Virginia Law

A. Change Items 6 and 8 of Section 302.1 of the IBC to read:

1. Institutional (see Section 308 and Section 313 for SRCFs).

2. Residential (see Section 310 and Section 313 for SRCFs): Groups R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, and R-5.

B. 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.

C. 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:

Amusement park structures

Bleachers

Grandstands

Stadiums

Swimming pools

D. 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.

E. Delete Exception 19 of Section 307.1.1 of the IBC and change Exceptions 14 and 18 to Section 307.1.1 of the IBC to read:

14. The storage of black powder, smokeless propellant and small arms primers in Groups M, R-3 and R-5 and special industrial explosive devices in Groups B, F, M and S, provided such storage conforms to the quantity limits and requirements prescribed in the IFC, as amended in Section 307.9.

18. The storage of distilled spirits and 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.

F. Change the "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:

G. 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 14 in Section 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 vendor 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 immediately removed from the building in such manner to avoid spilling any powder.

3. There shall be at least 50 feet separation between vendors and 20 feet from any exit.

4. Small arms primers shall be displayed and stored in the manufacturer's original packaging and in accordance with the requirements of Section 5606.5.2.3.

4. Change Exception 4 and add Exceptions 10 and 11 to Section 5601.1 of the IFC as follows:

4. The possession, storage and use of not more than 15 pounds (6.75 kg) of commercially manufactured sporting black powder, 20 pounds (9 kg) of smokeless powder, and any amount of small arms primers for hand loading of small arms ammunition for personal consumption.

10. The display of small arms primers in Group M when in the original manufacturer's packaging.

11. The possession, storage, and use of not more than 50 pounds (23 kg) of commercially manufactured sporting black powder, 100 pounds (45 kg) of smokeless powder, and small arms primers for hand loading of small arms ammunition for personal consumption in Group R-3 or R-5, or 200 pounds (91 kg) of smokeless powder when stored in the manufacturer's original containers in detached Group U structures at least 10 feet (3048 mm) from inhabited buildings and are accessory to Group R-3 or R-5.

5. Change Section 5606.4 of the IFC to read as follows:

5606.4 Storage in residences. Propellants for personal use in quantities not exceeding 50 pounds (23 kg) of black powder or 100 pounds (45 kg) of smokeless powder shall be stored in original containers in occupancies limited to Groups R-3 and 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. In other than Group R-3 or R-5, smokeless powder in quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) but not exceeding 50 pounds (23 kg) shall be kept in a wooden box or cabinet having walls of at least one inch (25 mm) nominal thickness or equivalent.

6. Delete Sections 5606.4.1 and 5606.4.2 of the IFC.

7. Change 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 Section 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 pounds (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 walls 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 warehouse or storage room is not open to unauthorized personnel.

3.2. Smokeless 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 three feet (914 mm) of vertical separation between shelves.

3.3. No more than 400 pounds (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 twice 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), two-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 one 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 shall be stored in a Type 2 or 4 magazine in accordance with Section 5604 and NFPA 495.

H. Change Section 308.2 of the IBC to read:

308.2 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, shall be classified as the occupancy condition indicated in Section 308.2.1 or 308.2.2. Assisted living facilities licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services shall be classified as one of the occupancy conditions indicated in Section 308.2.1 or 308.2.2.

I. Change Sections 308.2.1 and 308.2.2 of the IBC to read:

308.2.1 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 level of exit discharge and the path of egress to the exit does not include steps.

308.2.2 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. Five of the residents may require physical assistance from more than one staff member to respond to an emergency.

J. Change Section 308.3 of the IBC to read:

308.3 Institutional Group I-2. This occupancy shall include buildings and structures used for medical care on a 24-hour basis for more than five persons who are incapable of self-preservation.

K. Add an exception to Section 308.5 of the IBC to read:

Exception: Family day homes under Section 313.3.

L. Change Sections 310.1 and 310.2 of the IBC to read:

310.1 Residential Group R. Residential Group R includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or portion thereof, for sleeping purposes when not classified as an Institutional Group I or when not regulated by the IRC. Group R occupancies not constructed in accordance with the IRC as permitted by Section 310.4.2 shall comply with Section 420.

310.2 Residential Group R-1. Residential occupancies containing sleeping units or more than two dwelling units, and:

1. The occupants are primarily transient, and

2. There are more than 10 occupants.

M. Change Section 310.3 of the IBC to read:

Residential Group R-2. Residential occupancies containing sleeping units or more than two dwelling units where the occupants are not primarily transient.

N. Change Sections 310.4, 310.4.1, 310.4.2, 310.5, and 310.5.1 and add Section 310.5.3 of the IBC to read:

310.4 Residential Group R-3. Residential occupancies containing no more than two dwelling units and where the occupancy is not classified as Group R-1, R-2, R-4, R-5, or I, and:

1. The occupants are not primarily transient, or

2. There are no more than 10 transient occupants per dwelling unit.

310.4.1 Radon-resistant construction. Group R-3 buildings and structures shall be subject to the radon-resistant construction requirements in Appendix F of the IRC in localities enforcing such requirements pursuant to Section R331 of the IRC.

310.4.2 Lodging houses. Owner-occupied or proprietor-occupied lodging houses and other transient boarding facilities not more than three stories above grade plane in height, with five or fewer guest rooms and 10 or fewer total occupants shall be 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.

310.5 Residential Group R-4. Residential occupancies with 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. Buildings 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 310.5. Assisted living facilities licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services shall be classified as one of the occupancy conditions indicated in Section 310.5.1 or 310.5.2.

310.5.1 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 or, in which 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 reside on a level of exit discharge and the path of egress to the exit does not include steps.

310.5.3 Radon-resistant construction. Group R-4 buildings and structures shall be subject to the radon-resistant construction requirements in Appendix F of the VRC in localities enforcing such requirements pursuant to Section R331 of the VRC.

O. Add Section 310.6 to the IBC to read:

310.6 Residential Group R-5. Residential Group R-5 occupancies shall include residential occupancies within the scope of Section 310.6.1 and manufactured homes in accordance with the Virginia Manufactured Home Safety Regulations (13VAC5-91).

310.6.1 Virginia Residential Code. The provisions of the IRC for detached one-family and two-family dwellings and townhouses as amended by VCC Section 310.8, also referred to as the Virginia Residential Code (VRC) printed by the ICC, shall apply to construction, rehabilitation, and demolition of the types of buildings and structures listed in this subsection, and the equipment therein, provided the building or structure is not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress:

1. Detached single-family and two-family dwellings.

2. Townhouses.

3. Care facilities for five or fewer people.

4. Owner-occupied or proprietor-occupied lodging houses with no more than five guest rooms and 10 or fewer total occupants.

5. Accessory structures of Group R-5 occupancies.

6. Other occupancies specifically permitted in this code to be classified as Group R-5.

All references to the IRC in the IBC shall be considered to be references to this section.

P. Add Section 310.6.1.1 to the IBC to read:

310.6.1.1 Additional requirements. Methods of construction, materials, systems, equipment, or components for Group R-5 structures not addressed by prescriptive or performance provisions of the VRC shall comply with applicable VCC requirements.

Q. Add Section 310.7 to the IBC to read:

310.7 Radon-resistant construction in Groups R-3 and R-4 structures. Groups R-3 and R-4 structures shall be subject to the radon-resistant construction requirements in Appendix F of the IRC in localities enforcing such requirements pursuant to Section R331 of the IRC.

R. Add Section 310.8 to the IBC to read:

310.8 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:

Accessory dwelling unit. A dwelling unit in a two-family dwelling that is accessory to the primary dwelling unit. An accessory dwelling unit provides for separate living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation facilities for one or more occupants but may share living space, means of egress, utilities, or other components. An accessory dwelling unit fully complies with the requirements of this code for a dwelling unit except where specified otherwise.

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.

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 water closets, urinals, irrigation, mechanical equipment, and hose connections to perform operations, such as vehicle washing and lawn maintenance.

Nonpotable water systems. Water systems for the collection, treatment, storage, distribution, and use or reuse of nonpotable water. Nonpotable systems include reclaimed water, rainwater, and gray water systems.

Rainwater. Natural precipitation, including snow melt, from roof surfaces only.

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.

Substantial damage. 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.

Substantial Improvement. Any repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, alteration, addition, or other improvement of a building or structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50% of the market value of the structure before the improvement or repair is started. If the structure has sustained substantial damage, any repairs are considered substantial improvement regardless of the actual repair work performed. The term does not, however, include either:

1. Any project for improvement of a building required to correct existing health, sanitary, or safety code violations identified by the building official and that are the minimum necessary to assure safe living conditions.

2. Any alteration of a historic structure, provided that the alteration will not preclude the building or structure's continued designation as a historic structure.

Two-family dwelling. A dwelling that includes two dwelling units or one dwelling unit and one accessory dwelling unit.

2. Change the following definitions to read:

Dwelling. Any building that contains one or two dwelling units or one dwelling unit and one accessory dwelling unit used, intended, or designed to be built, used, rented, leased, let, or hired out to be occupied or that are occupied for living purposes.

Flood hazard area. The greater of the following two areas:

1. The area within a floodplain subject to a 1.0% or greater chance of flooding in any given year (also known as the 100-year floodplain).

2. The area designated as a flood hazard area on a community's flood hazard map or otherwise legally designated, including areas shown in either the Flood Insurance Study or on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) and including areas added to account for future flooding conditions based on the locally adopted sea level rise projected to occur by 2070.

Gray water. Water discharged from lavatories, bathtubs, showers, clothes washers, and laundry trays.

Manufactured home. A structure subject to federal regulation that 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.

3. Add the following paragraph to the end of Section R301.2.1 to read:

Wind speeds for localities 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 ultimate design wind speed of 140 mph (62.6 m/s) and areas lower than 4,000 feet in elevation shall use the ultimate design wind speed of 110 mph (49.2 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 26.5.2 of ASCE 7.

4. Add 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 structures on adjacent lots from being closer than 10 feet (3048 mm) to each other at any point along the exterior walls.

5. Change the Projections row of table R302.1(1) to remove the top row and change the Minimum Fire Separation Distance for Fire-resistance rated Exterior Wall Elements to less than five feet.

6. Change Exception 6 to Section R302.2.6 to read:

6. Townhouse units protected by a fire sprinkler system complying with Section P2904, NFPA 13, NFPA 13R, or NFPA 13D.

7. Change Section R302.3, including Exception 1, and add Exception 3 to read (Exception 2 remains):

Dwelling units in two-family dwellings shall be separated from each other by wall and floor assemblies having not less than a one-hour fire-resistance rating where tested in accordance with ASTM E119, UL 263, or Section 703.2.2 of the International Building Code. Fire-resistance-rated floor or ceiling and wall assemblies shall extend to and be tight against the exterior wall, and wall assemblies shall extend from the foundation to the underside of the roof sheathing. Dwelling unit separation wall assemblies that are constructed on a lot line shall be constructed as required in Section R302.2 for townhouses.

1. A fire-resistance rating of 1/2 hour shall be permitted in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with NFPA 13, NFPA 13R, or Section P2904.

3. Fire resistant rated assemblies are not required to separate a dwelling unit and accessory dwelling unit where both units are located on the same lot and comply with Sections R314.7 and R315.5.

8. 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) thick, solid or honeycomb-core steel doors not less than 1-3/8 inches (35 mm) thick, or 20-minute fire-rated doors.

9. Delete Section R302.13 in its entirety.

10. Add an exception to Section R303.10 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.

11. Add Section R303.10.1 to read:

R303.10.1 Nonowner occupied required heating. Every dwelling unit or portion thereof that is to be rented, leased, or let on terms either expressed or implied to furnish heat to the occupants thereof shall be provided with facilities in accordance with Section R303.10 during the period from October 15 to May 1.

12. Add Section R303.11 to read:

R303.11 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.

13. Add Section R306.5 to read:

R306.5 Water supply sources and sewage disposal systems. The water and drainage system of any building or premises where plumbing fixtures are installed shall be connected to a public or private water supply and a public or private sewer system. As provided for in Section 103.5 of Part I of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (13VAC5-63), for functional design, water supply sources and sewage disposal systems are regulated and approved by the Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia 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.

14. Change Section R308.4.5 to read:

R308.4.5 Glazing and wet surfaces. Glazing in walls, enclosures, or fences containing or facing hot tubs, spas, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs, showers, and indoor or outdoor swimming pools shall be considered a hazardous location if located less than 60 inches (1524 mm) measured horizontally, in a straight line, from the water's edge and the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) measured vertically above any standing or walking surface. This shall apply to single glazing and each pane in multiple glazing.

15. Change Section R310.1, including Exception 2 to read (Exceptions 1 and 3 remain):

R310.1 Emergency escape and rescue opening required. Basements, habitable attics, and every sleeping room designated on the construction documents shall have not less than one operable emergency escape and rescue opening. Where basements contain one or more sleeping rooms, an emergency egress and rescue opening shall be required in each sleeping room. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall open directly into a public way, or to a yard or court having a minimum width of 36 inches (914 mm) that opens to a public way.

2. Dwelling units equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with NFPA 13, NFPA 13R, or NFPA 13D or Section P2904.

16. Delete Section R310.2.2 and change Section R310.2.1 to read:

R310.2.1 Minimum opening area. Emergency and escape rescue openings shall have a net clear opening of not less than 5.7 square feet (0.530 m²). The net clear opening dimensions required by this section shall be obtained by the normal operation of the emergency escape and rescue opening from the inside, including the tilting or removal of the sash as the normal operation. The net clear height opening shall be not less than 24 inches (610 mm), and the net clear width shall be not less than 20 inches (508 mm).

Exception: Grade floor or below grade openings shall have a net clear opening of not less than five square feet (0.465 m²).

17. Change Section R311.1 to read:

R311.1 Means of egress. Dwellings and each dwelling unit in a two-family dwelling shall be provided with a means of egress in accordance with this section. The means of egress shall provide a continuous and unobstructed path of vertical and horizontal egress travel from all portions of the dwelling to the required egress door without requiring travel through a garage. The required egress door shall open directly into a public way or to a yard or court that opens to a public way.

18. Change the exception to Section R311.3.1 to read:

Exception: The landing or floor on the exterior side shall be not 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.

19. Change Section R311.3.2 to read:

R311.3.2 Floor elevations for other exterior doors. Doors other than the required egress door shall be provided with landings or floors not more than 8-1/4 inches (210 mm) below the top of the threshold.

Exception: A top landing is not required where a stairway of not more than two risers is located on the exterior side of the door, provided that the door does not swing over the stairway.

20. Change Section R311.7.5.1 to read:

R311.7.5.1 Risers. The 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 underside of the nosing of the tread above at an angle not more than 30 degrees (0.51 rad) from the vertical. Open risers are permitted, provided that the openings located more than 30 inches ( 762 mm), as measured vertically, to the floor or grade below do not permit the passage of a four-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere.

Exceptions:

1. The opening between adjacent treads is not limited on spiral stairways.

2. The riser height of spiral stairways shall be in accordance with Section R311.7.10.1.

21. Change Section R311.7.5.2 to read:

R311.7.5.2 Treads. The tread depth shall be not less than nine 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).

22. Change Section R312.2.1 to read ( items 1 and 2 remain):

R312.2.1 Window sills. In dwelling units, where the top of the sill of an operable window opening is located 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 operable window shall comply with one of the following:

23. Replace Section R313 with the following:

Section R313. Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems.

R313.1 Townhouse automatic fire sprinkler systems. Notwithstanding the requirements of Section 103.3, where installed, an automatic residential fire sprinkler system for townhouses shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 13D or Section P2904.

Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required when additions or alterations are made to existing townhouses that do not have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system installed.

R313.1.1 Design and installation. Automatic residential fire sprinkler systems for townhouses shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section P2904 or NFPA 13D, NFPA 13, or NFPA 13R.

R313.2 One-family and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems. Notwithstanding the requirements of Section 103.3, where installed, an automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section P2904, or NFPA 13D, NFPA 13, or NFPA 13R.

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.

R313.2.1 Design and installation. Automatic residential fire sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section P2904 or NFPA 13D, 13, or 13R.

24. Delete Section R314.2.2.

25. Delete Exception 2 and change Exception 1 to Section R314.6 to read:

Exception:

Smoke alarms shall be permitted to be battery operated with a minimum 10-year battery where installed in buildings without commercial power.

26. Change Section R314.7 to read:

R314.7 Fire alarm systems. A fire alarm system complying with Sections R314.7.1 through R314.7.4 shall be installed within a two-family dwelling that is constructed without fire separations in accordance with Exception 3 of Section R302.3 and shall be installed in such a manner that the actuation of an alarm will activate all notification appliances within both dwelling units. Fire alarm systems shall be permitted to be used in other dwelling units in lieu of smoke alarms and shall comply with Sections R314.7.1 through R314.7.4.

27. Change Section 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.

28. Change Section R315.1.1 to read:

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 shall be listed in accordance with UL 2034 and UL 217.

29. Change Section R315.2 to read:

R315.2 Where required. Carbon monoxide alarms shall be provided in accordance with this section.

30. Delete Section R315.2.2.

31. Change Section R315.5 to read (exception remains):

R315.5 Interconnectivity. Where more than one carbon monoxide alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit in accordance with Section R315.3, the alarm devices shall be interconnected in such a manner that the actuation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the dwelling. Alarm devices within a two-family dwelling constructed without fire separations in accordance with Exception 3 of Section R302.3 shall be interconnected in such a manner that the actuation of one alarm within either unit will activate all alarms within both dwelling units. Physical interconnection of carbon monoxide alarms shall not be required where listed wireless alarms are installed and all alarms sound upon activation of one alarm.

32. Delete Section R315.6.

33. Change Section R315.7.3 to read:

R315.7.3 Permanent fixture. Where a household carbon monoxide detection system is installed, it shall become a permanent fixture of the occupancy.

34. Add Section R320.3 to read:

R320.3 Universal design features for accessibility in dwellings. Dwellings constructed under the IRC not subject to Section R320.1 may comply with Section 1110.17 of the USBC and be approved by the local building department as dwellings containing universal design features for accessibility.

35. Change Sections R322.1.5, R322.1.8, and R322.2 to read:

R322.1.5 Lowest floor. The lowest floor shall be the lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area, including basement and excluding any unfinished flood-resistant enclosure that is usable solely for vehicle parking, building access, or limited (200 square feet or less) storage, provided that such enclosure is not built so as to render the building or structure in violation of this section.

R322.1.8 Flood-resistant materials. Building materials and installation methods used for flooring and interior and exterior walls and wall coverings below the elevation required in Section R322.2 or R322.3 shall be flood damage-resistant materials that conform to the provisions of FEMA TB-2 and ASCE 24.

R322.2 Flood hazard areas (including A Zones). Areas that have been determined to be prone to flooding and that are not subject to high-velocity wave action shall be designated as flood hazard areas. Flood hazard areas that have been delineated as subject to wave heights greater than or equal to 1-1/2 feet (457 mm) or otherwise designated by the jurisdiction shall be designated as either Coastal A Zones or V, VE, or V1-30 Zones and are subject to the requirements of Section R322.3. Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in flood hazard areas shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections R322.2.1 through R322.2.4.

36. Change Item 4.2 of Section R322.2.1 to read (exception and other items remain):

R322.2.1 Elevation requirements.

4.2 They shall be at or above grade on not less than one side. Where a garage or carport is enclosed by walls, the garage or carport shall be used solely for parking, building access, or storage, and the walls shall be constructed of flood resistant materials.

37. Change Section R322.3.1 to read:

R322.3.1 Location and site preparation.

1. New buildings and buildings that are determined to be substantially improved shall be located landward of the reach of mean high tide.

2. For any alteration of sand dunes and mangrove stands, the building official shall require submission of an engineering analysis and a satisfactory Comment Document from FEMA for a Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) that demonstrates that the proposed alteration will not increase the potential for flood damage.

38. Change Sections R322.3.6 and R322.3.10 to read:

R322.3.6 Enclosed areas below required elevation. Enclosed areas lower than the design flood elevation required in Section R322.3.2 are prohibited in Coastal A Zones and Coastal High Hazard Areas.

R322.3.10 Tanks. Underground tanks are prohibited in Coastal A Zones or Coastal High Hazard Areas. Aboveground tanks shall be installed at or above the design flood elevation required in Section R322.3.2. Where elevated on platforms, the platforms shall be cantilevered from or knee braced to the building or shall be supported on foundations that conform to the requirements of Section R322.3.

39. Change Section R324.6.2 to read:

R324.6.2 Setback at ridge. Not less than an 18-inch (457 mm) clear setback is required on both sides of a horizontal ridge.

40. Change Exception 1 and delete Exceptions 1.1, 1.2, 3, and 4 to Section R326.3 to read (Exception 2 remains):

R326.3 Story above grade plane. A habitable attic shall be considered a story above grade plane.

Exceptions: A habitable attic shall not be considered to be a story above grade plane provided that the habitable attic meets all the following:

1. The aggregate area of the habitable attic is not greater than two-thirds of the floor area of the story below or a maximum of 400 square feet.

41. Add Section R331 Radon-Resistant Construction.

42. Add Section R331.1 to read:

R331.1 Local enforcement of radon requirements. Following official action under Article 7 (§ 15.2-2280 et seq.) of Chapter 22 of Title 15.2 of the Code of Virginia by a locality in areas of high radon potential, as indicated by Zone 1 on the U.S. EPA Map of Radon Zones (IRC Figure AF101), such locality shall enforce the provisions contained in Appendix AF.

Exception: Buildings or portions thereof with crawl space foundations that are ventilated to the exterior shall not be required to provide radon-resistant construction.

43. Add Section R332 Patio Covers.

44. Add Section R332.1 to read:

R332.1 Use of Appendix AH for patio covers. Patio covers shall comply with the provisions in Appendix AH.

45. Add Section R333 Sound Transmission.

46. Add Section R333.1 to read:

R333.1 Sound transmission between dwelling units. Construction assemblies separating dwelling units shall provide airborne sound insulation as required in Appendix AK.

Exception: Accessory dwelling units.

47. Add Section R333.2 to read:

R333.2 Airport noise attenuation. This section applies to the construction of the exterior envelope of detached one-family and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories high with separate means of egress within airport noise zones when enforced by a locality pursuant to § 15.2-2295 of the Code of Virginia. The exterior envelope of such structures shall comply with Section 1206.4 of the state amendments to the IBC.

48. Add Section R334 Fire Extinguishers.

49. Add Section R334.1 to read:

R334.1 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.

50. Add Section R335 Interior Passage.

51. Add Sections R335.1 through R335.6 to read:

R335.1 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.

R335.2 Kitchen. One interior passage route from the egress door to the kitchen shall comply with R335.6.

R335.3 Living area. One interior passage route from the egress door to at least one living area shall comply with R335.6.

R335.4 Bedroom. Where the dwelling unit has a bedroom on the same floor level as the egress door, one interior passage route from the egress door to at least one bedroom shall comply with R335.6.

R335.5 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 R335.6. Bathroom fixture clearances shall comply with R307 and access to fixtures is not required to comply with R335.6.

R335.6 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.

52. Add Section R336 Tiny Houses.

53. Add Section R336.1 to read:

R336.1 General. Appendix AQ may be used as an alternative to the requirements of this code where a dwelling is 400 square feet (37 m²) or less in floor area.

54. Change Section R401.3 to read:

R401.3 Drainage. Surface drainage shall be diverted to a storm sewer conveyance or other approved point of collection that does not create a hazard to the dwelling unit. Lots shall be graded to drain surface water away 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 1.0% away from the building.

55. Add the following exceptions to Section R403.1 to read:

Exceptions:

1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, not exceeding 256 square feet ( 24 m²) of building area, provided that 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 (457 mm).

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 anchored to withstand wind loads as required by this code.

1.5. The structure shall be of light-frame construction whose vertical and horizontal structural elements are primarily formed by a system of repetitive wood or light gauge steel framing members, with walls and roof of light weight material, not slate, tile, brick, or masonry.

2. Footings are not required for ramps serving dwelling units in Groups R-3 and R-5 occupancies where the height of the entrance is no more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade.

56. Change Section R403.1.6 to read (exceptions remain):

R403.1.6 Foundation anchorage. Wood sill plates and wood walls supported directly on continuous foundations shall be anchored to the foundation in accordance with this section.

Cold-formed steel framing shall be anchored directly to the foundation or fastened to wood sill plates in accordance with Section R505.3.1 or R603.3.1, as applicable. Wood sill plates supporting cold-formed steel framing shall be anchored to the foundation in accordance with this section.

Wood foundation plates or sills shall be bolted or anchored to the foundation with not less than 1/2-inch-diameter (12.7 mm) steel bolts or approved anchors spaced to provide equivalent anchorage as the steel bolts. Bolts shall be embedded not less than seven inches (178 mm) into concrete or grouted cells of concrete masonry units. The centerline of the bolts shall be located a minimum of 1.75 inches (44.5mm) from the edge of the sill plate. Bolts shall be spaced not more than six feet (1829 mm) on center and there shall be not less than two bolts or anchor straps per piece with one bolt or anchor strap located not more than 12 inches (305 mm) or less than four inches (102 mm) from each end of each piece. A properly sized nut and washer shall be tightened on each bolt to the plate. Interior bearing wall sole plates on monolithic slab foundation that are not part of a braced wall panel shall be positively anchored with approved fasteners. Sill plates and sole plates shall be protected against decay and termites where required by Sections R317 and R318. Anchor bolts shall be permitted to be located while concrete is still plastic and before it has set. Where anchor bolts resist placement or the consolidation of concrete around anchor bolts is impeded, the concrete shall be vibrated to ensure full contact between the anchor bolts and concrete.

57. Delete Section R404.1.9.2.

58. Change Item 2.4 in Section R408.3 to read:

2.4. Dehumidification sized to provide 70 pints (33 liters) of moisture removal per day for every 1,000 square feet (93 m²) of crawl space floor area.

59. Add Section R408.3.1 to read:

R408.3.1 Termite inspection. Where an unvented crawl space is installed and meets the criteria in Section R408, the vertical face of the sill plate shall be clear and unobstructed and an inspection gap shall be provided below the sill plate along the top of any interior foundation wall 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.

2. Where other approved means are provided to inspect for potential damage.

Where pier and curtain foundations are installed as depicted in Figure R404.1.5.3, the inside face of the rim joist and sill plate shall be clear and unobstructed except for construction joints, which may be sealed.

Exception: Fiberglass or similar insulation may be installed if easily removable.

60. Change Section R506.2.1 to read:

R506.2.1 Fill. Fill material shall be free of vegetation and foreign material and shall be natural nonorganic material that 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 eight 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.

61. Change Section R506.2.2 to read:

R506.2.2 Base. A four-inch-thick (102 mm) base course consisting of clean graded sand, gravel, or crushed stone passing a two-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.

62. 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 permitted to waive the analysis of the upper floors where the cumulative length of wall openings of each upper floor wall is less than or equal to the length of the openings of the wall directly below.

63. Add an exception to Section R602.10.9 to read:

Exception: For masonry stem walls, an approved post-installed adhesive anchoring system shall be permitted as an alternative to the Optional Stem Wall Reinforcement detail in Figure R602.10.9. A minimum of two anchors shall be installed as indicated in Figure R602.10.9. Anchors shall be located not more than four inches (102 mm) from each end of the stem wall. Anchors shall be installed into the concrete footing as follows:

1. Five-eighth inch (16 mm) treaded rod using a 3/4 inch (19 mm) diameter drilled hole with a minimum embedment of six inches (152 mm).

2. Number 4 size reinforcing bar using a 5/8-inch (16 mm) diameter drilled hole with a minimum embedment of 4-1/2 inches (114 mm).

A minimum footing thickness of eight inches (203 mm) is required and the minimum distance from each anchor to the edge of the footing shall be 3-3/4 inches (95 mm). The anchoring adhesive and anchors shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and have a minimum tensile capacity of 5,000 lbs. (22 kN). The bond beam reinforcement and attachment of braced wall panels to the stem wall shall be as shown in Figure R602.10.9.

64. Replace Section R602.12, including all subsections, with the following:

R602.12 Practical wall bracing. All buildings in Seismic Design Categories A and B and detached buildings in Seismic Design Category C shall be permitted to be braced in accordance with this section as an alternative to the requirements of Section R602.10. Where a building, or portion thereof, does not comply with one or more of the bracing requirements in this section, those portions shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Section R301.1. The use of other bracing provisions of Section R602.10, except as specified in this section, shall not be permitted.

The building official shall be permitted to require the permit applicant to identify bracing on the construction documents and provide associated analysis. The building official shall be permitted to 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.

R602.12.1 Sheathing materials. The following materials shall be permitted for use as sheathing for wall bracing. Exterior walls shall be sheathed on all sheathable surfaces, including infill areas between bracing locations, above and below wall openings, and on gable end walls.

1. Wood structural panels with a minimum 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 Table R702.3.5 on interior walls only.

R602.12.2 Braced wall panels. Braced wall panels shall be full-height wall sections sheathed with the materials listed in Section R602.12.1 and complying with the following:

1. Exterior braced wall panels shall have a minimum length based on the height of the adjacent opening as specified in Table R602.12.2. Panels with openings on both sides of differing heights shall be governed by the taller opening when determining panel 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 permitted 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 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 sheathing 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.

R602.12.3 Circumscribed rectangle. Required length of bracing shall be determined by circumscribing one or more rectangles around the entire building or portions thereof as shown in Figure R602.12.3. Rectangles shall surround all enclosed offsets and projections, 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 the sum of the required lengths from all shared rectangle sides.

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 in Items 1, 2, and 3 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 they face up to four feet (1220 mm) away. Interior braced wall panels more than four 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.

R602.12.4.2 Contributing length. The cumulative contributing length of braced wall panels assigned to a rectangle side shall be greater than or equal to the required length of bracing as determined in Section R602.12.4. The contributing length of a braced wall panel shall be as specified in Items I, 2, and 3. When applying contributing length to angled braced wall panels, apply the requirements in Items I, 2, and 3 to each projection:

1. Exterior braced wall panels shall contribute their actual length.

2. Interior braced wall panels shall 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 skewed rectangles intersect, as shown in Figure R602.12.4.3, shall be permitted to be assigned to the parallel rectangle side, and their projections shall be permitted to be assigned to the adjacent skewed rectangle sides.

R602.12.5 Cripple walls and framed walls of walk-out basements. For rectangle sides with cripple walls having a maximum height of 48 inches (1220 mm), the required length of bracing shall be as determined in Section R602.12.4. For rectangle sides with cripple walls having a height greater than 48 inches (1220 mm) at any location or framed walls of a walk-out basement, the required length of bracing shall be determined using Table R602.12.4. Braced wall panels within cripple walls and walls of walk-out basements shall comply with Item 4 of Section R602.12.2.

R602.12.6 Distribution of braced wall panels. Braced wall panels shall be distributed in accordance with the following requirements as shown in Figure R602.12.6.

1. The edge of a braced wall panel shall be no more than 12 feet (3658 mm) from any building corner or rectangle corner.

2. The distance between adjacent edges of braced wall panels shall be no more than 20 feet (6096 mm).

3. Segments of exterior walls greater than eight feet (2438 mm) in length shall have a minimum of one braced wall panel.

4. Segments of exterior wall eight feet (2438 mm) or less in length shall be permitted to have no braced wall panels.

R602.12.6.1 Panels adjacent to balloon framed walls. Braced wall panels shall be placed on each side of each story adjacent to balloon framed walls designed in accordance with Section R602.3 with a maximum height of two stories.

R602.12.7 Braced wall panel 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.

65. Delete Section R905.2.8.5.

66. 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 total minimum thickness of front, back, and side walls shall be eight 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 two inches (51 mm) thick or a lining of vitrified clay at least 5/8 inch (16 mm) thick is provided, the total minimum thickness of front, back, and side walls shall be six inches (152 mm) of solid masonry, including the lining. Firebrick shall conform to ASTM C 1261 and shall be laid with medium duty refractory mortar conforming to ASTM C 199. Vitrified clay linings shall conform to ASTM C 315.

67. Change the wood frame wall R-value categories for Climate Zones 3A, 4A, and 5A in Table N1102.1.3 (R402.1.3) to read:

68. Change the frame wall U-factor categories for Climate Zones 3A, 4A, and 5A in Table N1102.1.2 (R402.1.2) to read:

69. Change Section N1102.2.4 (R402.2.4) to read:

N1102.2.4 (R402.2.4) Access hatches and doors. Access doors from conditioned spaces to unconditioned spaces (e.g., attics and crawl spaces) shall be weatherstripped and insulated in accordance with the following values:

1. Hinged vertical doors shall have a minimum overall R-5 insulation value;

2. Hatches and scuttle hole covers shall be insulated to a level equivalent to the insulation on the surrounding surfaces; and

3. Pull down stairs shall have a minimum of 75% of the panel area having R-5 rigid insulation.

Access shall be provided to all equipment that prevents damaging or compressing the insulation. A wood framed or equivalent baffle or retainer is required to be provided when loose fill insulation is installed, the purpose of which is to prevent the loose fill insulation from spilling into the living space when the attic access is opened and to provide a permanent means of maintaining the installed R-value of the loose fill insulation.

70. Change the title of the "Insulation Installation Criteria" category of Table N1102.4.1.1 (R402.4.1.1); change the "Shower/tub on exterior wall" category of Table N1102.4.1.1 (R402.4.1.1), and add footnotes "c" and "d" to Table N1102.4.1.1 (R402.4.1.1) to read:

71. Change Section N1102.4.1.2 (R402.4.1.2) to read (exception remains):

N1102.4.1.2 (R402.4.1.2) Testing. The building or dwelling unit shall be tested and verified as having an air leakage rate not exceeding five air changes per hour in Climate Zone 4. Testing shall be conducted in accordance with RESNET/ICC 380, ASTM E 779, or ASTM E 1827 and reported at a pressure of 0.2 inches w.g. (50 Pa). 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 conducted by a Virginia licensed general contractor, a Virginia licensed HVAC contractor, a Virginia licensed home inspector, a Virginia registered design professional, a certified BPI Envelope Professional, a certified Home Energy Rating System (HERS) rater, or a certified duct and envelope tightness rater. The party conducting the test shall have been trained on the equipment used to perform the test. Testing shall be performed at any time after creation of all penetrations of the building thermal envelope.

Note: Should additional sealing be required as a result of the test, consideration may be given to the issuance of temporary certificate of occupancy in accordance with Section 116.1.1.

During testing:

1. Exterior windows and doors and fireplace and stove doors shall be closed, but not sealed beyond the intended weatherstripping or other infiltration control measures;

2. Dampers, including exhaust, intake, makeup air, backdraft, and flue dampers, shall be closed but not sealed beyond intended infiltration control 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.

72. Change Section N1102.4.1.3 (R402.4.1.3) to read:

R402.4.1.3 Leakage rate. When complying with Section N1101.2.1 (R401.2.1), the building or dwelling unit shall have an air leakage rate not exceeding 5.0 air changes per hour in Climate Zones 3, 4, and 5 when tested in accordance with Section N1102.4.1.2 (R402.4.1.2).

73. Add Section N1103.1.3 (R403.1.3) to read:

R403.1.3 Heat pump as primary space heat source. Electric resistance heat shall not be used as the primary heat source for electric space heating if a ducted or ductless heat pump can be installed. Electric resistance space heating may be used for defrost, supplemental, or emergency heat. A heat pump shall be designed so that, except during defrost or emergency heating modes, supplemental heating does not energize unless the outdoor temperature is below 40ºF (4ºC).

74. Change the last paragraph of Section N1103.3.5 (R403.3.5) to read:

A written report of the results of the test shall be signed by the party conducting the test and provided to the code official. The licensed mechanical contractor installing the mechanical system shall be permitted to perform the duct testing. The contractor shall have been trained on the equipment used to perform the test.

75. Change Section N1103.3.7 (R403.3.7) to read:

N1103.3.7 (R403.3.7) Building cavities. Building framing cavities used as ducts or plenums shall comply with VRC Section M1601.1.1.

76. Change Section N1103.7 (R403.7) to read:

N1103.7 (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 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 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.

77. Change Section N1106.3.2 (R406.3.2) to read:

Section N1106.3.2 (R406.3.2) Onsite renewables are included. When onsite renewable energy is included for compliance using the Energy Rating Index (ERI) analysis per Section N1106.4 (R406.4), the building thermal envelope shall be greater than or equal to levels of energy efficiency and solar heat gain coefficient in Table N1102.1.2 (R402.1.2), with a ceiling U-factor of 0.026 and a frame wall U-factor of 0.060, or Table N1102.1.3 (R402.1.3), with a ceiling R-value of 49 and a wood frame wall R-value of 20 or 13+5.

78. Change Section N1109.1 (R501.1) and delete Sections N1109.1.1 (R501.1.1) through N1109.6 (R501.6).

N1109.1 (R501.1) Scope. The provisions of the Virginia Existing Building Code shall control the alteration, repair, addition, and change of occupancy of existing buildings and structures.

79. Change Section N1110.1 (R502.1) and delete Sections N1110.2 (R502.2) through N1110.3.4 (R502.3.4).

N1110.1 (R502.1) General. Additions to an existing building, building system, or portion thereof shall conform to the provisions of Section 805 of the VEBC.

80. Change Section N1111.1 (R503.1) and delete Sections N1111.1.1 (R503.1.1) through N1111.1.4 (R503.1.4).

N1111.1 (R503.1) General. Alterations to any building or structure shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 6 of the VEBC.

81. Change Section N1112.1 (R504.1) and delete Section N1112.2 (R504.2).

N1112.1 (R504.1) General. Buildings and structures, and parts thereof, shall be repaired in compliance with Section 507 of the VEBC.

82. 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 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 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.

83. Change Section M1404.1 to read:

M1404.1 Compliance. Refrigeration cooling equipment shall comply with UL 474, UL484, UL1995, or UL/CSA 60335-2-40.

84. Add Sections M1411.1.1 through M1411.1.6 to read:

M1411.1.1 Refrigeration system listing. Refrigeration systems using Group A2L refrigerants shall be listed and labeled to UL 60335-2-40/CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 60335-2-40. Refrigeration systems using Group A1 refrigerants shall be listed to UL 60335-2-40/CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 6-335-2-40 or UL 1995/CSA C22.2 No. 236. The equipment shall be installed in accordance with the listing.

M1411.1.2 Refrigeration system installation. Refrigeration systems shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. After installation, the manufacturer's installation instructions, owner's manuals, service manuals, and any other product literature provided with the equipment shall be attached to the indoor unit or left with the homeowner.

M1411.1.3 Field installed accessories. All Field installed accessories shall be installed in accordance with the accessory and equipment manufacturer's installation instructions. Accessories installed in the ductwork of Group A2L refrigeration systems shall not contain electric heating elements, open flames, or devices switching electrical loads greater than 2.5 kVA.

M1411.1.4 Signs and identification. Each refrigeration system using Group A2L refrigerant shall have the following information legibly and permanently indicated on a markable label provided by the equipment manufacturer.

1. Contact information of the responsible company that installed the refrigeration system, and

2. The system refrigerant charge and the refrigerant number.

M1411.1.5 Refrigerant charge. All refrigeration systems shall have refrigerant charge in compliance with the equipment manufacturer's installation instructions and the requirements of the listing. Group A2L refrigerant charge for an individual refrigeration system shall not exceed 34.5 lbs. (15.7 kg).

M1411.1.6 Group A2L refrigerant piping testing. The piping system containing Group A2L refrigerant shall be tested in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions and the requirements of the listing.

85. Add Section M1501.2 to read:

M1501.2 Transfer air. Air transferred from occupiable spaces other than kitchens, baths, and toilet rooms shall not be prohibited from serving as makeup air for exhaust systems. Transfer openings between spaces shall be of the same cross-sectional area as the free area of the makeup air openings. Where louvers and grilles are installed, the required size of openings shall be based on the net free area of each opening. Where the design and free area of louvers and grilles are not known, it shall be assumed that wood louvers will have 25% free area and metal louvers and grilles will have 75% free area.

86. Change Section M1502.4.2 to read:

M1502.4.2 Duct installation. Exhaust ducts shall be supported at four-foot (1219 mm) intervals and shall be secured in place. The insert end of the duct shall extend into the adjoining duct or fitting in the direction of airflow. Ducts shall not be joined with screws or similar fasteners that protrude into the inside of the duct. Where dryer exhaust ducts are enclosed in wall or ceiling cavities, such cavities shall allow the installation of the duct without deformation.

87. Change Section M1503.6 to read:

M1503.6 Makeup air required. Exhaust hood systems capable of exhausting more than 400 cubic feet per minute (0.19 m³/s) shall be provided with makeup air at a rate approximately equal to the exhaust air rate in excess of 400 cubic feet per minute (0.19 m³/s). Such makeup air systems shall be equipped with a means of closure and shall be automatically controlled to start and operate simultaneously with the exhaust system.

Exception: Intentional openings for makeup air are not required for kitchen exhaust systems capable of exhausting not greater than 600 cubic feet per minute (0.28 m³/s) provided that one of the following conditions is met:

1. Where the floor area within the air barrier of a dwelling unit is at least 1,500 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 3,000 square feet (278.71 m²), and where natural draft space-heating or water-heating appliances are not located within the air barrier.

88. Add an exception to Item 7 in Section M1602.2 to read:

Exception: The return air within a two-family dwelling constructed without fire separations in accordance with Exception 3 of Section R302.3 shall be permitted to discharge into either dwelling unit.

89. 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 shall be conducted to ensure that the connected vent or chimney systems comply with the following:

1. Vent or chimney systems are sized in accordance with this code.

2. Vent or chimney systems are clean, free of any obstruction or blockages, defects, or deterioration and are in operable condition.

Where not inspected by the local building department, persons performing such changes or installations shall certify to the building official that the requirements of Items 1 and 2 of this section are met.

90. 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 existing buildings, an inspection shall be conducted to ensure that the connected vent or chimney systems comply with the following:

1. Vent or chimney systems are sized in accordance with this code.

2. Vent or chimney systems are clean, free of any obstruction or blockages, defects, or deterioration and are in operable condition.

Where not inspected by the local building department, persons performing such changes or installations shall certify to the building official that the requirements of Items 1 and 2 of this section are met.

91. Change Section G2439.7.2 to read:

G2439.7.2 Duct installation. Exhaust ducts shall be supported at four-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. Where dryer exhaust ducts are enclosed in wall or ceiling cavities, such cavities shall allow the installation of the duct without deformation.

92. 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 provisions of Sections P2910, P2911, and P2912.

93. Change Section P2602.1 to read:

P2602.1 General. The water and drainage system of any building or premises where plumbing fixtures are installed shall be connected to a public or private water supply and a public or private sewer system. As provided for in Section 103.5 of Part I of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (13VAC5-63) for functional design, water supply sources and sewage disposal systems are regulated and approved by the Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia 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.

94. Add 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 utilized. The wire shall be installed in the same trench as the water service piping and within 12 inches (305 mm) of the pipe and shall be installed to within five feet (1524 mm) of the building wall to the point where the building water service pipe intersects with the public water supply. At a minimum, one end of the wire shall terminate above grade to provide access to the wire in a location that is resistant to physical damage, such as with a meter vault or at the building wall.

95. Change Section P2801.6 to read:

P2801.6 Required pan. Where a storage tank-type water heater or a hot water storage tank is installed in a location where water leakage from the tank will cause damage, the tank shall be installed in a pan constructed of one of the following:

1. Galvanized steel or aluminum of not less than 0.0236 inch (0.6010 mm) in thickness.

2. Plastic not less than 0.036 inch (0.9 mm) in thickness.

3. Other approved materials.

A plastic pan shall not be installed beneath a gas-fired water heater.

96. Add Section P2901.1.1 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 P2910, P2911, and P2912.

97. Change Section P2902.6 of the IRC to read:

P2902.6 Location of backflow preventers. Access for inspection, testing, service, repair, and replacement shall be provided to backflow prevention assemblies. Backflow prevention assemblies shall be installed between 12 inches (305 mm) and 60 inches (1525 mm) from grade, floor level or service platform and as specified by the manufacturer's instructions. Where the manufacturer's listed installation height conflicts with this requirement, the manufacturer's listed heights shall apply. Access shall be provided to backflow prevention devices and as specified by the manufacturer's instructions.

98. Change Section 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 otherwise approved. Water hammer arrestors shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. Water hammer arrestors shall conform to ASSE 1010.

99. Change Section P2904.1 to read:

P2904.1 General. The design and installation of residential fire sprinkler systems shall be in accordance with NFPA 13D, NFPA 13, NFPA 13R, or Section P2904, which shall be considered to be equivalent to NFPA 13D. Partial residential sprinkler systems shall be permitted to be installed only in buildings not required to be equipped with a residential sprinkler system. Section P2904 shall apply to stand-alone and multipurpose wet-pipe sprinkler systems that do not include the use of antifreeze. A multipurpose fire sprinkler system shall provide domestic water to both fire sprinklers and plumbing fixtures. A stand-alone sprinkler system shall be separate and independent from the water distribution system. A backflow preventer shall not be required to separate a sprinkler system from the water distribution system, provided that the sprinkler system complies with all of the following:

1. The system complies with NFPA 13D, NFPA 13, NFPA 13R, or Section P2904.

2. The piping material complies with Section P2906.

3. The system does not contain antifreeze.

4. The system does not have a fire department connection.

100. Change Section P2906.2.1 to read:

P2906.2.1 Lead content of drinking water pipe and fittings. Pipe, pipe fittings, joints, valves, faucets, and fixture fittings utilized to supply water for drinking or cooking purposes shall comply with NSF 372.

101. Change Section P2906.9.1.2 to read:

P2906.9.1.2 Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) plastic pipe. Joint surfaces shall be clean and free from moisture. Joints shall be made in accordance with the pipe, fitting or solvent cement manufacturer's installation instructions. Where such instructions require a primer to be used, an approved primer shall be applied, and a solvent cement, orange in color and conforming to ASTM F493, shall be applied to joint surfaces. Where such instructions allow for a one-step solvent cement, yellow, red or green in color and conforming to ASTM F493, to be used, the joint surfaces shall not require application of a primer before the solvent cement is applied. The joint shall be made while the cement is wet and in accordance with ASTM D2846 or ASTM F493. Solvent cement joints shall be permitted above ground or below ground.

102. Change Sections P2910.1 through P2910.14, including subsections, to read:

P2910.1 Scope. The provisions of this section shall govern the materials, design, construction, and installation of nonpotable water systems subject to this code.

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 P2911 or P2912, as applicable.

P2910.2 Makeup water. Makeup water shall be provided for all nonpotable water supply systems. The makeup water system shall be designed and installed to provide supply of water in the amounts and at the pressures specified in this code. The makeup water supply shall be potable and be protected against backflow in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section P2902.

P2910.2.1 Makeup water sources. Nonpotable water shall be permitted to serve as makeup water for gray water and rainwater systems.

P2910.2.2 Makeup water supply valve. A full-open valve shall be provided on the makeup water supply line.

P2910.2.3 Control valve alarm. Makeup water systems shall be fitted with a warning mechanism that alerts the user to a failure of the inlet control valve to close correctly. The alarm shall activate before the water within the storage tank begins to discharge into the overflow system.

P2910.3 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 this chapter.

P2910.4 Signage required. All nonpotable water outlets, other than water closets and urinals, such as hose connections, open ended pipes, and faucets shall be identified at the point of use for each outlet with signage that reads as follows: "Nonpotable water is utilized for (insert application name). Caution: nonpotable water. DO NOT DRINK." The words shall be legibly and indelibly printed on a tag or sign constructed of corrosion-resistant waterproof material or shall be indelibly printed on the fixture. The letters of the words shall be not less than 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) in height and in colors in contrast to the background on which they are applied. The pictograph shown in Figure P2910.4 shall appear on the signage required by this section.

P2910.5 Potable water supply system connections. Where a potable water supply system is connected to a nonpotable water system, the potable water supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section P2902.

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.

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.

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.

P2910.9 Freeze protection. Nonpotable water systems shall be protected from freezing in accordance with the applicable provisions of Chapter 26.

P2910.10 Nonpotable water storage tanks. Nonpotable water storage tanks shall be approved for the intended application and comply with Sections P2910.10.1 through P2910.10.12.

P2910.10.1 Sizing. The holding capacity of storage tanks shall be sized for the intended use.

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.

P2910.10.3 Outlets. Outlets shall be located at least four inches (102 mm) above the bottom of the storage tank and shall not skim water from the surface.

P2910.10.4 Materials and location. Storage tanks shall be constructed of material compatible with treatment systems used to treat water. Above grade storage vessels shall be constructed using opaque, UV-resistant materials, such as tinted plastic, lined metal, concrete, or wood or painted to prevent algae growth. Above grade storage tanks shall be protected from direct sunlight unless their design specifically incorporates the use of the sunlight heat transfer. Wooden storage tanks shall be provided with a flexible liner. Storage tanks and their manholes shall not be located directly under soil or waste piping or sources of contamination.

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.

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.

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.

P2910.10.6 Overflow. The storage tank shall be equipped with an overflow pipe having a diameter not less than that shown in Table P2910.10.6. The overflow outlet shall discharge at a point not less than six 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 P3005.2.

P2910.10.7 Access. A minimum of one access opening shall be provided to allow inspection and cleaning of the tank interior. Access openings shall have an approved locking device or other approved method of securing access. Below grade storage tanks, located outside of the building, shall be provided with either a manhole not less than 24 inches (610 mm) square or a manhole with an inside diameter not less than 24 inches (610 mm). The design and installation of access openings shall prohibit surface water from 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 eight inches (203 mm) in diameter to allow inspection and cleaning of the tank interior.

P2910.10.8 Venting. Storage tanks shall be vented. Vents shall not be connected to the sanitary drainage system. Vents shall be at least equal in size to the internal diameter of the drainage inlet pipe or pipes connected to the tank. Where installed at grade, vents shall be protected from contamination by means of a U-bend installed 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 shall terminate in accordance with the applicable provisions of Sections P3103 and P2910.8.

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 P2910.10.6. A minimum of one cleanout shall be provided on each drain pipe in accordance with Section P3005.2.

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 applied.

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 two inches (50.8 mm) below the makeup water offset point. The tank drain shall be observed for proper operation. The makeup water system shall be observed for proper operation, and successful automatic shutoff of the system at the refill threshold shall be verified. Water shall not be drained from the overflow at any time during the refill test.

4. Air tests shall be permitted in lieu of water testing as recommended by the tank manufacturer or the tank standard.

P2910.10.12 Structural strength. Storage tanks shall meet the applicable structural strength requirements of the IBC.

P2910.11 Trenching requirements for nonpotable water system piping. Underground nonpotable water system piping shall be horizontally separated from the building sewer and potable water piping by five feet (1524 mm) of undisturbed or compacted earth. Nonpotable water system piping shall not be located in, under, or above sewage systems cesspools, septic tanks, septic tank drainage fields, or seepage pits. Buried nonpotable water system piping shall comply with the requirements of this code for the piping material installed.

Exceptions:

1. The required separation distance shall not apply where the bottom of the nonpotable water pipe within five 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 conform to Table P3002.2.

2. The required separation distance shall not apply where the bottom of the potable water service pipe within five feet (1524 mm) of the nonpotable water pipe is a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm) above the top of the highest point of the nonpotable water pipe and the pipe materials comply with the requirements of Table P2906.5.

3. Nonpotable water pipe is permitted to be located in the same trench with building sewer piping, provided that such sewer piping is constructed of materials that comply with 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 five feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the sewer pipe centerline on both sides of such crossing with pipe materials that comply with Table P3002.1(2).

5. The required separation distance shall not apply where a potable water service pipe crosses a nonpotable water pipe provided that the potable water service pipe is sleeved for a distance of at least five 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).

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.

P2910.13 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 30.

P2910.13.1 Labeling and marking. Identification of nonpotable drainage and vent piping shall not be required.

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.

103. Add Sections P2910.15 through P2910.18, including subsections, to read:

P2910.15 Water-pressure reducing valve or regulator. Where the water pressure supplied by the pumping system exceeds 80 psi (552 kPa) static, a pressure-reducing valve shall be installed to reduce the pressure in the nonpotable water distribution system piping to 80 psi (552 kPa) static or less. Pressure-reducing valves shall be specified and installed in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section P2903.3.1.

P2910.16 Distribution pipe. Distribution piping utilized in nonpotable water systems shall comply with Sections P2910.16.1 through P2910.16.4.

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.

P2910.16.2 Design. Distribution piping shall be designed and sized in accordance with the applicable provisions of Chapter 29.

P2910.16.3 Labeling and marking. Distribution piping labeling and marking shall comply with Section P2901.2.

P2910.16.4 Backflow prevention. Backflow preventers shall be installed in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section P2902.

P2910.17 Tests and inspections. Tests and inspections shall be performed in accordance with Sections P2910.17.1 through P2910.17.5.

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 Section P2503.

P2910.17.2 Storage tank test. Storage tanks shall be tested in accordance with the Section P2910.10.11.

P2910.17.3 Water supply system test. Nonpotable distribution piping shall be tested in accordance with Section P2503.7.

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.

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 P2910.10.8.

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 accessible location.

104. Change the title of Section P2911 to "Gray Water Nonpotable Water Systems."

105. Change Sections P2911.1 through P2911.6, including subsections, to read:

P2911.1 Gray water nonpotable water systems. This code is applicable to the plumbing fixtures, piping or piping systems, storage tanks, drains, appurtenances, and appliances that are part of the distribution system for gray water within buildings and to storage tanks and associated piping that are part of the distribution system for gray water outside of 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 the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.

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.

P2911.2 Water quality. Each application of gray water reuse shall meet the minimum water quality requirements set forth in Sections P2911.2.1 through P2911.2.4 unless otherwise superseded by other state agencies.

P2911.2.1 Disinfection. Where the intended use or reuse application for nonpotable water requires disinfection, other treatment, or both, it shall be disinfected as needed to ensure that the required water quality is delivered at the point of use or reuse.

P2911.2.2 Residual disinfectants. Where chlorine is used for disinfection, the nonpotable water shall contain not more than four 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 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.

P2911.2.4 Filtration required. Gray water utilized for water closet and urinal flushing applications shall be filtered by a 100 micron or finer filter.

P2911.3 Storage tanks. Storage tanks utilized in gray water nonpotable water systems shall comply with Section P2910.10.

P2911.4 Retention time limits. Untreated gray water shall be retained in storage tanks for a maximum of 24 hours.

P2911.5 Tank location. Storage tanks shall be located with a minimum horizontal distance between various elements as indicated in Table P2911.5.1.

P2911.6 Valves. Valves shall be supplied on gray water nonpotable water drainage systems in accordance with Sections P2911.6.1 and P2911.6.2.

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 shall be provided with access for operation and maintenance. Two shutoff valves shall not be installed to serve as a bypass valve.

P2911.6.2 Backwater valve. Backwater valves shall be installed on each overflow and tank drain pipe to prevent unwanted water from draining back into the storage tank. If the overflow and drain 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.

106. Delete Sections P2911.7 through P2911.13, including subsections.

107. Change the title of Section P2912 to "Rainwater Nonpotable Water Systems."

108. Change Sections P2912.1 through P2912.10, including subsections, to read:

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 rainwater for nonpotable applications. The provisions of CSA B805/ICC 805 shall be permitted as an alternative to the provisions contained in this section for the design, construction, installation, alteration, and repair of rainwater nonpotable water systems for the collection, storage, treatment, and distribution of rainwater for nonpotable applications. Roof runoff or stormwater runoff collection surfaces shall be limited to roofing materials, public pedestrian accessible roofs, and subsurface collection identified in CSA B805/ICC 805 Table 7.1. Stormwater runoff shall not be collected from any other surfaces.

P2912.2 Water quality. Each application of rainwater reuse shall meet the minimum water quality requirements set forth in Sections P2912.2.1 through P2912.2.4 unless otherwise superseded by other state agencies.

P2912.2.1 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.

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.

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 shall be included to allow for isolation during maintenance.

P2912.2.4 Filtration required. Rainwater utilized for water closet and urinal flushing applications shall be filtered by a 100 micron or finer filter.

P2912.3 Collection surface. Rainwater shall be collected only from aboveground impervious roofing surfaces constructed from approved materials. Overflow or discharge piping from appliances, equipment, or both, including evaporative coolers, water heaters, and solar water heaters shall not discharge onto rainwater collection surfaces.

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 1,000 square feet (92.9 m²) shall be diverted from the storage tank by automatic means and not require the operation of manually operated valves or devices. Diverted water shall not drain onto other collection surfaces that are discharging to the rainwater system or to the sanitary sewer. Such water shall be diverted from the storage tank and discharged in an approved location.

P2912.5 Pre-tank filtration. Downspouts, conductors, and leaders shall be connected to a pre-tank filtration device. The filtration device shall not permit materials larger than 0.015 inches (0.4 mm).

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.

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 one unit in 96 units along their entire length and shall not permit the collection or pooling of water at any point.

P2912.6.2 Size. Gutters and downspouts shall be installed and sized in accordance with local rainfall rates.

P2912.6.3 Cleanouts. Cleanouts or other approved openings shall be provided to permit access to all filters, flushes, pipes, and downspouts.

P2912.7 Storage tanks. Storage tanks utilized in rainwater nonpotable water systems shall comply with Section P2910.10.

P2912.8 Location. Storage tanks shall be located with a minimum horizontal distance between various elements as indicated in Table P2912.8.1.

P2912.9 Valves. Valves shall be installed in collection and conveyance drainage piping of rainwater nonpotable water systems in accordance with Sections P2912.9.1 and P2912.9.2.

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.

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.

P2912.10 Tests and inspections. Tests and inspections shall be performed in accordance with Sections P2912.10.1 and P2912.10.2.

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 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.

P2912.10.2 Collection surface diversion test. A collection surface diversion test shall be performed by introducing water into the gutters or onto the collection surface area. Diversion of the first quantity of water in accordance with the requirements of Section P2912.4 shall be verified.

109. Delete Sections P2912.11 through P2912.16, including subsections.

110. Delete Section P2913 in its entirety.

111. Add Section P3002.2.2 to read:

P3002.2.2 Tracer wire. Nonmetallic sanitary sewer piping that discharges to public systems shall be locatable. An insulated 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 cleanout or at the building wall.

112. 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. Delete the exception for Section P3003.9.2.

114. Add Section E3601.9 to read:

E3601.9 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 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 installed 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. Temporary electrical service equipment shall be suitable for wet locations unless the interior is dry and protected from the weather.

115. Change Section E3802.4 to read:

E3802.4 In unfinished basements. Where Type SE or Type NM cable is run at angles with joists in unfinished basements, cable assemblies containing two or more conductors of sizes six AWG and larger and assemblies containing three or more conductors of sizes eight AWG and larger shall not require additional protection where attached directly to the bottom of the joists. Smaller cables shall be run either through bored holes in joists or on running boards. Type NM or Type SE cable installed on the wall of an unfinished basement shall be permitted to be installed in a listed conduit or tubing or shall be protected in accordance with Table E3802.1. Conduit or tubing shall be provided with a suitable insulating bushing or adapter at the point where cable enters the raceway. The sheath of the Type NM or Type 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.

116. Delete Section E3902.17.

117. Add Exception 2 to Section E3902.20 to read:

2. AFCI protection is not required where GFCI protection is required in accordance with E3902 and NEC 210.8(A)

118. Add the following standards to the list of referenced standards in Chapter 44:

119. Delete the following standards from the list of referenced standards in Chapter 44:

S. Add "Marinas" to the list of occupancies in Section 312.1 of the IBC.

T. Add Section 313 State regulated care facilities (SRCF) to the IBC to read:

313.1 General. Notwithstanding any other requirements of this code, this section applies to the use and occupancy classification of state regulated care facilities addressed in this section.

313.2 Assisted living facilities. Assisted living facilities licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services shall be classified as one of the occupancies specified in Sections 313.2.1 through 313.2.6.

313.2.1 Group I-1 Condition 1. Facilities with more than 16 persons receiving care, in which all persons receiving care, without any assistance, are capable of responding to an emergency situation to complete building evacuation, shall be classified as Group I-1 Condition 1. Not more than five of the persons may require physical assistance from staff to respond to an emergency, provided all persons requiring assistance reside on a level of exit discharge and the path of egress to the exit does not include steps.

313.2.2 Group I-1 Condition 2. Facilities with more than 16 persons receiving care, in which there are persons who require assistance by not more than one staff member while responding to an emergency situation to complete building evacuation, shall be classified as Group I-1 Condition 2. Not more than five of the persons may require physical assistance from more than one staff member to respond to an emergency situation.

313.2.3 Group I-2 Condition 1. Facilities with more than five persons receiving care who require assistance by more than one staff member when responding to an emergency situation to complete building evacuation, shall be classified as Group I-2 Condition 1.

313.2.4 Group R-4 Condition 1. Facilities with nine to 16 persons receiving care, where all persons receiving care, without any assistance, are capable of responding to an emergency situation to complete building evacuation shall be classified as R-4 Condition 1. Not more than five of the persons may require physical assistance from staff to respond to an emergency, provided all persons requiring assistance reside on a level of exit discharge and the path of egress to the exit does not include steps.

313.2.5 Group R-4 Condition 2. Buildings with nine to 16 persons receiving care, who may require assistance by not more than one staff member when responding to an emergency situation to complete building evacuation, shall be classified as Group R-4 Condition 2. Not more than five of the persons may require physical assistance from staff to respond to an emergency situation.

313.2.6 Group R-2, R-3, or R-5. Facilities with no more than eight persons receiving care, with one or more resident counselors, and all persons 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. Up to five of the persons may require physical assistance from staff to respond to an emergency situation when in compliance with the following:

1. All residents that require physical assistance from staff reside on a level of exit discharge and the path of egress to the exit does not include steps.

2. The building is protected by an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 or Section P2904 of the IRC.

313.3 Family day homes. Family day homes registered or licensed by the Virginia Department of Education shall be classified as Group R-2, R-3, or R-5.

313.4 Group homes. Group Homes licensed by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services shall be classified as one of the occupancies specified in Sections 313.4.1 through 313.4.3.

313.4.1 Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 Condition 1 or 2, or R-5. Facilities with no more than eight persons receiving care, with one or more resident counselors, shall be classified as Group R-2, R-3, R-4 (Condition 1 or 2), or R-5. Not more than five of the persons may require physical assistance from staff to respond to an emergency situation.

313.4.2 Group R-4 Condition 1. Facilities with eight to 16 persons receiving care, where all persons, without any assistance, are capable of responding to an emergency situation to complete building evacuation shall be classified as Group R-4 Condition 1. Not more than five of the persons may require physical assistance from staff to respond to an emergency, provided all persons requiring assistance reside on a level of exit discharge and the path of egress to the exit does not include steps.

313.4.3 Group R-4 Condition 2. Facilities with eight to 16 persons receiving care or facilities with more than five persons requiring physical assistance from staff to respond to an emergency situation shall be classified as Group R-4 Condition 2.

313.5 Hospice facilities. Hospice facilities licensed by the Virginia Department of Health shall be classified as one of the occupancies specified in Sections 313.5.1 through 313.5.3.

313.5.1 Group I-2. Facilities with 16 or more persons receiving care shall be classified as Group I-2.

313.5.2 Group R-4 Condition 1. Facilities with less than 16 persons receiving care shall be classified as Group R-4 Condition 1.

313.5.3 Group R-5. Facilities with five or fewer persons receiving care are permitted to be classified as Group R-5.