Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1518  NFPA 1126 -11, Standard for the Use of Pyrotechnics 
Before a Proximate Audience  
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, 
Northbrook, IL 60062 ( http://www.ul.com ): 
UL 8 7A-12, Outline of Investigation for Power -Operated 
Dispensing Devices for Gasoline and Gasoline/ethanol 
Blends with Nominal Ethanol Concentrations up to 85 
Percent  
UL 1278 –00, Standard for Movable and Wall - or Ceiling -
Hung Electric Room Heaters, Third Edit ion, June 21, 2000  
UL 1805 -2002, Standard for Laboratory Hoods and 
Cabinets  
VA.R. Doc. No. R16 -4665; Filed January 20, 2017, 2:39 p.m.  
Proposed Regulation  
REGISTRAR'S NOTICE:  The Board of Housing and 
Community Development is claiming 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 Indust rialized 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 with 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 pr oposed regulations.  
Title of Regulation:  13VAC5 -63. Virginia Uniform 
Statewide Building Code  (amending 13VAC5 -63-10 
through 13VAC5 -63-50, 13VAC5 -63-70, 13VAC5 -63-80, 
13VAC5 -63-170, 13VAC5 -63-200, 13VAC5 -63-210, 
13VAC5 -63-220, 13VAC5 -63-230 through 13VAC5 -63-
264, 13VAC5 -63-270 through 13VAC5 -63-330, 13VAC5 -
63-360, 13VAC5 -63-370, 13VAC5 -63-400, 13VAC5 -63-
410, 13VAC5 -63-430, 13VAC5 -63-434, 13VAC5 -63-440, 
13VAC5 -63-450, 13VAC5 -63-470, 13VAC5 -63-480, 
13VAC5 -63-490, 13VAC5 -63-510 through 13VAC5 -63-
540; adding 13VAC5 -63-268, 13VAC5 -63-431, 13VAC5 -
63-432.5, 13VAC5 -63-433, 13VAC5 -63-433.5, 13VAC5 -63-
434.5, 13VAC5 -63-435, 13VAC5 -63-439, 13VAC5 -63-524, 
13VAC5 -63-545, 13VAC5 -63-549; repea ling 13VAC5 -63-
225, 13VAC5 -63-350).  
Statutory Authority:  § 36-98 of the Code of Virginia.  
Public Hearing Information:  
May 15, 2017 - 10 a.m. - Virginia Housing Development 
Authority Virginia Housing Center, 4224 Cox Road, 
Glen Allen, VA 23060  
Public Commen t Deadline:  April 21, 2017.  Agency Contact:  Elizabeth O. Rafferty, Policy and 
Legislative Director, Department of Housing and Community 
Development, Main Street Centre, 600 East Main Street, 
Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23219, telephone (804) 371 -7011, 
FAX (804) 371 -7090, TTY (804) 371 -7089, or email 
elizabeth.rafferty@dhcd.virginia.gov.  
Background:  The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code 
(USBC) governs the construction, maintenance, and 
rehabilitation of new and existing building and structures. 
The USBC uses nationally recognized model building co des 
and standards produced by the International Code Council 
and other standard -writing groups as the basis for the 
technical provisions of the regulation. Every three years, new 
editions of the model codes become available. At that time, 
the Board of Hous ing and Community Development initiates 
a regulatory action to incorporate the newest editions of the 
model codes into the regulation and accepts proposals for 
changes to the regulation from affected client groups and the 
public. The Department of Housing and Community 
Development staff maintains mailing lists for workgroups 
involving different subject areas of regulation and conducts 
workgroup meetings to develop consensus recommendations, 
when possible, concerning submitted proposals. The 
department uses an online program incorporating the 
provisions of the regulation and the model codes and 
standards to facilitate the submittal of proposals. A public 
hearing is held during the workgroup meeting stage of the 
process and a comment period established. Once w orkgroup 
meetings are completed, the board holds a series of meetings 
to consider each proposal, and the approved proposals are 
incorporated into the proposed regulation. After publication 
of the proposed regulation, the board establishes a comment 
period for the acceptance of comments on amendments 
reflected in the proposed regulation, and an additional public 
hearing is held. The board then meets to consider proposals 
and public comments and develops a final regulation to 
complete the regulatory process.  
Summary:  
The proposed regulatory action incorporates the newest 
editions of the nationally recognized model codes, 
produced by the International Code Council (ICC) and 
other standard -writing groups, into the Virginia Uniform 
Statewide Building Code (USBC) . 
The proposed substantive amendments in this regulatory 
action include the following:  
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 added in 
subdivision D 3, as such equipm ent is not part of a 
building and therefore not within the scope of the USBC. Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1519 In subdivision D 6 language is added to clarify that the 
demolition of manufactured homes or industrialized 
buildings is subject to the USBC. The prior edition of the 
code did no t 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 to permit compliance with 
special provis ions 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 comprehensive changes to the USBC and the 
State wide 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 Internati onal 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 amended 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, duplic ate 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 Occupational 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 sprinkler systems if located above the seco nd 
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 b uildings, 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 wood en 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 
independently in the ICC code development pr ocess. 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 barrels or casks is a 
potential fire haza rd 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 Internationa l 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 flexibility in the clustering of homes for zoni ng 
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 construction 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 do ors 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 
tables in the existing regu lation (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 coati ngs 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 su bmitted 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1520  line that was not pressurized yet and gas traveled up the 
water service line and cau sed 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 certain 
hazardous materials inherent in op erations 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 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 -63-230 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 200 9 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 scope 
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 subject to the 
International Energy Cons ervation 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 (quality) southern yellow pine (wood) of a ppropriate 
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, which is not readily available 
by wood dist ributors.  
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 other 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 exceptions for when 
smoke and fire damper s 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 based 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 with coatings to prevent 
lightning arcs f rom 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 t he wording of the 
2005 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 wording permits an additional 
compliance meth od 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 
laboratories when utilizing new or differing amount of 
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 laboratories. The 
language is based on actions a pproved 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 wor k 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 only vertical fire separation 
was address ed. 
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 Par t 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.  
Clarifying proposed changes in this regulatory action 
include amendmen ts to 13VAC5 -63-450 through 13VAC5 -
63-545: Part III of the USBC (13VAC5 -63-450 et seq.) that Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1521 is known as the Virginia Maintenance Code (VMC) and 
sets out provisions requiring existing buildings and 
structures to be maintained in accordance with the codes 
in effect when such buildings and structures were 
constructed. The VMC incorporates the ICC International 
Property Maintenance Code (IPMC). Since its inception, 
the VMC has contained administrative language limiting 
the use of the provisions of the IPMC to only those 
provisions requiring maintenance and disallowing the use 
of any provisions of the IPMC that would require existing 
buildings or structures to be upgraded or retrofitted to 
meet newer code requirements. This arrangement has 
caused confusion among  code enforcing agencies and 
those affected by the code. The department, under direction 
from the Board of Housing and Community Development, 
convened an ad hoc committee of all affected parties and 
organizations to develop a draft of the VMC. The proposed  
amendments remove any provisions of the IPMC requiring 
existing buildings or structures to be upgraded or 
retrofitted; thus eliminating the need to depend upon the 
administrative provisions for the proper application of the 
VMC.  
The proposed changes to t he provisions of the VMC in this 
action are therefore editorial in nature, but fairly 
extensive. The ad hoc committee evaluated every provision 
in the IPMC and where any provision required the 
upgrading or retrofitting of existing buildings, the wording 
of that section was changed to just require maintenance of 
the aspect of construction being addressed by the section, 
since the administrative provisions of the VMC would have 
prevented any such provision from being enforceable. The 
end result is a code in w hich all the provisions left intact 
or modified are fully enforceable without a comparison to 
the administrative provisions to determine whether they 
may be enforced.  
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 i t to be an abbreviation for the 
entire Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code or for a 
different part of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building 
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 th e 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 specifically 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 construction 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 Virgini a 
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 cha pter 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 designate a chapter of 
the Virginia Administrative Code, unless clearly indicated.  
D. Section 101.4 Arrangeme nt 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 t o the text of 
the incorporated chapters of the IBC that are specifically 
identified. The terminology "changes to the text of the 
incorporated chapters of the IBC that are specifically 
identified" shall also be referred to as the "state amendments 
to the IB C." Such state amendments to the IBC are set out 
using corresponding chapter and section numbers of the IBC 
numbering system. In addition, since Chapter 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 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1522  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 indi cates 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 provision.  
4. Notes in the IBC, in the codes and standards referenced 
in the IBC and in the state amendments t o 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 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 - 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 and standards referenced in the 
IBC that address the same subject matter and impose 
differing requirements.  
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  requirements.  
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 th e 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 C hapter 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 st ate 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 requiremen ts 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 Pur pose. 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 be 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, munic ipalities 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, (ii) require the u se 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 th e 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 by a locality pur suant 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1523 C. Section 102.2.1 I nvalidity 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 invalid to the ext ent of such conflict.  
D. Section 102.3 Exemptions. The following are exempt 
from this code:  
1. Equipment, related  wiring, and poles and towers  
supporting the related  structures used for providing wired 
utility, telecommunications, information, or cable 
television service in accordance with all of the following 
conditions:   
1.1. The equipment,  wiring installed , and supporting 
structures are owned and controlled  by a provider of 
publicly regulated utility service or a franchised cable 
television operator and electrical  or its affiliates.   
1.2. The  equipment and related , wiring used for radio, 
broadcast or cable television, telecommunications or 
information service transmission. The exemption shall 
apply only if under applicable federal and state law the 
owne rship and control of the equipment and wiring is by 
the service provider or its affiliates. Such exempt 
equipment and wiring shall be , and supporting structures 
are located on either rights -of-way or property for which 
the service provider has rights of oc cupancy and entry ; 
however, the structures, including their service 
equipment, . 
1.3. Buildings  housing or supporting such  exempt 
equipment and wiring shall be subject to the USBC.  
1.4. The installation of  equipment and, wiring , and 
supporting structures  exempted by this section shall not 
create an unsafe condition prohibited by the USBC.  
2. Electrical equipment, transmission equipment, and 
related wiring used for wireless transmission of radio, 
broadcast, telecommunications, or information service in 
accordance with all of the following conditions:  
2.1. Buildings housing exempt equipment and wiring and 
structures supporting exempt equipment and wiring shall 
be subject to the USBC.  
2.2. The equipment and wiring exempted by this section 
shall not create an u nsafe condition prohibited by the 
USBC.  
2. 3. 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. Electrical equipment connected after the last 
disconnecting means.  2.2. 3.2. Plumbing piping and equipment connected after 
the last shutoff valve or backflow device and before the 
equipment drain trap.  
2.3. 3.3. 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 provisions regulating the 
hazardous materials.  
3. 4. Parking lots and sidewalks that are not part of an 
accessible route.  
4. 5. Nonmechanized playground or rec reational equipment 
such as swing sets, sliding boards, climbing bars, jungle 
gyms, skateboard 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. Industrialized build ings 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. 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 su ch 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. Federally owned buildings 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. Off-site manufactured intermodal freight containers, 
moving containers, and storage containers placed on site 
temporarily or permanently for use as a storage container.  
9. 10. 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 structur es, and the equipment 
therein.  
B. 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 effective date of 
the 2012  2015  edition of the code shall comply  with the 
provisions of this code, except for permit applications Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1524  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 w hether 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 subsequent amendments to this code based on the effective 
date of such a mendments. 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 construction of such a 
building or structure, provided the permit ha s 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, ventilati on 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 made to the local building department for a new 
certificate of occup ancy 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 applicati on 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 chang e 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 hazardous 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 
compliance with change of occupancy requirements to permit 
the increased amounts of h azardous materials stipulated 
without the laboratories being classified as Group H.  
E. Section 103.4 Additions. Additions to buildings and 
structures shall comply with the requirements 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 shall 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 be 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 Section 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 r elating 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 permi t 
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 provisio ns for structural 
loading capacity, connections and structural attachment. 
This requirement excludes the configuration and height of 
handrails and guardrails.  
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, f ree of any 
obstruction or blockages, defects, or deterioration, and are Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1525 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 
requiremen ts 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 than Group R -5 shall comply with the 
VRC  VEBC .  
H. I. Section 103.7 R etrofit 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 sys tem 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. Section 103.8 Nonrequired equipment. The following 
criteria for nonrequired eq uipment 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 USBC in effect at the 
time a building was constructed wit hout meeting current 
requirements of the code, provided the installation does not 
create a hazardous condition. Permits for installation shall be 
obtained in accordance with this code. In addition, as a 
requirement of this code, when such nonrequired equip ment 
is to be installed, the building official shall notify the 
appropriate fire official or fire chief.  
J. K. Section 103.8.1 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. Approv al of the 
proposed method of reduction or discontinuance shall be 
obtained from the building official.  
K. L. Section 103.9 Use of certain provisions of referenced 
codes. The following provisions of the IBC and of other 
indicated codes or standards are to be considered 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 requireme nts for the 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 co nstruction 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. Section 103.10 Functional design. The followin g 
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 cove red 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, that build ings 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 from the a ppropriate 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 building 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. Section 103.11 Amusement de vices and inspections. 
In accordance with §  36-98.3 of the Code of 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 amusement 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 under the VCS.  
N. O. Sectio n 103.12 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 struct ures, 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1526  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 s uch construction 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 G eneral 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 shall 
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 department 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 th e local 
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 
Department of General Ser vices, 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 provis ion 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 Code 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 
consultation 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 Transportation 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 systems in roadway tu nnels and bridges to the State 
Fire Marshal.  
O. P. Section 103.12.1 Certification of state enforcement 
personnel. State enforcement personnel shall comply with the 
applicable requirements of Section 105 for certification , 
periodic maintenance training, an d 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 wit h the local governing 
body of another county or municipality or with some other 
agency, or a state agency approved by DHCD for such 
enforcement. For the purposes of this section, towns with a 
population of less than 3,500 may elect to administer and 
enforc e 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 two or more counties, 
those counties s hall 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 
building department shall enforce such pr ovisions.  
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 structure, or the owner, 
occupant, or  tenant of any nearby building or structure, and Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1527 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 access to the subject 
building or struct ure, 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 county wherein the inspection was made.  The local 
building official or his agent shall make a reasonable effort to 
obtain consent from the owner, occu pant, 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 co nveyances, 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 an y 
inspection functions under this code are assigned to a local 
agency other than the local building department, 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 official as the 
executive official in charge of the department. The building 
official shall be appointed in a manner selected by the local 
governing b ody. 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 notif ied by the appointing authority 
within 30 days of the appointment or release of a permanent 
or acting building 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 engineer 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 least three years 
in responsible charge of work. Any combination of education 
and experience that would confer equivalent knowledge and ability shall b e deemed to satisfy this requirement. The 
building official shall have general knowledge of sound 
engineering 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 general 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 official 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. Exce pt for 
a building official exempt from certification under the 
exception to Section 105.1.2, any acting or permanent 
building official who is not certified as a building official in 
accordance with the VCS shall attend the core module of the 
Virginia Build ing 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 
105.1.2.  
E. Section 105.1.4 Requireme nts for periodic maintenance 
and continuing education. Building officials shall attend 
periodic maintenance training as designated by DHCD. In 
addition to the periodic maintenance training required above, 
building officials shall attend 16 hours of continu ing 
education every two years as approved by DHCD. If a 
building official 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.  
F. E. Section 105.2 Technical assistants. The building 
official, subject to any limitations imposed by the locality, 
shall be permitted to utilize technical assistants to assist the 
building offi cial in the enforcement of the USBC. DHCD 
shall be notified by the building official within 60 days of the 
employment of, contracting with or termination of all 
technical assistants.  
Note: Technical assistants are subject to sanctions in 
accordance with t he 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, fire or 
housing inspec tions; plumbing, electrical or mechanical 
trades; or fire protection, elevator or property maintenance Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1528  work. Any combination of education and experience that 
would confer equivalent knowledge and ability shall be 
deemed to satisfy this requirement. The loc ality 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 re quired by local policy 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 technical assistant in place prior to March 1, 
1988, shall not b e required to meet the certification 
requirements in this section 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 mo re 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 Confl ict 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 Vi rginia.  
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 Library of 
Virginia's Gene ral 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 US BC.  
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 building 
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 shall only be charged u nder 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 charged 
for permits i ssued 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.  
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, except that applicati ons 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 
pending the receipt of a n 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 component, (iii) the rep air 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 Section 103.3.  
3. Moveme nt 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 contain ing 
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 inspe ctions 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1529 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) , except when any such installations 
are located in a plenum , penetrate fire rated 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 safety 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 simil ar uses, provided the 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 entra nce, provided such tents 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 wall s supporting less than 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 capac ity in the same location 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  
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. Replacement 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, dimmer 
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 ap pliances 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 buil ding 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. Replacement of 100 square feet (9.29 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 form  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 ceiling  finishes in other 
groups.  
14.9. Installation or replacement of cabinetry or trim.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1530  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 speci al inspections.  
16. Billboard safety upgrades to add or replace steel 
catwalks, steel ladders, or steel safety cable.  
Exception: Application for a permit may be required by the 
building official for the installation of replacement siding, 
roofing and windo ws in buildings within a historic district 
designated by a locality pursuant to § 15.2 -2306 of the Code 
of Virginia.  
C. Section 108.3 Applicant information, processing by mail. 
Application for a permit shall be made by the owner or lessee 
of the relevant p roperty 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 corpor ate 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 m ail, unless the 
permit applicant voluntarily chooses otherwise. 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 t his section is obtained.  
D. Section 108.4 Prerequisites to obtaining 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 p roof 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 wi th §  36-98.01 of the Code of Virginia, a 
building permit issued for any one -family or two -family 
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 Designat ed." 
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 
applica tion for a permit shall be submitted on a form or forms 
supplied 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 offi cial.  
G. Section 108.7 Amendments to application. An 
application 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 pro posed 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 tim e if a 
justifiable cause is demonstrated.  
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 
buildin gs or structures. Such permits shall be limited as to 
time of service, but shall not be permitted for more than one 
year, except that upon the permit holder's written request, the 
building official may grant one or more extensions of time, 
not to exceed on e year per extension. The building official is 
authorized to terminate the approval and order the demolition 
or removal 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 modifications for temporary uses, 
including hypothermia and hyperthermia shelters, that may be 
necessary as long as the use meets the spirit an d 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 not ify the appropriate fire official or 
fire chief of the approved temporary use.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1531 C. Section 117.2 Moved buildings and structures. Any 
building or structure moved into a locality or moved to a new 
location within a locality shall not be occupied or used unti l a 
certification  certificate  of occupancy is issued for the new 
location. Such moved buildings or structures shall be required 
to comply with the requirements of this code for a newly 
constructed building or structure unless meeting all of the 
following r equirements 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.  
4. Any alteratio ns, reconstruction, renovations or repairs 
made pursuant to the move are in compliance with 
applicable requirements 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 
build ing or structure, the owner or the owner's agent shall 
provide certification to the building official that all service 
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 lots and any other lots that may be affected by the 
temporary removal of utility wires or the temporary 
disconnection or termination of other ser vices or facilities 
relative to the demolition. In addition, the requirements of 
Chapter 33 of the IBC for any necessary retaining walls or 
fences during demolition shall be applicable and when a 
building or structure is demolished or removed, the 
establis hed grades shall be restored.  
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 materials, 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, heretofo re or hereafter enacted or adopted 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 buildings 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 b uilding or structure.  
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 
chang e 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 
particu late 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 dec ibel 
penalty applied to noise 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 comm unications, signal booster, bi -
directional amplifiers, radiating cable systems, or internal 
multiple antenna, or a combination of the foregoing.  
Emergency public safety personnel. Emergency public 
safety personnel includes firefighters, emergency medical 
personnel, law -enforcement officers, 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 emergenci es, violent crimes, and terrorist 
attacks.  
Equipment. Plumbing, heating, electrical, ventilating, air -
conditioning and refrigeration equipment, elevators, 
dumbwaiters, escalators, and other mechanical additions or 
installations.  
Farm building or structur e. A building or structure not 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1532  3. Business or office uses relating to the farm opera tions.  
4. Use of farm machinery 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 ope rations.  
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 se rvices 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, subject 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 a ppeals.  
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 administration, 
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 c ity, 
county 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 paddleboats or rowboats, and 
provides, through sale, rental, fee, or on a free basis, any 
equipm ent, 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 with 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 forms of entertainment; serves alcoholic 
beverages; and provides music and space for danci ng.  
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, inc luding 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 hours.  
Skirting. A weather -resistant material used to enclose the 
space from the bottom of t he manufactured home to grade.  
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 mooring 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 Health and 
Developmental Services, the Virginia Department of 
Education or the Virginia De partment of Juvenile Justice.  
State Review Board. The Virginia State Building Code 
Technical Review Board as established under §  36-108 of 
the Code of Virginia.  
Teaching and research laboratory. A building or portion of 
a building where hazardous materia ls are stored, used, and 
handled for the purpose of testing, analysis, teaching, 
research, or developmental activities on a nonproduction 
basis rather than in a manufacturing process.  
Technical assistant. Any person employed by or under an 
extended contrac t to a local building department or local 
enforcing agency for enforcing the USBC, including but 
not limited to inspectors and plans reviewers. For the Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1533 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 f ire origin, to a level that is not life 
threatening and permits the rescue of occupants for a 
limited time.  
Unsafe building or structure. 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 found ation that partial or complete collapse is 
likely, or any unfinished construction that does not have a 
valid permit, or the permit has been revoked, and the 
condition of the unfinished construction presents an 
immediate serious and imminent threat to the l ife and 
safety of the occupants or the public.  
VADR. The Virginia Amusement Device Regulations 
(13VAC5 -31).  
VCS. The Virginia Certification 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 occupant 
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 outpatient surgical hospitals.  
Automatic fire -extinguishing system. An approved system 
of devices and equipment that automatically de tects 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 though followed by the words "or 
part or parts thereof" unless the context clearly requires a 
different meaning. "Building" sh all 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 por tion 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 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.  
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.  
Custodial care. Assi stance 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 resp ond 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 th at provides custodial care but 
does not provide medical care.  
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 provisions 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.  
Owner. The owner or owners of the freehold of the 
premises or lesser estate therein, a mortgagee or vendee in 
possession, assignee of rents, receiver, executor, trustee or 
lessee in control of a building or structure.  
Regist ered Design Professional (RDP). An architect or 
professional engineer, licensed to practice architecture or 
engineering, as defined under § 54.1 -400 of the Code of 
Virginia.  
Substantial damage. For the purpose of determining 
compliance with the flood prov isions of this code, damage 
of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost of 
restoring the structure to its before -damaged condition 
would equal or exceed 50% of the market value of the 
structure before the damage occurred.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1534  Substantial improvemen t. 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 o f 
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 substantial damage, any improvements are 
considered substantial improv ements regardless of the 
actual improvement performed. The term does not, 
however, include either:  
1. Any project for improvement of a building or a 
structure or portion thereof required to correct existing 
health, sanitary, or safety code violations ident ified 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.  
Swimming pool. An aquatic vessel  A pool or spa  as 
defined in the International 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 natur e 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 standards approved 
by the Virginia Commonwealth Transportation Board.  
C. Delete the following definitions from Section 202 of the 
IBC:  
Agricultural, building  
Exist ing structure (For Chapter 34)  
Approved  
Historic buildings  
13VAC5 -63-210. Chapter 3 Use and 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 Assembly Group A -5. Assembly uses intended for 
participation in or viewing outdoor activities including, but 
not limited to:  
Amusement park structures  
Bleachers  
Grandstan ds  
Stadiums  
Swimming pools  
C. Add Section 304.1.1 to the IBC to read:  
304.1.1 Day support 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 
conditions 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 by 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 Section 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 prime rs 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 a nd wines in wooden 
barrels and casks. Distillation, blending, bottling, and other 
hazardous materials storage or processing shall be in 
separate control areas complying with Section 414.2.  
 
 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1535 C. E. Change the "Consumer fireworks" row in an d "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 
smokeless powder shall not be performed inside the 
building. Damaged containers shall not be repackaged 
inside the building and shall be immediat ely 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 packagi ng 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 manufact ured 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 con sumption 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. Chan ge 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1536  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.  
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1537 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 
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:  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1538  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 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 facilities.  
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 evacuation.  
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 co nsidered to be references to this section.  
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1539 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.  
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:  
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) t hickness, 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 
provided with mechanical ventilation in accorda nce 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 expressed or implied to 
furnish heat to the oc cupants 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 other 
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 Section R306.5 to read:  
R306.5 Water supply sou rces 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  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 Department of 
Environmental Qua lity.  
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 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1540  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 opening and is 
provided with a bulkhead enclosure, the bulkhead 
enclosure shall comply with Section R310.3. The net 
clear opening dimensi ons required by this section shall 
be obtained by the normal operation of the emergency 
escape and rescue opening from the inside, except that 
tilt-out or removable sash designed windows shall be 
permitted to be used. Emergency escape and rescue 
openings w ith a finished height below the adjacent 
ground elevation shall be provided with a window well in 
accordance with Section 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 e xceeding total 
floor area of 200 square feet (18.58 m2).  
13. 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 normal 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 (610 mm), and 
the net clear width shall be not less than 20 inches (508 
mm).  
Exception: Grade floor or below grade  openings shall 
have a 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 a re provided 
on that same level. Any doors or cased openings along 
such interior passage route providing 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. Pantry 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  more 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 mm ). 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 
unde rside 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 hei ght 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 between  the vertical planes of the 
foremost projection of adjacent treads and at a right angle 
to the tread's leading edge. The greatest tread depth 
within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by 
more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm).  
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 read:  
R312.2. 1 Window sills. In dwelling units, where the 
opening  top of the sill  of an operable window opening  is Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1541 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 
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 openings that allo w 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 no t 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 sprinkler systems. 
Notwithstanding the requirements of Section 103.8, 
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 automatic residential fire sprink ler 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. Notwiths tanding the requirements 
of Section 103.8, 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.   
314.2 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 for 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 detector and audible notifica tion 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 Alarm 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. Combination 
carbon monoxide and smoke alarms sh all be listed in 
accordance with UL 2034 and UL 217.  
23. Change Section R315.2 to read:  
R315.2 Where required. Carbon monoxide alarms shall 
be provided in accordance with this section.  
24. Delete Section R315.2.2.  
25. Delete Section R315.5.  
26. Change Sect ion 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 Exception 3 to Section R317.1.4 to read:  
3. Deck posts supported by concrete p iers 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. Add Section R320.2 to read:  
R320.2 Universal design features for accessibility in 
dwellings. Dwellings construct ed 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 universal 
design features for accessibility.  
27. 28. Add Section R324  R327  Radon -Resistant 
Construction.  
28. 29. 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 h igh radon 
potential, as indicated by Zone 1 on the U.S. EPA Map of 
Radon Zones (IRC Figure AF101), such locality shall 
enforce the provisions contained in Appendix F.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1542  Exception: Buildings or portions thereof with crawl 
space foundations which are ventilat ed to the exterior, 
shall not be required 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 de fined in 
the USBC, shall comply with the applicable provisions of 
the ISPSC.  
31. 30. Add Section R326  R328  Patio Covers.  
32. 31. Add Section 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. Add Section R327  R329  Sound Transmission.  
34. 33. 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. Add Section R327.2  R329.2  to read:  
R327.2  R329.2  Airport noise attenuation. This sect ion 
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 zones when enforc ed 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. Add Section R328  R330  Fire Extinguishers.  
37. 36. 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 kitchen 
area.  
37. Add Section R331 Interior Passage.  
38. 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 door 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. On e interior passage 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 leas t 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 least 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 shall 
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. Change Sec tion 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 
from foundation  walls. 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. Add the following exceptions to  Section 
R403.1 to rea d:  
403.1 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 Sect ion 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 structu res 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  the finished floor level to 
grade does not exceed 18 inches.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1543 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 suitable for ground contact 
use.  
1.4. The structure is anchor ed 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 w alls 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 entrance is no more than 30 inches (762 mm) 
above grade.  
 
41. Change the indicated 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 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1544  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.  
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)  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1545 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.  
41. 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 vap or 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 required 
openings need to be within three feet (915 mm) of each corner provided there is cross ventilation of the space.  
40. 42. Add Section R408.3.1 to read as follows and delete Section R501.3 in its entirety:  
R408.3.1 Termite inspection. Where an unvented crawl space is installed and meets the criteria in Section R408, the 
vertica l 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 covering. 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 sealed.  
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 ex cept for construction joints which may be sealed.  
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1546  Exception: Fiberglass or similar insulation may be installed if easily removable.  
49. 43. Change Section R506.2.1 to read:  
R506.2.1 Fill. Fill material shall be free of vegetation and foreign material an d shall be natural nonorganic material that is 
not susceptible to swelling when exposed to moisture. The fill shall be compacted to assure uniform support of the slab, 
and except 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 and approved by the building official.  
50. 44. 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 struc ture and designed for both vertical and lateral loads. Such attachment shall not be accomplished by the use of 
toenails or nails subject 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 canti levered portion of the deck.  
52. Add Sections R507.4 through R507.8 to read:  
R507.4 Decking. Maximum allowable spacing for wood joists supporting decking shall be in accordance with Table 
R507.4. Wood decking shall be attached to each supporting member w ith 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.  
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 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1547 Editor's Note:  Figures R507.5, R507.6, R507.7.1, R507.8.1, and R602.3(2) in this section shown below this note are being 
deleted in the proposed action.  
 
  
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 = 40 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 with no incising factor.  
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1548  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 than 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.  
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 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1549 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 o r equal to depth of joists with a flush beam condition.  
f. Includes incising factor.  
g. Northern 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 entire width of the beam. Joist framing i nto the side 
of a ledger board or beam shall be supported by approved joist hangers. Joists bearing on a beam shall be attached to the bea m to resist 
lateral displacement.  
R507.7.1 Deck beam to deck post. Deck beams shall be attached to deck posts in acco rdance 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 sizes. 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.  
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.  
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1550   
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 interi or nonload -bearing walls.  
2. Where snow loads are less than or equal to 25 pounds per square foot (1.198 kPa), and the 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 spaced 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.  
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1551 54. Delete Table R602.3.1.  
55. Change Figure R602.3(2) to read:  
 
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1552  45. Change Table R602.7.1(1) to read:  
 
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1553  
 
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Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1554   
 
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1555  
 
 
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Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1556   
 
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Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1557  
 
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1558  46. 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 
Girders 
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 shown, spans are permitted to be interpola ted. 
d. NJ - Number of jack studs required to support each end. Where the number of re quired 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.  
e. Spans are calculated assuming the top of the header or girder is laterally braced by perpendicul ar 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1559 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 eac h 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. 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 bracing 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 construction documents as described in this section and provide associated analysis. The building official shall be 
permitt ed 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 dimensio n 
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 Table R702.3.5 for interior gypsum board. Spacing of fasteners at panel edges shall not exceed eight inches (203  
mm).  
d. Met hod 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 methods. 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 Categ ory 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 S eismic Design Categories A and B, and detached dwellings in Seismic Design Category C, mixing of intermittent 
bracing methods along the interior portion of a braced wall line with continuous sheathing methods along the exterior 
portion of the same braced w all 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 shea thed 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 practi ce.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1560  63. Change Item 3 of 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 panel s 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 method 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 le ngth 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.  
65. 48. Replace Section R602.12, including all subsections, with the following:  
R602.12 Practical wall bracing. All buil dings 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, d oes 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 b e 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 waive the analysis of the upper floors whe re 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 permitted for use as sheathing for wall brac ing. 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 thickness 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 Ta ble 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 length.  
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 permitt ed 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 shall 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 sheathi ng 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1561 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 
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 a nd 
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 
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1562  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 
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 (2 438 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 inc hes (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 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1563  
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 wal l 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 shal l 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 where s kewed 
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 fra med 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 cripple walls having a height great er 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 basements shall comply with Item 4 o f 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).  
3. Segments of exterior walls greater than 8 feet (2438 mm) in length shall have a minimum of one brac ed wall panel.  
4. Segments of exterior wall 8 feet (2438 mm) or less in length shall be permitted to have no braced wall panels.  
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1564   
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.  
66. Change the indicat ed rows of Table R802.4(1) to read:  
Ceiling Joist 
Spacing (inches)  Species and Grade  Dead Load = 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 
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1565 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 
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 
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1566  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 
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1567 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 
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 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1568  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 
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1569 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 
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1570  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 
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1571 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 
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 
  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1572  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 equipm ent is located in 
attics.  
77. 49. Delete Section R905.2.8.5.  
78. 50. Change Section R1001.8 to read:  
R1001.8 Smoke chamber. Smoke chamber walls shall be 
constructed of solid masonry units, hollow masonry units 
grouted solid, stone, or concrete. The tota l 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 parged smooth. When a lining of 
firebrick at least 2 in ches (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.  
79. 51. Delete Section N1101.16  N1101.14  (R401.3).  
80. 52. Change the ceiling R -value and wood frame wall 
R-value categ ories 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. 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  82. 54. 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 requirement 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 min imum 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 rigid insulatio n.  
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 lo ose 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. 
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 (R4 02.4.1.1) 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 applicable to the meth od of 
construction. Where required by the code official, an 
approved third party shall inspect all components and 
verify compliance.  
84. 56. 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1573 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 
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/tub on 
exterior wallc Exterior walls adjacent to showers 
and tubs sh all 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 entrapment of moisture in the stu d cavity.  
  
Component  Air Barrier 
Criteria  Insulation 
Installation 
Criteria b 
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. 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 comply 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). Where required by 
the building official, testing shall be co nducted 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 buildin g 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 ai r, 
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 v entilators 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, inde pendent 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1574  86. Change Section N1103.1.1 (R403.1.1) to read:  
N1103.1.1 (R403.1.1) Programmable thermostat. The 
thermostat controlling the primary hea ting 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 b ack 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 n o 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, air 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 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  2. For ducts having 
a static pressures  pressur e of less than 2 inches of water 
column (500 Pa) pressure classification shall not require , 
additional closure systems shall not be required for 
continuously welded joints and seams and locking -type 
joints and seams of other than the snap -lock and button -
lock types .  
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 th e 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/mi n) 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 
contractors. 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 acceptable 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 designation 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 rea d:  
N1103.4.2 (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.  
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. Change Section N1103.6 (R403.6)  N1103.7 
(R403.7)  to read:   
N1103.6 (R403.6)  N1103.7 (R403.7)  Equipment and 
appliance sizing. Heating and cooling equipment and Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1575 appliances shall be sized in accordance with ACCA 
Manual S or other approved sizing methodologies based 
on building loads calculated in accordance with AC CA 
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 appliance utilizes multi -
stage technology or variable refrigerant flow technology 
and the loads calculated in accordance with the approved 
heating and cooling methodology fall wit hin the range of 
the manufacturer'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.  
94. Change Section N1104.1 (R404.1) to read:  
N110 4.1 (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 
Componen t 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 ref erence 
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 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 lea kage rate 
and shall be as 
proposed.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1576  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 l oads 
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" provisi ons of 2001 ASHRAE Handbook of 
Fundamentals, page 26.19 for intermittent mechanical 
ventilation.  
63. Delete Section N1109.1.1.1 (R503.1.1.1).  
96. 64. 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. Add Section M1501.2 to read:  
M1501.2 Transfer air. Air transferred f rom 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 opening s. 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 are a and 
metal louvers and grilles will have 75% free area.  66. 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 exte nd 
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. Change Section M1503.4 and add Section 
M1503.4.1  to read:  
M1503.4 Makeup air r equired. 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 exhaust s ystems capable of 
exhausting not greater than 600 cubic feet per minute 
(0.28 m3/s) provided that one of the following conditions 
is met:  
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 space -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 ope nings 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. 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 dep artment, 
persons performing such changes or installations shall Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1577 certify to the building official that the requirements of 
Items 1 and 2 of this section are met.  
69. Change Sections G2411.1 and G2411.1.1 to read:  
G2411.1 Pipe and tubing. Each above -group p ortion 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 th e 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. 
Whe re 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 syste ms 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 the 
electrical service grounding electrode system or, where 
provided, the light ning protection electrode system and 
shall comply with Sections G2411.1.1.1 through 
G2411.1.1.5.  
100. 70. 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 e xisting 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, fr ee 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 requirement s of 
Items 1 and 2 of this section are met.  
71. 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. 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 trays 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 pr ovisions of Sections P2909,  P2910, 
and P2911 , and P2912 .  
102. 73. 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 wa ter 
supply and a public or private sewer system. As provided 
for in Section 103.10 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 t he Virginia 
Department of Health 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.  
74. Ad d Section P2602.3 to read:  
P2602.3 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 u tilized. 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 inter sects 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. Add Section P29 01.1.1 to read:  
P2901.1.1 Nonpotable fixtures 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. Change Sect ion P2903.5 to read:  
P2903.5 Water 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 otherwi se approved. Water hammer arrestors shall 
be installed in accordance with manufacturer's Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1578  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 
insta lled in the same trench as the sewer 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 te rminate above 
grade in an accessible 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 provisions of 
Sections P2909 and 2911.  
107. Add Section P2909 Nonpotable Water Systems.  
108. Add  77. 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 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 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 sh all be potable and be protected 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 o f 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 pea k demand in 
accordance 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, o pen ended pipes, and faucets shall 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 i ndelibly 
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 backgroun d 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 Note:  Figure P2909.4 is being deleted , and Figure 
P2910.4 is being added in the proposed action.  
 
  
  
P2909.5  P291 0.5 Potable water supply system 
connections. Where a potable water supply system is 
connected to a nonpotable water system, the potable 
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1579 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 
applicable 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  compatible 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 tanks 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 
storag e 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 specificall y 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.  P2909.10.5  P2910.10. 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.  
P2909.10.5.1  P2910.10.5.1  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 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 designed 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 surface 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 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 outl et 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 p rovisions 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1580  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. 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." 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 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 ap plied.  
P2909.10.11  P2910.10.11  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 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.  
3. Following a successful test 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 sh all 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 wat er testing as 
recommended 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 
nonpot able 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) 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  separation 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 wa ter pipe and 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 comp ly 
with the 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 centerlin e 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1581 pipe provided that the potable water service pipe is 
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 P3002.1(2).  
P2909.12  P2910.12  Outdoor outlet access. Sillcocks, 
hose bibs , wall hydrants, 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 d rainage and 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 pi ping 
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. Add Sections P2910.15 through P2910.18, including 
subsections, to read:  
P2909.15  P2910.15  Water -pressure reducing valve or 
regulator. Where the wat er 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  through 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.  
P2909.16.3  P2910.16.3  Labeling and marking. 
Distribution piping labeling and marking shall comply 
with Section P2901.1.  P290 9.16.4  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 
Sections P290 9.17.1  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 provisions of Se ction 
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 
accordance 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 vermin 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 maintenance 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 accessi ble location.  
109. Add  79. Change the title of  Section P2910  P2911 to 
"Gray Water Nonpotable Water Systems. "  
110. Add  80. Change  Sections P2910.1  P2911.1  through 
P2910.6  P2911.6 , including subsections, to read:  
P2910.1  P2911.1  Gray water nonpotable wate r 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 buildings. 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 t he 
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 except as permitted by the Virginia Department 
of Health.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1582  P2910.2  P2911.2  Water quality. Each application of gray 
water reuse shall meet the minimum water quality 
requirements set forth in Se ctions P2910.2.1  P2911.2.1  
through P2910.2.4  P2911.2.4  unless otherwise 
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 intended 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 downstream 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 applicat ions 
shall be filtered by a 100 micron or finer filter.  
P2910.3  P2911.3  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 .  
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 Table P2910.5.1  P2911.5.1  
Location of Nonpotable Gray Water Reuse Storage 
Tanks  
Element  Minimum Horizontal 
Distance from Storage 
Tank (feet)  
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 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 valves sh all be provided 
with access for operation and maintenance. Two shutoff 
valves shall 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 unwan ted 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 va lves 
shall be constructed and installed in accordance with 
Section P3008.  
111. Add  81. Change the title of  Section P2911  P2912 to 
"Rainwater Nonpotable Water Systems. "  
112. Add  82. Change  Sections P2911.1  P2912.1  through 
P2911.10  P2912.10 , including subs ections, to read:  
P2911.1  P2912.1  General. The provisions of this section 
shall govern the design, construction, installation, 
alteration, and repair of rainwater nonpotable water 
systems for the collection, storage, treatment, and 
distribution of rainwat er for nonpotable applications.  
P2911.2  P2912.2  Water quality. Each 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 intended 
use or reuse application for nonpotable water requires 
disinfection or other treatment or both, it shall be Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1583 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 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.  
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 shall 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 sha ll 
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 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 rainwater collection 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 sanita ry 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 n ot permit 
materials larger than 0.015 inches (0.4  mm).  
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.  Joints 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 thei r 
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 othe r 
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 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 valves 
shall be constructed and installed in accordance with 
Section P3008.  
P2911.10  P2912.10  Tests and inspections. Tests and 
inspections shall be pe rformed 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 su rface diversion test. 
A collection surface diversion test shall be performed by 
introducing water into the gutters or onto the collection Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1584  surface area. Diversion of the first quantity of water in 
accordance with the requirements of Section P2911.4  
P2912.4  shall be verified.  
83. Delete Sections P2912.11 through P2912.16.  
84. Delete Section P2913 in its entirety.  
85. Add Section P3002.2.2 to read:  
P3002.2.2 Tracer wire. Nonmetallic sanitary sewer 
piping that discharges to public systems shall be 
locatable. A n 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 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 accessible location that is resistant to physical 
damage, such as with a cle anout or at the building wall.  
86. 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. 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 appro ved:  
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.  
3. At least one receptacle outlet on a ground faul t 
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 unl ess the interior is dry and 
protected from the weather.  
114. 88. 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 or more 
cond uctors 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 hole s 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 provid ed 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. Change Sec tion 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 combination 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 branch/feeder -type AFC I 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 shall 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 
interrupter installed at the f irst 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 interrupter.  
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 branch 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 
overcurrent protective devic e 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 branch -circuit wiring 
from the branch -circuit overcurrent device to the first Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1585 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 indicate that it is the fi rst 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. Where metal outlet bo xes 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 branch -
circuit overcurr ent 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 M C 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 first outlet shall be c onsidered as 
providing protection for the remaining portion of the 
branch circuit.  
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. 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 bu ilding 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 adjacent 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 unlock the 
switch or other device or each door provided with the 
locking device.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1586  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 care, emerg ency 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. Short -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 story occ upied 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 Smoke cont rol. 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.  
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 Compli ance. 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 origin.  
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 f ollowing 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 fit tings, 
swivels, flexible connectors or dispenser emergency 
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. Dispense rs 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 following 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1587 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.  
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 wi th Section 
903.2.6. Quick response or residential automatic 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 Manufa ctured 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 ho mes. 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, includin g but not limited to 
requirements for permits, inspections, certificates of 
occupancy and requiring compliance, are applicable to the 
installation and set -up of a manufactured home. Where the 
installation or erection of a manufactured home utilizes 
compone nts 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 the 
building official has agreed to an al ternative 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 manufactured homes. 
Installation, set -up, and site work for relocated 
manufactured homes shall comply with the provisions of 
this code and s hall include the option of using the 
manufacturer's installations instructions or the federal 
Model Manufactured Home Installation 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 when 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).  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1588  R. O. Add Section 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 
installed. For the purpose of this code, Wind Zone II of the 
federal regulation shall include the cities of Chesapeake, 
Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach.  
S. P. Add Section 425.4  427.4  to the IBC to read:  
425.4  427.4  Skirting requirements for manufa ctured 
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 relocate d 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 
necess ary 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 connections 
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 t o 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 installation 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 bu ildings. 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 manufacturer'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 this 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, un less the 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 f oundation, 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 p rior 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 submissi on of plans 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 indus trialized 
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 
nonconflic ting requirements 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 constr ucted welded steel 
ALFSTs shall comply with API 650 and TFI RMIP, as Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1589 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 liq uid fertilizer and shall be constructed of 
materials that are resistant to corrosion, puncture or 
cracking. In addition, newly constructed ALFSTs 
constructed of materials other than welded steel shall 
comply with TFI RMIP, as applicable. For the purposes o f 
this code, 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 shall 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, 
groundwater or adjacent land before cleanup occurs shall 
be provided. The seconda ry 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 approved 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 provisions of API 653 and 
TFI RMIP.  
426.5  428.5  Inspection. Applicable inspecti ons 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 
occupancy to use a tank as an ALFST. When required by 
API 653 or TFI RMIP, s uch 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 Sectio n 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 all 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 restrained or detained occupant load in 
short -term holding areas per buildin g 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 12,00 0 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 complyin g 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 laboratories in 
educational occupancies above the 12th grade complying 
with the re quirements 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 section, such laboratories shall comply 
with all applicable provisions of t his 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 e xceptions 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 from other portions of the building in 
accordance with the most restricti ve 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. Where 
individual laboratories within a laboratory suite are 
separated fro m each other, the separation shall consist of 
one-hour fire barriers.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1590  Exception: Where an individual laboratory suite occupies 
more than one story, the fire resistance rating of 
intermediate floors contained within the laboratory suite 
shall comply with th e 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 laboratory suite and 
the construction supporting the floor of the labora tory 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 ac cordance 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 laborato ry 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 th e 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 90 3.3.1.1.  
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. The building shall be equipped throughout with an 
automatic fire alarm syst em 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 suite 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 
Hoursb 
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 414.2 without the 
laboratories being classified as Group H. The percen tage 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 with 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 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1591 Table 430.4(1)  
Design and Number of Control Areas in 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 
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 
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 necess ary 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 Number 
of 
Control 
Areas 
per Floor  Fire-
Resistance 
Rating for 
Fire 
Barriers per 
Control 
Areaa 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 separation 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 resistanc e 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 accordance 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 
system in accordance 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 
accordan ce 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 buildings 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 plane or 
located in a floor level below grade plane.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1592  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 throughout with an 
automatic sprinkler system in accordance wi th 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 oxidizers.  
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 shall 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 throughout with an approved 
automatic sprinkler system in accord ance 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 ac cordance 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 for maximum 
building height is increased by 20 feet (6096 m m) 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 building heights shall not be permitted for the 
following con ditions:  
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.  
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1593 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 r equired 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 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 
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 Section 903.3.1.1.  
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 decorative materials meeting the 
flame pro pagation 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 and  
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 purposes 
shall be considered interior fini sh, 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 combustibl e 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 , 
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 decorative 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 perform ance 
criteria of NFPA 701, shall not exceed 75% of the 
aggregate wall area when the building 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 un its, the permissible amount of curtains, 
draperies, fabric hangings, and similar decorative 
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 spr inkler system installed in accordance with 
Section 903.3.1.  
The 4. In Group B and M occupancies, the  amount of 
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 sha ll 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 provided 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 (4 64.5m2);. 
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. Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1594  3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of 
exit discharge serving such occupancies.  
4. The fire area contain s 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 low est 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 on e 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 installed 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 i s 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 ca re 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 more 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).  
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 p ressure 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. E ach 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 considered 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 w ith 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 purpo ses, 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 livi ng purposes, 
storage, or fuel fired equipment shall be protected in 
accordance with one of the following:  
1. Attics protected throughout by a heat detector system 
arranged to activate the building fire alarm system in 
accordance with Section 907.2.10.  
2. Attics constructed of noncombustible materials.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1595 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 individuals in a single -family 
dwelling.  
I. Add Section 903.3.1.2.2 to the IBC to read:  
903.3.1.2.2 Atti cs. 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 developed 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 installed in one -family and two -family 
dwellings, Group R -3, Group R -4 Condition 1 and 
townhouses shall be per mitted to be installed throughout in 
accordance with NFPA 13D.  
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 that 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 sys tem alarm.  
L. J. Add an exception to Section 905.2 of the IBC to read:  
Exception: The residual 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 w here the highest floor level is not 
more than 150 feet above the lowest level of fire department 
vehicle access.  
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 G roups A, B, and E occupancies equipped 
throughout with quick 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 t o be located at staff locations and the 
access to such extinguishers 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 cert ain night 
clubs. Activation of the fire alarm in Group 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 accordan ce with Section 907.5.2.2.  
Exception: Where approved, 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, consta ntly attended location.  
M. 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 ac cordance with Section 430.  
O. N. Change 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 occupancies. When 
automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are 
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 G roup E 
occupancies with an occupant load 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, gymnasiu ms, 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1596  notification system will activate on sprinkler water flow 
and manual activation is provided from a normally 
occupied 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 units 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 wh ere 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: Soun d 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 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: Sleeping units or dwelling units which do not 
themselves contain a fuel -burning appliance or have an 
attached garag e, 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 buildi ng 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 e quipped 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 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 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 shall be permitted.  
The carbon monoxide detectors shall be listed as 
complying with UL 2075.  
S. P. 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 di fferences across smoke barriers. 
Maintenance of a tenable environment is not required in 
the smoke -control zone of fire origin.  
T. Q. 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 command center, the 
building of ficial 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).  
R. Replace Section 915 of the IBC with the following:  
915.1 Carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide alarms 
shall comply with this section.  
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 alarm s. The carbon 
monoxide alarms shall be listed as complying with UL 
2034 and be installed and maintained in accordance with Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1597 NFPA 720 and the manufacturer's instructions. An open 
parking garage, as defined in Chapter 2, or an enclosed 
parking garage ventilat ed 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 Group E. Classrooms in E occupancies located in a 
building cont aining 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 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 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 not be equipped with single -station 
carbon monoxide alarms pr ovided 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.  
915.4 Carbon monoxide detection systems. Carbon 
monoxide detection systems, which include carbon 
monoxide detectors and audible notification appliances, 
install ed 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. Change the title of IBC Section 915 916 to read:  
In-Building Emergency Communications Coverage.  
V. T. Change Section 915.1  916.1  of the IBC to read:  915.1  916.1  General. For localities utilizing public safety 
wireless communications, dedicated infrastructure to 
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 with 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 Section 507.  
3. Above grade single story buildings of less tha n 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. 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, plenum s, 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 sufficient 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 to 
concealment.  
X. V. 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 onto 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1598  deficiencies in the installation of the radiating cable or 
operational space shall be provided in an inspec tion 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.  
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 refuge 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 smok e.  
Exceptions:  
1. Areas of refuge 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 the 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 buildi ngs 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 dura ble sign is posted on the egress 
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 l ocking device is 
revokable by the 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 egres s 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 detection 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 delay ed 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1599 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 audible 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 b y 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 
OPEN ED 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 egres s 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 tenant 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 fol lowing 
criteria:  
1. The sensor shall be installed on the egress side 
arranged to detect an occupant approaching 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 syst em shall 
automatically unlock the doors.  
3. The doors shall be arranged to unlock from a manual 
unlocking 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 acce ss 
shall be provided to the manual unlocking device and the 
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 s ystem 
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 bee n 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 doors. 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, g ate, 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 servi ng 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 electr omagnetically 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 outside, shall be equipped with lock s. 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 sliding doors which are equipped wit h 
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 viewe rs 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1600  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 inc hes (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 str aight 
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 wheel chair spaces 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 conne ct 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 o f exit access stairs within individual 
dwelling units and sleeping units of Group R -2 
occupancies and dwelling units of Group R -3 
occupancies, including stairs in an enclosed private 
garage serving only an individual dwelling unit, provided 
that a door doe s not swing over the stairs.  
M. R. 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,  buildings 
including dwellin g 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 lowest 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 (10 2 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. 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 w ithin 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 -Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1601 fourth of the length of the maximum 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;  
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 equipped 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 
occu pancy 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 r ead:  
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 directly 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  
X. V. Change Section 1022.9  1023.9  of the IBC to read:  
1022.9  1023.9  Floor identification 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 
designation with a letter of the alphabet. The signage shall 
also state the story of, and the direction to, the exit 
discharge and the availabilit y 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 i n tactile 
characters complying with ICC A117.1 shall be located at 
each floor level landing adjacent to the door leading from 
the enclosure into the corridor to identify the floor level.  
Y. W. 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 vehicle acce ss 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 , Exce ption 1.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1602  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 
served by an accessible route provided such areas are used 
exclusively for the performance of religi ous 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 parking is provided, accessible 
parking sp aces 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 accessibl e 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 vehicular impound and motor 
pools where lots acce ssed 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1603 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 
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 complyin g with Section 
1004.11.3.2.3 of ICC A117.1 shall be provided and 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 required 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 a s other 
than a residential group containing habitable rooms, food 
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 supplie d with approved tightly fitting 
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.  
Exception: Screen doors shall not be required for out 
swinging doors or other typ es 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. 
Ever y door, window and other outside opening required for 
natural ventilation 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 e very 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 permitted 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, when 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 materia l and shall be 
permitted to have a door leading to areas in which 
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 f rom 
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 1207.1 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 
dwell ing units and adjacent public areas such as halls, 
corridors, stairs or service areas. Section 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 an d M occupancies in any 
locality in whose jurisdiction, or adjacent jurisdiction, is 
located 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 
compli ance with Table 1207.4. As an alternative to 
compliance with Table 1207.4, structures shall be 
permitted to be designed and constructed so as to limit the Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1604  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 design shall be certified by an RDP.  
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. 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 accordan ce with IMC Section 506.3 shall not 
be required to have a motorized or gravity damper.  
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 bet ween 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 recess ed luminaires installed 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 Section 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 co ntain only, high -
efficacy lamps.  
5. 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.  
6. 3. Delete Section R401.3.  
7. 4. 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. 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. 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 insulation 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 mini mum 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 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 loo se 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1605 10. Delete Section R402.3.6 and change  7. 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 buildin g thermal envelope as listed in Table 
R402.4.1.1 shall be installed 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 approve d third 
party shall inspect all components and verify compliance.  
11. 8. 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  categ ory 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 
conti nuous 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. 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 
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 e nvelope.  
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;  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1606  2. Dampers, including exhaust, intake, makeup air, 
backdraf t, 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.  
R402.4.1.2.2 Visual inspection option.  Building envelope 
tightness shall 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 leakag e 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 read:  
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 either 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 t o 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 required for 
continuously welded joints and seams and locking -type 
joints and seams of other than the snap -lock and button -
lock types .  
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 follo wing:  
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 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 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 
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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1607 R403.3.6 Building cavities (Mandatory). Building 
framing cavities 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. Change Section R403.6  R403.7  to read:  
R403.6  R403.7  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 approved 
heating and cooling calculatio n 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 specif ied 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 
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.  
21. Change Section R404.1 to read:  
R404.1 Lighting equipment (Mandatory). A minimum of 
50% of the lamps in pe rmanently 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.  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 
fenestr ation 
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 shall be 
used.  As prop osed 
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:  
 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1608  CFA = 
conditioned floor 
area 
Nbr = number of 
bedrooms  
Energy recovery 
shall not be 
assumed for 
mechanical 
ventilation.  ventilation 
rated b shall be 
in addition to 
the air 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 ventilation shall be determined i n 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.  
15. Delete Section R503.1.1.1.  
13VA C5-63-268. 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:  
1511.1 Ge neral. 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 desig n 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 b e obtained from Figure 
1609B  1609.3(2) . The ultimate design wind speed, V ult, for 
use in the design 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 re gions, near mountainous terrains, and near gorges 
shall be based on elevation. Areas at 4,000 feet 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 determined 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 climati c 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 this code.  
Exception: Manufactured homes installed on sites in an 
existing manufactured home park or subdivision shall be 
permitted to be placed so that the manu factured 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 person nel 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 a nd 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1609 documentation demonstrating equivalency. This 
documentation may include evidence of meeting other 
recognized standards 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 the firm or 
individual.  
D. Change Section 1704.2 of the IBC to read:  
1704.2 Special inspections. Where application is made for 
const ruction as described in this section, the owner shall 
employ one or more special inspectors to provide 
inspections and tests  during construction on the types of 
work listed under Section 1704  1705 . All individuals or 
agents performing special inspection fu nctions 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 specified inspection or laboratory 
testing.  
Exceptions:  
1. Special inspections and tests  are not required for work  
construction  of a m inor nature or as warranted by 
conditions in the jurisdiction as approved by the building 
official.  
2. Special inspections are not required for building 
components unless the design involves the practice of 
professional engineering or architecture as defi ned by the 
laws of this Commonwealth and regulations governing 
the professional registration and certification of engineers 
and architects.  
3. Unless otherwise required by the building official, 
special inspections are not required for occupancies in 
Grou ps R-3, R-4 or R -5 and occupancies 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 cold -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 Section 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 accordance 
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 inspections 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:  
Verifica -
tion and 
inspection  
Type  Contin -
uous 
Special 
Inspec -
tion Periodic 
Special 
Inspection  Referenced 
Standarda IBC 
Reference  
12. 
Inspect 
formwork 
for shape, 
location 
and 
dimen -
sions 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 than 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 approve d 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 buil ding 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1610  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.  
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 floor s.  
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1611 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 
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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1612  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 
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1613 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 
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1614  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 
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1615 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 
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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1616  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 
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 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1617 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 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1618  B. Change Table 2308.4.1.1(1) of the IBC to read:  
 
 
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1619  
Regulations  
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1620   
 
 
Regulations  
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1621  
 
Regulations  
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1622   
 
 
Regulations  
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1623  
 
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1624  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.  
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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1625 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.  
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 
comply ing 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 components, 
equipment and systems shall be designed and constr ucted 
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 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 shall be concealed within walls, 
floors or ceilings that provide a t hermal 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.  
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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1626  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 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 with 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 des ign of the ventilation 
system shall not be less than the number determined 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 occupant density, activities and building 
construction; or shall be determined by an approved 
engineering analysis. The ventilation system shall be 
designed to supply th e 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 
ventil ation rates in Table 403.3  403.3.1.1  are based on 
the absence of smoking in occupiable spaces.  
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 
approve d statistical data document the accuracy of an 
alternate anticipated occupant density.  
2. 3. Add the following areas to Table 403.3  403.3.1.1  of 
the IMC in the occupancy classifications shown:  
OCCUPANCY 
CLASSIFICA -
TION  Occupant 
Density 
#/1000 
ft2 a Peopl e 
Outdoor 
Airflow 
Rate in 
Breathing 
Zone,  
Rp 
cfm/person  Area 
Outdoor 
Airflow 
Rate in 
Breathing 
Zone, R a 
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 -- -- Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1627 Public spaces          
Lounges 
designated as 
an area where 
smoking is 
permittedb 100 30 --  
 
-- 
4. 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. Change Section 505.1 of the IMC to read:  
505.1 Domestic systems. Where domestic range hoods 
and domestic appliances equipped with downdraft 
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 th e 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 ki tchen 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 conc rete 
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 PV C 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. 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, such appliances shall 
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 appliances 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. 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 throu gh 506.5.6 and shall be of an approved 
design or shall be listed for the application.  
8. 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 ins tallation 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 control units sh all 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1628  and cleaning of the unit. The space 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 pollution 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 area where cookin g 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 acco unts 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 pollution control uni ts 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 inche s (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 and listed for use  with 
solid fuels.  
15. Pollution control units shall be maintained in 
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.  
9. 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 smoke 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 th at 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 of  the International 
Building Code.  
10. 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 d amper 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 Section 2801.1.4 to the IBC to re ad:  
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 utilization equipment, 
and relate d 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 (862 
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 requirements shall include des ign, 
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 venting.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1629 This code shall not app ly 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 material (feedstock) applicati ons 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 flammable 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.  
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 for functional design, wate r 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 an d 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1630  B. Add Section 2901.1.1 to the IBC to read:  
2901.1.1 Change s 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 their 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 in clude 
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 this 
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 following 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.  
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 o therwise 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 accordance 
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 outdoor sporting events and 
activitiesh 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 within 500 feet walking distance 
from the shore end of any dock they serve. Separate 
facilities shall be provided for each se x 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 Requir ed 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1631 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 t oilet 
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 f or 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 va ult 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 noncarbonated 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 of  the IPC to read:  
703.6  703.7  Tracer wire. Nonmetallic sanitary sewer 
piping that disc harges 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 wire shall terminate above 
grade in an accessible location th at 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 shall be 
permitted in accordance with Chapter 13.  
15. Change the title of Chapter 13 of the IPC to 
"Nonpotable Water Systems."  
16. 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 gover n 
the materials, design, construction, and installation of 
nonpotable water 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 nonpo table water systems. All 
portions of nonpotable water systems subject to this 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 t his 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 ma keup water supply shall be 
potable and be protected against backflow in accordance 
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 wate r 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 fitte d 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 
accordance with approved engineering practice methods 
that comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 6.  
1301.4 Signage required. All nonpotable wate r outlets, 
other than water closets and urinals, such as hose 
connections, open -ended pipes, and faucets shall 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1632  fixture. The letters of the words shall be not less th an 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.  
 
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 
nonpotabl e 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 In sect 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 
material and shall not promote corrosion of system 
componen ts.  
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 shall be designed to 
introduce water into the tank and av oid 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. 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 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 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 designed to support 
the storage tank weight when full, consistent with the 
bearing capability of adjacent soil.  
1301.10.5.2 Structural supp ort. 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 Acces s. 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 
Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1633 inside diameter not less than 24 inches (610 mm). The 
design and installation of access openings 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 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.  
1301.10.8 Venting. Storage tanks shall be vented. Vents 
shall not be connected to sanitary drainage system. Vents 
shall be at least e qual 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 ext end 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 accor dance 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 discharge 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 other wise concealed storage tanks shall be labeled at 
all access points. The label shall read: "CAUTION: 
NONPOTABLE WATER – 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 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 m m) 
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 prop er 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 drai n 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 dur ing the refill 
test.  
4. Air tests shall be permitted in lieu of water testing 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. Underground nonpotable water system 
piping shall be horizontally separated from the building 
sewer and potable water piping by 5 feet (1524 m) of 
undisturbed or compacted earth. Nonpota ble 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 i nstalled.  
Exceptions:  
1. The required separation 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 an d the pipe materials conforms to Table 702.3.  
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 t he 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 constru cted of materials that comply 
with the requirements of Table 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 th e sewer pipe centerline on both sides 
of such crossing with 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 
sleeved for a distance of at least 5 feet (1524 mm) 
horizontally from the centerline of the nonpotable pipe Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1634  on both sides of such crossing with pipe materials that 
comply with Table 702.2.  
1301.12 Outdoor outlet access. Sillcocks, hose bi bs, wall 
hydrants, 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.  
1301.13 Drainage and vent piping and fittings. 
Nonpotable drainage and vent pipe and fittings shall 
comply with the applicable 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 pumpi ng system shall be 
designed for the intended application in 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) stat ic, 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 
provi sions of Section 604.8.  
1301.16 Distribution pipe. Distribution 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 requirements 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 and 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 insp ections. Tests and inspections 
shall be performed in accordance 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 a ccordance 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 accordanc e 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 to 
verify that each termination is installed in accordance 
with Section 1301.10.8.  
1301.18 Operation and maintenance manuals. Operations 
and mai ntenance 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.  
17. Change the title of Section 1302 of the IPC to "Gray 
Water Non potable Water Systems."  
18. 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 fixture s, 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 ou tside 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 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 except  as permitted 
by the Virginia 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 age ncies.  
1302.2.1 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 o r reuse.  
1302.2.2 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1635 used for disinfection, the nonpotable water shall 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 mai ntenance. 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 downstream of the filter shall be included 
to allow for isolation durin g 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 shal l 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 
elemen ts 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 allow servicing and 
inspection of the system. Bypass valv es 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 valves shall be provided with access 
for operation and m aintenance. 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 valves shall be constructed 
and installed in accordance with  Section 715.  
19. Change the title of Section 1303 of the IPC to 
"Rainwater Nonpotable Water Systems."  
20. 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, treatment, and distribution of 
rainwater for nonpotable applicatio ns.  
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 other 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 point 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 disinfection, the nonpotable water shall not 
exceed 0.1 parts p er 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 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 downstream of the filter shall be included 
to allow for isolation during maintenance.  
1303.2.4 Filtration required. Rai nwater 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 aboveground impervious roofing surfaces 
constructed from approved materi als. Overflow or 
discharge piping from appliances or equipment, or both, 
including but not limited to evaporative coolers, water Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1636  heaters, and solar water heaters shall not discharge onto 
rainwater 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. Diverte d 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 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. Joints shall be made 
watertight.  
1303.6.1 Slope. Roof gutters, leaders, and rainwater 
collection piping shall slope continuously toward 
collection inlets. G utters 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 acces s to all filters, 
flushes, pipes, and downspouts.  
1303.7 Storage tanks. Storage tanks utilized in rainwater 
nonpotable water systems shall comply with Section 
1301.10.  
1303.8 Location. Storage tanks shall be located with a 
minimum horizontal distance bet ween 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 in fluent 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 prevent 
unwanted water from draining back into the storage tank. 
If the overflow and d rain 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 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. Roof gutters 
shall be inspected to verify that the installation and slope 
is in acc ordance 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 tested shall not leak and shall not retain 
standing water.  
1303.10.2 Collection s urface 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. Add Section 1304 entitled "Reclaimed Water Systems" 
to the IPC.  
22. Add  Change  Sections 1304.1 and 1304.2 to the IPC to 
read as follows and delete Sections 1304.3 and 1304.4 :  
1304.1 General. Reclaimed water, water reclamation 
systems, rec laimed water distribution systems, and 
allowable nonpotable reuses of reclaimed water are as 
defined or specified in and governed by the Virginia 
Water Reclamation and Reuse Regulation (9VAC25 -
740). Permits from the Virginia State Water Control 
Board are r equired 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 p art 
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 wa ter into buildings. 
Where conflicts occur between this code and the Virginia 
Water Reclamation and Reuse Regulation (9VAC25 -
740), the provisions of the Virginia Water Reclamation Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1637 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 
reclaimed water systems shall conform to applicable 
requirements of Section 1301.  
Exception: The design o f 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 re quirements 
described in Section 1301.4.  
2. Sizing of system storage as defined in the Virginia 
Water Reclamation and Reuse Regulation (9VAC25 -
740), in addition to storage sizing requirements described 
in Section 1301.10.1.  
3. Signage and labeling for rec laimed water storage in 
addition to labeling and signage requirements described 
in Section 1301.10.10.  
4. Minimum separation distances and configurations for 
in-ground reclaimed water distribution piping in lieu of 
trenching requirements for nonpotable wa ter 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 activitiesh 
D. Add footnote "h" to Table 2902.1 of the IBC to read:  
h. 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 Secti on 3002.4 of the IBC to read:  
3002.4 Elevator car to accommodate 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 depart ment 
emergency access to all floors. The elevator car shall 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 pos ition 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 a lternate landing floors required to be established by 
ASME 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 operat e with either a standardized or non -
standardized fire service 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 roo ms, rooms and 
spaces housing elevator controllers, and machinery 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 hoistway 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 f our stories or less above grade 
plane when elevator machine rooms, rooms and spaces 
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 
housi ng 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 permanentl y installed 
guards on all open sides. Guards shall be permitted to be 
of collapsible design, but otherwise must conform to all 
applicable requirements of this code for guards.  
2. Where the equipment manufacturer's procedures for 
machinery removal and repl acement depend on overhead 
structural support or lifting points, such supports or 
lifting points shall be permanently installed at the time of 
initial equipment installation.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1638  3. Where the structure that the elevator will be located in 
is required to be fu lly 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 accordance with NFPA 13. Smoke detectors for 
the automatic initiation of Phase I Emergency Recall 
Opera tion, and heat detectors or other approved devices 
that automatically disconnect the main line power supply 
to the elevators, shall be installed within the hoistway.  
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 -63-350. 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  
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.  
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, Rehabi litation  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 adopted 
and incorporated by reference to be an enforceable part of the 
VRC  VEBC . The term "IEBC" means the 2012  2015  
International Existing Building Code, publish ed 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1639 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 system 
designations are provided in the catchlin es 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 the 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 Virginia Administrative Code, 
unless clearly indicat ed.  
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 IEBC, which are incorporated by 
reference in Se ction 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 incorporated 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 the 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 purpose of such a reference 
would clearly corre spond 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 
provisions of this code shall be used as follow s: 
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 indicates 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 the 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 the 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 this code, include state amendments made 
to thos e 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 refe renced 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 subject 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 Chapters 2 - 16 of the IEBC supersede 
any provisio ns 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 administrative requirements, which 
include but a re 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 ex tent 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 
Chapter 1. Notwithstanding the above, where adminis trative 
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 state amendments to the IEBC, then such 
requiremen ts 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1640  defined in other chapters or provisions of the code and such 
definitions are also valid.  
13VAC5 -63-410. S ection 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 
housing conditions of low and moderate income indi viduals 
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 occupied and vacant, which are in 
urgent need of reh abilitation 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 housing rehabilitation has 
sometimes led to the im position 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 ma ny 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 reha bilitated if the citizens of the Commonwealth are 
to be provided with decent, sound and sanitary work spaces; 
and (iii) the application of the existing building code to such 
rehabilitation has sometimes led to the imposition of costly 
and time -consuming re quirements that result in a significant 
reduction in the amount of rehabilitation activity taking place.  
B. Section 102.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall 
control the: 
1. The  rehabilitation, reconstruction, alteration, and repair , 
and change of oc cupancy  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.  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 terms 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 cons truction or renovation to an existing 
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 
occu pancies 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.  
Existing building. A building for which a legal certificat e 
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 to 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 po rtion 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 substantial 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 correct 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 desi gnation 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1641 structure where incide ntal 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:  
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 provisions 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.  
D. Delete the following definitions from Section 202 of the 
IEBC:  
Approved  
Dangerous  
Deferred submittal  
Facility  
Flood hazard area  
Registered design professional in responsible charge  
Relocatable building  
Unsafe  
13VAC5 -63-431. Chapter 3 Provisions for all compliance 
methods.  
A. Change Section 301.1 of the IEBC to read:  
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. Sectio ns 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 exi sting 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.  
B. Add Section 301.1.05 to the IEBC to read:  
301.1.05 Previous code compliance method. Alterations 
and 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 buil ding 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 907.4.2. New structural members a dded as part of the alteration or repairs shall comply with the IBC. 
Alterations and repairs of existing buildings in flood 
hazard areas shall comply with Section 601.3 for repairs or 
Section 701.3 for alterations.  
C. Change Sections 301.1.1 through 301.1. 3 of the IEBC to 
read:  
301.1.1 Prescriptive compliance method. Repairs, 
alterations, addition, and changes of occupancy complying 
with Chapter 4 of this code shall be considered in 
compliance with the provisions of this code.  
301.1.2 Proportional complianc e 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 o f 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 abov e 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 t he 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 exist ing 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 permitted to 
comply wi th 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 s ystem in 
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the VCC.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1642  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 an d 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 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. 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.  
  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  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 
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. 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.  
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. Automati c 
fire detection systems 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1643 E. Add IEBC Section 303 Reroofing and roo f repair.  
F. Add Sections 303.1 through 303.7, 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.  
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 one -quarter unit vertical in 
12 units horizontal (2% slope) in S ection 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.  
303.2 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 instal lation of the system.  
303.3 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 roo f 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 e xisting roof 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 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 deter iorated 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 other approved materials securely fastened in 
place.  
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 shall not be 
reinstalled. Existin g 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.  
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.  
303.7 Roof repair. Roof repairs shall comply with this 
section. Work on nondamaged com ponents 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: 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 section.  
303.7.1 Building materials and systems. Building mater ials 
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 
permitted by the applicable code for new construction s hall 
be used. Like materials shall be permitted for repairs, Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1644  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.  
13VAC5 -63-432.5. Chapter 4 Prescriptive compliance 
method.  
Delete Section 409 of the IEBC in its entirety.  
13VAC5 -63-433. Chapter 5 Classification of work.  
A. Change Section 501.1 of the IEBC to read:  
501.1 Scope. The provisions of t his chapter shall be used in 
conjunction with Chapters 6 through 12 and shall apply to 
the alteration, repair, addition and change of occupancy of 
existing structures, including historic structures, as 
referenced in Section 301.1.2. The work performed on a n 
existing building shall be classified in accordance with this 
chapter.  
B. 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 shall apply where the work area 
is less than 50% of the building area.  
C. Add Section 505.1.1 to the IEBC to read:  
505.1.1 Special provisions. A building separated 
horizontally in compliance with VCC Se ction 510.2 shall 
be considered as separate and distinct buildings for the 
purpose of determining building area used for application 
of this section.  
D. Delete Section 509 of the IEBC in its entirety.  
13VAC5 -63-433.5. Chapter 7 Alterations -- Level 1.  
A. D elete IEBC Section 706 Reroofing in its entirety.  
B. Delete IEBC Sections 707.3, 707.3.1, and 707.3.2.  
13VAC5 -63-434. Chapter 8 Alterations -- Level 2.  
A. Change the exception in Section 801.1 of the IEBC to 
read:  
Exception: Buildings in which the alterat ion is exclusively 
the result of compliance with the accessibility requirements 
of Section 705.2 shall be permitted to comply with Chapter 
7. 
B. Change Exception 2 of Section 805.2 of the IEBC  to 
read:  
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.  
B. C. Change Item 7 of Section 805.3.1.1 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 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 build ings, 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.  
D. Change Section 805.3.2 of t he 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 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 sprinkler system.  
E. Delete Secti on 805.3.3 of the IEBC.  
F. Change Section 805.4.1.1 of 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 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 805.3.1.1.  
G. Change Section 808.3 of the IEBC to read:  
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 applicable only to work areas locate d within a dwelling 
unit. 
H. Change Section 809.1 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.  
13VAC5 -63-434.5. Chapter 9 Alterations -- Level 3.  
A. Change Section 901.2 of the IEBC to read:  
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, 
and 805 shall apply within all work areas whether or not 
they i nclude exits and corridors shared by more than one 
tenant and regardless of the occupant load.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1645 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.  
B. Change Section 903.1 of the IEBC to read:  
903.1 Existing stairways. Existing stairways that are part of 
the means of egress shall be enclosed in accordance 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.  
C. Change Section 904.2 of the IEBC to read:  
904.2 Fire alarm and detection systems. Fire alarm and 
detection shall be provided t hroughout the work area in 
accordance with Section 907 of the IBC as required for 
new construction.  
13VAC5 -63-435. Chapter 10 Change of occupancy.  
Add Group R -5 to the occupancy classifications listed under 
the fourth relative hazard level in Tables 1012.4  and 1012.5.  
13VAC5 -63-439. Chapter 13 Relocated or moved 
buildings.  
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.  
13VAC5 -63-440. Chapter 14 Performance compliance 
methods.  
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 while pe rmitting repair, alteration, 
addition, and change of occupancy without requiring full 
compliance with Chapters 5 through 12, except where 
compliance with other provisions of this code is 
specifically required in this chapter.  
B. Change Section 1401.2 of th e 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 proposed 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 occupanc y shall be 
subject to any applicable requirements of Chapter 10.  
C. Change Section 1401.2.5 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.  
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, Maintenan ce, may be cited 
as the "Virginia Maintenance Code," or as the "VMC."  
B. Section 101.2 Incorporation 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 considere d 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 sy stem 
of the Virginia Administrative Code with the numbering 
system of the IPMC. IPMC numbering system 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 the 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, dependi ng 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.  
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 specifica lly 
identified. The terminology "changes to the text of the 
incorporated chapters of the IPMC which 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 correspond ing chapter and section numbers of the 
IPMC numbering system. In addition, since Chapter 1 of the Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1646  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 generall y 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 c ode," or 
"the code," where used in a code or standard referenced in the 
IPMC, means that code or standard, 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 construed 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 IP MC, 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.  
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 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 s tandards referenced in the 
IPMC that address the same subject matter and impose 
differing requirements.  
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 re quirements.  
4. The state amendments to the IPMC supersede any 
provisions of the codes and standards 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 provisi ons of Chapters 2 - 8 of the IPMC or 
any provisions of the 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 r equirements 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 administrative 
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 overla p, 
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 th e 
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 eq uipment, including regulations for unsafe 
buildings and structures.  
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 appl icable in accordance with the USBC under which 
such building 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 defi nition of an unsafe structure or a 
structure unfit for human occupancy.  
C. 103.2.1 Maintenance of nonrequired components and 
systems. Nonrequired components and systems may be 
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 Section 103.8.1 of the VCC.  
D. 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 ar e 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1647 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 o r current real 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 r ental dwelling 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 ordi nance to inspect 
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 dwelli ng units shall 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 protec t 
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 proce ss of deteriorating 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 r ental inspection 
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 
propo sed rental inspection 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 e ach individual 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 pro cess of deteriorating; 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 
design ate a local government 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 inspection 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 hav ing general circulation 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 inspe ction district, 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 
rental 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 w riting 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 
include a registration requirement or a fee of any kind 
associated wit h 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 t han 60 days after 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 notification 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 rea l 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 fo r 
above, proceed to inspect dwelling units in the designated Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1648  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 living 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 t wo and not more 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 tenant s 
of such multifamily 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 schedu le established 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 d welling 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 conditions 
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 o f 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, subseq uent to such sale. If a residential rental 
dwelling unit has been issued a certificate of occupancy 
within the last four years, an exemption shall be granted for a 
minimum period of four years from the date of the issuance of 
the certificate of occupancy b y 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 (§ 55 -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 enforcement. This section 
establishes the requirements for e nforcement 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 and 
structures, whether occupied or not. Such inspection  and 
enforcement shall be carried out by an agency or department 
designated by the local governing body.  
If In accordance with subdivision C 3 of § 36 -105 of the 
Code of Virginia, if  the local building department receives a 
complaint that a violation of t his 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 building or 
structure, and the owner, occupant, or tenant of t he 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 oat h 
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 to enter the subject building or structure for the 
purpo se 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 officia l 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 sub ject building or structure prior to 
seeking the issuance of an inspection warrant under this 
section.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1649 Note: Generally, official action must be taken by the local 
government to enforce the VMC. Consultation with the legal 
counsel of the jurisdiction when i nitiating 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 initiated an enforcement 
action against the owner of a bui lding 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 adop ted 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 entit y 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. Se ction 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 l ocal 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 rem oved 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 code official and within 60 
days after retaining or terminating a technical assistant.  Note: Code officials and technical assistants are subject to 
sanctions in accordance with the VCS.  
G. Section 104.4.1 Qualifications of c ode 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, 
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 least three years in responsible charge of 
work. Any combination of education and experience that 
would confer equiva lent 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 structures, the basic 
principles of fire prevention, the accep ted 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 governing 
body may establish additional qualification require ments.  
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, plumbing, electrical or mechanical 
trades, fire protecti on, elevators or property maintenance 
work. Any combination of education and experience which 
would confer equivalent knowledge and ability shall be 
deemed to satisfy this requirement. The locality may establish 
additional certification requirements.  
H. S ection 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 tech nical 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 withi n 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 
certificatio n requirement in Section 104.4.2.  
Note: Continuing education and periodic training 
requirements for DHCD certifications are set out in the VCS.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1650  J. Section 104.4.4 Requirements for periodic maintenance 
training and education. Code officials and technical a ssistants 
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 hours of continuing education every two years as 
approved b y 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 Conflict of interest. The standards of 
conduct for co de 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 Records. The local en forcing 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 author ity. 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 
provi sions 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 any provision of this 
code provided the spirit and intent of the code are observ ed 
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 re tained 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 subje ct area of the application as to the equivalency of the 
proposed modification.  
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 performi ng 
such inspections. The code official is authorized to engage 
such expert 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 repo rt 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 i ndividuals or inspection agencies 
approved in accordance with the code official's written policy 
required by Section 104.5.3.3. 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. 
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 third -party reports shall have a written policy 
establishing the minimum acceptable qualifications for third -
party inspectors. The policy sha ll 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 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 an y 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 under  the unsafe building 
provisions of Section 105. Upon request, the correction notice 
shall reference the code section that serves as the basis for the Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1651 defects and shall state that such defects shall be corrected and 
reinspected in a reasonable time designat ed 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 proceedings 
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 noti ce 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 shall 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 been corre cted. 
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 assemblies so that t he 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 action when violat ion 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, correct or abate th e 
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 Penalties and abatement. P enalties 
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 viola tion.  
 13VAC5 -63-490. Section 105 Unsafe structures or 
structures unfit for human occupancy.  
A. Section 105.1 General. This section shall apply to 
existing structures which are classified as unsafe or unfit for 
human occupancy. All conditions causing suc h structures to 
be classified as unsafe or unfit for human occupancy shall be 
remedied or as an alternative to correcting such conditions, 
the structure may be vacated and secured against public entry 
or razed and removed. Vacant and secured structures sha ll 
still be subject to other applicable requirements of this code. 
Notwithstanding the above, when the code official 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 applicable 
requirements of this code.  
Note: Structures which become unsafe during construction 
are regulated under the VCC.  
B. Section 105.2 Inspectio n of unsafe or unfit structures. 
The code official shall inspect any structure reported or 
discovered as unsafe or unfit for human habitation 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 any conditions found.  
C. Section 105.3 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 edition 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 th e 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 Limitation to requirements for 
retrofitting. In accordance wit h Section 103.2, this code does 
not generally provide for requiring the retrofitting 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 buildings or structures.  
E. Section 105.4 Notice of unsafe structure or structure unfit 
for human occupancy. When a structure is determined to be 
unsafe or unfit for human occupancy b y the code official, a 
written notice of unsafe structure or structure unfit for human 
occupancy shall be issued by personal service to the owner, Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1652  the owner's agent or the person in control of such structure. 
The notice shall specify the corrections necess ary 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 for 
notices of violation are also applicable to notices issued under 
this section to the extent that any such requirements 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 Vacating unsafe s tructure. If the code 
official determines there 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 vacat e the 
unsafe structure. When an unsafe structure 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 po sting, 
occupancy or use of the unsafe structure 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 Posting of notice. If the notice is unable to 
be issued by personal service as required by Section 105.4, 
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. Se ction 105.6 Posting 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 
OCCUPANCY 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 shall 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 occupy, nor 
shall the placard be defaced.  
I. Section 105.7 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 code official shall be permitted to 
request the local building department to revoke the certificate 
of occupancy issued under the VCC.  
J. Section 105.8 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, 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 compliance 
has been inst ituted.  
K. Section 105.9 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 determined that there is 
an imme diate 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 i mminent 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 been 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 in the time period stipulated, the code 
official shall be permitted to cause the structure to be 
demolished. In acc ordance 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 with 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 relating to demolition, in particular whether 
newspa per 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 demolition may be prevented by 
authority granted to loc al 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 Closing of streets. When necessary for 
public safety, 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 -63-510. 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 th em as stated in those 
codes, except that terms defined in the VCC shall be used Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1653 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," "prem ises," "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:  
Struct ure unfit for human occupancy. An existing structure 
determined by the code official to be dangerous to 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 official to be dangerous to the health, safety and 
welfare of the occupants of the structure or the public, (ii) 
that contains unsafe equipment, or (iii) that  is so damaged, 
decayed, dilapidated, structurally unsafe or of such faulty 
construction or unstable foundation 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 deform ation  
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 accordance 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 30 2.8 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 
deterioration 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 structures 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 ventila tion of habitable rooms, food 
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 
screen s 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 in good working condition.  
Exception: Screens shall not be required where other 
approved means, such as mechanical venti lation, air 
curtains or insect 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 maintained as approved.  
M. Delete Section 306 of the IPMC in its entirety.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1654  N. Change Section 308.1 of the IPMC to read as follows and 
delete the remaining provisions of Section 308:  
308.1 Acc umulation 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 rode nt infestation adversely affects a structure. 
All structures shall be kept 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 huma n health. After 
extermination, proper precautions shall be taken to prevent 
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 c are 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 o r removed 
or covered in an approved manner. Any surface to be 
covered shall 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 31 1.1 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 unde rgoing 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 Responsi bility.  
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 hatchways.  
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 facil ities.  
16. Section 308.2.2 Refrigerators.  
17. Section 308.3 Disposal of garbage.  
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. S ection 309.5 Occupant.  
B. Change the following sections in Chapter 3 of the 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. Al l 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.  
4. Section 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.  
5. Section 302.5 Rodent harborage. All structures and 
adjacent premises shall be kept f ree from rodent harborage 
and infestation where 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 code or 
ordinance under which such 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 the code 
under which such buildings were constructed or when 
required by ordinance.  
9. Section 304.7 Roofs and drainage. The roof and flashing 
shall be sound, tight, and not have defects tha t 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1655 protect the foundation or slab of buildings and structures 
from the accumula tion 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 preparation areas, food service areas, or any 
areas wher e products to be included or utilized in food for 
human consumption are processed, manufactured, 
packaged, or stored shall be supplied with an approved 
tightly fitting 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 in good working 
condition.  
Exception: Screens shall not be required where other 
approved means, such as mechanical ventilation, air 
curtains, or insect 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 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 
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 conditi on. Latches at all entrances shall tightly secure 
the gates.  
13. Section 305.1 General. The interior of a structure and 
equipment therein shall be maintained in good repair, 
structurally sound, and in a sanitary condition.  
14. Section 307.1 General. Handra ils and guards required 
by the code under which a building was constructed or 
which were provided when a building was constructed 
shall be maintained.  
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 extermination.  
17. Section 309.1 Infestation. This section shall apply to 
the extent that insect and rodent infestation adversely 
affects a structure. All structures shall b e kept free from 
insect and rodent infestation. 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 prev ent reinfestation.  
C. Add the following sections to Chapter 3 of the IPMC:  
1. Section 305.7 Carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon 
monoxide alarms shall be maintained as approved.  
2. Section 310 Lead -based paint.  3. Section 310.1 General. Interior and exterior pai nted 
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 surface 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 of 
the VEBC and the requirements of the VCC applicable to 
such ALFSTs when newly constructed and the 
requirements of the VEBC when undergo ing a change of 
occupancy to an ALFST and when repaired, altered, or 
reconstructed, including the requirements for inspections 
and for a secondary containment system.  
13VAC5 -63-524. Chapter 4 Light, ventilation, and 
occupancy limitations.  
A. Delete the fol lowing sections from Chapter 4 of the 
IPMC:  
1. Section 401.2 Responsibility.  
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 Clo thes dryer exhaust.  
B. Change the following sections in Chapter 4 of the IPMC 
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.  
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 cod e 
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 code under which a building was 
constructed, or which are provided, that exha ust injurious, 
toxic, irritating, or noxious fumes, gases, dusts, or mists to 
the exterior of a building shall be maintained to prevent 
compromising the required ventilation system.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1656  C. Add the following section to Chapter 4 of the IPMC:  
Section 404.05 Limi tation of application of section. The 
provisions of Section 404 that address construction aspects 
of occupancy limitations shall apply on the extent that such 
requirements were part of the code under which a building 
was constructed. Operational requiremen ts such as the use 
of rooms or minimum areas per occupant are part of this 
code 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 
backf low 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 pressure principle backflow 
preventer assemblies, double check -valve assemblies, 
double -detector check val ve 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 performed in 
accordance with one of the following standards: ASS E 
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. Change Section 507.1 of the IPMC to read:  
507.1 General. Drainage of roofs and paved areas, yards 
and court s, 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 followin g 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 fixtures.  
2. Section 504.1 General. Required or provided plumbing 
systems and facilities shall be maintained in  compliance 
with the 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. Sectio n 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 50 5.1 Supply. Required or provided water 
supply systems shall be maintained in compliance with the 
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 provided to the 
extent required by the code under which a building was 
constructed and shall be maintained.  
7. Section 505.3 Inspection and testing of backflow 
prevention systems. Inspection  and testing 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 heaters.  
9. Section 506.1 Drainage and venting. Required or 
provided sanitary drainage and venting systems shall be 
maintained in compliance with the 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 
premises shall be discharged in a manner to protec t 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 code under which 
constructed.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1657 2. Section 504.2.1 Fixture clearances. Adequate clearances 
for usage and 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 
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 
performed in accordance with one of the following 
standards: ASSE 5010 -1013 -1, Sections 1 and 2; A SSE 
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.  
13VAC5 -63-540. Chapter 6 Mechanical and electrical 
requirements.  
A. Change Section 602 of the IPMC to read:  
Section 602 Heating and Cooling Faci lities.  
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. E very 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 thereo f 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 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 modifyin g 
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 capa city. 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 dwelling 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 m aintain a temperature of not less 
than 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 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 furnish cooling to the 
occupants thereof shall supp ly 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 ou tdoor 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 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 inspection 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:  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1658  1. Enclosed switches, rated 600 volt s 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 transfor mers;  
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 ar e 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 operator  of 
a Group R -2 apartment building or other residential 
building 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 d uring 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 unusua l 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.  
Except ion: 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 outdo or 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 tempe rature 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 activities . 
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 occupants the reof 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.  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1659 Exceptio n: 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 design te mperature 
for the locality shall be as indicated in the IECC.  
6. Section 603.1 Mechanical appliances. Required or 
provided mechanical appliances, fireplaces, solid fuel -
burning appliances, cooking appliances, chimneys, vents, 
and water heating appliances s hall 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 of 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 fu el 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 with the 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 protec tors, molded 
case circuit breakers, low -voltage fuses, luminaires, 
ballasts, motors, and electronic control, signaling, and 
communication equipment that have been exposed to water 
shall be replaced in accordance with the provisions of the 
VCC.  
Exception: T he following equipment shall be allowed to be 
repaired or reused where an inspection report from the 
equipment manufacturer, an approved representative of the 
equipment manufacturer, a third party licensed or certified 
electrician, or an electrical enginee r 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 l ess;  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 expos ed 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; or  
18. Electronic control, signaling, and communication 
equipment.  
12. Section 605.1 Electrical components. Electrical 
equipment, wiring, and appliances shall be maintained in 
compliance with the code under which constructed and in a 
safe manner.  
13. Section 605.2 Power distribution and receptacles. 
Required or  provided power circuits and receptacles shall 
be maintained in accordance with the code under which 
constructed and ground fault and arc -fault circuit 
interrupter protection shall be provided where required by 
the code in effect at the time of constructio n. All receptacle 
outlets shall have the appropriate faceplate cover for the 
location when required by the code under which 
constructed.  
14. Section 605.3 Lighting distribution and luminaires. 
Required or provided lighting circuits and luminaires shall 
be maintained in compliance with the code under which 
constructed.  
15. Section 605.4 Flexible cords. Flexible cords shall not 
be run through doors, windows, or cabinets or concealed 
within walls, floors, or ceilings.  
16. Section 606.1 General. Elevators, dumb waiters, 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 
require a six -month periodic i nspection 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 Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1660  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. Section 607.2 Clothes dryer exhaust duct. Required or 
provided clothes dryer exhaust systems shall be maintained 
in compliance with the 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.  
B. Change the following sections 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 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 co nstruction, shall be readily openable from 
the side from which egress 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 wi th 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 provided 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 for 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 comb ination 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 
with the code under which they were constructed.  
13VAC5 -63-549. Chap ter 8 Referenced standards.  
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 
Principle Assembly Using 
a Differential Pressure 
Gauge, 1991  505.3.2  
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  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1661 ASSE 5010 -
1047 -1 Field Test Procedure for a 
Reduced Pressure 
Detector Assembly Using 
a Differential Pressure 
Gauge, 1991  505.3.2  
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 -Pressure 
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 Fu el 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 Shirlington 
Road, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22206 
(https://www.acca.org/ ):  
Manual J -11, Residential Load Calculation, Eighth Edit ion  
Manual S-04 S-13, Residential Equipment Selection  
ACI 318-11 318-14, Building Code Requirements 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, Alteration, 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 Determining 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/ ) 
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 Residenti al 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, Test Methods for Surface Burning 
Characteristics of Building Materials  
ASTM E90 -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 Pressure Differences 
Across the Specimen  
ASTM E119 -2012A, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests 
of Building Construction and Mat erials  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1662  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 Backflow 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 Ele vators and Escalators  
ASME A18.1 -2011, 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 Dual 
Check Valve Type Backflow Pre venters (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 Procedure for a Double 
Check Valve Asse mbly 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 for a Double 
Check Valve Assembl y 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 P rocedure 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 Pressure 
Gauge - High -Pressure Hos e 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 
Engineers/Structural Engineering Institute , 1801 Alexander 
Bell Drive, Reston, VA 20191 -4400 
(http://www.asce.org/sei/ ) 
National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, 
Quincy, MA 02169 -7471 ( http://www.nfpa.or g/): 
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, National Fire Alarm Code  
NFPA 91 -15, Standard for  Exhaust Systems for Air 
Conveying of Vapors, Mists and Particulate Solids  
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 Flammability 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 System 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 Recreational Water Facilities, NSF 
International, 789 Dixboro Road, P.O. Box 130140, Ann 
Arbor, MI 48113 ( http://nsf.org )  Regulations  
Volume 33, Issue 13  Virginia Register of Regulations  February 20, 2017  
1663 TFI RMIP -09, Aboveground Storage Tanks Contain ing 
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 Edit ion-
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 2 010  
UL 762 -2010, Outline of Investigation for Power 
Ventilators for Restaurant Exhaust Appliances  
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 
Carbo n 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 Commission and Department of 
Housing and Urban Development  
VA.R. Doc. No. R16 -4664; Filed January 20, 2017, 2:39 p.m.  
Proposed Regul ation  
REGISTRAR'S NOTICE:  The Board of Housing and 
Community Development is claiming 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 Housi ng 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 with 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) cond ucts 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 -91. Virginia Industrialized 
Building Safety Regulations  (amending 13VAC5 -91-160, 
13VAC5 -91-180, 13VAC5 -91-200, 13VAC5 -91-240, 
13VAC5 -91-260, 13VAC5 -91-270).  
Statutory Authority:  § 36-73 of the Code of Virginia.  Public Hearing Information:  
May 15, 2017 - 10 a.m. - Virginia Housing Development 
Authority Virginia Housing Center, 4224 Cox Road, Glen 
Allen, VA 23060  
Public Comment Deadline:  April 21, 2017.  
Agency Contact:  Elizabeth O. Rafferty, Policy and 
Legislative Director, Department of Housing and Community 
Develop ment, Main Street Centre, 600 East Main Street, 
Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23219, telephone (804) 371 -7011, 
FAX (804) 371 -7090, TTY (804) 371 -7089, or email 
elizabeth.rafferty@dhcd.virginia.gov.  
Background:  The Virginia Industrialized Building Safety 
Regulati ons (IBSR) governs the in -factory construction of 
industrialized buildings, which are also known as modular 
buildings. The regulations provide the same standards for 
construction as those buildings constructed on site and 
regulated by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code 
(13VAC5 -63). Both regulations utilize nationally recognized 
model building codes and standards to provide the technical 
requirements for the actual construction of the regulated 
buildings. Every three years, new editions of the mode l codes 
become available. At that time, the Board of Housing and 
Community Development initiates a regulatory action to 
incorporate the newest editions of the model codes into the 
regulation and accepts proposals for changes to the regulation 
from affected  client groups and the public. The Department of 
Housing and Community Development staff maintains 
mailing lists for workgroups involving different subject areas 
of regulation and conducts workgroup meetings to develop 
consensus recommendations, when possi ble, concerning 
submitted proposals. The department uses an online program 
incorporating the provisions of the regulation and the model 
codes and standards to facilitate the submittal of proposals. A 
public hearing is held during the workgroup meeting stag e of 
the process and a comment period established. Once 
workgroup meetings are completed, the board holds a series 
of meetings to consider each proposal, and the approved 
proposals are incorporated into the proposed regulation. After 
publication of the pro posed regulation, the board establishes a 
comment period for the acceptance of comments on 
amendments reflected in the proposed regulation, and an 
additional public hearing is held. The board then meets to 
consider proposals and public comments and develop s a final 
regulation to complete the regulatory process.  
Summary:  
The proposed amendments to the IBSR are as follows:  
13VAC5 -91-160: Update the referenced model codes and 
standards to the most recent editions available.  
13VAC5 -91-180: Remove a re -approval  provision for 
compliance assurance agencies that do the inspection and 
approval of construction of industrialized buildings in the 
plants. Added in the last update of the regulation, this 
requirement has proven to be burdensome and