Who Determines What Code Applies

[jar546]

Read the following from the IEBC and comment on your interpretation of which code applies and who determines which code applies for one and two-family dwellings undergoing renovations.

[A] 101.2 Scope.​

The provisions of this code shall apply to the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition to and relocation of existing buildings.
Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress, and their accessory structures not more than three stories above grade plane in height, shall comply with this code or the International Residential Code.

 

[steveray]

IMO....the applicant....

 

[mtlogcabin]

undergoing renovations.

The IRC applies if the renovations follow the prescriptive requirements of the IRC.

who determines which code applies

The applicant

 

[tmurray]

If the code gives code users the option on how to comply with the code, it is up to the designer/applicant/owner on how they comply.

The building official must accept any acceptable means of satisfying the code requirements.

 

[mark handler]

​

In California,​

Section R104 Duties and Powers of the Building Official

R104.1 General​

The building official is hereby authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of this code. The building official shall have the authority to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code. Such policies and procedures shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.

 

[Sifu]

I often get an IBC regulated permit with design and reference to the IRC. Sometimes I get an IRC regulated structure designed and referenced to the IBC. RARELY do I get an existing building designed and referenced to the IEBC. The applicant may try to dictate which code, but the code dictates which code, IMHO. "The provisions of this code shall apply" appears in ch. 1 of every ICC code. Local adoptions dictate which specific code to use, but I can't recall any that define which projects to use them on.