Building Codes & Regulations Flashcards

Under the IRC, what is the minimum distance a gas appliance (water heater) in a garage must be elevated above the floor?

Answer: 18 inches

Gas-fired appliances in garages must have their ignition sources elevated at least 18 inches above the floor to prevent ignition of flammable vapors.

Which IRC section governs the requirements for guards (guardrails) on open sides of elevated walking surfaces?

Answer: Section R312 — Guards

IRC Section R312 specifically addresses guard requirements for open sides of elevated walking surfaces such as decks and balconies.

When a state adopts a model code with local amendments, which takes precedence in that jurisdiction?

Answer: The local amendments take precedence over the model code

Local amendments adopted through the jurisdiction's legislative process take precedence over the base model code provisions they modify.

Under the IRC, what is the maximum allowable gap between deck balusters (infill) for guard systems?

Answer: 4 inches

The IRC requires baluster spacing not to exceed 4 inches to prevent a 4-inch sphere from passing through.

A variance from a zoning ordinance is different from a building code appeal in that a variance:

Answer: Provides relief from land use regulations, not construction standards

A variance provides relief from zoning/land use regulations such as setbacks, while a code appeal addresses construction standard requirements.

Under the IRC, bathroom exhaust fans must vent to which of the following locations?

Answer: To the exterior of the building

The IRC requires bathroom exhaust fans to terminate at the exterior of the building to prevent moisture accumulation in enclosed spaces.

Which of the following best describes 'prescriptive compliance' with building codes?

Answer: Meeting specific code-stated requirements without needing engineering calculations

Prescriptive compliance means following the specific requirements spelled out in the code without needing to perform engineering analysis.