reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.1.2. - Purpose.

§ 23-27.3-100.1.2. Purpose.
The general assembly hereby finds and declares that a state building code for Rhode Island is necessary to establish adequate and uniform regulations governing the construction and alteration of buildings and structures within the state. The general assembly further finds and declares that the people of Rhode Island will benefit by the adoption of a modern uniform building code which takes into account current scientific and engineering knowledge and allows for the utilization of modern materials and methods of construction for the regulation of construction within the state of Rhode Island in the interest of the public health, safety, and welfare.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 236, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.1.3. - Creation of the state building code standards committee.

§ 23-27.3-100.1.3. Creation of the state building code standards committee.
(a)
There is created as an agency of state government a state building code standards committee that shall adopt, promulgate, and administer a state building code for the purpose of regulating the design, construction, and use of buildings or structures previously erected, in accordance with a rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures developed pursuant to chapter 29.1 of this title, and to make any amendments to them as they, from time to time, deem necessary or desirable, the building code to include any code, rule, or regulation incorporated in the code by reference.
(b)
A standing subcommittee is made part of the state building code standards committee to promulgate and administer a state housing and property maintenance code for the purpose of establishing minimum requirements and standards and to regulate the occupancy and use of existing premises, structures, buildings, equipment, and facilities, and to make amendments to them as deemed necessary.
(c)
A joint committee, with membership as set forth in § 23-29.1-2(a) from the state building code standards committee, shall develop and recommend for adoption and promulgation, a rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures, which code shall include building code elements to be administered by the state building code standards committee as the authority having jurisdiction over the elements.
(d)
The state building code standards committee shall be housed within the state building office.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 236, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 378, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 47, art. 3, § 3; P.L. 2019, ch. 88, art. 4, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.1.5. - Building code — Adoption and promulgation by committee.

§ 23-27.3-100.1.5. Building code — Adoption and promulgation by committee.
The state building standards committee has the authority to adopt, promulgate, and administer a state building code, which shall include: (a) Provisions and amendments as necessary to resolve conflicts between fire safety codes and building codes, as provided for in § 23-28.01-6; and (b) A rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures. The building code may be promulgated in several sections, with a section applicable to one- and two-family (2) dwellings; to multiple dwellings and hotels and motels; to general building construction; to plumbing; and to electrical. The building code shall incorporate minimum standards for the location, design, construction, and installation of wells that are appurtenances to a building in applicable sections. For purposes of this chapter, “appurtenance” includes the installation, alteration, or repair of wells connected to a structure consistent with chapter 13.2 of title 46. The building code and the sections thereof shall be reasonably consistent with recognized and accepted standards adopted by national model code organizations and recognized authorities. To the extent that any state or local building codes, statutes, or ordinances are inconsistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Title III, Public Accommodations and Services Operated by Private Entities, 42 U.S.C. § 12181 et seq., and its regulations and standards, they are hereby repealed. The state building code standards committee is hereby directed to adopt rules and regulations consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Title II and III (28 C.F.R. 35 and 28 C.F.R. 36, as amended), as soon as possible, but no later than February 15, 2012, to take effect on or before March 15, 2012. The state building code standards committee is hereby authorized and directed to update those rules and regulations consistent with the future revisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Standards. All electrical work done in the state shall be in accordance with the latest edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC). The state building commission shall adopt the latest edition of the NEC, including any amendments to the NEC by the commission. The adoption of the NEC by the commission shall be completed so that it will take effect on the first day of July of the year the edition is dated.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 236, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 48, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 151, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 155, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 195, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 272, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 17, § 5; P.L. 2019, ch. 296, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 297, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.1.5.2. - Existing codes.

§ 23-27.3-100.1.5.2. Existing codes.
All existing codes shall remain in effect until the date established by the legislative act which provides for the adoption of the code promulgated by the committee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 178, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.1.5.3. - State rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures.

§ 23-27.3-100.1.5.3. State rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures.
The state building code standards committee has the authority to adopt, amend, and repeal the building code elements of the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures and to promulgate and administer the building code elements of the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures, which supercedes for existing buildings and structures other codes and regulations adopted by the building code standards committee, unless the provisions of other codes and regulations are not inconsistent with the provisions of the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures.
History of Section.
P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.1.5.4. - State energy conservation code.

§ 23-27.3-100.1.5.4. State energy conservation code.
(a)
The state building code standards committee (“committee”) shall adopt an energy conservation code that shall be based on appropriate nationally and internationally recognized models, and shall promulgate and administer the energy conservation code. The energy conservation code shall contain provisions pertaining to, but not limited to, the construction of buildings, the use of renewable energy resources in buildings, the efficient use of energy within buildings, and the orientation of buildings on their sites. The state energy conservation code shall at a minimum:
(1)
For residential or commercial buildings, meet or exceed the most recently published International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), or achieve equivalent or greater energy savings. The state building code standards committee shall revise the state energy conservation code to comply with this requirement within one year of any update to the International Energy Conservation Code; provided, however, that the 2021 IECC published by the International Code Council shall not be adopted and the 2024 IECC published by the International Code Council shall be adopted within (3) three months of its release.
(2)
Within one year of the release of the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code, the state building code standards committee shall revise the state energy conservation code to meet or exceed the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code’s electric readiness provisions.
(b)
No later than six (6) months after the adoption of the building code(s) described in subsection (a) of this section, the state building code standards committee shall develop a plan to achieve compliance with the building code(s) described in subsection (a) of this section in at least ninety percent (90%) of new and renovated residential and commercial building space in the state. Such plan shall include active training and enforcement programs and measurement of the rate of compliance each year.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 142, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 10, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 11, § 1; P.L. 2023, ch. 285, § 1, effective June 22, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.1.5.5. - Hurricane, storm, and flood standards.

§ 23-27.3-100.1.5.5. Hurricane, storm, and flood standards.
The state building code standards committee has the authority, in consultation with the building code commissioner, to adopt, maintain, amend, and repeal code provisions, which shall be reasonably consistent with recognized and accepted standards and codes, including for existing buildings, for storm and flood resistance. The code provisions shall, to the extent reasonable and feasible, take into account climatic changes and potential climatic changes and sea level rise and inundation areas below dams classified by the department of environmental management as high hazard, significant hazard, or low hazard. Flood velocity zones may incorporate freeboard calculations adopted by the Coastal Resources Management Council pursuant to its power to formulate standards under the provisions of § 46-23-6.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 169, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 262, § 2; P.L. 2022, ch. 358, § 1, effective June 29, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 359, § 1, effective June 29, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.1.6. - Committee as board of standards and appeals — Powers and duties — Appeals.

§ 23-27.3-100.1.6. Committee as board of standards and appeals — Powers and duties — Appeals.
The building codes standards committee, after the state building code is adopted and promulgated, will serve as a board of standards and appeals. For the purpose of securing for the public the benefits of new developments in the building industry and insuring public health, the board shall make or cause to be made investigations, or may accept authenticated reports from recognized authoritative sources on new materials or modes of construction intended for use in the construction of buildings or structures, and shall promulgate regulations setting forth the conditions under which the materials or modes of construction may be used. The regulations and amendments thereto shall have the same force and effect as the provisions of the code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 236, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.1.7. - Effect of local codes — Repeal of local authority.

§ 23-27.3-100.1.7. Effect of local codes — Repeal of local authority.
The local building codes and ordinances shall remain in effect until the adoption of the state building code, July 1, 1977, and the local cities and towns shall be prohibited from enacting any local building codes and ordinances in the future. Inconsistent local charter provisions pertaining to the adoption of the codes and ordinances shall be restricted within the intent of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 236, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.1.8. - Severability.

§ 23-27.3-100.1.8. Severability.
This chapter shall not be construed to limit or restrict the authority of the state or local fire marshals as provided in chapter 28.1 or 28.28 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 236, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.2. - Application of references.

§ 23-27.3-100.2. Application of references.
Unless otherwise specifically provided in this code, all references to article or section numbers shall be construed to refer to an article, section, or provision of this code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.3. - Construction.

§ 23-27.3-100.3. Construction.
(a)
This code shall be construed to secure its expressed intent which is to insure public health, safety, and welfare insofar as they are affected by building construction, through structural strength, adequate egress facilities, sanitary conditions, equipment, light and ventilation, and fire safety; and in general, to secure safety to life, property, and community from all hazards incidental to the design, erection, repair, removal, demolition, or use and occupancy of buildings, structures, or premises.
(b)
The intent of this code is also to effect the establishment of uniform standards and requirements for construction and construction materials, compatible with accepted standards of engineering and fire prevention practices and public safety; the adoption of modern technical methods, devices, and improvements which may reduce the cost of construction without affecting the health, safety, and welfare of the occupants or users of buildings; and the elimination of restrictive, obsolete, conflicting, and unnecessary building regulations and requirements which may increase the cost of construction and maintenance over the life of the building, or retard unnecessarily the use of new materials, or which may provide unwarranted preferential treatment of types of classes of materials, products, or methods of construction without affecting the health, safety, and security of the occupants or users of the buildings.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-100.4. - Specialized codes incorporated.

§ 23-27.3-100.4. Specialized codes incorporated.
Specialized codes, rules, or regulations pertaining to building construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, or demolition promulgated, and as amended from time to time, by the various authorized state agencies shall be incorporated in this code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-101.0. - Matters covered.

§ 23-27.3-101.0. Matters covered.
The provisions of this code shall apply to all buildings and structures and their appurtenant constructions, including vaults, area, and street projections and accessory additions, and shall apply with equal force to municipal and state authorities established by the legislature and private buildings and structures, except where the buildings and structures are otherwise specifically provided for by statute.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-101.1. - Exemption for ordinary repairs.

§ 23-27.3-101.1. Exemption for ordinary repairs.
No building or structure shall be constructed, extended, repaired, removed, demolished, or altered in violation of these provisions, except for ordinary repairs as defined in § 23-27.3-102.0.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-101.2.1. - Proposed buildings.

§ 23-27.3-101.2.1. Proposed buildings.
Any requirement essential for structural strength, adequate egress facilities, sanitary conditions, equipment, light and ventilation, and fire safety of a proposed building or structure at the plan review stage, and which is not specifically covered by this code, shall be determined by the state building code standards committee, herein referred to as the committee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-101.2.2. - Buildings and structures, existing and under construction.

§ 23-27.3-101.2.2. Buildings and structures, existing and under construction.
The building official as hereinafter defined shall determine any requirement which is not specifically covered by this code and which is essential for structural strength, adequate egress facilities, sanitary conditions, equipment, light and ventilation, and fire safety of existing buildings and structures or buildings and structures under construction. The committee shall be notified in writing within seven (7) working days of any action taken under this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-101.3. - Zoning restrictions.

§ 23-27.3-101.3. Zoning restrictions.
When the provisions in this code specified for structural strength, adequate egress facilities, sanitary conditions, equipment, light and ventilation, and fire safety conflict with the local zoning ordinances, this code shall control the erection or alteration of buildings. In respect to location, use and type, permissible area, and height, the local zoning ordinance shall control.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 85.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-102.0. - Ordinary repairs.

§ 23-27.3-102.0. Ordinary repairs.
(a)
Ordinary repairs to buildings and structures may be made without application or notice to the building official, but the repairs shall not include:
(1)
The installation of any siding;
(2)
The cutting away of any wall, partition or portion of the wall;
(3)
The removal or cutting away of any structural beam or bearing support;
(4)
The removal or change of any required means of egress;
(5)
Rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the exitway requirements;
(6)
Alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standard pipe, water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping;
(7)
Electric wiring;
(8)
Mechanical or other work which affects public health, safety or welfare.
(b)
All work not classified as ordinary repair shall comply with the rules and regulations or ordinances of the municipality as to the procurement of a permit for these repairs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 164, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 415, § 19.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-103.0. - Installation of service equipment.

§ 23-27.3-103.0. Installation of service equipment.
When the installation, extension, alteration, or repair of an elevator, moving stairway, mechanical equipment, refrigeration, air conditioning or ventilation apparatus, plumbing, gas piping, electric wiring, heating system, or any other equipment is specifically controlled by the provisions of the code or the approved rules and regulations, it shall be unlawful to use the equipment until a certificate of approval has been issued therefore by the building official or other municipal or state agency having jurisdiction.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-104.0. - Maintenance.

§ 23-27.3-104.0. Maintenance.
All buildings and structures and all parts of them shall be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition. All service equipment, means of egress, devices, and safeguards which are required by this code, or by the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures, in a building or structure shall be maintained in good working order. Any requirement necessary for the safety of the occupants of buildings and structures, not specifically covered by this code, shall be determined by the building official.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-104.1. - Owner responsibility.

§ 23-27.3-104.1. Owner responsibility.
The owner, as defined in article 2, or the owner’s designated agent, shall be responsible for the safe and sanitary maintenance of the building or structure and its exitway facilities at all times, unless otherwise specifically provided in this code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-105.1. - Continuation of existing use.

§ 23-27.3-105.1. Continuation of existing use.
The legal use and occupancy of any structure existing on July 1, 1977, or for which it had been heretofore approved, may be continued without change, except as may be specifically covered in this code or as may be deemed necessary by the building official for the general health, safety, and welfare of the occupants and the public. This section shall in no way conflict with local zoning ordinances and local zoning classifications.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-105.2. - Change in use and occupancy.

§ 23-27.3-105.2. Change in use and occupancy.
It is unlawful to make any change in the use or occupancy of any structure or part of it which would subject it to any provision of this code, including the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures, without the approval of the building official and without the issuance of a certificate of occupancy indicating that the structure complies with the provisions of this code, or the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures as appropriate, for proposed new use or occupancy and that the change does not result in any greater hazard to public health, safety, and welfare.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-105.3. - Part change in use.

§ 23-27.3-105.3. Part change in use.
If a portion of a building is changed in occupancy or to a new use group, and that portion is separated from the remainder of the building with the required vertical and horizontal fire division complying with the fire grading as provided by this code, then the construction involved in the change shall be made to conform to the requirements of this code, or the requirements of the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures as applicable for the new use and occupancy, and the existing portion shall be made to comply with the exitway requirements of this code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 87; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-105.4. - Reestablishment of a prior use.

§ 23-27.3-105.4. Reestablishment of a prior use.
After an approved change of use has been made to a building or parts thereof, the reestablishment of a prior use that is not permitted for a new building, or parts thereof of the same type of construction, is prohibited unless all the applicable provisions of this code have been met.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-106.0. - Existing structures.

§ 23-27.3-106.0. Existing structures.
(a)(1)
Except as provided in this section, existing buildings or structures when altered, renovated, reconstructed or repaired or a change of use occurs as specified in this section shall be made to conform to the requirements of the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures. See chapters 2 through 34 of regulation SBC-1 for new buildings.
(2)
Except as provided for in the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures, the alternative procedures of SBC-1, chapter 34, entitled Repair, Alteration, Addition to, and Change of Use of Existing Buildings, may be used in lieu of the provisions of this section for all existing buildings in which there is work involving repairs, alterations, additions, or changes of use and occupancy.
(b) Flood resistant construction for buildings or structures in flood hazard areas.
In order to determine the percentage between the costs for alterations, renovations, reconstruction and repairs and the physical value of the building or structure, to establish whether a substantial improvement or a substantial damage occurs, the building official shall exclude the alteration, renovation, reconstruction and repair cost of the following item:
All nonpermit items such as painting, decorating, landscaping, fees, and the like.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 236, §§ 3, 4; P.L. 1989, ch. 178, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 379, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 85; P.L. 1999, ch. 164, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 232, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 415, § 19.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-106.1. - Substantial improvements.

§ 23-27.3-106.1. Substantial improvements.
If substantial improvements are made within any twelve (12) month period costing in excess of fifty percent (50%) of the physical value of the building, this code’s requirements for flood resistant construction for new structures shall apply.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 232, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-106.2. - Substantial damages exceeding fifty percent.

§ 23-27.3-106.2. Substantial damages exceeding fifty percent.
If the building is damaged by fire or any other cause to an extent in excess of fifty percent (50%) of the physical value of the building before the damage was incurred, this code’s requirements for flood resistant construction for new structures shall apply.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 232, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-106.3. - Improvements and damages between twenty-five and fifty percent of value.

§ 23-27.3-106.3. Improvements and damages between twenty-five and fifty percent of value.
If the cost of alterations or repairs described in this chapter is between twenty-five (25%) and fifty percent (50%) of the physical value of a structure, the building official shall determine to what degree the portions so altered or repaired shall be made to conform to the requirements of the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 232, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-106.4. - Improvements or damages under twenty-five percent of value.

§ 23-27.3-106.4. Improvements or damages under twenty-five percent of value.
If the cost of alterations or repairs described in this chapter is twenty-five percent (25%) or less of the physical value of the building, the building official shall permit, consistent with the requirements of the rehabilitation building and fire code for existing buildings and structures, the restoration of the building to its condition previous to damage or deterioration with materials of equal quality as those of which the building was originally constructed; provided, however, that the construction does not endanger the general health, safety, and welfare.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 185, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 290, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 232, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-106.5. - Physical value.

§ 23-27.3-106.5. Physical value.
In applying the provisions of §§ 23-27.3-106.0 — 23-27.3-106.5, physical value of the building or structure shall be based on the current market value. Market value shall be established by the owner who shall provide the market value of the building or structure prior to alteration, as established by an appraiser, estimator or real estate broker.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 236, §§ 3, 4; P.L. 1999, ch. 164, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 232, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-107.1. - Local building official — Appointment.

§ 23-27.3-107.1. Local building official — Appointment.
The appropriate local authority shall appoint an officer to administer the code. The officer shall be known as the building official. Two (2) or more communities may combine in the appointment of a building official for the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this chapter, including officials serving in such capacity on January 1, 1977, shall serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority, except that such incumbent officials shall not be required to meet the official provisions for local building officials set forth in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 179, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-107.1.1. - State and local inspector — Qualifications — Powers and duties.

§ 23-27.3-107.1.1. State and local inspector — Qualifications — Powers and duties.
(a)
The appropriate state or local authority may appoint one or more full-time or part-time inspectors to assist the building official in the performance of his or her duties and in the enforcement of this code.
(b)(1)
Building Inspectors-1 shall have a minimum of three (3) years’ experience in residential construction and shall possess an International Code Council (ICC) certification as a Residential Building Inspector or any combination of education and experience that the building code standards committee deems to be substantially equivalent. The Building Inspector-1 shall complete the state certification program within one year of employment and shall enforce the provisions of the state residential code SBC-2.
Building Inspectors-2 shall have a minimum of three (3) years’ experience in both residential and commercial construction; and shall possess ICC certifications as a Residential Building Inspector and Commercial Building Inspector or any combination of education and experience that the building code standards committee deems to be substantially equivalent. The Building Inspector-2 shall complete the state certification program within one year of employment and shall enforce the provisions of both the state building code SBC-1 and the state residential code SBC-2.
(2)
Electrical inspectors shall have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience and a Rhode Island Class A or Class B electrician’s license.
(3)
Mechanical inspectors shall have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience and a valid Rhode Island master pipe fitters I or journeyperson contractor’s license.
(4)
Plumbing inspectors shall have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience and a Rhode Island master or journeyperson plumber’s license.
(5)
Mechanical and plumbing inspectors who have been enforcing either code prior to January 1, 1986, may continue to do so.
(c)
Inspectors listed in this section shall have the authority to affix their signature to permits that pertain to the work they inspect.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 179, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 190, § 1; P.L. 2010, ch. 303, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 223, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 270, § 1; P.L. 2020, ch. 79, art. 2, § 14; P.L. 2022, ch. 105, § 1, effective June 20, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 106, § 1, effective June 20, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-107.2. - Alternate local building official.

§ 23-27.3-107.2. Alternate local building official.
The appropriate local authority shall appoint an alternate building official to act on behalf of the building official during any period of disability caused by, but not limited to, illness, absence, or conflict of interest. The alternate building official shall meet the qualifications of § 23-27.3-107.5. The appropriate local authority shall appoint an alternate local building official within ten (10) calendar days or request the state building office’s services as allowed in § 23-27.3-107.3. When the office’s services are used due to the lack of a local building official, the salary and operating expenses of the commissioner, or his or her designee, shall be reimbursed to the state as allowed by § 23-27.3-108.2(c).
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1, P.L. 1989, ch. 179, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 88, art. 4, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-107.3. - Appointment of personnel by state building commissioner.

§ 23-27.3-107.3. Appointment of personnel by state building commissioner.
(a)
The state building commissioner may appoint such other personnel as shall be necessary for the administration of the code. In the absence of a local building official or an alternate, as detailed in § 23-27.3-107.2, the commissioner shall assume the responsibility of the local building official and shall designate one of the following agents to enforce the code:
(1)
A member of the commissioner’s staff who meets the qualifications of § 23-27.3-107.5 and is certified in accordance with § 23-27.3-107.6.
(2)
An architect or engineer contracted by the commissioner through the department of business regulation.
(3)
A building official who is selected from a list of previously certified officials or inspectors.
(b)
The salary and operating expenses for services provided in accordance with subsection (a)(1), (2), or (3) shall be reimbursed to the state by the city or town receiving the services and shall be deposited as general revenues. The attorney general shall be informed of any failure of the appropriate local authority to appoint a local building official to enforce the code in accordance with § 23-27.3-107.1 or § 23-27.3-107.2.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 179, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 370, art. 40, § 74; P.L. 2018, ch. 47, art. 3, § 3; P.L. 2022, ch. 105, § 1, effective June 20, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 106, § 1, effective June 20, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-107.4. - Qualifications and duties of the state building commissioner.

§ 23-27.3-107.4. Qualifications and duties of the state building commissioner.
(a)
The state building commissioner shall serve as the executive secretary to the state building code standards committee. In addition to the state building commissioner’s other duties as set forth in this chapter, the state building commissioner shall assume the authority for the purpose of enforcing the provisions of the state building code in a municipality where there is no local building official.
(b)
The state building commissioner shall be a member of the classified service, and for administrative purposes shall be assigned a position in the department of business regulation. Qualifications for the position of the state building commissioner shall be established in accordance with provisions of the classified service of the state, and shall include the provision that the qualifications include at least ten (10) years’ experience in building or building regulations generally, and that the commissioner be an architect or professional engineer licensed in the state or a certified building official presently or previously employed by a municipality and having at least ten (10) years’ experience in the building construction or inspection field.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 236, §§ 3, 4; P.L. 1985, ch. 181, art. 61, § 9; P.L. 2018, ch. 47, art. 3, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-107.5. - Local building official — Qualifications — Powers and duties.

§ 23-27.3-107.5. Local building official — Qualifications — Powers and duties.
The building official, to be eligible for appointment, shall have at least five (5) years’ experience in both residential and commercial construction, shall have been employed as a Building Inspector-2 for a minimum of one year, and shall possess an International Code Council (ICC) certification as a certified building official (CBO) or any combination of education and experience that the building code standards committee deems to be substantially equivalent. The building official shall possess a thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of residential and commercial building construction and the ability to review plans and supervise staff in the enforcement of the state building code. However, the qualifications outlined in this section shall not be required in the case of a building official holding a current state certification prior to July 1, 2010. The building official shall pass upon any question relative to the mode, manner of construction, or materials to be used in the erection or alteration of buildings or structures. The building official shall require compliance with the provisions of the state building code of all rules lawfully adopted and promulgated thereunder, and of laws relating to construction, alteration, repair, removal, demolition, and integral equipment, and location, use, occupancy, and maintenance of buildings and structures, except as may be otherwise provided for. The building official or his or her assistant shall have the right of entry to buildings or structures, for the proper performance of his or her duties during normal business hours, except that in the case of an emergency the building official shall have the right of entry at any time, if the entry is necessary in the interest of public safety.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 236, §§ 3, 4; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 2010, ch. 303, § 1; P.L. 2022, ch. 105, § 1, effective June 20, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 106, § 1, effective June 20, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-107.6. - Certification of local building officials — Educational programs.

§ 23-27.3-107.6. Certification of local building officials — Educational programs.
(a)
The state building commissioner and building code standards committee and appeals committee shall accept successful completion of programs of training developed by public agencies as proof of qualification pursuant to §§ 23-27.3-107.5 and 23-27.3-107.1.1 to be eligible to be a local building official and inspector.
(b)
Upon determination of qualification the state building commissioner shall issue or cause to be issued a certificate to the building official or inspector stating that he or she is so certified. No person after July 1, 1977 shall act as a building official or inspector for any municipality unless the state building commissioner and the building code standards and appeals committee determine that he or she is so qualified, or has been issued a temporary certificate not to exceed twelve (12) months permitting the official or inspector to so qualify. The commissioner and committee may prepare and conduct educational programs designed to train and assist building officials or inspectors in carrying out their responsibilities.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 236, §§ 3, 4; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 179, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-107.7. - Recertification and continuing education.

§ 23-27.3-107.7. Recertification and continuing education.
(a)
The committee shall offer a continuing educational program designed to assist all state and local building officials and inspectors in executing their responsibilities as defined in this chapter. Regular attendance at these programs shall be required of all building officials and inspectors, and no building official or inspector who attends a course of instruction shall lose any rights relative to compensation or vacation time.
(b)
In order to provide for professional administration of the code and maintain the official’s and inspector’s level of competency, the committee shall develop regulations that will require the officials and inspectors to attend approved continuing education courses to retain their state certification. The committee shall develop the program within one year of July 3, 1989. The committee may make use of model code, regional or national education programs as a basis of the acceptable courses for credit in this program.
(c)
[Deleted by P.L. 2022, ch. 105, § 1 and P.L. 2022, ch. 106, § 1.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 179, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 85; P.L. 2022, ch. 105, § 1, effective June 20, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 106, § 1, effective June 20, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-107.8. - Restriction on employees’ activities.

§ 23-27.3-107.8. Restriction on employees’ activities.
Neither the building commissioner, nor any full-time building officials, or full-time local inspectors, as defined in this code, shall be engaged in, or directly or indirectly connected with, the furnishing of labor, materials, or appliances for the construction, alteration, or maintenance of any building or structure, or the preparation of plans or specifications therefor for the state, in the case of the building commissioner, or within the municipality in which he or she is respectively employed in the case of a building official or local inspector unless the individual is the owner of the building or structure; nor shall any officer or employee associated with the state building office or municipality engage in any work that conflicts with his or her official duties or with the interests of the department of business regulation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 85; P.L. 2019, ch. 88, art. 4, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-107.9. - Relief from personal responsibility.

§ 23-27.3-107.9. Relief from personal responsibility.
The state building commissioner, the members and staff of the building code standards committee and the board of standards and appeals, the building official, officer, or employee charged with the enforcement, administration and/or review of this code, while acting for the state or a municipality, shall not thereby render himself or herself liable personally, and he or she is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damages that may accrue to persons or property as a result of any act required or permitted in the discharge of his or her official duties. Any suit instituted against any of these officers or employees because of an act performed by him or her in the lawful discharge of his or her duties and under the provisions of this code shall be defended by the legal representative of the state in the case of the members and staff of the building code standards committee and the board of standards and appeals, and the building commissioner or his or her agents or by the legal representative of the municipality, in the case of the building official, officer, or employee, until the final determination of the proceedings. In no case shall members and staff of the building code standards committee and the board of standards and appeals, the state building commissioner, building official, or any of their subordinates be liable for costs or damages in any action, suit, or proceeding that may be instituted pursuant to the provisions of this code and the members and staff of the building code standards committee and the board of standards and appeals, the state building commissioner, or his or her agents, or an officer of the state building office, acting in good faith and without malice and within the scope of their employment, is free from liability for acts performed under any of its provisions or by reason of any act or omission in the performance of his or her official duties in connection with this code.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 430, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 88, art. 4, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 23 - Health and Safety › Chapter 23-27.3 - State Building Code › Article 1 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 23-27.3-108.0. - Duties and powers of the building official and the state building commissioner.

§ 23-27.3-108.0. Duties and powers of the building official and the state building commissioner.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 256, § 1.