies as follows:  
1. Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 20,000 
square feet (1858 m2) in area.  
2. Throughout every portion of educational buildings 
below the lo west level of exit discharge serving that 
portion of the building.  
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system is not required 
in any area below the lowest level of exit discharge serving 
that area where every classroom throughout the building 
has at least o ne exterior exit door at ground level.  
E. Change  Add Exception 4 to  Section 903.2.6 to read:  
903.2.6 Group I. An automatic sprinkler system shall be 
provided throughout all buildings with a Group I fire area.  
Exceptions:  
1. An automatic sprinkler system i nstalled in accordance 
with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in Group I -1 
Condition 1 facilities.  
2. An automatic sprinkler system is not required where 
Group I -4 day care facilities are at the level of exit 
discharge and where every room where care is  provided 
has at least one exit door.  
3. In buildings where Group I -4 day care is provided on 
levels other than the level of exit discharge, an automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall 
be installed on the entire floor where car e is provided and 
all floors between the level of care and the level of exit 
discharge and all floors below the level of exit discharge, 
other than areas classified as an open parking garage.  
4. An automatic sprinkler system shall not be required for 
open -sided or chain link -sided buildings and overhangs 
over exercise yards 200 square feet (18.58 m2) or less in 
Group I -3 facilities, provided such buildings and overhangs 
are of noncombustible construction.  
F. Change Section 903.2.7 of the IBC to read:  
903.2 .7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be 
provided throughout buildings containing a Group M 
occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:  
1. A Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 
m2).  
2. A Group M fire area is located m ore than three stories 
above grade plane.  
3. The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all 
floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square 
feet (2230 m2).  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1835 G. Change Sections  Section  903.2.8 , 903.2.8.1, and 
908.2.8.2  of the IBC to read:  
903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed 
in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided 
throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area, except 
for Group R -2 occupancies listed in the exceptions to this 
section when the necessary water pr essure or volume, or 
both, for the system is not available:  
Exceptions:  
1. Group R -2 occupancies that do not exceed two stories, 
including basements that are not considered as a story 
above grade, and with a maximum of 16 dwelling units per 
fire area. Ea ch dwelling unit shall have at least one door 
opening to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the 
exits required to serve that dwelling unit.  
2. Group R -2 occupancies where all dwelling units are not 
more than two stories above the lowest level of exit 
discharge and not more than one story below the highest 
level of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling unit 
and a two -hour fire barrier is provided between each pair 
of dwelling units. Each bedroom of a dormitory or 
boarding house shall be c onsidered a dwelling unit under 
this exception.  
903.2.8.1 Group R -3. An automatic sprinkler system 
installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be 
permitted in Group R -3. 
903.2.8.2 Group R -4 Condition 1. An automatic sprinkler 
system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall 
be permitted in Group R -4 Condition 1.  
H. Add Sections 903.2.8.3, 903.2.8.3.1, 903.2.8.3.2, and 
903.2.8.4 to the IBC to read:  
903.2.8.3 Group R -4 Condition 2. An automatic sprinkler 
system installed in accordance wi th Section 903.3.1.2 shall 
be permitted in Group R -4 Condition 2. Attics shall be 
protected in accordance with Section 903.2.8.3.1 or 
903.2.8.3.2.  
903.2.8.3.1 Attics used for living purposes, storage, or fuel 
fired equipment. Attics used for living purpos es, storage, 
or fuel fired equipment shall be protected throughout with 
automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with 
Section 903.3.1.2.  
903.2.8.3.2 Attics not used for living purposes, storage, or 
fuel fired equipment. Attics not used for living purposes, 
storage, or fuel fired equipment shall be protected in 
accordance with one of the following:  
1. Attics protected throughout by a heat d etector system 
arranged to activate the building fire alarm system in 
accordance with Section 907.2.10.  
2. Attics constructed of noncombustible materials.  3. Attics constructed of fire -retardant -treated wood framing 
complying with Section 2303.2.  
4. The  automatic fire sprinkler system shall be extended to 
provide protection throughout the attic space.  
903.2.8.4 Care facilities. An automatic sprinkler system 
installed in accordance with 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in 
care facilities with 5 or fewer indi viduals in a single -family 
dwelling.  
I. Add Section 903.3.1.2.2 to the IBC to read:  
903.3.1.2.2 Attics. Sprinkler protection shall be provided 
for attics in buildings of Type III, IV or V construction in 
Group R -2 occupancies that are designed or develop ed and 
marketed to senior citizens 55 years of age or older and in 
Group I -1 occupancies in accordance with Section 7.2 of 
NFPA 13R.  
J. Change Section 903.3.1.3 of the IBC to read:  
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Automatic 
sprinkler systems installe d in one -family and two -family 
dwellings, Group R -3, Group R -4 Condition 1 and 
townhouses shall be permitted to be installed throughout in 
accordance with NFPA 13D.  
[ I. Add Section 903.3.5.1.1 to the IBC and change Section 
903.3.5.2 of the IBC to Section  903.3.5.1.2; both to read as 
follows:  
903.3.5.1.1 Limited area sprinkler systems. Limited area 
sprinkler systems serving fewer than 20 sprinklers on any 
single connection are permitted to be connected to the 
domestic service where a wet automatic standpi pe is not 
available. Limited area sprinkler systems connected to 
domestic water supplies shall comply with each of the 
following requirements:  
1. Valves shall not be installed between the domestic water 
riser control valve and the sprinklers.  
Exception: An approved indicating control valve 
supervised in the open position in accordance with Section 
903.4.  
2. The domestic service shall be capable of supplying the 
simultaneous domestic demand and the sprinkler demand 
required to be hydraulically calculated by NFPA 13, NFPA 
13R, or NFPA 13D.  
903.3.5.1.2 Residential combination services. A single 
combination water supply shall be allowed provided that 
the domestic demand is added to the sprinkler demand as 
required by NFPA 13R.   
J. Delete Section 903.3.5.2 of  the IBC and Sections 903.3.8 
through 903.3.8.5 of the IBC.   Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1836  K. I. ] Change Section 903.4.2 of the IBC to read:  
903.4.2 Alarms. Approved audible devices shall be 
connected to every automatic sprinkler system. Such 
sprinkler water -flow alarm devices shall be activated by 
water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of 
the smallest orifice size installed in  the system. Alarm 
devices shall be provided on the exterior of the building in 
an approved location. Where a fire alarm system is 
installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall 
actuate the building fire alarm system. Group R -2 
occupancies th at contain 16 or more dwelling units or 
sleeping units, any dwelling unit or sleeping unit two or 
more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge, or 
any dwelling unit or sleeping unit more than one story 
below the highest level of exit discharge of exits serving 
the dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall provide a manual 
fire alarm box at an approved location to activate the 
suppression system alarm.  
[ L. J. Add an exception to  Change  ] Section [  905.2  
905.3.1  ] of the IBC to read:  
[ Exception: The r esidual pressure of 100 psi for 2 -1/2 inch 
hose connection and 65 psi for 1 -1/2 inch hose connection is 
not required in buildings equipped throughout with an 
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and where the highest  floor level is not 
more than 150 feet above the lowest level of fire department 
vehicle access.   
905.3.1 Height. Class III standpipe systems shall be 
installed throughout buildings where the floor level of the 
highest story is located more than 30 feet (9 144 mm) above 
the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, or where 
the floor level of the lowest story is located more than 30 
feet (9144 mm) below the highest level of fire department 
vehicle access.  
Exceptions:  
1. Class I standpipes are allowed  in buildings equipped 
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.  
2. Class I manual wet standpipes are allowed in buildings 
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system 
in accordance with Sec tion 903.3.1 or Section 903.3.2 
and where the highest floor is located not more than 150 
feet (45,720 mm) above the lowest level of fire 
department vehicle access.  
3. Class I manual standpipes are allowed in open parking 
garages where the highest floor is  located not more than 
150 feet (45,720 mm) above the lowest level of fire 
department vehicle access.  
4. Class I manual dry standpipes are allowed in open 
parking garages that are subject to freezing temperatures, 
provided that the hose connections are lo cated as required for Class II standpipes in accordance with 
Section 905.5.  
5. Class I standpipes are allowed in basements equipped 
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.  
6. In determining the lowest level of fire department 
vehicle access, it shall not be required to consider either 
of the following:  
6.1. Recessed loading docks for four vehicles or less.  
6.2. Conditions where topography makes access from the 
fire departm ent vehicle to the building impractical or 
impossible.   
M. K. ] Change Item 1 of Section 906.1 of the IBC to read:  
1. In Groups A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R -1, R -4, and S 
occupancies.  
Exceptions:  
1. In Groups A, B, and E occupancies equipped 
throughout with q uick response sprinklers, portable fire 
extinguishers shall be required only in locations specified 
in Items 2 through 6.  
2. In Group I -3 occupancies, portable fire extinguishers 
shall be permitted to be located at staff locations and the 
access to such e xtinguishers shall be permitted to be 
locked.  
[ N. L. ] Change Section 907.2.1.1 of the IBC to read:  
907.2.1.1 System initiation in Group A occupancies with 
an occupant load of 1,000 or more and in certain night 
clubs. Activation of the fire alarm in Gro up A occupancies 
with an occupant load of 1,000 or more and in night clubs 
with an occupant load of 300 or more shall initiate a signal 
using an emergency voice and alarm communications 
system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.  
Exception: Where approve d, the prerecorded 
announcement is allowed to be manually deactivated for a 
period of time, not to exceed three minutes, for the sole 
purpose of allowing a live voice announcement from an 
approved, constantly attended location.  
[ M. O. ] Add Section 907.2 .2.2 to the IBC to read:  
907.2.2.2 Higher education laboratories. An automatic fire 
alarm and detection system shall be provided in Group B 
occupancies where an increase in hazardous materials is 
permitted in accordance with Section 430.  
O. [ N. P. ] Chang e Section 907.2.3 of the IBC to read:  
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system that activates 
the occupant notification system meeting the requirements 
of Section 907.5 and installed in accordance with Section 
907.6 shall be installed in Group E occupa ncies. When 
automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1837 installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to 
the building fire alarm system.  
Exceptions:  
1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in Group E 
occupancies with an occupant lo ad of 50 or less.  
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required in Group E 
occupancies where all of the following apply:  
2.1. Interior corridors are protected by smoke detectors.  
2.2. Auditoriums, cafeterias, gymnasiums, and similar 
areas are protected by  heat detectors or other approved 
detection devices.  
2.3. Shops and laboratories involving dusts or vapors are 
protected by heat detectors or other approved detection 
devices.  
3. Manual fire alarm boxes shall not be required in Group 
E occupancies where the building is equipped throughout 
with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the occupant 
notification system will activate on sprinkler water flow 
and manual activation is provided from a normally 
occupie d location.  
P. Change Section 907.2.6.1 of the IBC to read:  
907.2.6.1 Group I -1. In Group I -1 occupancies, an 
automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in 
corridors, waiting areas open to corridors, and habitable 
spaces other than sleeping unit s and kitchens. The system 
shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.5.  
Exceptions:  
1. For Group I -1 Condition 1, smoke detection in 
habitable spaces is not required where the facility is 
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system 
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.  
2. Smoke detection is not required for exterior balconies.  
[ Q. O. ] Add an exception to Section 907.5.2.1.1 of the IBC 
to read:  
Exception: Sound pressure levels in Group I -3 occupancies 
shall be permitted to be limited to only the notification of 
occupants in the affected smoke compartment.  
R. Change Sections 908.7 and 908.7.1 of the IBC and add 
Sections 908.7.2 and 908.7.3 to the  IBC to read:  
908.7 Carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide alarms 
shall comply with this section.  
908.7.1 Group I or R. Group I or R occupancies located in 
a building containing a fuel -burning appliance or in a 
building which has an attached garage shal l be equipped 
with single -station carbon monoxide alarms. The carbon 
monoxide alarms shall be listed as complying with UL 2034 and be installed and maintained in accordance with 
NFPA 720 and the manufacturer's instructions. An open 
parking garage, as defin ed in Chapter 2, or an enclosed 
parking garage ventilated in accordance with Section 404 
of the IMC shall not be considered an attached garage.  
Exception: Sleeping units or dwelling units which do not 
themselves contain a fuel -burning appliance or have an  
attached garage, but which are located in a building with a 
fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage, need not be 
equipped with single -station carbon monoxide alarms 
provided that:  
1. The sleeping unit or dwelling unit is located more than 
one story above or below any story which contains a 
fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage;  
2. The sleeping unit or dwelling unit is not connected by 
duct work or ventilation shafts to any room containing a 
fuel-burning appliance or to an attached garage; and   
3. The building is equipped with a common area carbon 
monoxide alarm system.  
908.7.2 Group E. Classrooms in E occupancies located in a 
building containing a fuel -burning appliance or in a 
building which has an attached garage or small engine or 
vehicle shop shall be equipped with single -station carbon 
monoxide alarms. The carbon monoxide alarms shall be 
listed as complying with UL 2034 and be installed and 
maintained in accordance with NFPA 720 and the 
manufacturer's instructions. An open parking garage,  as 
defined in Chapter 2, or an enclosed parking garage 
ventilated in accordance with Section 404 of the IMC shall 
not be considered an attached garage.  
Exception: Classrooms which do not themselves contain a 
fuel-burning appliance or have an attached gar age, but 
which are located in a building with a fuel -burning 
appliance or an attached garage, need not be equipped with 
single -station carbon monoxide alarms provided that:  
1. The classroom is located more than 100 feet from the 
fuel burning appliance or attached garage or located more 
than one story above or below any story which contains a 
fuel-burning appliance or attached garage; and  
2. The classroom is not connected by duct work or 
ventilation shafts to any room containing a fuel -burning 
appliance.  
908.7.3 Carbon monoxide detection systems. Carbon 
monoxide detection systems, which include carbon 
monoxide detectors and audible notification appliances, 
installed and maintained in accordance with this section for 
carbon monoxide alarms and NFPA 720 shal l be permitted. 
The carbon monoxide detectors shall be listed as 
complying with UL 2075.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1838  S. [ P. R. ] Change Section 909.6 of the IBC to read:  
909.6 Pressurization method. When approved by the 
building official, the means of controlling smoke shall be 
permitted by pressure differences across smoke barriers. 
Maintenance of a tenable environment is not required in 
the smoke -control zone of fire origin.  
T. [ Q. S. ] Change Section 911.1.3 of the IBC to read:  
911.1.3 Size. The fire command center shall be a  minimum 
of 96 square feet (9 m2) in area with a minimum dimension 
of eight feet (2438 mm).  
Exception: Where it is determined by the building official, 
after consultation with the fire chief, that specific building 
characteristics require a larger fire co mmand center, the 
building official may increase the minimum required size 
of the fire command center up to 200 square feet (19 m2) in 
area with a minimum dimension of up to 10 feet (3048 
mm).  
[ T. Change Sections 912.4 and 912.4.2 of the IBC to read:   
912.4 Access. Immediate access to fire department 
connections shall be provided without obstruction by 
fences, bushes, trees, walls or any other fixed or moveable 
object. Access to fire department connections shall be 
approved by the fire chief.  
Exception: Fences, where provided with an access gate 
equipped with a sign complying with the legend 
requirements of this section and a means of emergency 
operation. The gate and the means of emergency operation 
shall be approved by the fire chief.  
912.4.2 Clear spa ce around connections. A working space 
of not less than 36 inches (762 mm) in width, 36 inches 
(914 mm) in depth and 78 inches (1981 mm) in height 
shall be provided in front of and to the sides of wall -
mounted fire department connections and around the 
circumference of free -standing fire department 
connections, except as otherwise required or approved by 
the fire chief.   
R. U. ] Replace Section 915 of the IBC with the following:  
915.1 Carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide alarms 
shall comply with this se ction.  
915.2 Group I or R. Group I or R occupancies located in a 
building containing a fuel -burning appliance or in a 
building that has an attached garage shall be equipped with 
single -station carbon monoxide alarms. The carbon 
monoxide alarms shall be li sted as complying with UL 
2034 and be installed and maintained in accordance with 
NFPA 720 and the manufacturer's instructions. An open 
parking garage, as defined in Chapter 2, or an enclosed 
parking garage ventilated in accordance with Section 404 
of the IMC shall not be considered an attached garage.  Exception: Sleeping units or dwelling units that do not 
themselves contain a fuel -burning appliance or have an 
attached garage but that are located in a building with a 
fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage, need not be 
equipped with single -station carbon monoxide alarms 
provided that:  
1. The sleeping unit or dwelling unit is located more than 
one story above or below any story that contains a fuel -
burning appliance or an attached garage;  
2. The sleeping unit or dwelling unit is not connected by 
duct work or ventilation shafts to any room containing a 
fuel-burning appliance or to an attached garage; and  
3. The building is equipped with a common area carbon 
monoxide alarm system.  
915.3 Gro up E. Classrooms in E occupancies located in a 
building containing a fuel -burning appliance or in a 
building that has an attached garage or small engine or 
vehicle shop shall be equipped with single -station carbon 
monoxide alarms. The carbon monoxide alarm s shall be 
listed as complying with UL 2034 and be installed and 
maintained in accordance with NFPA 720 and the 
manufacturer's instructions. An open parking garage, as 
defined in Chapter 2, or an enclosed parking garage 
ventilated in accordance with Sectio n 404 of the IMC shall 
not be considered an attached garage.  
Exception: Classrooms that do not themselves contain a 
fuel-burning appliance or have an attached garage but are 
located in a building with a fuel -burning appliance or an 
attached garage, need n ot be equipped with single -station 
carbon monoxide alarms provided that:  
1. The classroom is located more than 100 feet from the 
fuel burning appliance or attached garage or located more 
than one story above or below any story which contains a 
fuel-burnin g appliance or attached garage; and  
2. The classroom is not connected by duct work or 
ventilation shafts to any room containing a fuel -burning 
appliance.  
915.4 Carbon monoxide detection systems. Carbon 
monoxide detection systems, which include carbon 
monoxide detectors and audible notification appliances, 
installed and maintained in accordance with this section for 
carbon monoxide alarms and NFPA 720 shall be permitted. 
The carbon monoxide detectors shall be listed as 
complying with UL 2075.  
U. [ S. V. ] Change the title of IBC Section 915 916 to read:  
In-Building Emergency Communications Coverage.  
V. [ T. W. ] Change Section 915.1  916.1  of the IBC to read:  
915.1  916.1  General. For localities utilizing public safety 
wireless communications, dedicated i nfrastructure to Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1839 accommodate and perpetuate continuous in -building 
emergency communication equipment to allow emergency 
public safety personnel to send and receive emergency 
communications shall be provided in new buildings and 
structures in accordance wit h this section.  
Exceptions:  
1. Buildings of Use Groups A -5, I-4, within dwelling 
units of R -2, R-3, R-4, R-5, and U.  
2. Buildings of Types IV and V construction without 
basements, that are not considered unlimited area 
buildings in accordance with Secti on 507.  
3. Above grade single story buildings of less than 20,000 
square feet.  
4. Buildings or leased spaces occupied by federal, state, 
or local governments, or the contractors thereof, with 
security requirements where the building official has 
approved  an alternative method to provide emergency 
communication equipment for emergency public safety 
personnel.  
5. Where the owner provides technological 
documentation from a qualified individual that the 
structure or portion thereof does not impede emergency 
communication signals.  
W. [ U. X. ] Add Sections 915.1.1, 915.1.2  916.1.1, 916.1.2,  
and 915.1.3  916.1.3  to the IBC to read:  
915.1.1  916.1.1  Installation. The building owner shall 
install radiating cable, such as coaxial cable or equivalent. 
The radiating  cable shall be installed in dedicated conduits, 
raceways, plenums, attics, or roofs, compatible for these 
specific installations as well as other applicable provisions 
of this code. The locality shall be responsible for the 
installation of any additional communication equipment 
required for the operation of the system.  
915.1.2  916.1.2  Operations. The locality will assume all 
responsibilities for the operation and maintenance of the 
emergency communication equipment. The building owner 
shall provide suffic ient operational space within the 
building to allow the locality access to and the ability to 
operate in -building emergency communication equipment.  
915.1.3  916.1.3  Inspection. In accordance with Section 
113.3, all installations shall be inspected prior t o 
concealment.  
X. [ V. Y. ] Add Section 915.2  916.2  to the IBC to read:  
915.2  916.2  Acceptance test. Upon completion of 
installation, after providing reasonable notice to the owner 
or their representative, emergency public safety personnel 
shall have the right during normal business hours, or other 
mutually agreed upon time, to enter ont o the property to 
conduct field tests to verify that the required level of radio coverage is present at no cost to the owner. Any noted 
deficiencies in the installation of the radiating cable or 
operational space shall be provided in an inspection report 
to the owner or the owner's representative.  
13VAC5 -63-245. Chapter 10 Means of egress.  
A. Delete Section 1001.4 of the IBC.  
B. Change Section 1004.3 of the IBC to read:  
1004.3 Posting of occupant load. Every room or space that 
is an assembly occupancy and where the occupant load of 
that room or space is 50 or more shall have the occupant 
load of the room or space posted in a conspicuous place, 
near the main exit or exit a ccess doorway from the room or 
space. Posted signs shall be of an approved legible 
permanent design and shall be maintained by the owner or 
the owner's  authorized agent.  
C. Change the exception to  Exception 1 of  Section 1005.3.1 
of the IBC to read:  
Excep tion:  
1. For other than Groups H and I -2 occupancies, the 
capacity, in inches (mm), of means of egress stairways 
shall be calculated by multiplying the occupant load 
served by such stairway by a means of egress capacity 
factor of 0.2 inch (5.1 mm) per occ upant in buildings 
equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed in 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.  
D. Change the exception to  Exception 1 of  Section 1005.3.2 
of the IBC to read:  
Exception:   
1. For other than Groups H and I -2 occu pancies, the 
capacity, in inches (mm), of means of egress components 
other than stairways shall be calculated by multiplying 
the occupant load served by such component by a means 
of egress capacity factor of 0.15 inch (3.8 mm) per 
occupant in buildings equ ipped with an automatic 
sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.  
E. Change Exception 1 of Section 1006.2.1 of the IBC to 
read:  
1. In Group R -2 and R -3 occupancies, one means of 
egress is permitted within and from indiv idual dwelling 
units with a maximum occupant load of 20 where the 
dwelling unit is equipped throughout with an automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 
903.3.1.2 and the common path of egress travel does not 
exceed 125 feet (38 10 0 mm). This exception shall also 
apply to Group R -2 occupancies where Section 903.2.8, 
Exception 1 or 2 is applicable.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1840  F. Change the number "49" to "50" in the "Maximum 
Occupant Load of Space" column in the "Ac, E, M," "B," "F," 
and "U" rows of Table 1006. 2.1 of the IBC.  
G. Change the number "49" to "50" in the "Maximum 
Occupant Load per Story" column of the "A, Bb, E, F, M, U" 
row of Table 1006.3.2(2).  
H. Change Section 1007.6.2  1009.6.4  of the IBC to read:  
1007.6.2  1009.6.4  Separation. Each area of refug e shall be 
separated from the remainder of the story by a smoke 
barrier complying with Section 709 or a horizontal exit 
complying with Section 1025  1026 . Each area of refuge 
shall be designed to minimize the intrusion of smoke.  
Exceptions:  
1. Areas of re fuge located within an exit enclosure for 
interior exit stairways complying with Section 1023 .  
2. Areas of refuge in outdoor facilities where exit access 
is essentially open to the outside.  
3. Areas of refuge where the area of refuge and areas 
served by t he area of refuge are equipped throughout 
with an automatic sprinkler system installed in 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.  
F. I. Change Item 2 of Section 1008.1.9.3  1010.1.9.3  of the 
IBC to read:  
2. In buildings in occupancy Groups B, F, M  and S, the 
main exterior door or doors are permitted to be equipped 
with key -operated locking devices from the egress side 
provided:  
2.1. The locking device is readily distinguishable as 
locked.  
2.2. A readily visible durable sign is posted on the egres s 
side on or adjacent to the door stating: THIS DOOR TO 
REMAIN UNLOCKED WHEN BUILDING  THIS 
SPACE  IS OCCUPIED. The sign shall be in letters one 
inch (25 mm) high on a contrasting background.  
2.3. The use of the key -operated locking device is 
revokable by t he building official for due cause.  
G. J. Delete Section 1008.1.9.6  1010.1.9.6  of the IBC.  
H. Change Sections 1008.1.9.7 and 1008.1.9.8  K. Add an 
exception to Section 1010.1.9.7  of the IBC to read:  
1008.1.9.7 Delayed egress locks. In other than Groups A , 
E, and H, approved, listed, delayed egress locks shall be 
permitted to be installed on doors in buildings which are 
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or an approved 
automatic smoke or heat detecti on system installed in 
accordance with Section 907, provided that the doors 
unlock in accordance with Items 1 through 6 below. A 
building occupant shall not be required to pass through more than one door equipped with a delayed egress lock 
before entering an exit.  
1. The doors unlock upon actuation of the automatic 
sprinkler system or automatic fire detection system.  
2. The doors unlock upon loss of power controlling the 
lock or lock mechanism.  
3. The door locks shall have the capability of being 
unlocked by a signal from the fire command center.  
4. The initiation of an irreversible process which will 
release the latch in not more than 15 seconds when a 
force of not more than 15 pounds (67 N) is applied for 1 
second to the release device. Initiation of the irreversible 
process shall activate an aud ible signal in the vicinity of 
the door. Once the door lock has been released by the 
application of force to the releasing device, relocking 
shall be by manual means only.  
Exception: Where approved, a delay of not more than 30 
seconds is permitted.  
5. A sign shall be provided on the door located above and 
within 12 inches (305 mm) of the release device reading: 
PUSH UNTIL ALARM SOUNDS. DOOR CAN BE 
OPENED IN 15 SECONDS.  
Exception: Where approved, such sign shall read: PUSH 
UNTIL ALARM SOUNDS. DOOR CAN BE OPENED 
IN 30 SECONDS.  
6. Emergency lighting shall be provided at the door.  
Exception: Approved, listed, delayed egress locks shall be 
permitted to be installed on doors serving Group A -3 
airport facilities, provided they are installed in accordance 
with this section.  
1008.1.9.8 Sensor release of electronically locked egress 
doors. The electric locks on sensor released doors located 
in a means of egress in buildings with an occupancy in 
Group A, B, E, I -1, I-2, I-4, M, R -1, or R -2 and entrance 
doors to te nant spaces in occupancies in Group A, B, E, I -
1, I-2, I-4, M, R -1, or R -2 are permitted where installed 
and operated in accordance with all of the following 
criteria:  
1. The sensor shall be installed on the egress side 
arranged to detect an occupant appr oaching the doors. 
The doors shall be arranged to unlock by a signal from or 
loss of power to the sensor.  
2. Loss of power to the lock or locking system shall 
automatically unlock the doors.  
3. The doors shall be arranged to unlock from a manual 
unlockin g device located 40 inches to 48 inches (1016 
mm to 1219 mm) vertically above the floor and within 
five feet (1524 mm) of the secured doors. Ready access 
shall be provided to the manual unlocking device and the Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1841 device shall be clearly identified by a sign that reads 
"PUSH TO EXIT." When operated, the manual 
unlocking device shall result in direct interruption of 
power to the lock –independent of locking system 
electronics –and the doors shall remain unlocked for not 
less than 30 seconds.  
4. Activation of the  building fire alarm system, if 
provided, shall automatically unlock the doors, and the 
doors shall remain unlocked until the fire alarm system 
has been reset.  
5. Activation of the building automatic sprinkler or fire 
detection system, if provided, shall automatically unlock 
the doors. The doors shall remain unlocked until the fire 
alarm system has been reset.  
6. The door locking system units shall be listed in 
accordance with UL 294.  
L. Change Section 1010.1.6 of the IBC to read:  
1010.1.6 Landings at do ors. Landings shall have a width 
not less than the width of the stairway or the door, 
whichever is greater. Doors in the fully open position shall 
not reduce a required dimension by more than 7 inches 
(178 mm). Where a landing serves an occupant load of 50  
or more, other doors, gates, or turnstiles in any position 
shall not reduce the landing to less than one -half its 
required width nor prevent a door, gate, or turnstile from 
opening to less than one -half of the required landing width. 
Landings shall have a  length measured in the direction of 
travel of not less than 44 inches (1118 mm).  
Exception: Landing length in the direction of travel in 
Groups R -3 and U and within individual units of Group R -
2 need not exceed 36 inches (914 mm).  
I. Delete the exception in M. Change  Section 1008.1.10  
1010.1.10  of the IBC . to read:  
1010.1.10 Panic and fire exit hardware. Doors serving a 
Group H occupancy and doors serving rooms or spaces 
with an occupant load of 50 or more in a Group A or E 
occupancy shall not be provided with a latch or lock other 
than panic hardware or fire exit hardware.  
Exception: Doors serving a Group A or E occupancy shall 
be permitted to be electromagnetically locked in 
accordance with Section 1010.1.9.9.  
J. N. Add Section 1008.1.11  1010.1.11  to the IBC to read:  
1008.1.11  1010.1.11  Locking certain residential sliding 
doors. In dwelling units of Group R -2 buildings, exterior 
sliding doors which are one story or less above grade, or 
shared by two dwelling units, or are otherwise accessible 
from the out side, shall be equipped with locks. The 
mounting screws for the lock case shall be inaccessible 
from the outside. The lock bolt shall engage the strike in a manner that will prevent it from being disengaged by 
movement of the door.  
Exception: Exterior sli ding doors which are equipped with 
removable metal pins or charlie bars.  
K. O. Add Section 1008.1.12  1010.1.12  to the IBC to read:  
1008.1.12  1010.1.12  Door viewers in certain residential 
buildings. Entrance doors to dwelling units of Group R -2 
buildings shall be equipped with door viewers with a field 
of vision of not less than 180 degrees.  
Exception: Entrance doors having a vision panel or side 
vision panels.  
L. P. Change Exception 5 3 of Section 1009.7.2  1011.5.2  of 
the IBC to read:  
5. 3. In Group R -3 occupancies; within dwelling units in 
Group R -2 occupancies; and in Group U occupancies that 
are accessory to a Group R -3 occupancy or accessory to 
individual dwelling units in Group R -2 occupancies; the 
maximum riser height shall be 8.25 inches (210 mm) ; the 
minimum tread depth shall be 9 inches (229 mm); the 
minimum winder tread depth at the walk line shall be 10 
inches (254 mm); and the minimum winder tread depth 
shall be 6 inches (152 mm). A nosing not less than 0.75 
inch (19.1 mm) but not more than 1 .25 inches (32 mm) 
shall be provided on stairways with solid risers where the 
tread depth is less than 11 inches (279 mm).  
Q. Change Section 1011.6 of the IBC to read:  
1011.6 Stairway landings. There shall be a floor or landing 
at the top and bottom of each stairway. The width of 
landings shall be not less than the width of stairways 
served. Every landing shall have a minimum width 
measured perpendicular to the direction of travel equal to 
the width of the stairway. Where the stairway has a straight 
run the depth need not exceed 48 inches (1219 mm). Doors 
opening onto a landing shall not reduce the landing to less 
than one -half the required width. When fully open, the 
door shall not project more than 7 inches (178 mm) into a 
landing. Where wheelchair spac es are required on the 
stairway landing in accordance with Section 1009.6.3, the 
wheelchair space shall not be located in the required width 
of the landing and doors shall not swing over the 
wheelchair spaces.  
Exceptions:  
1. Where stairways connect stepped  aisles to cross aisles 
or concourses, stairway landings are not required at the 
transition between stairways and stepped aisles 
constructed in accordance with Section 1029.  
2. A floor or landing is not required at the top of an 
interior flight of exit acc ess stairs within individual 
dwelling units and sleeping units of Group R -2 
occupancies and dwelling units of Group R -3 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1842  occupancies, including stairs in an enclosed private 
garage serving only an individual dwelling unit, provided 
that a door does not swin g over the stairs.  
M. R. [ Change Section 1011.16 of the IBC to read:  
1011.16 Ladders. Permanent ladders shall not serve as a 
part of the means of egress from occupied spaces within a 
building. Permanent ladders shall be permitted to provide 
access to the following areas:  
1. Spaces frequented only by personnel for maintenance, 
repair, or monitoring of equipment.  
2. Nonoccupiable spaces accessed only by catwalks, 
crawl spaces, freight elevators, or very narrow 
passageways.  
3. Raised areas used primarily for purposes of security, 
life safety, or fire safety including observation galleries, 
prison guard towers, fire towers, or lifeguard stands.  
4. Elevated levels in Group U not open to the general 
public.  
5. Nonoccupied roofs that are not required to have 
stairway access in accordance with Section 1011.12.1.  
S. ] Change Section 1013.8  1015.8  of the IBC to read:  
1013.8  1015.8  Window sills openings . In Occupancy 
Groups  Windows in Group  R-2 and R -3, one -family and 
two-family and multiple -family dwellings,  building s 
including dwelling units  where the opening  top of the sill 
portion  of an operable window opening  is located less than 
18 inches (457 mm) above the finished floor and  more than 
72 inches (1829 mm) above the finished grade or other 
surface below , the lowes t part of the clear opening of the 
window shall be at a height not less than 18 inches (457 
mm) above the finished floor surface of the room in which 
the window is located. Operable sections of windows shall 
not permit openings that allow passage of a 4 -inch-
diameter (102 mm) sphere where such openings are located 
within 18 inches (457 mm) of the finished floor.  on the 
exterior of the building shall comply with one of the 
following:   
Exceptions:  
1. Operable windows where the top of the  sill portion  of 
the opening is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) 
above the finished grade or other surface below and that 
are provided with window fall prevention devices that 
comply with ASTM F 2006.  
2. Windows whose  Operable windows where the  
openings will not allow a 4-inch diameter (102 mm) 
sphere to pass through the opening when the window is 
in its largest opened position.  3. Openings that  Operable windows where the openings  
are provided with window fall prevention devices that 
comply with ASTM F 2090.  
4. Windows  Operable windows  that are provided with 
window opening control devices that comply with 
Section 1013.8.1  1015.8.1 .  
N. [ S. T. ] Add Exception 3 to Item 4 5 of Section 1014.2  
1016.2  of the IBC to read:  
3. A maximum of one exit access is permitted to pass 
through kitchens, store rooms, closets or spaces used for 
similar purposes provided such a space is not the only 
means of exit access.  
O. Change Exception 1 in Item 1 of Section 1015.1 of the 
IBC to read:  
1. In Groups R -2 and R -3 occupancies, one means of 
egress is permitted within and from individual dwelling 
units with a maximum occupant load of 20 where the 
dwelling unit is equipped throughout with an automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section  903.3.1.1 or 
903.3.1.2. This exception shall also apply to Group R -2 
occupancies where Section 903.2.8, Exception 1 or 2 is 
applicable.  
P. Change Table 1015.1 of the IBC to read:  
Table 1015.1  
Spaces With One Exit or Exit Access Doorway  
Occupancy  Maximum Occupant Load  
A, B, E, F, M, U  50 
H-1, H-2, H-3 3 
H-4, H-5, I-1, I-3, I-4, 
R 10 
S 29 
Q. Change Exception 2 of Section 1015.2.1 of the IBC to 
read:  
2. Where a building is equipped throughout with an 
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the separation distance of the exit 
doors or exit access doorways shall not be less than one -
fourth of the length of the maximu m overall diagonal 
dimension of the area served.  
R. Add Section 1016.2.2 to the IBC to read:  
1016.2.2 Group F -1 and S -1 increase. The maximum exit 
access travel distance shall be 400 feet (122 m) in Group 
F-1 or S -1 occupancies where all of the following  are met:  
1. The portion of the building classified as Group F -1 or 
S-1 is limited to one story in height;  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1843 2. The minimum height from the finished floor to the 
bottom of the ceiling or roof slab or deck is 24 feet (7315 
mm); and  
3. The building is equip ped throughout with an automatic 
fire sprinkler system in accordance with Section 
903.3.1.1.  
S. Add the following text to footnote "a" of Table 1016.2 of 
the IBC to read:  
Section 1016.2.2: For increase distance limitation in Group 
F-1 and Group S -1.  
T. Change Exception 2 of Section 1018.1 of the IBC to read:  
2. A fire -resistance rating is not required for corridors 
contained within a dwelling or sleeping unit in an 
occupancy in Group I -1 and Group R.  
[ U. T. ] Change Table 1018.1  1020.1  of the IBC to read:  
Table 1018.1  1020.1  
Corridor Fire -Resistance Rating  
Occupancy  Occupant 
Load 
Served By 
Corridor  Required Fire -
Resistance Rating 
(hours)  
Without 
sprinkler 
system  With 
sprinkler 
systemb 
H-1, H-2, 
H-3 All Not 
Permitted  1 
H-4, H-5 Greater 
than 30  Not 
Permitted  1 
A, B, E, F, 
M, S, U  Greater 
than 30  1 0 
R Greater 
than 10  1 0.5 
I-2a, I-4 All Not 
Permitted  0 
I-1, I-3 All Not 
Permitted  0 
a. For requirements for occupancies in Group I -2, see 
Sections 407.2 and 407.3.  
b. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 
or 903.3.1.2 where allowed.  [ V. U. ] Add an additional row to Table 1018.2  1020.2  of 
the IBC to read:  
Occupancy  Width 
(minimum)  
In corridors of Group I -2 assisted 
living facilities licensed by the 
Virginia Department of Social 
Services serving areas with 
wheelchair, walker, and gurney 
traffic where residents are 
capable of self -preservation or 
where resident rooms have a 
means of egress door leading 
directl y to the outside.  44 inches  
W. Change the first row in Table 1021.2(2) to read:  
Story  Occupancy  Maximum 
Occupants 
per Story  Maximum 
Exit 
Access 
Travel 
Distance  
First 
story or 
basement  A, Bb, E, 
Fb, M, U, 
Sb 50 
occupants  75 feet  
[ W. Change Section 1023.5 of the IBC to read:  
1023.5 Penetrations. Penetrations into or through interior 
exit stairways and ramps are prohibited except for 
equipment and ductwork necessary for independent 
ventilation or pressurization, sprinkler piping, standpipes, 
electrica l raceway for fire department communication 
systems, and electrical raceway serving the interior exit 
stairway and ramp and terminating at a steel box not 
exceeding 16 square inches (0.010 m2). Such penetrations 
shall be protected in accordance with Sectio n 714. There 
shall not be penetrations or communication openings, 
whether protected or not, between adjacent interior exit 
stairways and ramps.  
Exceptions:  
1. Membrane penetrations shall be permitted on the 
outside of the interior exit stairway and ramp. S uch 
penetrations shall be protected in accordance with 
Section 714.3.2.  
2. For buildings in other than Group H, with no more 
than two stories above grade plane and are equipped 
throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system 
in accordance with Secti on 903.3.1.1, structural 
members, other than columns, that are part of the primary 
structural frame supporting the roof sheathing, roof slab 
or roof deck only and structural members that are 
secondary members supporting the roof sheathing, roof 
slab or roo f deck only, shall be permitted to penetrate an Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1844  interior exit stairway enclosure or a ramp enclosure. Such 
penetrations shall be protected in accordance with 
Section 714.  
X. V. ] Change Section 1022.9  1023.9  of the IBC to read:  
1022.9  1023.9  Floor identif ication signs. A sign shall be 
provided at each floor landing in exit enclosures 
connecting more than three stories designating the floor 
level, the terminus of the top and bottom of the exit 
enclosure and the identification of the stair or ramp by 
designa tion with a letter of the alphabet. The signage shall 
also state the story of, and the direction to, the exit 
discharge and the availability of roof access from the 
enclosure for the fire department. The sign shall be located 
five feet (1524 mm) above the floor landing in a position 
that is readily visible when the doors are in the open and 
closed positions. Floor level identification signs in tactile 
characters complying with ICC A117.1 shall be located at 
each floor level landing adjacent to the door lead ing from 
the enclosure into the corridor to identify the floor level.  
[ Y. Change Section 1024.6 of the IBC to read:  
1024.6 Penetrations. Penetrations into or through an exit 
passageway are prohibited except for equipment and 
ductwork necessary for indepe ndent pressurization, 
sprinkler piping, standpipes, electrical raceway for fire 
department communication and electrical raceway serving 
the exit passageway and terminating at a steel box not 
exceeding 16 square inches (0.010 m2). Such penetrations 
shall be  protected in accordance with Section 714. There 
shall not be penetrations or communicating openings, 
whether protected or not, between adjacent exit 
passageways.  
Exceptions:  
1. Membrane penetrations shall be permitted on the 
outside of the exit passageway. Such penetrations shall 
be protected in accordance with Section 714.3.2.  
2. For buildings in other than Group H, with no more 
than two stories above grade plane and are equipped 
throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system 
in accordan ce with Section 903.3.1.1, structural 
members, other than columns, which are part of the 
primary structural frame supporting the roof sheathing, 
roof slab or roof deck only and structural members which 
are secondary members supporting the roof sheathing, 
roof slab or roof deck only, shall be permitted to 
penetrate an interior exit stairway enclosure or a ramp 
enclosure. Such penetrations shall be protected in 
accordance with Section 714.  ]  
Y. [ W. Z. ] Change Section 1024.1  1025.1  of the IBC to 
read:  
1024 .1 1025.1  General. Approved luminous egress path 
markings delineating the exit path shall be provided in buildings of Groups A, B, E, I, M and R -1 having occupied 
floors located more than 420 feet (128 016 mm) above the 
lowest level of fire department vehi cle access in 
accordance with Sections 1024.1  1025.1  through 1024.5  
1025.5 .  
Exception: Luminous egress path markings shall not be 
required on the level of exit discharge in lobbies that serve 
as part of the exit path in accordance with Section 1027.1  
1028 .1, Exception 1.  
[ AA. Change Section 1030.1 of the IBC to read:  
1030.1 General. In addition to the means of egress required 
by this chapter, provisions shall be made for emergency 
escape and rescue openings in Group R -2 occupancies in 
accordance with Tables 1006.3.2(1) and 1006.3.2(2) and in 
Group R -3 and R -4 occupancies. Basements and sleeping 
rooms below the fourth story above grade plane shall have 
at least one exterior emergency escape and rescue opening 
in accordance with this section. Where basem ents contain 
one or more sleeping rooms, emergency escape and rescue 
openings shall be required in each sleeping room, but shall 
not be required in adjoining areas of the basement. Such 
openings shall open directly into a public way or to a yard 
or court t hat opens to a public way.  
Exceptions:  
1. Basements with a ceiling height of less than 80 inches 
(2032 mm) shall not be required to have emergency 
escape and rescue openings.  
2. Emergency escape and rescue openings are not 
required from basements or sleepi ng rooms that have an 
exit door or exit access door that opens directly into a 
public way or to a yard, court or exterior exit balcony 
that opens to a public way.  
3. Basements without habitable spaces and having not 
more than 200 square feet (18.6 m2) in f loor area shall 
not be required to have emergency escape and rescue 
openings.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-250. Chapter 11 Accessibility.  
A. Add an exception to Section 1101.2 of the IBC to read:  
Exception: Wall -mounted visible alarm notification 
appliances in Group I -3 occupancies shall be permitted to 
be a maximum of 120 inches (3048 mm) above the floor or 
ground, measured to the bottom of the appliance. Such 
appliances shall otherwise comply with all applicable 
requirements.  
B. Add Change  Section 1103.2.16  to 1103.2. 8 of the IBC to 
read:  
1103.2.16  1103.2.8  Raised and lowered areas in places of 
religious worship. Raised or lowered areas in places of 
religious worship are not required to be accessible or to be Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1845 served by an accessible route provided such areas are used 
exclusively for the performance of religious ceremonies 
and are located within an accessible story or mezzanine.  
C. Change Section 1106.1 of the IBC and replace Table 
1106.1 of the IBC with Tables 1106.1(1) and 1106.1(2) to 
read:  
1106.1 Required. Where p arking is provided, accessible 
parking spaces shall be provided in compliance with 
Tables 1106.1(1) and 1106.1(2), as applicable, except as 
required by Sections 1106.2 through 1106.4. Where more 
than one parking facility is provided on a site, the number 
of parking spaces required to be accessible shall be 
calculated separately for each parking facility. Exception: 
This section does not apply to parking spaces used 
exclusively for buses, trucks, other delivery vehicles, law -
enforcement vehicles, or vehicula r impound and motor 
pools where lots accessed by the public are provided with 
an accessible passenger loading zone.  
Table 1106.1(1)  
Accessible Parking Spaces for Groups A, B, E, M, R -1, 
R-2, and Ia 
Total Parking Spaces 
Provided  Required Minimum Number 
of Accessible Spaces  
1 - 25 1 
26 - 50 2 
51 - 75 3 
76 - 100 4 
101 - 125 5 
126 - 150 6 
151 - 200 7 
201 - 300 8 
301 - 400 9 
401 - 500 10 
501 - 1,000  2.33% of total  
1,001 and over  23, plus one for each 100, or 
fraction thereof, over 1,000  
a. Condominium parking in Group R -2 occupancies 
where parking is part of the unit purchase shall be in 
accordance with Table 1106.1(2).  
  Table 1106.1(2)  
Accessible Parking Spaces for Groups F, S, H, R -3, R-
4, and U  
Total Parking Spaces 
Provided  Required Minimum Number 
of Accessible Spaces  
1 - 25 1 
26 - 50 2 
51 - 75 3 
76 - 100 4 
101 - 150 5 
151 - 200 6 
201 - 300 7 
301 - 400 8 
401 - 500 9 
501 - 1,000  2.0% of total  
1,001 and over  20, plus one for each 100, or 
fraction thereof, over 1,000  
D. Add Section 1106.8 to the IBC to read:  
1106.8 Identification of accessible parking spaces. In 
addition to complying with applicable provisions of this 
chapter, all accessible parking spaces shall be identified by 
above grade signs. A sign or symbol painted or otherwise 
displayed on the pavement  of a parking space shall not 
constitute an above grade sign. All above grade parking 
space signs shall have the bottom edge of the sign no lower 
than four feet (1219 mm) nor higher than seven feet (2133 
mm) above the parking surface. All disabled parking signs 
shall include the following language: PENALTY, $100 -
500 Fine, TOW -AWAY ZONE. Such language may be 
placed on a separate sign and attached below existing 
above grade disabled parking signs, provided that the 
bottom edge of the attached sign is no lower  than four feet 
above the parking surface.  
E. Add Sections 1109.16 and 1109.16.1 to the IBC to read:  
1109.16 Dwellings containing universal design features for 
accessibility. Group R -5 occupancies not subject to Section 
R320.1 of the IRC and Group R -3 occupancies not subject 
to Section 1107.6.3 may comply with this section and be 
approved by the local building department as dwellings 
containing universal design features for accessibility.  
1109.16.1 Standards for dwellings containing universal 
design feat ures for accessibility. When the following 
requirements are met, approval shall be issued by the local 
building department indicating that a dwelling has been 
constructed in accordance with these standards and is Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1846  deemed to be a dwelling containing universa l design 
features for accessibility.  
1. The dwelling must comply with the requirements for 
Type C units under Section 1005 of ICC A117.1 with the 
following changes to the those requirements:  
1.1. That at least one bedroom be added to the interior 
spaces required by Section 1005.4 of ICC A117.1.  
1.2. In the toilet room or bathroom required by Section 
1005 of ICC A117.1, in addition to the lavatory and water 
closet, a shower or bathtub complying with Section 
1004.11.3.2.3 of ICC A117.1 shall be provided an d shall 
include reinforcement for future installation of grab bars in 
accordance with Section 1004.11.1 of ICC A117.1.  
1.3. That the exception to Section 1005.4 of ICC A117.1 is 
not applicable.  
1.4. That there be a food preparation area complying with 
Section 1005.7 of ICC A117.1 on the entrance level.  
1.5. That any thermostat for heating or cooling on the 
entrance level comply with Section 1005.8 of ICC A117.1.  
F. Change Item 1 of Section 1110.1  1111.1  of the IBC to 
read:  
1. Accessible parking spaces r equired by Section 1106.1.  
13VAC5 -63-260. Chapter 12 Interior environment.  
A. Add the following to the list of terms in Section 1202.1 
of the IBC:  
Day-night average sound level (Ldn).  
Sound transmission class (STC) rating.  
B. Add Section 1203.4.4  1203. 5.4 to the IBC to read:  
1203.4.4  1203.5.4  Insect screens in occupancies other than 
Group R. Every door, window and other outside opening 
for natural ventilation serving structures classified as other 
than a residential group containing habitable rooms, fo od 
preparation areas, food service areas, or any areas where 
products to be included or utilized in food for human 
consumption are processed, manufactured, packaged, or 
stored, shall be supplied with approved tightly fitting 
screens of not less than 16 mes h per inch (16 mesh per 25 
mm) and every screen door used for insect control shall 
have a self -closing device.  
Exception: Screen doors shall not be required for out 
swinging doors or other types of openings which make 
screening impractical, provided other  approved means, 
such as air curtains or insect repellent fans are provided.  
C. Add Section 1203.4.5  1203.5.5  to the IBC to read:  
1203.4.5  1203.5.5  Insect screens in Group R occupancies. 
Every door, window and other outside opening required for 
natural v entilation purposes which serves a structure classified as a residential group shall be supplied with 
approved tightly fitted screens of not less than 16 mesh per 
inch (16 mesh per 25 mm) and every screen door used for 
insect control shall have a self -closing device.  
D. Add Section 1203.6  1203.7  to the IBC to read:  
1203.6  1203.7  Smoking areas in restaurants. Smoking 
areas in restaurants, as defined in §  15.2-2820 of the Code 
of Virginia, shall comply with the following:  
1. The area where smoking may be p ermitted shall be 
structurally separated from the portion of the restaurant 
in which smoking is prohibited. For the purposes of this 
section, structurally separated means a stud wall covered 
with drywall or other building material or like barrier, 
which, w hen completed, extends from the floor to the 
ceiling, resulting in a physically separated room. Such 
wall or barrier may include portions that are glass or 
other gas -impervious building material and shall be 
permitted to have a door leading to areas in whi ch 
smoking is prohibited, provided the door is capable of 
being closed at all times.  
2. The area where smoking may be permitted shall be 
separately vented to prevent the recirculation of air from 
such area to the area of the restaurant where smoking is 
prohibited.  
Exception: The above requirements do not apply if a 
restaurant is exempt from, or meets any of the exceptions 
to, the Virginia Indoor Clean Air Act (Chapter 28.2 of Title 
15.2 (§  15.2-2820 et seq.) of the Code of Virginia).  
E. Change Section 12 07.1 of the IBC to read:  
1207.1 Scope. Sections 1207.2 and 1207.3 shall apply to 
common interior walls, partitions and floor/ceiling assemblies 
between adjacent dwelling units or between dwelling units 
and adjacent public areas such as halls, corridors, stairs or 
service areas. Se ction 1207.4 applies to the construction of the 
exterior envelope of Group R occupancies within airport noise 
zones and to the exterior envelope of Group A, B, E, I and M 
occupancies in any locality in whose jurisdiction, or adjacent 
jurisdiction, is locat ed a United States Master Jet Base, a 
licensed airport or United States government or military air 
facility, when such requirements are enforced by a locality 
pursuant to §  15.2-2295 of the Code of Virginia.  
F. Add Section 1207.4 to the IBC to read:  
1207 .4 Airport noise attenuation standards. Where the Ldn is 
determined to be 65 dBA or greater, the minimum STC rating 
of structure components shall be provided in compliance with 
Table 1207.4. As an alternative to compliance with Table 
1207.4, structures sha ll be permitted to be designed and 
constructed so as to limit the interior noise level to no greater 
than 45 Ldn. Exterior structures, terrain and permanent 
plantings shall be permitted to be included as part of the 
alternative design. The alternative desi gn shall be certified by 
an RDP.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1847 G. Add Table 1207.4 to the IBC to read:  
Table 1207.4  
Airport Noise Attenuation Standards  
Ldn STC of exterior walls and roof/ceiling 
assemblies  STC of doors and windows  
65–69 39 25 
70–74 44 33 
75 or greater  49 38 
13VAC5 -63-264. Chapter 13 Energy efficiency.  
Add Section 1301.1.1.1 to the IBC to read:  
1301.1.1.1 Changes to the IECC. The following changes shall be made to the IECC:  
1. [ Change Table C402.4 to read:  
Table C402.4  
Building Envelope Requirements: Fenestration  
Climate Zone  1 2 3 4 (Except 
Marine)  5 and 
Marine 4  6 7 8 
Vertical fenestration  
U-factor  
Fixed fenestration  0.50 0.50 0.46 0.38 0.38 0.36 0.29 0.29 
Operable fenestration  0.65 0.65 0.60 0.45 0.45 0.43 0.37 0.37 
Entrance doors  1.10 0.83 0.77 0.77 0.77 0.77 0.77 0.77 
SHGC  
SHGC  0.25 0.25 0.25 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.45 0.45 
Skylights  
U-factor  0.75 0.65 0.55 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 
SHGC  0.35 0.35 0.35 0.40 0.40 0.40 NR NR 
NR = No requirement.  
2. Change Section  C402.4.3 to read:  
C402.4.3 Maximum U -factor and SHGC. The maximum 
U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) for 
fenestration shall be as specified in Table C402.4.  
The window projection factor shall be determined in 
accordance with Equation 4 -5. 
(Equation 4 -5) 
PF = A/B  
where:  
PF = Projection factor (decimal).  
A = Distance measured horizontally from the farthest 
continuous extremity of any overhand, eave, or permanently attached shading device to the vertical 
surface of the glazing.  
B = Distance measured vertically from the bottom of the 
glazing to the underside of the overhang, eave, or 
permanently attached shading device.  
Where different windows or glass doors have different 
PF values, they shall each be evaluated separately.  
Where the fenestrat ion projection factor for a specific 
vertical fenestration product is greater than or equal to 
0.20, the required maximum SHGC from Table C402.4 
shall be adjusted by multiplying the required maximum 
SHGC by the multiplier specified in Table C402.4.3 
corres ponding with the orientation of the fenestration 
product and the projection factor.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1848  3. Add Table C402.4.3 to read:  
Table C402.4.3  
SHGC Adjustment Multipliers  
Projection factor  Oriented within 
45 degrees of 
true north  All other 
orientations  
0.2 ≤ PF < 0.5  1.1 1.2 
PF ≤ 0.5  1.2 1.6 
4. ] Add Exception 3 to  an exception to the first paragraph 
of Section C402.4.5.2  C403.2.4.3  to read:  
3. Exception:  Any grease duct serving a Type I hood 
installed in accordance with IMC Section 506.3 shall not 
be required to have a motorized or gravity damper.  
[ 5. Add Section C403.2.6.3 to read:  
C403.2.6.3 Dwelling unit mechanical ventilation. 
Mechanical ventilation  shall be provided for dwelling 
units in accordance with the IMC.  
2. ] Change Section C402.4.8 to read:  
C402.4.8 Recessed lighting. Recessed luminaires 
installed in the building thermal envelope shall be sealed 
to limit air leakage between conditioned and  
unconditioned spaces. All recessed luminaires shall be 
IC-rated and labeled as having an air leakage rate or not 
more 2.0 cfm (0.944 L/s) when tested in accordance with 
ASTM E 283 at a 1.57 psf (75 Pa) pressure differential. 
All recessed luminaires instal led in the thermal envelope 
shall be sealed with a gasket or caulk between the 
housing and interior wall or ceiling covering.  
3. Add Exception 4 to Section C403.2.4.4 to read:  
4. Any grease duct serving a Type I hood installed in 
accordance with IMC Sect ion 506.3 shall not be required 
to have a motorized or gravity damper.  
4. Change the exception to Section C405.1 to read:  
Exception: Dwelling units within commercial buildings 
shall not be required to comply with Sections C405.2 
through C405.5, provided that not less than 75% of the 
permanently installed luminaires, other than low -voltage 
lighting, shall be fitted for, and contain only, high -
efficacy lamps.  
5. [ 6. ] Change Section C405.6  C405.5  to read:  
C405.6  C405.5  Exterior lighting (Mandatory). All 
exterior lighting, other than low -voltage landscape 
lighting, shall comply with Sections C405.6.1 and 
C405.6.2  Section C405.5.1 .  
Exception: Where approved because of historical, safety, 
signage, or emergency considerations.  [ 7. Change Section R401.2 to read:  
R401.2 Compliance. Projects shall comply with all 
provisions of Chapter 4 labeled "Mandatory" and one of 
the following:  
1. Sections R401 through R404.  
2. Section R405.  
3. Section R406.  
4. The most recent version of REScheck, keyed to the 
2015 IECC.  
Note: See REScheck compliance guidance issued by 
DHCD, available at the Department's website.  ]  
6. [ 3. 8. ] Delete Section R401.3.  
7. [ 4. 9. ] Change the ceiling R -value and wood frame wall 
R-value categories for climate zone "4 except Marine" in 
Table R402.1.1  R402.1.2  to read:  
Ceiling R -Value  Wood Frame Wall R -Value  
38 15 or 13 + 1h 
8. [ 5. 10. ] Change the ceiling U -factor and frame wall U -
factor categories for climate zone "4 except Marine" in 
Table R402.1.3  R402.1.4  to read:  
Ceiling U -Factor  Frame Wall U -Factor  
0.030  0.079  
9. [ 6. 11. ] Change Sections R402.2.1 and  Section  
R402.2.4 to read:  
R402.2.1 Ceilings with attic spaces. When Section 
R402.1.1 would require R -38 in the ceiling, installing R -
30 over 100% of the ceiling area shall be deemed to 
satisfy the requirement for R -38 wherever the full height 
of uncompressed R -30 insulation extends  over the wall 
top plate at the eaves. Similarly, when Section R402.1.1 
would require R -49 in the ceiling, installing R -38 over 
100% of the ceiling area shall be deemed to satisfy the 
requirement for R -49 wherever the full height of 
uncompressed R -38 insul ation extends over the wall top 
plate at the eaves. This reduction shall not apply to the U -
factor alternative approach in Section R402.1.3 and the 
total UA alternative in Section R402.1.4.  
R402.2.4 Access hatches and doors. Access doors from 
conditioned spaces to unconditioned spaces (e.g., attics 
and crawl spaces) shall be weatherstripped and insulated 
in accordance with the following values:  
1. Hinged vertical doors shall have a minimum overall R -
5 insulation value;  
2. Hatches and scuttle hole covers shall be insulated to a 
level equivalent to the insulation on the surrounding 
surfaces; and  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1849 3. Pull down stairs shall have a minimum of 75% of the 
panel area having R -5 rigid insulation.  
Access shall be provided to all equipment that prevents 
damaging or  compressing the insulation. A wood framed 
or equivalent baffle or retainer is required to be provided 
when loose fill insulation is installed, the purpose of 
which is to prevent the loose fill insulation from spilling 
into the living space when the attic access is opened and 
to provide a permanent means of maintaining the 
installed R -value of the loose fill insulation.  
10. Delete Section R402.3.6 and change  [ 7. 12. ] Change  
Sections R402.4 and R402.4.1.1 to read:  
R402.4 Air leakage. The building thermal  envelope shall 
be constructed to limit air leakage in accordance with the 
requirements of Sections R402.4.1 through R402.4.4.  
R402.4.1.1 Installation (Mandatory). The components of 
the building thermal envelope as listed in Table 
R402.4.1.1 shall be inst alled in accordance with the 
manufacturer's instructions and the criteria listed in Table 
R402.4.1.1, as applicable to the method of construction. 
Where required by the code official, an approved third 
party shall inspect all components and verify complian ce.  
11. [ 8. 13. ] Change the title of the "Criteria"  "Insulation 
Installation Criteria"  category of Table R402.4.1.1; change 
the "Walls,"  "Shower/tub on exterior wall" and "Fireplace" 
categories  category  of Table R402.4.1.1, and add footnotes 
"b" and "c"  to Table R402.4.1.1 to read:  
Component  Criteriaa,b 
Walls  Cavities within corners 
and headers shall be 
insulated by completely 
filling the cavity with a 
material having a 
minimum thermal 
resistance of R -3 per inch.  
The junction of the 
foundation and sill  plate 
shall be sealed.  
The junction of the top 
plate and top of exterior 
walls shall be sealed.  
Exterior thermal envelope 
insulation for framed 
walls shall be installed in 
substantial contact and 
continuous alignment with 
the air barrier.  
Knee walls shall  be 
sealed.  Shower or tub on 
exterior wallc Exterior walls adjacent to 
showers and tubs shall be 
insulated and an air barrier 
installed on the interior 
side of the exterior wall, 
adjacent to the shower or 
tub. 
Fireplace  An air barrier shall be 
installed on fireplace 
walls. Fireplaces shall 
have gasketed doors or 
tight-fitting flue dampers.  
b. Structural integrity of headers shall be in 
accordance with the applicable building code.  
c. Air barriers used behind showers and tubs on 
exterior walls shall be of  a permeable material that 
does not cause the entrapment of moisture in the stud 
cavity.  
Component  Air Barrier 
Criteria  Insulation 
Installation 
Criteriab 
Shower/tub 
on exterior 
wallc The air barrier 
installed at 
exterior walls 
adjacent to 
showers and 
tubs shall be 
installed on the 
interior side 
and separate 
the exterior 
walls from the 
showers and 
tubs.  Exterior walls 
adjacent to 
showers and 
tubs shall be 
insulated.  
b. Structural integrity of headers shall be in 
accordance with the applicable building code.  
c. Air barriers used behind showers and tubs on 
exterior walls shall be of a permeable material that 
does not cause the entrapment of moisture in the stud 
cavity.  
12. [ 9. 14. ] Change Section R402.4.1.2 and add Sections 
R402.4.1.2.1, R402.4.1.2.2, and R402.4.1.3 to read:  
R402.4.1.2 Air sealing. Building envelope air tightness 
shall be demonstrated to comply with either Section 
R402.4.1.2.1 or R402.4.1.2.2.  
R402.4.1.2.1 Testing option. The building or dwelling 
unit shall be tested for air leakage. Testing shall be 
conducted with a blower door at a pressure of 0.2 inches 
w.g. (50 Pascals). Where required by the building Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1850  official, testing shall be conducted by an approved third 
party. A written report of the results of the test shall be 
signed by the party conducting the test and provided to 
the building official. Testing shall be performed at any 
time after creation of all penetrations of the building 
thermal envelope.  
During testing:  
1. Exterior windows and doors and fireplace and stove 
doors shall  be closed, but not sealed beyond the intended 
weatherstripping or other infiltration control measures;  
2. Dampers, including exhaust, intake, makeup air, 
backdraft, and flue dampers, shall be closed, but not 
sealed beyond intended infiltration control me asures;  
3. Interior doors, if installed at the time of the test, shall 
be open;  
4. Exterior doors for continuous ventilation systems and 
heat recovery ventilators shall be closed and sealed;  
5. Heating and cooling systems, if installed at the time of 
the test, shall be turned off; and  
6. Supply and return registers, if installed at the time of 
the test, shall be fully open.  
R402.4.1.2.2 Visual inspection option. Building envelope 
tightness s hall be considered acceptable when the items 
listed in Table R402.4.1.1, applicable to the method of 
construction, are field verified. Where required by the 
building official, an approved party, independent from 
the installer, shall inspect the air barrier . When this 
option is chosen, the dwelling unit shall be ventilated by 
mechanical means in accordance with Section 403 of the 
IMC.  
R402.4.1.3 Leakage rate (Prescriptive). The building or 
dwelling unit shall have an air leakage rate not exceeding 
5 changes  per hour as verified in accordance with Section 
R402.4.1.2.  
13. Change Section R403.1.1 to read:  
R403.1.1 Programmable thermostat. The thermostat 
controlling the primary heating or cooling system of the 
dwelling unit shall be capable of controlling the heating 
and cooling system on a daily schedule to maintain 
different temperature set points at different times of the 
day. This thermostat shall include the capability to set 
back or temporarily operate the system to maintain zone 
temperatures down to 55°F  (13°C) or up to 85°F (29°C). 
The thermostat shall initially be programmed with a 
heating temperature set point no higher than 70°F (21°C) 
and a cooling temperature set point no lower than 78°F 
(26°C).  14. [ 10. Change Section  ] R403.2.2  [ R403.3.2  to rea d: ]  
R403.2.2  [ R403.3.2  Sealing (Mandatory). Ducts, air 
handlers, and filter boxes shall be sealed. Joints and 
seams shall comply with either the IMC or the IRC, as 
applicable. Verification of compliance with this section 
shall be in accordance with eith er ] Section R403.2.2.1  
[ Sections R403.3.3 and R403.3.4 when the testing option 
is chosen  ] or Section R403.2.2.2  [ R403.3.5 when the 
visual inspection option is chosen .  
Exceptions:  
1. Air -impermeable spray foam products shall be 
permitted to be applied  without additional joint seals.  
2. ] Where a duct connection is made that is partially 
inaccessible, three screws or rivets shall be equally 
spaced on the exposed portion of the joint so as to 
prevent a hinge effect.  
3. Continuously welded and locking -type longitudinal 
joints and seams in ducts operating at  [ For ducts having 
a static  ] pressures  [ pressure of  less than 2 inches of 
water column (500 Pa)  ] pressure classification shall not 
require  [ , additional closure systems shall not be 
requi red for continuously welded joints and seams and 
locking -type joints and seams of other than the snap -lock 
and button -lock types .  
15. Change Section R403.3.3 to read:  
R403.3.3 Duct testing (Mandatory). Ducts shall be 
pressure tested to determine air leaka ge by one of the 
following methods:  
1. Rough -in test: Total leakage shall be measured with a 
pressure differential of 0.1 inch w.g. (25 Pa) across the 
system, including the manufacturer's air handler 
enclosure if installed at the time of the test. All regi sters 
shall be taped or otherwise sealed during the test.  
2. Postconstruction test: Total leakage shall be measured 
with a pressure differential of 0.1 inch w.g. (25 Pa) 
across the entire system, including the manufacturer's air 
handler enclosure. Register s shall be taped or otherwise 
sealed during the test.  
Exception: A duct air leakage test shall not be required 
where the ducts and air handlers are located entirely 
within the building thermal envelope.  
A written report of the results of the test shall be signed 
by the party conducting the test and provided to the code 
official. The licensed mechanical contractor installing the 
mechanical system shall be permitted to perform the duct 
testing. The contractor shall have been trained on the 
equipment used to p erform the test.  ]  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1851 15. [ 11. Change Section  ] R403.2.2.1  [ R403.3.5  to read:  ]  
R403.2.2.1 Testing option. Duct tightness shall be 
verified by either of the following:  
1. Post -construction test: Total leakage shall be less than 
or equal to 6 cfm (169.9 L /min) per 100 square feet (9.29 
m2) of conditioned floor area when tested at a pressure 
differential of 0.1 inch w.g. (25 Pa) across the entire 
system, including the manufacturer's air handler 
enclosure. All register boots shall be taped or otherwise 
seale d during the test.  
2. Rough -in test: Total leakage shall be less than or equal 
to 5 cfm (141.5 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of 
conditioned floor area when tested at a pressure 
differential of 0.1 inch w.g. (25 Pa) across the system, 
including the manufacturer's air handler enclosure. All 
register boots shall be taped or otherwise sealed during 
the test. If the air handler is not installed at the time of 
the test, total leakage shall be less than or equal to 5 cfm 
(141.5 L/min) per 100 square feet ( 9.29 m2) of 
conditioned floor area.  
Exception: The total leakage test is not required for ducts 
and air handlers located entirely within the building 
thermal envelope.  
When this option is chosen, testing shall be performed by 
approved qualified individua ls, testing agencies or 
contractors. Testing and results shall be as prescribed in 
Section R403.2.2 and approved recognized industry 
standards.  
16. Add Section R403.2.2.2 to read:  
R403.2.2.2  [ R403.3.5  Visual inspection option. In 
addition to the inspect ion of ducts otherwise required by 
this code, when the air handler and all ducts are not 
within conditioned space and this option is chosen to 
verify duct tightness, duct tightness shall be considered 
acceptable when the requirements of Section  ] R403.2.2  
[ R403.3.5  are field verified.  ]  
17. [ 12. Add Section  ] R403.2.2.3  [ R403.3.6  to read:  ]  
R403.2.2.3 Sealed air handler. Air handlers shall have a 
manufacturer's designation for an air leakage of no more 
than 2.0% of the design air flow rate when tested in 
accordance with ASHRAE 193.  
[ R403.3.6 Building cavities (Mandatory). Building 
framing c avities shall not be used as ducts or plenums.  ]  
18. Change Section R403.4.2 to read:  
R403.4.2 Hot water pipe insulation (Prescriptive). 
Insulation for hot water pipe with a minimum thermal 
resistance (R -value) of R -3 shall be applied to the 
following:  
1. Piping larger than 3/4 inch nominal diameter.  2. Piping serving more than one dwelling unit.  
3. Piping located outside the conditioned space.  
4. Piping from the water heater to a distribution 
manifold.  
5. Piping located under a floor slab.  
6. Buried piping.  
7. Supply and return piping in recirculation systems other 
than demand recirculation systems.  
19. Delete Table R403.4.2.  
20. [ 13. 16. ] Change Section R403.6  R403.7  to read:  
R403.6  R403.7  Equipment and appliance sizing. Heating 
and c ooling equipment and appliances shall be sized in 
accordance with ACCA Manual S or other approved 
sizing methodologies based on building loads calculated 
in accordance with ACCA Manual J or other approved 
heating and cooling calculation methodologies.  
Exception: Heating and cooling equipment and appliance 
sizing shall not be limited to the capacities determined in 
accordance with Manual S or other approved sizing 
methodologies where any of the following conditions 
apply:  
1. The specified equipment or appl iance utilizes multi -
stage technology or variable refrigerant flow technology 
and the loads calculated in accordance with the approved 
heating and cooling methodology fall within the range of 
the manufacturer's published capacities for that 
equipment or ap pliance.  
2. The specified equipment or appliance manufacturer's 
published capacities cannot satisfy both the total and 
sensible heat gains calculated in accordance with the 
approved heating and cooling methodology and the next 
larger standard size unit is  specified.  
3. The specified equipment or appliance is the lowest 
capacity unit available from the specified manufacturer.  
21. Change Section R404.1 to read:  
R404.1 Lighting equipment (Mandatory). A minimum of 
50% of the lamps in permanently installed l uminaires 
shall be high -efficacy lamps or a minimum of 50% of the 
permanently installed luminaires shall contain only high -
efficacy lamps.  
Exception: Low -voltage lighting shall not be required to 
utilize high -efficiency lamps.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1852  22. [ 14. Change the  ] "Glazing"  [ "Vertical fenestration 
other than opaque doors"  and "Air exchange rate" 
categories of Table R405.5.2(1) to read:   
[ Building 
Component  Standard Reference 
Design  Proposed 
Design  ]  
Glazinga  [ Vertical 
fenestration other 
than opaque doors  Total areab is 15% 
of the conditioned 
floor area.  As proposed  ]  
Glazinga [ Vertical 
fenestration other 
than opaque doors  Orientation: equally 
distributed to four 
cardinal compass 
orientations  
(North, East, South 
& West).  As proposed  ]  
Glazinga [ Vertical 
fenestration other 
than opaque doors  U-factor: from 
Table  ] 
R402.1.3  [ R402.1.4  As proposed  ]  
Glazinga [ Vertical 
fenestration other 
than opaque doors  SHGC: From 
Table  ] 
R402.1.1  [ R402.1.2  
except that for 
climates with no 
requirement (NR) 
SHGC = 0.40 sh all 
be used.  As proposed  ]  
Glazinga [ Vertical 
fenestration other 
than opaque doors  Interior shade 
fraction:  
 
0.92-(0.21 x SHGC 
for the standard 
reference design)  0.92-(0.21 x 
SHGC as 
proposed)  ]  
Glazinga [ Vertical 
fenestration other 
than opaque doors  External shading: 
none.  As proposed  
Air exchange rate  Air leakage rate of 
5 air changes per 
hour at a pressure of 
0.2 inches w.g (50 
Pa). The 
mechanical 
ventilation rate shall 
be in addition to the 
air leakage rate and 
the same as in the 
proposed design,  
but no greater than 
0.01 × CFA + 7.5 × 
(Nbr + 1) where:  
CFA = 
conditioned 
floor area  
Nbr = number of 
bedrooms  For residences 
that are not 
tested, the 
same air 
leakage rate 
as the 
standard 
reference 
design. For 
tested 
residences, 
the measured 
air exchange 
ratec a. The 
mechanical 
ventilation 
rated b shall be 
in addition to 
the air Energy recovery 
shall not be 
assumed for 
mechanical 
ventilation.  leakage rate 
and shall be 
as proposed.  
a. Where required by the code official, testing shall be 
conducted by an approved party. Hourly calculations as 
specified in the ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, or the 
equivalent shall be used to determine the energy loads resulting 
from infiltration.  
b. The combined air exchange rate for infiltration and 
mechanical ventilatio n shall be determined in accordance with 
Equation 43 of 2001 ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, 
page 26.24 and the "Whole -house Ventilation" provisions of 
2001 ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, page 26.19 for 
intermittent mechanical ventilation.  
17. Change Table R406.4 to read:  
Table R406.4  
Maximum Energy Rating Indexa 
Climate Zone  Energy Rating Index  
1 52 
2 52 
3 51 
4 62 
5 55 
6 54 
7 53 
8 53 
a. When onsite renewable energy is included for compliance 
using the ERI analysis per Section R406.4, the building 
shall meet the mandatory requirements of Section R406.2 
and the building thermal envelope shall be greater than or 
equal to levels of energy efficiency and solar heat gain 
coefficient in Table R402.1.2, with a ceiling R -value of 49 
and a wood fram e wall R -value of 20 or 13+5, or Table 
R402.1.4, with a ceiling U -factor of 0.026 and a frame wall 
U-factor of 0.060.  
15. 18. ] Delete Section R503.1.1.1.  
13VAC5 -63-268. Chapter 15 Roof assemblies and rooftop 
structures.  
A. Change the title of IBC Section  1511 to read:  
Roofing and Roofing Repair.  
B. Change Section 1511.1 of the IBC to read as follows and 
delete the remainder of Section 1511 of the IBC:  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1853 1511.1 General. Materials and methods of application used 
for reroofing and roof repair shall comply with  the 
applicable requirements of Chapter 15 and the 
requirements of Section 303 of the VEBC.  
13VAC5 -63-270. Chapter 16 Structural design.  
A. Change Section 1609.3 of the IBC to read:  
1609.3 Basic wind speed. The ultimate design wind speed, 
Vult, in miles per hour (mph), for the determination of the 
wind loads shall be determined by Figures 1609A  
1609.3(1) , 1609B  1609.3(2) , and 1609C  1609.3(3) . The 
ultimate design wind speed, V ult, for use in the design of 
Risk Category II buildings and structures shall be obtained 
from Figure 1609A  1609.3(1) . The ultimate design wind 
speed, V ult, for use in the design of Risk Categories III and 
IV buildings and structures shall be obtained from Figure 
1609B  1609.3(2) . The ultimate design wind speed, V ult, for 
use in the des ign of Risk Category I buildings and 
structures shall be obtained from Figure 1609C  1609.3(3) . 
The ultimate design wind speeds for localities in special 
wind regions, near mountainous terrains, and near gorges 
shall be based on elevation. Areas at 4,000 fe et in elevation 
or higher shall use 142 V mph (62.5 m/s) and areas under 
4,000 feet in elevation shall use 116 V mph (51 m/s). 
Gorge areas shall be based on the highest recorded speed 
per locality or in accordance with local jurisdiction 
requirements deter mined in accordance with Section 26.5.1 
of ASCE 7.  
In nonhurricane -prone regions, when the ultimate design 
wind speed, V ult, is estimated from regional climatic data, 
the ultimate design wind speed, V ult, shall be determined in 
accordance with Section 26. 5.3 of ASCE 7.  
B. Add Section 1612.1.1 to the IBC to read:  
1612.1.1 Elevation of manufactured homes. New or 
replacement manufactured homes to be located in any 
flood hazard zone shall be placed in accordance with the 
applicable elevation requirements of t his code.  
Exception: Manufactured homes installed on sites in an 
existing manufactured home park or subdivision shall be 
permitted to be placed so that the manufactured home 
chassis is supported by reinforced piers or other foundation 
elements of at least equivalent strength that are no less than 
36 inches (914 mm) above grade in lieu of being elevated 
at or above the base flood elevation provided no 
manufactured home at the same site has sustained flood 
damage exceeding 50% of the market value of the home 
before the damage occurred.  
13VAC5 -63-280. Chapter 17 Special inspections and tests.  
A. Change Section 1703.1 of the IBC to read:  
1703.1 Approved agency. An approved agency responsible 
for laboratory testing or special inspections, or both, must comply with the qualification, certification and experience 
requirements of ASTM E329 or the alternatives listed 
herein.  
B. Change Section 1703.1.1 of the IBC to read:  
1703.1.1 Independence. An approved agency shall be 
objective and competent. The agency shall also disclose 
possible conflicts of interest so that objectivity can be 
confirmed. The special inspector and their agents shall be 
independent from the person, persons or contractor 
responsible for the physical construction of the project 
requiring special  inspections.  
C. Change Section 1703.1.3 of the IBC to read:  
1703.1.3 Personnel. An approved agency shall employ 
experienced personnel educated in conducting, supervising 
and evaluating tests or inspections, or both. Upon request 
by the building official , documentation shall be provided 
demonstrating the applicable agency's accreditation as 
noted in ASTM E329 and individuals' resumes indicating 
pertinent training, certifications and other qualifications for 
special inspection personnel associated with the  proposed 
construction requiring special inspections. The building 
official may prescribe the manner of qualification 
documentation and frequency of updating information 
regarding agency or individual inspector approval.  
Firms providing special inspection  services or individual 
inspectors seeking approval of alternative certifications or 
qualifications, or both, listed in ASTM E329 may submit 
documentation demonstrating equivalency. This 
documentation may include evidence of meeting other 
recognized standa rds or alternative certifications to 
demonstrate that the minimum qualifications, certification 
and experience intended by ASTM E329 have been met. 
The building official may, if satisfied that equivalency has 
been demonstrated, approve the credentials of t he firm or 
individual.  
D. Change Section 1704.2 of the IBC to read:  
1704.2 Special inspections. Where application is made for 
construction as described in this section, the owner shall 
employ one or more special inspectors to provide 
inspections and test s during construction on the types of 
work listed under Section 1704  1705 . All individuals or 
agents performing special inspection functions shall 
operate under the direct supervision of an RDP in 
responsible charge of special inspection activities, also 
known as the "special inspector." The special inspector 
shall ensure that the individuals under their charge are 
performing only those special inspections or laboratory 
testing that are consistent with their knowledge, training 
and certification for the spe cified inspection or laboratory 
testing.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1854  Exceptions:  
1. [ Special  The building official shall be permitted to 
waive special  ] inspections and tests  [ are not required 
for ] work  [ construction  of a minor nature or as 
warranted by conditions in the jurisd iction as approved 
by the building official  ].  
2. Special inspections [  and tests  ] are not required for 
[ building components unless the design involves the 
practice of professional engineering or architecture as 
defined by the laws of this Commonwealth and 
regulations governing the professional registration and 
certification of engineers and architects : 
2.1. One story buildings under 20 feet (6096 mm) in 
height which do not exceed 5000 square feet (565 m2) in 
building area; or  
2.2. Alterations to Group U  structures which do not 
increase loads in accordance with Sections 403.3 and 
403.4 of the VEBC  ].  
3. Unless otherwise required by the building official, 
special inspections [  and tests  ] are not required for 
occupancies in Groups R -3, R-4 or R -5 and occu pancies 
in Group U that are accessory to a residential occupancy 
including, but not limited to, those listed in Section 
312.1.  
4. Special inspections and tests are not required for 
portions of structures designed and constructed in 
accordance with the col d-formed steel light -frame 
construction provisions of Section 2211.7 or the 
conventional light -frame construction provisions of 
Section 2308.  
5. The contractor is permitted to employ the approved 
agencies where the contractor is also the owner.  
E. Change S ection 1704.2.3 of the IBC to read:  
1704.2.3 Statement of special inspections. The permit 
applicant shall submit a statement of special inspections 
prepared by the RDP in responsible charge in accordance 
with Section 111.1. This statement shall be in acco rdance 
with Section 1704.3.  
Exceptions  Exception :  
1. A statement of special inspections is not required for 
structures designed and constructed in accordance with 
the conventional construction provisions of Section 2308.  
2. The statement of special insp ections is permitted to be 
prepared by a qualified person approved by the building 
official for construction not designed by a registered 
design professional.  F. Change category "12" of Table 1705.3 of the IBC to read:  
Verification 
and 
inspection  
Type  Continuous 
Special 
Inspection  Periodic 
Special 
Inspection  Referenced 
Standarda IBC 
Reference  
12. Inspect 
formwork 
for shape, 
location 
and 
dimensions 
of the 
concrete 
member 
being 
formed, 
shoring and 
reshoring.  -- X ACI 318: 
6.1.1 
26.10.1(b)  -- 
G. Delete Sections 1705.16  1705.17 , 1705.16.1  1705.17.1 , 
and 1705.16.2  1705.17.2  of the IBC.  
13VAC5 -63-290. Chapter 18 Soils and foundations.  
A. Change the exception to Section 1804.5  1804.6  of the 
IBC to read:  
Exception: Compacted fill material less th an 12 inches 
(305 mm) in depth need not comply with an approved 
report, provided it is a natural non -organic material that is 
not susceptible to swelling when exposed to moisture and 
it has been compacted to a minimum of 90% Modified 
Proctor in accordance with ASTM D1557. The compaction 
shall be verified by a qualified inspector approved by the 
building official. Material other than natural material may 
be used as fill material when accompanied by a 
certification from an RDP and approved by the building 
official.  
B. Add an exception to Section 1808.1 of the IBC to read:  
Exception: One -story detached accessory structures not 
exceeding 256 square feet (23.78m2) of building area, 
provided all of the following conditions are met:  
1. The building eave height is 10 feet (3048 mm) or less.  
2. The maximum height from the finished floor level to 
grade does not exceed 18 inches (457.2 mm).  
3. The supporting structural elements in direct contact with 
the ground shall be placed level on firm soil and when such 
elements are wood they shall be approved pressure 
preservative treated suitable for ground contact use.  
4. The structure is anchored to withstand wind loads as 
required by this code.  
5. The structure shall be of light -frame construction with 
walls and roof of light  weight material, not slate, tile, brick 
or masonry.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1855 13VAC5 -63-295. Chapter 23 Wood.  
A. Change Item 3.2 2 of Section 2308.2  2308.2.3  of the IBC to read:  
3.2. 2. Live loads shall not exceed 40 psf (1916 N/m2) for floors.  
Exception: Concrete slab -on-grade live load limited only by allowable soil bearing pressure.  
B. Change the indicated rows of Table 2308.8(1) of the IBC to read:  
Joist 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species and Grade  Dead Load = 10 pounds per square foot  Dead Load = 20  pounds per square foot  
2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum floor joist spans  
(ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) 
12 Southern Pine SS  12-3 16-2 20–8 25-1 12-3 16-2 20–8 25-1 
Southern Pine #1  11–10 15-7 19-10 24-2 11–10 15-7 18-7 22-0 
Southern Pine #2  11–3 14-11 18-1 21-4 10-9 13-8 16-2 19-1 
Southern Pine #3  9-2 11–6 14-0 16-6 8-2 10-3 12-6 14-9 
16 Southern Pine SS  11–2 14-8 18-9 22-10 11–2 14-8 18-9 22-10 
Southern Pine #1  10-9 14-2 18-0 21-4 10-9 13-9 16-1 19-1 
Southern Pine #2  10-3 13-3 15-8 18-6 9-4 11–10 14-0 16-6 
Southern Pine #3  7-11 10-0 12-1 14-4 7-1 8-11 10-10 12-10 
19.2 Southern Pine SS  10-6 13-10 17-8 21-6 10-6 13-10 17-8 21-6 
Southern Pine #1  10-1 13-4 16-5 19-6 9-11 12-7 14-8 17-5 
Southern Pine #2  9-6 12-1 14-4 16-10 8-6 10-10 12-10 15-1 
Southern Pine #3  7-3 9-1 11–0 13-1 6-5 8-2 9-10 11–8 
24 Southern Pine  SS 9-9 12-10 16-5 19-11 9-9 12-10 16-5 19-8 
Southern Pine #1  9-4 12-4 14-8 17-5 8-10 11–3 13-1 15-7 
Southern Pine #2  8-6 10-10 12-10 15-1 7-7 9-8 11–5 13-6 
Southern Pine #3  6-5 8-2 9-10 11–8 5-9 7-3 8-10 10-5 
C. Change the indicated rows of Table 2308.8(2) of the IBC to read:  
Joist 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species and Grade  Dead Load = 10 pounds per square foot Dead Load = 20 pounds per square foot  
2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum floor joist spans  
(ft.-in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) 
12 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  11–2 
10-9 
10-3 
8-2 14-8 
14-2 
13-6 
10-3 18-9 
18-0 
16-2 
12-6 22-10 
21-11 
19-1 
14-9 11–2 
10-9 
9-10 
7-5 14-8 
14-2 
12-6 
9-5 18-9 
16-11 
14-9 
11–5 22-10 
20–1 
17-5 
13-6 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1856  16 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  10-2 
9-9 
9-4 
7-1 13-4 
12-10 
11–10 
8-11 17-0 
16-1 
14-0 
10-10 20–9 
19-1 
16-6 
12-10 10-2 
9-9 
8-6 
6-5 13-4 
12-7 
10-10 
8-2 17-0 
14-8 
12-10 
9-10 20–9 
17-5 
15-1 
11–8 
19.2 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  9-6 
9-2 
8-6 
6-5 12-7 
12-1 
10-10 
8-2 16-0 
14-8 
12-10 
9-10 19-6 
17-5 
15-1 
11–8 9-6 
9-0 
7-9 
5-11 12-7 
11–5 
9-10 
7-5 16-0 
13-5 
11–8 
9-0 19-6 
15-11 
13-9 
10-8 
24 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  8-10 
8-6 
7-7 
5-9 11–8 
11–3 
9-8 
7-3 14-11 
13-1 
11–5 
8-10 18-1 
15-7 
13-6 
10-5 8-10 
8-1 
7-0 
5-3 11–8 
10-3 
8-10 
6-8 14-11 
12-0 
10-5 
8-1 18-0 
14-3 
12-4 
9-6 
D. Change the title and footnote "b" of Table 2308.9.5 of the IBC to read:  
Table 2308.9.5  
Header and Girder Spansa,b for Exterior Bearing Walls  
(Maximum Spans for Douglas Fir -Larch, Hem -Fir, Southern Pine, and Spruce -Pine-Fir and Required Number of Jack Studs)  
b. Spans are based on minimum design properties for No. 2 Grade lumber of Douglas fir -larch, hem -fir, and spruce -pine-fir. 
No. 1 or better  grade lumber shall be used for southern pine.  
E. Change the title and footnote "b" of Table 2308.9.6 of the IBC to read:  
Table 2308.9.6  
Header and Girder Spansa,b for Interior Bearing Walls  
(Maximum Spans for Douglas Fir -Larch, Hem -Fir, Southern Pine, and Spruce -Pine-Fir and Required Number of Jack Studs)  
b. Spans are based on minimum design properties for No. 2 Grade lumber of Douglas fir -larch, hem -fir, and spruce -pine-fir. 
No. 1 or better  grade lumber shall be used for southern pine.  
F. Change the indicated rows of Table 2308.10.2(1) of the IBC to read:  
Ceiling Joist 
Spacing  Species and Grade  Dead Load = 5 pounds per square foot  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  
Maximum ceiling joist spans  
(ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) 
12 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  12-11 
12-5 
11–10 
10-1 20–3 
19-6 
18-8 
14-11 26-0 
25-8 
24-7 
18-9 26-0 
26-0 
26-0 
22-9 
16 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  11–9 
11–3 
10-9 
8-9 18-5 
17-8 
16-11 
12-11 24-3 
23–4 
21-7 
16-3 26-0 
26-0 
25-7 
19-9 
19.2 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  11–0 
10-7 
10-2 
8-0 17-4 
16-8 
15-7 
11–9 22-10 
22-0 
19-8 
14-10 26-0 
26-0 
23–5 
18-0 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1857 24 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  10-3 
9-10 
9-3 
7-2 16-1 
15-6 
13-11 
10-6 21-2 
20–5 
17-7 
13-3 26-0 
24-0 
20–11 
16-1 
G. Change the indicated rows of Table 2308.10.2(2) of the IBC to read:  
Ceiling Joist 
Spacing  Species and Grade  Dead Load = 10 pounds per square foot  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  
Maximum ceiling joist spans  
(ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) (ft.-in.) 
12 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  10-3 
9-10 
9-3 
7-2 16-1 
15-6 
13-11 
10-6 21-2 
20–5 
17-7 
13-3 26-0 
24-0 
20–11 
16-1 
16 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  9-4 
8-11 
8-0 
6-2 14-7 
14-0 
12-0 
9-2 19-3 
17-9 
15-3 
11–6 24-7 
20–9 
18-1 
14-0 
19.2 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3 8-9 
8-5 
7-4 
5-8 13-9 
12-9 
11–0 
8-4 18-2 
16-2 
13-11 
10-6 23–1 
18-11 
16-6 
12-9 
24 Southern Pine SS  
Southern Pine #1  
Southern Pine #2  
Southern Pine #3  8-1 
7-8 
6-7 
5-1 12-9 
11–5 
9-10 
7-5 16-10 
14-6 
12-6 
9-5 21-6 
16-11 
14-9 
11–5 
H. Change the indicated rows of Table 2308.10.3(1) of the IBC to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 pounds per square foot  Dead Load = 20 pounds per square foot  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spans  
(ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) 
12 Southern Pine SS  11–3 17-8 23–4 26-0 26-0 11–3 17-8 23–4 26-0 26-0 
Southern Pine #1  10-10 17-0 22-5 26-0 26-0 10-6 15-8 19-10 23–2 26-0 
Southern Pine #2  10-4 15-7 19-8 23–5 26-0 9-0 13-6 17-1 20–3 23–10 
Southern Pine #3  8-0 11–9 14-10 18-0 21-4 6-11 10-2 12-10 15-7 18-6 
16 Southern Pine SS  10-3 16-1 21-2 26-0 26-0 10-3 16-1 21-2 25-7 26-0 
Southern Pine #1  9-10 15-6 19-10 23–2 26-0 9-1 13-7 17-2 20–1 23–10 
Southern Pine #2  9-0 13-6 17-1 20–3 23–10 7-9 11–8 14-9 17-6 20–8 
Southern Pine #3  6-11 10-2 12-10 15-7 18-6 6-0 8-10 11–2 13-6 16-0 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1858  19.2 Southern Pine SS  9-8 15-2 19-11 25-5 26-0 9-8 15-2 19-7 23–4 26-0 
Southern Pine #1  9-3 14-3 18-1 21-2 25-2 8-4 12-4 15-8 18-4 21-9 
Southern Pine #2  8-2 12-3 15-7 18-6 21-9 7-1 10-8 13-6 16-0 18-10 
Southern Pine #3  6-4 9-4 11–9 14-3 16-10 5-6 8-1 10-2 12-4 14-7 
24 Southern Pine SS  
8-11 14-1 18-6 23–8 26-0 8-11 13-10 17-6 20–
10 24-8 
Southern Pine #1  8-7 12-9 16-2 18-11 22-6 7-5 11–1 14-0 16-5 19-6 
Southern Pine #2  7-4 11–0 13-11 16-6 19-6 6-4 9-6 12-1 14-4 16-10 
Southern Pine #3  5-8 8-4 10-6 12-9 15-1 4-11 7-3 9-1 11–0 13-1 
I. Change the indicated rows of Table 2308.10.3(2) of the IBC to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species and Grade  Dead Load = 10 pounds per square foot  Dead Load = 20 pounds per square foot  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spans  
(ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) 
12 Southern Pine SS  10-3 16-1 21-2 26-0 26-0 10-3 16-1 21-2 26-0 26-0 
Southern Pine #1  9-10 15-6 20–5 26-0 26-0 9-10 15-6 19-10 23–2 26-0 
Southern Pine #2  9-5 14-9 19-6 23–5 26-0 9-0 13-6 17-1 20–3 23–10 
Southern Pine #3  8-0 11–9 14-10 18-0 21-4 6-11 10-2 12-10 15-7 18-6 
16 Southern Pine SS  9-4 14-7 19-3 24-7 26-0 9-4 14-7 19-3 24-7 26-0 
Southern Pine #1  8-11 14-1 18-6 23–2 26-0 8-11 13-7 17-2 20–1 23–10 
Southern Pine #2  8-7 13-5 17-1 20–3 23–10 7-9 11–8 14-9 17-6 20–8 
Southern Pine #3  6-11 10-2 12-10 15-7 18-6 6-0 8-10 11–2 13-6 16-0 
19.2 Southern Pine SS  8-9 13-9 18-2 23–1 26-0 8-9 13-9 18-2 23–1 26-0 
Southern Pine #1  8-5 13-3 17-5 21-2 25-2 8-4 12-4 15-8 18-4 21-9 
Southern Pine #2  8-1 12-3 15-7 16-6 21-9 7-1 10-8 13-6 16-0 18-10 
Southern Pine #3  6-4 9-4 11–9 14-3 16-10 5-6 8-1 10-2 12-4 14-7 
24 Southern Pine SS  8-1 12-9 16-10 21-6 26-0 8-1 12-9 16-10 20–10 24-8 
Southern  Pine #1  7-10 12-3 16-2 18-11 22-6 7-6 11–1 14-0 16-5 19-6 
Southern Pine #2  7-4 11–0 13-11 16-6 19-6 6-4 9-6 12-1 14-4 16-10 
Southern Pine #3  5-8 8-4 10-6 12-9 15-1 4-11 7-3 9-1 11–0 13-1 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1859 J. Change the indicated rows of Table 2308.10.3(3) of the IBC to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 pounds per square foot  Dead Load = 20 pounds per square foot  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spans  
(ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) 
12 Southern 
Pine SS  9-10 15-6 20–5 26-0 26-0 9-10 15-6 20–5 25-4 26-0 
Southern 
Pine #1  9-6 14-10 19-0 22-3 26-0 9-0 13-5 17-0 19-11 23–7 
Southern 
Pine #2  8-7 12-11 16-4 19-5 22-10 7-8 11–7 14-8 17-4 20–5 
Southern 
Pine #3  6-7 9-9 12-4 15-0 17-9 5-11 8-9 11–0 13-5 15-10 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  8-11 14-1 18-6 23–8 26-0 8-11 14-1 18-5 21-11 25-11 
Southern 
Pine #1  8-7 13-0 16-6 19-3 22-10 7-10 11–7 14-9 17-3 20–5 
Southern 
Pine #2  7-6 11–2 14-2 16-10 19-10 6-8 10-0 12-8 15-1 17-9 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-9 8-6 10-8 13-0 15-4 5-2 7-7 9-7 11–7 13-9 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  8-5 13-3 17-5 22-3 26-0 8-5 13-3 16-10 20–0 23–7 
Southern 
Pine #1  8-0 11–10 15-1 17-7 20–11 7-1 10-7 13-5 15-9 18-8 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-10 10-2 12-11 15-4 18-1 6-1 9-2 11–7 13-9 16-2 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-3 7-9 9-9 11–10 14-0 4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  7-10 12-3 16-2 20–0 23–7 7-10 11–10 15-0 17-11 21-2 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-1 10-7 13-5 15-9 18-8 6-4 9-6 12-0 14-1 16-8 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-1 9-2 11–7 13-9 16-2 5-5 8-2 10-4 12-3 14-6 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 4-2 6-2 7-10 9-6 11–2 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1860  K. Change the indicated rows of Table 2308.10.3(4) of the IBC to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 pounds per square foot  Dead Load = 20 pounds per square foot  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spans  
(ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) 
12 Southern 
Pine SS  8-4 13-1 17-2 21-11 26-0 8-4 13-1 17-2 21-5 25-3 
Southern 
Pine #1  8-0 12-3 15-6 18-2 21-7 7-7 11–4 14-5 16-10 20–0 
Southern 
Pine #2  7-0 10-6 13-4 15-10 18-8 6-6 9-9 12-4 14-8 17-3 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-5 8-0 10-1 12-3 14-6 5-0 7-5 9-4 11–4 13-5 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  7-6 11–10 15-7 19-11 23–7 7-6 11–10 15-7 18-6 21-10 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-1 10-7 13-5 15-9 18-8 6-7 9-10 12-5 14-7 17-3 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-1 9-2 11–7 13-9 16-2 5-8 8-5 10-9 12-9 15-0 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 4-4 6-5 8-1 9-10 11–7 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  7-1 11–2 14-8 18-3 21-7 7-1 11–2 14-2 16-11 20–0 
Southern 
Pine #1  6-6 9-8 12-3 14-4 17-1 6-0 9-0 11–4 13-4 15-9 
Southern 
Pine #2  5-7 8-4 10-7 12-6 14-9 5-2 7-9 9-9 11–7 13-8 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-3 6-4 8-0 9-8 11–5 4-0 5-10 7-4 8-11 10-7 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  6-7 10-4 13-8 16-4 19-3 6-7 10-0 12-8 15-2 17-10 
Southern 
Pine #1  5-10 8-8 11–0 12-10 15-3 5-5 8-0 10-2 11–11 14-1 
Southern 
Pine #2  5-0 7-5 9-5 11–3 13-2 4-7 6-11 8-9 10-5 12-3 
Southern 
Pine #3  3-10 5-8 7-1 8-8 10-3 3-6 5-3 6-7 8-0 9-6 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1861 L. Change the indicated rows of Table 2308.10.3(5) of the IBC to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 pounds per square foot  Dead Load = 20 pounds per square foot  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spans  
(ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) 
12 Southern 
Pine SS  8-11 14-1 18-6 23–8 26-0 8-11 14-1 18-6 23–8 26-0 
Southern 
Pine #1  8-7 13-6 17-10 22-3 26-0 8-7 13-5 17-0 19-11 23–7 
Southern 
Pine #2  8-3 12-11 16-4 19-5 22-10 7-8 11–7 14-8 17-4 20–5 
Southern 
Pine #3  6-7 9-9 12-4 15-0 17-9 5-11 8-9 11–0 13-5 15-10 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  8-1 12-9 16-10 21-6 26-0 8-1 12-9 16-10 21-6 25-11 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-10 12-3 16-2 19-3 22-10 7-10 11–7 14-9 17-3 20–5 
Southern 
Pine #2  7-6 11–2 14-2 16-10 19-10 6-8 10-0 12-8 15-1 17-9 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-9 8-6 10-8 13-0 15-4 5-2 7-7 9-7 11–7 13-9 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  7-8 12-0 15-10 20–2 24-7 7-8 12-0 15-10 20–0 23–7 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-4 11–7 15-1 17-7 20–11 7-1 10-7 13-5 15-9 18-8 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-10 10-2 12-11 15-4 18-1 6-1 9-2 11–7 13-9 16-2 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-3 7-9 9-9 11–10 14-0 4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  7-1 11–2 14-8 18-9 22-10 7-1 11–2 14-8 17-11 21-2 
Southern 
Pine #1  6-10 10-7 13-5 15-9 18-8 6-4 9-6 12-0 14-1 16-8 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-1 9-2 11–7 13-9 16-2 5-5 8-2 10-4 12-3 14-6 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 4-2 6-2 7-10 9-6 11–2 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1862  M. Change the indicated rows of Table 2308.10.3(6) of the IBC to read:  
Rafter 
Spacing 
(inches)  Species and 
Grade  Dead Load = 10 pounds per square foot  Dead Load = 20 pounds per square foot  
2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  2x4 2x6 2x8 2x10  2x12  
Maximum rafter spans  
(ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) (ft.-
in.) 
12 Southern 
Pine SS  7-6 11–0 15-7 19-11 24-3 7-6 11–10 15-7 19-11 24-3 
Southern 
Pine #1  7-3 11–5 15-0 18-2 21-7 7-3 11–4 14-5 16-10 20–0 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-11 10-6 13-4 15-10 18-8 6-6 9-9 12-4 14-8 17-3 
Southern 
Pine #3  5-5 8-0 10-1 12-3 14-6 5-0 7-5 9-4 11–4 13-5 
16 Southern 
Pine SS  6-10 10-9 14-2 18-1 22-0 6-10 10-9 14-2 18-1 21-10 
Southern 
Pine #1  6-7 10-4 13-5 15-9 18-8 6-7 9-10 12-5 14-7 17-3 
Southern 
Pine #2  6-1 9-2 11–7 13-9 16-2 5-8 8-5 10-9 12-9 15-0 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-8 6-11 8-9 10-7 12-6 4-4 6-5 8-1 9-10 11–7 
19.2 Southern 
Pine SS  6-5 10-2 13-4 17-0 20–9 6-5 10-2 13-4 16-11 20–0 
Southern 
Pine #1  6-2 9-8 12-3 14-4 17-1 6-0 9-0 11–4 13-4 15-9 
Southern 
Pine #2  5-7 8-4 10-7 12-6 14-9 5-2 7-9 9-9 11–7 13-8 
Southern 
Pine #3  4-3 6-4 8-0 9-8 11–5 4-0 5-10 7-4 8-11 10-7 
24 Southern 
Pine SS  6-0 9-5 12-5 15-10 19-3 6-0 9-5 12-5 15-2 17-10 
Southern 
Pine #1  5-9 8-8 11–0 12-10 15-3 5-5 8-0 10-2 11–
11 14-1 
Southern 
Pine #2  5-0 7-5 9-5 11–3 13-2 4-7 6-11 8-9 10-5 12-3 
Southern 
Pine #3  3-10 5-8 7-1 8-8 10-3 3-6 5-3 6-7 8-0 9-6 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1863 B. Change Table 2308.4.1.1(1) of the IBC to read:  
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1864   
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1865 
 
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1866  
 
 
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1867 
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1868  
 
 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1869 C. Change Table 2308.4.1.1(2) of the IBC to read:  
Table 2308.4.1.1(2)  
Header and Girder Spansa, b for Interior Bearing Walls  
(Maximum spans for Douglas Fir -Larch, Hem -Fir, Southern Pine, and Spruce -Pine-Firb and required number of 
jack studs)  
Headers and 
Girders 
Supporti ng Size Building Widthc(feet)  
12 24 36 
Spane NJd Spane NJd Spane NJd 
One floor 
only 2-2 x 4  4-1 1 2-10 1 2-4 1 
2-2 x 6  6-1 1 4-4 1 3-6 1 
2-2 x 8  7-9 1 5-5 1 4-5 2 
2-2 x 10  9-2 1 6-6 2 5-3 2 
2-2 x 12  10-9 1 7-7 2 6-3 2 
3-2 x 8  9-8 1 6-10 1 5-7 1 
3-2 x 10  11-5 1 8-1 1 6-7 2 
3-2 x 12  13-6 1 9-6 2 7-9 2 
4-2 x 8  11-2 1 7-11 1 6-5 1 
4-2 x 10  13-3 1 9-4 1 7-8 1 
4-2 x 12  15-7 1 11-0 1 9-0 2 
Two floors  2-2 x 4  2-7 1 1-11 1 1-7 1 
2-2 x 6  3-11 1 2-11 2 2-5 2 
2-2 x 8  5-0 1 3-8 2 3-1 2 
2-2 x 10  5-11 2 4-4 2 3-7 2 
2-2 x 12  6-11 2 5-2 2 4-3 3 
3-2 x 8  6-3 1 4-7 2 3-10 2 
3-2 x 10  7-5 1 5-6 2 4-6 2 
3-2 x 12  8-8 2 6-5 2 5-4 2 
4-2 x 8  7-2 1 5-4 1 4-5 2 
4-2 x 10  8-6 1 6-4 2 5-3 2 
4-2 x 12  10-1 1 7-5 2 6-2 2 
a. Spans are given in feet and inches.  
b. Spans are based on the minimum design properties for No. 2 grade lumber of Douglas Fir -Larch, Hem -Fir, Southern Pine, 
and Spruce -Pine Fir.  
c. Building width is measured perpendicular to the ridge. For widths between those shown, spans a re permitted to be 
interpolated.  
d. NJ - Number of jack studs required to support each end. Where the number of required jack studs equals one, the header is 
permitted to be supported by an approved framing anchor attached to the full -height wall stud and to the header.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1870  e. Spans are calculated assuming the top of the header or girder is laterally braced by perpendicular framing. Where the top of 
the header or girder is not laterally braced (e.g., cripple studs bearing on the header), tabulated spans for hea ders consisting of 
2x8, 2x10, or 2x12 sizes shall be multiplied by 0.70 or the header shall be designed.  
13VAC5 -63-298. Chapter 26 Plastic.  
Change Section 2603.5.5 of the IBC to read:  
2603.5.5 Vertical and lateral fire propagation. Exterior wall 
assemblies shall be tested in accordance with, and comply 
with, acceptance criteria of NFPA 285. Where 
noncombustible materials or combustible materials 
permitted by Sections 603, 803, 806 or 14 06 differ from 
assembly to assembly or within an assembly, multiple tests 
shall not be required.  
Exception  Exceptions : Exterior wall assemblies are not 
required to be tested in accordance with, and comply with, 
acceptance criteria of NFPA 285 where any of  the 
following conditions are met:   
1. One -story buildings [  complying with Section 
2603.4.1.4  where the exterior wall covering is 
noncombustible  ].  
2. Wall assemblies where the foam plastic insulation is 
covered on each face by a minimum of  not less than  1-
inch (25 mm) thickness of masonry or concrete 
complying with either  and meeting one  of the following:  
2.1. There is no air space between the insulation and the 
concrete or masonry ; or. 
2.2. The insulation has a flame spread index of not more 
than 25 as  determined in accordance with ASTM E 84 or 
UL 723 and the maximum air space between the 
insulation and the concrete or masonry is not more than 1 
inch (25 mm).  
3. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section  903.3.1.1.  
13VAC5 -63-300. Chapter 27 Electrical.  
A. Change Section 2701.1 of the IBC to read:  
2701.1 Scope. This chapter governs the electrical 
components, equipment and systems used in buildings and 
structures covered by this code. Electrical componen ts, 
equipment and systems shall be designed and constructed 
in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 
70.  
B. Add Section 2701.1.1 to the IBC to read:  
2701.1.1 Changes to NFPA 70. The following [  change  
changes  ] shall be made to NFPA 70:  
1. Change Sections 334.10(2) and 334.10(3) of NFPA 70 
to read:  (2) Multifamily dwellings not exceeding four floors 
above grade and multifamily dwellings of any height 
permitted to be of Types III, IV and V construction 
except in any case as prohibited in 334.12.  
(3) Other structures not exceeding four floors above 
grade and other structures of any height permitted to be 
of Types III, IV and V construction except in any case as 
prohibited in 334.12. In structures exceeding four floors 
above grade, cables s hall be concealed within walls, 
floors or ceilings that provide a thermal barrier of 
material that has at least a 15 -minute finish rating as 
identified in listings of fire -rated assemblies.  
For the purpose of Items 2 and 3 above, the first floor of 
a building shall be that floor that has 50% or more of the 
exterior wall surface area level with or above finished 
grade. One additional level that is the first level and not 
designed for human hab itation and used only for vehicle 
parking, storage or similar use shall be permitted.  
2. Change Exception 2 to  Section 700.12(F)  
700.12(F)(2)(6)  of NFPA 70 to read:  
Exception No. 2  (6) Where the normal power branch 
circuits that supply luminaires providi ng illumination 
immediately on the inside and outside of exit doors are 
supplied by the same service or feeder, the remote heads 
providing emergency illumination for the exterior of an 
exit door shall be permitted to be supplied by the unit 
equipment servi ng the area immediately inside the exit 
door.  
C. Add Section 2701.1.2 to the IBC to read:  
2701.1.2 Temporary connection to dwelling units. The 
building official shall give permission to energize the 
electrical service equipment of a one -family or two -family 
dwelling unit when all of the following requirements have 
been approved:  
1. The service wiring and equipment, including the meter 
socket enclosure, shall be installed and the service wiring 
terminated.  
2. The grounding electrode system shall be insta lled and 
terminated.  
3. At least one receptacle outlet on a ground fault 
protected circuit shall be installed and the circuit wiring 
terminated.  
4. Service equipment covers shall be installed.  
5. The building roof covering shall be installed.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1871 6. Tempor ary electrical service equipment shall be 
suitable for wet locations unless the interior is dry and 
protected from the weather.  
D. Add Section 2701.1.3 to the IBC to read:  
2701.1.3 Assisted living facility generator requirements. 
Generators installed to c omply with regulations for assisted 
living facilities licensed by the Virginia Department of 
Social Services shall be permitted to be optional standby 
systems.  
E. Change Section 2702.2.17 of the IBC to read:  
2702.2.17 Group I -2 and I -3 occupancies. Emergen cy 
power shall be provided in accordance with Section 407.11  
407.10  for Group I -2 occupancies licensed by the Virginia 
Department of Health as a hospital, nursing or hospice 
facility. Emergency power shall be provided for doors in 
Group I -3 occupancies in accordance with Section 408.4.2.  
13VAC5 -63-310. Chapter 28 Mechanical systems.  
A. Change Section 2801.1 of the IBC to read:  
2801.1 Scope. Mechanical appliances, equipment and 
systems shall be constructed and installed in accordance 
with this chapter, th e IMC and the IFGC. Masonry 
chimneys, fireplaces and barbecues shall comply with the 
IMC and Chapter 21 of this code.  
Exception: This code shall not govern the construction of 
water heaters, boilers and pressure vessels to the extent 
which they are regula ted by the Virginia Boiler and 
Pressure Vessel Regulations (16VAC25 -50). However, the 
building official may require the owner of a structure to 
submit documentation to substantiate compliance with 
those regulations.  
B. Add Section 2801.1.1 to the IBC to r ead:  
2801.1.1 Required heating in dwelling units. Heating 
facilities shall be required in every dwelling unit or portion 
thereof which is to be rented, leased or let on terms, either 
expressed or implied, to furnish heat to the occupants 
thereof. The heat ing facilities shall be capable of 
maintaining the room temperature at 65°F (18°C) during 
the period from October 15 to May 1 during the hours 
between 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. of each day and not less 
than 60°F (16°C) during other hours when measured at a 
point three feet (914 mm) above the floor and three feet 
(914 mm) from the exterior walls. The capability of the 
heating system shall be based on the outside design 
temperature required for the locality by this code.  
C. Add Section 2801.1.2 to the IBC to read:  
2801.1.2 Required heating in nonresidential structures. 
Heating facilities shall be required in every enclosed 
occupied space in nonresidential structures. The heating 
facilities shall be capable of producing sufficient heat during the period from O ctober 1 to May 15 to maintain a 
temperature of not less than 65°F (18°C) during all 
working hours. The required room temperature shall be 
measured at a point three feet (914 mm) above the floor 
and three feet (914 mm) from the exterior walls.  
Processing,  storage and operation areas that require cooling 
or special temperature conditions and areas in which 
persons are primarily engaged in vigorous physical 
activities are exempt from these requirements.  
D. Add Section 2801.1.3 to the IBC to read:  
2801.1.3 Changes to the IMC. The following changes shall 
be made to the IMC:  
1. Add the following definition to Section 202 of the IMC 
to read:  
Pollution control unit. Manufactured equipment that is 
installed in a grease exhaust duct system for the purpose 
of extracting smoke, grease particles, and odors from the 
exhaust flow by means of a series of filters.  
2. [ Change Section 401.2 of the IMC to read:  
401.2 Ventilation required.  Every occupied space shall 
be ventilated by natural means in accordance with 
Section 402 or by mechanical means in accordance with 
Section 403. Group R dwelling unit units shall be 
ventilated by mechanical means in accordance with 
Section 403. Ambulatory care facilities and Group I -2 
occupancies shall be ventilated by mechanical means in 
accordance with Section 407.  
3. ] Change Section 403.3  403.3.1.1  of the IMC to read:  
403.3  403.3.1.1  Outdoor airflow rate. Ventilation 
systems shall be designed to have the capacity to supply 
the minimum outdoor airflow rate determined in 
accordance wi th this section. In each occupiable space, 
the ventilation system shall be designed to deliver the 
required rate of outdoor airflow to the breathing zone.  
The occupant load utilized for design of the ventilation 
system shall not be less than the number det ermined from 
the estimated maximum occupant load rate indicated in 
Table 403.3  403.3.1.1 . Ventilation rates for occupancies 
not represented in Table 403.3  403.3.1.1  shall be those 
for a listed occupancy classification that is most similar 
in terms of occup ant density, activities and building 
construction; or shall be determined by an approved 
engineering analysis. The ventilation system shall be 
designed to supply the required rate of ventilation air 
continuously during the period the building is occupied, 
except as otherwise stated in other provisions of the code.  
With the exception of smoking lounges and other 
designated areas where smoking is permitted, the 
ventilation rates in Table 403.3  403.3.1.1  are based on 
the absence of smoking in occupiable space s.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1872  Exception: The occupant load is not required to be 
determined based on the estimated maximum occupant 
load rate indicated in Table 403.3  403.3.1.1  where 
approved statistical data document the accuracy of an 
alternate anticipated occupant density.  2. [ 3. 4. ] Add [  and change  ] the following areas [  to in ] 
Table 403.3  403.3.1.1  of the IMC [  in the occupancy 
classifications shown  to read  ]:  
OCCUPANCY 
CLASSIFICATION  Occupant Density 
#/1000 ft2 a People Outdoor 
Airflow Rate in 
Breathing  Zone,   
Rp cfm/person  Area Outdoor 
Airflow Rate in 
Breathing Zone, 
Ra cfm/ft2a Exhaust 
Airflow Rate  
Cfm/ft2a 
Food and beverage service          
Bars or cocktail lounges 
designated as an area 
where smoking is 
permittedb 100 30 -- -- 
Cafeteria or fast food  
designated as an area 
where smoking is 
permittedb 100 20 -- -- 
Dining rooms designated 
as an area where smoking 
is permittedb 70 20 -- -- 
Public spaces          
Lounges designated as an 
area where smoking is 
permittedb 100 30 -- -- 
[ 4. 5. ] Change Section 504.8.2 of the IMC to read:  
504.8.2 Duct installation. Exhaust ducts shall be 
supported at 4 -foot (1219 mm) intervals and secured in 
place. The insert end of the duct shall extend into the 
adjoining duct or fitting in the direction of airflow. Ducts 
shall not be joined with screws or similar fasteners that 
protrude into the inside of the duct.  
3. [ 5. 6. ] Change Section 505.1 of the IMC to read:  
505.1 Domestic systems. Where domestic range hoods 
and domestic appliances equipped with d owndraft 
exhaust are provided, such hoods and appliances shall 
discharge to the outdoors through sheet metal ducts 
constructed of galvanized steel, stainless steel, 
aluminum, or copper. Such ducts shall have smooth inner 
walls, shall be air tight, shall be  equipped with a 
backdraft damper, and shall be independent of all other 
exhaust systems.  
Exceptions:  
1. In Group R buildings, where installed in accordance 
with the manufacturer's installation instructions and 
where mechanical or natural ventilation is otherwise 
provided in accordance with Chapter 4, listed and labeled ductless range hoods shall not be required to discharge to 
the outdoors.  
2. Ducts for domestic kitchen cooking appliances 
equipped with downdraft exhaust systems shall be 
permitted to be constructed of Schedule 40 PVC pipe and 
fittings provided that the installation complies with all of 
the following:  
2.1. The PVC duct shall be installed under a concrete 
slab poured on grade.  
2.2. The underfloor trench in which the PVC duct is 
installed shall be completely backfilled with sand or 
gravel.  
2.3. The PVC duct shall extend not more than 1 inch (25 
mm) above the indoor concrete floor surface.  
2.4. The PVC duct shall extend not more than 1 inch (25 
mm) above grade outside of the building.  
2.5. The PVC duct shall be solvent cemented.  
4. Add  [ 6. 7. ] Change  Section 505.3  505.4  to the IMC to 
read:  
505.3  505.4  Other than Group R. In other than Group R 
occupancies, where electric domestic cooking appliances 
are utilized for domestic purposes, su ch appliances shall Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1873 be provided with domestic range hoods. Hoods and 
exhaust systems for such electric domestic cooking 
appliances shall be in accordance with Sections 505.1 
and 505.2. In other than Group R occupancies, where 
fuel-fired domestic cooking ap pliances are utilized for 
domestic purposes, a Type I or Type II hood shall be 
provided as required for the type of appliances and 
processes in accordance with Section 507.2  507.1 .  
5. Change Section 507.2.3 of the IMC to read:  
507.2.3 Domestic cooking appliances used for 
commercial purposes. Domestic cooking appliances 
utilized for commercial purposes shall be provided with a 
Type I or Type II hood as required for the type of 
appliances and processes in accordance with Sections 
507.2, 507.2.1, and 507.2.2. Domestic cooking 
appliances utilized for domestic purposes shall comply 
with Section 505.  
6. Change Section 908.5 of the IMC to read:  
908.5 Water supply. Cooling towers, evaporative coolers, 
and fluid coolers shall be provide d with an approved 
water supply and sized for peak demand. The quality of 
the water shall be provided in accordance the equipment 
manufacturer's recommendations. The piping system and 
protection of the potable water supply shall be installed 
as required by  the IPC.  
7. Change Item 4 of Section 928.1 of the IMC to read:  
4. Be provided with an approved water supply and sized 
for peak demand. The quality of the water shall be 
provided in accordance the equipment manufacturer's 
recommendations. The piping syst em and protection of 
the potable water supply shall be installed as required by 
the IPC.  
[ 7. 8. ] Change Section 506.5 of the IMC to read:  
506.5 Exhaust equipment. Exhaust equipment, including 
fans and grease reservoirs, shall comply with Sections 
506.5. 1 through 506.5.6 and shall be of an approved 
design or shall be listed for the application.  
[ 8. 9. ]  Add Section 506.5.6 to the IMC to read:  
505.5.6 Pollution control units. The installation of 
pollution control units shall be in accordance with the 
manufacturer's installation instructions and all of the 
following:  
1. Pollution control units shall be listed and labeled in 
accordance with UL 1978.  
2. Fans serving pollution control units shall be listed and 
labeled in accordance with UL 762.  
3. Pollution c ontrol units shall be mounted and secured in 
accordance with the manufacturer's installation 
instructions and the International Building Code.  4. Pollution control units located indoors shall be listed 
and labeled for such use. Where enclosed duct systems,  
as required by Section 506.3.11, are connected to a 
pollution control unit, such unit shall be located in a 
room or space having the same fire -resistance rating as 
the duct enclosure. Access shall be provided for serving 
and cleaning of the unit. The spac e or enclosure shall be 
ventilated in accordance with the manufacturer's 
installation instructions.  
5. A clearance of not less than 18 inches (457 mm) shall 
be maintained between the pollution control unit and 
combustible material.  
6. Roof mounted pollutio n control units shall be listed for 
exterior installation and shall be mounted not less than 18 
inches (457 mm) above the roof.  
7. Exhaust outlets for pollution control units shall be in 
accordance with Section 506.3.13.  
8. An airflow differential pressure  control shall be 
provided to monitor the pressure drop across the filter 
sections of a pollution control unit. When the airflow is 
reduced below the design velocity, the airflow 
differential pressure control shall activate a visual alarm 
located in the ar ea where cooking operations occur.  
9. Pollution control units shall be provided with a factory 
installed fire suppression system.  
10. Service space shall be provided in accordance with 
the manufacturer's instructions for the pollution control 
unit and the requirements of Section 306.  
11. Wash down drains shall discharge through a grease 
interceptor and shall be sized for the flow. Drains shall 
be sealed with a trap or other approved means to prevent 
air bypass. Where a trap is utilized it shall have a seal 
depth that accounts for the system pressurization and 
evaporation between cleanings.  
12. Protection from freezing shall be provided for the 
water supply and fire suppression systems where such 
systems are subject to freezing.  
13. Duct connections to pollut ion control units shall be in 
accordance with Section 506.3.2.3. Where water splash 
or carryover can occur in the transition duct as a result of 
a washing operation, the transition duct shall slope 
downward toward the cabinet drain pan for a length not 
less than 18 inches (457 mm). Ducts shall transition to 
the full size of the unit inlet and outlet openings.  
14.  Extra heavy duty appliance exhaust systems shall not 
be connected to pollution control units except where such 
units are specifically designed an d listed for use with 
solid fuels.  
15. Pollution control units shall be maintained in 
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1874  [ 9. 10. ] Change Section 607.5.5 of the IMC to read:  
607.5.5 Shaft enclosures. Shaft enclosures that are 
permitted to be  penetrated by ducts and air transfer 
openings shall be protected with approved fire and smoke 
dampers installed in accordance with their listing.  
Exceptions:  
1. Fire and smoke dampers are not required where steel 
exhaust subducts extend at least 22 inches  (559 mm) 
vertically in exhaust shafts, provided there is a 
continuous airflow upward to the outside.  
2. Fire dampers are not required where penetrations are 
tested in accordance with ASTM E119 as part of the fire -
resistance -rated assembly.  
3. Fire and smo ke dampers are not required where ducts 
are used as part of an approved smoke control system in 
accordance with Section 909 of the International 
Building Code.  
4. Fire and smoke dampers are not required where the 
penetrations are in parking garage exhaust or supply 
shafts that are separated from other building shafts by not 
less than two -hour fire -resistance -rated construction.  
5. Smoke dampers are not required where the building is 
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system 
in accordance with S ection 903.3.1.1 of the International 
Building Code.  
[ 10. 11. ] Add Section 607.6.2.2 to the IMC to read:  
607.6.2.2 Equipment shutdown. Where ceiling radiation 
dampers are listed as static dampers, the HVAC 
equipment shall be effectively shut down to stop  the 
airflow prior to the damper closing using one of the 
following methods:  
1. A duct detector installed in the return duct.  
2. An area smoke detector interlocked with the HVAC 
equipment.  
3. A listed heat sensor installed in the return duct.  
E. Add Sectio n 2801.1.4 to the IBC to read:  
2801.1.4 Changes to the IFGC. The following changes 
shall be made to the IFGC:  
1. Change Section 301.1 of the IFGC to read:  
301.1 Scope. This code shall apply to the installation of 
fuel gas piping systems, fuel gas utiliz ation equipment, 
and related accessories as follows:  
1. Coverage of piping systems shall extend from the 
point of delivery to the connections with gas utilization 
equipment. (See "point of delivery.")  2. Systems with an operating pressure of 125 psig (86 2 
kPa gauge) or less.  
Piping systems for gas -air mixtures within the flammable 
range with an operating pressure of 10 psig (69 kPa 
gauge) or less.  
LP-Gas piping systems with an operating pressure of 20 
psig (140 kPa gauge) or less.  
3. Piping systems req uirements shall include design, 
materials, components, fabrication, assembly, 
installation, testing and inspection.  
4. Requirements for gas utilization equipment and related 
accessories shall include installation, combustion and 
ventilation air and ventin g.  
This code shall not apply to the following:  
1. Portable LP -Gas equipment of all types that are not 
connected to a fixed fuel piping system.  
2. Installation of farm equipment such as brooders, 
dehydrators, dryers, and irrigation equipment.  
3. Raw mat erial (feedstock) applications except for 
piping to special atmosphere generators.  
4. Oxygen -fuel gas cutting and welding systems.  
5. Industrial gas applications using gases such as 
acetylene and acetylenic compounds, hydrogen, 
ammonia, carbon monoxide, oxygen, and nitrogen.  
6. Petroleum refineries, pipeline compressor or pumping 
stations, loading terminals, compounding plants, refinery 
tank farms, and natural gas processing plants.  
7. Integrated chemical plants or portions of such plants 
where flammabl e or combustible liquids or gases are 
produced by chemical reactions or used in chemical 
reactions.  
8. LP -Gas installations at utility gas plants.  
9. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) installations.  
10. Fuel gas piping in power and atomic energy plants.  
11. Proprietary items of equipment, apparatus, or 
instruments such as gas generating sets, compressors, and 
calorimeters.  
12. LP -Gas equipment for vaporization, gas mixing, and 
gas manufacturing.  
13. Temporary LP -Gas piping for buildings under 
constructi on or renovation that is not to become part of 
the permanent piping system.  
14. Installation of LP -Gas systems for railroad switch 
heating.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1875 15. Installation of LP -Gas and compressed natural gas 
(CNG) systems on vehicles.  
16. Except as provided in Sectio n 401.1.1, gas piping, 
meters, gas pressure regulators, and other appurtenances 
used by the serving gas supplier in the distribution of gas, 
other than undiluted LP -Gas.  
17. Building design and construction, except as specified 
herein.  
2. Change Sections  310.1 and 310.1.1 of the IFGC to read:  
310.1 Pipe and tubing. Each above -group portion of a gas 
piping system that is likely to become energized shall be 
electrically continuous and bonded to an effective 
ground -fault current path. Gas piping shall be con sidered 
to be bonded where it is connected to appliances that are 
connected to the equipment grounding conductor of the 
circuit supplying that appliance. Corrugated stainless 
steel tubing (CSST) piping systems listed with an arc 
resistant jacket or coating  system in accordance with 
ANSI LC 1/CSA 6.26 shall comply with this section. 
Where any CSST segments of a piping system are not 
listed with an arc resistant jacket or coating system in 
accordance with ANSI LC 1/CSA 6.26, Section 310.1.1 
shall apply.  
310.1 .1 CSST without arc resistant jacket or coating 
system. CSST gas piping systems and piping systems 
containing one or more segments of CSST not listed with 
an arc resistant jacket or coating system in accordance 
with ANSI LC 1/CSA 6.26 shall be bonded to th e 
electrical service grounding electrode system or, where 
provided, the lightning protection electrode system and 
shall comply with Sections 310.1.1.1 through 310.1.1.5.  
3. Add Section 404.11.3 to the IFGC to read:  
404.11.3 Coating application. Joints in gas piping 
systems shall not be coated prior to testing and approval.  
4. Change Section 614.8.2 of the IFGC to read:  
614.8.2 Duct installation. Exhaust ducts shall be 
supported at 4 -foot (1219 mm) intervals and secured in 
place. The insert end of the duct  shall extend into the 
adjoining duct or fitting in the direction of airflow. Ducts 
shall not be joined with screws or similar fasteners that 
protrude into the inside of the duct.  
5. Change the following referenced standard in Chapter 8 
of the IFGC:  
Standa rd 
Reference 
Number  Title  Referenced in 
Code Section 
Number  
ANSI LC1/CSA 
6.26-14 Fuel Gas Piping 
Systems Using 
Corrugated Stainless 
Steel Tubing (CSST)  310.1, 310.1.1, 
403.5.4  13VAC5 -63-320. Chapter 29 Plumbing systems.  
A. Change Section 2901.1 of the IBC to read:  
2901.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter and the IPC 
shall govern the design and installation of all plumbing 
systems and equipment, except that as provided for in 
Section [  103.10  103.5  ] for functional de sign, water 
supply sources and sewage disposal systems are regulated 
and approved by the Virginia Department of Health and 
the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. The 
approval of pumping and electrical equipment associated 
with such water supply sources and sewage disposal 
systems shall, however, be the responsibility of the 
building official.  
Note: See also the Memorandum of Agreement in the 
"Related Laws Package," which is available from DHCD.  
B. Add Section 2901.1.1 to the IBC to read:  
2901. 1.1 Changes to the IPC. The following changes shall 
be made to the IPC:  
1. Add the following definitions to the IPC to read:  
Nonpotable fixtures and outlets. Fixtures and outlets that 
are not dependent on potable water for the safe operation 
to perform t heir intended use. Such fixtures and outlets 
may include, but are not limited to water closets, urinals, 
irrigation, mechanical equipment, and hose connections 
to perform operations, such as vehicle washing and lawn 
maintenance.  
Nonpotable water systems. Water systems for the 
collection, treatment, storage, distribution, and use or 
reuse of nonpotable water. Nonpotable systems include 
reclaimed water, rainwater, and gray water systems.  
Rainwater. Natural precipitation, including snow melt, 
from roof surfaces only.  
Reclaimed water. Reclaimed water means water resulting 
from the treatment of domestic, municipal, or industrial 
wastewater that is suitable for a water reuse that would 
not otherwise occur. Specifically excluded from th is 
definition is "gray water."  
Stormwater. Precipitation that is discharged across the 
land surface or through conveyances to one or more 
waterways and that may include stormwater runoff, snow 
melt runoff, and surface runoff and drainage.  
2. Change the f ollowing definition  definitions  in the IPC to 
read:  
Gray water. Water discharged from lavatories, bathtubs, 
showers, clothes washers, and laundry trays.  
Rainwater. Natural precipitation, including snow melt, 
from roof surfaces only.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1876  Reclaimed water. Recl aimed water means water resulting 
from the treatment of domestic, municipal, or industrial 
wastewater that is suitable for a water reuse that would 
not otherwise occur. Specifically excluded from this 
definition is "gray water."  
3. Change the exception to Section 301.3 of the IPC to 
read:  
Exception: Bathtubs, showers, lavatories, clothes washers 
and laundry trays shall not be required to discharge to the 
sanitary drainage system where such fixtures discharge to 
an approved nonpotable gray water system in a ccordance 
with the applicable provisions of Chapter 13.  
4. Delete Sections 311 and 311.1 of the IPC.  
5. Modify the Group A -5 "Description" category of Table 
403.1 of the IPC to read:  
  Stadiums, amusement parks, pools, bleachers, and 
grandstands for out door sporting events and 
activities [  h f ]  
6. Add footnote "h" "f" to Table 403.1 of the IPC to read:  
h. f. The occupant load for pools shall be in accordance 
with the "Skating rinks, swimming pools" category of 
Table 1004.1.2 of the IBC.  
7. Add Section 403.1.3 and Table 403.1.3 to the IPC to 
read:  
403.1.3 Marina fixtures. Notwithstanding any provision 
to the contrary, plumbing fixtures shall be provided for 
marinas in the minimum number shown in Table 403.1.3. 
Fixtures shall be located wi thin 500 feet walking distance 
from the shore end of any dock they serve. Separate 
facilities shall be provided for each sex with an equal 
number of fixtures of each type in each facility, except 
that separate facilities are not required where the number 
of slips is less than 25. Urinals may be substituted for up 
to 50% of water closets.  
Table 403.1.3  
Minimum Number of Required Plumbing Fixtures for 
Marinas  
Number 
of Slips  Plumbing Fixtures  
Water 
Closets  Lavatories  Showers  
1 - 24 1 1 1 
25 - 49 4 4 2 
50 - 99 6 4 2 
100 - 149 8 6 4 
150 - 199 10 8 4 200 - 249 12 10 6 
250 or 
greater  Two additional fixtures of each type for 
each 100 additional slips.  
8. Change Section 403.3.3 of the IPC to read:  
403.3.3 Location of toilet facilities in occupancies other 
than malls. In occupancies other than covered and open 
mall buildings, the required public and employee toilet 
facilities shall be located not more than one story above 
or below the space required to be provided with toilet 
facilities, and the path of travel to such facilities shall not 
exceed a distance of 500 feet (152 m).  
Exceptions:  
1. The location and maximum travel  distances of travel  to 
required employee facilities in factory and industrial 
occupancies are permitted to exceed that required by this 
section, provided that the location and maximum travel 
distance are approved.  
2. The location and maximum travel  distances of travel  to 
the required public facilities located on cemetery 
property are permitted to exceed that required by this 
section, provided that the location and maximum travel 
distance are located on the same property and approved.  
9. Change Section 405.3.2 of the IPC to read:  
405.3.2 Public lavatories. In employee and public toilet 
rooms, the required lavatory shall be located in the same 
room as the required water closet.  
Exception: In educational use occupancies, the required 
lavatory shall be permitted to be located adjacent to the 
room or space containing the water closet provided that 
not more than one operational door is between the water 
closet and the lavatory.  
10. Add Section 602.2.1 to the IPC to read:  
602.2.1 Nonpotable fixtures and outlets. Nonpotable 
water  shall be permitted to serve nonpotable type fixtures 
and outlets in accordance with Chapter 13.  
11. Add Section 603.3 to the IPC to read:  
603.3 Tracer wire. Nonmetallic water service piping that 
connects to public systems shall be locatable. An 
insulated  copper tracer wire, 18 AWG minimum in size 
and suitable for direct burial or an equivalent product, 
shall be utilized. The wire shall be installed in the same 
trench as the water service piping and within 12 inches 
(305 mm) of the pipe and shall be instal led to within five 
feet (1524 mm) of the building wall to the point where 
the building water service pipe intersects with the public 
water supply. At a minimum, one end of the wire shall 
terminate above grade to provide access to the wire in a Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1877 location tha t is resistant to physical damage, such as with 
a meter vault or at the building wall.  
12. Change Section 608.16.10 of the IPC to read:  
608.16.10 Coffee machines and noncarbonated beverage 
dispensers. The water supply connection to coffee 
machines and non carbonated beverage dispensers shall 
be protected against backflow by a backflow preventer 
conforming to ASSE 1022 or 1024, or by an air gap.  
12. 13. Delete Section 701.9  701.8  of the IPC.  
13. 14. Add Section 703.6 to  703.7 to  the IPC to read:  
703.6  703.7 Tracer wire. Nonmetallic sanitary sewer 
piping that discharges to public systems shall be 
locatable. An insulated copper tracer wire, 18 AWG 
minimum in size and suitable for direct burial or an 
equivalent product, shall be utilized. The wire shall be 
installed in the same trench as the sewer within 12 inches 
(305 mm) of the pipe and shall be installed to within five 
feet (1524 mm) of the building wall to the point where 
the building sewer intersects with the public system. At a minimum, one end of the wir e shall terminate above 
grade in an accessible location that is resistant to physical 
damage, such as with a cleanout or at the building wall.  
14. 15. Add an exception to Section 1101.2 of the IPC to 
read:  
Exception. Rainwater nonpotable water systems sh all be 
permitted in accordance with Chapter 13.  
15. Change the title of Chapter 13 of the IPC to 
"Nonpotable Water Systems."  
[ 16. Change Section 1106.2 of the IPC to read:  
1106.2 Vertical conductors and leaders. Vertical 
conductors and leaders shall be s ized for the maximum 
projected roof area, in accordance with Tables 1106.2(1) 
and 1106.2(2).  
17. Delete Table 1106.2 of the IPC and add Tables 
1106.2.(1) and 1106.2(2) to the IPC to read:  
Table 1106.2(1)  
Size of Circular Vertical Conductors and Leaders  
Diameter 
of 
Leader 
(inchesa) Horizontally Projected Roof Area (square feet)  
Rainfall rate (inches per hour)  
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 
2 2,280  1,440  960 720 575 480 410 360 320 290 260 240 
3 8,800  4,400  2,930  2,200  1,760  1,470  1,260  1,100  980 880 800 730 
4 18,400  9,200  6,130  4,600  3,680  3,070  2,630  2,300  2,045  1,840  1,675  1,530  
5 34,600  17,300  11,530  8,650  6,920  5,765  4,945  4,325  3,845  3,460  3,145  2,880  
6 54,000  27,000  17,995  13,500  10,800  9,000  7,715  6,750  6,000  5,400  4,910  4,500  
8 116,000  58,000  38,660  29,000  23,200  19,315  16,570  14,500  12,890  11,600  10,545  9,600  
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2. 
a. Sizes indicated are the diameter of circular piping. This table is applicable to piping of other shapes, provided the cross -sectional shape fully enclosed a circle 
of the diameter indicated in this table. For rectangular leaders, see Table 1106.2(2). Interpolation is permitted for pipe si zes that fall between those listed in this 
table.  
Table 1106.2(2)  
Size of Rectangular Vertical Conductors and Leaders  
Dimensions 
of Common 
Leader Sizes  
width x 
length 
(inches)a,b Horizontally Projected Roof Area (square feet)  
Rainfall rate (inches per hour)  
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 
1-3/4 x 2 -1/2 3,410  1,700  1,130  850 680 560 480 420 370 340 310 280 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1878  2 x 3  5,540  2,770  1,840  1,380  1,100  920 790 690 610 550 500 460 
2-3/4 x 4 -1/4 12,830  6,410  4,270  3,200  2,560  2,130  1,830  1,600  1,420  1,280  1,160  1,060  
3 x 4  13,210  6,600  4,400  3,300  2,640  2,200  1,880  1,650  1,460  1,320  1,200  1,100  
3-1/2 x 4  15.900  7,950  5,300  3,970  3,180  2,650  2,270  1,980  1,760  1,590  1,440  1,320  
3-1/2 x 5  21,310  10,650  7,100  5,320  4,260  3,550  3,040  2,660  2,360  2,130  1,930  1,770  
3-3/4 x 4 -3/4 21,960  10,980  7,320  5,490  4,390  3,660  3,130  2,740  2,440  2,190  1,990  1,830  
3-3/4 x 5 -1/4 25,520  12,760  8,500  6,380  5,100  4,250  3,640  3,190  2,830  2,550  2,320  2,120  
3-1/2 x 6  27,790  13,890  9,260  6,940  5,550  4,630  3,970  3,470  3,080  2,770  2,520  2,310  
4 x 6  32,980  16,490  10,990  8,240  6,590  5,490  4,710  4,120  3,660  3,290  2,990  2,740  
5-1/2 x 5 -1/2 44,300  22,150  14,760  11,070  8,860  7,380  6,320  5,530  4,920  4,430  4,020  3,690  
7-1/2 x 7 -1/2 100,500  50,250  33,500  25,120  20,100  16,750  14,350  12,560  11,160  10,050  9,130  8,370  
For SI: 1 inch =m, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2. 
a. Sizes indicated are nominal width x length of the opening for rectangular piping.  
b. For shapes not included in this table, Equation 11 -1 shall be used to determine the equivalent circular diameter, De, of rectangular piping for use in 
interpolation using  the data from Table 1106.2(1).  
(Equation 11 -1) 
De = (width x length)1/2  
where:  
De = equivalent circular diameter and De, width and length are in inches.  
18. Change Section 1106.3 and Table 1106.3 of the IPC to read:  
1106.3 Building storm drains and sewers. The size of the building storm drain, building storm sewer and their 
horizontal branches having a slope of 1/2 unit or less vertical in 12 units horizontal (4% slope) shall be based on the 
maximum projected roof area in accordance with Table 1106.3 . The slope of horizontal branches shall be not less than 
1/8 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1% slope) unless otherwise approved.  
Table 1106.3  
Size of Horizontal Storm Drainage Piping  
Size of 
Horizontal 
Piping 
(inches)  Horizontally Projected Roof A rea (square feet)  
Rainfall rate (inches per hour)  
1 2 3 4 5 6 
1/8 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1% slope)  
3  
4  
5  
6  
8  
10  
12  
15 3,288  
7,520  
13,360  
21,400  
46,000  
82,800  
133,200  
218,000  1,644  
3,760  
6,680  
10,700  
23,000  
41,400  
66,600  
109,000  1,096  
2,506  
4,453  
7,133  
15,330  
27,600  
44,400  
72,800  822  
1,800  
3,340  
5,350  
11,500  
20,700  
33,300  
59,500  657  
1,504  
2,672  
4,280  
9,200  
16,580  
26,650  
47,600  548  
1,253  
2,227  
3,566  
7,600  
13,800  
22,200  
39,650  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1879 1/4 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2% slope)  
3  
4  
5  
6  
8  
10  
12  
15 4,640  
10,600  
18,880  
30,200  
65,200  
116,800  
188,000  
336,000  2,320  
5,300  
9,440  
15,100  
32,600  
58,400  
94,000  
168,000  1,546  
3,533  
6,293  
10,066  
21,733  
38,950  
62,600  
112,000  1,160  
2,650  
4,720  
7,550  
16,300  
29,200  
47,000  
84,000  928  
2,120  
3,776  
6,040  
13,040  
23,350  
37,600  
67,250  773  
1,766  
3,146  
5,033  
10,866  
19,450  
31,350  
56,000  
1/2 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (4% slope)  
3  
4  
5  
6  
8  
10  
12  
15 6,576  
15,040  
26,720  
42,800  
92,000  
171,600  
266,400  
476,000  3,288  
7,520  
13,360  
21,400  
46,000  
85,800  
133,200  
238,000  2,295  
5,010  
8,900  
13,700  
30,650  
55,200  
88,800  
158,800  1,644  
3,760  
6,680  
10,700  
23,000  
41,400  
66,600  
119,000  1,310  
3,010  
5,320  
8,580  
18,400  
33,150  
53,200  
95,300  1,096  
2,500  
4,450  
7,140  
15,320  
27,600  
44,400  
79,250  
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2. 
19. Change Section 1106.6 and Table 1106.6 of the IPC to read:  
1106.6 Size of roof gutters. The size of semicircular gutters shall be based on the maximum projected roof area in 
accordance with Table 1106.6.  
Table 1106.6  
Size of Semicircular Roof Gutters  
Diameter of 
Gutters 
(inches)  Horizontally Projected Roof Area (square feet)  
Rainfall rate (inches per hour)  
1 2 3 4 5 6 
1/16 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (0.5% slope)  
3  
4  
5  
6  
7  
8  
10 680  
1,440  
2,500  
3,840  
5,520  
7,960  
14,400  340  
720  
1,250  
1,920  
2,760  
3,980  
7,200  226  
480  
834  
1,280  
1,840  
2,655  
4,800  170  
360  
625  
960  
1,380  
1,990  
3,600  136  
288  
500  
768  
1,100  
1,590  
2,880  113  
240  
416  
640  
918  
1,325  
2,400  
1/8 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1% slope)  
3  
4  
5  
6  
7  
8  
10 960  
2,040  
3,520  
5,440  
7,800  
11,200  
20,400  480  
1,020  
1,760  
2,720  
3,900  
5,600  
10,200  320  
681  
1,172  
1,815  
2,600  
3,740  
6,800  240  
510  
880  
1,360  
1,950  
2,800  
5,100  192  
408  
704  
1,085  
1,560  
2,240  
4,080  160  
340  
587  
905  
1,300  
1,870  
3,400  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1880  1/4 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2% slope)  
3  
4  
5  
6  
7  
8  
10 1,360  
2,880  
5,000  
7,680  
11,040  
15,920  
28,800  680  
1,440  
2,500  
3,840  
5,520  
7,960  
14,400  454  
960  
1,668  
2,560  
3,860  
5,310  
9,600  340  
720  
1,250  
1,920  
2,760  
3,980  
7,200  272  
576  
1,000  
1,536  
2,205  
3,180  
5,750  226  
480  
834  
1,280  
1,840  
2,655  
4,800  
1/2 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (4% slope)  
3  
4  
5  
6  
7  
8  
10 1,920  
4,080  
7,080  
11,080  
15,600  
22,400  
40,000  960  
2,040  
3,540  
5,540  
7,800  
11,200  
20,000  640  
1,360  
2,360  
3,695  
5,200  
7,460  
13,330  480  
1,020  
1,770  
2,770  
3,900  
5,600  
10,000  384  
816  
1,415  
2,220  
3,120  
4,480  
8,000  320  
680  
1,180  
1,850  
2,600  
3,730  
6,660  
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2. ]  
[ 16. 20. ] Change Sections 1301.1 through 1301.12 and 
add Sections 1301.13 through 1301.18, including 
subsections, to the IPC to read:  
1301.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapter 13 shall govern 
the materials, design, construction, and installation of 
nonpotable wate r systems subject to this code. In 
addition to the applicable provision of this section, 
reclaimed water shall comply with the requirements of 
Section 1304.  
1301.1.1 Design of nonpotable water systems. All 
portions of nonpotable water systems subject to t his code 
shall be constructed using the same standards and 
requirements for the potable water systems or drainage 
systems as provided for in this code unless otherwise 
specified in this chapter.  
1301.2 Makeup water. Makeup water shall be provided 
for all nonpotable water supply systems. The makeup 
water system shall be designed and installed to provide 
supply of water in the amounts and at the pressures 
specified in this code. The makeup water supply shall be 
potable and be protected against backflow in ac cordance 
with the applicable requirements of Section 608.  
1301.2.1 Makeup water sources. Potable water shall be 
provided as makeup water for reclaimed water systems. 
Nonpotable water shall be permitted to serve as makeup 
water for gray water and rainwater  systems.  
1301.2.2 Makeup water supply valve. A full -open valve 
shall be provided on the makeup water supply line.  
1301.2.3 Control valve alarm. Makeup water systems 
shall be fitted with a warning mechanism that alerts the 
user to a failure of the inlet control valve to close 
correctly. The alarm shall activate before the water within the storage tank begins to discharge into the 
overflow system.  
1301.3 Sizing. Nonpotable water distribution systems 
shall be designed and sized for peak demand in 
accordanc e with approved engineering practice methods 
that comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 6.  
1301.4 Signage required. All nonpotable water outlets, 
other than water closets and urinals, such as hose 
connections, open -ended pipes, and faucets shal l be 
identified at the point of use for each outlet with signage 
that reads as follows: "Nonpotable water is utilized for 
(insert application name). Caution: nonpotable water. DO 
NOT DRINK." The words shall be legibly and indelibly 
printed on a tag or sign  constructed of corrosion -resistant 
waterproof material or shall be indelibly printed on the 
fixture. The letters of the words shall be not less than 0.5 
inches (12.7 mm) in height and in colors in contrast to 
the background on which they are applied. The 
pictograph shown in Figure 1301.4 shall appear on the 
signage required by this section.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1881   
 
1301.5 Potable water supply system connections. Where 
a potable water supply system is connected to a 
nonpotable water system, the potable water supply shall 
be protected against backflow in accordance with the 
applicable provisions of Section 608.  
1301.6  Nonpotable water system connections. Where a 
nonpotable water system is connected and supplies water 
to another nonpotable water system, the nonpotable water 
system that supplies water shall be protected against 
backflow in accordance with the applicable provisions of 
Section 608.  
1301.7 Approved components and materials. Piping, 
plumbing components, and materials used in the 
nonpotable water drainage and distribution systems shall 
be approved for the intended application and compatible 
with the water and  any disinfection or treatment systems 
used.  
1301.8 Insect and vermin control. Nonpotable water 
systems shall be protected to prevent the entrance of 
insects and vermin into storage and piping systems. 
Screen materials shall be compatible with system 
mate rial and shall not promote corrosion of system 
components.  
1301.9 Freeze protection. Nonpotable water systems 
shall be protected from freezing in accordance with the 
applicable provisions of Chapter 3.  
1301.10 Nonpotable water storage tanks. Nonpotable 
water storage tanks shall be approved for the intended 
application and comply with Sections 1301.10.1 through 
1301.10.12.  
1301.10.1 Sizing. The holding capacity of storage tanks 
shall be sized for the intended use.  
1301.10.2 Inlets. Storage tank inlets sh all be designed to 
introduce water into the tank and avoid agitating the 
contents of the storage tank. The water supply to storage 
tanks shall be controlled by fill valves or other automatic 
supply valves designed to stop the flow of incoming 
water before the tank contents reach the overflow pipes.  1301.10.3 Outlets. Outlets shall be located at least 4 
inches (102 mm) above the bottom of the storage tank 
and shall not skim water from the surface.  
1301.10.4 Materials and location. Storage tanks shall be 
constructed of material compatible with treatment 
systems used to treat water. Above grade storage vessels 
shall be constructed using opaque, UV -resistant materials 
such as tinted plastic, lined metal, concrete, or wood or 
painted to prevent algae growth. Ab ove grade storage 
tanks shall be protected from direct sunlight unless their 
design specifically incorporates the use of the sunlight 
heat transfer. Wooden storage tanks shall be provided 
with a flexible liner. Storage tanks and their manholes 
shall not be  located directly under soil or waste piping or 
sources of contamination.  
1301.10.5 Foundation and supports. Storage tanks shall 
be supported on a firm base capable of withstanding the 
storage tank's weight when filled to capacity. Storage 
tanks shall be supported in accordance with the 
applicable provisions of the IBC.  
1301.10.5.1 Ballast. Where the soil can become 
saturated, an underground storage tank shall be ballasted, 
or otherwise secured, to prevent the effects of buoyancy. 
The combined weight of t he tank and hold down ballast 
shall meet or exceed the buoyancy force of the tank. 
Where the installation requires a foundation, the 
foundation shall be flat and shall be designed to support 
the storage tank weight when full, consistent with the 
bearing ca pability of adjacent soil.  
1301.10.5.2 Structural support. Where installed below 
grade, storage tank installations shall be designed to 
withstand earth and surface structural loads without 
damage.  
1301.10.6 Overflow. The storage tank shall be equipped 
with an overflow pipe having a diameter not less than 
that shown in Table 606.5.4. The overflow outlet shall 
discharge at a point not less than 6 inches (152 mm) 
above the roof or roof drain, floor or floor drain, or over 
an open water -supplied fixture. The overflow outlet shall 
terminate through a check valve. Overflow pipes shall 
not be directed on walkways. The overflow drain shall 
not be equipped with a shutoff valve. A minimum of one 
cleanout shall be provided on each overflow pipe in 
accordance with the  applicable provisions of Section 708.  
1301.10.7 Access. A minimum of one access opening 
shall be provided to allow inspection and cleaning of the 
tank interior. Access openings shall have an approved 
locking device or other approved method of securing 
access. Below grade storage tanks, located outside of the 
building, shall be provided with either a manhole not less 
than 24 inches (610 mm) square or a manhole with an 
inside diameter not less than 24 inches (610 mm). The Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1882  design and installation of access o penings shall prohibit 
surface water from entering the tank. Each manhole 
cover shall have an approved locking device or other 
approved method of securing access.  
Exception: Storage tanks under 800 gallons (3028 L) in 
volume installed below grade shall no t be required to be 
equipped with a manhole, but shall have an access 
opening not less than 8 inches (203 mm) in diameter to 
allow inspection and cleaning of the tank interior.  
1301.10.8 Venting. Storage tanks shall be vented. Vents 
shall not be connected  to sanitary drainage system. Vents 
shall be at least equal in size to the internal diameter of 
the drainage inlet pipe or pipes connected to the tank. 
Where installed at grade, vents shall be protected from 
contamination by means of a U -bend installed wit h the 
opening directed downward. Vent outlets shall extend a 
minimum of 12 inches (304.8 mm) above grade, or as 
necessary to prevent surface water from entering the 
storage tank. Vent openings shall be protected against the 
entrance of vermin and insects. Vents serving gray water 
tanks shall terminate in accordance with the applicable 
provisions of Sections 903 and 1301.8.  
1301.10.9 Drain. Where drains are provided they shall be 
located at the lowest point of the storage tank. The tank 
drain pipe shall dis charge as required for overflow pipes 
and shall not be smaller in size than specified in Table 
606.5.7. A minimum of one cleanout shall be provided 
on each drain pipe in accordance with Section 708.  
1301.10.10 Labeling and signage. Each nonpotable water 
storage tank shall be labeled with its rated capacity and 
the location of the upstream bypass valve. Underground 
and otherwise concealed storage tanks shall be labeled at 
all access points. The label shall read: "CAUTION: 
NONPOTABLE WATER – DO NOT DRINK." W here 
an opening is provided that could allow the entry of 
personnel, the opening shall be marked with the words: 
"DANGER – CONFINED SPACE." Markings shall be 
indelibly printed on a tag or sign constructed of 
corrosion -resistant waterproof material mounted on the 
tank or shall be indelibly printed on the tank. The letters 
of the words shall be not less than 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) 
in height and shall be of a color in contrast with the 
background on which they are applied.  
1301.10.11 Storage tank tests. Storage  tanks shall be 
tested in accordance with the following:  
1. Storage tanks shall be filled with water to the overflow 
line prior to and during inspection. All seams and joints 
shall be left exposed and the tank shall remain watertight 
without leakage for a  period of 24 hours.  
2. After 24 hours, supplemental water shall be introduced 
for a period of 15 minutes to verify proper drainage of 
the overflow system and verify that there are no leaks.  3. Following a successful test of the overflow, the water 
level in the tank shall be reduced to a level that is at 2 
inches (50.8 mm) below the makeup water offset point. 
The tank drain shall be observed for proper operation. 
The makeup water system shall be observed for proper 
operation, and successful automatic shutoff of the system 
at the refill threshold shall be verified. Water shall not be 
drained from the overflow at any time during the refill 
test.  
4. Air tests shall be permitted in lieu of water t esting as 
recommended by the tank manufacturer or the tank 
standard.  
1301.10.12 Structural strength. Storage tanks shall meet 
the applicable structural strength requirements of the 
IBC.  
1301.11 Trenching requirements for nonpotable water 
system piping. U nderground nonpotable water system 
piping shall be horizontally separated from the building 
sewer and potable water piping by 5 feet [  (1524 m)  
(1524 mm)  ] of undisturbed or compacted earth. 
Nonpotable water system piping shall not be located in, 
under, or  above sewage systems cesspools, septic tanks, 
septic tank drainage fields, or seepage pits. Buried 
nonpotable system piping shall comply with the 
requirements of this code for the piping material 
installed.  
Exceptions:  
1. The required separation distanc e shall not apply where 
the bottom of the nonpotable water pipe within 5 feet 
(1524 mm) of the sewer is equal to or greater than 12 
inches (305 mm) above the top of the highest point of the 
sewer and the pipe materials conforms to Table 702.3.  
2. The requ ired separation distance shall not apply where 
the bottom of the potable water service pipe within 5 feet 
(1524 mm) of the nonpotable water pipe is a minimum of 
12 inches (305 mm) above the top of the highest point of 
the nonpotable water pipe and the pipe  materials comply 
with the requirements of Table 605.4.  
3. Nonpotable water pipe is permitted to be located in the 
same trench with building sewer piping, provided that 
such sewer piping is constructed of materials that comply 
with the requirements of Tab le 702.2.  
4. The required separation distance shall not apply where 
a nonpotable water pipe crosses a sewer pipe, provided 
that the pipe is sleeved to at least 5 feet (1524 mm) 
horizontally from the sewer pipe centerline on both sides 
of such crossing wit h pipe materials that comply with 
Table 702.2.  
5. The required separation distance shall not apply where 
a potable water service pipe crosses a nonpotable water 
pipe provided that the potable water service pipe is Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1883 sleeved for a distance of at least 5 feet  (1524 mm) 
horizontally from the centerline of the nonpotable pipe 
on both sides of such crossing with pipe materials that 
comply with Table 702.2.  
1301.12 Outdoor outlet access. Sillcocks, hose bibs, wall 
hydrants, yard hydrants, and other outdoor outlet s that 
are supplied by nonpotable water shall be located in a 
locked vault or shall be operable only by means of a 
removable key.  
1301.13 Drainage and vent piping and fittings. 
Nonpotable drainage and vent pipe and fittings shall 
comply with the applicabl e material standards and 
installation requirements in accordance with provisions 
of Chapter 7.  
1301.13.1. Labeling and marking. Identification of 
nonpotable drainage and vent piping shall not be 
required.  
1301.14 Pumping and control system. Mechanical 
equipment, including pumps, valves, and filters, shall be 
accessible and removable in order to perform repair, 
maintenance, and cleaning. The minimum flow rate and 
flow pressure delivered by the pumping system shall be 
designed for the intended application i n accordance with 
the applicable provisions of Section 604.  
1301.15 Water -pressure reducing valve or regulator. 
Where the water pressure supplied by the pumping 
system exceeds 80 psi (552 kPa) static, a pressure -
reducing valve shall be installed to reduce  the pressure in 
the nonpotable water distribution system piping to 80 psi 
(552 kPa) static or less. Pressure -reducing valves shall be 
specified and installed in accordance with the applicable 
provisions of Section 604.8.  
1301.16 Distribution pipe. Distri bution piping utilized in 
nonpotable water stems shall comply with Sections 
1301.16.1 through 1301.16.4.  
1301.16.1 Materials, joints, and connections. Distribution 
piping and fittings shall comply with the applicable 
material standards and installation re quirements in 
accordance with applicable provisions of Chapter 6.  
1301.16.2 Design. Distribution piping shall be designed 
and sized in accordance with the applicable provisions of 
Chapter 6.  
1301.16.3 Labeling and marking. Distribution piping 
labeling an d marking shall comply with Section 608.8.  
1301.16.4 Backflow prevention. Backflow preventers 
shall be installed in accordance with the applicable 
provisions of Section 608.  
1301.17 Tests and inspections. Tests and inspections 
shall be performed in accor dance with Sections 
1301.17.1 through 1301.17.5.  1301.17.1 Drainage and vent pipe test. Drain, waste, and 
vent piping used for gray water and rainwater nonpotable 
water systems shall be tested in accordance with the 
applicable provisions of Section 312.  
1301.17.2 Storage tank test. Storage tanks shall be tested 
in accordance with the Section 1301.10.11.  
1301.17.3 Water supply system test. Nonpotable 
distribution piping shall be tested in accordance with 
Section 312.5.  
1301.17.4 Inspection and testing of  backflow prevention 
assemblies. The testing of backflow preventers and 
backwater valves shall be conducted in accordance with 
Section 312.10.  
1301.17.5 Inspection of vermin and insect protection. 
Inlets and vent terminations shall be visually inspected t o 
verify that each termination is installed in accordance 
with Section 1301.10.8.  
1301.18 Operation and maintenance manuals. Operations 
and maintenance materials for nonpotable water systems 
shall be provided as prescribed by the system component 
manufact urers and supplied to the owner to be kept in a 
readily accessible location.  
[ 17. 21. ] Change the title of Section 1302 of the IPC to 
"Gray Water Nonpotable Water Systems."  
[ 18. 22. ] Change Sections 1302.1 through 1302.6, 
including subsections, of the IPC to read as follows and 
delete Sections 1302.7 through 1302.13 :  
1302.1 Gray water nonpotable water systems. This code 
is applicable to the plumbing fixtures, piping or piping 
syste ms, storage tanks, drains, appurtenances, and 
appliances that are part of the distribution system for 
gray water within buildings and to storage tanks and 
associated piping that are part of the distribution system 
for gray water outside of buildings. This code does not 
regulate equipment used for, or the methods of, 
processing, filtering, or treating gray water, that may be 
regulated by the Virginia Department of Health or the 
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.  
1302.1.1 Separate systems. Gray wa ter nonpotable water 
systems, unless approved otherwise under the permit 
from the Virginia Department of Health, shall be separate 
from the potable water system of a building with no cross 
connections between the two systems except as permitted 
by the Virg inia Department of Health.  
1302.2 Water quality. Each application of gray water 
reuse shall meet the minimum water quality requirements 
set forth in Sections 1302.2.1 through 1302.2.4 unless 
otherwise superseded by other state agencies.  
1302.2.1 Disinfec tion. Where the intended use or reuse 
application for nonpotable water requires disinfection or Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1884  other treatment or both, it shall be disinfected as needed 
to ensure that the required water quality is delivered at 
the point of use or reuse.  
1302.2.2 Residu al disinfectants. Where chlorine is used 
for disinfection, the nonpotable water shall contain not 
more than 4 parts per million (4 mg/L) of free chlorine, 
combined chlorine, or total chlorine. Where ozone is 
used for disinfection, the nonpotable water shal l not 
exceed 0.1 parts per million (by volume) of ozone at the 
point of use.  
1302.2.3 Filtration. Water collected for reuse shall be 
filtered as required for the intended end use. Filters shall 
be accessible for inspection and maintenance. Filters 
shall u tilize a pressure gauge or other approved method 
to indicate when a filter requires servicing or 
replacement. Shutoff valves installed immediately 
upstream and downstream of the filter shall be included 
to allow for isolation during maintenance.  
1302.2.4 Filtration required. Gray water utilized for 
water closet and urinal flushing applications shall be 
filtered by a 100 micron or finer filter.  
1302.3 Storage tanks. Storage tanks utilized in gray water 
nonpotable water systems shall comply with Section 
1301.10.  
1302.4 Retention time limits. Untreated gray water shall 
be retained in storage tanks for a maximum of 24 hours.  
1302.5 Tank Location. Storage tanks shall be located 
with a minimum horizontal distance between various 
elements as indicated in Table 1302.5.1.  
Table 1302.5.1  
Location of Nonpotable Gray Water Reuse 
Storage Tanks  
Element  Minimum Horizontal 
Distance  
from Storage Tank (feet)  
Lot line adjoining 
private lots  5 
Sewage systems  5 
Septic tanks  5 
Water wells  50 
Streams and lakes  50 
Water service  5 
Public water main  10 
1302.6 Valves. Valves shall be supplied on gray water 
nonpotable water drainage systems in accordance with 
Sections 1302.6.1 and 1302.6.2.  1302.6.1 Bypass valve. One three -way diverter valve 
certified to NSF 50 or other approved device shall be 
installed on collection piping upstream of each storage 
tank, or drainfield, as applicable, to divert untreated gray 
water to the sanitary sewer to al low servicing and 
inspection of the system. Bypass valves shall be installed 
downstream of fixture traps and vent connections. 
Bypass valves shall be labeled to indicate the direction of 
flow, connection, and storage tank or drainfield 
connection. Bypass v alves shall be provided with access 
for operation and maintenance. Two shutoff valves shall 
not be installed to serve as a bypass valve.  
1302.6.2 Backwater valve. Backwater valves shall be 
installed on each overflow and tank drain pipe to prevent 
unwanted  water from draining back into the storage tank. 
If the overflow and drain piping arrangement is installed 
to physically not allow water to drain back into the tank, 
such as in the form of an air gap, backwater valves shall 
not be required. Backwater valve s shall be constructed 
and installed in accordance with Section 715.  
[ 19. 23. ] Change the title of Section 1303 of the IPC to 
"Rainwater Nonpotable Water Systems."  
[ 20. 24. ] Change Sections 1303.1 through 1303.10, 
including subsections, of the IPC to read as follows and 
delete Sections  1303.11 through 1303.16 :  
1303.1 General. The provisions of this section shall 
govern the design, construction, installation, alteration, 
and repair of rainwater nonpotable water systems for the 
collection, storage, trea tment, and distribution of 
rainwater for nonpotable applications.  
1303.2 Water quality. Each application of rainwater 
reuse shall meet the minimum water quality requirements 
set forth in Sections 1303.2.1 through 1303.2.4 unless 
otherwise superseded by ot her state agencies.  
1303.2.1 Disinfection. Where the intended use or reuse 
application for nonpotable water requires disinfection or 
other treatment or both, it shall be disinfected as needed 
to ensure that the required water quality is delivered at 
the p oint of use or reuse.  
1303.2.2 Residual disinfectants. Where chlorine is used 
for disinfection, the nonpotable water shall contain not 
more than 4 parts per million (4 mg/L) of free chlorine, 
combined chlorine, or total chlorine. Where ozone is 
used for d isinfection, the nonpotable water shall not 
exceed 0.1 parts per million (by volume) of ozone at the 
point of use.  
1303.2.3 Filtration. Water collected for reuse shall be 
filtered as required for the intended end use. Filters shall 
be accessible for inspe ction and maintenance. Filters 
shall utilize a pressure gauge or other approved method 
to indicate when a filter requires servicing or Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1885 replacement. Shutoff valves installed immediately 
upstream and downstream of the filter shall be included 
to allow for is olation during maintenance.  
1303.2.4 Filtration required. Rainwater utilized for water 
closet and urinal flushing applications shall be filtered by 
a 100 micron or finer filter.  
1303.3 Collection surface. Rainwater shall be collected 
only from abovegroun d impervious roofing surfaces 
constructed from approved materials. Overflow or 
discharge piping from appliances or equipment, or both, 
including but not limited to evaporative coolers, water 
heaters, and solar water heaters shall not discharge onto 
rainwat er collection surfaces.  
1303.4 Collection surface diversion. At a minimum, the 
first 0.04 inches (1.016 mm) of each rain event of 25 
gallons (94.6 L) per 1000 square feet (92.9 m2) shall be 
diverted from the storage tank by automatic means and 
not require  the operation of manually operated valves or 
devices. Diverted water shall not drain onto other 
collection surfaces that are discharging to the rainwater 
system or to the sanitary sewer. Such water shall be 
diverted from the storage tank and discharged in  an 
approved location.  
1303.5 Pre -tank filtration. Downspouts, conductors, and 
leaders shall be connected to a pre -tank filtration device. 
The filtration device shall not permit materials larger 
than 0.015 inches (0.4 mm).  
1303.6 Roof gutters and downspo uts. Gutters and 
downspouts shall be constructed of materials that are 
compatible with the collection surface and the rainwater 
quality for the desired end use. Joints shall be made 
watertight.  
1303.6.1 Slope. Roof gutters, leaders, and rainwater 
collecti on piping shall slope continuously toward 
collection inlets. Gutters and downspouts shall have a 
slope of not less than 1 unit in 96 units along their entire 
length and shall not permit the collection or pooling of 
water at any point.  
Exception: Siphonic roof drainage systems installed in 
accordance with Chapter 11 shall not be required to have 
slope.  
1303.6.2 Size. Gutters and downspouts shall be installed 
and sized in accordance with Section 1106.6 and local 
rainfall rates.  
1303.6.3 Cleanouts. Cleanouts or other approved 
openings shall be provided to permit access to all filters, 
flushes, pipes, and downspouts.  
1303.7 Storage tanks. Storage tanks utilized in rainwater 
nonpotable water systems shall comply with Section 
1301.1 0.  1303.8 Location. Storage tanks shall be located with a 
minimum horizontal distance between various elements 
as indicated in Table 1303.8.1.  
Table 1303.8.1  
Location of Rainwater Storage Tanks  
Element  Minimum Horizontal 
Distance  
from Storage Tank (feet)  
Lot line adjoining 
private lots  5 
Sewage systems  5 
Septic tanks  5 
1303.9 Valves. Valves shall be installed in collection and 
conveyance drainage piping of rainwater nonpotable 
water systems in accordance with Sections 1303.9.1 and 
1303.9.2.  
1303.9.1 Influent diversion. A means shall be provided to 
divert storage tank influent to allow maintenance and 
repair of the storage tank system.  
1303.9.2 Backwater valve. Backwater valves shall be 
installed on each overflow and tank drain pipe to preven t 
unwanted water from draining back into the storage tank. 
If the overflow and drain piping arrangement is installed 
to physically not allow water to drain back into the tank, 
such as in the form of an air gap, backwater valves shall 
not be required. Backw ater valves shall be constructed 
and installed in accordance with Section 715.  
1303.10 Tests and inspections. Tests and inspections 
shall be performed in accordance with Sections 
1303.10.1 through 1303.10.2.  
1303.10.1 Roof gutter inspection and test. Roo f gutters 
shall be inspected to verify that the installation and slope 
is in accordance with Section 1303.6.1. Gutters shall be 
tested by pouring a minimum of one gallon of water into 
the end of the gutter opposite the collection point. The 
gutter being te sted shall not leak and shall not retain 
standing water.  
1303.10.2 Collection surface diversion test. A collection 
surface diversion test shall be performed by introducing 
water into the gutters or onto the collection surface area. 
Diversion of the first quantity of water in accordance 
with the requirements of Section 1303.4 shall be verified.  
[ 21. 25. ] Add Section 1304 entitled "Reclaimed Water 
Systems" to the IPC.  
22. Add  Change  Sections 1304.1 and 1304.2 [  to of ] the 
IPC to read as follows and delete Sections 1304.3 and 
1304.4 :  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1886  1304.1 General. Reclaimed water, water reclamation systems, 
reclaimed water distribution systems, and allowable nonpotable 
reuses of reclaimed water are as defined or specified in and 
governed by the Virginia Water Recla mation and Reuse 
Regulation (9VAC25 -740). Permits from the Virginia State 
Water Control Board are required for such systems and reuses. 
The provisions of Section 1304 shall govern the design, 
construction, installation, alterations, and repair of plumbing 
fixtures, piping or piping systems, storage tanks, drains, 
appurtenances, and appliances that are part of the distribution 
system for reclaimed water within buildings and to storage 
tanks for reclaimed water as defined in the Virginia Water 
Reclamation and  Reuse Regulation (9VAC25 -740) and 
associated piping outside of buildings that deliver reclaimed 
water into buildings. Where conflicts occur between this code 
and the Virginia Water Reclamation and Reuse Regulation 
(9VAC25 -740), the provisions of the Virgi nia Water 
Reclamation and Reuse Regulation (9VAC25 -740) shall apply 
unless determined otherwise by the Virginia Department of 
Environmental Quality and DHCD through a memorandum of 
agreement.  
1304.2 Design of reclaimed water systems. The design of 
reclaim ed water systems shall conform to applicable 
requirements of Section 1301.  
Exception: The design of reclaimed water systems shall 
conform to applicable requirements of the Virginia Water 
Reclamation and Reuse Regulation (9VAC25 -740) for 
the following:  
1. Identification, labeling, and posting of signage for 
reclaimed water systems in lieu of signage requirements 
described in Section 1301.4.  
2. Sizing of system storage as defined in the Virginia 
Water Reclamation and Reuse Regulation (9VAC25 -
740), in addit ion to storage sizing requirements described 
in Section 1301.10.1.  
3. Signage and labeling for reclaimed water storage in 
addition to labeling and signage requirements described 
in Section 1301.10.10.  
4. Minimum separation distances and configurations fo r 
in-ground reclaimed water distribution piping in lieu of 
trenching requirements for nonpotable water systems 
described in Section 1301.11.  
23. Add the following referenced standard to Chapter 14 of 
the IPC:  
Standard 
Reference 
Number  Title  Referenced in  
Code Section 
Number  
NSF 50 -09 Equipment for 
Swimming 
Pools, Spas, Hot 
Tubs and Other 
Recreational 
Water Facilities  1302.6.1  C. Modify the Group A -5 "Description" category of Table 
2902.1 of the IBC to read:  
  Stadiums, amusement parks, pools, bleachers, and 
grandstands for outdoor sporting events and activities 
[ h f ] 
D. Add footnote [  "h" "f" ] to Table 2902.1 of the IBC to 
read:  
[ h. f. ] The occupant load for pools shall be in accordance 
with the "Skating rinks, swimming pools" category of 
Table 1004.1.2.  
13VAC5 -63-330. Chapter 30 Elevators and conveying 
systems.  
A. Change Section 3002.4 of the IBC to read:  
3002.4 Elevator car to acc ommodate ambulance stretcher. 
Where elevators are provided in buildings four or more 
stories above, or four or more stories below, grade plane, at 
least one elevator shall be provided for fire department 
emergency access to all floors. The elevator car sha ll be of 
such a size and arrangement to accommodate an 
ambulance stretcher 24 inches by 84 inches (610 mm by 
2134 mm) with not less than five -inch (127 mm) radius 
corners, in the horizontal, open position and shall be 
identified by the international symbol  for emergency 
medical services (star of life). The symbol shall not be less 
than three inches (76 mm) high and shall be placed inside 
on both sides of the hoistway door frame on the designated 
and alternate landing floors required to be established by 
ASM E A17.1.  
Exception: Elevators in multistory dwelling units or guest 
rooms.  
B. Change Section 3003.3 of the IBC to read:  
3003.3 Fire service elevator keys. All elevators shall be 
equipped to operate with either a standardized or non -
standardized fire ser vice elevator key in accordance with 
the IFC.  
C. Change Section 3006.4  3005.4  of the IBC to read:  
3006.4  3005.4  Machine and control rooms, control spaces, 
and machinery spaces. Elevator machine rooms, rooms and 
spaces housing elevator controllers, and ma chinery spaces 
shall be enclosed with fire barriers constructed in 
accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies 
constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. The 
fire-resistance rating shall not be less than the required 
rating of the hoistw ay enclosure. Openings in the fire 
barriers shall be protected with assemblies having a fire 
protection rating not less than that required for the 
hoistway enclosure doors.  
Exception: In buildings four stories or less above grade 
plane when elevator machi ne rooms, rooms and spaces Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1887 housing elevator controllers, and machinery spaces do not 
abut and have no openings to the hoistway enclosure they 
serve, the elevator machine rooms, rooms and spaces 
housing elevator controllers, and machinery spaces are not 
required to be fire -resistance rated.  
D. Add Section 3006.7  3005.7  to the IBC to read:  
3006.7  3005.7  Machine -room -less designs. Where 
machine -room -less designs are utilized they shall comply 
with the provisions of ASME A17.1 and incorporate the 
following:  
1. Where the elevator car -top will be used as a work 
platform, it shall be equipped with permanently installed 
guards on all open sides. Guards shall be permitted to be 
of collapsible design, but otherwise must conform to all 
applicable requirements of thi s code for guards.  
2. Where the equipment manufacturer's procedures for 
machinery removal and replacement depend on overhead 
structural support or lifting points, such supports or 
lifting points shall be permanently installed at the time of 
initial equipm ent installation.  
3. Where the structure that the elevator will be located in 
is required to be fully sprinklered by this code, the 
hoistway that the elevator machine is located in shall be 
equipped with a fire suppression system as a machine 
room in acco rdance with NFPA 13. Smoke detectors for 
the automatic initiation of Phase I Emergency Recall 
Operation, and heat detectors or other approved devices 
that automatically disconnect the main line power supply 
to the elevators, shall be installed within the h oistway.  
E. Delete Section 3006 of the IBC in its entirety.  
F. Change Section 3008.1 of the IBC to read:  
3008.1 General. Where elevators in buildings greater than 
420 feet (128 016 mm) in building height are to be used for 
occupant self -evacuation during fires, all passenger 
elevators for general public use shall comply with this 
section.  
[ 13VAC5 -63-336. Ch apter 31 Special construction.  
A. Change the title of IBC Section 3109 to read:  
Swimming Pools, Swimming Pool Enclosures, and 
Aquatic Recreational Facilities.  
B. Change Section 3109.1 of the IBC to read as follows, add 
Section 3109.1.1 to the IBC to rea d as follows, and delete the 
remainder of Section 3109 of the IBC:  
3109.1 General. Swimming pools, swimming pool 
enclosures, and aquatic recreational facilities, as that term 
is defined in the ISPSC, shall comply with applicable 
provisions of the ISPSC.  3109.1.1 Changes to the ISPSC. The following changes 
shall be made to the ISPSC:  
1. Add Section 410.2 and related subsections to the ISPSC 
to read:  
410.2 Showers. Showers shall be in accordance with 
Sections 410.2.1 through 410.2.5.  
410.2.1 Deck hand sh ower or shower spray unit. Not less 
than one and not greater than half of the total number of 
showers required by Section 410.1 shall be a hand 
shower or spray shower unit located on the deck of or at 
the entrance of each pool.  
410.2.2 Anti -scald device. Where heated water is 
provided to the showers, the shower water supply shall 
be controlled by an anti -scald device.  
401.2.3  410.2.3  Water heater and mixing valve. Bather 
access to water heaters and thermostatically controlled 
mixing valves for showers sha ll be prohibited.  
401.2.4  410.2.4  Flow rate. Each showerhead shall have a 
water flow of not less than 2 gallons per minute (7.6 
lpm).  
401.2.5  410.2.5  Temperature. At each showerhead, the 
heated shower water temperature shall not exceed 120oF 
(49oC) and s hall not be less than 90oF (32oC).  
2. Change the title of Section 609 of the ISPSC to read:  
Dressing and Sanitary Facilities.  
3. Change Section 609.3.1 of the ISPSC to read:  
609.3.1 Deck hand shower or shower spray unit. Not less 
than one and not greate r than half of the total number of 
showers required by Section 609.2 shall be a hand 
shower or shower spray unit located on the deck of or at 
the entrance of each pool.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-350. Chapter 34 Existing structures.  
(Repealed.)   
Delete Chapter 34 of the  IBC in its entirety.  
13VAC5 -63-360. Chapter 35 Referenced standards.  
Change the referenced standards in Chapter 35 of the IBC as 
follows (standards not shown remain the same):  
Standard 
reference 
number  Title  Referenced in 
code section 
number  
ASTM E329 -02 Standard 
Specification for 
Agencies Engaged in 
the Testing and/or 
Inspection of 
Materials Used in 
Construction  1703.1, 
1703.1.3  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1888  API 650 -09 Welded Steel Tanks 
for Oil Storage  426.2  428.2  
API 653 -09 Tank Inspection, 
Repair, Alteration 
and Reconstruction  426.4  428.4 , 
426.5  428.5  
ASME A17.1 -
2010/CSA B44 
- 10 Safety Code for 
Elevators and 
Escalators  907.3.3, 
911.1.5, 
1007.4, 
1607.9.1, 
3001.2, 
3001.4, 
3002.5, 
3003.2, 
3007.1, 
3007.2, 
3008.2, 
3008.2.1, 
3008.7.6m, 
3008.8.1  
ASME 
A18.1 -2011  Safety Standard for  
Platform Lifts and 
Stairway Chairlifts  1109.8 , 
2702.2.6  
NFPA 91 -15 Standard for Exhaust 
Systems for Air 
Conveying of 
Vapors, Mists and 
Particulate Solids  430.3.6  
ISPSC -12 
ISPSC -15 International 
Swimming Pool and 
Spa Code  202, 3109.1, 
3109.1.1  
TFI RMIP -09 Aboveground Storage 
Tanks Containing 
Liquid Fertilizer, 
Recommended 
Mechanical Integrity 
Practices  426.2  428.2 , 
426.4  428.4 , 
426.5  428.5  
UL 294 -10 Access Control 
System Units  1008.1.9.8  
UL 2075 -13 Standard for Gas and 
Vapor Detectors and 
Sensors  908.7 .3 915.4   
13VAC5 -63-370. Appendix F Rodent proofing  Rodent 
proofing .  
The following provisions of Appendix F of the IBC are part 
of this code:  
F101.2 Foundation wall ventilation openings.  
F101.6 Pier and wood construction. (Includes all 
provisions.)  Part II  
Rehabilitation  Existing Buildings  
13VAC5 -63-400. Chapter 1 Administration; Section 101 
General.  
A. Section 101.1 Short title. The Virginia Uniform 
Statewide Building Code, Part II, Rehabilitation  Existing 
Buildings , may be cited as the "Virginia Rehabilitation 
Code,"  "Virginia Existing Building Code"  or as the "VRC."  
"VEBC."  
B. Section 101.2 Incorporation by reference. Chapters 2 - 16 
of the 2012  2015  International Existing Building Code, 
published by the International Code Council, Inc., are adop ted 
and incorporated by reference to be an enforceable part of the 
VRC  VEBC . The term "IEBC" means the 2012  2015  
International Existing Building Code, published by the 
International Code Council, Inc. Any codes and standards 
referenced in the IEBC are also considered to be part of the 
incorporation by reference, except that such codes and 
standards are used only to the prescribed extent of each such 
reference.  
C. Section 101.3 Numbering system. A dual numbering 
system is used in the VRC  VEBC  to correlate the numbering 
system of the Virginia Administrative Code with the 
numbering system of the IEBC. IEBC numbering sy stem 
designations are provided in the catchlines of the Virginia 
Administrative Code sections and cross references between 
sections or chapters of the VRC  VEBC  use only the IEBC 
numbering system designations. The term "chapter" is used in 
the context of th e numbering system of the IEBC and may 
mean a chapter in the VRC  VEBC , a chapter in the IEBC or a 
chapter in a referenced code or standard, depending on the 
context of the use of the term. The term "chapter" is not used 
to designate a chapter of the Virgin ia Administrative Code, 
unless clearly indicated.  
D. Section 101.4 Arrangement of code provisions. The VRC  
VEBC  is comprised of the combination of (i) the provisions 
of Chapter 1, Administration, which are established herein, 
(ii) Chapters 2 - 16 of the I EBC, which are incorporated by 
reference in Section 101.2, and (iii) the changes to the text of 
the incorporated chapters of the IEBC that are specifically 
identified, including any new chapters added. The 
terminology "changes to the text of the incorporat ed chapters 
of the IEBC that are specifically identified, including any new 
chapters added" shall also be referred to as the "state 
amendments to the IEBC." Such state amendments to the 
IEBC are set out using corresponding chapter and section 
numbers of th e IEBC numbering system. In addition, since 
Chapter 1 of the IEBC is not incorporated as part of the VRC  
VEBC , any reference to a provision of Chapter 1 of the IEBC 
in the provisions of Chapters 2 - 16 of the IEBC is generally 
invalid. However, where the p urpose of such a reference 
would clearly correspond to a provision of Chapter 1 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1889 established herein, then the reference may be construed to be 
a valid reference to such corresponding Chapter 1 provision.  
E. Section 101.5 Use of terminology and notes. The 
provisions of this code shall be used as follows:  
1. The term "this code," or "the code," where used in the 
provisions of Chapter 1, in Chapters 2 - 16 of the IEBC, 
or in the state amendments to the IEBC, means the VRC  
VEBC , unless the context clearly indic ates otherwise.  
2. The term "this code," or "the code," where used in a 
code or standard referenced in the IEBC  VEBC , means 
that code or standard, unless the context clearly indicates 
otherwise.  
3. The term "USBC" where used in this code, means the 
VCC, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In 
addition, where the phrase "of the International Building 
Code under which the building was constructed" is used 
in the IEBC, it shall be construed to mean the USBC or 
other code that was in effect when th e building was built. 
Further, the   
4. The  use of notes in Chapter 1 is to provide information 
only and shall not be construed as changing the meaning 
of any code provision.  
5. Notes in the IEBC, in the codes and standards 
referenced in the IEBC and in th e state amendments to 
the IEBC, may modify the content of a related provision 
and shall be considered to be a valid part of the 
provision, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.  
6. References to International Codes and standards, 
where used in th is code, include state amendments made 
to those International Codes and standards in the VCC.  
Note: See Section 101.2 of the VCC for a list of major 
codes and standards referenced in the VCC.  
F. Section 101.6 Order of precedence. The provisions of this 
code shall be used as follows:  
1. The provisions of Chapter 1 of this code supersede any 
provisions of Chapters 2 - 16 of the IEBC that address the 
same subject matter and impose differing requirements.  
2. The provisions of Chapter 1 of this code supersede any 
provisions of the codes and standards referenced in the 
IEBC that address the same subject matter and impose 
differing requirements.  
3. The state amendments to the IEBC supersede any 
provisions of Chapters 2 - 16 of the IEBC that address the 
same subj ect matter and impose differing requirements.  
4. The state amendments to the IEBC supersede any 
provisions of the codes and standards referenced in the 
IEBC that address the same subject matter and impose 
differing requirements.  5. The provisions of Chap ters 2 - 16 of the IEBC supersede 
any provisions of the codes and standards referenced in the 
IEBC that address the same subject matter and impose 
differing requirements.  
G. Section 101.7 Administrative provisions. The provisions 
of Chapter 1 establish ad ministrative requirements, which 
include but are not limited to provisions relating to the scope 
and enforcement of the code. Any provisions of Chapters 2 - 
16 of the IEBC or any provisions of the codes and standards 
referenced in the IEBC that address the  same subject matter 
to a lesser or greater extent are deleted and replaced by the 
provisions of Chapter 1. Further, any administrative 
requirements contained in the state amendments to the IEBC 
shall be given the same precedence as the provisions of 
Chapt er 1. Notwithstanding the above, where administrative 
requirements of Chapters 2 - 16 of the IEBC or of the codes 
and standards referenced in the IEBC are specifically 
identified as valid administrative requirements in Chapter 1 of 
this code or in the stat e amendments to the IEBC, then such 
requirements are not deleted and replaced.  
Note: The purpose of this provision is to eliminate overlap, 
conflicts and duplication by providing a single standard for 
administrative, procedural and enforcement requirement s of 
this code.  
H. Section 101.8 Definitions. The definitions of terms used 
in this code are contained in Chapter 2 along with specific 
provisions addressing the use of definitions. Terms may be 
defined in other chapters or provisions of the code and such  
definitions are also valid.  
13VAC5 -63-410. Section 102 Purpose and scope.  
A. Section 102.1 Purpose. In accordance with § 36 -99.01 of 
the Code of Virginia, the General Assembly of Virginia has 
declared that (i) there is an urgent need to improve the 
hous ing conditions of low and moderate income individuals 
and families, many of whom live in substandard housing, 
particularly in the older cities of the Commonwealth; (ii) 
there are large numbers of older residential buildings in the 
Commonwealth, both occupi ed and vacant, which are in 
urgent need of rehabilitation and must be rehabilitated if the 
state's citizens are to be housed in decent, sound, and sanitary 
conditions; and (iii) the application of those building code 
requirements currently in force to hous ing rehabilitation has 
sometimes led to the imposition of costly and time -
consuming requirements that result in a significant reduction 
in the amount of rehabilitation activity taking place.  
The General Assembly further declares that (i) there is an 
urgent need to improve the existing condition of many of the 
Commonwealth's stock of commercial properties, particularly 
in older cities; (ii) there are large numbers of older 
commercial buildings in the Commonwealth, both occupied 
and vacant, that are in urgent need of rehabilitation and that 
must be rehabilitated if the citizens of the Commonwealth are Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1890  to be provided with decent, sound and sanitary work spaces; 
and (iii) the application of the exi sting building code to such 
rehabilitation has sometimes led to the imposition of costly 
and time -consuming requirements that result in a significant 
reduction in the amount of rehabilitation activity taking place.  
B. Section 102.2 Scope. The provisions o f this code shall 
[ control  ] the [ :  
1. The  rehabilitation, reconstruction, alteration, and 
repair  ], and change of occupancy  [ of existing buildings 
and structures  ] in occupancies other than Group R -5 and 
shall be permitted to be used as an alternative  to 
compliance with the VCC for additions  [ or portions 
thereof.   
Exception: The use of the VCC for occupancies classified 
as Group R -5. 
2. Additions  to existing  buildings  ] in any occupancy 
classification and for reconstruction, alteration or repair in 
Group R -5 occupancies  [ and structures or portions thereof .  
Exception: The use of  ] this code  [ the VCC  shall  ] not [ be 
permitted  ] for [ . 
3. The  change of occupancy  ] involving  [ to other than 
occupancies classified as  Group I -2 or I -3.  
Exception: The use of the VCC for change of occupancy to 
occupancies classified as Group R -5 shall be permitted.  
4. Retrofit provisions provided in Chapter 17  govern 
construction and rehabilitation activities in existing 
buildings and structures.  
C. 102.2.1 Change of occ upancy to Group I -2 or I -3. A 
change of occupancy to Group I -2 or I -3 shall comply with 
the provisions of the VCC. Written application shall be made 
to the local building department for a new certificate of 
occupancy, and the new certificate of occupancy s hall be 
obtained prior to the change of occupancy. When impractical 
to achieve compliance with the VCC for the new occupancy 
classification, the building official shall consider 
modifications upon application and as provided for in Section 
106.3 of the VCC . 
D. 102.2.2 Reconstruction, alteration, or repair in Group R -5 
occupancies. Compliance with this section shall be an 
acceptable alternative to compliance with this code at the 
discretion of the owner or owner's agent. The VCC may be 
used for the reconstru ction, alteration, or repair of Group R -5 
buildings or structures subject to the following criteria:  
1. Any reconstruction, alteration or repair shall not 
adversely affect the performance of the building or 
structure, or cause the building or structure to become 
unsafe or lower existing levels of health and safety.  
2. Parts of the building or structure not being 
reconstructed, altered, or repaired shall not be required to comply with the requirements of the VCC applicable to 
newly constructed buildings or s tructures.  
3. The installation of material or equipment, or both, that is 
neither required nor prohibited shall only be required to 
comply with the provisions of the VCC relating to the safe 
installation of such material or equipment.  
4. Material or equipm ent, or both, may be replaced in the 
same location with material or equipment of a similar kind 
of capacity.  
Exceptions:  
1. This section shall not be construed to permit 
noncompliance with any applicable flood load or flood -
resistant construction requireme nts of the VCC.  
2. Reconstructed decks, balconies, porches, and similar 
structures located 30 inches (762 mm) or more above grade 
shall meet the current code provisions for structural 
loading capacity, connections, and structural attachment. 
This requireme nt excludes the configuration and height of 
handrails and guardrails.  
5. In accordance with § 36 -99.2 of the Code of Virginia, 
any replacement glass installed in buildings constructed 
prior to the first edition of the USBC shall meet the quality 
and standa rds for glass installed in new buildings as are in 
effect at the time of installation. In addition, as a 
requirement of this code, the installation of replacement of 
glass in buildings constructed under any edition of the 
USBC shall be as required for new installations  ]. 
[ 13VAC5 -63-420. Section 103 Application of code.  
A. Section 103.1 General. All administrative provisions of 
the VCC, including but not limited to,  requirements for 
permits, inspections and approvals by the local building 
department, prov isions for appeals from decisions of the local 
building department and the issuance of modifications, are 
applicable to the use of this code, except where this code sets 
out differing requirements. Where there is a conflict between 
a general requirement an d a specific requirement in the IEBC, 
the specific requirement shall govern.  
B. Section 103.1.1 Use of performance code. Compliance 
with the provisions of a nationally recognized performance 
code when approved as a modification shall be considered to 
constitute compliance with this code. All documents 
submitted as part of such consideration shall be retained in 
the permanent records of the local building department.  
C. Section 103.1.2 Preliminary meeting. When requested by 
a prospective permit applicant o r when determined necessary 
by the code official, the code official shall meet with the 
prospective permit applicant prior to the application for a 
permit to discuss plans for the proposed work or change of 
occupancy in order to establish the specific appl icability of 
the provisions of this code.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1891 D. Section 103.2 Change of occupancy. No Prior to a  
change of occupancy shall be made in any structure when  of 
the current USBC requires a greater degree of accessibility, 
structural strength, fire protection, mea ns of egress, 
ventilation, or sanitation. When such a greater degree is 
required  building or structure , the owner or the owner's agent 
shall make written application to the local building 
department for a new certificate of occupancy and shall 
obtain the n ew certificate of occupancy prior to the new use 
of the structure .  
When impractical to achieve compliance with this code for 
the new occupancy classification , the building official shall 
consider modifications upon application and as provided for 
in Secti on 106.3 of the VCC.  
E. Section 103.3 Retrofit requirements. In accordance with 
Section 103.7 of the VCC, the  The local building department 
shall enforce the provisions of Section 1701  1101  that require 
certain existing buildings to be retrofitted with fi re protection 
systems and other safety equipment. Retroactive fire 
protection system requirements contained in the IFC shall not 
be applicable unless required for compliance with the 
provisions of Section 1701  1101 .  
F. Section 103.4 Nonrequired equipment.  The following 
criteria for nonrequired equipment is in accordance with § 36 -
103 of the Code of Virginia. Building owners may elect to 
install partial or full fire alarms or other safety equipment that 
was not required by the edition of the VCC in effect a t the 
time a building was constructed without meeting current 
requirements of the code, provided the installation does not 
create a hazardous condition. Permits for installation shall be 
obtained in accordance with the VCC. In addition, as a 
requirement of  this code, when such nonrequired equipment 
is to be installed, the building official shall notify the 
appropriate fire official or fire chief.  
G. Section 103.4.1 Reduction in function or discontinuance 
of nonrequired fire protection systems. When a nonre quired 
fire protection system is to be reduced in function or 
discontinued, it shall be done in such a manner so as not to 
create a false sense of protection. Generally, in such cases, 
any features visible from interior areas shall be removed, such 
as spri nkler heads, smoke detectors, or alarm panels or 
devices, but any wiring or piping hidden within the 
construction of the building may remain. Approval of the 
proposed method of reduction or discontinuance shall be 
obtained from the building official.  
H. Section 103.5 Equipment changes. Upon the replacement 
or new installation of any fuel -burning appliances or 
equipment in existing buildings, an inspection or inspections 
shall be conducted to ensure that the connected vent or 
chimney systems comply with  the following:  in accordance 
with Section 113.3.1 of the VCC.   1. Vent or chimney systems are sized in accordance with 
either the IRC, the IMC, or the IFGC, depending on which 
is applicable based on the fuel source and the occupancy 
classification of the structure.  
2. Vent or chimney systems are clean, free of any 
obstruction or blockages, defects, or deterioration, and are 
in operable condition.  
Where not inspected by the local building department, 
persons performing such changes or installations shall certify 
to the building official that the requirements of Items 1 and 2 
of this section are met.  
I. Section 103.6 Requirements relating to maintenance. Any 
requirements of the IEBC requiring the maintenance of 
existing buildings or structures are invalid.   
Note: Requirements for the maintenance of existing 
buildings and structures and for unsafe conditions are 
contained in the VMC.  
J. Section 103.7 Use of Appendix A. Appendix A of the 
IEBC provides guidelines for the seismic retrofit of existing 
buildings . The use of this appendix is not mandatory but shall 
be permitted to be utilized at the option of an owner, the 
owner's agent or the RDP involved in a rehabilitation project. 
However, in no case shall the use of Appendix A be 
construed to authorize the lo wering of existing levels of 
health or safety in buildings or structures being rehabilitated.  
K. Section 103.8 Use of Appendix B. Appendix B of the 
IEBC provides supplementary accessibility requirements for 
existing buildings and facilities. All applicabl e requirements 
of Appendix B shall be met in buildings and structures being 
rehabilitated.  
L. Section 103.9 Use of Resource A. Resource A of the 
IEBC provides guidelines for the evaluation of fire resistance 
ratings of archaic materials and may be used in  conjunction 
with rehabilitation projects.  
M. 103.10 Construction documents. Construction documents 
shall be submitted with the application for a permit. The work 
proposed to be performed on an existing building or structure 
shall be classified on the con struction documents as repairs, 
alterations, change of occupancy, addition, historic building, 
or moved building. All work areas shall be identified on the 
construction documents. Alterations shall further be identified 
as Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3.  
Exception: construction documents or classification of the 
work does not need to be submitted when the building official 
determines the proposed work does not require such 
documents, classification, or identification.  ] Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1892  13VAC5 -63-430. Chapter 2 Definitions.  
A. Change Section 201.3 of the IEBC to read:  
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not 
defined in this code and are defined in the other 
International Codes, such terms shall have the meanings 
ascribed to them in those codes, except that ter ms that are 
not defined in this code and that are defined in the VCC 
shall take precedence over other definitions.  
B. Change the following definition  definitions  in Section 
202 of the IEBC to read:  
Alteration. Any construction or renovation to an existin g 
structure other than a repair or addition.  
Change of occupancy.  [ A change in the use or occupancy 
of any building or structure that would place the building 
or structure in a different division of the same group of 
occupancies or in a different group of  occupancies or a 
change in the purpose or level of activity within a building 
or structure that involves a change in application of the 
requirements of this code.  Either of the following shall be 
considered a change of occupancy where the current VCC 
requires a greater degree of accessibility, structural 
strength, fire protection, means of egress, ventilation or 
sanitation than is existing in the current building or 
structure:  
1. Any change in the occupancy classification of a 
building or structure.  
2. Any  change in the purpose of, or a change in the level 
of activity within, a building or structure.  
Note: The use and occupancy classification of a building or 
structure, shall be determined in accordance with Chapter 3 
of the VCC.  ]  
Existing building. A bui lding for which a legal certificate 
of occupancy has been issued under any edition of the 
USBC or approved by the building official when no legal 
certificate of occupancy exists,  and that has been occupied 
for its intended use; or, a building built prior t o the initial 
edition of the USBC.  
Substantial improvement. For the purpose of determining 
compliance with the flood provisions of this code, any 
improvement, including repair, reconstruction, 
rehabilitation, alteration, or addition, or other improvement 
of a building or structure or a portion thereof, the cost of 
which equals or exceeds 50% of the market value of the 
building or structure before the improvement or repair is 
started. If the building or structure  [ or portion thereof  ] has 
sustained substan tial damage, any improvements are 
considered substantial improvement regardless of the 
actual improvement performed. The term does not, 
however, include either:  1. Any project for improvement of a building or structure  
[ or portion thereof  ] required to co rrect existing health, 
sanitary, or safety code violations identified by the 
building official and that is the minimum necessary to 
assure safe living conditions; or  
2. Any alteration of a historic structure, provided that the 
alteration will not preclude the building or structure's 
continued designation as a historic building or structure.  
Work area. That intended room, space, or portion of a 
building or structure where a wall or walls are added, 
relocated, or removed. Work area excludes (i) the addition 
or elimination of any door or window; (ii) the 
reconfiguration or extension of any system; (iii) the 
installation of any additional equipment; (iv) the removal 
of finished flooring or ceiling materials; (v) adjacent rooms 
or other rooms, spaces, or portions  of the building or 
structure where incidental work entailed by the intended 
work must be performed; and (vi) portions of the building 
or structure where work not initially intended is 
specifically required by this code.  
C. Add the following definitions to  Section 202 of the IEBC 
to read:  
[ Building. A combination of materials, whether portable 
or fixed, having a roof to form a structure for the use or 
occupancy by persons, or property. The word "building" 
shall be construed as though followed by the words "or 
part of parts thereof" unless th e context clearly requires a 
different meaning. "Building" shall not include roadway 
tunnels and bridges owned by the Virginia Department of 
Transportation, which shall be governed by construction 
and design standards approved by the Virginia 
Commonwealth Transportation Board.  
For application of this code, each portion of a building that 
is completely separated from other portions by fire walls 
complying with Section 706 of the VCC shall be 
considered as a separate building (see Section 503.1 of the 
VCC).  ]  
Existing structure. A structure (i) for which a legal building 
permit has been issued under any edition of the USBC, (ii) 
which has been previously approved, or (iii) which was 
built prior to the initial edition of the USBC. For 
application of provision s in flood hazard areas, an existing 
structure is any building or structure for which the start of 
construction commenced before the effective date of the 
community's first flood plain management code, ordinance, 
or standard.  
[ Moved building or structure.  An existing building or 
structure that is moved to a new location.  
Structure. An assembly of materials forming a construction 
for occupancy or use including stadiums, gospel and circus 
tents, reviewing stands, platforms, stagings, observation Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1893 towers, rad io towers, water tanks, storage tanks 
(underground and aboveground), trestles, piers, wharves, 
swimming pools, amusement devices, storage bins, and 
other structures of this general nature but excluding water 
wells. The word "structure" shall be construed a s though 
followed by the words "or part or parts thereof" unless the 
context clearly requires a different meaning. "Structure" 
shall not include roadway tunnels and bridges owned by 
the Virginia Department of Transportation, which shall be 
governed by cons truction and design standards approved 
by the Virginia Commonwealth Transportation Board.  ]  
D. Delete the following definitions from Section 202 of the 
IEBC:  
Approved  
Dangerous  
Deferred submittal  
Facility  
Flood hazard area  
Registered design professional i n responsible charge  
Relocatable building  
Unsafe  
13VAC5 -63-431. Chapter 3  [ Provisions for all compliance 
methods  General provisions and special detailed 
requirements  ]. 
A. [ Change IEBC Section 301 to General.   
B. ] Change Section 301.1 of the IEBC to rea d: 
301.1  [ General. The repair, alteration, change of 
occupancy, or addition of all existing buildings shall 
comply with one of the methods listed in Section 301.1.05, 
301.1.1, 301.1.2, or 301.1.3, as selected by the applicant. 
Sections 301.1.05, 301.1.1, 301.1.2, and 301.1.3 shall not 
be applied in combination with each other. Moved 
buildings and structures shall comply with Chapter 13 of 
this code. Where this code requires consideration of the 
seismic force -resisting system of an existing building 
subject  to repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition, 
or relocation of existing buildings, the seismic evaluation 
and design shall be based on Section 301.1.4 regardless of 
which compliance method is used.  Applicability. The 
applicable provisions of this chapter shall be used in 
conjunction with the requirements in this code, and shall 
apply to all construction and rehabilitation.  ] 
[ B. C. ] Add Section  [ 301.1.05  301.2  ] to the IEBC to read:  
[ 301.1.05 Previous code compliance method. Alterations 
and rep airs complying with the requirements of the 
building code under which the building or structure or the 
affected portions thereof was built, or as previously 
approved by the building official, shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this co de, unless the 
building or structure or the affected portions thereof is 
undergoing a substantial structural alteration as described 
in Section 907.4.2. New structural members added as part 
of the alteration or repairs shall comply with the IBC. 
Alteration s and repairs of existing buildings in flood 
hazard areas shall comply with Section 601.3 for repairs or 
Section 701.3 for alterations.  301.2 Occupancy and use. 
When determining the appropriate application of the 
referenced sections of this code, the ccupa ncy and use of a 
building shall be determined in accordance with Chapter 3 
of the VCC.  ]  
[ C. D. Change IEBC Section 302 to Building Materials and 
Systems.  
E. ] Change Sections  [ 301.1.1  302.1  ] through  [ 301.1.3  
302.3  ] of the IEBC to read:  
[ 301.1.1 Prescriptive compliance method. Repairs, 
alterations, addition, and hanges of occupancy complying 
with Chapter 4 of this code shall be considered in 
compliance with the provisions of this code.  
301.1.2 Proportional compliance method. Repairs, 
alterations, additions, and changes of occupancy 
complying with the applicable requirements of Chapters 5 
through 12 of this code shall be considered in compliance 
with the provisions of this code.  
301.1.3 Performance compliance method. Repairs, 
alterations, additions,  and changes of occupancy 
complying with Chapter 14 of this code shall be considered 
in compliance with the provisions of this code.  
D. Add Section 302.6, including subsections and tables, to 
the IEBC to read:  
302.6 Change of occupancy in existing Group B teaching 
and research laboratories. Where the use of new or 
different hazardous materials or a change in the amount of 
hazardous materials in existing Group B testing and 
research laboratories in educational occupancies above the 
12th grade would constitut e a change of occupancy, this 
section shall be permitted to be used as an acceptable 
alternative to compliance with change of occupancy 
requirements to permit the increased amounts of hazardous 
materials stipulated without the laboratories being 
classified  as Group H. In addition, as set out in Section 
5001.7 of the SFPC, approval under this section is 
contingent upon operational requirements in the SFPC 
being complied with and maintained.  
302.6.1 Hazardous materials in existing Group B teaching 
and researc h laboratories. The%age of maximum allowable 
quantities of hazardous materials per control area and the 
number of control areas permitted at each floor level 
within an existing building shall be permitted to comply 
with Table 302.6.1(1) in buildings equipp ed throughout Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1894  with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with 
Section 903.3.1.1 of the VCC or shall be permitted to 
comply with Table 302.6.1(2) in buildings not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in 
accordance with Section 903.3. 1.1 of the VCC.  
Table 302.6.1(1)  
Design and Number of Control Areas in Existing Buildings Equipped Throughout with an Automatic Sprinkler System in 
Accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the VCC with Group B Teaching and Research Laboratories in Educational 
Occupancies above the 12th Grade  
Floor Level  %age of the 
Maximum Allowable 
Quantity per Control 
Areaa Number of 
Control Areas 
per Floor  Fire-Resistance Rating for Fire 
Barriers and Horizontal 
Assemblies in Hoursb 
Above Grade 
Plane  Higher than 20  5 1 2 
10-20 10 1 2 
7-9 25 2 2 
4-6 50 2 2 
3 75 2 1 
2 100 3 1 
1 100 4 1 
Below Grade 
Plane  1 75 3 1 
2 50 2 1 
Lower than 2  Not Allowed  Not Allowed  Not Allowed  
a.%age shall be of the maximum allowable quantity per control area shown in Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2) of the VCC, with 
all increases allowed in the notes to those tables.  
b. Separation shall include fire barriers and horizontal assemblies as necessary to provide separation from other portions of  
the building.  
  
Table 302.6.1(2)  
Design and Number of Control Areas in Existing Buildings Not Equipped Throughout with an Automatic Sprinkler System in 
Accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the VCC with Group B Teaching and Research Laboratories in Educational 
Occupancies above the 12th Grade  
Floor Level  %age of the 
Maximum Allowable 
Quantity per Control 
Areaa Number of Control 
Areas per Floor  Fire-Resistance 
Rating for Fire 
Barriers and 
Horizontal 
Assemblies in Hoursb 
Above Grade Plane  Higher than 9  5 1 2 
7-9 10 2 2 
4-6 25 2 2 
3 75 2 1 
2 100 3 1 Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1895 1 100 4 1 
Below Grade Plane  1 75 3 1 
2 50 2 1 
Lower than 2  Not Allowed  Not Allowed  Not Allowed  
a.%age shall be of the maximum allowable quantity per control area shown in Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2) of the VCC, with 
all increases allowed in the notes to those tables.  
b. Separation shall include fire barriers and horizontal assemblies as necessary to provide separation from other portions of  
the building.  
302.6.1.1 Automatic fire alarm and detection systems. An 
automatic fire alarm system shall be provided throughout 
the building in accordance with Section 907 of the VCC. 
An automatic fire detection system shall be provided in the 
control area in accordance with Section 907 of the VCC 
where pyrophics or Class 4 oxidizers are used and the 
building is not equipped throughout with an automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of 
the VCC.  
302.6.1.2 System supervision and monitoring. Automatic 
fire detection systems shall be e lectronically supervised 
and monitored by an approved supervising station or, 
where approved, shall initiate an audible and visual signal 
at a constantly attended onsite location.  
302.1 Existing materials. Materials already in use in a 
building in complian ce with requirements or approvals in 
effect at the time of their erection or installation shall be 
permitted to remain in use unless the VCC would not 
permit their use in buildings or structures of similar 
occupancy, purpose, and location.  
302.2 New and re placement materials. Except as otherwise 
required or permitted by this code, materials permitted by 
the applicable code for new construction shall be used. 
Like materials shall be permitted for repairs and 
alterations, provided no hazard to life, health or  property is 
created. Hazardous materials shall not be used where the 
VCC would not permit their use in buildings or structures 
of similar occupancy, purpose, and location.  
302.3 Existing seismic force -resisting systems. Where the 
existing seismic force -resisting system is a type that can be 
designated ordinary, values of R, Ω 0, and C d for the 
existing seismic force -resisting system shall be those 
specified by the VCC for an ordinary system unless it is 
demonstrated that the existing system will provide 
performance equivalent to that of a detailed, intermediate, 
or special system.  
F. Delete Sections 302.4 and 302.5 of the IEBC.  ]  
[ G. ] Add IEBC Section 303  [ Reroofing and roof repair  
Fire escapes  ]. [ F. H. ] Add Sections 303.1 through  [ 303.7  303.6  ], 
including subsections, to the IEBC to read:  
303.1  [ Reroofing. Materials and methods of application 
used for recovering or replacing an existing roof covering 
shall comply with this section and the applicable 
requirements of Chapter 15 of the IBC.  Where pe rmitted. 
Fire escapes shall be permitted only as provided for in 
Sections 303.1.1 through 303.1.4.  
Exceptions:  
1. Roof replacement or roof recover of existing low -slope 
roof coverings shall not be required to meet the minimum 
design slope requirement of on e-quarter unit vertical in 
12 units horizontal (2% slope) in Section 1507 of the IBC 
for roofs that provide positive roof drainage.  
2. Recovering or replacing an existing roof covering shall 
not be required to meet the requirement for secondary 
(emergency overflow) drains or scuppers in Section 
1503.4 of the IBC for roofs that provide for positive roof 
drainage.  
For the purposes of this exception, existing secondary 
drainage or scupper systems required in accordance with 
the IBC shall not be removed unless they are replaced by 
secondary drains or scuppers designed and installed in 
accordance with Section 1503.4 of the IBC.  
303.1.1 Existing fire escapes. Existing fire escapes shall 
continue to be accepted as a component in the means of 
egress in existing buil dings only.  
303.1.2 New fire escapes. Newly constructed fire escapes 
for existing buildings shall be permitted only where 
exterior stairs cannot be utilized due to lot lines limiting 
stair size or due to the sidewalks, alleys, or roads at grade 
level. New fire escapes shall not incorporate ladders or 
access by windows.  
Exception: Fire escapes that are replaced or repaired shall 
only be required to comply with Sections 303.3 and 303.4 
if feasible, and if not feasible, such that the replaced or 
repaired fire  escape is not less safe than its existing 
condition.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1896  303.1.3 Limitations. Fire escapes shall comply with this 
section and shall not constitute more than 50% of the 
required number of exits nor more than 50% of the 
required exit capacity.  
303.1.4 Fire esc apes required. For other than Group I -2, 
where more than one exit is required, newly constructed 
fire escapes complying with Section 303.6 shall be 
accepted as providing one of the required means of egress. 
Replacement fire escapes or existing fire escapes  
undergoing repairs shall comply with Sections 303.3 and 
303.4 if feasible, and if not feasible, to the greatest extent 
possible.  ]  
303.2  [ Structural and construction loads. Structural roof 
components shall be capable of supporting the roof -
covering system and the material and equipment loads that 
will be encountered during installation of the system  
Location. Where located on the front of the building and 
where projecting beyond the building line, the lowest 
landing shall not be less than 7 feet (213 4 mm) or more 
than 12 feet (3658 mm) above grade, and shall be equipped 
with a counterbalanced stairway to the street. In alleyways 
and thoroughfares less than 30 feet (9144 mm) wide, the 
clearance under the lowest landing shall not be less than 12 
feet (3 658 mm)  ]. 
303.3  [ Roof replacement. Roof replacement shall include 
the removal of all existing layers of roof coverings down to 
the roof deck Construction. The fire escape shall be 
designed to support a live load of 100 pounds per square 
foot (4788 Pa) an d shall be constructed of steel or other 
approved noncombustible materials. Fire escapes 
constructed of wood not less than nominal 2 inches (51 
mm) thick are permitted on buildings of Type V 
construction. Walkways and railings located over or 
supported by combustible roofs in buildings of Types III 
and IV construction are permitted to be of wood not less 
than nominal 2 inches (51 mm) thick  ]. 
[ Exception: Where the existing roof assembly includes an 
ice barrier membrane that is adhered to the roof deck, the  
existing ice barrier membrane shall be permitted to remain 
in place and covered with an additional layer of ice barrier 
membrane in accordance with Section 1507 of the IBC.  
303.3.1 Roof recover. The installation of a new roof 
covering over an existing roo f covering shall be permitted 
where any of the following conditions occur:  
1. Complete and separate roofing systems, such as 
standing -seam metal roof systems, which are designed to 
transmit the roof loads directly to the building's structural 
system and do  not rely on existing roofs and roof 
coverings for support, shall not require the removal of 
existing roof coverings.  
2. Metal panel, metal shingle, and concrete and clay tile 
roof coverings shall be permitted to be installed over existing wood shake roofs  when applied in accordance 
with Section 706.4.  
3. The application of a new protective coating over an 
existing spray polyurethane foam roofing system shall be 
permitted without tear -off of existing roof coverings.  
4. Where the new roof covering is install ed in accordance 
with the roof covering manufacturer's approved 
instructions.  
Exceptions. A roof recover shall not be permitted where 
any of the following conditions occur:  
1. Where the existing roof or roof covering is water 
soaked or has deteriorated to the point that the existing 
roof or roof covering is not adequate as a base for 
additional roofing.  
2. Where the existing roof covering is slate, clay, cement, 
or asbestos -cement tile.  
3. Where the existing roof has two or more applications 
of any type of roof covering.  ]  
303.4  [ Roof recovering. Where the application of a new 
roof covering over wood shingle or shake roofs creates a 
combustible concealed space, the entire existing surface 
shall be covered with gypsum board, mineral fiber, glass 
fiber or ot her approved materials securely fastened in place  
Dimensions. Stairs shall be at least 22 inches (559 mm) 
wide with risers not more than, and treads not less than, 8 
inches (203 mm) and landings at the foot of stairs not less 
than 40 inches (1016 mm) wide by 36 inches (914 mm) 
long, located not more than 9 inches (203 mm) below the 
door ]. 
303.5  [ Reinstallation of materials. Existing slate, clay, or 
cement tile shall be permitted for reinstallation, except that 
damaged, cracked, or broken slate or tile sha ll not be 
reinstalled. Existing vent flashing, metal edgings, drain 
outlets, collars, and metal counterflashings shall not be 
reinstalled where rusted, damaged, or deteriorated. 
Aggregate surfacing materials shall not be reinstalled  
Opening protectives. Op enings within 10 feet (3048 mm) 
of newly constructed fire escape stairways shall be 
protected by fire assemblies having minimum 3/4 -hour-
fire-resistance ratings  ]. 
[ Exception: Opening protection shall not be required in 
buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic 
sprinkler system.  ]  
303.6 [  Flashings. Flashings shall be reconstructed in 
accordance with approved manufacturer's installation 
instructions. Metal flashing to which bituminous materials 
are to be adhered shall be primed prior to installation.  Fire 
escape access and details. Newly constructed fire escapes 
shall comply with all of the following requirements:  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1897 1. Occupants shall have unobstructed access to the fire 
escape without having to pass through a room subject to 
locking.  
2. Ac cess to a new fire escape shall be through a door, 
except that windows shall be permitted to provide access 
from single dwelling units or sleeping units in Group R -
1, R -2 and I -1 occupancies or to provide access from 
spaces having a maximum occupant load o f 10 in other 
occupancy classifications.  
2.1. The window shall have a minimum net clear opening 
of 5.7 square feet (0.53 m2) or 5 square feet (0.46 m2) 
where located at grade.  
2.2. The minimum net clear opening height shall be 24 
inches (610 mm) and net c lear opening width shall be 20 
inches (508 mm).  
2.3. The bottom of the clear opening shall not be greater 
than 44 inches (1118 mm) above the floor.  
2.4. The operation of the window shall comply with the 
operational constraints of the VCC.  
3. In all buildin gs of Group E occupancy, up to and 
including the 12th grade, buildings of Group I 
occupancy, rooming houses and child care centers, 
ladders of any type are prohibited on fire escapes used as 
a required means of egress.  
303.7 Roof repair. Roof repairs shall  comply with this 
section. Work on nondamaged components that is 
necessary for the required repair of damaged components 
shall be considered part of the roof repair and shall not be 
subject to the requirements of other parts of this code.  
Exception: Routin e maintenance required by this section, 
ordinary repairs exempt from permit in accordance with 
Section 108.2 of the VCC, and abatement of wear due to 
normal service conditions shall not be subject to the 
requirements for roof repairs in this section.  
303.7 .1 Building materials and systems. Building materials 
and systems shall comply with the requirements of 
Sections 303.7.1.1 and 303.7.1.2.  
303.7.1.1 Existing materials. Materials already in use in a 
building in compliance with requirements or approvals in 
effect at the time of its erection or installation shall be 
permitted to remain in use unless determined by the 
building official to be unsafe.  
303.7.1.2 New and replacement materials. Except as 
otherwise required or permitted by this code, materials 
permit ted by the applicable code for new construction shall 
be used. Like materials shall be permitted for repairs, 
provided no hazard to life, health, or property is created. 
Hazardous materials shall not be used where the code for 
new construction would not pe rmit their use in buildings of 
similar occupancy, purpose and location.  I. Add IEBC Section 304 Glass replacement and 
replacement windows.  
J. Add Sections 304.1 through 304.3, including subsections, 
to the IEBC to read:  
304.1 Conformance. In accordance with § 36 -99.2 of the 
Code of Virginia, any replacement glass installed in 
buildings constructed prior to the first edition of the USBC 
shall meet the quality and installation standards for glass 
installed in new buildings as are in effect at the time of 
installation. In addition, as a requirement of this code, the 
installation or replacement of glass in buildings 
constructed under any edition of the USBC shall be as 
required for new installations.  
304.2 Replacement window opening devices. In Group R -2 
or R -3 buildings containing dwelling units, window 
opening control devices complying with ASTM F 2090 
shall be installed where an existing window is replaced and 
where all of the following apply to the replacement 
window:  
1. The window is operable;  
2. The wind ow replacement includes replacement of the 
sash and the frame;  
3. The top of the sill of the window opening is at a height 
less than 36 inches (915 mm) above the finished floor;  
4. The window will permit openings that will allow 
passage of a 4 -inch diamete r (102 mm) sphere when the 
window is in its largest opened position; and  
5. The vertical distance from the top of the sill of the 
window opening to the finished grade or other surface 
below, on the exterior of the building, is greater than 72 
inches (1829 mm).  
The window opening control device, after operation to 
release the control device allowing the window to fully 
open, shall not reduce the minimum net clear opening area 
of the window unit to less than the area required by Section 
1029.2 of the VCC.  
Exceptions:  
1. Operable windows where the top of the sill of the 
window opening is located more than 75 feet (22 860 
mm) above the finished grade or other surface below, on 
the exterior of the room, space or building, and that are 
provided with window fall p revention devices that 
comply with ASTM F 2006.  
2. Operable windows with openings that are provided 
with window fall prevention devices that comply with 
ASTM F 2090.  
304.3 Replacement window emergency escape and rescue 
openings. Where windows are required to provide 
emergency escape and rescue openings in Groups R -2 and Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1898  R-3 occupancies, replacement windows shall be exempt 
from the requirements of Sections 1030.2, 1030.3, and 
1030.5 provided the replacement window meets the 
following conditions:  
1. The repla cement window is the manufacturer's largest 
standard size window that will fit within the existing 
frame or existing rough opening. The replacement 
window shall be permitted to be 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 of the window is not part of a change 
of occupancy.  
K. Add IEBC Section 305 Seismic force -resisting systems.  
L. Add Sections 305.1 and 305.2, including subsections, to  
the IEBC to read:  
305.1 General. Where this code requires consideration of 
the seismic force -resisting system of an existing building 
subject to repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition 
or relocation of existing buildings, the seismic evaluation 
and design shall be based on Section 305.2 regardless of 
which compliance method is used.  
305.2 Seismic evaluation and design procedures. The 
seismic evaluation and design shall be based on the 
procedures specified in the VCC or ASCE 41. The 
procedures con tained in Appendix A of this code shall be 
permitted to be used as specified in Section 305.2.2.  
305.2.1 Compliance with VCC -level seismic forces. Where 
compliance with the seismic design provisions of the VCC 
is required, the criteria shall be in accordan ce with one of 
the following:  
1. 100% of the values in the VCC. Where the existing 
seismic force -resisting system is a type that can be 
designated as "Ordinary," values of R, Ω 0, and C d used 
for analysis in accordance with Chapter 16 of the VCC 
shall be th ose specified for structural systems classified 
as "Ordinary" in accordance with Table 12.2 -1 of ASCE 
7, unless it can be demonstrated that the structural system 
will provide performance equivalent to that of a 
"Detailed," "Intermediate" or "Special" syste m. 
2. ASCE 41, using a Tier 3 procedure and the two level 
performance objective in Table 305.2.1 for the applicable 
risk category.  
  Table 305.2.1  
Performance Objectives for Use in ASCE 41 for Compliance with  
VCC -Level Seismic Forces  
Risk Category  
(Based on VCC 
Table 1604.5)  Structural 
Performance Level 
for Use with BSE -
1E Earthquake 
Hazard Level  Structural 
Performance Level 
for Use with BSE -
2N Earthquake 
Hazard Level  
I Life Safety (S -3) Collapse 
Prevention (S -5) 
II Life Safety (S -3) Collapse 
Prevention (S-5) 
III Damage Control (S -2) Limited Safety (S -4) 
IV Immediate 
Occupancy (S -1) Life Safety (S -3) 
305.2.2 Compliance with reduced VCC -level seismic 
forces. Where seismic evaluation and design is permitted 
to meet reduced VCC seismic force levels, the c riteria used 
shall be in accordance with one of the following:  
1. The VCC using 75% of the prescribed forces. Values 
of R, Ω 0 and C d used for analysis shall be as specified in 
Section 305.2.1 of this code.  
2. Structures or portions of structures that compl y with 
the requirements of the applicable chapter in Appendix A 
as specified in Items 2.1 through 2.5 and subject to the 
limitations of the respective Appendix A chapters shall 
be deemed to comply with this section.  
2.1. The seismic evaluation and design of unreinforced 
masonry bearing wall buildings in Risk Category I or II 
are permitted to be based on the procedures specified in 
Appendix Chapter A1.  
2.2. Seismic evaluation and design of the wall anchorage 
system in reinforced concrete and reinforced maso nry 
wall buildings with flexible diaphragms in Risk Category 
I or II are permitted to be based on the procedures 
specified in Chapter A2.  
2.3. Seismic evaluation and design of cripple walls and 
sill plate anchorage in residential buildings of light -frame 
wood construction in Risk Category I or II are permitted 
to be based on the procedures specified in Chapter A3.  
2.4. Seismic evaluation and design of soft, weak, or 
open -front wall conditions in multiunit residential 
buildings of wood construction in Risk C ategory I or II 
are permitted to be based on the procedures specified in 
Chapter A4.  
2.5. Seismic evaluation and design of concrete buildings 
assigned to Risk Category I, II, or III are permitted to be 
based on the procedures specified in Chapter A5.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1899 3. AS CE 41, using the performance objective in Table 
305.2.2 for the applicable risk category.  
Table 305.2.2  
Performance Objectives for Use in ASCE 41 for Compliance with 
Reduced VCC -Level Seismic Forces  
Risk Category  
(Based on VCC Table 
1604.5)  Structural Per formance Level 
for Use with BSE -1E 
Earthquake Hazard Level  
I Life Safety (S -3) 
II Life Safety (S -3) 
III Damage Control (S -2a)  
IV Immediate Occupancy (S -1) 
a. Tier 1 evaluation at the Damage Control performance level shall 
use the Tier 1 Life Safety checklists and Tier 1 Quick Check 
provision midway between those specified for Life Safety and 
Immediate Occupancy performance  
M. Add IEBC Section 306 Group B teaching and research 
laboratories.  
N. Add Section 306.1, including subsections, to the IEBC to 
read:  
306.1 Change of occupancy in existing Group B teaching 
and research laboratories. Where the use of new or 
different hazardous materials or a change in the amount 
of hazardous materials in existing Group B testing and 
research laboratories in educatio nal occupancies above 
the 12th grade would constitute a change of occupancy, 
this section shall be permitted to be used as an acceptable 
alternative to compliance with change of occupancy 
requirements to permit the increased amounts of 
hazardous materials stipulated without the laboratories 
being classified as Group H. In addition, as set out in 
Section 5001.7 of the SFPC, approval under this section 
is contingent upon operational requirements in the SFPC 
being complied with and maintained.  
306.1.1 Hazardou s materials in existing Group B 
teaching and research laboratories. The percentage of 
maximum allowable quantities of hazardous materials 
per control area and the number of control areas 
permitted at each floor level within an existing building 
shall be pe rmitted to comply with Table 302.6.1(1) in 
buildings equipped throughout with an automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of 
the VCC or shall be permitted to comply with Table 
302.6.1(2) in buildings not equipped throughout with an 
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 
903.3.1.1 of the VCC.  Table 306.1.1(1)  
Design and Number of Control Areas in Existing Buildings 
Equipped throughout with an Automatic Sprinkler System in 
Accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the VCC with  Group B 
Teaching and Research Laboratories in Educational Occupancies 
above the 12th Grade  
Floor Level  Percentage 
of the 
Maximum 
Allowable 
Quantity 
per 
Control 
Areaa Number 
of 
Control 
Areas 
per 
Floor  Fire-
Resistance 
Rating for 
Fire 
Barriers 
and 
Horizontal 
Assemblies 
in Hoursb 
Above 
Grade 
Plane  Higher 
than 20  
10-20 
7-9 
4-6 
3 
2 
1 5 
10 
25 
50 
75 
100 
100 1 
1 
2 
2 
2 
3 
4 2 
2 
2 
2 
1 
1 
1 
Below 
Grade 
Plane  1 
2 
Lower 
than 2  75 
50 
Not 
Allowed  3 
2 
Not 
Allowed  1 
1 
Not 
Allowed  
a. Percentage shall be of the maximum allowable quantity per 
control area shown in Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2) of the VCC, 
with all increases allowed in the notes to those tables.  
b. Separation shall include fire barriers and horizontal assemblies 
as necessary to provide separation fr om other portions of the 
building.  
  
Table 306.1.1(2)  
Design and Number of Control Areas in Existing Buildings Not 
Equipped throughout with an Automatic Sprinkler System in 
Accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the VCC with Group B 
Teaching and Research Laboratories in Educational Occupancies 
above the 12th Grade  
Floor Level  Percentage 
of the 
Maximum 
Allowable 
Quantity 
per Control 
Areaa Number 
of 
Control 
Areas 
per 
Floor  Fire-
Resistance 
Rating for 
Fire 
Barriers 
and 
Horizontal 
Assemblies 
in Hoursb Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1900  Above 
Grade 
Plane  Higher 
than 9  
7-9 
4-6 
3 
2 
1 5 
10 
25 
75 
100 
100 1 
2 
2 
2 
3 
4 2 
2 
2 
1 
1 
1 
Below 
Grade 
Plane  1 
2 
Lower 
than 2  75 
50 
Not 
Allowed  3 
2 
Not 
Allowed  1 
1 
Not 
Allowed  
a. Percentage shall be of the maximum allowable quantity per 
control area shown in Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2) of the VCC, 
with all increases allowed in the notes to those tables.  
b. Separation shall include fire barriers and horizontal assemblies 
as necessary to provide separation from other portions of the 
building.  
306.1.2 Automatic  fire alarm and detection systems. An 
automatic fire alarm system shall be provided throughout 
the building in accordance with Section 907 of the VCC. 
An automatic fire detection system shall be provided in the 
control area in accordance with Section 907 o f the VCC 
where pyrophics or Class 4 oxidizers are used and the 
building is not equipped throughout with an automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of 
the VCC.  
306.1.3 System supervision and monitoring. Automatic fire 
detection syst ems shall be electronically supervised and 
monitored by an approved supervising station or, where 
approved, shall initiate an audible and visual signal at a 
constantly attended onsite location.  
O. Add IEBC Section 307 Reroofing and roof repair.  
P. Add Sect ions 307.1 through 307.7, including subsections, 
to the IEBC to read:  
307.1 Reroofing. Materials and methods of application 
used for recovering or replacing an existing roof covering 
shall comply with this section and the applicable 
requirements of Chapter  15 of the VCC.  
Exceptions:  
1. Roof replacement of roof recover of existing low -slope 
roof coverings shall not be required to meet the minimum 
design slope requirement of one -quarter unit vertical in 
12 units horizontal (2% slope) in Section 1507 of the 
VCC for roofs that provide positive roof drainage.  
2. Recovering or replacing an existing roof covering shall 
not be required to meet the requirement of secondary 
(emergency overflow) drains or scuppers in Section 1503.4 of the VCC for roofs that provide f or positive 
roof drainage. For the purposes of this exception, existing 
secondary drainage or scupper systems required in 
accordance with the VCC shall not be removed unless 
they are replaced by secondary drains or scuppers 
designed and installed in accord ance with Section 1503.4 
of the VCC.  
307.2 Structural and construction loads. Structural roof 
components shall be capable of supporting the roof 
covering system and the material and equipment loads that 
will be encountered during installation of the system . 
307.3 Roof replacement. Roof replacement shall include 
the removal of all existing layers of roof coverings down to 
the roof deck.  
Exception: Where the existing roof assembly includes an 
ice barrier membrane that is adhered to the roof deck, the 
existing  ice barrier membrane shall be permitted to remain 
in place and covered with an additional layer of ice barrier 
membrane in accordance with Section 1507 of the VCC.  
307.3.1 Roof recover. The installation of a new roof 
covering over an existing roof coverin g shall be permitted 
where any of the following conditions occur:  
1. Complete and separate roofing systems, such as 
standing -seam metal roof systems, that are designed to 
transmit the roof loads directly to the building's structural 
system and that do not rely on existing roofs and roof 
coverings for support, shall not require the removal of 
exiting roof coverings.  
2. Metal panel, metal shingle and concrete and clay tile 
roof coverings shall be permitted to be installed over 
existing wood shake roofs when applied in accordance 
with Section 307.4.  
3. The application of a new protective coating over an 
existing spray polyurethane foam roofing system shall be 
permitted without tear -off of existing roof coverings.  
4. Where the new roof covering is installed in  accordance 
with the roof covering manufacturer's approved 
instructions.  
Exceptions. A roof recover shall not be permitted where 
any of the following conditions occur:  
1. Where the existing roof or roof covering is water 
soaked or has deteriorated to the p oint that the existing 
roof or roof covering is not adequate as a base for 
additional roofing.  
2. Where the existing roof covering is slate, clay, cement, 
or asbestos -cement tile.  
3. Where the existing roof has two or more applications 
of any type of roof covering.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1901 307.4 Roof recovering. Where the application of a new 
roof covering over wood shingle or shake roofs creates a 
combustible concealed space, the entire existing surface 
shall be covered with gypsum board, mineral fiber, glass 
fiber or other approved materials securely fastened in 
place.  
307.5 Reinstallation of materials. Existing slate, clay, or 
cement tile shall be permitted for reinstallation, except that 
damaged, cracke d or broken slate or tile shall not be 
reinstalled. Existing vent flashing, metal edgings, drain 
outlets, collars, and metal counter -flashings shall not be 
reinstalled where rusted, damaged, or deteriorated. 
Aggregate surfacing materials shall not be reins talled.  
307.6 Flashings. Flashings shall be reconstructed in 
accordance with approved manufacturer's installation 
instructions. Metal flashing to which bituminous materials 
are to be adhered shall be primed prior to installation.  
307.7 Roof repair. Roof re pairs shall comply with this 
section. Work on nondamaged components that is 
necessary for the required repair of damaged components 
shall be considered part of the roof repair and shall not be 
subject to the requirements of other parts of this code.  
Excep tion: Routine maintenance required by this section, 
ordinary repairs exempt from permit in accordance with 
Section 108.2 of the VCC, and abatement of wear due to 
normal service conditions shall not be subject to the 
requirements for roof repairs in this se ction.  
307.7.1 Building materials and systems. Building materials 
and systems shall comply with the requirements of 
Sections 307.7.1.1 and 307.7.1.2.  
307.7.1.1 Existing materials. Materials already in use in a 
building in compliance with requirements or a pprovals in 
effect at the time of their erection or installation shall be 
permitted to remain in use unless determined by the 
building official to be unsafe.  
307.7.1.2 New and replacement materials. Except as 
otherwise required or permitted by this code, m aterials 
permitted by the applicable code for new construction shall 
be used. Like materials shall be permitted for repairs, 
provided no hazard to life, health or property is created. 
Hazardous materials shall not be used where the code for 
new constructio n would not permit their use in buildings of 
similar occupancy, purpose and location.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-432.5. Chapter 4  [ Prescriptive compliance 
method  Accessibility  ]. 
[ Delete Section 409 of the IEBC in its entirety.  
A. Change IEBC Section 401 to General.  
B. Change Section 401.1 of the IEBC to read:  401.1 Scope. The applicable provisions of this chapter 
shall apply to all construction and rehabilitation.  
C. Delete Sections 401.1.1 through 401.3.  
D. Change IEBC Section 402 of Change of Occupancy.  
E. Change S ections 402.1 through 402.3 of the IEBC to 
read:  
402.1 Change of occupancy. Existing buildings or 
structures that undergo a change of occupancy shall 
comply with this section.  
Exception: Type B dwelling or sleeping units required by 
Section 1107 of the VCC  are not required to be provided in 
existing buildings and facilities undergoing a change of 
occupancy in conjunction with alterations where the work 
area is 50% or less of the aggregate area of the building.  
402.2 Partial change in occupancy. Where a port ion of the 
building is changed to a new occupancy classification, 
additional accessible features are not required due to the 
change of occupancy.  
402.3 Complete change of occupancy. Where an entire 
building undergoes a change of occupancy classification, it 
shall have all of the following accessible features:  
1. At least one accessible building entrance.  
2. At least one accessible route from an accessible 
building entrance to primary function areas.  
3. Signage complying with Section 1111 of the VCC.  
4. Accessible parking, where parking is being provided.  
5. At least one accessible passenger loading zone, when 
loading zones are provided.  
6. At least one accessible route connecting accessible 
parking and accessible passenger loading zones to an 
accessible entrance.  
Where it is technically infeasible to comply with the new 
construction standards for any of these requirements of a 
change of occupancy, Items 1 through 6 shall conform to 
the requirements to the maximum extent technically 
feasible.  
Exception: The accessible features listed in Items 1 
through 6 are not required for an accessible route to Type 
B units.  
F. Delete Sections 402.3.1, 402.4 and 402.5 of the IEBC.  
G. Change IEBC Section 403 to Additions.  
H. Change Sections 403.1 through 403.3 of the IEBC to 
read:  
403.1 Additions. Accessibility provisions for new 
construction shall apply to additions. An addition that 
affects the accessibility to, or contains an area of, a primary Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1902  function shall comply with the requirements in Section 
410.7, as applicable.  
403.2 Accessible dwelling units and sleeping units. Where 
Group I -1, I-2, I-3, R-1, R-2, or R -4 dwelling or sleeping 
units are being added, the requirements of Section 1107 of 
the VCC for accessible units apply only to the quantity of 
spaces being added.  
403.3 Type A dwelling or sleeping units. Where more than 
20 Group R -2 dwelling or sleeping units are being added, 
the requirements of Section 1107 of the VCC for Type A 
units and Chapter 9 of the VCC for visible alarms apply 
only to the q uantity of the spaces being added.  
I. Delete Section 403.3.1.  
J. Change Section 403.4 of the IEBC to read:  
403.4 Type B dwelling or sleeping units. Where four or 
more Group I -1, I-2, R -1, R -2, R -3, or R -4 dwelling or 
sleeping units are being added, the re quirements of 
Section1107 of the VCC for Type B units and Chapter 9 of 
the VCC for visible alarms apply only to the quantity of 
spaces being added.  
K. Delete Sections 403.4.1 through 403.11, including 
subsections, of the IEBC.  
L. Change IEBC Section 404 t o Alterations.  
M. Change Sections 404.1 through 404.4.15, including 
subsections, of the IEBC to read:  
404.1 General. An alteration of an existing facility shall 
not impose a requirement for greater accessibility than that 
which would be required for new co nstruction. Alterations 
shall not reduce or have the effect of reducing accessibility 
of a facility or portion of a facility.  
404.2 Alterations. A facility that is altered shall comply 
with the applicable provisions in this section and Chapter 
11 of the V CC, except as modified by Sections 404.3 and 
404.4, unless technically infeasible. Where compliance 
with this section is technically infeasible, the alteration 
shall provide access to the maximum extent technically 
feasible.  
Exceptions:  
1. The altered el ement or space is not required to be on 
an accessible route, unless required by Section 404.3.  
2. Accessible means of egress required by Chapter 10 of 
the VCC are not required to be provided in existing 
facilities.  
3. The alteration to Type A individually  owned dwelling 
units within a Group R -2 occupancy shall be permitted to 
meet the provision for a Type B dwelling unit.  
4. Type B dwelling or sleeping units required by Section 
1107 of the VCC are not required to be provided in existing buildings and facil ities undergoing a change of 
occupancy in conjunction with alterations where the 
work area is 50% or less of the aggregate area of the 
building.  
404.3 Alterations affecting an area containing a primary 
function. Where an alteration affects the accessibili ty to, or 
contains an area of primary function, the route to the 
primary function area shall be accessible. The accessible 
route to the primary function area shall include toilet 
facilities and drinking fountains that shall also be 
accessible to and useabl e by individuals with disabilities, 
serving the area of primary function.  
Exceptions:  
1. The costs of providing the accessible route are not 
required to exceed 20% of the costs of the alterations 
affecting the area of primary function.  
2. This provision d oes not apply to alterations limited 
solely to windows, hardware, operating controls, 
electrical outlets and signs.  
3. This provision does not apply to alterations limited 
solely to mechanical systems, electrical systems, 
installation or alteration of fir e protection systems and 
abatement of hazardous materials.  
4. This provision does not apply to alterations undertaken 
for the primary purpose of increasing the accessibility of 
a facility.  
5. This provision does not apply to altered areas limited 
to Type  B dwelling and sleeping units.  
404.4 Scoping for alterations. The provisions of Sections 
404.4.1 through 404.4.14 shall apply to alterations to 
existing buildings and facilities.  
404.4.1 Entrances. Where an alteration includes alterations 
to an entrance,  and the facility has an accessible entrance 
on an accessible route, the altered entrance is not required 
to be accessible unless required by Section 404.3. Signs 
complying with Section 1111 of the VCC shall be 
provided.  
Exception: Where an alteration incl udes alterations to an 
entrance, and the facility has an accessible entrance, the 
altered entrance is not required to be accessible, unless 
required by Section 410.7. Signs complying with Section 
1111 of the VCC shall be provided.  
404.4.2 Elevators. Alter ed elements of existing elevators 
shall comply with ASME A17.1/CSA B44 and ICC 
A117.1. Such elements shall also be altered in elevators 
programmed to respond to the same hall call control as the 
altered elevator.  
404.4.3 Platform lifts. Platform (wheelchai r) lifts 
complying with ICC A117.1 and installed in accordance Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1903 with ASME A18.1 shall be permitted as a component of an 
accessible route.  
404.4.4 Stairways and escalators. In alterations, change of 
occupancy or additions where an escalator or stairway is 
added where none existed previously and major structural 
modifications are necessary for installation, an accessible 
route shall be provided between the levels served by the 
escalator or stairways in accordance with Section 1104.4 of 
the VCC.  
404.4.5 Ramps.  Where steeper slopes than allowed by 
Section 1012.2 of the VCC are necessitated by space 
limitations, the slope of ramps in or providing access to 
existing facilities shall comply with Table 404.4.5.  
Table 404.4.5  
Ramps  
Slope  Maximum Rise  
Steeper than 1:10 but not 
steeper than 1:8  3 inches  
Steeper than 1:12 but not 
steeper than 1:10  6 inches  
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm  
404.4.6 Accessible dwelling or sleeping units. Where 
Group I -1, I-2, I-3, R-1, R-2, or R -4 dwelling or sleeping 
units are being altered,  the requirements of Section 1107 of 
the VCC for Accessible units apply only to the quantity of 
the spaces being altered.  
404.4.7 Type A dwelling or sleeping units. Where more 
than 20 Group R -2 dwelling or sleeping units are being 
altered, the requirements  of Section 1107 of the VCC for 
Type A units and Chapter 9 of the VCC for visible alarms 
apply only to the quantity of the spaces being altered.  
404.4.8 Type B dwelling or sleeping units. Where four or 
more Group I -1, I-2, R -1, R -2, R -3, or R -4 dwelling or  
sleeping units are being altered and where the work area is 
greater than 50% of the aggregate area of the building, the 
requirements of Section 1107 of the VCC for Type B units 
and Chapter 9 of the VCC for visible Alarms apply only to 
the quantity of the spaces being altered.  
Exceptions: Group I -1, I-2, R-2, R-3, and R -4 dwelling or 
sleeping units where the first certificate of occupancy was 
issued before March 15, 1991, are not required to provide 
Type B dwelling or sleeping units.  
404.4.9 Jury boxes and  witness stands. In alterations, 
accessible wheelchair spaces are not required to be located 
within the defined area of raised jury boxes or witness 
stands and shall be permitted to be located outside these 
spaces where ramp or lift access poses a hazard b y 
restricting or projecting into a required means of egress.  404.4.10 Toilet rooms. Where it is technically infeasible to 
alter existing toilet and bathing rooms to be accessible, an 
accessible family or assisted -use toilet or bathing room 
constructed in a ccordance with Section 1109.2.1 of the 
VCC is permitted. The family or assisted -use toilet or 
bathing room shall be located on the same floor and in the 
same area as the existing toilet or bathing rooms. At the 
inaccessible toilet and bathing rooms, provid e directional 
signs indicating the location of the nearest family or 
assisted -use toilet room or bathing room. These directional 
signs shall include the International Symbol of 
Accessibility and sign characters shall meet the visual 
character requirements in accordance with ICC A117.1.  
404.4.11 Dressing, fitting and locker rooms. Where it is 
technically infeasible to provide accessible dressing, fitting 
or locker rooms at the same location as similar types of 
rooms, one accessible room on the same level shall be 
provided. Where separate -sex facilities are provided, 
accessible rooms for each sex shall be provided. Separate 
sex facilities are not required where only unisex rooms are 
provided.  
404.4.12 Fuel dispensers. Operable parts of replacement 
fuel dispensers shall be permitted to be 5 4 inches (1370 
mm) maximum, measuring from the surface of the 
vehicular way where fuel dispensers are installed on 
existing curbs.  
404.4.13 Thresholds. The maximum height of thresholds at 
doorways shall be 3/4 inch (19.1 mm). Such thresholds 
shall have be veled edges on each side.  
404.4.14 Amusement rides. Where the structural or 
operational characteristics of an amusement ride are altered 
to the extent that the amusement ride’s performance differs 
from that specified by the manufacturer or the original 
design, the amusement ride shall comply with requirements 
for new construction in Section 1110.4.8 of the VCC.  
404.4.15 Dining areas. An accessible route to raised or 
sunken dining areas or to outdoor seating areas is not 
required provided that the same serv ices and décor are 
provided in an accessible space usable by any occupant 
and not restricted to use by people with a disability.  
N. Delete Sections 404.2.1, 404.3.1 and 404.5 of the IEBC.  
O. Change Section 405 to Historic Buildings.  
P. Change Section 405. 1, including subsections, to read:  
405.1 General. These provisions shall apply to facilities 
designated as historic buildings or structures that undergo 
alterations or a change of occupancy, unless technically 
infeasible. Where compliance with the requirem ents for 
accessible routes, entrances or toilet rooms would threaten 
or destroy the historic significance of the facility, the 
alternative requirements of Sections 405.1.1 through 
405.1.4 for that element shall be permitted.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1904  Exception: Type B dwelling or s leeping units required by 
Section 1107 of the VCC are not required to be provided in 
historical buildings.  
405.1.1 Site arrival points. At least one accessible route 
from a site arrival point to an accessible entrance shall be 
provided.  
405.1.2 Multileve l buildings and facilities. An accessible 
route from an accessible entrance to public spaces on the 
level of the accessible entrance shall be provided . 
405.1.3 Entrances. At least one main entrance shall be 
accessible.  
Exceptions:  
1. If a main entrance cannot be made accessible, an 
accessible nonpublic entrance that is unlocked while the 
building is occupied shall be provided; or  
2. If a main entrance cannot be made accessible, a locked 
accessible entrance with a notification system or remote 
monitoring shall be provided.  
Signs complying with Section 1111 of the VCC shall be 
provided at the primary entrance and the accessible 
entrance.  
405.1.4 Toilet and bathing facilities. Where toilet rooms 
are provided, at least one accessible family or assisted -use 
toilet room complying with Section 1109.2.1 of the VCC 
shall be provided.  
Q. Delete Sections 405.2 through 405.5 of the IEBC.  
R. Delete Sections 406, 407, 408, 409 and 410 of the IEBC 
in their entirety.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-433. Chapter 5  [ Classification of work  
Repairs  ]. 
A. Change Section 501.1  [ and 501.2  ] of the IEBC to read:  
501.1 Scope.  [ The provisions of this chapter shall be used 
in conjunction with Chapters 6 through 12 and shall apply 
to the alteration, repair, addition and change of occupancy 
of existi ng structures, including historic structures, as 
referenced in Section 301.1.2. The work performed on an 
existing building shall be classified in accordance with this 
chapter.  Repairs, including the patching or restoration or 
replacement of damaged materia ls, elements, equipment or 
fixtures for the purpose of maintaining such components in 
good or sound condition with respect to existing loads or 
performance requirements, shall comply with the 
requirements of this chapter. Repairs to historic buildings 
need  only comply with Chapter 9. Portions of the existing 
building or structure not being repaired shall not be 
required to comply with the requirements of this code 
applicable to newly constructed buildings or structures. 
Work on nondamaged components that is  necessary for the 
required repair of damaged components shall be considered part of the repair and shall not be subject to the 
provisions of Chapter 6, 7 or 8. Routine maintenance 
required by Section 302, ordinary repairs exempt from 
permit in accordance with Section 108.2 of the VCC, and 
abatement of wear due to normal service conditions shall 
not be subject to the requirements for repairs in this 
section.  
Exception: Repairs complying with the requirements of the 
building code under which the building or structure or the 
affected portions thereof was built, or as previously 
approved by the building official, shall be considered in 
compliance with the provisions of this code, unless the 
building or structure or the affected portions thereof is 
undergoing a substantial structural alteration as described 
in Section 604.7.1. New structural members added as part 
of the alteration or repairs shall comply with the VCC. 
Repairs of existing buildings in flood hazard areas shall 
comply with Section 503.  
501.2 Conform ance. The work shall not make the building 
less conforming that it was before the repair was 
undertaken. Repairs shall be done in a manner that 
maintains the following:  
1. Level of fire protection that is existing.  
2. Level of protection that is existing f or the means of 
egress.  
3. Level of accessibility that is existing.  ]  
B. [ Delete Section 501.1.1.  
C. ] Change Section  [ 504.1  502 to Structural.  
D. Change Sections 502.1 and 502.2, including 
subsections,  ] of the IEBC to read:  
[ 502.1 General. Structura l repairs shall be in compliance 
with this section and Section 501.2. Regardless of the 
scope of repair, new structural members and connections 
used for repair or rehabilitation shall comply with the 
detailing provisions of the VCC for new buildings of 
similar structure, purpose and location.  
502.2 Repairs to damaged buildings. Repairs to damaged 
buildings shall comply with this section.  
502.2.1 Less than substantial structural damage. For 
damage less than substantial structural damage, repairs 
shall be al lowed that restore the building to its predamage 
state. New structural members and connection used for this 
repair shall comply with the detailing provisions of the 
VCC for new buildings of similar structure, purpose, and 
location.  
502.2.2 Substantial stru ctural damage to vertical elements 
of the lateral force -resisting system. A building that has 
sustained substantial structural damage to the vertical 
elements of its lateral force -resisting system shall be Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1905 evaluated in accordance with Section 502.2.2.1 and  either 
repaired in accordance with Section 502.2.2. or repaired 
and rehabilitated in accordance with Section 502.2.2.3, 
depending on the results of the evaluation.  
Exceptions:  
1. Buildings assigned to Seismic Design Category A, B, 
or C whose substantial structural damage was not caused 
by earthquake need not be evaluated or rehabilitated for 
load combinations that include earthquake effects.  
2. One -family and two -family dwellin gs need not be 
evaluated or rehabilitated for load combinations that 
include earthquake effects.  
502.2.2.1 Evaluation. The building shall be evaluated by a 
registered design professional, and the evaluation findings 
shall be submitted to the building offi cial. The evaluation 
shall establish whether the damaged building if repaired to 
its predamage state, would comply with the provisions of 
the VCC for load combinations that include wind or 
earthquake effects, except that the seismic forces shall be 
the red uced VCC -level seismic forces.  
Wind loads for this evaluation shall be those prescribed in 
Section 1609 of the VCC. Earthquake loads for this 
evaluation, if required, shall be permitted to be 75% of 
those prescribed in Section 1613 of the VCC. 
Alternativel y, compliance with ASCE 41, using the 
performance objective in Table 305.2.2 for the applicable 
risk category, shall be deemed to meet the earthquake 
evaluation requirement.  
502.2.2.2 Extent of repair for noncompliant buildings. If 
the evaluation establishes that the building in its 
predamage condition complies with the provisions of 
Section 502.2.2.1, then repairs shall be permitted that 
restore the building to its predamage state.  
502.2.2.3 Extent of repair for noncompliant buildings. If 
the eval uation does not establish that the building in its 
predamage condition complies with the provisions of 
Section 502.2.2.1, then the building shall be rehabilitated 
to comply with the provisions of this section. The wind 
loads for the repair shall be as requ ired by the building 
code in effect at the time of original construction, unless 
the damage was caused by wind, in which case the wind 
loads shall be in accordance with the VCC. The earthquake 
loads for this rehabilitation design shall be those required 
by the building code in effect at the time of original 
construction, but not less than the reduced VCC -level 
seismic forces. New structural members and connections 
required by this rehabilitation design shall comply with the 
detailing provisions of the VCC f or new buildings of 
similar structure, purpose and location. Alternatively, 
compliance with ASCE 41, using the performance 
objective in Table 305.2.2 for the applicable risk category, shall be deemed to meet the earthquake rehabilitation 
requirement.  
502.2 .3 Substantial structural damage to gravity load -
carrying components. Gravity load -carrying components 
that have sustained substantial structural damage shall be 
rehabilitated to comply with the applicable provisions for 
dead and live loads in the VCC. Sno w loads shall be 
considered if the substantial structural damage was caused 
by or related to snow load effects. Existing gravity load 
carrying structural elements shall be permitted to be 
designed for live loads approved prior to the damage. If the 
approve d live load is less than that required by Section 
1607 of the VCC, the area designed for the nonconforming 
live load shall be posted with placards of approved design 
indicating the approved live load. Nondamaged gravity 
load-carrying components that receiv e dead, live, or snow 
loads from rehabilitated components shall also be 
rehabilitated if required to comply with the design loads of 
the rehabilitation design, or shown to have the capacity to 
carry the design loads of the rehabilitation design. New 
struct ural members and connections required by this 
rehabilitation design shall comply with the detailing 
provisions of the VCC for new buildings of similar 
structure purpose and location.  
502.2.3.1 Lateral force -resisting elements. Regardless of 
the level of da mage to gravity elements of the lateral force -
resisting system, if substantial structural damage to gravity 
load-carrying components was caused primarily by wind or 
earthquake effects, then the building shall be evaluated in 
accordance with Section 502.2.2 .1 and, if noncompliant, 
rehabilitated in accordance with Section 502.2.2.3.  
Exceptions:  
1. Buildings assigned to Seismic Design Category A, B, 
or C whose substantial structural damage was not caused 
by earthquake need not be evaluated or rehabilitated for  
load combinations that include earthquake effects.  
2. One -family and two -family dwellings need not be 
evaluated or rehabilitated for load combinations that 
include earthquake effects.  
E. Delete Section 502.3 of the IEBC.  
F. Change Section 503 to Flood Hazard Areas.  
G. Change Section 503.1 of the IEBC to read:  
503.1 Flood hazard areas. For buildings and structures, in 
flood hazard areas established in Section 1612.3 of the 
VCC, or Section R322 of the International Residential 
Code, as applicable, any rep air that constitutes substantial 
improvement or repair of substantial damage of the 
existing building or structure shall comply with the flood 
design requirements for new construction and all aspects of 
the existing building or structure shall be brought i nto Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1906  compliance with the requirements for new construction for 
flood design.  
For buildings and structures in flood hazard areas 
established in Section 1612.3 of the VCC, or Section R322 
of the International Residential Code, as applicable, any 
repairs do no t constitute substantial improvement or repair 
of substantial damage of the existing building or structure 
are not required to comply with the flood design 
requirements for new construction.  
H. Delete Section 503.2 of the IEBC.  
I. Change Section 504 to Ele ctrical.  
B. J. ] Change Section 504.1 of the IEBC to read:  
504.1  [ Scope. Level 2 alterations include the addition or 
elimination of any door or window, the reconfiguration or 
extension of any system, or the installation of any 
additional equipment and sha ll apply where the work area 
is less than 50% of the building area  Material. Existing 
electrical wiring and equipment undergoing repair shall be 
allowed to be repaired or replaced with like material  ]. 
[ C. Add Section 505.1.1 to the IEBC to read:  
505.1.1 Special provisions. A building separated 
horizontally in compliance with VCC Section 510.2 shall 
be considered as separate and distinct buildings for the 
purpose of determining building area used for application 
of this section.  
504.1.1 Receptacles. Replac ement of electrical receptacles 
shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 
406.4(D) of NFPA 70.  
504.1.2 Plug fuses. Plug fuses of the Edison -base type 
shall be used for replacements only where there is no 
evidence of over fusing or tampering per applicable 
requirements of Section 240.51(B) of NFPA 70.  
504.1.3 Nongrounding -type receptacles. For replacement 
of nongrounding -type receptacles with grounding -type 
receptacles and for branch circuits that do not have an 
equipment grounding conductor i n the branch circuitry, the 
grounding conductor of a grounding -type receptacle outlet 
shall be permitted to be grounded to any accessible point 
on the grounding electrode system or to any accessible 
point on the grounding electrode conductor in accordance 
with Section 250.130(C) of NFPA 70.  
504.1.4 Group I -2 receptacles. Non -“hospital grade” 
receptacles in patient bed locations of Group I -2 shall be 
replaced with “hospital grade” receptacles, as required by 
NFPA 99 and Article 517 of NFPA 70.  
504.1.5 Ground ing of appliances. Frames of electric 
ranges, wall -mounted ovens, counter -mounted cooking 
units, clothes dryers and outlet or junction boxes that are 
part of the existing branch circuit for these appliances shall be permitted to be grounded to the grounded  circuit 
conductor in accordance with Section 250.140 of NFPA 
70. 
K. Delete Section 504.2 of the IEBC.  
L. Change Section 505 to Mechanical.  
M. Change Sections 505.1 and 505.2 of the IEBC to read:  
505.1 General. Existing mechanical systems undergoing 
repai r shall not make the building less conforming than it 
was before the repair was undertaken.  
505.2 Mechanical draft systems for manually fired 
appliances and fireplaces. A mechanical draft system shall 
be permitted to be used with manually fired appliances and 
fireplaces where such a system complies with all of the 
following requirements:  
1. The mechanical draft device shall be listed and 
installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s 
installation instructions.  
2. A device shall be installed that produces visible and 
audible warning upon failure of the mechanical draft 
device or loss of electrical power at any time that the 
mechanical draft device is turned on. This device shall be 
equipped with a battery backup if it receives power from 
the building wiring . 
3. A smoke detector shall be installed in the room with 
the appliance or fireplace. This device shall be equipped 
with a battery backup if it receives power from the 
building wiring.  
N. Change Section 506 to Plumbing.  
O. Change Sections 506.1 and 506.2 o f the IEBC to read:  
506.1 Materials. Plumbing materials and supplies shall not 
be used for repairs that are prohibited in the International 
Plumbing Code.  
506.2 Water closet replacement. The maximum water 
consumption flow rates and quantities for all repla ced 
water closets shall be 1.6 gallons (6 L) per flushing cycle.  
Exception: Blowout -design water closets 3.5 gallons (13 L) 
per flushing cycle.  
P. Delete Section 507 of the IEBC in its entirety.  
Q. Delete Section 508 of the IEBC in its entirety.  
D. R. ] Delete Section 509 of the IEBC in its entirety.  
[ 13VAC5 -63-433.3. Chapter 6 Alterations.  
A. Change Sections 601.1 through 601.5, including 
subsections, of the IEBC to read:  
601.1 General. Except as provided by Section 905.1 or this 
chapter, alterations to  any building or structure shall 
comply with the requirements of the VCC for new Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1907 construction. Alterations shall be such that the existing 
building or structure is no less conforming to the 
provisions of the VCC than the existing building or 
structure was prior to the alteration.  
Exceptions:  
1. Any stairway replacing an existing stairway shall not 
be required to comply with the requirements of Section 
1011 of the VCC where the existing space and 
construction does not allow a reduction in pitch or slope.  
2. Handrails otherwise required to comply with Section 
1011.11 of the VCC shall not be required to comply with 
the requirements of Section 1014.6 of the VCC regarding 
full extension of the handrails where such extensions 
would be hazardous due to plan config uration.  
3. Where the current level of safety or sanitation is 
proposed to be reduced, the portion altered shall conform 
to the requirements of the VCC.  
4. Alterations complying with the requirements of the 
building code under which the building or structu re or 
the affected portions thereof was built, or as previously 
approved by the building official, shall be considered in 
compliance with the provisions of this code, unless the 
building or structure or the affected portions thereof is 
undergoing a substan tial structural alteration as described 
in Section 604.7.1. New structural members added as 
part of the alteration or repairs shall comply with the 
VCC. Alterations of existing buildings in flood hazard 
areas shall comply with Section 601.3.  
601.2 Levels o f alterations. Alterations to any building or 
structure shall be classified as the following:  
601.2.1 Level 1. Level 1 alterations include the removal 
and replacement or the covering of existing materials, 
elements, equipment, or fixtures using new materi als, 
elements, equipment, or fixtures that serve the same 
purpose. Level 1 alterations shall comply with the 
applicable provisions Section 602.  
601.2.2 Level 2. Level 2 alterations include the addition or 
elimination of any door or window, the reconfigurat ion or 
extension of any system, or the installation of any 
additional equipment and shall apply where the work area 
is less than 50% of the building area. Level 2 alterations 
shall comply with the applicable provisions Sections 602 
and 603.  
601.2.3 Level 3 . Level 3 alterations apply where the work 
area exceeds 50% of the building area. Level 3 alterations 
shall comply with the applicable provisions of Sections 
602, 603 and 604.  
601.2.3.1 Special provisions. A building separated 
horizontally in compliance wi th VCC Section 510.2 shall 
be considered as separate and distinct buildings for the purpose of determining building area used for application 
of Section 601.2.3.  
601.3 Flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas, alterations 
that constitute substantial impro vement shall require that 
the building comply with Section 1612 of the VCC or 
Section R322 of the International Residential Code, as 
applicable.  
601.4 Energy conservation. Level 1, 2, and 3 alterations to 
existing buildings or structures are permitted with out 
requiring the entire building or structure to comply with 
the energy requirements of the International Energy 
Conservation Code or International Residential Code. The 
alterations shall conform to the energy requirements of the 
International Energy Cons ervation Code or International 
Residential Code as they relate to new construction only.  
Exception: Except for window and door openings, like 
materials, assemblies or thicknesses shall be permitted for 
alterations involving the exterior building thermal 
envelope, provided no hazard to life, health or property is 
created. Hazardous materials shall not be used where the 
code for new construction would not permit their use in 
buildings of similar occupancy, purpose and location.  
601.5 Accessibility. Accessibility shall be provided in 
accordance with applicable provisions of Section 404.  
B. Change Section 602 to Level 1 Alterations.  
C. Change Sections 602.1 through 602.3, including 
subsections, of the IEBC to read:  
602.1 Scope. Level 1 alterations as d escribed in Section 
601.2.1 shall comply with the requirements of this section. 
Level 1 alterations to historic buildings shall comply with 
this chapter, except as modified in Chapter 9.  
602.2 Conformance. Alterations shall be done in a manner 
that maintai ns the following:  
1. Level of fire protection that is existing.  
2. Level of protection that is existing for the means of 
egress.  
602.3 Building elements and materials. Building elements 
and materials shall comply with the applicable provisions 
of Sections  302 and 602.3.1 through 602.3.5.  
602.3.1 Interior finishes. All newly installed interior wall 
and ceiling finishes shall comply with Chapter 8 of the 
VCC.  
602.3.2 Interior floor finish. New interior floor finish, 
including new carpeting used as an interi or floor finish 
material, shall comply with Section 804 of the VCC.  
602.3.3 Interior trim. All newly installed interior trim 
materials shall comply with Section 806 of the VCC.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1908  602.3.4 Materials and methods. All new work shall comply 
with the materials an d methods requirements in the VCC, 
International Energy Conservation Code, International 
Mechanical Code, and International Plumbing Code, as 
applicable, that specify material standards, detail of 
installation and connection, joints, penetrations, and 
continuity of any element, component, or system in the 
building.  
602.3.5 International Fuel Gas Code. The following 
sections of the International Fuel Gas Code shall constitute 
the fuel gas materials and methods requirements for Level 
1 alterations.  
1. All of  Chapter 3, entitled "General Regulations," 
except Sections 303.7 and 306.  
2. All of Chapter 4, entitled "Gas Piping Installations," 
except Sections 401.8 and 402.3.2.1. Sections 401.8 and 
402.3 shall apply when the work being performed 
increases the load  on the system such that the existing 
pipe does not meet the size required by code. Existing 
systems that are modified shall not require resizing as 
long as the load on the system is not increased and the 
system length is not increased even if the altered system 
does not meet code minimums.  
3. All of Chapter 5, entitled "Chimneys and Vents."  
4. All of Chapter 6, entitled "Specific Appliances."  
D. Change Section 603 to Level 2 Alterations.  
E. Change Sections 603.1 through 603.10, including 
subsections, of the IEBC to read:  
603.1 Scope. Level 2 alterations as described in Section 
601.2.2 shall comply with the requirements of this section.  
Exception: Buildings in which the alteration is exclusively 
the result of compliance with the accessibility requirements  
of Section 404.3 shall be permitted to comply with Section 
602. 
603.2 Level 1 alteration compliance. In addition to the 
requirements of this section, all work shall comply with the 
applicable requirements of Section 602.  
603.3 Compliance. All new construc tion elements, 
components, systems, and spaces shall comply with the 
requirements of the VCC.  
Exceptions:  
1. Windows may be added without requiring compliance 
with the light and ventilation requirements of the VCC.  
2. Newly installed electrical equipmen t shall comply with 
the requirements of Section 603.8.  
3. The length of dead -end corridors in newly constructed 
spaces shall only be required to comply with the 
provisions of Section 603.6.5.  4. The minimum ceiling height of the newly created 
habitable a nd occupiable spaces and corridors shall be 7 
feet (2134 mm).  
603.4 Building elements and materials. The requirements 
of Section 603.4 are limited to work areas in which Level 2 
alterations are being performed and shall apply beyond the 
work area where specified.  
603.4.1 Vertical openings. Existing vertical openings shall 
comply with the provisions of Sections 603.4.1.1, 
603.4.1.2, and 603.4.1.3.  
603.4.1.1 Existing vertical openings. Existing interior 
vertical openings connecting two or more floors shall  be 
enclosed with approved assemblies having a fire -resistance 
rating of not less than one hour with approved opening 
protectives.  
Exceptions:  
1. Where vertical opening enclosure is not required by 
the VCC or the International Fire Code.  
2. Interior vertical openings other than stairways may be 
blocked at the floor and ceiling of the work area by 
installation of not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of solid 
wood or equivalent construction.  
3. The enclosure shall not be required where:  
3.1. Con necting the main floor and mezzanines; or  
3.2. All of the following conditions are met:  
3.2.1. The communicating area has a low hazard 
occupancy or has a moderate hazard occupancy that is 
protected throughout by an automatic sprinkler system.  
3.2.2. The  lowest or next to the lowest level is a street 
floor.  
3.2.3. The entire area is open and unobstructed in a 
manner such that it may be assumed that a fire in any part 
of the interconnected spaces will be readily obvious to all 
of the occupants.  
3.2.4. Ex it capacity is sufficient to provide egress 
simultaneously for all occupants of all levels by 
considering all areas to be a single floor area for the 
determination of required exit capacity.  
3.2.5. Each floor level, considered separately, has at least 
one half of its individual required exit capacity provided 
by exits leading directly out of that level without having 
to traverse another communicating floor level or be 
exposed to the smoke or fire spreading from another 
communicating floor level.  
4. In Gro up A occupancies, a minimum 30 -minute 
enclosure shall be provided to protect all vertical 
openings not exceeding three stories.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1909 5. In Group B occupancies, a minimum 30 -minute 
enclosure shall be provided to protect all vertical 
openings not exceeding three  stories. This enclosure, or 
the enclosure specified in Section 603.4.1.1, shall not be 
required in the following locations:  
5.1. Buildings not exceeding 3,000 square feet (279 m2) 
per floor.  
5.2. Buildings protected throughout by an approved 
automatic f ire sprinkler system.  
6. In Group E occupancies, the enclosure shall not be 
required for vertical openings not exceeding three stories 
when the building is protected throughout by an 
approved automatic fire sprinkler system.  
7. In Group F occupancies, th e enclosure shall not be 
required in the following locations:  
7.1. Vertical openings not exceeding three stories.  
7.2. Special purpose occupancies where necessary for 
manufacturing operations and direct access is provided to 
at least one protected stairw ay.  
7.3. Buildings protected throughout by an approved 
automatic sprinkler system.  
8. In Group H occupancies, the enclosure shall not be 
required for vertical openings not exceeding three stories 
where necessary for manufacturing operations and every 
floor level has direct access to at least two remote 
enclosed stairways or other approved exits.  
9. In Group M occupancies, a minimum 30 -minute 
enclosure shall be provided to protect all vertical 
openings not exceeding three stories. This enclosure, or 
the e nclosure specified in Section 603.4.1.1, shall not be 
required in the following locations:  
9.1. Openings connecting only two floor levels.  
9.2. Occupancies protected throughout by an approved 
automatic sprinkler system.  
10. In Group R -1 occupancies, the  enclosure shall not be 
required for vertical openings not exceeding three stories 
in the following locations:  
10.1. Buildings protected throughout by an approved 
automatic sprinkler system.  
10.2. Buildings with less than 25 dwelling units or 
sleeping units where every sleeping room above the 
second floor is provided with direct access to a fire 
escape or other approved second exit by means of an 
approved exterior door or window having a sill height of 
not greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) and where:  
10.2.1. Any exit access corridor exceeding 8 feet (2438 
mm) in length that serves two means of egress, one of 
which is an unprotected vertical opening, shall have at least one of the means of egres s separated from the 
vertical opening by a one -hour fire barrier; and  
10.2.2. The building is protected throughout by an 
automatic fire alarm system, installed and supervised in 
accordance with the VCC.  
11. In Group R -2 occupancies, a minimum 30 -minute 
enclosure shall be provided to protect all vertical 
openings not exceeding three stories. This enclosure, or 
the enclosure specified in Section 603.4.1.1, shall not be 
required in the following locations:  
11.1. Vertical openings not exceeding two stories w ith 
not more than four dwelling units per floor.  
11.2. Buildings protected throughout by an approved 
automatic sprinkler system.  
11.3. Buildings with not more than four dwelling units 
per floor where every sleeping room above the second 
floor is provided  with direct access to a fire escape or 
other approved second exit by means of an approved 
exterior door or window having a sill height of not 
greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) and the building is 
protected throughout by an automatic fire alarm system 
compl ying with Section 603.5.4.  
12. One -family and two -family dwellings.  
13. Group S occupancies where connecting not more 
than two floor levels or where connecting not more than 
three floor levels and the structure is equipped 
throughout with an approved aut omatic sprinkler system.  
14. Group S occupancies where vertical opening 
protection is not required for open parking garages and 
ramps.  
603.4.1.2 Supplemental shaft and floor opening enclosure 
requirements. Where the work area on any floor exceeds 
50% of t hat floor area, the enclosure requirements of 
Section 603.4.1 shall apply to vertical openings other than 
stairways throughout the floor.  
Exception: Vertical openings located in tenant spaces that 
are entirely outside the work area.  
603.4.1.3 Supplemental  stairway enclosure requirements. 
Where the work area on any floor exceeds 50% of that 
floor area, stairways that are part of the means of egress 
serving the work area shall, at a minimum, be enclosed 
with smoke -tight construction on the highest work area 
floor and all floors below.  
Exception: Where stairway enclosure is not required by the 
VCC or the International Fire Code.  
603.4.2 Smoke compartments. In Group I -2 occupancies 
where the work area is on a story used for sleeping rooms 
for more than 30 pati ents, the story shall be divided into 
not less than two compartments by smoke barrier walls in Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1910  accordance with Section 407.5 of the VCC as required for 
new construction.  
603.4.3 Interior finish. The interior finish of walls and 
ceilings in exits and corrid ors in any work area shall 
comply with the requirements of the VCC.  
Exception: Existing interior finish materials that do not 
comply with the interior finish requirements of the VCC 
shall be permitted to be treated with an approved fire -
retardant coating in accordance with the manufacturer’s 
instructions to achieve the required rating.  
603.4.3.1 Supplemental interior finish requirements. 
Where the work area on any floor exceeds 50% of the floor 
area, Section 603.4.3 shall also apply to the interior finish 
in exits and corridors serving the work area throughout the 
floor.  
Exception: Interior finish within tenant spaces that are 
entirely outside the work area.  
603.4.4 Guards. The requirements of Sections 603.4.4.1 
and 603.4.4.2 shall apply in all work areas.   
603.4.4.1 Minimum requirement. Every portion of a floor, 
such as a balcony or a loading dock, that is more than 30 
inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below and is not 
provided with guards, or those in which the existing guards 
are judged to be in d anger of collapsing, shall be provided 
with guards.  
603.4.4.2 Design. Where there are no guards or where 
existing guards must be replaced, the guards shall be 
designed and installed in accordance with the VCC.  
603.4.5 Fire -resistance ratings. Where approved by the 
code official, buildings where an automatic sprinkler 
system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 
903.3.1.2 of the VCC has been added, and the building is 
now sprinklered throughout, the required fire -resistance 
ratings of buil ding elements and materials shall be 
permitted to meet the requirements of the current building 
code.  
603.5 Fire protection. The requirements of Section 603.5 
shall be limited to work areas in which Level 2 alterations 
are being performed, and where specif ied they shall apply 
throughout the floor on which the work areas are located or 
otherwise beyond the work area.  
603.5.1 Corridor ratings. Where an approved automatic 
sprinkler system is installed throughout the story, the 
required fire -resistance rating f or any corridor located on 
the story shall be permitted to be reduced in accordance 
with the VCC. In order to be considered for a corridor 
rating reduction, such system shall provide coverage for 
the stairway landings serving the floor and the intermediate  
landings immediately below.  603.5.2 Automatic sprinkler system. Automatic sprinkler 
systems shall be provided in accordance with the 
requirements of Sections 603.5.2.1 through 603.5.2.5. 
Installation requirements shall be in accordance with the 
VCC.  
603.5 .2.1 High -rise buildings. In high -rise buildings, work 
areas that have exits or corridors shared by more than one 
tenant or that have exits or corridors serving an occupant 
load greater than 30 shall be provided with automatic 
sprinkler protection in the e ntire work area where the work 
area is located on a floor that has a sufficient sprinkler 
water supply system from an existing standpipe or a 
sprinkler riser serving that floor.  
603.5.2.1.1 Supplemental automatic sprinkler system 
requirements. Where the work area on any floor exceeds 
50% of that floor area, Section 603.5.2.1 shall apply to the 
entire floor on which the work area is located.  
Exception: Occupied tenant spaces that are entirely outside 
the work area.  
603.5.2.2 Groups A, B, E, F -1, H, I, M, R -1, R-2, R-4, S-1 
and S -2. In buildings with occupancies in Groups A, B, E, 
F-1, H, I, M, R -1, R-2, R-4, S-1 and S -2, work areas that 
have exits or corridors shared by more than one tenant or 
that have exits or corridors serving an occupant load 
greater th an 30 shall be provided with automatic sprinkler 
protection where all of the following conditions occur:  
1. The work area is required to be provided with 
automatic sprinkler protection in accordance with the 
VCC as applicable to new construction; and  
2. The work area exceeds 50% of the floor area.  
Exception: If the building does not have sufficient 
municipal water supply for design of a fire sprinkler 
system available to the floor without installation of a new 
fire pump, work areas shall be protected by an automatic 
smoke detection system throughout all occupiable spaces 
other than sleeping units or individual dwelling units that 
activates the occupant notification system in accordance 
with Sections 907.4, 907.5 and 907.6 of the VCC.  
603.5.2.2.1 Mixed use s. In work areas containing mixed 
uses, one or more of which requires automatic sprinkler 
protection in accordance with Section 603.5.2.2, such 
protection shall not be required throughout the work area 
provided that the uses requiring such protection are 
separated from those not requiring protection by fire -
resistance -rated construction having a minimum two -hour 
rating for Group H and a minimum one -hour rating for all 
other occupancy groups.  
603.5.2.3 Windowless stories. Work located in a 
windowless story, as determined in accordance with the 
VCC, shall be sprinklered where the work area is required 
to be sprinklered under the provisions of the VCC for Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1911 newly constructed buildings and the building has a 
sufficient municipal water supply without installation o f a 
new fire pump.  
603.5.2.4 Other required automatic sprinkler systems. In 
buildings and areas listed in Table 903.2.11.6 of the VCC, 
work areas that have exits or corridors shared by more than 
one tenant or that have exits or corridors serving an 
occupa nt load greater than 30 shall be provided with an 
automatic sprinkler system under the following conditions:  
1. The work area is required to be provided with an 
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with the VCC 
applicable to new construction; and  
2. The building has sufficient municipal water supply for 
design of an automatic sprinkler system available to the 
floor without installation of a new fire pump.  
603.5.2.5 Supervision. Fire sprinkler systems required by 
this section shall be supervised by one  of the following 
methods:  
1. Approved central station system in accordance with 
NFPA 72;  
2. Approved proprietary system in accordance with 
NFPA 72;  
3. Approved remote station system of the jurisdiction in 
accordance with NFPA 72; or  
4. When approved b y the code official, approved local 
alarm service that will cause the sounding of an alarm in 
accordance with NFPA 72.  
Exception: Supervision is not required for the following:  
1. Underground gate valve with roadway boxes.  
2. Halogenated extinguishing sy stems.  
3. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems.  
4. Dry -chemical and wet -chemical extinguishing 
systems.  
5. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance 
with NFPA 13R where a common supply main is used to 
supply both domestic and automatic sprinkl er systems 
and a separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler 
system is not provided.  
603.5.3 Standpipes. Where the work area includes exits or 
corridors shared by more than one tenant and is located 
more than 50 feet (15,240 mm) above or below the l owest 
level of fire department access, a standpipe system shall be 
provided. Standpipes shall have an approved fire 
department connection with hose connections at each floor 
level above or below the lowest level of fire department 
access. Standpipe systems  shall be installed in accordance 
with the VCC.  Exceptions:  
1. No pump shall be required provided that the 
standpipes are capable of accepting delivery by fire 
department apparatus of a minimum of 250 gallons per 
minute (gpm) at 65 pounds per square inch (psi) (946 
L/m at 448KPa) to the topmost floor in buildings 
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system 
or a minimum of 500 gpm at 65 psi (1892 L/m at 
448KPa) to the topmost floor in all other buildings. 
Where the standpipe terminates below the topmost floor, 
the standpipe shall be designed to meet (gpm/psi) 
(L/m/KPa) requirements of this exception for possible 
future extension of the standpipe.  
2. The interconnection of multiple standpipe risers shall 
not be required.  
603.5.4 Fire alarm and det ection. An approved fire alarm 
system shall be installed in accordance with Sections 
603.5.4.1 through 603.5.4.3. Where automatic sprinkler 
protection is provided in accordance with Section 603.5.2 
and is connected to the building fire alarm system, 
automa tic heat detection shall not be required.  
An approved automatic fire detection system shall be 
installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and 
NFPA 72. Devices, combinations of devices, appliances, 
and equipment shall be approved. The automat ic fire 
detectors shall be smoke detectors, except that an approved 
alternative type of detector shall be installed in spaces such 
as boiler rooms, where products of combustion are present 
during normal operation in sufficient quantity to actuate a 
smoke d etector.  
603.5.4.1 Fire alarm requirements. A fire alarm system 
shall be installed in accordance with Sections 603.5.4.1.1 
through 603.5.4.1.7 and Sections 1103.7 and 1103.8 of the 
IFC. Existing alarm -notification appliances shall be 
automatically activated through out the building. Where the 
building is not equipped with a fire alarm system, alarm -
notification appliances within the work area shall be 
provided and automatically activated.  
Exceptions:  
1. Occupancies with an existing, previously approved fire 
alarm s ystem.  
2. Where selective notification is permitted, alarm -
notification appliances shall be automatically activated in 
the areas selected.  
603.5.4.1.1 Group E. Work areas classified as Group E 
occupancies.  
603.5.4.1.2 Group I -1. Work areas classified as G roup I -1 
residential care/assisted living facilities.  
603.5.4.1.3 Group I -2. Throughout occupancies classified 
as Group I -2 occupancies.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1912  603.5.4.1.4 Group I -3. Work areas classified as Group I -3 
occupancies.  
603.5.4.1.5 Group R -1. Occupancies classified as  Group R -
1 occupancies.  
603.5.4.1.6 Group R -2. Work areas classified as Group R -2 
apartment buildings.  
603.5.4.1.7 Group R -4. Work areas classified as Group R -4 
residential care/assisted living facilities.  
603.5.4.2 Supplemental fire alarm system requireme nts. 
Where the work area on any floor exceeds 50% of that 
floor area, Section 603.5.4.1 shall apply throughout the 
floor.  
Exception: Alarm initiating and notification appliances 
shall not be required to be installed in tenant spaces outside 
of the work ar ea. 
603.5.4.3 Smoke alarms. Individual sleeping units and 
individual dwelling units in any work area in Group R and 
I-1 occupancies shall be provided with smoke alarms in 
accordance with the International Fire Code.  
Exception: Interconnection of smoke ala rms outside of the 
work area shall not be required.  
603.6 Means of egress. The means of egress shall comply 
with the requirements of Section 603.6.  
Exceptions:  
1. Where the work area and the means of egress serving 
it complies with NFPA 101.  
2. Means of  egress conforming to the requirements of the 
building code under which the building was constructed 
shall be considered compliant means of egress.  
603.6.1 General. The requirements of this section shall be 
limited to work areas that include exits or corri dors shared 
by more than one tenant within the work area in which 
Level 2 alterations are being performed, and where 
specified they shall apply throughout the floor on which 
the work areas are located or otherwise beyond the work 
area.  
603.6.2 Number of ex its. The number of exits shall be in 
accordance with Sections 603.6.2.1 through 603.6.2.3.  
603.6.2.1 Minimum number. Every story utilized for 
human occupancy on which there is a work area that 
includes exits or corridors shared by more than one tenant 
within the work area shall be provided with the minimum 
number of exits based on the occupancy and the occupant 
load in accordance with the VCC. In addition, the exits 
shall comply with Sections 603.6.2.1.1 and 303.  
603.6.2.1.1 Single -exit buildings. Only one  exit is required 
from buildings and spaces of the following occupancies:  1. In Groups A, B, E, F, M, U, and S occupancies, a 
single exit is permitted in the story at the level of exit 
discharge when the occupant load of the story does not 
exceed 50 and t he exit access travel distance does not 
exceed 75 feet (22,860 mm).  
2. Groups B, F -2, and S -2 occupancies not more than two 
stories in height that are not greater than 3,500 square 
feet per floor (326 m2), when the exit access travel 
distance does not exc eed 75 feet (22,860 mm). The 
minimum fire -resistance rating of the exit enclosure and 
of the opening protection shall be one hour.  
3. Open parking structures where vehicles are 
mechanically parked.  
4. In Group R -4 occupancies, the maximum occupant 
load e xcluding staff is 16.  
5. Groups R -1 and R -2 not more than two stories in 
height, when there are not more than four dwelling units 
per floor and the exit access travel distance does not 
exceed 50 feet (15,240 mm). The minimum fire -
resistance rating of the e xit enclosure and of the opening 
protection shall be one hour.  
6. In multilevel dwelling units in buildings of occupancy 
Group R -1 or R -2, an exit shall not be required from 
every level of the dwelling unit provided that one of the 
following conditions is met:  
6.1. The travel distance within the dwelling unit does no t 
exceed 75 feet (22,860 mm); or  
6.2. The building is not more than three stories in height 
and all third floor space is part of one or more dwelling 
units located in part on the second floor; and no habitable 
room within any such dwelling unit shall have  a travel 
distance that exceeds 50 feet (15,240 mm) from the 
outside of the habitable room entrance door to the inside 
of the entrance door to the dwelling unit.  
7. In Groups R -2, H -4, H -5 and I occupancies and in 
rooming houses and child care centers, a single exit is 
permitted in a one -story building with a maximum 
occupant load of 10 and the exit access travel distance 
does not exceed 75 feet (22,860 mm). In dwelling units 
within Group R -2 buildings, an occupant load of 12 shall 
be permitted and, in add ition, staff of such family day 
homes shall not be counted for the purposes of 
establishing occupant loads.  
8. In buildings of Group R -2 occupancy that are equipped 
throughout with an automatic fire sprinkler system, a 
single exit shall be permitted from a basement or story 
below grade if every dwelling unit on that floor is 
equipped with an approved window providing a clear 
opening of at least 5 square feet (0.47 m2) in area, a 
minimum net clear opening of 24 inches (610 mm) in 
height and 20 inches (508 m m) in width, and a sill height Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1913 of not more than 44 inches (1118 mm) above the finished 
floor.  
9. In buildings of Group R -2 occupancy of any height 
with not more than four dwelling units per floor; with a 
smoke -proof enclosure or outside stairway as an exi t; and 
with such exit located within 20 feet (6096 mm) of travel 
to the entrance doors to all dwelling units served thereby.  
10. In buildings of Group R -3 occupancy equipped 
throughout with an automatic fire sprinkler system, only 
one exit shall be requir ed from basements or stories 
below grade.  
603.6.2.2 Mezzanines. Mezzanines in the work area and 
with an occupant load of more than 50 or in which the 
common path of egress travel distance to an exit or exit 
access doorway exceeds 75 feet (22,860 mm) shall have 
access to at least two independent means of egress.  
Exception: Two independent means of egress are not 
required where the travel distance to an exit does not 
exceed 100 feet (30,480 mm) and the building is protected 
throughout with an automatic sprin kler system.  
603.6.3 Egress doorways. Egress doorways in any work 
area shall comply with Sections 603.6.3.1 through 
603.6.3.5.  
603.6.3.1 Two egress doorways required. Work areas shall 
be provided with two egress doorways in accordance with 
the requirements  of Sections 603.6.3.1.1 and 603.6.3.1.2.  
603.6.3.1.1 Occupant load and travel distance. In any work 
area, all rooms and spaces having an occupant load greater 
than 50 or in which the common path of egress travel 
distance to an exit or exit access doorway  exceeds 75 feet 
(22,860 mm) shall have a minimum of two egress 
doorways.  
Exceptions:  
1. Storage rooms having a maximum occupant load of 
10.  
2. Where the work area is served by a single exit in 
accordance with Section 603.6.2.1.1.  
603.6.3.1.2 Group I -2. In buildings of Group I -2 
occupancy, any patient sleeping room or suite of patient 
rooms greater than 1,000 square feet (93 m2) within the 
work area shall have a minimum of two egress doorways.  
603.6.3.2 Door swing. In the work area and in the egress 
path from any work area to the exit discharge, all egress 
doors serving an occupant load greater than 50 shall swing 
in the direction of exit travel.  
603.6.3.2.1 Supplemental requirements for door swing. 
Where the work area exceeds 50% of the floor area, door 
swing shall comply with Section 603.6.3.2 throughout the 
floor.  Exception: Means of egress within or serving only a tenant 
space that is entirely outside the work area.  
603.6.3.3 Door closing. In any work area, all doors 
opening onto an exit passageway at  grade or an exit 
stairway shall be self -closing or automatic -closing by listed 
closing devices.  
Exceptions:   
1. Where exit enclosure is not required by the VCC.  
2. Means of egress within or serving only a tenant space 
that is entirely outside the work a rea. 
603.6.3.3.1 Supplemental requirements for door closing. 
Where the work area exceeds 50% of the floor area, doors 
shall comply with Section 603.6.3.3 throughout the exit 
stairway from the work area to, and including, the level of 
exit discharge.  
603.6. 3.4 Panic hardware. In any work area, and in the 
egress path from any work area to the exit discharge, in 
buildings of Group A assembly occupancies with an 
occupant load greater than 100, all required exit doors 
equipped with latching devices shall be equi pped with 
approved panic hardware.  
603.6.3.4.1 Supplemental requirements for panic hardware. 
Where the work area exceeds 50% of the floor area, panic 
hardware shall comply with Section 603.6.3.4 throughout 
the floor.  
Exception: Means of egress within a te nant space that is 
entirely outside the work area.  
603.6.3.5 Emergency power source in Group I -3. Power 
operated sliding doors or power operated locks for 
swinging doors shall be operable by a manual release 
mechanism at the door. Emergency power shall be 
provided for the doors and locks in accordance with 
Section 2702 of the VCC.  
Exceptions:  
1. Emergency power is not required in facilities with 10 
or fewer locks complying with the exception to Section 
408.4.1 of the VCC.  
2. Emergency power is not required where remote 
mechanical operating releases are provided.  
603.6.4 Openings in corridor walls. Openings in corridor 
walls in any work area shall comply with Sections 
603.6.4.1 through 603.6.4.4.  
Exception: Openings in corridors where such corridors  are 
not required to be rated in accordance with the VCC.  
603.6.4.1 Corridor doors. Corridor doors in the work area 
shall not be constructed of hollow core wood and shall not 
contain louvers. All dwelling unit or sleeping unit corridor 
doors in work areas in buildings of Groups R -1, R-2, and  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1914  I-1 shall be at least 1 -3/8-inch (35 mm) solid core wood or 
approved equivalent and shall not have any glass panels, 
other than approved wired glass or other approved glazing 
material in metal frames. All dwelling unit  or sleeping unit 
corridor doors in work areas in buildings of Groups R -1, 
R-2, and I -1 shall be equipped with approved door closers. 
All replacement doors shall be 1 -3/4-inch (44 mm) solid 
bonded wood core or approved equivalent, unless the 
existing frame  will accommodate only a 1 -3/8-inch (35 
mm) door.  
Exceptions:  
1. Corridor doors within a dwelling unit or sleeping unit.  
2. Existing doors meeting the requirements of Guidelines 
on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies 
(VEBC Resource A) for a  rating of 15 minutes or more 
shall be accepted as meeting the provisions of this 
requirement.  
3. Existing doors in buildings protected throughout with 
an approved automatic sprinkler system shall be required 
only to resist smoke, be reasonably tight fitt ing, and shall 
not contain louvers.  
4. In group homes with a maximum of 15 occupants and 
that are protected with an approved automatic detection 
system, closing devices may be omitted.  
5. Door assemblies having a fire protection rating of at 
least 20 min utes. 
603.6.4.2 Transoms. In all buildings of Group I -1, I-2, R-1 
and R -2 occupancies, all transoms in corridor walls in 
work areas shall be either glazed with 1/4 -inch (6.4 mm) 
wired glass set in metal frames or other glazing assemblies 
having a fire prot ection rating as required for the door and 
permanently secured in the closed position or sealed with 
materials consistent with the corridor construction.  
603.6.4.3 Other corridor openings. In any work area, 
unless otherwise protected or fire -resistant rate d in 
accordance with Section 716 of the VCC, any other sash, 
grille, or opening in a corridor and any window in a 
corridor not opening to the outside air shall be sealed with 
materials consistent with the corridor construction.  
603.6.4.3.1 Supplemental req uirements for other corridor 
opening. Where the work area exceeds 50% of the floor 
area, Section 603.6.4.3 shall be applicable to all corridor 
windows, grills, sashes, and other openings on the floor.  
Exception: Means of egress within or serving only a te nant 
space that is entirely outside the work area.  
603.6.4.4 Supplemental requirements for corridor 
openings. Where the work area on any floor exceeds 50% 
of the floor area, the requirements of Sections 603.6.4.1 
through 603.6.4.3 shall apply throughout th e floor.  603.6.5 Dead -end corridors. Dead -end corridors in any 
work area shall not exceed 35 feet (10 670 mm).  
Exceptions:  
1. Where dead -end corridors of greater length are 
permitted by the VCC.  
2. In other than Group A and H occupancies, the 
maximum le ngth of an existing dead -end corridor shall 
be 50 feet (15,240 mm) in buildings equipped throughout 
with an automatic fire alarm system installed in 
accordance with the VCC.  
3. In other than Group A and H occupancies, the 
maximum length of an existing dea d-end corridor shall 
be 70 feet (21,356 mm) in buildings equipped throughout 
with an automatic sprinkler system installed in 
accordance with the VCC.  
4. In other than Group A and H occupancies, the 
maximum length of an existing, newly constructed, or 
extended dead -end corridor shall not exceed 50 feet 
(15,240 mm) on floors equipped with an automatic 
sprinkler system installed in accordance with the VCC.  
603.6.6 Means -of-egress lighting. Means -of-egress lighting 
shall be in accordance with this section, as applicable.  
603.6.6.1 Artificial lighting required. Means of egress in 
all work areas shall be provided with artificial lighting in 
accordance with the requirements of the VCC.  
603.6.6.2 Supplemental requirements for means -of-egress 
lighting. Where the wo rk area on any floor exceeds 50% of 
that floor area, means of egress throughout the floor shall 
comply with Section 603.6.6.1.  
Exception: Means of egress within or serving only a tenant 
space that is entirely outside the work area.  
603.6.7 Exit signs. Exi t signs shall be in accordance with 
this section, as applicable.  
603.6.7.1 Work areas. Means of egress in all work areas 
shall be provided with exit signs in accordance with the 
requirements of the VCC.  
603.6.7.2 Supplemental requirements for exit signs. Where 
the work area on any floor exceeds 50% of that floor area, 
means of egress throughout the floor shall comply with 
Section 603.6.7.1.  
Exception: Means of egress within a tenant space that is 
entirel y outside the work area.  
603.6.8 Handrails. The requirements of Sections 603.6.8.1 
and 603.6.8.2 shall apply to handrails from the work area 
floor to, and including, the level of exit discharge.  
603.6.8.1 Minimum requirement. Every required exit 
stairway that is part of the means of egress for any work 
area and that has three or more risers and is not provided Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1915 with at least one handrail, or in which the existing 
handrails are judged to be in danger of collapsing, shall be 
provided with handrails for the fu ll length of the stairway 
on at least one side. All exit stairways with a required 
egress width of more than 66 inches (1676 mm) shall have 
handrails on both sides.  
603.6.8.2 Design. Handrails required in accordance with 
Section 603.6.8.1 shall be designe d and installed in 
accordance with the provisions of the VCC.  
603.6.9 Guards. The requirements of Sections 603.6.9.1 
and 603.6.9.2 shall apply to guards from the work area 
floor to, and including, the level of exit discharge but shall 
be confined to the eg ress path of any work area.  
603.6.9.1 Minimum requirement. Every open portion of a 
stairway, landing, or balcony that is more than 30 inches 
(762 mm) above the floor or grade below and is not 
provided with guards, or those portions in which existing 
guard s are judged to be in danger of collapsing, shall be 
provided with guards.  
603.6.9.2 Design. Guards required in accordance with 
Section 603.6.9.1 shall be designed and installed in 
accordance with the VCC.  
603.7 Structural. Structural elements and systems  within 
buildings undergoing Level 2 alterations shall comply with 
Sections 603.7.1 through 603.7.5.  
603.7.1 New structural elements. New structural elements 
in alterations, including connections and anchorage, shall 
comply with the VCC.  
603.7.2 Minimum design loads. The minimum design 
loads on existing elements of a structure that do not 
support additional loads as a result of an alteration shall be 
the loads applicable at the time the building was 
constructed.  
603.7.3 Existing structural elements carryi ng gravity loads. 
Any existing gravity load -carrying structural element for 
which an alteration causes an increase in design gravity 
load of more than 5% shall be strengthened, supplemented, 
replaced or otherwise altered as needed to carry the 
increased gr avity load required by the VCC for new 
structures. Any existing gravity load -carrying structural 
element whose gravity load -carrying capacity is decreased 
as part of the alteration shall be shown to have the capacity 
to resist the applicable design gravity  loads required by the 
VCC for new structures.  
Exception: Buildings of Group R occupancy with not more 
than five dwelling or sleeping units used solely for 
residential purposes where the existing building and its 
alteration comply with the conventional lig ht-frame 
construction methods of the VCC or the provisions of the 
International Residential Code.  603.7.3.1 Design live load. Where the alteration does not 
result in increased design live load, existing gravity load -
carrying structural elements shall be pe rmitted to be 
evaluated and designed for live loads approved prior to the 
alteration. If the approved live load is less than that 
required by Section 1607 of the VCC, the area designed for 
the nonconforming live load shall be posted with placards 
of approv ed design indicating the approved live load. 
Where the alteration does result in increased design live 
load, the live load required by Section 1607 of the VCC 
shall be used.  
603.7.4 Existing structural elements resisting lateral loads. 
Except as permitted by Section 603.7.5, where the 
alteration increases design lateral loads in accordance with 
Section 1609 or 1613 of the VCC, or where the alteration 
results in a prohibited structural irregularity as defined in 
ASCE 7, or where the alteration decreases the capacity of 
any existing lateral load -carrying structural element, the 
structure of the altered building or structure shall be shown 
to meet the requirements of Sections 1609 and 1613 of the 
VCC. For purposes of this section, compliance with ASCE 
41, using  a Tier 3 procedure and the two -level performance 
objective in Table 305.2.2 for the applicable risk category, 
shall be deemed to meet the requirements of Section 1613 
of the VCC.  
Exception: Any existing lateral load -carrying structural 
element whose deman d-capacity ratio with the alteration 
considered is not more than 10% greater than its demand -
capacity ratio with the alteration ignored shall be permitted 
to remain unaltered. For purposes of calculating demand -
capacity ratios, the demand shall consider ap plicable load 
combinations with design lateral loads or forces in 
accordance with VCC Sections 1609 and 1613. Reduced 
VCC level seismic forces in accordance with Section 
305.2.2 shall be permitted. For purposes of this exception, 
comparisons of demand -capacity ratios and calculation of 
design lateral loads, forces and capacities shall account for 
the cumulative effects of additions and alterations since 
original construction.  
603.7.5 Voluntary lateral force -resisting system alterations. 
Alterations of exist ing structural elements and additions of 
new structural elements that are initiated for the purpose of 
increasing the lateral force -resisting strength or stiffness of 
an existing structure and that are not required by other 
sections of this code shall not be required to be designed 
for forces conforming to the VCC, provided that an 
engineering analysis is submitted to show that:  
1. The capacity of existing structural elements required to 
resist forces is not reduced;  
2. The lateral loading to existing str uctural elements is 
not increased either beyond its capacity or more than 
10%;  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1916  3. New structural elements are detailed and connected to 
the existing structural elements as required by the VCC;  
4. New or relocated nonstructural elements are detailed 
and c onnected to existing or new structural elements as 
required by the VCC; and  
5. Voluntary alterations to lateral force -resisting systems 
conducted in accordance with Appendix A and the 
referenced standards of this code shall be permitted.  
603.7.6 Voluntary seismic improvements. Alterations to 
existing structural elements or additions of new structural 
elements that are not otherwise required by this chapter 
and are initiated for the purpose of improving the 
performance of the seismic force resisting system of an 
existing structure or the performance of seismic bracing or 
anchorage of existing nonstructural elements shall be 
permitted, provided that an engineering analysis is 
submitted demonstrating the following:  
1. The altered structure an d the altered nonstructural 
elements are no less conforming to the provisions of the 
VCC with respect to earthquake design than they were 
prior to the alteration.  
2. New structural elements are detailed as required for 
new construction.  
3. New or relocat ed nonstructural elements are detailed 
and connected to existing or new structural elements as 
required for new construction.  
4. The alterations do not create a structural irregularity as 
defined in ASCE 7 or make an existing structural 
irregularity more severe.  
603.8 Electrical. Electrical elements and systems within 
buildings undergoing Level 2 alterations shall comply with 
Sections 603.8.1 through 603.8.3.  
603.8.1 New installations. All newly installed electrical 
equipment and wiring relating to work done in any work 
area shall comply with all applicable requirements of 
NFPA 70 except as provided for in Section 603.8.3.  
603.8.2 Existing installations. Exist ing wiring in all work 
areas in Groups A -1, A-2, A-5, H, and I occupancies shall 
be upgraded to meet the materials and methods 
requirements of Section 602.3.  
603.8.3 Residential occupancies. In Groups R -2, R-3, R-4 
and R -5 occupancies and buildings regulat ed by the 
International Residential Code, the requirements of 
Sections 603.8.3.1 through 603.8.3.7 shall be applicable 
only to work areas located within a dwelling unit.  
603.8.3.1 Enclosed areas. All enclosed areas, other than 
closets, kitchens, basements , garages, hallways, laundry 
areas, utility areas, storage areas, and bathrooms shall have 
a minimum of two duplex receptacle outlets or one duplex receptacle outlet and one ceiling or wall -type lighting 
outlet.  
603.8.3.2 Kitchens. Kitchen areas shall have  a minimum of 
two duplex receptacle outlets.  
603.8.3.3 Laundry areas. Laundry areas shall have a 
minimum of one duplex receptacle outlet located near the 
laundry equipment and installed on an independent circuit.  
603.8.3.4 Ground fault circuit interruption . Newly installed 
receptacle outlets shall be provided with ground fault 
circuit interruption as required by NFPA 70.  
603.8.3.5 Minimum lighting outlets. At least one lighting 
outlet shall be provided in every bathroom, hallway, 
stairway, attached garage,  and detached garage with 
electric power, and to illuminate outdoor entrances and 
exits.  
603.8.3.6 Utility rooms and basements. At least one 
lighting outlet shall be provided in utility rooms and 
basements where such spaces are used for storage or 
contain  equipment requiring service.  
603.8.3.7 Clearance for equipment. Clearance for electrical 
service equipment shall be provided in accordance with the 
NFPA 70.  
603.9 Mechanical. All work areas intended for occupancy 
and all spaces converted to habitable or occupiable space 
in any work area shall be provided with natural or 
mechanical ventilation in accordance with the International 
Mechanical Code.  
Exception: Existing mechanical ventilation systems shall 
comply with the requirements of Section 603.9.1.  
603.9.1 Altered existing systems. In mechanically 
ventilated spaces, existing mechanical ventilation systems 
that are altered, reconfigured, or extended shall provide not 
less than 5 cubic feet per minute (cfm) (0.0024 m3/s) per 
person of outdoor air and not less than 15 cfm (0.0071 
m3/s) of ventilation air per person; or not less than the 
amount of ventilation air determined by the Indoor Air 
Quality Procedure of ASHRAE 62.  
603.9.2 Local exhaust. All newly introduced devices, 
equipment, or operations that pr oduce airborne particulate 
matter, odors, fumes, vapor, combustion products, gaseous 
contaminants, pathogenic and allergenic organisms, and 
microbial contaminants in such quantities as to affect 
adversely or impair health or cause discomfort to 
occupants s hall be provided with local exhaust.  
603.10 Plumbing. Where the occupant load of the story is 
increased by more than 20%, plumbing fixtures for the 
story shall be provided in quantities specified in the 
International Plumbing Code based on the increased 
occupant load.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1917 F. Change Section 604 to Level 3 Alterations.  
604.1 Scope. Level 3 alterations as described in Section 
601.2.3 shall comply with the requirements of this section.  
Exception: Buildings in which the alteration is exclusively 
the result of comp liance with the accessibility requirements 
of Section 404.3 shall be permitted to comply with Section 
602. 
604.2 Level 1 and Level 2 alterations compliance. In 
addition to the requirements of this section, work shall 
comply with the applicable requirements  of Sections 602 
and 603. The requirements of Sections 603.4, 603.5 and 
603.6 shall apply within all work areas whether or not they 
include exits and corridors shared by more than one tenant 
and regardless of the occupant load.  
Exception: Buildings in whic h the alteration affecting exits 
or shared egress access is exclusively the result of 
compliance with the accessibility requirements of Section 
404.3 shall not be required to comply with this section.  
604.3 Special use and occupancy. The following special 
uses and occupancies shall comply with the requirements 
of Section 603.6 except as specifically required in Sections 
604.3.1 and 604.3.2.  
604.3.1 High -rise buildings. Any building having occupied 
floors more than 75 feet (22,860 mm) above the lowest 
level  of fire department vehicle access shall comply with 
the requirements of Sections 604.3.1.1 and 604.3.1.2.  
604.3.1.1 Recirculating air or exhaust systems. When a 
floor is served by a recirculating air or exhaust system with 
a capacity greater than 15,000 cubic feet per minute (701 
m3/s), that system shall be equipped with approved smoke 
and heat detection devices installed in accordance with the 
International Mechanical Code.  
604.3.1.2 Elevators. Where there are elevators for public 
use, at least one elev ator serving the work area shall 
comply with this section. Existing elevators with a travel 
distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or more above or below the 
main floor or other level of a building and intended to 
serve the needs of emergency personnel for firefigh ting or 
rescue purposes shall be provided with emergency 
operation in accordance with ASME A17.3. New elevators 
shall be provided with Phase I emergency recall operation 
and Phase II emergency in -car operation in accordance 
with ASME A17.1.  
604.3.2 Boiler and furnace equipment rooms. Boiler and 
furnace equipment rooms adjacent to or within Groups I -1, 
I-2, I-4, R-1, R-2, and R -4 occupancies shall be enclosed 
by one -hour-fire-resistance -rated construction.  Exceptions:  
1. Steam boiler equipment operating at pressures of 15 
pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (103.4 KPa) or less 
is not required to be enclosed.  
2. Hot water boilers operating at pressures of 170 psig 
(1171 KPa) or less are not required to be enclosed.  
3. Furnace and boiler equipment with 400,000 British 
thermal units (Btu) (4.22 by 108 J) per hour input rating 
or less is not required to be enclosed.  
4. Furnace rooms protected with an automatic sprinkler 
system are not required to be enclosed.  
604.4 Buildin g elements and materials. Building elements 
and materials shall comply with the requirements of 
Section 603.6 except as specifically required in Sections 
604.4.1 through 604.4.3.  
604.4.1 Existing stairways. Existing stairways that are part 
of the means of  egress shall be enclosed in accordance with 
Section 603.4.1.1, and its exceptions if applicable, from the 
highest work area floor to, and including, the level of exit 
discharge and all floors below.  
604.4.2 Fire separation in Group R -3. Where the work are a 
is in any attached dwelling unit in Group R -3 or any 
multiple single -family dwelling (townhouse), walls 
separating the dwelling units that are not continuous from 
the foundation to the underside of the roof sheathing shall 
be constructed to provide a con tinuous fire separation 
using construction materials consistent with the existing 
wall or complying with the requirements for new 
structures. All work shall be performed on the side of the 
dwelling unit wall that is part of the work area.  
Exception: Where  alterations or repairs do not result in the 
removal of wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, 
walls are not required to be continuous through concealed 
floor spaces.  
604.4.3 Interior finish. Interior finish in exits serving the 
work area shall c omply with Section 603.4.3 between the 
highest floor on which there is a work area to the floor of 
exit discharge.  
604.5 Fire protection. Fire protection shall comply with the 
requirements of Section 603.6 except as specifically 
required in Sections 604.5. 1 and 604.5.2.  
604.5.1 Automatic sprinkler systems. An automatic 
sprinkler system shall be provided in a work area where 
required by Section 603.5.1.1 through 604.5.1.3 or Section 
603.5.2.  
604.5.1.1 High -rise buildings. An automatic sprinkler 
system shal l be provided in work areas where the high -rise 
building has a sufficient municipal water supply for the Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1918  design and installation of an automatic sprinkler system at 
the site.  
604.5.1.2 Rubbish and linen chutes. Rubbish and linen 
chutes located in the work  area shall be provided with 
automatic sprinkler system protection or an approved 
automatic fire extinguishing system where protection of 
the rubbish and linen chute would be required under the 
provisions of the VCC for new construction.  
604.5.1.3 Upholste red furniture or mattresses. Work areas 
shall be provided with an automatic sprinkler system in 
accordance with the VCC where any of the following 
conditions exist:  
1. A Group F -1 occupancy used for the manufacture of 
upholstered furniture or mattresses e xceeds 2,500 square 
feet (232 m2).  
2. A Group S -1 occupancy used for the storage of 
upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 2,500 square 
feet (232 m2). 
604.5.2 Fire alarm and detection systems. Fire alarm and 
detection shall be provided throughout the  work area in 
accordance with Section 907 of the VCC as required for 
new construction.  
604.5.2.1 Manual fire alarm systems. Where required by 
the VCC, a manual fire alarm system shall be provided 
throughout the work area. Alarm notification appliances 
shall be provided on such floors and shall be automatically 
activated as required by the VCC.  
Exceptions:  
1. Alarm -initiating and notification appliances shall not 
be required to be installed in tenant spaces outside of the 
work area.  
2. Visual alarm notific ation appliances are not required, 
except where an existing alarm system is upgraded or 
replaced or where a new fire alarm system is installed.  
604.5.2.2 Automatic fire detection. Where required by the 
VCC for new buildings, automatic fire detection system s 
shall be provided throughout the work area.  
604.6 Means of egress. The means of egress shall comply 
with the requirements of Section 603.6 except as 
specifically required in Sections 604.6.1 and 604.6.2.  
604.6.1 Means -of-egress lighting. Means of egress  from 
the highest work area floor to the floor of exit discharge 
shall be provided with artificial lighting within the exit 
enclosure in accordance with the requirements of the VCC.  
604.6.2 Exit signs. Means of egress from the highest work 
area floor to t he floor of exit discharge shall be provided 
with exit signs in accordance with the requirements of the 
VCC.  604.7 Structural. Structural alterations shall comply with 
the requirements of Section 603.6 except as specifically 
required in Sections 604.7.1 an d 604.7.2.  
604.7.1 Substantial structural alteration. Where more than 
30% of the total floor and roof areas of the building or 
structure have been or are proposed to be involved in 
structural alteration within a five -year period, the 
evaluation and analysi s shall demonstrate that the lateral 
load-resisting system of the altered building or structure 
complies with the International Building Code for wind 
loading and with reduced International Building Code -
level seismic force in accordance with Section 305.2 .2. 
The areas to be counted toward the 30% shall be those 
areas tributary to the vertical load -carrying components, 
such as joists, beams, columns, walls and other structural 
components that have been or will be removed, added or 
altered, as well as areas such as mezzanines, penthouses, 
roof structures and in -filled courts and shafts.  
604.7.2 Limited structural alteration. Where the work does 
not involve a substantial structural alteration and the 
building is not assigned to Seismic Design Category F, the 
existing elements of the lateral load -resisting system shall 
comply with Section 603.7.4.  
G. Delete Sections 605, 606, 607, 608 and 609 of the IEBC 
in their entirety.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-433.5. Chapter 7  [ Alterations -- Level 1  
Change of occupancy  ]. 
A. [ Delete IEBC Section 706 Reroofing in its entirety.  
Change Sections 701.1 through 701.2 of the IEBC to read:  
701.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply 
where a change of occupancy occurs, except as modified 
by Section 906 for historic buildings. Compl iance with the 
current VCC for the change of occupancy shall only be 
required as prescribed in this chapter. Compliance shall be 
only as necessary to meet the specific provisions of the 
applicable International Codes and is not intended to 
require the enti re building be brought into compliance.  
Exception: Compliance with the provisions of Chapter 14 
shall be permitted in lieu of complying with this chapter 
for a change of occupancy.  
701.2 Work undertaken in connection with a change of 
occupancy. Any repair s, alterations, or additions 
undertaken in connection with a change of occupancy shall 
conform to the applicable requirements for the work as 
classified in this code and as modified by this chapter.  ]  
B. Delete  [ Section 701.3 of the  ] IEBC [  Sections 707 .3, 
707.3.1, and 707.3.2  ]. 
[ C. Change Section 702 to Special Use and Occupancy.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1919 D. Change Sections 702.1 and 702.2 of the IEBC to read:  
702.1 Compliance with the building code. Where a 
building undergoes a change of occupancy to one of the 
special use or  occupancy categories described in Chapter 4 
of the VCC, the building shall comply with all of the 
requirements of Chapter 4 of the VCC applicable to the 
special use or occupancy.  
702.2 Incidental uses. Where a portion of a building 
undergoes a change of o ccupancy to one of the incidental 
uses listed in Table 509 of the VCC, the incidental use 
shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 
509 of the VCC.  
E. Delete Sections 702.3 through 702.6 of the IEBC.  
F. Change Section 703 to Building Element s and Materials.  
G. Change Section 703.1 of the IEBC and add Section 
703.2, including subsections, to the IEBC to read:  
703.1 Interior finish. In areas of the building undergoing a 
change of occupancy classification, the interior finish of 
walls and ceilin gs shall comply with the requirements of 
the VCC for the new occupancy classification.  
703.2 Enclosure of vertical openings. When a change of 
occupancy classification is made to a higher hazard 
category as shown in Table 705.2, protection of existing 
vertical openings shall be in accordance with Sections 
703.2.1 through 703.2.3.  
703.2.1 Stairways. Interior stairways shall be protected as 
required by Section 705.1.  
703.2.2 Other vertical openings. Interior vertical openings, 
other than stairways, within th e area of the change of 
occupancy shall be protected as required by the VCC.  
Exceptions:  
1. Existing one -hour interior shaft enclosures shall be 
accepted where a higher rating is required.  
2. Vertical openings, other than stairways, in buildings of 
other than Group I occupancy and connecting less than 
six stories shall not be required to be enclosed are 
permitted if the entire building is provided with an 
approved automatic sprinkler system.  
703.2.3 Shaft openings. All openings into existing vertical 
shaft enclosures shall be protected by fire assemblies 
having a fire protection rating of not less than one hour and 
shall be maintained self -closing or shall be automatic -
closing by actuation of a smoke detector. All other 
openings shall be fire protected  in an approved manner. 
Existing fusible link -type automatic door -closing devices 
shall be permitted in all shafts except stairways if the 
fusible link rating does not exceed 135°F (57°C).  H. Change Section 704 to Fire Protection.  
I. Change Section 704.1 o f the IEBC and add Sections 704.2 
and 704.3 to the IEBC to read:  
704.1 Fire protection systems. Fire protection systems shall 
be provided in accordance with Sections 704.2 and 704.3.  
704.2 Fire sprinkler system. Where a building undergoes a 
change of occup ancy that requires an automatic fire 
sprinkler system to be provided based on the new 
occupancy in accordance with Chapter 9 of the VCC, such 
system shall be provided throughout the area where the 
change of occupancy occurs.  
704.3 Fire alarm and detection system. Where a building 
undergoes a change of occupancy that requires a fire alarm 
and detection system to be provided based on the new 
occupancy in accordance with Chapter 9 of the VCC, such 
system shall be provided throughout the area where the 
change o f occupancy occurs. Existing alarm notification 
appliances shall be automatically activated throughout the 
building. Where the building is not equipped with a fire 
alarm system, alarm notification appliances shall be 
provided throughout the area where the change of 
occupancy occurs in accordance with Section 907 of the 
VCC as required for new construction.  
J. Change Section 705 to Means of Egress.  
K. Change Sections 705.1 through 705.2, deleting 
subsections, and add Sections 705.3 and 705.4 to the IEBC to 
read: 
705.1 General. Means of egress in buildings undergoing a 
change of occupancy shall comply with Sections 705.2 
through 705.4.  
705.2 Means of egress, hazards. Hazard categories in 
regard to life safety and means of egress shall be in 
accordance with Ta ble 705.2.  
TABLE 705.2  
MEANS OF EGRESS HAZARD CATEGORIES  
RELATIVE HAZARD  OCCUPANCY 
CLASSIFICATIONS  
1 (Highest Hazard)  H 
2 I-2, I-3, I-4 
3 A, E, I -1, M, R -1, R-2, R-4 
4 B, F-1, R-3, S-1, R-5 
5 (Lowest Hazard)  F-2, S-2, U 
705.3 Means of egress for change to higher hazard 
category. When a change of occupancy classification is 
made to a higher hazard category (lower number) as shown 
in Table 705.2, the means of egress serving the area of the Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1920  change of occupancy shall comply w ith the requirements 
of Chapter 10 of the VCC.  
Exceptions:  
1. Existing interior stairways are permitted to be enclosed 
in accordance with Section 603.4.1.1 from the highest 
floor where the change of occupancy classification 
occurs to, and including, the level of exit discharge and 
all floors below.  
2. An enclosur e shall not be required for openings 
serving only one adjacent floor and that are not 
connected with corridors or stairways serving other 
floors.  
3. Unenclosed existing stairways need not be enclosed in 
a continuous vertical shaft if each story is separat ed from 
other stories by one -hour-fire-resistance -rated 
construction or approved wired glass set in steel frames 
and all exit corridors are sprinklered. The openings 
between the corridor and the occupant space shall have at 
least one sprinkler head above t he openings on the tenant 
side. The sprinkler system shall be permitted to be 
supplied from the domestic water supply systems, 
provided the system is of adequate pressure, capacity, 
and sizing for the combined domestic and sprinkler 
requirements.  
4. Exist ing corridor walls constructed on both sides of 
wood lath and plaster in good condition or 1/2 -inch-thick 
(12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard shall be permitted. Such 
walls shall either terminate at the underside of a ceiling 
of equivalent construction or extend to  the underside of 
the floor or roof next above.  
5. Existing corridor doorways, transoms, and other 
corridor openings are permitted to comply with the 
requirements in Sections 603.6.4.1, 603.6.4.2, and 
603.6.4.3 regardless of work areas.  
6. Existing dead -end corridors are permitted to comply 
with the requirements in Section 603.6.5 regardless of 
work areas.  
7. An existing operable window with clear opening area 
no less than 4 square feet (0.38 m2) and minimum 
opening height and width of 22 inches (559 mm)  and 20 
inches (508 mm), respectively, shall be accepted as an 
emergency escape and rescue opening.  
8. Regardless of work areas, existing handrails are 
permitted to comply with the requirements of Section 
603.6.8, and existing guards are permitted to comp ly 
with the requirements of Section 603.6.10.  
9. Fire escapes in compliance with Section 303.  
10. Existing stairways are not required to be altered to 
meet current tread depth and riser height requirements.  705.4 Means of egress for change of occupancy t o equal or 
lower hazard category or without a change in 
classification. When a change of occupancy classification 
is made to an equal or lesser hazard category (higher 
number) as shown in Table 705.2 or a change of 
occupancy without a change of classificat ion is made, the 
means of egress shall be deemed acceptable provided the 
means of egress serving the area of the change of 
occupancy meets the egress capacity and occupant load 
based means of egress provisions in Chapter 10 of the 
VCC for the new occupancy . 
L. Change Section 706 to Heights and Areas.  
M. Change Sections 706.1 through 706.5, including 
subsections, of the IEBC to read:  
706.1 General. Heights and areas of buildings and 
structures undergoing a change of occupancy classification 
shall comply with  this Section.  
706.2 Heights and areas, hazards. Hazard categories in 
regard to height and area shall be in accordance with Table 
706.2.  
TABLE 706.2  
HEIGHTS AND AREAS HAZARD CATEGORIES  
RELATIVE 
HAZARD  OCCUPANCY 
CLASSIFICATIONS  
1 (Highest Hazard)  H 
2 I-2, I-3, I-4 
3 A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, I, R -1, 
R-2, R-4 
4 E, F-1, S-1, M  
5 (Lowest Hazard)  B, F-2, S-2, A-5, R-3, R-5, U 
706.3 Height and area for change to higher hazard 
category. When a change of occupancy classification is 
made to a higher hazard category as shown in Table 706.2, 
heights and areas of buildings and structures shall comply 
with the requirements of Chapter 5  of the VCC for the new 
occupancy classification.  
Exception: For high -rise buildings constructed in 
compliance with a previously issued permit, the type of 
construction reduction specified in Section 403.2.1 of the 
VCC is permitted. This shall include the  reduction for 
columns. The high -rise building is required to be equipped 
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the VCC.  
706.3.1 Fire wall alternative. In other than Groups H, F -1 
and S -1, fire barriers and h orizontal assemblies constructed 
in accordance with Sections 707 and 711, respectively, of 
the VCC shall be permitted to be used in lieu of fire walls 
to subdivide the building into separate buildings for the Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1921 purpose of complying with the area limitations required for 
the new occupancy where all of the following conditions 
are met:  
1. The buildings are protected throughout with an 
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 
903.3.1.1 of the International Building Code.  
2. The maximum allowable a rea between fire barriers, 
horizontal assemblies, or any combination thereof shall 
not exceed the maximum allowable area determined in 
accordance with Chapter 5 of the VCC without an 
increase allowed for an automatic sprinkler system in 
accordance with Sec tion 506 of the VCC.  
3. The fire -resistance rating of the fire barriers and 
horizontal assemblies shall be not less than that specified 
for fire walls in Table 706.4 of the VCC.  
Exception: Where horizontal assemblies are used to limit 
the maximum allowab le area, the required fire -resistance 
rating of the horizontal assemblies shall be permitted to be 
reduced by one hour provided the height and number of 
stories increases allowed for an automatic sprinkler system 
by Section 504 of the VCC are not used for the buildings.  
706.4 Height and area for change to equal or lesser hazard 
category. When a change of occupancy classification is 
made to an equal or lesser hazard category as shown in 
Table 706.2, the height and area of the existing building 
shall be deeme d acceptable.  
706.5 Fire barriers. When a change of occupancy 
classification is made to a higher hazard category as shown 
in Table 706.2, fire barriers in separated mixed use 
buildings shall comply with the fire -resistance 
requirements of the VCC.  
Excepti on: Where the fire barriers are required to have a 
one-hour-fire-resistance rating, existing wood lath and 
plaster in good condition or existing 1/2 -inch-thick (12.7 
mm) gypsum wallboard shall be permitted.  
N. Delete Section 706.6 of the IEBC.  
O. Change Se ction 707 to Exterior Wall Fire -Resistance 
Ratings  
P. Change Sections 707.1 through 707.3, including 
subsections, of the IEBC and add Section 707.4 to the IEBC 
to read:  
707.1 Exterior wall fire -resistance ratings, hazards. Hazard 
categories in regard to fi re-resistance ratings of exterior 
walls shall be in accordance with Table 707.1.  
  TABLE 707.1  
EXPOSURE OF EXTERIOR WALLS HAZARD 
CATEGORIES  
RELATIVE HAZARD  OCCUPANCY 
CLASSIFICATIONS  
1 (Highest Hazard)  H 
2 F-1, M, S -1 
3 A, B, E, I, R  
4 (Lowest Hazard)  F-2, S-2, U 
707.2 Exterior wall rating for change of occupancy 
classification to a higher hazard category. When a change 
of occupancy classification is made to a higher hazard 
category as shown in Table 707.1, exterior walls shall have 
fire resistance and  exterior opening protectives as required 
by the VCC.  
Exception: A two -hour-fire-resistance rating shall be 
allowed where the building does not exceed three stories in 
height and is classified as one of the following groups: A -2 
and A -3 with an occupant l oad of less than 300, B, F, M, or 
S. 
707.3 Exterior wall rating for change of occupancy 
classification to an equal or lesser hazard category. When a 
change of occupancy classification is made to an equal or 
lesser hazard category as shown in Table 707.1, existing 
exterior walls, including openings, shall be accepted.  
707.4 Opening protectives. Openings in exterior walls shall 
be protected as required by the VCC. Where openings in 
the exterior walls are required to be protected because of 
their distance fro m the lot line, the sum of the area of such 
openings shall not exceed 50% of the total area of the wall 
in each story.  
Exceptions:  
1. Where the VCC permits openings in excess of 50%.  
2. Protected openings shall not be required in buildings 
of Group R oc cupancy that do not exceed three stories in 
height and that are located not less than 3 feet (914 mm) 
from the lot line.  
3. Where exterior opening protectives are required, an 
automatic sprinkler system throughout may be 
substituted for opening protection .  
4. Exterior opening protectives are not required when the 
change of occupancy group is to an equal or lower hazard 
classification in accordance with Table 707.1.  
Q. Change Section 708 to Electrical and Lighting.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1922  R. Change Section 708.1 of the IEBC and add Sections 
708.2 through 708.4 to the IEBC to read:  
708.1 Special occupancies. Where a building undergoes a 
change of occupancy to one of the following special 
occupancies as described in NFPA 70, the electrical wiring 
and equipment of the building that contains the proposed 
occupancy shall comply with the applicable requirements 
of NFPA 70:  
1. Hazardous locations.  
2. Commercial garages, repair, and storage.  
3. Aircraft hangars.  
4. Gasoline dispensing and service stations.  
5. Bulk storage plants.  
6. Spray application, dipping, and coating processes.  
7. Health care facilities.  
8. Places of assembly.  
9. Theaters, audience areas of motion picture and 
television studios, and similar locations.  
10. Motion picture and television studios and similar 
locations.  
11. Motion picture projectors.  
12. Agricultural buildings.  
708.2 Service upgrade. When a new occupancy is required 
to have a higher electrical load demand per NFPA 70 and 
the service cannot accommodate the increased demand, the 
service shall be upgraded to meet the requirements of 
NFPA 70 for the new occupancy.  
708.3 Number of electrical outlets. Where a building 
undergoes a change of occupancy, the number of electrical 
outlets shall comply with NFPA 70 for the new occupancy.  
708.4 Lighting. Li ghting shall comply with the 
requirements of the VCC for the new occupancy.  
S. Add Section 709 Mechanical and Ventilation.  
T. Add Section 709.1 to the IEBC to read:  
709.1 Mechanical and ventilation requirements. Where a 
building undergoes a change of occupancy such that the 
new occupancy is subject to different kitchen exhaust 
requirements or to increased ventilation requirements in 
accordance with the International Mechanical Code, the 
new occupancy shall comply with the respective 
International Mecha nical Code provisions.  
U. Add Section 710 Plumbing.  V. Add Sections 710.1 through 710.3 to the IEBC to read:  
710.1 Increased demand. Where the occupancy a building 
undergoes a change of an existing building or part of an 
existing building is changed occupa ncy such that the new 
occupancy is subject to increased or different plumbing 
fixture requirements or to increased water supply 
requirements in accordance with the International 
Plumbing Code, the new occupancy shall comply with the 
intent of the respectiv e International Plumbing Code 
provisions.  
Exception: In other than Group R or I occupancies or child 
care facilities classified as Group E, where the occupant 
load is increased by 20% or less in the area where the 
change of occupancy occurs, additional pl umbing fixtures 
required based on the increased occupant load in quantities 
specified in the International Plumbing Code.  
710.2 Interceptor required. If the new occupancy will 
produce grease or oil -laden wastes, interceptors shall be 
provided as required in the International Plumbing Code.  
710.3 Chemical wastes. If the new occupancy will produce 
chemical wastes, the following shall apply:  
1. If the existing piping is not compatible with the 
chemical waste, the waste shall be neutralized prior to 
entering  the drainage system, or the piping shall be 
changed to a compatible material.  
2. No chemical waste shall discharge to a public sewer 
system without the approval of the sewage authority.  
W. Add Section 711 Structural.  
X. Add Sections 711.1 through 711.3 t o the IEBC to read:  
711.1 Gravity loads. Buildings subject to a change of 
occupancy where such change in the nature of occupancy 
results in higher uniform or concentrated loads based on 
Table 1607.1 of the VCC shall comply with the gravity 
load provisions of the VCC.  
Exception: Structural elements whose stress is not 
increased by more than 5%.  
711.2 Snow and wind loads. Buildings and structures 
subject to a change of occupancy where such change in the 
nature of occupancy results in higher wind or snow ris k 
categories based on Table 1604.5 of the VCC shall be 
analyzed and shall comply with the applicable wind or 
snow load provisions of the VCC.  
Exception: Where the new occupancy with a higher risk 
category is less than or equal to 10% of the total building  
floor area. The cumulative effect of the area of occupancy 
changes shall be considered for the purposes of this 
exception.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1923 711.3 Seismic loads. Existing buildings with a change of 
occupancy shall comply with the seismic provisions of 
Sections 711.3.1 and  711.3.2.  
711.3.1 Compliance with VCC -level seismic forces. Where 
a building is subject to a change of occupancy that results 
in the building being assigned to a higher risk category 
based on Table 1604.5 of the VCC, the building shall 
comply with the requ irements for VCC -level seismic 
forces as specified in Section 305.2.1 for the new risk 
category.  
Exceptions:  
1. Specific detailing provisions required for a new 
structure are not required to be met where it can be 
shown that an equivalent level of perfor mance and 
seismic safety is obtained for the applicable risk category 
based on the provision for reduced VCC -level seismic 
forces as specified in Section 305.2.2.  
2. Where the area of the new occupancy with a higher 
hazard category is less than or equal to  10% of the total 
building floor area and the new occupancy is not 
classified as Risk Category IV. For the purposes of this 
exception, buildings occupied by two or more 
occupancies not included in the same risk category, shall 
be subject to the provisions of Section 1604.5.1 of the 
VCC. The cumulative effect of the area of occupancy 
changes shall be considered for the purposes of this 
exception.  
3. Unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings in Risk 
Category III when assigned to Seismic Design Category 
A or B shall be allowed to be strengthened to meet the 
requirements of Appendix Chapter A1 of this code 
Guidelines for the Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings 
(GSREB).  
711.3.2 Access to Risk Category IV. Where a change of 
occupancy is such that compliance with Section 711.3.1 is 
required and the building is assigned to Risk Category IV, 
the operational access to the building shall not be through 
an adjacent structure, unless that structure conforms to the 
requirements for Risk Category IV structures. Where 
operational access is less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from 
either an interior lot line or from another structure, access 
protection from potential falling debris shall be provided 
by the owner of the Risk Category IV structure.  
Y. Add Section 712 Accessibility . 
Z. Add Section 712.1 to the IEBC to read:  
712.1 General. Existing buildings that undergo a change of 
occupancy classification shall comply with Section 402.  ]  13VAC5 -63-434. Chapter 8 [  Alterations -- Level 2  
Additions  ].  
A. Change  [ the exception in Section  Sections  ] 801.1  
[ through 801.3  ] of the IEBC to read:  
[ Exception: Buildings in which the alteration is 
exclusively the result of compliance with the accessibility 
requirements of Section 705.2 shall be permitted to comply 
with Chapter 7.  
801.1 S cope. Additions to any building or structure shall 
comply with the requirements of the VCC for new 
construction without requiring the existing building or 
structure to comply with any requirements of those codes 
or of these provisions, except as required b y this chapter. 
Where an addition impacts the existing building or 
structure, that portion shall comply with this code. Where a 
fire wall that complies with Section 706 of the VCC is 
provided between the addition and the existing building, 
the addition sha ll be considered a separate building.  
801.2 Creation or extension of nonconformity. An addition 
shall not create or extend any nonconformity in the 
existing building to which the addition is being made with 
regard to accessibility, structural strength, fir e safety, 
means of egress, or the capacity of mechanical, plumbing, 
or electrical systems. Alterations to the existing building or 
structure shall be made so that the existing building or 
structure, together with the addition, are no less 
conforming to the  provisions of the VCC than the existing 
building or structure was prior to the addition.  
801.3 Other work. Any repair or alteration work within an 
existing building to which an addition is being made shall 
comply with the applicable requirements for the w ork as 
classified in this code.  ]  
B. Change [  Exception 2 of  ] Section [  805.2 of the IEBC  to 
read:  802 to Heights and Areas.   
2. Means of egress conforming to the requirements of the 
building code under which the building was constructed 
shall be conside red compliant means of egress.  ]  
B. C. Change [  Item 7 of  ] Section [  805.3.1.1  802.1  ] of the 
IEBC to read:  
[ 7. In Groups R -2, H -4, H -5 and I occupancies and in 
rooming houses and childcare centers, a single exit is 
permitted in a one -story building wi th a maximum 
occupant load of 10 and the exit access travel distance does 
not exceed 75 feet (22 860 mm). In dwelling units within 
Group R -2 buildings, an occupant load of 12 shall be 
permitted to be substituted for the occupant load 
established above and,  in addition, staff of such family day 
homes shall not be counted for the purposes of establishing 
occupant loads.   Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1924  802.1 Height limitations. No addition shall increase the 
height of an existing building beyond that permitted under 
the applicable provision s of Chapter 5 of the VCC for new 
buildings.  ]  
D. [ Change Section 805.3.2 of  Add Sections 802.2 and 
802.3 to  ] the IEBC to read:  
[ 805.3.2 Mezzanines. Mezzanines in the work area and 
with an occupant load of more than 50 or in which the 
common path of eg ress travel distance to an exit or exit 
access doorway exceeds 75 feet (22 860 mm) shall have 
access to at least two independent means of egress.  
Exception: Two independent means of egress are not 
required where the travel distance to an exit does not 
exceed 100 feet (30 480 mm) and the building is protected 
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.  
802.2 Area limitations. No addition shall increase the area 
of an existing building beyond that permitted under the 
applicable provisions of Chapter 5 of t he VCC for new 
buildings unless fire separation as required by the VCC is 
provided.  
Exception: In -filling of floor openings and nonoccupiable 
appendages such as elevator and exit stairway shafts shall 
be permitted beyond that permitted by the VCC.  
802.3 Fire protection systems. Existing fire areas increased 
by the addition shall comply with Chapter 9 of the VCC.  ]  
E. [ Delete Section 805.3.3  Change Section 803 to Stuctural.  
F. Change Sections 803.1 through 803.5, including 
subsections, and delete Section s 803.2.2, 803.2.3, 803.4.1, 
803.5.1 and 803.5.2  ] of the IEBC.  
[ 803.1 Compliance with the VCC. Additions to existing 
buildings or structures are new construction and shall 
comply with the VCC.  
803.2 Existing structural elements carrying gravity load. 
Any existing gravity load -carrying structural element for 
which an addition and its related alterations cause an 
increase in design gravity load of more than 5% shall be 
strengthened, supplemented, replaced or otherwise altered 
as needed to carry the increas ed gravity load required by 
the VCC for new structures. Any existing gravity load -
carrying structural element whose gravity load -carrying 
capacity is decreased shall be considered an altered 
element subject to the requirements of Section 603.7.3. 
Any exist ing element that will form part of the lateral load 
path for any part of the addition shall be considered an 
existing lateral load -carrying structural element subject to 
the requirements of Section 803.3.  
Exception: Buildings of Group R occupancy with no m ore 
than five dwelling units or sleeping units used solely for 
residential purposes where the existing building and the 
addition comply with the conventional light -frame construction methods of the VCC or the provisions of the 
International Residential Cod e. 
803.2.1 Design live load. Where the addition does not 
result in increased design live load, existing gravity load -
carrying structural elements shall be permitted to be 
evaluated and designed for live loads approved prior to the 
addition. If the approved  live load is less than that required 
by Section 1607 of the VCC, the area designed for the 
nonconforming live load shall be posted with placards of 
approved design indicating the approved live load. Where 
the addition does result in increased design live load, the 
live load required by Section 1607 of the VCC shall be 
used.  
803.3 Existing structural elements carrying lateral load. 
Where the addition is structurally independent of the 
existing structure, existing lateral load -carrying structural 
elements sh all be permitted to remain unaltered. Where the 
addition is not structurally independent of the existing 
structure, the existing structure and its addition acting 
together as a single structure shall be shown to meet the 
requirements of Sections 1609 and 1 613 of the VCC. For 
purposes of this section, compliance with ASCE 41, using 
a Tier 3 procedure and the two -level performance objective 
in Table 305.2.1 for the applicable risk category, shall be 
deemed to meet the requirements of Section 1613.   
Exceptions :  
1. Any existing lateral load -carrying structural element 
whose demand -capacity ratio with the addition 
considered is not more than 10% greater than its demand -
capacity ratio with the addition ignored shall be 
permitted to remain unaltered. For purposes of this 
exception, comparisons of demand -capacity ratios and 
calculation of design lateral loads, forces and capacities 
shall account for the cumulative effects of additions and 
alterations since original construction. For purposes of 
calculating demand -capacity ratios, the demand shall 
consider applicable load combinations involving VCC -
level seismic forces in accordance with Section 305.2.1.  
2. Buildings of Group R occupancy with no more than 
five dwelling or sleeping units used solely for residential 
purposes where the existing building and the addition 
comply with the conventional light -frame construction 
methods of the VCC or the provisions of the 
International Residential Code.  
803.4 Voluntary addition of structural elements to improve 
the lateral forc e-resisting system. Voluntary addition of 
structural elements to improve the lateral force -resisting 
system of an existing building shall comply with Section 
603.7.5.  
803.5 Snow drift loads. Any structural element of an 
existing building subjected to addit ional loads from the Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1925 effects of snow drift as a result of an addition shall comply 
with the VCC.  
Exceptions:  
1. Structural elements whose stress is not increased by 
more than 5%.  
2. Buildings of Group R occupancy with no more than 
five dwelling units or  sleeping units used solely for 
residential purposes where the existing building and the 
addition comply with the conventional light -frame 
construction methods of the VCC or the provisions of the 
International Residential Code.  ]  
[ F. Change  G. Delete  ] Section  [ 805.4.1.1 of  803.6 from  ] 
the IEBC  [ to read: . ]  
 [ 805.4.1.1 Occupant load and travel distance. In any work 
area, all rooms and spaces having an occupant load greater 
than 50 or in which the common path of egress travel 
distance to an exit or ex it access doorway exceeds 75 feet 
(22 860 mm) shall have a minimum of two egress 
doorways.  
Exceptions:  
1. Storage rooms having a maximum occupant load of 
10. 
2. Where the work area is served by a single exit in 
accordance with Section 805.3.1.1.   
G. H. ] Change Section  [ 808.3 of the IEBC  804 ] to [ read:  
Flood Hazard Areas.  ]  
 [ 808.3 Residential occupancies. In Groups R -2, R-3, R-4, 
and R -5 occupancies and buildings regulated by the IRC, 
the requirements of Sections 808.3.1 through 808.3.7 shall 
be appli cable only to work areas located within a dwelling 
unit. 
H. I. ] Change Section  [ 809.1  804.1  ] of the IEBC to read:  
[ 809.1 Work areas or converted spaces. All work areas 
intended for occupancy and all spaces converted to 
habitable or occupiable space in any work area shall be 
provided with natural or mechanical ventilation in 
accordance with the International Mechanical Code.  
Exception: Existing mechanical ventilation systems shall 
comply with the requirements of Section 809.2.  
I. 804.1 Flood hazard areas . Additions and foundations in 
flood hazard areas shall comply with the following 
requirements:  
1. For horizontal additions that are structurally 
interconnected to the existing building:  
1.1. If the addition and all other proposed work, when 
combined, co nstitute substantial improvement, the 
existing building and the addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the International Building Code or 
Section R322 of the International Residential Code, as 
applicable.  
1.2. If the addition constitutes substantial i mprovement, 
the existing building and the addition shall comply with 
Section 1612 of the International Building Code or 
Section R322 of the International Residential Code, as 
applicable.  
2. For horizontal additions that are not structurally 
interconnected  to the existing building:  
2.1. The addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the 
International Building Code or Section R322 of the 
International Residential Code, as applicable.  
2.2. If the addition and all other proposed work when 
combined constitute  substantial improvement, the 
existing building and the addition shall comply with 
Section 1612 of the International Building Code or 
Section R322 of the International Residential Code, as 
applicable.  
3. For vertical additions and all other proposed work that 
when combined constitute substantial improvement, the 
existing building shall comply with Section 1612 of the 
International Building Code or Section R322 of the 
International Residential Code, as applicable.  
4. For a raised or extended foundation, if  the foundation 
work and all other proposed work when combined 
constitute substantial improvement, the existing building 
shall comply with Section 1612 of the International 
Building Code or Section R322 of the International 
Residential Code, as applicable.   
5. For a new foundation or replacement foundation, the 
foundation shall comply with Section 1612 of the 
International Building Code or Section R322 of the 
International Residential Code, as applicable.  
J. Delete Sections 805, 806, 807, 808, 809, 810, and  811, in 
their entirety, from the IEBC.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-434.5. Chapter 9  [ Alterations -- Level 3  
Historic buildings  ]. 
A. Change  [ Section  Sections 901.1 and  ] 901.2 of the IEBC 
to read:  
[ 901.1 Scope. It is the intent of this chapter to provide 
means for th e preservation of historic buildings. The 
provisions of this code relating to construction involving 
historic buildings shall not be mandatory unless such a 
construction constitutes a life safety hazard. Accessibility 
shall be provided in accordance with S ection 405.  ]  
901.2  [ Compliance. In addition to the provisions of this 
chapter, work shall comply with all of the requirements of 
Chapters 7 and 8. The requirements of Sections 803, 804, Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1926  and 805 shall apply within all work areas whether or not 
they include exits and corridors shared by more than one 
tenant and regardless of the occupant load. Exception: 
Buildings in which the alteration affecting exits or shared 
egress access is exclusively the result of compliance with 
the accessibility requirements  of Section 705.2 shall not be 
required to comply with this chapter.  Report. The code 
official shall be permitted to require that a historic building 
undergoing repair, alteration or change of occupancy be 
investigated and evaluated by an RDP or other qual ified 
person or agency as a condition of determining compliance 
with this code.   
B. [ Change  Add ] Section  [ 903.1 of  901.3 to  ] the IEBC to 
read:  
[ 903.1 Existing stairways. Existing stairways that are part 
of the means of egress shall be enclosed in acco rdance with 
Section 803.2.1, and its exceptions if applicable, from the 
highest work area floor to and including the level of exit 
discharge and all floors below.  901.3 Special occupancy 
exceptions. When a building in Group R -3 is also used for 
Group A, B,  or M purposes such as museum tours, 
exhibits, and other public assembly activities, or for 
museums less than 3,000 square feet (279 m2), the code 
official may determine that the occupancy is Group B 
when life safety conditions can be demonstrated in 
accor dance with Section 901.2. Adequate means of egress 
in such buildings, which may include a means of 
maintaining doors in an open position to permit egress, a 
limit on building occupancy to an occupant load permitted 
by the means of egress capacity, a limit on occupancy of 
certain areas or floors, or supervision by a person 
knowledgeable in the emergency exiting procedures, shall 
be provided.  ]  
C. Change Section  [ 904.2 of the IEBC  902 ] to [ read:  
Flood hazard areas.  
904.2 Fire alarm and detection systems. Fire alarm and 
detection shall be provided throughout the work area in 
accordance with Section 907 of the IBC as required for 
new construction.  
D. Change Section 902.1 of the IEBC to read:  
902.1 Flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas, if all 
proposed wo rk, including repairs, work required because 
of a change of occupancy, and alterations, constitutes 
substantial improvement, then the existing building shall 
comply with Section 1612 of the International Building 
Code or Section R322 of the International R esidential 
Code, as applicable.  
Exception: If an historic building will continue to be an 
historic building after the proposed work is completed, 
then the proposed work is not considered a substantial 
improvement. For the purposes of this exception, an 
historic building is:  1. Listed or preliminarily determined to be eligible for 
listing in the National Register of Historic Places;  
2. Determined by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of 
Interior as contributing to the historical significance of a 
regist ered historic district or a district preliminarily 
determined to qualify as an historic district; or  
3. Designated as historic under a state or local historic 
preservation program that is approved by the Department 
of Interior.  
E. Delete Section 902.2 of the IEBC.  
F. Change Section 903 to Repairs.  
G. Change Sections 903.1 through 903.3, including 
subsections, to read:  
903.1 General. Repairs to any portion of an historic 
building or structure shall be permitted with original or like 
materials and original m ethods of construction, subject to 
the provisions of this chapter. Hazardous materials, such as 
asbestos and lead -based paint, shall not be used where the 
code for new construction would not permit their use in 
buildings of similar occupancy, purpose and l ocation.  
903.2 Moved buildings. Foundations of moved historic 
buildings and structures shall comply with the VCC. 
Moved historic buildings shall otherwise be considered an 
historic building for the purposes of this code. Moved 
historic buildings and struct ures shall be sited so that 
exterior wall and opening requirements comply with the 
VCC or with the compliance alternatives of this code.  
903.3 Replacement. Replacement of existing or missing 
features using original materials shall be permitted. Partial 
replacement for repairs that match the original in 
configuration, height, and size shall be permitted. 
Replacement glazing in hazardous locations shall comply 
with the safety glazing requirements of Chapter 24 of the 
VCC.  
Exception: Glass block walls, louve red windows, and 
jalousies repaired with like materials.  
H. Change Section 904 to Fire Safety.  
I. Change Sections 904.1 and 904.2, deleting subsections, of 
the IEBC to read:  
904.1 Scope. Except as provided in Section 901, historic 
buildings undergoing alte rations, changes of occupancy, or 
that are moved shall comply with this section.  
904.2 General. Every historic building that does not 
conform to the construction requirements specified in this 
code for the occupancy or use and that constitutes a distinct 
fire hazard as defined in this code shall be provided with 
an approved automatic fire -extinguishing system as 
determined appropriate by the code official. However, an 
automatic fire -extinguishing system shall not be used to Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1927 substitute for, or act as an alt ernative to, the required 
number of exits from any facility.  
J. Add Sections 904.3 through 904.12, including 
subsections, to the IEBC to read:  
904.3 Means of egress. Existing door openings and 
corridor and stairway widths less than those specified 
elsewher e in this code shall be permitted, provided there is 
sufficient width and height for a person to pass through the 
opening or traverse the means of egress. The front or main 
exit doors need not swing in the direction of the path of 
exit travel, provided tha t other approved means of egress 
having sufficient capacity to serve the total occupant load 
are provided.  
904.4 Transoms. In fully sprinklered buildings of Group R -
1, R-2 or R -3 occupancy, existing transoms in corridors 
and other fire -resistance -rated wal ls may be maintained if 
fixed in the closed position. A sprinkler shall be installed 
on each side of the transom.  
904.5 Interior finishes. The existing finishes of walls and 
ceilings shall be accepted when it is demonstrated that they 
are the historic fin ishes.  
904.6 Stairway enclosure. In buildings of three stories or 
less, exit enclosure construction shall limit the spread of 
smoke by the use of tight -fitting doors and solid elements. 
Such elements are not required to have a fire -resistance 
rating.  
904.7 One -hour-fire-resistant assemblies. Where one -hour-
fire-resistance -rated construction is required by these 
provisions, it need not be provided, regardless of 
construction or occupancy, where the existing wall and 
ceiling finish is wood or metal lath and plaster.  
904.8 Glazing in fire -resistance -rated systems. Historic 
glazing materials are permitted in interior walls required to 
have a one -hour-fire-resistance rating where the opening is 
provided with approved smoke seals and the area affected 
is provided with an automatic sprinkler system.  
904.9 Stairway railings. Grand stairways shall be accepted 
without complying with the handrail and guard 
requirements. Existing handrails and guards at all stairways 
shall be permitted to remain, provided they are not 
structura lly dangerous.  
904.10 Guards. Guards shall comply with Sections 
904.10.1 and 904.10.2.  
904.10.1 Height. Existing guards shall comply with the 
requirements of Section 604.  
904.10.2 Guard openings. The spacing between existing 
intermediate railings or ope nings in existing ornamental 
patterns shall be accepted. Missing elements or members 
of a guard may be replaced in a manner that will preserve 
the historic appearance of the building or structure.  904.11 Exit signs. Where exit sign or egress path marking 
location would damage the historic character of the 
building, alternative exit signs are permitted with approval 
of the code official. Alternative signs shall identify the 
exits and egress path.  
904.12 Automatic fire -extinguishing systems. Every 
historical building that cannot be made to conform to the 
construction requirements specified in the VCC for the 
occupancy or use and that constitutes a distinct fire hazard 
shall be deemed to be in compli ance if provided with an 
approved automatic fire -extinguishing system.  
Exception: When the code official approves an alternative 
life safety system.  
K. Change Section 905 to Alterations.  
L. Change Section 905.1 to the IEBC to read:  
905.1 General. The prov isions of Chapter 6, as applicable, 
shall apply to facilities designated as historic structures that 
undergo alterations, unless technically infeasible.  
M. Delete Sections 905.2 and 905.3 of the IEBC.  
N. Change Section 906 to Change of Occupancy.  
O. Change  Sections 906.1 and 906.2 of the IEBC to read:  
906.1 General. Historic buildings undergoing a change of 
occupancy shall comply with the applicable provisions of 
Chapter 7, except as specifically permitted in this chapter. 
When Chapter 7 requires compliance  with specific 
requirements of Chapter 6 and when those requirements 
are subject to the exceptions in Section 903, the same 
exceptions shall apply to this section.  
906.2 Building area. The allowable floor area for historic 
buildings undergoing a change of  occupancy shall be 
permitted to exceed by 20% the allowable areas specified 
in Chapter 5 of the VCC.  
P. Add Sections 906.3 through 906.14 to the IEBC to read:  
906.3 Location on property. Historic structures undergoing 
a change of use to a higher hazard ca tegory in accordance 
with Section 707.1 may use alternative methods to comply 
with the fire -resistance and exterior opening protective 
requirements. Such alternatives shall comply with Section 
901.2.  
906.4 Occupancy separation. Required occupancy 
separati ons of one hour may be omitted when the building 
is provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system 
throughout.  
906.5 Roof covering. Regardless of occupancy or use 
group, Roof covering materials not less than Class C, when 
tested in accordance with A STM E 108 or UL 790, shall be 
permitted where a fire -retardant roof covering is required.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1928  906.6 Means of egress. Existing door openings and 
corridor and stairway widths less than those that would be 
acceptable for nonhistoric buildings under these provisi ons 
shall be permitted, provided there is sufficient width and 
height for a person to pass through the opening or traverse 
the exit and that the capacity of the exit system is adequate 
for the occupant load or where other operational controls to 
limit occu pancy are approved by the code official.  
906.7 Door swing. Existing front doors need not swing in 
the direction of exit travel, provided that other approved 
exits having sufficient capacity to serve the total occupant 
load are provided.  
906.8 Transoms. I n corridor walls required by these 
provisions to be fire -resistance rated, existing transoms 
may be maintained if fixed in the closed position and fixed 
wired glass set in a steel frame or other approved glazing 
shall be installed on one side of the transo m.  
Exception: Transoms conforming to Section 904.4 shall be 
accepted.  
906.9 Finishes. Where interior finish materials are required 
to have a flame spread index of Class C or better, when 
tested in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723, existing 
nonconformi ng materials shall be surfaced with approved 
fire-retardant paint or finish.  
Exception: Existing nonconforming materials need not be 
surfaced with an approved fire -retardant paint or finish 
where the building is equipped throughout with an 
automatic sprin kler system installed in accordance with the 
VCC and the nonconforming materials can be 
substantiated as being historic in character.  
906.10 One -hour-fire-resistant assemblies. Where one -
hour-fire-resistance -rated construction is required by these 
provisi ons, it need not be provided, regardless of 
construction or occupancy, where the existing wall and 
ceiling finish is wood lath and plaster.  
906.11 Stairways and guards. Existing stairways shall 
comply with the requirements of these provisions. The 
code off icial shall grant alternatives for stairways and 
guards if alternative stairways are found to be acceptable 
or are judged to meet the intent of these provisions. 
Existing stairways shall comply with Section 904.  
Exception: For buildings less than 3,000 square feet (279 
m2), existing conditions are permitted to remain at all 
stairways and guards.  
906.12 Exit signs. Where exit signs would damage the 
historic character of the building or structure, alternative 
locations shall be permitted. Such signs shall  identify the 
exits and exit paths.  
906.13 Exit stair live load. Existing stairways in buildings 
changed to a Group R -1 or R -2 occupancy shall be permitted where it can be shown that the stairway can 
support a 75 -pounds -per-square -foot (366 kg/m2) live lo ad.  
906.14 Natural light. When the natural light requirements 
of Section 709.1 will lead to loss of historic character or 
historic materials in the building, the existing level of 
natural lighting shall be considered acceptable.  
Q. Change Section 907 to S tructural.  
R. Change Section 907.1 of the IEBC to read:  
907.1 General. Historic buildings shall comply with the 
applicable structural provisions for the work as classified 
in Section 103.10.  
Exception: The code official shall be authorized to accept 
exist ing floors and approve operational controls that limit 
the live load on any such floor.  
S. Delete Sections 907.2 through 907.4, including 
subsections, of the IEBC.  
T. Delete Section 908 of the IEBC in its entirety.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-435. Chapter 10  [ Change of occupancy  
Moved buildings and structures  ]. 
[ Add Group R -5 to the occupancy classifications listed 
under the fourth relative hazard level in Tables 1012.4 and 
1012.5.  
A. Change Section 1001 to General.  
B. Change Sections 1001.1 through 1001.3, deleting 
subsections, of the IEBC to read:  
1001.1 Scope. This chapter provides requirements for 
moved buildings and structures.  
1001.2 Conformance. Any repair, alteration, or change of 
occupancy undertaken within the moved building or 
structure shall comply with the requirements of this code 
applicable to the work being performed. Any field 
fabricated elements shall comply with the requirements of 
the VCC or the International Residential Code as 
applicable.  
1001.3 Required inspection and repairs. The code official 
shall be authorized to inspect, or to require approved 
professionals to inspect at the expense of the owner, the 
various structural parts of a moved building or structure to 
verify that structural components and connections have not 
sustained structural damag e. Any repairs required by the 
code official as a result of such inspection shall be made 
prior to the final approval.  
C. Change Section 1002 to Requirements.  
D. Change Sections 1002.1 and 1002.2 and add Section 
1002.2.1 to the IEBC to read:  
1002.1 Locatio n on the lot. The building or structure shall 
be located on the lot in accordance with the requirements Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1929 of the VCC or the International Residential Code as 
applicable.  
1002.2 Foundation. The foundation system of moved 
buildings and structures shall comply with the VCC or the 
International Residential Code as applicable.  
1002.2.1 Connection to the foundation. The connection of 
the moved building or structure to the found ation shall 
comply with the VCC or the International Residential Code 
as applicable.  
E. Add Sections 1002.3 through 1002.6, including 
subsections, to the IEBC to read:  
1002.3 Wind loads. Buildings and structures shall comply 
with VCC or International Resid ential Code wind 
provisions at the new location as applicable.  
Exceptions:  
1. Detached one -family and two -family dwellings and 
Group U occupancies where wind loads at the new 
location are not higher than those at the previous 
location.  
2. Structural elements whose stress is not increased by 
more than 10%.  
1002.4 Seismic loads. Buildings and structures shall 
comply with VCC or International Residential Code 
seismic provisions at the new location as applicable.  
Exceptions:  
1. Structures in Seismic Des ign Categories A and B and 
detached one -family and two -family dwellings in 
Seismic Design Categories A, B, and C where the 
seismic loads at the new location are not higher than 
those at the previous location.  
2. Structural elements whose stress is not inc reased by 
more than 10%.  
1002.5 Snow loads. Buildings and structures shall comply 
with VCC or International Residential Code snow loads as 
applicable where snow loads at the new location are higher 
than those at the previous location.  
Exception: Structura l elements whose stress is not 
increased by more than 5%.  
1002.6 Flood hazard areas. If moved into a flood hazard 
area, buildings and structures shall comply with Section 
1612 of the VCC, or Section R322 of the International 
Residential Code, as applicabl e. 
F. Delete Sections 1003, 1004, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1008, 
1009, 1010, 1011, and 1012 of the IEBC in their entirety.   13VAC5 -63-435.5. Chapter 11 Retrofit requirements.  
A. Replace Chapter 11 of the IEBC with the following:  
B. Change the title of Chapter 11 of the IEBC to "Retrofit 
Requirements."  
C. Add IEBC Section 1101 General.  
D. Add Section 1101.1 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.1 Scope. In accordance with Section 103.7 of the 
VCC and as set out in this code, the following buildings 
are required to be provide d with certain fire protection 
equipment or systems or other retrofitted components.  
E. Add Section 1101.2 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.2 Smoke detectors in colleges and universities. In 
accordance with § 36 -99.3 of the Code of Virginia, college 
and univers ity buildings containing dormitories for 
sleeping purposes shall be provided with battery -powered 
or AC -powered smoke detector devices installed therein in 
accordance with this code in effect on July 1, 1982. All 
public and private college and university d ormitories shall 
have installed such detectors regardless of when the 
building was constructed. The chief administrative office 
of the college or university shall obtain a certificate of 
compliance with the provisions of this subsection from the 
building o fficial of the locality in which the college or 
university is located or, in the case of state -owned 
buildings, from the Director of the Virginia Department of 
General Services. The provisions of this section shall not 
apply to any dormitory at a state -supported military college 
or university that is patrolled 24 hours a day by military 
guards.  
F. Add Section 1101.3 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.3 Smoke detectors in certain juvenile care facilities. 
In accordance with § 36 -99.4 of the Code of Virginia, 
batter y-powered or AC -powered smoke detectors shall be 
installed in all local and regional detention homes, group 
homes, and other residential care facilities for children and 
juveniles that are operated by or under the auspices of the 
Virginia Department of Juv enile Justice, regardless of 
when the building was constructed, by July 1, 1986, in 
accordance with the provisions of this code that were in 
effect on July 1, 1984. Administrators of such homes and 
facilities shall be responsible for the installation of th e 
smoke detector devices.  
G. Add Section 1101.4 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.4 Smoke detectors for the deaf and hearing -impaired. 
In accordance with § 36 -99.5 of the Code of Virginia, 
smoke detectors providing an effective intensity of not less 
than 100 can dela to warn a deaf or hearing -impaired 
individual shall be provided, upon request by the occupant 
to the landlord or proprietor, to any deaf or hearing -Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1930  impaired occupant of any of the following occupancies, 
regardless of when constructed:  
1. All dormitor y buildings arranged for the shelter and 
sleeping accommodations of more than 20 individuals;  
2. All multiple -family dwellings having more than two 
dwelling units, including all dormitories and boarding 
and lodging houses arranged for shelter and sleeping  
accommodations of more than five individuals; or  
3. All buildings arranged for use as one -family or two -
family dwelling units.  
A tenant shall be responsible for the maintenance and 
operation of the smoke detector in the tenant's unit.  
A hotel or motel shall have available no fewer than one 
such smoke detector for each 70 units or portion thereof, 
except that this requirement shall not apply to any hotel or 
motel with fewer than 35 units. The proprietor of the hotel 
or motel shall post in a conspicuous p lace at the 
registration desk or counter a permanent sign stating the 
availability of smoke detectors for the hearing impaired. 
Visual detectors shall be provided for all meeting rooms 
for which an advance request has been made.  
H. Add Sections 1101.5, 1101.5.1, and 1101.5.2 to the IEBC 
to read:  
1101.5 Assisted living facilities (formerly known as adult 
care residences or homes for adults). Existing assisted 
living facilities licensed by the Virginia Department of 
Social Services  shall comply with section s 1101.5.1 and 
1101.5.2 .  
1101.5.1 Fire protective signaling system and fire detection 
system. A fire protective signaling system and an 
automatic fire detection system meeting the requirements 
of the USBC, Volume I, 1987 Edition,  Third Amendment, 
shall be installed in assisted living facilities by August 1, 
1994.  
Exception: Assisted living facilities that are equipped 
throughout with a fire protective signaling system and an 
automatic fire detection system.  
1101.5.2 Single -station and multiple -station smoke 
detectors. Battery -powered or AC -powered single -station 
and multiple -station smoke detectors meeting the 
requirements of the USBC, Volume I, 1987 Edition, Third 
Amendment, shall be installed in assisted living facilities 
by Au gust 1, 1994.  
Exception: Assisted living facilities that are equipped 
throughout with single -station and multiple -station smoke 
detectors.  
I. Add Section 1101.6 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.6 Smoke detectors in buildings containing dwelling 
units. AC -power ed smoke detectors with battery backup or an equivalent device shall be required to be installed to 
replace a defective or inoperative battery -powered smoke 
detector located in buildings containing one or more 
dwelling units or rooming houses offering to r ent overnight 
sleeping accommodations when it is determined by the 
building official that the responsible party of such building 
or dwelling unit fails to maintain battery -powered smoke 
detectors in working condition.  
J. Add Section 1101.7 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.7 Fire suppression, fire alarm, and fire detection 
systems in nursing homes and facilities. Fire suppression 
systems as required by the edition of this code in effect on 
October 1, 1990, shall be installed in all nursing facilities 
licensed by the Virginia Department of Health by January 
1, 1993, regardless of when such facilities or institutions 
were constructed. Units consisting of certified long -term 
care beds located on the ground floor of general hospitals 
shall be exempt from the requireme nts of this section.  
Fire alarm or fire detector systems, or both, as required by 
the edition of this code in effect on October 1, 1990, shall 
be installed in all nursing homes and nursing facilities 
licensed by the Virginia Department of Health by August  
1, 1994.  
K. Add Section 1101.8 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.8 Fire suppression systems in hospitals. Fire 
suppression systems shall be installed in all hospitals 
licensed by the Virginia Department of Health as required 
by the edition of this code in effec t on October 1, 1995, 
regardless of when such facilities were constructed.  
L. Add Section 1101.9 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.9 Identification of disabled parking spaces by above 
grade signage. All parking spaces reserved for the use of 
persons with disabilities shall be identified by above grade 
signs, regardless of whether identification of such spaces 
by above grade signs  was required when any particular 
space was reserved for the use of persons with disabilities. 
A sign or symbol painted or otherwise displayed on the 
pavement of a parking space shall not constitute an above 
grade sign. Any parking space not identified by an above 
grade sign shall not be a parking space reserved for the 
disabled within the meaning of this section. All above 
grade disabled parking space signs shall have the bottom 
edge of the sign no lower than 4 feet (1219 mm) nor higher 
than 7 feet (2133 m m) above the parking surface. Such 
signs shall be designed and constructed in accordance with 
the provisions of Chapter 11 of this code. All disabled 
parking signs shall include the following language: 
"PENALTY, $100 -500 Fine, TOW -AWAY ZONE." Such 
language  may be placed on a separate sign and attached 
below existing above grade disabled parking signs, 
provided that the bottom edge of the attached sign is no 
lower than 4 feet above the parking surface.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1931 M. Add Section 1101.10 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.10 Sm oke detectors in hotels and motels. Smoke 
detectors shall be installed in hotels and motels as required 
by the edition of VR 394 -01-22, USBC, Volume II, in 
effect on March 1, 1990, by the dates indicated, regardless 
of when constructed.  
N. Add Section 110 1.11 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.11 Sprinkler systems in hotels and motels. By 
September 1, 1997, an automatic sprinkler system shall be 
installed in hotels and motels as required by the edition of 
VR 394 -01-22, USBC, Volume II, in effect on March 1, 
1990, regardless of when constructed.  
O. Add Section 1101.12 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.12 Fire suppression systems in dormitories. An 
automatic fire suppression system shall be provided 
throughout all buildings having a Group R -2 fire area that 
are more than 7 5 feet (22,860 mm) or six stories above the 
lowest level of exit discharge and are used, in whole or in 
part, as a dormitory to house students by any public or 
private institution of higher education, regardless of when 
such buildings were constructed, in accordance with the 
edition of this code in effect on August 20, 1997, and the 
requirements for sprinkler systems under the edition of the 
NFPA 13 standard referenced by that code. The automatic 
fire suppression system shall be installed by September 1, 
1999. The chief administrative office of the college or 
university shall obtain a certificate of compliance from the 
building official of the locality in which the college or 
university is located or, in the case of state -owned 
buildings, from the Director o f the Virginia Department of 
General Services.  
Exceptions:  
1. Buildings equipped with an automatic fire suppression 
system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the 1983 
or later editions of NFPA 13.  
2. Any dormitory at a state -supported military colle ge or 
university that is patrolled 24 hours a day by military 
guards.  
3. Application of the requirements of this section shall be 
modified in accordance with the following:  
3.1. Building systems, equipment, or components other 
than the fire suppression s ystem shall not be required to 
be added or upgraded except as necessary for the 
installation of the fire suppression system and shall only 
be required to be added or upgraded where the 
installation of the fire suppression system creates an 
unsafe condition .  
3.2. Residential sprinklers shall be used in all sleeping 
rooms. Other sprinklers shall be quick response or 
residential unless deemed unsuitable for a space. Standard response sprinklers shall be used in elevator 
hoistways and machine rooms.  
3.3. Spri nklers shall not be required in wardrobes in 
sleeping rooms that are considered part of the building 
construction or in closets in sleeping rooms when such 
wardrobes or closets (i) do not exceed 24 square feet 
(2.23 m2) in area, (ii) have the smallest dime nsion less 
than 36 inches (914 mm), and (iii) comply with all of the 
following:  
3.3.1. A single -station smoke detector monitored by the 
building fire alarm system is installed in the room 
containing the wardrobe or closet that will activate the 
general alarm for the building if the single station smoke 
detector is not cleared within f ive minutes after 
activation.  
3.3.2. The minimum number of sprinklers required for 
calculating the hydraulic demand of the system for the 
room shall be increased by two, and the two additional 
sprinklers shall be corridor sprinklers where the 
wardrobe or closet is used to divide the room. Rooms 
divided by a wardrobe or closet shall be considered one 
room for the purpose of this requirement.  
3.3.3. The ceiling of the wardrobe, closet, or room shall 
have a fire resistance rating of not less than 1/2 hour.  
3.4. Not more than one sprinkler shall be required in 
bathrooms within sleeping rooms or suites having a floor 
area between 55 square feet (5.12 m2) and 120 square 
feet (11.16 m2), provided the sprinkler is located to 
protect the lavatory area and the plum bing fixtures are of 
a noncombustible material.  
3.5. Existing standpipe residual pressure shall be 
permitted to be reduced when the standpipe serves as the 
water supply for the fire suppression system, provided 
the water supply requirements of NFPA 13 -94 are met.  
3.6. Limited service controllers shall be permitted for fire 
pumps when used in accordance with their listing.  
3.7. Where a standby power system is required, a source 
of power in accordance with Section 701 -11(d) or 701 -
11(e) of NFPA 70 -96 shall  be permitted.  
P. Add Section 1101.13 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.13 Fire extinguishers and smoke detectors in SRCFs. 
SRCFs shall be provided with at least one approved type 
ABC portable fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 
2A10BC installed in each k itchen. In addition, SRCFs 
shall provide at least one approved and properly installed 
battery operated smoke detector outside of each sleeping 
area in the vicinity of bedrooms and bedroom hallways and 
on each additional floor.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1932  Q. Add Section 1101.14 to th e IEBC to read:  
1101.14 Smoke detectors in adult day care centers. 
Battery -powered or AC -powered smoke detector devices 
shall be installed in all adult day care centers licensed by 
the Virginia Department of Social Services, regardless of 
when the buildin g was constructed. The location and 
installation of the smoke detectors shall be determined by 
the provisions of this code in effect on October 1, 1990. 
The licensee shall obtain a certificate of compliance from 
the building official of the locality in whi ch the center is 
located or, in the case of state -owned buildings, from the 
Director of the Virginia Department of General Services.  
R. Add Section 1101.15 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.15 Posting of occupant load. Every room or space 
that is an assembly occ upancy, and where the occupant 
load of that room or space is 50 or more, shall have the 
occupant load of the room or space as determined by the 
building official posted in a conspicuous place near the 
main exit or exit access doorway from the room or space . 
Posted signs shall be of an approved legible permanent 
design and shall be maintained by the owner or owner's 
authorized agent.  
S. Add Section 1101.16 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.16 ALFSTs. Existing ALFSTs, regardless of when 
constructed, shall by Octobe r 1, 2011, meet the applicable 
requirements of API 653 and TFI RMIP for suitability for 
service and inspections and shall provide a secondary 
containment system complying with Section 426.3 of the 
VCC.  
T. Add Section 1101.17 to the IEBC to read:  
1101.17 Standards for replacement glass. In accordance 
with § 36 -99.2 of the Code of Virginia, any replacement 
glass installed in buildings constructed prior to the first 
edition of the USBC shall meet the quality and installation 
standards for glass installed in new buildings as are in 
effect at the time of installation. In addition, as a 
requirement of this code, the installation or replacement of 
glass in buildings constructed under any edition of the 
USBC shall be as required for new installations.   
 [ 13VAC5 -63-438. Chapter 12 Historic buildings  
Construction safeguards .  
Change Section 1201.2 of the IEBC to read:  
1201.2 Report. The code official shall be permitted to 
require that an historic building undergoing repair, 
alteration or change of occupancy be inve stigated and 
evaluated by an RDP or other qualified person or agency as 
a condition of determining compliance with this code.  A. Replace Chapter 12 of the IEBC with the following:  
B. Change the title of Chapter 12 of the IEBC to 
"Construction Safeguards."  
C. Add Section 1201 General.  
D. Add Sections 1201.1 through 1201.4 to the IEBC to read:  
1201.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern 
safety during construction that is under the jurisdiction of 
this code and the protection of adjacent public and private 
properties.  
1201.2 Storage and placement. Construction equipment 
and materials shall be stored and placed so as not to 
endanger the public, the workers, or adjoining property for 
the duration of the construction project.  
1201.3 Alterations, repairs, and additions. Required exits, 
existing structural elements, fire protection devices, and 
sanitary safeguards shall be maintained at all times during 
alterations, repairs, or additions to any building or 
structure.  
Exceptions:  
1. When such require d elements or devices are being 
altered or repaired, adequate substitute provisions shall 
be made.  
2. When the existing building is not occupied.  
1201.4 Manner of removal. Waste materials shall be 
removed in a manner which prevents injury or damage to 
persons, adjoining properties, and public rights -of-way.  
E. Add Sections 1201.5 through 1201.7, including 
subsections, to the IEBC to read:  
1201.5 Fire safety during construction. Fire safety during 
construction shall comply with the applicable requirement s 
of the International Building Code and the applicable 
provisions of Chapter 33 of the International Fire Code.  
1201.6 Protection of pedestrians. Pedestrians shall be 
protected during construction and demolition activities as 
required by Section 1201.6.1 through 1201.6.7 and Table 
1201.6. Signs shall be provided to direct pedestrian traffic.  
1201.6.1 Walkways. A walkway shall be provided for 
pedestrian travel in front of every construction and 
demolition site unless the applicable governing authority 
authorizes the sidewalk to be fenced or closed. Walkways 
shall be of sufficient width to accommodate the pedestrian 
traffic, but in no case shall they be less than 4 feet (1219 
mm) in width. Walkways shall be provided with a durable 
walking surface. Walkways s hall be accessible in 
accordance with Chapter 11 of the International Building 
Code and shall be designed to support all imposed loads 
and in no case shall the design live load be less than 150 
pounds per square foot (psf) (7.2 kN/m2). Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1933 1201.6.2 Directional  barricades. Pedestrian traffic shall be 
protected by a directional barricade where the walkway 
extends into the street. The directional barricade shall be of 
sufficient size and construction to direct vehicular traffic 
away from the pedestrian path.  
1201. 6.3 Construction railings. Construction railings shall 
be at least 42 inches (1067 mm) in height and shall be 
sufficient to direct pedestrians around construction areas.  
1201.6.4 Barriers. Barriers shall be a minimum of 8 feet 
(2438 mm) in height and shall  be placed on the side of the 
walkway nearest the construction. Barriers shall extend the 
entire length of the construction site. Openings in such 
barriers shall be protected by doors which are normally 
kept closed.  
1201.6.4.1 Barrier design. Barriers shal l be designed to 
resist loads required in Chapter 16 of the International 
Building Code unless constructed as follows:  
1. Barriers shall be provided with 2 -inch by 4 -inch top 
and bottom plates.  
2. The barrier material shall be a minimum of 3/4 -inch 
(19.1  mm) boards or 1/4 -inch (6.4 mm) wood structural 
use panels.  
3. Wood structural use panels shall be bonded with an 
adhesive identical to that for exterior wood structural use 
panels.  
4. Wood structural use panels 1/4 -inch (6.4 mm) or 1/16 -
inch (1.6 mm) in  thickness shall have studs spaced not 
more than 2 feet (610 mm) on center.  
5. Wood structural use panels 3/8 -inch (9.5 mm) or 1/2 -
inch (12.7 mm) in thickness shall have studs spaced not 
more than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center, provided a 2 -inch 
by 4 -inch (51  mm by 102 mm) stiffener is placed 
horizontally at the mid -height where the stud spacing 
exceeds 2 feet (610 mm) on center.  
6. Wood structural use panels 5/8 -inch (15.9 mm) or 
thicker shall not span over 8 feet (2438 mm).  
1201.6.5 Covered walkways. Covere d walkways shall have 
a minimum clear height of 8 feet (2438 mm) as measured 
from the floor surface to the canopy overhead. Adequate 
lighting shall be provided at all times. Covered walkways 
shall be designed to support all imposed loads. In no case 
shall the design live load be less than 150 psf (7.2 kN/m2) 
for the entire structure.  
Exception:  Roofs and supporting structures of covered 
walkways for new, light -frame construction not exceeding 
two stories above grade plane are permitted to be designed 
for a  live load of 75 psf (3.6 kN/m2) or the loads imposed 
on them, whichever is greater. In lieu of such designs, the 
roof and supporting structure of a covered walkway are 
permitted to be constructed as follows:  1. Footings shall be continuous 2 -inch by 6 -inch members.  
2. Posts not less than 4 -inches by 6 -inches shall be provided 
on both sides of the roof and spaced not more than 12 feet 
(3658 mm) on center.  
3. Stringers not less than 4 -inches by 12 -inches shall be 
placed on edge upon the posts.  
4. Joists res ting on the stringers shall be at least 2 -inches by 
8-inches and shall be spaced not more than 2 feet (610 mm) 
on center.  
5. The deck shall be planks at least 2 inches (51 mm) thick 
or wood structural panels with an exterior exposure 
durability classificat ion at least 2 -3/32-inch (18.3 mm) thick 
nailed to the joists.  
6. Each post shall be knee -braced to joists and stringers by 
2-inch by 4 -inch minimum members 4 feet (1219 mm) long.  
7. A 2 -inch by 4 -inch minimum curb shall be set on edge 
along the outside ed ge of the deck.  
1201.6.6 Repair, maintenance and removal. Pedestrian 
protection required by Section 1201.6 shall be maintained in 
place and kept in good order for the entire length of time 
pedestrians may be endangered. The owner or the owner's 
agent, upon  the completion of the construction activity, shall 
immediately remove walkways, debris, and other obstructions 
and leave such public property in as good a condition as it was 
before such work was commenced.  
TABLE 1201.6  
PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS  
HEIGHT OF 
CONSTRUCTION  DISTANCE OF 
CONSTRUCTION 
TO LOT LINE  TYPE OF 
PROTECTION 
REQUIRED  
8 feet or less  Less than 5 feet  Construction 
railings  
5 feet or more  None  
More than 8 feet  Less than 5 feet  Barrier and 
covered 
walkway  
5 feet or more, but 
not more than  1/4 the 
height of 
construction  Barrier and 
covered 
walkway  
5 feet or more, but 
between 1/4 and 1/2 
the height of 
construction  Barrier  
5 feet or more, but 
exceeding 1/2 the 
height of 
construction  None  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1934  1201.6.7 Adjacent to excavations. Every excavation  on a 
site located 5 feet (1524 mm) or less from the street lot line 
shall be enclosed with a barrier not less than 6 feet (1829 
mm) high. Where located more than 5 feet (1524 mm) 
from the street lot line, a barrier shall be erected when 
required by the co de official. Barriers shall be of adequate 
strength to resist wind pressure as specified in Chapter 16 
of the International Building Code.  
1201.7 Facilities required. Sanitary facilities shall be 
provided during construction or demolition activities in 
accordance with the International Plumbing Code.  
F. Change Section 1202 to Protection of Adjoining 
Properties.  
G. Change Section 1202.1 to the IEBC to read:  
1202.1 Protection required. Adjoining public and private 
property shall be protected from damage d uring 
construction and demolition work. Protection must be 
provided for footings, foundations, party walls, chimneys, 
skylights, and roofs. Provisions shall be made to control 
water runoff and erosion during construction or demolition 
activities. The perso n making or causing an excavation to 
be made shall provide written notice to the owners of 
adjoining buildings advising them that the excavation is to 
be made and that the adjoining buildings should be 
protected. This notification shall be delivered not le ss than 
10 days prior to the scheduled starting date of the 
excavation.  
H. Delete Sections 1202.2 through 1202.4 of the IEBC.  
I. Change Section 1203 Temporary Use of Streets, Alleys 
and Public Property.  
J. Change Sections 1203.1 through 1203.3 to the IEBC to 
read:  
1203.1 Storage and handling of materials. The temporary 
use of streets or public property for the storage or handling 
of materials or equipment required for construction or 
demolition and the protection provided to the public shall 
comply with the  provisions of the applicable governing 
authority and this chapter.  
1203.2 Obstructions. Construction materials and 
equipment shall not be placed or stored so as to obstruct 
access to fire hydrants, standpipes, fire or police alarm 
boxes, catch basins, or manholes nor shall such material or 
equipment be located within 20 feet (6.1 m) of a street 
intersection or placed so as to obstruct normal observations 
of traffic signals or to hinder the use of public transit 
loading platforms.  
1203.3 Utility fixtures. B uilding materials, fences, sheds or 
any obstruction of any kind shall not be placed to obstruct 
free approach to any fire hydrant, fire department 
connection, utility pole, manhole, fire alarm box, or catch basin or to interfere with the passage of water i n the gutter. 
Protection against damage shall be provided to such utility 
fixtures during the progress of the work, but sight of them 
shall not be obstructed.  
K. Delete Sections 1203.4 through 1203.12, including 
subsections, of the IEBC.  
L. Add Section 120 4 Fire Extinguishers.  
M. Change Section 1204.1, deleting subsections, and add 
Section 1204.2 to the IEBC to read:  
1204.1 Where required. All structures under construction, 
alteration, or demolition shall be provided with not less 
than one approved portable  fire extinguisher in accordance 
with Section 906 of the International Building Code  and 
sized for not less than ordinary hazard as follows:  
1. At each stairway on all floor levels where combustible 
materials have accumulated.  
2. In every storage and construction shed.  
3. Additional portable fire extinguishers shall be 
provided where special hazards exist including the 
storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids.  
1204.2 Fire hazards. The provisions of this code and of the 
International Fire Co de shall be strictly observed to 
safeguard against all fire hazards attendant upon 
construction operations.  
N. Change Section 1205 to Means of Egress.  
O. Change Sections 1205.1 and 1205.2 to the IEBC to read:  
1205.1 Stairways required. Where a building has  been 
constructed to a building height of 50 feet (15,240 mm) or 
four stories, or where an existing building exceeding 50 
feet (15,240 mm) in building height is altered, at least one 
temporary lighted stairway shall be provided unless one or 
more of the pe rmanent stairways are erected as the 
construction progresses.  
1205.2 Maintenance of means of egress. Required means 
of egress shall be maintained at all times during 
construction, demolition, remodeling or alterations, and 
additions to any building.  
Except ion: Approved temporary means of egress systems 
and facilities.  
P. Delete Sections 1205.3 through 1205.15 of the IEBC.  
Q. Change Section 1206 to Standpipe Systems.  
R. Change Sections 1206.1 through 1206.2 and add Section 
1206.3 to the IEBC to read:  
1206.1  Where required. In buildings required to have 
standpipes by Section 905.3.1 of the International Building 
Code, not less than one standpipe shall be provided for use 
during construction. Such standpipes shall be installed Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1935 prior to construction exceeding 4 0 feet (12 192 mm) in 
height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle 
access. Such standpipe shall be provided with fire 
department hose connections at accessible locations 
adjacent to usable stairways. Such standpipes shall be 
extended as constru ction progresses to within one floor of 
the highest point of construction having secured decking or 
flooring.  
1206.2 Buildings being demolished. Where a building or 
portion of a building is being demolished and a standpipe 
is existing within such a buildin g, such standpipe shall be 
maintained in an operable condition to be available for use 
by the fire department. Such standpipe shall be demolished 
with the building but shall not be demolished more than 
one floor below the floor being demolished.  
1206.3 Detailed requirements. Standpipes shall be installed 
in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 9 of the 
International Building Code.  
Exception: Standpipes shall be either temporary or 
permanent in nature and with or without a water supply, 
provi ded that such standpipes conform to the requirements 
of Section 905 of the International Building Code as to 
capacity, outlets and materials.  
S. Add Section 1207 Automatic Sprinkler System.  
T. Add Sections 1207.1 and 1207.2 to the IEBC to read:  
1207.1 Comp letion before occupancy. In portions of a 
building where an automatic sprinkler system is required 
by this code, it shall be unlawful to occupy those portions 
of the building until the automatic sprinkler system 
installation has been tested and approved, e xcept as 
provided in Section 110.3.  
1207.2 Operation of valves. Operation of sprinkler control 
valves shall be permitted only by properly authorized 
personnel and shall be accompanied by notification of duly 
designated parties. When the sprinkler protectio n is being 
regularly turned off and on to facilitate connection of 
newly completed segments, the sprinkler control valves 
shall be checked at the end of each work period to 
ascertain that protection is in service.  
U. Add Section 1208 Accessibility.  
V. Add  Section 1208.1 to the IEBC to read:  
1208.1 Construction sites. Structures, sites, and equipment 
directly associated with the actual process of construction, 
including scaffolding, bridging, material hoists, material 
storage, or construction trailers are n ot required to be 
accessible.  
W. Add Section 1209 Water Supply for Fire Protection.  X. Add Section 1209.1 to the IEBC to read:  
1209.1 When required. An approved water supply for fire 
protection, either temporary or permanent, shall be made 
available as soo n as combustible material arrives on the 
site. ]  
13VAC5 -63-439. Chapter 13  [ Relocated or moved 
buildings  Referenced standards  ]. 
[ A. Change the title of Chapter 13 of the IEBC to "Moved 
Buildings and Structures."  
B. Change Section 1301.1 of the IEBC to read:  
1301.1 Scope. This chapter provides requirements for 
moved buildings and structures.  
Reference d standards are listed in the following table : 
Standard 
reference 
number  Title  Referenced in 
code section 
number  
API 653 -09 Tank Inspection, 
Repair, Alteration 
and Reconstruction  1101.16  
ASCE/SEI 7 -
10 American Society of 
Civil Engineers 
Structural 
Engineering 
Institute  305.2.1, 
603.7.4, 
603.7.6  
ASCE/SEI 41 -
13 American Society of 
Civil Engineers 
Structural 
Engineering 
Institute  305.2, 
305.2.1, 
305.2.2, 
502.2.2.1, 
502.2.2.3, 
803.3  
ASHRAE 
62.1-2013  American Society of 
Heating, 
Refrigerating and 
Air Conditioning 
Engineers  603.9.1  
ASME 
A17.1/CSA 
B44-2013  American Society of 
Mechanical 
Engineers  404.4.2, 
604.3.1.2  
ASME A17.3 -
2008  American Society of 
Mechanical 
Engineers  604.3.1.2  
ASME A18.1 -
2008  American Society of 
Mechanical 
Engineers  404.4.3  
ASTM E 84 -
13A ASTM International  906.9  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1936  ASTM E 108 -
11 ASTM International  906.5  
ASTM F 2006 -
10 ASTM International  304.2  
ASTM F 2090 -
10 ASTM International  304.2  
ICC A117.1 -09 Accessible and 
Usable Buildings 
and Facilities  404.4.2, 
404.4.3, 
404.4.10  
IFC-15 International Fire 
Code  603.5.4.1  
NFPA 13 -13 Standard for the 
Installation of 
Sprinkler Systems  1101.12  
NFPA 13R -13 Standard for the 
Installation of 
Sprinkler Systems in 
Residential 
Occupancies up to 
and Including Four 
Stories in Height  603.5.2.5  
NFPA 70 -14 National Electrical 
Code  504.1.1, 
504.1.2, 
504.1.3, 
504.1.4, 
504.1.5, 
603.8.1, 
603.8.3.4, 
603.8.3.7, 
708.1, 708.2, 
708.3,  
NFPA 72 -13 National Fi re Alarm 
and Signaling Code  603.5.2.5, 
603.5.4  
NFPA 99 -15 Health Care 
Facilities Code  504.1.4  
NFPA 101 -15 Life Safety Code  603.6  
UL 723 -08 Standard for Test for 
Surface Burning 
Characteristics of 
Building Materials 
with Revisions 
Through September 
2010  906.9  
UL 790 -04 Standard Test 
Methods for Tests of 
Roof Coverings with 
Revisions through 
October 2008  906.7  TFI RMIP -09 Aboveground 
Storage Tanks 
Containing Liquid 
Fertilizer, 
Recommended 
Mechanical Integrity 
Practices  1101.16  ]  
13VAC5 -63-440. Chapter 14 [  Performance compliance 
methods  Compliance alternative – Change of occupancy  ].  
A. Change Section 1401.1 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.1 Scope.  [ The provisions of this chapter shall apply 
to the alteration, repair, addition, and change of occupancy 
of existing structures, including historic and moved 
structures, as referenced in Section 301.1.3.  ] The 
provisions of this chapter are intended to maintain or 
increase the current degree of public safety, health, and 
general welfare in existing buildings  [ or structures,  ] while 
permitting  [ repair, alteration, addition, and change  
changes  ] of occupancy without requiring full compliance 
with [ Chapters 5 through 12  Chapter 7  ], except where 
compliance with other provisions of this code is 
specifically requir ed in this chapter.  
[ Exception: The provisions of this chapter shall not apply 
to buildings with occupancies in Group H or I.  ]  
B. [ Change Section 1401.2 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.2 Applicability. Work involving rehabilitation, 
additions, alterations , or changes of occupancy shall be 
made to conform to the requirements of this chapter or the 
provisions of Chapters 5 through 13. The provisions in 
Sections 1401.2.1 through 1401.2.5 shall apply to existing 
occupancies that will continue to be, or are propo sed to be, 
in Groups A, B, E, F, I-2, M, R, S , and U. These provisions 
shall not apply to buildings with occupancies in Group H 
or I I-1, I-3, or I -4. 
Exception: The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to 
changes of occupancy involving Group I -2. ]  
B. [ C. Add an exception to Section 1401.2.1 of the IEBC to 
read:  
Exception: Plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems in 
buildings undergoing a change of occupancy shall be 
subject to any applicable requirements of Chapter 10.  ]  
C. Change Section 140 1.2.5 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.2.5 Accessibility requirements. All portions of the 
buildings proposed for change of occupancy and all 
alterations to existing buildings shall conform to the 
applicable accessibility provisions of Section 410.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1937 [ Change Sec tion 1401.1.1 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.1.1 Complete change of occupancy. Where an entire 
existing building undergoes a change of occupancy, the 
applicable provisions of this chapter for the new occupancy 
shall be used to determine compliance with this code.  
Exception: Plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems in 
buildings undergoing a change of occupancy shall be 
subject to any applicable requirements of Chapter 7.  
C. Change Section 1401.1.2 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.1.2 Partial change of occupancy. Where a portion of 
the building undergoes a change of occupancy and that 
portion is separated from the remainder of the building 
with fire barrier or horizontal assemblies having a fire -
resistance rating as required by Table 508.4 of the VCC or 
Section R31 7 of the International Residential Code for the 
separate occupancies, or with approved compliance 
alternatives, the portion changed shall be made to conform 
to the provisions of this chapter.  
Where a portion of the building undergoes a change of 
occupancy  and that portion is not separated from the 
remainder of the building with fire barriers or horizontal 
assemblies having a fire -resistance rating as required by 
Table 508.4 of the VCC or Section R317 of the 
International Residential Code for the separate 
occupancies, or with approved compliance alternatives, the 
provisions of this chapter which apply to each occupancy 
shall apply to the entire building. Where there are 
conflicting provisions, those requirements that are the most 
restrictive shall apply to t he entire building or structure.  
D. Change Section 1401.2 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.2 Accessibility requirements. All portions of the 
buildings proposed for change of occupancy to existing 
buildings or structures shall conform to the applicable 
accessibili ty provisions of Chapter 4.  
E. Change Section 1401.3 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.3 Acceptance. For changes of occupancy to existing 
buildings that are evaluated in accordance with this 
chapter, compliance with this chapter shall be accepted by 
the code offi cial.  
F. Change Section 1401.3.1 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.3.1 Compliance with flood hazard provisions. In 
flood hazard areas, buildings or structures that are 
evaluated in accordance with this chapter shall comply 
with Section 1612 of the VCC or Section R322 of the 
International Residential Code, as applicable if the work 
covered by this chapter constitutes substantial 
improvement.  G. Change Section 1401.4 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.4 Investigation and evaluation. For proposed work 
covered by this chapter,  the building owner shall cause the 
existing building to be investigated and evaluated in 
accordance with the provisions of Sections 1401.4 through 
1401.9.  
H. Change Section 1401.4.1 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.4.1 Structural analysis. The owner shall have a  
structural analysis of the existing building made to 
determine adequacy of structural systems for the proposed 
alteration, addition, or change of occupancy. The analysis 
shall demonstrate that the building with the work 
completed is capable of resisting t he loads specified in 
Chapter 16 of the VCC.  
I. Change Section 1401.4.2 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.4.2 Submittal. The results of the investigation and 
evaluation as required in Section 1401.4 along with 
proposed compliance alternatives shall be submitted to the 
code official.  
J. Change Section 1401.4.3 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.4.3 Determination o f compliance. The code official 
shall determine whether the existing building with the 
proposed change of occupancy complies with the 
provisions of this section in accordance with the evaluation 
process in Sections 1401.5 through 1401.9.  
K. Change Section  1401.5 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.5 Evaluation. The evaluation shall be comprised of 
three categories: fire safety, means of egress, and general 
safety, as defined in Sections 1401.5.1 through 1401.5.3.  
L. Change Section 1401.5.1 of the IEBC to read:  
1401 .5.1 Fire safety. Included within the fire safety 
category are the structural fire resistance, automatic fire 
detection, fire alarm, automatic sprinkler system, and fire 
suppression system features of the facility.  
M. Change Section 1401.5.2 of the IEBC t o read:  
1401.5.2 Means of egress. Included within the means of 
egress category are the configuration, characteristics, and 
support features for means of egress in the facility.  
N. Change Section 1401.5.3 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.5.3 General safety. Inclu ded within the general safety 
category are the fire safety parameters and the means -of-
egress parameters.  
O. Change Section 1401.6 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.6 Evaluation process. The evaluation process 
specified in this code shall be followed in its entir ety to 
evaluate existing buildings. Table 1401.7 shall be utilized 
for tabulating the results of the evaluation. References to Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1938  other sections of this code indicate that compliance with 
those sections is required in order to gain credit in the 
evaluation ou tlined in this code. In applying this section to 
a building with mixed occupancies, where the separation 
between the mixed occupancies does not qualify for any 
category indicated in Section 1401.6.16, the score for each 
occupancy shall be determined, and t he lower score 
determined for each section of the evaluation process shall 
apply to the entire building.  
Where the separation between the mixed occupancies 
qualifies for any category indicated in Section 1401.6.16, 
the score for each occupancy shall apply  to each portion, or 
smoke compartment of the building based on the 
occupancy of the space.  
P. Change Section 1401.6.1 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.6.1 Building height and number of stories. The value 
for building height and number of stories shall be the le sser 
value determined by the formula in Section 1401.6.1.1. 
Section 504 of the International Building Code shall be 
used to determine the allowable height and number of 
stories of the building. Subtract the actual building height 
from the allowable height and divide by 12 -1/2 feet (3810 
mm). Enter the height value and its sign (positive or 
negative) in Table 1401.7 under Safety Parameter 
1401.6.1, Building Height, for fire safety, means of egress, 
and general safety. The maximum score for a building shall 
be 10.  
Q. Change Section 1401.6.2 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.6.2 Building area. The value for building area shall 
be determined by the formula in Section 1401.6.2.2. 
Section 506 of the VCC and the formula in Section 
1401.6.2.1 shall be used to determine the allowable area of 
the building. Subtract the actual building area from the 
allowable area and divide by 1,200 square feet (112 m2). 
Enter the area value and its sign (positive or negative) in 
Table 1401.7 under Safety Parameter 1401.6.2, Building 
Area, for  fire safety, means of egress and general safety. In 
determining the area value, the maximum permitted 
positive value for area is 50% of the fire safety score as 
listed in Table 1401.8, Mandatory Safety Scores.  
R. Change Section 1401.6.4 of the IEBC to rea d: 
1401.6.4 Tenant and dwelling unit separations. Evaluate 
the fire -resistance rating of floors and walls separating 
tenants, including dwelling units, and not evaluated under 
Sections 1401.6.3 and 1401.6.5.  
S. Change Section 1401.6.7 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.6.7 HVAC systems. Evaluate the ability of the 
HVAC system to resist the movement of smoke and fire 
beyond the point of origin. Under the categories in Section 
1401.6.7.1, determine the appropriate value and enter that 
value into Table 1401.7 under Saf ety Parameter 1401.6.7, HVAC Systems, for fire safety, means of egress, and 
general safety.  
T. Change Section 1401.6.8 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.6.8 Automatic fire detection. Evaluate the smoke 
detection capability based on the location and operation of 
automatic fire detectors in accordance with Section 907 of 
the VCC and the International Mechanical Code. Under the 
categories and occupancies in Table 1401.6.8, determine 
the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 
1401.7 under Safety Parameter 1 401.6.8, Automatic Fire 
Detection, for fire safety, means of egress, and general 
safety.  
U. Change Section 1401.6.8.1 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.6.8.1 Categories. The categories for automatic fire 
detection are:  
1. Category a - None.  
2. Category b - Existing smoke detectors in HVAC 
systems.  
3. Category c - Smoke detectors in HVAC systems. The 
detectors are installed in accordance with the 
requirements for new buildings in the International 
Mechanical Code.  
4. Category d - Smoke detectors throughout all floor 
areas other than individual sleeping units, tenant spaces, 
and dwelling units.  
5. Category e - Smoke detectors installed throughout the 
floor area.  
6. Category f - Smoke detectors in corridors only.  
V. Change Section 1401.6.14 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.6.14 Elevator control. Evaluate the passenger 
elevator equipment and controls that are available to the 
fire department to reach all occupied floors. Emergency 
recall and in -car operation of elevators s hall be provided in 
accordance with the building code under which the 
building or the affected portion thereof was constructed or 
previously approved. Under the categories and occupancies 
in Table 1401.5.14, determine the appropriate value and 
enter that v alue into Table 1401.7 under Safety Parameter 
1401.5.14, Elevator Control, for fire safety, means of 
egress and general safety. The values shall be zero for a 
single -story building.  
W. Change Section 1401.6.14.1 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.6.14.1 Categories.  The categories for elevator 
controls are:  
1. Category a - No elevator.  
2. Category b - Any elevator without Phase I emergency 
recall operation and Phase II emergency in -car operation.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1939 3. Category c - All elevators with Phase I emergency 
recall operatio n and Phase II emergency in -car operation 
as required by the building code under which the 
building or the affected portion thereof was constructed 
or previously approved.  
4. Category d - All meet Category c or Category b where 
permitted to be without Phas e I emergency recall 
operation and Phase II emergency in -car operation, and 
there is at least one elevator that complies with new 
construction requirements serves all occupied floors.  
X. Change Section 1401.6.16 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.6.16 Mixed occupan cies. Where a building has two 
or more occupancies that are not in the same occupancy 
classification, the separation between the mixed 
occupancies shall be evaluated in accordance with this 
section. Where there is no separation between the mixed 
occupancie s or the separation between mixed occupancies 
does not qualify for any of the categories indicated in 
Section 1401.6.16.1, the building shall be evaluated as 
indicated in Section 1401.6, and the value for mixed 
occupancies shall be zero. Under the categori es and 
occupancies in Table 1401.6.16, determine the appropriate 
value and enter that value into Table 1401.7 under Safety 
Parameter 1401.6.16, Mixed Occupancies, for fire safety 
and general safety. For buildings without mixed 
occupancies, the value shall be zero.  
Y. Change Section 1401.6.17 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.6.17 Automatic sprinklers. Evaluate the ability to 
suppress a fire based on the installation of an automatic 
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of 
the VCC. "Required sprinkle rs" shall be based on the 
requirements of this code. Under the categories and 
occupancies in Table 1401.6.17, determine the appropriate 
value and enter that value into Table 1401.7 under Safety 
Parameter 1401.6.17, Automatic Sprinklers, for fire safety, 
means of egress divided by two, and general safety. High -
rise buildings defined in Chapter 2 of the VCC that 
undergo a change of occupancy to Group R shall be 
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in 
accordance with Section 403 of the VCC an d Chapter 9 of 
the VCC.  
Z. Change Section 1401.6.20 of the IEBC to read:  
1401.6.20 Smoke compartmentation. Evaluate the smoke 
compartments for compliance with Section 407.5 of the 
VCC. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 
1401.6.20, determine the appropriate smoke 
compartmentation value (SCV) and enter that value into 
Table 1401.7 under Safety Parameter 1401.6.20, Smoke 
Compartmentation, for fire safety, means of egress and 
general safety.  ]  13VAC5 -63-441. Chapter 15 Construction safeguards.  
Delet e Chapter 15 of the IEBC in its entirety.  
Change the referenced standards in  Delete  Chapter 16 of the 
IEBC [  as follows (standards not shown remain the same):  in 
its entirety.  
Standard 
reference 
number  Title  Referenced in 
code section 
number  
API 653 -09 Tank Inspection, 
Repair, Alteration 
and Reconstruction  1701.16   
TFI RMIP -09 Aboveground 
Storage Tanks 
Containing Liquid 
Fertilizer, 
Recommended 
Mechanical Integrity 
Practices  1701.16  ]  
Part III  
Maintenance  
13VAC5 -63-450. Chapter 1 Administration; Section 101 
General.  
A. Section 101.1 Short title. The Virginia Uniform 
Statewide Building Code, Part III, Maintenance, may be cited 
as the "Virginia Maintenance Code," or as the "VMC."  
B. Section 101.2 Incorporat ion by reference. Chapters 2 - 8 
of the 2012  2015  International Property Maintenance Code, 
published by the International Code Council, Inc., are adopted 
and incorporated by reference to be an enforceable part of the 
VMC. The term "IPMC" means the 2012  2015 International 
Property Maintenance Code, published by the International 
Code Council, Inc. Any codes and standards referenced in the 
IPMC are also considered to be part of the incorporation by 
reference, except that such codes and standards are used only  
to the prescribed extent of each such reference.  
C. Section 101.3 Numbering system. A dual numbering 
system is used in the VMC to correlate the numbering system 
of the Virginia Administrative Code with the numbering 
system of the IPMC. IPMC numbering sys tem designations 
are provided in the catchlines of the Virginia Administrative 
Code sections and cross references between sections or 
chapters of the Virginia Maintenance Code use only the 
IPMC numbering system designations. The term "chapter" is 
used in t he context of the numbering system of the IPMC and 
may mean a chapter in the VMC, a chapter in the IPMC or a 
chapter in a referenced code or standard, depending on the 
context of the use of the term. The term "chapter" is not used 
to designate a chapter of  the Virginia Administrative Code, 
unless clearly indicated.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1940  D. Section 101.4 Arrangement of code provisions. The 
VMC is comprised of the combination of (i) the provisions of 
Chapter 1, Administration, which are established herein, (ii) 
Chapters 2 - 8 of the IPMC, which are incorporated by 
reference in Section 101.2, and (iii) the changes to the text of 
the incorporated chapters of the IPMC which are specifically 
identified. The terminology "changes to the text of the 
incorporated chapters of the IPMC whic h are specifically 
identified" shall also be referred to as the "state amendments 
to the IPMC." Such state amendments to the IPMC are set out 
using corresponding chapter and section numbers of the 
IPMC numbering system. In addition, since Chapter 1 of the 
IPMC is not incorporated as part of the VMC, any reference 
to a provision of Chapter 1 of the IPMC in the provisions of 
Chapters 2 - 8 of the IPMC is generally invalid. However, 
where the purpose of such a reference would clearly 
correspond to a provision of Chapter 1 established herein, 
then the reference may be construed to be a valid reference to 
such corresponding Chapter 1 provision.  
E. Section 101.5 Use of terminology and notes. The term 
"this code," or "the code," where used in the provisions of 
Chapter 1, in Chapters 2 - 8 of the IPMC, or in the state 
amendments to the IPMC, means the VMC, unless the 
context clearly indicates otherwise. The term "this code," or 
"the code," where used in a code or standard referenced in the 
IPMC, means that code or s tandard, unless the context clearly 
indicates otherwise. The term "USBC" where used in this 
code means the VCC unless the context clearly indicates 
otherwise. In addition, the use of notes in Chapter 1 is to 
provide information only and shall not be constr ued as 
changing the meaning of any code provision. Notes in the 
IPMC, in the codes and standards referenced in the IPMC, 
and in the state amendments to the IPMC, may modify the 
content of a related provision and shall be considered to be a 
valid part of th e provision, unless the context clearly indicates 
otherwise.  
F. Section 101.6 Order of precedence. The provisions of this 
code shall be used as follows:  
1. The provisions of Chapter 1 of this code supersede any 
provisions of Chapters 2 - 8 of the IPMC th at address the 
same subject matter and impose differing requirements.  
2. The provisions of Chapter 1 of this code supersede any 
provisions of the codes and standards referenced in the 
IPMC that address the same subject matter and impose 
differing requirem ents.  
3. The state amendments to the IPMC supersede any 
provisions of Chapters 2 - 8 of the IPMC that address the 
same subject matter and impose differing requirements.  
4. The state amendments to the IPMC supersede any 
provisions of the codes and standar ds referenced in the 
IPMC that address the same subject matter and impose 
differing requirements.  5. The provisions of Chapters 2 - 8 of the IPMC supersede 
any provisions of the codes and standards referenced in the 
IPMC that address the same subject matter and impose 
differing requirements.  
G. Section 101.7 Administrative provisions. The provisions 
of Chapter 1 establish administrative requirements, which 
include but are not limited to provisions relating to the scope 
of the code, enforcement, fees, permits, inspections and 
disputes. Any provisions of Chapters 2 - 8 of the IPMC or 
any provisions of th e codes and standards referenced in the 
IPMC which address the same subject matter to a lesser or 
greater extent are deleted and replaced by the provisions of 
Chapter 1. Further, any administrative requirements contained 
in the state amendments to the IPMC  shall be given the same 
precedence as the provisions of Chapter 1. Notwithstanding 
the above, where administrative requirements of Chapters 2 - 
8 of the IPMC or of the codes and standards referenced in the 
IPMC are specifically identified as valid adminis trative 
requirements in Chapter 1 of this code or in the state 
amendments to the IPMC, then such requirements are not 
deleted and replaced.  
Note: The purpose of this provision is to eliminate overlap, 
conflicts and duplication by providing a single standa rd for 
administrative, procedural and enforcement requirements of 
this code.  
H. Section 101.8 Definitions. The definitions of terms used 
in this code are contained in Chapter 2 along with specific 
provisions addressing the use of definitions. Terms may be  
defined in other chapters or provisions of the code and such 
definitions are also valid.  
Note: The order of precedence outlined in Section 101.6 
may be determinative in establishing how to apply the 
definitions in the IPMC and in the referenced codes and  
standards.  
13VAC5 -63-470. Section 103 Application of code.  
A. Section 103.1 General. This code prescribes regulations 
for the maintenance of all existing buildings and structures 
and associated equipment, including regulations for unsafe 
buildings and s tructures.  
B. Section 103.2 Maintenance requirements. Buildings and, 
structures and systems  shall be maintained and kept in good 
repair in accordance with the requirements of this code and 
when applicable in accordance with the USBC under which 
such build ing or structure was constructed. No provision of 
this code shall require alterations to be made to an existing 
building or structure or to equipment unless conditions are 
present which meet the definition of an unsafe structure or a 
structure unfit for hu man occupancy.  
C. 103.2.1 Maintenance of nonrequired components and 
systems. Nonrequired components and systems may be Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1941 discontinued in use provided that no hazard results from such 
discontinuance of use.  
C. [ D. 103.2.1 Maintenance of nonrequired fire protection 
systems. Nonrequired fire protection systems shall be 
maintained to function as originally installed. If any such 
systems are to be reduced in function or discontinued, 
approval shall be obtained from the building official in 
accordance with Sec tion 103.8.1 of the VCC.   
D. 103.2.2 Responsibility. The owner of a structure shall 
provide and maintain all buildings, structures, systems, 
facilities and associated equipment in compliance with this 
code unless it is specifically expressed or implied tha t it is the 
responsibility of the tenant or occupant.  ]  
E. Section 103.3 Continued approval. Notwithstanding any 
provision of this code to the contrary, alterations shall not be 
required to be made to existing buildings or structures which 
are occupied in  accordance with a certificate of occupancy 
issued under any edition of the USBC.  
E. F. Section 103.4 Rental Inspections. In accordance with § 
36-105.1:1 of the Code of Virginia, these provisions are 
applicable to rental inspection programs. For purposes of this 
section:  
"Dwelling unit" means a building or structure or part thereof 
that is used for a home or residence by one or more persons 
who maintain a household.  
"Owner" means the person shown on the current real estate 
assessment books or current rea l estate assessment records.  
"Residential rental dwelling unit" means a dwelling unit that 
is leased or rented to one or more tenants. However, a 
dwelling unit occupied in part by the owner thereof shall not 
be construed to be a residential rental dwellin g unit unless a 
tenant occupies a part of the dwelling unit that has its own 
cooking and sleeping areas, and a bathroom, unless otherwise 
provided in the zoning ordinance by the local governing 
body.  
The local governing body may adopt an ordinance to insp ect 
residential rental dwelling units for compliance with this code 
and to promote safe, decent and sanitary housing for its 
citizens, in accordance with the following:  
1. Except as provided for in subdivision 3 of this 
subsection, the dwelling units shal l be located in a rental 
inspection district established by the local governing body 
in accordance with this section; and  
2. The rental inspection district is based upon a finding by 
the local governing body that (i) there is a need to protect 
the public health, safety and welfare of the occupants of 
dwelling units inside the designated rental inspection 
district; (ii) the residential rental dwelling units within the 
designated rental inspection district are either (a) blighted 
or in the process of deterio rating or (b) the residential rental dwelling units are in the need of inspection by the 
building department to prevent deterioration, taking into 
account the number, age and condition of residential 
dwelling rental units inside the proposed rental inspect ion 
district; and (iii) the inspection of residential rental 
dwelling units inside the proposed rental inspection district 
is necessary to maintain safe, decent and sanitary living 
conditions for tenants and other residents living in the 
proposed rental in spection district. Nothing in this section 
shall be construed to authorize one or more locality -wide 
rental inspection districts and a local governing body shall 
limit the boundaries of the proposed rental inspection 
districts to such areas of the locality  that meet the criteria 
set out in this subsection; or  
3. An individual residential rental dwelling unit outside of 
a designated rental inspection district is made subject to the 
rental inspection ordinance based upon a separate finding 
for each individua l dwelling unit by the local governing 
body that (i) there is a need to protect the public health, 
welfare and safety of the occupants of that individual 
dwelling unit; (ii) the individual dwelling unit is either (a) 
blighted or (b) in the process of deter iorating; or (iii) there 
is evidence of violations of this code that affect the safe, 
decent and sanitary living conditions for tenants living in 
such individual dwelling unit.  
For purposes of this section, the local governing body may 
designate a local g overnment agency other than the building 
department to perform all or part of the duties contained in 
the enforcement authority granted to the building department 
by this section.  
Before adopting a rental inspection ordinance and 
establishing a rental ins pection district or an amendment to 
either, the governing body of the locality shall hold a public 
hearing on the proposed ordinance. Notice of the hearing 
shall be published once a week for two successive weeks in a 
newspaper published or having general c irculation in the 
locality.  
Upon adoption by the local governing body of a rental 
inspection ordinance, the building department shall make 
reasonable efforts to notify owners of residential rental 
dwelling units in the designated rental inspection distric t, or 
their designated managing agents, and to any individual 
dwelling units subject to the rental inspection ordinance, not 
located in a rental inspection district, of the adoption of such 
ordinance, and provide information and an explanation of the 
renta l inspection ordinance and the responsibilities of the 
owner thereunder.  
The rental inspection ordinance may include a provision that 
requires the owners of dwelling units in a rental inspection 
district to notify the building department in writing if the  
dwelling unit of the owner is used for residential rental 
purposes. The building department may develop a form for 
such purposes. The rental inspection ordinance shall not Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1942  include a registration requirement or a fee of any kind 
associated with the written  notification pursuant to this 
subdivision. A rental inspection ordinance may not require 
that the written notification from the owner of a dwelling unit 
subject to a rental inspection ordinance be provided to the 
building department in less than 60 days a fter the adoption of 
a rental inspection ordinance. However, there shall be no 
penalty for the failure of an owner of a residential rental 
dwelling unit to comply with the provisions of this 
subsection, unless and until the building department provides 
personal or written notice to the property owner, as provided 
in this section. In any event, the sole penalty for the willful 
failure of an owner of a dwelling unit who is using the 
dwelling unit for residential rental purposes to comply with 
the written noti fication requirement shall be a civil penalty of 
up to $50. For purposes of this subsection, notice sent by 
regular first -class mail to the last known address of the owner 
as shown on the current real estate tax assessment books or 
current real estate tax assessment records shall be deemed 
compliance with this requirement.  
Upon establishment of a rental inspection district in 
accordance with this section, the building department may, in 
conjunction with the written notifications as provided for 
above, proc eed to inspect dwelling units in the designated 
rental inspection district to determine if the dwelling units are 
being used as a residential rental property and for compliance 
with the provisions of this code that affect the safe, decent 
and sanitary livi ng conditions for the tenants of such property.  
If a multifamily development has more than 10 dwelling 
units, in the initial and periodic inspections, the building 
department shall inspect only a sampling of dwelling units, of 
not less than two and not mo re than 10% of the dwelling 
units, of a multifamily development, that includes all of the 
multifamily buildings that are part of that multifamily 
development. In no event, however, shall the building 
department charge a fee authorized by this section for 
inspection of more than 10 dwelling units. If the building 
department determines upon inspection of the sampling of 
dwelling units that there are violations of this code that affect 
the safe, decent and sanitary living conditions for the tenants 
of such mul tifamily development, the building department 
may inspect as many dwelling units as necessary to enforce 
these provisions, in which case, the fee shall be based upon a 
charge per dwelling unit inspected, as otherwise provided in 
the fee schedule establishe d pursuant to this section.  
Upon the initial or periodic inspection of a residential rental 
dwelling unit subject to a rental inspection ordinance, the 
building department has the authority under these provisions 
to require the owner of the dwelling unit to submit to such 
follow -up inspections of the dwelling unit as the building 
department deems necessary, until such time as the dwelling 
unit is brought into compliance with the provisions of this 
code that affect the safe, decent and sanitary living condi tions 
for the tenants.  Except as provided for above, following the initial 
inspection of a residential rental dwelling unit subject to a 
rental inspection ordinance, the building department may 
inspect any residential rental dwelling unit in a rental 
inspection district, that is not otherwise exempted in 
accordance with this section, no more than once each 
calendar year.  
Upon the initial or periodic inspection of a residential rental 
dwelling unit subject to a rental inspection ordinance for 
compliance with these provisions, provided that there are no 
violations of this code that affect the safe, decent and sanitary 
living  conditions for the tenants of such residential rental 
dwelling unit, the building department shall provide, to the 
owner of such residential rental dwelling unit, an exemption 
from the rental inspection ordinance for a minimum of four 
years. Upon the sale  of a residential rental dwelling unit, the 
building department may perform a periodic inspection as 
provided above, subsequent to such sale. If a residential rental 
dwelling unit has been issued a certificate of occupancy 
within the last four years, an ex emption shall be granted for a 
minimum period of four years from the date of the issuance of 
the certificate of occupancy by the building department. If the 
residential rental dwelling unit becomes in violation of this 
code during the exemption period, the  building department 
may revoke the exemption previously granted under this 
section.  
A local governing body may establish a fee schedule for 
enforcement of these provisions, which includes a per 
dwelling unit fee for the initial inspections, follow -up 
inspections and periodic inspections under this section.  
The provisions of this section shall not in any way alter the 
rights and obligations of landlords and tenants pursuant to the 
applicable provisions of Chapter 13 (§ 55 -217 et seq.) or 
Chapter 13.2 (§ 5 5-248.2 et seq.) of Title 55 of the Code of 
Virginia.  
The provisions of this section shall not alter the duties or 
responsibilities of the local building department under § 36 -
105 of the Code of Virginia to enforce the USBC.  
Unless otherwise provided for  in § 36 -105.1:1 of the Code 
of Virginia, penalties for violation of this section shall be the 
same as the penalties provided for violations of other sections 
of the USBC.  
13VAC5 -63-480. Section 104 Enforcement, generally.  
A. Section 104.1 Scope of enfor cement. This section 
establishes the requirements for enforcement of this code in 
accordance with subdivision C 1 of  § 36-105 of the Code of 
Virginia. The local governing body may also inspect and 
enforce the provisions of the USBC for existing buildings a nd 
structures, whether occupied or not. Such inspection and 
enforcement shall be carried out by an agency or department 
designated by the local governing body.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1943 If In accordance with subdivision C 3 of § 36 -105 of the 
Code of Virginia, if  the local buildin g department receives a 
complaint that a violation of this code exists that is an 
immediate and imminent threat to the health or safety of the 
owner, tenant, or occupants of any building or structure, or 
the owner, occupant, or tenant of any nearby buildin g or 
structure, and the owner, occupant, or tenant of the building 
or structure that is the subject of the complaint has refused to 
allow the code official or his agent to have access to the 
subject building or structure, the code official or his agent 
may present sworn testimony to  make an affidavit under oath 
before  a magistrate or a court of competent jurisdiction and 
request that the magistrate or court grant the code official or 
his agent an inspection warrant to enable the code official or 
his agent t o enter the subject building or structure for the 
purpose of determining whether violations of this code exist. 
After issuing a warrant under this section, the magistrate or 
judge shall file the affidavit in a manner prescribed by § 19.2 -
54 of the Code of Virginia. After executing the warrant, the 
code official or his agents shall return the warrant to the clerk 
of the circuit court of the city or county wherein the 
inspection was made.  The code official or his agent shall 
make a reasonable effort to obtain  consent from the owner, 
occupant, or tenant of the subject building or structure prior to 
seeking the issuance of an inspection warrant under this 
section.  
Note: Generally, official action must be taken by the local 
government to enforce the VMC. Consult ation with the legal 
counsel of the jurisdiction when initiating or changing such 
action is advised.  
B. Section 104.1.1 Transfer of ownership. In accordance 
with subdivision C 4 of  § 36-105 of the Code of Virginia, if 
the local building department has ini tiated an enforcement 
action against the owner of a building or structure and such 
owner subsequently transfers the ownership of the building or 
structure to an entity in which the owner holds an ownership 
interest greater than 50%, the pending enforcement  action 
shall continue to be enforced against the owner.  
C. Section 104.2 Fees. In accordance with subdivision C 7 
of § 36 -105 of the Code of Virginia, fees may be levied by 
the local governing body in order to defray the cost of 
enforcement and appeals. For the purposes of this section, 
"defray the cost" may include the fair and reasonable costs 
incurred for such enforcement during normal business hours, 
but shall not include overtime costs unless conducted outside 
of the normal working hours established by the locality. A 
schedule of such costs shall be adopted by the local governing 
body in a local ordinance. A locality shall not charge 
overtime rate for inspections conducted during the normal 
business hours established by the locality. Nothing in this 
provision shall be construed to prohibit a private entity from 
conducting such inspections, provided the private entity has 
been approved to perform such inspections in accordance 
with the written policy of the code official for the locality.  D. Section 104 .3 State buildings. In accordance with § 36 -
98.1 of the Code of Virginia, this code shall be applicable to 
state-owned buildings and structures. Acting through the 
Division of Engineering and Buildings, the Department of 
General Services shall function as the building official for 
state-owned buildings.  
E. Section 104.3.1 Certification of state enforcement 
personnel. State enforcement personnel shall comply with the 
applicable requirements of Sections 104.4.2 through 104.4.4  
and 104.4.3  for certification , periodic maintenance training, 
and continuing education .  
Note: Continuing education and periodic training 
requirements for DHCD certifications are set out in the VCS.  
F. Section 104.4 Local enforcing agency. In jurisdictions 
enforcing this code, the local  governing body shall designate 
the agency within the local government responsible for such 
enforcement and appoint a code official. The local governing 
body may also utilize technical assistants to assist the code 
official in the enforcement of this code.  A permanently 
appointed code official shall not be removed from office 
except for cause after having been afforded a full opportunity 
to be heard on specific and relevant charges by and before the 
appointing authority. DHCD shall be notified by the 
appoin ting authority within 30 days of the appointment or 
release of a permanent or acting code official and within 60 
days after retaining or terminating a technical assistant.  
Note: Code officials and technical assistants are subject to 
sanctions in accordanc e with the VCS.  
G. Section 104.4.1 Qualifications of code official and 
technical assistants. The code official shall have at least five 
years of building experience as a licensed professional 
engineer or architect, building, fire or trade inspector, 
contr actor, housing inspector or superintendent of building, 
fire or trade construction or at least five years of building 
experience after obtaining a degree in architecture or 
engineering, with at least three years in responsible charge of 
work. Any combinati on of education and experience that 
would confer equivalent knowledge and ability shall be 
deemed to satisfy this requirement. The code official shall 
have general knowledge of sound engineering practice in 
respect to the design and construction of structu res, the basic 
principles of fire prevention, the accepted requirements for 
means of egress and the installation of elevators and other 
service equipment necessary for the health, safety and general 
welfare of the occupants and the public. The local govern ing 
body may establish additional qualification requirements.  
A technical assistant shall have at least three years of 
experience and general knowledge in at least one of the 
following areas: building construction, building, fire or 
housing inspections, p lumbing, electrical or mechanical 
trades, fire protection, elevators or property maintenance 
work. Any combination of education and experience which Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1944  would confer equivalent knowledge and ability shall be 
deemed to satisfy this requirement. The locality may  establish 
additional certification requirements.  
H. Section 104.4.2 Certification of code official and 
technical assistants. An acting or permanent code official 
shall be certified as a code official in accordance with the 
VCS within one year after being  appointed as acting or 
permanent code official. A technical assistant shall be 
certified in the appropriate subject area within 18 months 
after becoming a technical assistant. When required by a 
locality to have two or more certifications, a technical 
assistant shall obtain the additional certifications within three 
years from the date of such requirement.  
Exception: A code official or technical assistant in place 
prior to April 1, 1995, shall not be required to meet the 
certification requirements in this  section while continuing to 
serve in the same capacity in the same locality.  
I. Section 104.4.3 Noncertified code official. Except for a 
code official exempt from certification under the exception to 
Section 104.4.2, any acting or permanent code official  who is 
not certified as a code official in accordance with the VCS 
shall attend the core module of the Virginia Building Code 
Academy or an equivalent course in an individual or regional 
code academy accredited by DHCD within 180 days of 
appointment. This  requirement is in addition to meeting the 
certification requirement in Section 104.4.2.  
Note: Continuing education and periodic training 
requirements for DHCD certifications are set out in the VCS.  
J. Section 104.4.4 Requirements for periodic maintenance  
training and education. Code officials and technical assistants 
shall attend periodic maintenance training as designated by 
DHCD. In addition to the periodic maintenance training 
required above, code officials and technical assistants shall 
attend 16 hour s of continuing education every two years as 
approved by DHCD. If a code official or technical assistant 
possesses more than one BHCD certificate, the 16 hours shall 
satisfy the continuing education requirement for all BHCD 
certificates.   
K. Section [  104.4.5 104.4.4  ] Conflict of interest. The 
standards of conduct for code officials and technical 
assistants shall be in accordance with the provisions of the 
State and Local Government Conflict of Interests Act, 
Chapter 31 (§ 2.2 -3100 et seq.) of Title 2.2 of  the Code of 
Virginia.  
L. K. Section [  104.4.6  104.4.5  ] Records. The local 
enforcing agency shall retain a record of applications 
received, permits, certificates, notices and orders issued, fees 
collected and reports of inspections in accordance with The  
Library of Virginia's General Schedule Number Six.  
M. L. Section 104.5 Powers and duties, generally. The code 
official shall enforce this code as set out herein and as interpreted by the State Review Board and shall issue all 
necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with the 
code.  
N. M. Section 104.5.1 Delegation of authority. The code 
official may delegate powers and duties except where such 
authority is limited by the local government. When such 
delegations are made, the code official shall be responsible 
for assuring that they are carried out in accordance with the 
provisions of this code.  
O. N. Section 104.5.2 Issuance of modifications. Upon 
written application by an owner or an owner's agent, the code 
official may approve a modification of a ny provision of this 
code provided the spirit and intent of the code are observed 
and public health, welfare and safety are assured. The 
decision of the code official concerning a modification shall 
be made in writing and the application for a modification  and 
the decision of the code official concerning such modification 
shall be retained in the permanent records of the local 
enforcing agency.  
P. O. Section 104.5.2.1 Substantiation of modification. The 
code official may require or may consider a statement from a 
professional engineer, architect or other person competent in 
the subject area of the application as to the equivalency of the 
proposed modi fication.  
Q. P. Section 104.5.3 Inspections. The code official may 
inspect buildings or structures to determine compliance with 
this code and shall carry proper credentials when performing 
such inspections. The code official is authorized to engage 
such e xpert opinion as deemed necessary to report upon 
unusual, detailed, or complex technical issues in accordance 
with local policies.  
R. Q. Section 104.5.3.1 Observations. When, during an 
inspection, the code official or authorized representative 
observes an  apparent or actual violation of another law, 
ordinance, or code not within the official's authority to 
enforce, such official shall report the findings to the official 
having jurisdiction in order that such official may institute the 
necessary measures.  
S. R. Section 104.5.3.2 Approved inspection agencies and 
individuals. The code official may accept reports of 
inspections or tests from individuals or inspection agencies 
approved in accordance with the code official's written policy 
required by Section 10 4.5.3.3. The individual or inspection 
agency shall meet the qualifications and reliability 
requirements established by the written policy. Reports of 
inspections by approved individuals or agencies shall be in 
writing, shall indicate if compliance with the  applicable 
provisions of this code have been met, and shall be certified 
by the individual inspector or by the responsible officer when 
the report is from an agency. The code official shall review 
and approve the report unless there is cause to reject it.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1945 Failure to approve a report shall be in writing within five 
working days of receiving it, stating the reasons for rejection.  
T. S. Section 104.5.3.3 Third -party inspectors. Each code 
official charged with the enforcement of this code and who 
accepts thir d-party reports shall have a written policy 
establishing the minimum acceptable qualifications for third -
party inspectors. The policy shall include the format and time 
frame required for submission of reports, any prequalification 
or preapproval requiremen ts before conducting a third -party 
inspection, and any other requirements and procedures 
established by the code official.  
U. T. Section 104.5.3.4 Qualifications. In determining third -
party qualifications, the code official may consider such items 
as DHCD  inspector certification, other state or national 
certifications, state professional registrations, related 
experience, education, and any other factors that would 
demonstrate competency and reliability to conduct 
inspections.  
V. [ U. Section 104.5.4 Notices, reports and orders. Upon 
findings by the code official that violations of this code exist, 
the code official shall issue a correction notice or notice of 
violation to the owner or the person responsible for the 
maintenance of the structure. Work done to correct violations 
of this code subject to the permit, inspection and approval 
provisions of the VCC shall not be construed as authorization 
to extend the time limits established for compliance with this 
code.  ]  
W. [ V. Section 104 .5.4.1 Correction notice. The correction 
notice shall be a written notice of the defective conditions. 
The correction notice shall require correction of the violation 
or violations within a reasonable time unless an emergency 
condition exists as provided u nder the unsafe building 
provisions of Section 105. Upon request, the correction notice 
shall reference the code section that serves as the basis for the 
defects and shall state that such defects shall be corrected and 
reinspected in a reasonable time desi gnated by the code 
official.  ]  
X. [ W. Section 104.5.4.2 Notice of violation. If the code 
official determines there are violations of this code other than 
those for unsafe structures, unsafe equipment or structures 
unfit for human occupancy under Section 105, the code 
official may issue a notice of violation to be communicated 
promptly in writing to the owner or the person responsible for 
the maintenance or use of the building or structure in lieu of a 
correction notice as provided for in Section 104.5.4.1 . In 
addition, the code official shall issue a notice of violation for 
any uncorrected violation remaining from a correction notice 
established in Section 104.5.4.1. A notice of violation shall be 
issued by the code official before initiating legal proceed ings 
unless the conditions violate the unsafe building conditions of 
Section 105 and the provisions established therein are 
followed. The code official shall provide the section numbers 
to the owner for any code provision cited in the notice of violation. The notice shall require correction of the violation 
or violations within a reasonable time unless an emergency 
condition exists as provided under the building provisions of 
Section 105. The owner or person to whom the notice of 
violation has been issued s hall be responsible for contacting 
the code official within the time frame established for any 
reinspections to assure the violations have been corrected. 
The code official will be responsible for making such 
inspection and verifying the violations have be en corrected. 
In addition, the notice of violation shall indicate the right of 
appeal by referencing the appeals section of this code.  ]  
Y. [ X. Section 104.5.5 Coordination of inspections. The 
code official shall coordinate inspections and administrative  
orders with any other state or local agencies having related 
inspection authority and shall coordinate those inspections 
required by the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code 
(13VAC5 -51) for maintenance of fire protection devices, 
equipment and assembli es so that the owners and occupants 
will not be subjected to numerous inspections or conflicting 
orders.  
Note: The Fire Prevention Code requires the fire official to 
coordinate such inspections with the code official.  ]  
Z. [ Y. Section 104.5.6 Further ac tion when violation not 
corrected. If the responsible party has not complied with the 
notice of violation, the code official shall submit a written 
request to the legal counsel of the locality to institute the 
appropriate legal proceedings to restrain, cor rect or abate the 
violation or to require the removal or termination of the use of 
the building or structure involved. In cases where the locality 
so authorizes, the code official may issue or obtain a 
summons or warrant.  ]  
AA. [ Z. Section 104.5.7 Penalt ies and abatement. Penalties 
for violations of this code shall be as set out in § 36 -106 of 
the Code of Virginia. The successful prosecution of a 
violation of the code shall not preclude the institution of 
appropriate legal action to require correction or abatement of 
a violation.  
U. 104.5.4 Manufactured home park tenant notification. If a 
notice of violation is issued to a manufactured home park 
owner for violations of this code that jeopardize the health or 
safety of tenants of the park, a copy of the not ice shall be 
provided to each affected tenant of the manufactured home 
park. The terms, "manufactured home park" and "owner," as 
used in this section, shall be as defined in the Manufactured 
Home Lot Rental Act (Chapter 13.3 (§ 55 -248.41 et seq.) of 
Title 55 of the Code of Virginia).   
13VAC5 -63-485. Section 105 Violations.  
A. Section 105.1 Violation a misdemeanor; civil penalty. In 
accordance with § 36 -106 of the Code of Virginia, it shall be 
unlawful for any owner or any other person, firm or 
corporation, on or after the effective date of any code 
provisions, to violate any such provisions. Any locality may Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1946  adopt an ordinance that establishes a uniform schedule of 
civil penalties for violations of specified provisions of the 
code that are not abated or reme died promptly after receipt of 
a notice of violation from the local enforcement officer.  
Note: See the full text of Section 36 -106 of the Code of 
Virginia for additional requirements and criteria pertaining to 
legal action relative to violations of the co de. 
B. Section 105.2 Notices, reports and orders. Upon findings 
by the code official that violations of this code exist, the code 
official shall issue a correction notice or notice of violation to 
the owner or the person responsible for the maintenance of 
the structure. Work done to correct violations of this code 
subject to the permit, inspection and approval provisions of 
the VCC shall not be construed as authorization to extend the 
time limits established for compliance with this code.  
C. Section 105.3 C orrection notice. The correction notice 
shall be a written notice of the defective conditions. The 
correction notice shall require correction of the violation 
within a reasonable time unless an emergency condition 
exists as provided under the unsafe buildi ng provisions of 
Section 106. Upon request, the correction notice shall 
reference the code section that serves as the basis for the 
defects and shall state that such defects shall be corrected and 
reinspected in a reasonable time designated by the code 
official.  
D. Section 105.4 Notice of violation. If the code official 
determines there are violations of this code a written notice of 
violation may be issued to the owner or the person 
responsible for the maintenance or use of the building or 
structure in lie u of a correction notice as provided for in 
Section 105.3. In addition, the code official shall issue a 
notice of violation for any uncorrected violation remaining 
from a correction notice established in Section 105.3. The 
code official shall provide the s ection numbers to the owner 
for any code provisions cited in the notice of violation. The 
notice shall require correction of the violation within a 
reasonable time. The owner or person to whom the notice of 
violation has been issued shall be responsible fo r contacting 
the code official within the timeframe established for any 
reinspections to assure the violations have been corrected. 
The code official will be responsible for making such 
inspection and verifying the violations have been corrected. 
In additi on, the notice of violation shall indicate the right of 
appeal by referencing the appeals section of this code.  
Exceptions:  
1. Notices issued and legal proceedings or emergency 
actions taken under Section 106 for unsafe structures, 
unsafe equipment, or st ructures unfit for human 
occupancy.  
2. Notices issued for failing to maintain buildings and 
structures as required by Section 103.2, as evidenced by 
multiple or repeated violations on the same property are not required to include a compliance deadline for  
correcting defects.  
E. Section 105.5 Coordination of inspections. The code 
official shall coordinate inspections and administrative orders 
with any other state or local agencies having related 
inspection authority and shall coordinate those inspections 
required by the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code 
(13VAC5 -51) for maintenance of fire protection devices, 
equipment, and assemblies so that the owners and occupants 
will not be subjected to numerous inspections or conflicting 
orders.  
Note: The Fire Pr evention Code requires the fire official to 
coordinate such inspections with the code official.  
F. Section 105.6 Further action when violation not 
corrected. If the responsible party has not complied with the 
notice of violation, the code official may requ est the legal 
counsel of the locality to institute the appropriate legal 
proceedings to restrain, correct or abate the violation or to 
require the removal or termination of the use of the building 
or structure involved. In cases where the locality or legal  
counsel so authorizes, the code official may issue or obtain a 
summons or warrant. Compliance with a notice of violation 
notwithstanding, the code official may request legal 
proceedings be instituted for prosecution when a person, firm 
or corporation is s erved with three or more notices of 
violation for the same property.  
G. Section 105.7 Penalties and abatement. Penalties for 
violations of this code shall be as set out in § 36 -106 of the 
Code of Virginia. The successful prosecution of a violation of 
the c ode shall not preclude the institution of appropriate legal 
action to require correction or abatement of a violation.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-490. Section [  105 106 ] Unsafe structures or 
structures unfit for human occupancy.  
A. Section [  105.1  106.1  ] General. This section shall apply to 
existing structures which are classified as unsafe or unfit for 
human occupancy. All conditions causing such structures to be 
classified as unsafe or unfit for human occupancy shall be 
remedied or as an alternative t o correcting such conditions, the 
structure may be vacated and secured against public entry or 
razed and removed. Vacant and secured structures shall still be 
subject to other applicable requirements of this code. 
Notwithstanding the above, when the code o fficial determines 
that an unsafe structure or a structure unfit for human occupancy 
constitutes such a hazard that it should be razed or removed, then 
the code official shall be permitted to order the demolition of 
such structures in accordance with appli cable requirements of 
this code.  
Note: Structures which become unsafe during construction 
are regulated under the VCC.  
B. Section [  105.2  106.2  ] Inspection of unsafe or unfit 
structures. The code official shall inspect any structure 
reported or discover ed as unsafe or unfit for human habitation Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1947 and shall prepare a report to be filed in the records of the local 
enforcing agency and a copy issued to the owner. The report 
shall include the use of the structure and a description of the 
nature and extent of a ny conditions found.  
C. Section [  105.3  106.3  ] Unsafe conditions not related to 
maintenance. When the code official finds a condition that 
constitutes a serious and dangerous hazard to life or health in 
a structure constructed prior to the initial editio n of the USBC 
and when that condition is of a cause other than improper 
maintenance or failure to comply with state or local building 
codes that were in effect when the structure was constructed, 
then the code official shall be permitted to order those 
minimum changes to the design or construction of the 
structure to remedy the condition.  
D. Section [  105.3.1  106.3.1  ] Limitation to requirements for 
retrofitting. In accordance with Section 103.2, this code does 
not generally provide for requiring the retro fitting of any 
structure. However, conditions may exist in structures 
constructed prior to the initial edition of the USBC because of 
faulty design or equipment that constitute a danger to life or 
health or a serious hazard. Any changes to the design or 
construction required by the code official under this section 
shall be only to remedy the serious hazard or danger to life or 
health and such changes shall not be required to fully comply 
with the requirements of the VCC applicable to newly 
constructed build ings or structures.  
E. Section [  105.4  106.4  ] Notice of unsafe structure or 
structure unfit for human occupancy. When a structure is 
determined to be unsafe or unfit for human occupancy by the 
code official, a written notice of unsafe structure or struct ure 
unfit for human occupancy shall be issued by personal service 
to the owner, the owner's agent or the person in control of 
such structure. The notice shall specify the corrections 
necessary to comply with this code, or if the structure is 
required to be  demolished, the notice shall specify the time 
period within which the demolition must occur. Requirements 
in Section [  104.5.4  105.2  ] for notices of violation are also 
applicable to notices issued under this section to the extent 
that any such requiremen ts are not in conflict with the 
requirements of this section.  
Note: Whenever possible, the notice should also be given to 
any tenants of the affected structure.  
F. Section [  105.4.1  106.4.1  ] Vacating unsafe structure. If 
the code official determines the re is actual and immediate 
danger to the occupants or public, or when life is endangered 
by the occupancy of an unsafe structure, the code official 
shall be authorized to order the occupants to immediately 
vacate the unsafe structure. When an unsafe struct ure is 
ordered to be vacated, the code official shall post a notice 
with the following wording at each entrance: "THIS 
STRUCTURE IS UNSAFE AND ITS OCCUPANCY (OR 
USE) IS PROHIBITED BY THE CODE OFFICIAL." After 
posting, occupancy or use of the unsafe structu re shall be prohibited except when authorized to enter to conduct 
inspections, make required repairs or as necessary to 
demolish the structure.  
G. Section [  105.5  106.5  ] Posting of notice. If the notice is 
unable to be issued by personal service as requir ed by Section 
[ 105.4  106.4  ], then the notice shall be sent by registered or 
certified mail to the last known address of the responsible 
party and a copy of the notice shall be posted in a 
conspicuous place on the premises.  
H. Section [  105.6  106.6  ] Pos ting of placard. In the case of 
a structure unfit for human habitation, at the time the notice is 
issued, a placard with the following wording shall be posted 
at the entrance to the structure: "THIS STRUCTURE IS 
UNFIT FOR HABITATION AND ITS USE OR 
OCCUPANC Y HAS BEEN PROHIBITED BY THE CODE 
OFFICIAL." In the case of an unsafe structure, if the notice is 
not complied with, a placard with the above wording shall be 
posted at the entrance to the structure. After a structure is 
placarded, entering the structure s hall be prohibited except as 
authorized by the code official to make inspections, to 
perform required repairs or to demolish the structure. In 
addition, the placard shall not be removed until the structure 
is determined by the code official to be safe to o ccupy, nor 
shall the placard be defaced.  
I. Section [  105.7  106.7  ] Revocation of certificate of 
occupancy. If a notice of unsafe structure or structure unfit for 
human habitation is not complied with within the time period 
stipulated on the notice, the c ode official shall be permitted to 
request the local building department to revoke the certificate 
of occupancy issued under the VCC.  
J. Section [  105.8  106.8  ] Vacant and open structures. When 
an unsafe structure or a structure unfit for human habitation  is 
open for public entry at the time a placard is issued under 
Section [  105.6  106.6  ], the code official shall be permitted to 
authorize the necessary work to make such structure secure 
against public entry whether or not legal action to compel 
complianc e has been instituted.  
K. Section [  105.9  106.9  ] Emergency repairs and 
demolition. To the extent permitted by the locality, the code 
official may authorize emergency repairs to unsafe structures 
or structures unfit for human habitation when it is determi ned 
that there is an [  immediate  imminent  ] danger of any portion 
of the unsafe structure or structure unfit for human habitation 
collapsing or falling and when life is endangered. Emergency 
repairs may also be authorized where there is a code violation 
resulting in the immediate serious and imminent threat to the 
life and safety of the occupants. The code official shall be 
permitted to authorize the necessary work to make the 
structure temporarily safe whether or not legal action to 
compel compliance has b een instituted. In addition, whenever 
an owner of an unsafe structure or structure unfit for human 
habitation fails to comply with a notice to demolish issued 
under Section [  105.4  106.4  ] in the time period stipulated, the Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1948  code official shall be permitted  to cause the structure to be 
demolished. In accordance with §§ 15.2 -906 and 15.2 -1115 
of the Code of Virginia, the legal counsel of the locality may 
be requested to institute appropriate action against the 
property owner to recover the costs associated wi th any such 
emergency repairs or demolition and every such charge that 
remains unpaid shall constitute a lien against the property on 
which the emergency repairs or demolition were made and 
shall be enforceable in the same manner as provided in 
Articles 3 (§ 58.1 -3490 et seq.)  (§ 58.1 -3940 et seq.)  and 4 
(§ 58.1-3965 et seq.) of Chapter 39 of Title 58.1 of the Code 
of Virginia.  
Note: Code officials and local governing bodies should be 
aware that other statutes and court decisions may impact on 
matters rela ting to demolition, in particular whether 
newspaper publication is required if the owner cannot be 
located and whether the demolition order must be delayed 
until the owner has been given the opportunity for a hearing. 
In addition, historic building demolit ion may be prevented by 
authority granted to local historic review boards in 
accordance with § 15.2 -2306 of the Code of Virginia unless 
determined necessary by the code official.  
L. Section [  105.10  106.10  ] Closing of streets. When 
necessary for public s afety, the code official shall be 
permitted to order the temporary closing of sidewalks, streets, 
public ways or premises adjacent to unsafe or unfit structures 
and prohibit the use of such spaces.  
 [ 13VAC5 -63-500. Section 106 107 Appeals.  
A. Section 106.1 107.1  Establishment of appeals board. In 
accordance with § 36 -105 of the Code of Virginia, there shall 
be established within each local enforcing agency a LBBCA. 
Whenever a county or a municipality does not have such a 
LBBCA, the local governing body sh all enter into an 
agreement with the local governing body of another county or 
municipality or with some other agency, or a state agency 
approved by DHCD for such appeals resulting therefrom. 
Fees may be levied by the local governing body in order to 
defra y the cost of such appeals. The LBBCA for hearing 
appeals under the VCC shall be permitted to serve as the 
appeals board required by this section. The locality is 
responsible for maintaining a duly constituted LBBCA 
prepared to hear appeals within the time  limits established in 
this section. The LBBCA shall meet as necessary to assure a 
duly constituted board, appoint officers as necessary, and 
receive such training on the code as may be appropriate or 
necessary from staff of the locality.  
B. Section 106.2  107.2  Membership of board. The LBBCA 
shall consist of at least five members appointed by the 
locality for a specific term of office established by written 
policy. Alternate members may be appointed to serve in the 
absence of any regular members and as suc h, shall have the 
full power and authority of the regular members. Regular and 
alternate members may be reappointed. Written records of current membership, including a record of the current 
chairman and secretary shall be maintained in the office of 
the lo cality. In order to provide continuity, the terms of the 
members may be of different length so that less than half will 
expire in any one -year period.  
C. Section 106.3  107.3  Officers and qualifications of 
members. The LBBCA shall annually select one of it s regular 
members to serve as chairman. When the chairman is not 
present at an appeal hearing, the members present shall select 
an acting chairman. The locality or the chief executive officer 
of the locality shall appoint a secretary to the LBBCA to 
mainta in a detailed record of all proceedings. Members of the 
LBBCA shall be selected by the locality on the basis of their 
ability to render fair and competent decisions regarding 
application of the USBC and shall to the extent possible, 
represent different occ upational or professional fields relating 
to the construction industry. At least one member should be 
an experienced builder; at least one member should be an 
RDP, and at least one member should be an experienced 
property manager. Employees or officials of  the locality shall 
not serve as members of the LBBCA.  
D. Section 106.4  107.4  Conduct of members. No member 
shall hear an appeal in which that member has a conflict of 
interest in accordance with the State and Local Government 
Conflict of Interests Act (§ 2.2 -3100 et seq. of the Code of 
Virginia). Members shall not discuss the subs tance of an 
appeal with any other party or their representatives prior to 
any hearings.  
E. Section 106.5  107.5  Right of appeal; filing of appeal 
application. Any person aggrieved by the local enforcing 
agency's application of this code or the refusal to g rant a 
modification to the provisions of this code may appeal to the 
LBBCA. The applicant shall submit a written request for 
appeal to the LBBCA within 14 calendar days of the receipt 
of the decision being appealed. The application shall contain 
the name a nd address of the owner of the building or structure 
and, in addition, the name and address of the person 
appealing, when the applicant is not the owner. A copy of the 
code official's decision shall be submitted along with the 
application for appeal and ma intained as part of the record. 
The application shall be marked by the LBBCA to indicate 
the date received. Failure to submit an application for appeal 
within the time limit established by this section shall 
constitute acceptance of a code official's decis ion.  
F. Section 106.6  107.6  Meetings and postponements. The 
LBBCA shall meet within 30 calendar days after the date of 
receipt of the application for appeal, except that a period of 
up to 45 calendar days shall be permitted where the LBBCA 
has regularly s cheduled monthly meetings. A longer time 
period shall be permitted if agreed to by all the parties 
involved in the appeal. A notice indicating the time and place 
of the hearing shall be sent to the parties in writing to the 
addresses listed on the applicat ion at least 14 calendar days Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1949 prior to the date of the hearing, except that a lesser time 
period shall be permitted if agreed to by all the parties 
involved in the appeal. When a quorum of the LBBCA is not 
present at a hearing to hear an appeal, any party involved in 
the appeal shall have the right to request a postponement of 
the hearing. The LBBCA shall reschedule the appeal within 
30 calendar days of the postponement, except that a longer 
time period shall be permitted if agreed to by all the parties 
involved in the appeal.  
G. Section 106.7  107.7  Hearings and decision. All hearings 
before the LBBCA shall be open meetings and the appellant, 
the appellant's representative, the locality's representative and 
any person whose interests are affected by the cod e official's 
decision in question shall be given an opportunity to be heard. 
The chairman shall have the power and duty to direct the 
hearing, rule upon the acceptance of evidence and oversee the 
record of all proceedings. The LBBCA shall have the power 
to uphold, reverse , or modify the decision of the official by a 
concurring vote of a majority of those present. Decisions of 
the LBBCA shall be final if no further appeal is made. The 
decision of the LBBCA shall be by resolution  explained in 
writing,  signed by the chairman and retained as part of the 
record of the appeal. Copies of the resolution  written decision  
shall be sent to all parties by certified mail. In addition, the 
resolution  written decision  shall contain the following 
wording:  
"Any person who w as a party to the appeal may appeal to 
the State Review Board by submitting an application to 
such Board within 21 calendar days upon receipt by 
certified mail of this resolution  the written decision . 
Application forms are available from the Office of the 
State Review Board, 600 East Main Street, Richmond, 
Virginia 23219, (804) 371 -7150."  
H. Section 106.8  107.8  Appeals to the State Review Board. 
After final determination by the LBBCA in an appeal, any 
person who was a party to the appeal may further appeal  to 
the State Review Board. In accordance with § 36 -98.2 of the 
Code of Virginia for state -owned buildings and structures, 
appeals by an involved state agency from the decision of the 
code official for state -owned buildings or structures shall be 
made dire ctly to the State Review Board. The application for 
appeal shall be made to the State Review Board within 21 
calendar days of the receipt of the decision to be appealed. 
Failure to submit an application within that time limit shall 
constitute an acceptance  of the code official's decision. For 
appeals from a LBBCA, a copy of the code official's decision 
and the resolution of the LBBCA shall be submitted with the 
application for appeal to the State Review Board. Upon 
request by the Office of the State Review Board, the LBBCA 
shall submit a copy of all pertinent information from the 
record of the appeal. In the case of appeals involving state -
owned buildings or structures, the involved state agency shall 
submit a copy of the code official's decision and other 
relevant information with the application for appeal to the State Review Board. Procedures of the State Review Board 
are in accordance with Article 2 (§ 36 -108 et seq.) of Chapter 
6 of Title 36 of the Code of Virginia. Decisions of the State 
Review Board sh all be final if no further appeal is made.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-510. Chapter 2 Definitions.  
A. Change Section 201.3 of the IPMC to read:  
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not 
defined in this code and are defined in the IBC, IFC, IFGC, 
IPC, IMC,  International Existing Building Code, IRC, 
International Zoning Code or NFPA 70, such terms shall 
have the meanings ascribed to them as stated in those 
codes, except that terms defined in the VCC shall be used 
for this code and shall take precedence over other 
definitions.  
B. Change Section 201.5 of the IPMC to read:  
201.5 Parts. Whenever the words "dwelling unit," 
"dwelling," "premises," "building," "rooming unit," 
"housekeeping unit," or "story" are stated in this code, they 
shall be construed as though  they were followed by the 
words "or part thereof."  
B. C. Add the following definitions to Section 202 of the 
IPMC to read:  
[ Applicable building code. The local or statewide building 
code and referenced standards in effect at the time the 
building or por tion thereof was constructed, altered, 
renovated or underwent a change of occupancy. See 
Section 103 for the application of the code.  
Maintained. To keep unimpaired in an appropriate 
condition, operation, and continuance as installed in 
accordance with the  applicable building code, or as 
previously approved, and in accordance with the applicable 
operational and maintenance provisions of this code.  ]  
Structure unfit for human occupancy. An existing structure 
determined by the code official to be dangerous t o the 
health, safety and welfare of the occupants of the structure 
or the public because (i) of the degree to which the 
structure is in disrepair or lacks maintenance, ventilation, 
illumination, sanitary or heating facilities or other essential 
equipment, or (ii) the required plumbing and sanitary 
facilities are inoperable.  
Unsafe equipment. Unsafe equipment includes any boiler, 
heating equipment, elevator, moving stairway, electrical 
wiring or device, flammable liquid containers or other 
equipment that is  in such disrepair or condition that such 
equipment is determined by the code official to be 
dangerous to the health, safety and welfare of the 
occupants of a structure or the public.  
Unsafe structure. An existing structure (i) determined by 
the code offi cial to be dangerous to the health, safety and 
welfare of the occupants of the structure or the public, (ii) Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1950  that contains unsafe equipment, or (iii) that is so damaged, 
decayed, dilapidated, structurally unsafe or of such faulty 
construction or unstable f oundation that partial or complete 
collapse is likely. A vacant existing structure unsecured or 
open shall be deemed to be an unsafe structure.  
D. Delete the following definitions from Section 202 of the 
IEBC:  
Condemn  
Cost of such demolition of emergency repairs  
Equipment support  
[ Imminent danger  ]  
Inoperable motor vehicle  
Labeled  
Neglect  
Openable area  
Pest elimination  
Strict liability offense  
Ultimate deformation  
Workmanlike  
13VAC5 -63-520. Chapter 3 General requirements.  
A. Delete Section 302.1 of the IPMC.  
B. Change Section 302.2 of the IPMC to read:  
302.2 Grading and drainage. All premises shall be graded 
and maintained to protect the foundation walls or slab of 
the structure from the accumulation and drainage of 
surface or stagnant water in accorda nce with the VCC.  
C. Change Section 302.3 of the IPMC to read:  
302.3 Sidewalks and driveways. All sidewalks, walkways, 
stairs, driveways, parking spaces and similar spaces 
regulated under the VCC shall be kept in a proper state of 
repair, and maintained free from hazardous conditions. 
Stairs shall comply with the requirements of Sections 305 
and 702.  
D. Delete Section 302.4 of the IPMC.  
E. Change Section 302.5 of the IPMC to read:  
302.5 Rodent harborage. All structures and adjacent 
premises shall be kept free from rodent harborage and 
infestation where such harborage or infestation adversely 
affects the structures.  
F. Delete Sections 302.8 and 302.9 of the IPMC.  
G. Delete Section 304.1.1 of the IPMC.  
H. Change Section 304.7 of the IPMC to read:  304.7 Roofs and drainage. The roof and flashing shall be 
sound, tight and not have defects that admit rain. Roof 
drainage shall be adequate to prevent dampness or 
deterio ration in the walls or interior portion of the 
structure. Roof drains, gutters and downspouts shall be 
maintained in good repair and free from obstructions. Roof 
water shall be discharged in a manner to protect the 
foundation or slab of buildings and struc tures from the 
accumulation of roof drainage.  
I. Change Section 304.14 of the IPMC to read:  
304.14 Insect screens. During the period from April 1 to 
December 1, every door, window and other outside 
opening required for ventilation of habitable rooms, foo d 
preparation areas, food service areas or any areas where 
products to be included or utilized in food for human 
consumption are processed, manufactured, packaged or 
stored, shall be supplied with approved tightly fitting 
screens of not less than 16 mesh p er inch (16 mesh per 25 
mm) and every screen door used for insect control shall 
have a self -closing device in good working condition.  
Exception: Screens shall not be required where other 
approved means, such as mechanical ventilation, air 
curtains or inse ct repellant fans, are used.  
J. Delete Sections 304.18, 304.18.1, 304.18.2 and 304.18.3 
of the IPMC.  
K. Delete Section 305.1.1 of the IPMC.  
L. Add Section 305.7 to the IPMC to read:  
305.7 Carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide alarms 
shall be maintaine d as approved.  
M. Delete Section 306 of the IPMC in its entirety.  
N. Change Section 308.1 of the IPMC to read as follows and 
delete the remaining provisions of Section 308:  
308.1 Accumulation of rubbish and garbage. The interior 
of every structure shall  be free from excessive 
accumulation of rubbish or garbage.  
O. Change Section 309.1 of the IPMC to read:  
309.1 Infestation. This section shall apply to the extent that 
insect and rodent infestation adversely affects a structure. 
All structures shall be k ept free from insect and rodent 
infestation. All structures in which insects or rodents are 
found shall be promptly exterminated by approved 
processes that will not be injurious to human health. After 
extermination, proper precautions shall be taken to pre vent 
reinfestation.  
P. Add IPMC Section 310 Lead -Based Paint.  
Q. Add Section 310.1 to the IPMC to read:  
310.1 General. Interior and exterior painted surfaces of 
dwellings and child care facilities, including fences and Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1951 outbuildings, that contain lead le vels equal to or greater 
than 1.0 milligram per square centimeter or in excess of 
0.50% lead by weight shall be maintained in a condition 
free from peeling, chipping and flaking paint or removed 
or covered in an approved manner. Any surface to be 
covered s hall first be identified by an approved warning as 
to the lead content of such surface.  
R. Add IPMC Section 311 Aboveground Liquid Fertilizer 
Storage Tanks (ALFSTs).  
S. Add Section 311.1 to the IPMC to read:  
311.1 General. ALFSTs shall be maintained in accordance 
with the requirements of Section 1701.16 of the VRC and 
the requirements of the VCC applicable to such ALFSTs 
when newly constructed and the requirements of the VRC 
when undergoing a change of occupancy to an ALFST and 
when repaired, altered or reconstructed, including the 
requirements for inspections and for a secondary 
containment system.  
A. Delete the following sections from Chapter 3 of the 
IPMC:  
1. Section 301.2 Responsibility.  
2. Section 302.1 Sanitation.  
3. Section 302.4 Weeds.  
4. Section  302.6 Exhaust vents.  
5. Section 302.8 Motor vehicles.  
6. Section 302.9 Defacement of property.  
7. Section 303.2 Enclosures.  
8. Section 304.1.1 Unsafe conditions.  
9. Section 304.18.1 Doors.  
10. Section 304.18.2 Windows.  
11. Section 304.18.3 Basement hatchw ays. 
12. Section 305.1.1 Unsafe conditions.  
13. Section 306 Component serviceability (all provisions).  
14. Section 308.2 Disposal of rubbish.  
15. Section 308.2.1 Rubbish storage facilities.  
16. Section 308.2.2 Refrigerators.  
17. Section 308.3 Disposal of g arbage.  
18. Section 308.3.1 Garbage facilities.  
19. Section 308.3.2 Containers.  
20. Section 309.2 Owner.  
21. Section 309.3 Single occupant.  
22. Section 309.4 Multiple occupancy.  23. Section 309.5 Occupant.  
B. Change the following sections in Chapter 3 of t he IPMC 
to read:  
1. Section 301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall 
govern the minimum conditions for the maintenance of 
structures and equipment and for the maintenance of 
exterior property to the extent that this code is applicable.  
2. Section 301.3 Vacant structures. Vacant structures shall 
be maintained in a clean, safe, secure, and sanitary 
condition as provided for in this code.  
3. Section 302.2 Grading and drainage. All premises shall 
be graded and maintained to protect the foundation walls  
or slab of the structure from the accumulation and drainage 
of surface or stagnant water in accordance with the  [ VCC  
applicable building code  ]. 
4. Section 302.3 Sidewalks and driveways. All sidewalks, 
walkways, stairs, driveways, parking spaces, and sim ilar 
spaces regulated under the VCC shall be kept in a proper 
state of repair and maintained free from hazardous 
conditions.  
5. Section 302.5 Rodent harborage. All structures and 
adjacent premises shall be kept free from rodent harborage 
and infestation wh ere such harborage or infestation 
adversely affects the structures.  
6. Section 303.2 Enclosures. Swimming pool, hot tub, and 
spa barriers shall be maintained  [ as required by the  in 
accordance with the applicable building  ] code or 
ordinance under which su ch barriers were constructed.  
7. Section 304.1 General. The exterior of a structure shall 
be maintained in good repair, structurally sound, and 
sanitary so as not to pose a threat to the health, safety, or 
welfare.  
8. Section 304.3 Premises identification.  Address numbers 
of buildings shall be maintained  [ when required by  in 
accordance with  ] the [ applicable building  ] code [ under 
which such buildings were constructed  ] or when required 
by ordinance.  
9. Section 304.7 Roofs and drainage. The roof and flas hing 
shall be sound, tight, and not have defects that admit rain. 
Roof drainage shall be adequate to prevent dampness or 
deterioration in the walls or interior portion of the 
structure.   Roof water shall be discharged in a manner to 
protect the foundation or slab of buildings and structures 
from the accumulation of roof drainage.  
10. Section 304.14 Insect screens. During the period from 
April 1 to December 1, every door, window, and other 
outside opening required for ventilation of habitable 
rooms, food pre paration areas, food service areas, or any 
areas where products to be included or utilized in food for 
human consumption are processed, manufactured, Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1952  packaged, or stored shall be supplied with an approved 
tightly fitting screens of not less than 16 mesh pe r inch (16 
mesh per 25 mm) and every screen door used for insect 
control shall have a self -closing device in good working 
condition.  
Exception: Screens shall not be required where other 
approved means, such as mechanical ventilation, air 
curtains, or insec t repellant fans, are used.  
11. Section 304.18 Building security. Devices designed to 
provide security for the occupants and property within, 
when required by the  [ applicable building  ] code  [ under 
which a building was constructed,  ] or when provided, 
shall be maintained unless their removal is approved by the 
building official under the VCC.  
12. Section 304.19 Gates. To the extent required by the  
[ applicable building  ] code  [ under which constructed  ] or 
to the extent provided when constructed, exterior  gates, 
gate assemblies, operator systems if provided, and 
hardware shall be maintained in good condition. Latches at 
all entrances shall tightly secure the gates.  
13. Section 305.1 General. The interior of a structure and 
equipment therein shall be mainta ined in good repair, 
structurally sound, and in a sanitary condition.  
14. Section 307.1 General. Handrails and guards required  
[ by the code under which a building was constructed  ] or 
[ which were  ] provided when a building was constructed 
shall be mainta ined [ in accordance with the applicable 
building code  ]. 
15. Section 308.1 Accumulation of rubbish or garbage. The 
interior of every structure shall be free from excessive 
accumulation of rubbish or garbage.  
16. Section 309 Pest Infestation and exterminat ion. 
17. Section 309.1 Infestation. This section shall apply to 
the extent that insect and rodent infestation adversely 
affects a structure. All structures shall be kept free from 
insect and rodent infestation. Structures in which insects or 
rodents are fo und shall be promptly exterminated by 
approved processes that will not be injurious to human 
health. After extermination, proper precautions shall be 
taken to prevent reinfestation.  
C. Add the following sections to Chapter 3 of the IPMC:  
1. Section 305.7 C arbon monoxide alarms. Carbon 
monoxide alarms shall be maintained as approved.  
2. Section 310 Lead -based paint.  
3. Section 310.1 General. Interior and exterior painted 
surfaces of dwellings and child care facilities, including 
fences and outbuildings, that  contain lead levels equal to or 
greater than 1.0 milligram per square centimeter or in 
excess of 0.50% lead by weight shall be maintained in a condition free from peeling, chipping, and flaking paint or 
removed or covered in an approved manner. Any surfac e to 
be covered shall first be identified by an approved warning 
as to the lead content of such surface.  
4. Section 311 Aboveground liquid fertilizer storage tanks 
(ALFST).  
5. Section 311.1 General. ALFSTs shall be maintained in 
accordance with the requirements of Section  [ 1701.16  
1101.16  ] of the VEBC and the requirements of the VCC 
applicable to such ALFSTs when newly constructed and 
the requirements of the VEBC when undergoing a change 
of occupancy to an ALFST and when repaired, altered, or 
recon structed, including the requirements for inspections 
and for a secondary containment system.  
13VAC5 -63-524. Chapter 4 Light, ventilation, and 
occupancy limitations.  
A. Delete the following sections from Chapter 4 of the 
IPMC:  
1. Section 401.2 Responsibilit y. 
2. Section 401.3 Alternative devices.  
3. Section 402.2 Common halls and stairways.  
4. Section 402.3 Other spaces.  
5. Section 403.2 Bathrooms and toilet rooms.  
6. Section 403.5 Clothes dryer exhaust.  
B. Change the following sections in Chapter 4 of the I PMC 
to read:  
1. Section 401.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall 
govern the maintenance of structures for light, ventilation, 
and space for occupancy.  
2. Section 402.1 Natural or artificial light. Every habitable 
space, hallway, stairway, bathroom , and other spaces shall 
be maintained to provide natural or artificial light to the 
extent required  [ by the code under which a building was 
constructed  ] or [ to the extent  ] provided  [ when such 
building was constructed  in accordance with the applicable  
building code  ]. 
3. Section 403.1 Natural or mechanical ventilation. Every 
habitable space, hallway, stairway, bathroom, and other 
spaces shall be maintained to provide natural or 
mechanical ventilation to the extent required by the  
[ applicable building  ] code  [ under which a building was 
constructed or to the extent provided when such building 
was constructed  ]. 
4. Section 403.4 Process ventilation. Local exhaust systems 
required by the  [ applicable building  ] code  [ under which a 
building was construct ed, ] or [ which  that ] are provided  
[ , ] that exhaust injurious, toxic, irritating, or noxious 
fumes, gases, dusts, or mists to the exterior of a building Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1953 shall be maintained to prevent compromising the required 
ventilation system.  
C. Add the following s ection to Chapter 4 of the IPMC:  
Section 404.05 Limitation of application of section. The 
provisions of Section 404 that address construction aspects 
of occupancy limitations shall apply  [ on only to  ] the 
extent that such requirements were part of the  [ applicable 
building  ] code  [ under which a building was constructed  ]. 
Operational requirements such as the use of rooms or 
minimum areas per occupant are part of this code  [ only ] 
to the extent that they do not require alterations to be made 
to a building . 
13VAC5 -63-530. Chapter 5 Plumbing facilities and fixture 
requirements.  
A. Add Section 505.5 to the IPMC to read:  
505.5 Inspection and testing of backflow prevention 
assemblies. Inspection and testing shall comply with 
Sections 505.5.1 and 505.5.2.  
B. Add Section 505.5.1 to the IPMC to read:  
505.5.1 Inspections. Inspections shall be made of all 
backflow prevention assemblies and air gaps to determine 
whether they are operable.  
C. Add Section 505.5.2 to the IMPC to read:  
505.5.2 Testing. Reduced pr essure principle backflow 
preventer assemblies, double check -valve assemblies, 
double -detector check valve assemblies and pressure 
vacuum breaker assemblies shall be tested at the time of 
installation, immediately after repairs or relocation and at 
least a nnually. The testing procedure shall be performed in 
accordance with one of the following standards: ASSE 
5010 -1013 -1, Sections 1 and 2; ASSE 5010 -1015 -1, 
Sections 1 and 2; ASSE 5010 -1015 -2; ASSE 5010 -1015 -3, 
Sections 1 and 2; ASSE 5010 -1015 -4, Sections 1 and 2; 
ASSE 5010 -1020 -1, Sections 1 and 2; ASSE 5010 -1047 -1, 
Sections 1, 2, 3 and 4; ASSE 5010 -1048 -1, Sections 1, 2, 3 
and 4; ASSE 5010 -1048 -2; ASSE 5010 -1048 -3, Sections 
1, 2, 3 and 4; ASSE 5010 -1048 -4, Sections 1, 2, 3 and 4; or 
CAN/CSA B64.10.  
D. Chan ge Section 507.1 of the IPMC to read:  
507.1 General. Drainage of roofs and paved areas, yards 
and courts, and other open areas on the premises shall be 
discharged in a manner to protect the buildings and 
structures from the accumulation of overland water runoff.  
A. Change the title of Chapter 5 of the IPMC to "Plumbing 
Requirements."  
B. Delete the following sections from Chapter 5 of the 
IPMC:  
1. Section 501.2 Responsibility.  2. Section 502 Required facilities (all provisions).  
3. Section 503 Toilet rooms  (all provisions).  
4. Section 505.3 Supply.  
C. Change the following sections in Chapter 5 of the IPMC 
to read:  
1. Section 501.1 General. The provisions of this chapter 
shall govern the maintenance of structures for plumbing 
systems, facilities, and fixture s. 
2. Section 504.1 General. Required or provided plumbing 
systems and facilities shall be maintained in  [ compliance  
accordance  ] with the  [ applicable building  ] code  [ under 
which constructed  ]. 
3. Section 504.2 Plumbing fixtures. All plumbing fixtures 
shall be maintained in a safe, sanitary, and working 
condition. A kitchen sink shall not be used as a substitute 
for a required lavatory.  
4. Section 504.3 Plumbing system hazards. Where it is 
found that a plumbing system in a structure constitutes a 
hazard  to the public, the occupants, or the structure, the 
code official shall require the defects to be corrected to 
eliminate the hazard.  
5. Section 505.1 Supply. Required or provided water 
supply systems shall be maintained in  [ compliance  
accordance  ] with t he [ applicable building  ] code  [ under 
which the systems were constructed  ]. All water supply 
systems shall be free from obstructions, defects, and leaks.  
6. Section 505.2 Protection of water supply systems. 
Protection of water supply systems shall be pro vided  [ to 
the extent required by the code under which a building was 
constructed  ] and [ shall be  ] maintained  [ in accordance 
with the applicable building code  ]. 
7. Section 505.3 Inspection and testing of backflow 
prevention systems. Inspection and test ing shall comply 
with Sections 505.3.1 and 505.3.2.  
8. Section 505.4 Water heating facilities. Water heating 
facilities shall be maintained. Combination temperature 
and pressure -relief valves and relief valve discharge pipes 
shall be maintained on water he aters.  
9. Section 506.1 Drainage and venting. Required or 
provided sanitary drainage and venting systems shall be 
maintained in  [ compliance  accordance  ] with the  
[ applicable building  ] code  [ under which the system was 
constructed  ]. 
10. Section 506.2 Maintenance. Every building drainage 
and sewer system shall function properly and be kept free 
from obstructions, leaks, and defects.  
11. Section 507.1 General. Drainage of roofs and paved 
areas, yards and courts, and other open areas on the Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1954  premises shall  be discharged in a manner to protect the 
buildings and structures from the accumulation of overland 
water runoff.  
D. Add the following sections to Chapter 5 of the IPMC:  
1. Section 504.1.1 Public and employee facilities. Except 
for periodic maintenance or  cleaning, access and use shall 
be provided to facilities at all times during occupancy of 
the premises in accordance with the  [ applicable building  ] 
code  [ under which constructed  ]. 
2. Section 504.2.1 Fixture clearances. Adequate clearances 
for usage an d cleaning of plumbing fixtures shall be 
maintained as approved when installed.  
3. Section 505.1.1 Tempered water. Tempered water shall 
be supplied to fixtures and facilities when required by the  
[ applicable building  ] code  [ under which constructed  ]. 
4. Section 505.2.1 Attached hoses. Shampoo basin faucets, 
janitor sink faucets, and other hose bibs or faucets to which 
hoses are attached and left in place shall be protected by an 
approved atmospheric -type vacuum breaker or an approved 
permanently attached  hose connection vacuum breaker.  
5. Section 505.3.1 Inspections. Inspections shall be made 
of all backflow assemblies and air gaps to determine 
whether they are operable.  
6. Section 505.3.2 Testing. Reduced pressure principle 
backflow preventer assemblies,  double check -valve 
assemblies, double -detector check valve assemblies, and 
pressure vacuum breaker assemblies shall be tested at the 
time of installation, immediately after repairs or relocation 
and at least annually. The testing procedure shall be 
perfor med in accordance with one of the following 
standards: ASSE 5010 -1013 -1, Sections 1 and 2; ASSE 
5010 -1015 -1, Sections 1 and 2; ASSE 5010 -1015 -2; ASSE 
5010 -1015 -3, Sections 1 and 2; ASSE 5010 -1015 -4, 
Sections 1 and 2; ASSE 5010 -1020 -1, Sections 1 and 2; 
ASSE 5010 -1047 -1, Sections 1, 2, 3 and 4; ASSE 5010 -
1048 -1, Sections 1, 2, 3 and 4; ASSE 5010 -1048 -2; ASSE 
5010 -1048 -3, Sections 1, 2, 3 and 4; ASSE 5010 -1048 -4, 
Sections 1, 2, 3 and 4; or CAN/CSA B64.10.  
[ 7. 505.5 Nonpotable water reuse systems. Where 
insta lled, nonpotable water reuse and rainwater collection 
and conveyance systems shall be maintained in a safe and 
sanitary condition. Where such systems are not properly 
maintained, the systems shall be repaired to provide for 
safe and sanitary conditions, or  the system shall be 
abandoned in accordance with the following:  
1. All system piping connecting to a utility provided or 
private water system shall be removed or disabled. 
Proper cross -connection control and backflow prevention 
measures shall comply with  the applicable building code.  2. Where required, the distribution piping system shall be 
replaced with an approved potable water supply piping 
system.  
3. The storage tank shall be secured from accidental 
access by sealing or locking tank inlets and acce ss points 
or filling with sand or equivalent.  ]  
13VAC5 -63-540. Chapter 6 Mechanical and electrical 
requirements.  
A. Change Section 602 of the IPMC to read:  
Section 602 Heating and Cooling Facilities.  
B. Change Section 602.1 of the IPMC to read:  
602.1 Facilities required. Heating and cooling facilities 
shall be maintained and operated in structures as required 
by this section.  
C. Change Section 602.2 of the IPMC to read:  
602.2 Heat supply. Every owner and operator of a Group 
R-2 apartment building or other residential dwelling who 
rents, leases or lets one or more dwelling unit, rooming 
unit, dormitory or guestroom on terms, either expressed or 
implied, to furnish heat to the occupants thereof shall 
supply heat during the period from October 15 to May 1 to 
maintain a temperature of not less than 65°F (18°C) in all 
habitable rooms, bathrooms, and toilet rooms. The code 
official may also consider modifications as provided in 
Section 104.5.2 when requested for unusual circumstances 
or may issue notice appr oving building owners to convert 
shared heating and cooling piping HVAC systems 14 
calendar days before or after the established dates when 
extended periods of unusual temperatures merit modifying 
these dates.  
Exception: When the outdoor temperature is be low the 
winter outdoor design temperature for the locality, 
maintenance of the minimum room temperature shall not 
be required provided that the heating system is operating at 
its full design capacity. The winter outdoor design 
temperature for the locality shall be as indicated in 
Appendix D of the IPC.  
D. Add Section 602.2.1 to the IPMC to read:  
602.2.1 Prohibited use. In dwelling units subject to Section 
602.2, one or more unvented room heaters shall not be 
used as the sole source of comfort heat in a dw elling unit.  
E. Change Section 602.3 of the IPMC to read:  
602.3 Occupiable work spaces. Indoor occupiable work 
spaces shall be supplied with heat during the period from 
October 1 to May 15 to maintain a temperature of not less 
than 65°F (18°C) during the  period the spaces are 
occupied.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1955 Exceptions:  
1. Processing, storage and operation areas that require 
cooling or special temperature conditions.  
2. Areas in which persons are primarily engaged in 
vigorous physical activities.  
F. Change Section 602.4 of the IPMC to read:  
602.4 Cooling supply. Every owner and operator of a 
Group R -2 apartment building who rents, leases or lets one 
or more dwelling units, rooming units or guestrooms on 
terms, either expressed or implied, to furni sh cooling to the 
occupants thereof shall supply cooling during the period 
from May 15 to October 1 to maintain a temperature of not 
more than 80°F (27°C) in all habitable rooms. The code 
official may also consider modifications as provided in 
Section 104. 5.2 when requested for unusual circumstances 
or may issue notice approving building owners to convert 
shared heating and cooling piping HVAC systems 14 
calendar days before or after the established dates when 
extended periods of unusual temperatures merit modifying 
these dates.  
Exception: When the outdoor temperature is higher than 
the summer design temperature for the locality, 
maintenance of the room temperature shall not be required 
provided that the cooling system is operating at its full 
design capaci ty. The summer outdoor design temperature 
for the locality shall be as indicated in the IECC.  
G. Change the exception to Section 604.3.1.1 of the IPMC 
to read:  
Exception: The following equipment shall be allowed to be 
repaired or reused where an inspecti on report from the 
equipment manufacturer, an approved representative of the 
equipment manufacturer, a third party licensed or certified 
electrician, or an electrical engineer indicates that the 
exposed equipment has not sustained damage that requires 
replacement:  
1. Enclosed switches, rated 600 volts or less;  
2. Busway, rated 600 volts or less;  
3. Panelboards, rated 600 volts or less;  
4. Switchboards, rated 600 volts or less;  
5. Fire pump controllers, rated 600 volts or less;  
6. Manual and magnetic motor controllers;  
7. Motor control centers;  
8. Alternating current high -voltage circuit breakers;  
9. Low -voltage power circuit breakers;  
10. Protective relays, meters and current transformers;  
11. Low -voltage and medium -voltage  switchgear;  12. Liquid -filled transformers;  
13. Cast -resin transformers;  
14. Wire or cable that is suitable for wet locations and 
whose ends have not been exposed to water;  
15. Wire or cable, not containing fillers, that is suitable 
for wet locations and whose ends have not been exposed 
to water;  
16. Luminaires that are listed as submersible;  
17. Motors;  
18. Electronic control, signaling and communication 
equipment.  
H. Change Section 606.1 to the IPMC to read:  
606.1 General. Elevators, dumbwaiters and escalators shall 
be maintained in compliance with ASME A17.1. The most 
current certificate of inspection shall be on display at all 
times within the elevator or attached to the escalator or 
dumbwaiter, be available  for public inspection in the office 
of the building operator or be posted in a publicly 
conspicuous location approved by the code official. An 
annual periodic inspection and test is required of elevators 
and escalators. A locality shall be permitted to re quire a 
six-month periodic inspection and test. All periodic 
inspections shall be performed in accordance with Section 
8.11 of ASME A17.1. The code official may also provide 
for such inspection by an approved agency or through 
agreement with other local ce rtified elevator inspectors. An 
approved agency includes any individual, partnership or 
corporation who has met the certification requirements 
established by the VCS.  
A. Delete the following sections from Chapter 6 of the 
IPMC:  
1. Section 601.2 Responsibi lity. 
2. Section 603.6 Energy conservation devices.  
3. Section 604.2 Service.  
4. Section 604.3.2 Abatement of electrical hazards 
associated with fire exposure.  
[ 5. Section 604.3.2.1 Electrical equipment.  ]  
B. Change the following sections in Chapter 6 of  the IPMC 
to read:  
1. Section 601.1 General. The provisions of this chapter 
shall govern the maintenance of mechanical and electrical 
facilities and equipment.  
2. Section 602 Heating and cooling facilities.  
3. Section 602.2 Heat supply. Every owner and ope rator of 
a Group R -2 apartment building or other residential 
building who rents, leases, or lets one or more dwelling Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1956  unit, rooming unit, dormitory, or guestroom on terms, 
either expressed or implied, to furnish heat to the 
occupants thereof shall supply h eat during the period from 
October 15 to May 1 to maintain a temperature of not less 
than 68°F (20°C) in all habitable rooms, bathrooms, and 
toilet rooms. The code official may also consider 
modifications as provided in Section 104.5.2 when 
requested for u nusual circumstances or may issue notice 
approving building owners to convert shared heating and 
cooling piping HVAC systems 14 calendar days before or 
after the established dates when extended periods of 
unusual temperatures merit modifying these dates.  
Exception: When the outdoor temperature is below the 
winter outdoor design temperature for the locality, 
maintenance of the minimum room temperature shall not 
be required provided that the heating system is operating at 
its full design capacity. The winter outdoor design 
temperature for the locality shall be as indicated in 
Appendix D of the IPC.  
4. Section 602.3 Occupiable work spaces. Indoor 
occupiable work spaces shall be supplied with heat during 
the period from October 1 to May 15 to maintain a 
minimum temperature of 65°F (18°C) during the period the 
spaces are occupied.  
Exceptions:  
1. Processing, storage, and operation areas that require 
cooling or special temperature conditions.  
2. Areas in which persons are primarily engaged in 
vigorous physical activ ities.  
5. Section 602.4 Cooling supply. Every owner and operator 
of a Group R -2 apartment building who rents, leases, or 
lets one or more dwelling units, rooming units, or 
guestrooms on terms, either expressed or implied, to 
furnish cooling to the occupant s thereof shall supply 
cooling during the period from May 15 to October 1 to 
maintain a temperature of not more than 80°F (27°C) in all 
habitable rooms. The code official may also consider 
modifications as provided in Section 104.5.2 when 
requested for unu sual circumstances or may issue notice 
approving building owners to convert shared heating and 
cooling piping HVAC systems 14 calendar days before or 
after the established dates when extended periods of 
unusual temperatures merit modifying these dates.  
Exception: When the outdoor temperature is higher than 
the summer design temperature for the locality, 
maintenance of the room temperature shall not be required 
provided that the cooling system is operating at its full 
design capacity. The summer outdoor desi gn temperature 
for the locality shall be as indicated in the IECC.  
6. Section 603.1 Mechanical  [ equipment and  ] appliances. 
Required or provided mechanical  [ equipment,  ] appliances, fireplaces, solid fuel -burning appliances, 
cooking appliances, chimneys,  vents, and water heating 
appliances shall be maintained in compliance with the code 
under which the appliances, system, or equipment was 
installed, kept in safe working condition, and capable of 
performing the intended function.  
7. Section 603.2 Removal o f combustion products. Where 
required by the code under which installed, fuel -burning 
equipment and appliances shall be connected to an 
approved chimney or vent.  
8. Section 603.5 Combustion air. Where required by the 
code under which installed, a supply of  air for complete 
combustion of the fuel shall be provided for the fuel -
burning equipment.  
9. Section 604.1 Electrical system. Required or provided 
electrical systems and facilities shall be maintained in  
[ compliance  accordance  ] with the  [ applicable bui lding  ] 
code  [ under which the system or facility was 
constructed  ]. 
10. Section 604.3 Electrical system hazards. Where it is 
found that the electrical system in a structure constitutes a 
hazard to the occupants or the structure by reason of 
deterioration or damage or for similar reasons, the code 
official shall require the defects to be corrected to 
eliminate the hazard.  
11. Section 604.3.1.1 Electrical equipment. Electrical 
distribution equipment, motor circuits, power equipment, 
transformers, wire, cable , flexible cords, wiring devices, 
ground fault circuit interrupters, surge protectors, molded 
case circuit breakers, low -voltage fuses, luminaires, 
ballasts, motors, and electronic control, signaling, and 
communication equipment that have been exposed to w ater 
shall be replaced in accordance with the provisions of the 
VCC.  
Exception: The following equipment shall be allowed to be 
repaired or reused where an inspection report from the 
equipment manufacturer, an approved representative of the 
equipment manufa cturer, a third party licensed or certified 
electrician, or an electrical engineer indicates that the 
exposed equipment has not sustained damage that requires 
replacement:  
1. Enclosed switches, rated 600 volts or less;  
2. Busway, rated 600 volts or less;   
3. Panelboards, rated 600 volts or less;  
4. Switchboards, rated 600 volts or less;  
5. Fire pump controllers, rated 600 volts or less;  
6. Manual and magnetic motor controllers;  
7. Motor control centers;  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1957 8. Alternating current high -voltage circuit breakers;  
9. Low -voltage power circuit breakers;  
10. Protective relays, meters, and current transformers;  
11. Low -voltage and medium -voltage switchgear;  
12. Liquid -filled transformers;  
13. Cast -resin transfo rmers;  
14. Wire or cable that is suitable for wet locations and 
whose ends have not been exposed to water;  
15. Wire or cable, not containing fillers, that is suitable 
for wet locations and whose ends have not been exposed 
to water;  
16. Luminaires that a re listed as submersible;  
17. Motors; or  
18. Electronic control, signaling, and communication 
equipment.  
12. [ 604.3.2.1 Electrical equipment. Electrical switches, 
receptacles and fixtures, including furnace, water heating, 
security system and power distr ibution circuits, that have 
been exposed to fire shall be replaced in accordance with 
the provisions of the Virginia Construction Code.  
Exception: Electrical switches, receptacles and fixtures that 
shall be allowed to be repaired or reused where an 
inspect ion report from the equipment manufacturer or an 
approved representative of the equipment manufacturer, a 
third party licensed or certified electrician, or an electrical 
engineer indicates that the equipment has not sustained 
damage that requires replaceme nt. 
13. ] Section 605.1 Electrical components. Electrical 
equipment, wiring, and appliances shall be maintained in  
[ compliance  accordance  ] with the  [ applicable building  ] 
code  [ under which constructed and in a safe manner  ]. 
[ 13. 14. ] Section 605.2 P ower distribution and 
receptacles. Required or provided power circuits and 
receptacles shall be maintained in accordance with the  
[ applicable building  ] code  [ under which constructed , ] 
and ground fault and arc -fault circuit interrupter protection 
shall be provided where required by the  [ applicable 
building  ] code  [ in effect at the time of construction  ]. All 
receptacle outlets shall have the appropriate faceplate 
cover for the location when required by the  [ applicable 
building  ] code  [ under which constructed  ]. 
[ 14. 15. ] Section 605.3 Lighting distribution and 
luminaires. Required or provided lighting circuits and 
luminaires shall be maintained in  [ compliance  
accordance  ] with the  [ applicable building  ] code  [ under 
which constructed  ]. [ 15. 16. ] Section 605.4 Flexible cords. Flexible cords 
shall not be run through doors, windows, or cabinets or 
concealed within walls, floors, or ceilings.  
[ 16. 17. ] Section 606.1 General. Elevators, dumbwaiters, 
and escalators shall be maintained in complian ce with 
ASME A17.1. The most current certificate of inspection 
shall be on display at all times within the elevator or 
attached to the escalator or dumbwaiter, be available for 
public inspection in the office of the building operator, or 
be posted in a pub licly conspicuous location approved by 
the code official.  [ Where not displayed in the elevator or 
attached on the escalator or dumbwaiter, there shall be a 
notice of where the certificate of inspection is available for 
inspection.  ] An annual periodic ins pection and test is 
required of elevators and escalators. A locality shall be 
permitted to require a six -month periodic inspection and 
test. All periodic inspections shall be performed in 
accordance with Section 8.11 of ASME A17.1. The code 
official may al so provide for such inspection by an 
approved agency or through agreement with other local 
certified elevator inspectors. An approved agency includes 
any individual, partnership, or corporation who has met the 
certification requirements established by the VCS.  
C. Add the following sections to Chapter 6 of the IPMC:  
1. Section 602.2.1 Prohibited use. In dwelling units subject 
to Section 602.2, one or more unvented room heaters shall 
not be used as the sole source of comfort heat in a dwelling 
unit. 
2. Sectio n 607.2 Clothes dryer exhaust duct. Required or 
provided clothes dryer exhaust systems shall be maintained 
in [ compliance  accordance  ] with the  [ applicable 
building  ] code  [ under which constructed  ]. 
13VAC5 -63-545. Chapter 7 Fire safety requirements.  
A. Delete the following sections from Chapter 7 of the 
IPMC:  
1. Section 701.2 Responsibility.  
2. Section 704.1.2 Fire department connection.  
3. Section 704.2.1 Where required.  
4. Section 704.2.1.1 Group R -1. 
5. Section 704.2.1.2 Groups R -2, R-3, R-4, and I-1. 
6. Section 704.2.1.3 Installation near cooking appliances.  
7. Section 704.2.1.4 Installation near bathrooms.  
8. Section 704.2.2 Interconnection.  
9. Section 704.2.3 Power source.  
10. Section 704.2.4 Smoke detection system.  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1958  B. Change the following secti ons in Chapter 7 of the IPMC:  
1. Section 701.1 General. The provisions of this chapter 
shall govern the maintenance of fire safety facilities and 
equipment.  
2. Section 702.2 Aisles. The required width of aisles shall 
be maintained in accordance with the  [ applicable 
building  ] code  [ under which constructed  ]. 
3. Section 702.3 Doors. Means of egress doors shall be 
maintained and, to the extent required by the code in effect 
at the time of construction, shall be readily openable from 
the side from which egre ss is to be made without the need 
for keys, special knowledge, or effort.  
4. Section 702.4 Emergency escape openings. Required 
emergency escape openings shall be maintained in 
accordance with the code in effect at the time of 
construction and to the extent  required by the code in effect 
at the time of construction shall be operational from the 
inside of the room without the use of keys or tools. Bars, 
grilles, grates, or similar devices are permitted to be placed 
over emergency escape and rescue openings pr ovided the 
minimum net clear opening size complies with the code 
that was in effect at the time of construction and such 
devices shall be releasable or removable from the inside 
without the use of a key, tool, or force greater than that 
which is required f or normal operation of the escape and 
rescue opening.  
5. Section 704.1 General. Systems, devices, and equipment 
to detect a fire, actuate an alarm, or suppress or control a 
fire or any combination thereof shall be maintained in an 
operable condition at all  times.  
6. Section 704.1.1 Automatic sprinkler systems. 
Inspection, testing, and maintenance of automatic sprinkler 
systems shall be in accordance with NFPA 25 for the 
purpose of operation and maintenance.  
7. Section 704.2 Single -station and multiple -station smoke 
alarms. Required or provided single -station and multiple -
station smoke alarms shall be maintained in  [ compliance  
accordance  ] with the  [ applicable building  ] code  [ under 
which they were constructed  ]. 
13VAC5 -63-549. Chapter 8 Referenced standar ds. 
Change the referenced standards in Chapter 8 of the IPMC 
as follows (standards not shown remain the same):  
Standard reference 
number  Title  Referenced 
in code 
section 
number  
ASSE 5010 -1013 -1 Field Test 
Procedure for a 
Reduced 
Pressure 505.3.2  Principle 
Assembly Using 
a Differential 
Pressure Gauge, 
1991  
ASSE 5010 -1015 -1 Field Test 
Procedure for a 
Double Check 
Valve Assembly 
Using a Duplex 
Gauge, 1991  505.3.2  
ASSE 5010 -1015 -2 Field Test 
Procedure for a 
Double Check 
Valve Assembly 
Using a 
Differential 
Pressure Gauge - 
High - and 
Low-Pressure 
Hose Method, 
1991  505.3.2  
ASSE 5010 -1015 -3 Field Test 
Procedure for a 
Double Check 
Valve Assembly 
Using a 
Differential 
Pressure Gauge - 
High Pressure 
Hose Method, 
1991  505.3.2  
ASSE 5010 -1015 -4 Field Test 
Procedure for a 
Double Check 
Valve Assembly 
Using a Site 
Tube, 1991  505.3.2  
ASSE 5010 -1020 -1 Field Test 
Procedures for a 
Pressure 
Vacuum Breaker 
Assembly, 1991  505.3.2  
ASSE 5010 -1047 -1 Field Test 
Procedure for a 
Reduced 
Pressure 
Detector 
Assembly Using 
a Differential 
Pressure Gauge, 
1991  505.3.2  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1959 ASSE 5010 -1048 -1 Field Test 
Procedure for a 
Double Check 
Detector 
Assembly Using 
a Duplex Gauge, 
1991  505.3.2  
ASSE 5010 -1048 -2 Field Test 
Procedure for a 
Double Check 
Detector 
Assembly Using 
a Differential 
Pressure Gauge - 
High - and 
Low-Pressure 
Hose Method, 
1991  505.3.2  
ASSE 5010 -1048 -3 Field Test 
Procedure for a 
Double Check 
Detector 
Assembly Using 
a Differential 
Pressure Gauge - 
High -Pressur e 
Hose Method, 
1991  505.3.2  
ASSE 5010 -1048 -4 Field Test 
Procedure for a 
Double Check 
Detector 
Assembly Using 
a Site Tube, 
1991  505.3.2  
CAN/CSA -B64.10 -01 Manual for the 
Selection and 
Installation of 
Backflow 
Prevention 
Devices/Manual 
for the 
Maintenance and 
Field Testing of 
Backflow 
Prevention 
Devices  505.3.2  
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE 
(13VAC5 -63)  
International Code Council, Inc., 500 New Jersey Avenue, 
NW, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001 -2070 
(http://www .iccsafe.org/ ): International Building Code - 2012  2015  Edition  
International Energy Conservation Code - 2012  2015  
Edition  
International Existing Building Code - 2012  2015  Edition  
International Fire Code - 2012  2015  Edition  
International Fuel Gas Code - 2012 2015  Edition  
International Mechanical Code - 2012  2015  Edition  
International Property Maintenance Code - 2012  2015  
Edition  
International Plumbing Code - 2012  2015  Edition  
International Residential Code for One - and Two -Family 
Dwellings  - 2012  2015  Edition  
International Swimming Pool and Spa Code - 2012  2015  
Edition  
International Zoning Code - 2015 Edition  
ICC/ANSI A117.1 -09, Accessible and Usable Buildings 
and Facilities, Approved November 26, 2003  
Air Conditioning Contractors of America, 2800 Shi rlington 
Road, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22206 
(https://www.acca.org/ ):  
Manual J -11, Residential Load Calculation, Eighth Edition  
Manual S-04 S-13, Residential Equipment Selection  
ACI 318-11 318-14, Building Code Req uirements for 
Structural Concrete, American Concrete Institute, 38800 
Country Club Drive, Farmington Hills, MI 48331 
(http://www.concrete.org/ ) 
American Petroleum Institute, 1220 L Street, NW, 
Washington, DC 20005 -4070 ( http://www.api.org/ ): 
API 650 -09, Welded Tanks for Oil Storage, Eleventh 
Edition, June 2007 (Addendum 1, November 2008, 
Addendum 2, November 2009, effective May 1, 2010)  
API 653 -09, Tank Inspection, Repair, Alterati on, and 
Reconstruction  
ANSI LC1/CSA 6.26 -14, Fuel Gas Piping Systems Using 
Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST), American 
National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, Fourth 
Floor, New York, NY 10036  
ASHRAE 193 -2010, Method of Test for Determinin g the 
Airtightness of HVAC Equipment,  [ American Society of 
Heating, Refrigerating and Air -Conditioning Engineers, Inc., 
1791 Tullie Circle, NE, Atlanta, GA 30329 -2305 
(https://www.ashrae.org/ ) 
ASHRAE 62.1 -13, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air 
Quality  ]  Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1960  American Society of Testing Materials International, 100 
Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshocken, PA 
19428 -2959 ( http://www.astm.org/ ):  
ASTM C199 -84(2005)  C199 -84(2011) , Standard Test 
Method for Pier Test for Refractory Mortar  
ASTM C315 -07 C315 -07(2011) , Standard Specification 
for Clay Flue Liners and Chimney Pots  
ASTM C1261 -07 C1261 -10, Standard Specification for 
Firebox Brick for Residential Fireplaces  
ASTM  D1557 -07 D1557 -12, Standard Test Methods for 
Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using 
Modified Effort (56,000 ft -lbf/ft3(2700 kN -m/m3))  
ASTM E84 -2013A,  [ Standard  ] Test Methods for Surface 
Burning Characteristics of Building Materials  
ASTM E 90-90, Standard Test Method for Laboratory 
Measurement of Airborne Sound Transmission Loss of 
Building Partitions  
ASTM E283 -04, Standard Test Method for Determining 
Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Windows, Curtain 
Walls, and Doors Under Specified Pre ssure Differences 
Across the Specimen  
[ ASTM E108 -11, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of 
Roof Coverings  ]  
ASTM E119 -2012A, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests 
of Building Construction and Materials  
ASTM E329 -02, Standard Specification for Agencies 
Engaged in the Testing and/or Inspection of Materials 
Used in Construction  
ASTM F2006 -10, Standard Safety Specification for 
Window Fall Prevention Devices for Nonemergency 
Escape (Egress) and Rescue (Ingress) Windows  
ASTM F2090 -08 F2090 -10, Standard Specification for 
Window Fall Prevention Devices with Emergency Escape 
(Egress) Release Mechanisms  
CAN/CSA -B64.10 -01, Manual for the Selection and 
Installation of Backflow Prevention Devices/Manual for the 
Maintenance and Field Testing of Backf low Prevention 
Devices, June 2003, National Standards of Canada, 5060 
Spectrum Way, Suite 100, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada 
L4W5N6 ( http://www.csa.ca/ ) 
American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Three Park 
Avenue, New York , NY 10016 -5990 
(https://www.asme.org/ ):  
ASME A17.1/CSA B44 -2007 Safety Code for Elevators 
and Escalators  
ASME A17.1/CSA B44 -2010  A17.1/CSA B44 -13, Safety 
Code for Elevators and Escalators  [ ASME A17.3 2008, Safety Code for Existing Elevators 
and Escalators  
ASME A18.1  ] -2011  [ 2008 , Safety Standard for Platform 
Lifts and Stairway Chairlifts  ] 
American Society of Sanitary Engineering, 901 Canterbury 
Road, Suite A, Westlake, OH 44145 ( http://www.asse -
plumbing.org/ ): 
ASSE 1010 -2004, Performance Requirements for Water 
Hammer Arrestors  
ASSE 1022 -03, Performance Requirements for Backflow 
Preventer for Beverage Dispensing Equipment  
ASSE 1024 -04, Performance Requirements for Dua l 
Check Valve Type Backflow Preventers (for Residential 
Supply Service or Individual Outlets)  
ASSE 5010 -1013 -1, Field Test Procedure for a Reduced 
Pressure Principle Assembly Using a Differential Pressure 
Gauge, 1991  
ASSE 5010 -1015 -1, Field Test Procedur e for a Double 
Check Valve Assembly Using a Duplex Gauge, 1991  
ASSE 5010 -1015 -2, Field Test Procedure for a Double 
Check Valve Assembly Using a Differential Pressure 
Gauge - High - and Low -Pressure Hose Method, 1991  
ASSE 5010 -1015 -3, Field Test Procedure f or a Double 
Check Valve Assembly Using a Differential Pressure 
Gauge - High Pressure Hose Method, 1991  
ASSE 5010 -1015 -4, Field Test Procedure for a Double 
Check Valve Assembly Using a Site Tube, 1991  
ASSE 5010 -1020 -1, Field Test Procedures for a Pressure 
Vacuum Breaker Assembly, 1991  
ASSE 5010 -1047 -1, Field Test Procedure for a Reduced 
Pressure Detector Assembly Using a Differential Pressure 
Gauge, 1991  
ASSE 5010 -1048 -1, Field Test Procedure for a Double 
Check Detector Assembly Using a Duplex Gauge, 1991  
ASSE 5010 -1048 -2, Field Test Procedure for a Double 
Check Detector Assembly Using a Differential Pressure 
Gauge - High - and Low -Pressure Hose Method, 1991  
ASSE 5010 -1048 -3, Field Test Procedure for a Double 
Check Detector Assembly Using a Differential Pres sure 
Gauge - High -Pressure Hose Method, 1991  
ASSE 5010 -1048 -4, Field Test Procedure for a Double 
Check Detector Assembly Using a Site Tube, 1991  
[ ASCE/SEI 7 -10, Minimum Design Loads for Buildings 
and Other Structures,  ] American Society of Civil 
Engineer s/Structural Engineering Institute, 1801 Alexander 
Bell Drive, Reston, VA 20191 -4400 
(http://www.asce.org/sei/ ) Regulations  
Volume 34, Issue 18  Virginia Register of Regulations  April 30, 2018  
1961 [ ASCE/SEI 7 -10, Minimum Design Loads for Buildings 
and Other Structures  
ASCE/SEI 41 -13, Seismic Evalua tion and Retrofit of 
Existing Buildings   
American Wood Council, 222 Catocin Circle, Suite 201, 
Leesburg, VA 20175 ( http://www.awc.org/ ): 
AWC NDS -15, National Design Specification for Wood 
Construction -with 2005 Supplement  
AWC STJR -15, Span Table for Joists and Rafters  ]  
National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, 
Quincy, MA 02169 -7471 ( http://www.nfpa.org/ ): 
NFPA 13-10 13-13, Installation of Sprinkler Systems  
NFPA 13R -10 13R-13, Installation of Sprinkler Systems in 
Residential Occupancies Up to and Including Four Stories 
in Height  
NFPA 13D -10, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler 
Systems in One - and Two -Family Dwellings and 
Manufactured Homes  
NFPA 25 -14, Standard for the Inspection, Testing and 
Maintenance of Water -Based Fire Protection Systems  
NFPA 70-11 70-14, National Electrical Code  
[ NFPA 72 - ] 10 [ 13, National Fire Alarm Code  ]  
NFPA 91 -15, Standard for Exhaust Systems for Air 
Conveying of Vapors, Mists and Particulate Solids  
[ NFPA 99 -15, Health Care Facilities Code  
NFPA 101 -15, Life Safety Code  ]  
NFPA 105-10 105-13, Standard for the Installation of 
Smoke Door Assemblies  
NFPA 285-06 285-12, Standard Method of Test for the 
Evaluation of Flammabil ity Characteristics of Exterior 
Nonload -bearing Wall Assemblies Containing 
Combustible Components  
NFPA 495-01 495-13, Explosive Materials Code  
NFPA 701 -10, Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame -
propagation of Textiles and Films  
NFPA 704 -12, Standard Sy stem for the Identification of 
the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response  
NFPA 720-09 720-15, Standard for the Installation of 
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detection and Warning Equipment  
NSF 50 -2009a, Equipment for Swimming Pools, Spas, Hot 
Tubs and Other R ecreational Water Facilities, NSF 
International, 789 Dixboro Road, P.O. Box 130140, Ann 
Arbor, MI 48113 ( http://nsf.org/ )  TFI RMIP -09, Aboveground Storage Tanks Containing 
Liquid Fertilizer, Recommended Mechanical Integrity  
Practices, December 2009, The Fertilizer Institute, 820 First 
Street, NE, Suite 430, Washington, DC 20002  
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, 
Northbrook, IL 60062 ( http://www.ul.com/ ): 
UL 87A -12, Outline  of Investigation for Power -Operated 
Dispensing Devices for Gasoline and Gasoline/ethanol 
Blends with Nominal Ethanol Concentrations up to 85 
Percent  
UL 294 -2010, Access Control System Units (Fifth Edition -
with revisions through September 17, 2010)  
UL 217 -06, Single - and Multiple -station Smoke Alarms -
with revisions through April 2012  
UL 723 -2008, Standard for Test of Surface Burning 
Characteristics of Building Materials -with Revisions 
through September 2010  
UL 762 -2010, Outline of Investigation for Power 
Ventilators for Restaurant Exhaust Appliances  
[ UL 790 -04, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof 
Coverings -with Revisions through October 2008  ]  
UL 1784 -01, Air Leakage Tests of Door Assemblies, 
revised July 2009  
UL 1978 -2010, Grease Ducts  
UL 2034 -2008, Standard for Single and Multiple Station 
Carbon Monoxide Alarms, revised February 2009  
UL 2075 -2013, Gas and Vapor Detectors and Sensors 
(Second Edition, March 5, 2013)  
Interim Remediation Guidance for Homes with Corrosion 
from Problem Drywall, April 2, 2010, Joint Report, 
Consumer Products Safety Com mission and Department of 
Housing and Urban Development  
VA.R. Doc. No. R16 -4664; Filed April 9, 2018, 1:18 p.m.  
Final Regulation  
REGISTRAR'S NOTICE:  The Board of Housing and 
Community Development is claiming an exemption from Article 
2 of the Administrati ve Process Act pursuant to §  2.2-4006 A 12 
of the Code of Virginia, which excludes regulations adopted by 
the Board of Housing and Community Development pursuant to 
the Statewide Fire Prevention Code (§  27-94 et seq.), the 
Industrialized Building Safety La w (§  36-70 et seq.), the 
Uniform Statewide Building Code (§  36-97 et seq.), and §  36-
98.3 of the Code of Virginia, provided the board (i) provides a 
Notice of Intended Regulatory Action in conformance with the 
provisions of §  2.2-4007.01, (ii) publishes th e proposed 
regulation and provides an opportunity for oral and written 
comments as provided in §  2.2-4007.03, and (iii) conducts at