Jane
Registered User
Thank you! I will try that.
The model IRC is silent in regard to FSD for decks. Therefore interpretation is all over the place. This is a hole in the IRC that will likely be fixed over the next few cycles.
I trued that but they say they don't enforce it unless you appeal within 10 days of knowing there is a building permit. In other words - they can't be held liable for their mistakes
That makes no sense
I'm sorry Jane, I can't speak directly to your situation without more research and information about the local codes. I am a national code consultant in the decking industry, and was simply adding to the greater conversation that this subject of fire spread from decks has not been tackled at a national level. The code is silent. The Wildland Urban Interface Code does however have provision for fire spread via decks but it is in relation to a wildland fire spreading to a house, not a house to a house.Does that mean the monstrous deck next door to me is not a fire code violation? It's got multiple other violations but it looks like the city are going to get off with it which is why fire code is my last resort.
The HOA (at least two of them) just allowed their friend to build this. I am going to call the HOA's insurance and ask if a fire code violation voids the policy.
I know we have to do a reserve study every 5 years but they don't make us have a specific amount.
I'm sorry Jane, I can't speak directly to your situation without more research and information about the local codes. I am a national code consultant in the decking industry, and was simply adding to the greater conversation that this subject of fire spread from decks has not been tackled at a national level. The code is silent. The Wildland Urban Interface Code does however have provision for fire spread via decks but it is in relation to a wildland fire spreading to a house, not a house to a house.
There have been proposals in the past to address this, but they weren't well prepared and I spoke against them at the hearings. I do expect to work on this "hole" in the code for the 2024 or 2027 editions, but that doesn't help you.
Just know you are not alone or crazy in your concerns. The code development process just hasn't addressed it yet.
Do they identify nonconforming additions?
We get request for information all the time and we only give EXACTLY what is asked for so the wording you use in your request is very important. Did you specify you want all permit, zoning & inspection info?
In general building code is for how it is built, and zoning is for where it can be built. The pictures are not clear enough or enough from different angles to verify how many code violations may be present. As for zoning there are usually sideyard and rearyard setbacks as well as ratio's as to how much you can cover as has been state earlier. I would think there are violation to zoning & building codes. The zoning ordinance should be available somewhere.
Most states set what codes are used and should be found also. This info should be online in this day and age.
Would file complaints with the state agencies that over see codes and zoning in your state.
As also already stated when all else fails call the local news.
I will file another GRAMA request using that wording right now and see if something different comes back. I know that the deck (the city deemed it a "patio" as they have no language in their zoning for a deck but a patio is described as a flat structure no more than 30" high. Either way it violates lot coverage rules and a patio is not allowed to extend more that 12 feet. So it's more than 30" high and extends out approx 20 feet so there is no question that it violates at least one zoning ordinance. Do you work for a city zoning?
What is the story with the porch roof in the unit in the background? It appears to cover the entire yard all the way to the garage? I would be more worried about that.
No, a city building inspector. We deal with zoning a lot so it rubs off and we also check to make sure structures are built to the required set backs.
Someone is not going to be invited to the Christmas
Since the hose does not care,
A nice large sign with pictures in your front yard, might do good or bad!!!
No, a city building inspector. We deal with zoning a lot so it rubs off and we also check to make sure structures are built to the required set backs.