fatboy summed it up nicely;
RB4-07/08
R105.2
Proposed Change as Submitted:
Proponent: Steve Hamblin, Clinton City, Layton City, Roy City, Ogden City, Marriott Staterville City, Morgan City,
representing Utah Chapter of ICC
Revise as follows:
R105.2 (Supp) Work exempt from permit. Permits shall not be required for the following. Exemption from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
Building:
1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 200 square feet (11.15 18.58 m2).
2. Fences not over 6 feet (1829 mm) high.
3. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.
4. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18 927 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
5. Sidewalks and driveways.
6. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
7. Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep.
8. Swings and other playground equipment.
9. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
(No change to remainder of section)
Reason: A number of shed manufacturing companies throughout the state are producing residential “storage” sheds which are 200 sq. ft. or less.
These sheds are typically built to a standard which exceeds the minimum standards required by the IRC. Zoning requirements for the majority of jurisdictions throughout the state will accommodate the location for a 200 sq. ft. shed as easily as a 120 sq. ft. Review for zoning compliance is required regardless of whether a permit is required or not. Many permits currently being issued for sheds with an area between 120 and 200 sq. ft. are being issued based on a one time inspection fee. In most cases this ends up costing the jurisdiction money for providing up to two inspections plus administrative time. The inspections do not typically produce any structural violations. The only known argument for changing the existing 200 square feet maximum area to 120 was to make it consistent with the requirement in the IBC. Sheds which are provided to support a commercial business are typically provided with electrical lighting and outlets which would require a permit regardless of area. They may also be used for the storage of flammables and hazardous materials which would not normally occur in a residential setting. This request would not affect the current IBC requirement. Any shed, regardless of size, which is provided with any electrical, mechanical or plumbing system would still require a permit and inspections despite the proposed modification to Section R105.2, item1.
Cost Impact: This code change proposal will not increase the cost of construction.
Committee Action: Approved as Submitted
Committee Reason: The committee agreed to change the size restriction from 120 square feet to 200 square feet for accessory structures used as tool or storage sheds under Section R105.2 work exempt from requiring a permit. It is important to allow people room to store their possessions. This language does not exempt the shed or storage structure from meeting the requirements of the code it simply exempts it from
the requirement for a building permit.
Assembly Action: None
