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Interpretations Request Input

Original Request

  • Request ID: 8569
  • Requested By: Milan Slova
  • Requester E-Mail: milan.slovak@pedfl.com
  • Code Version: 2021
  • Code: ELECTRIC
  • Code Description:
  • Chapter:
  • Section: NFPA 70, NEC Current Code
  • Topic: NEC Code Version
  • Question: Is it acceptable to use the NEC 2020 code now in 2021, when designing electrical systems.
  • Comment: Florida is currently using the NFPA 70, 2017 code, but the NFPA 70, 2020 code is out. Can we use this now for designing?

Existing Interpretations and/or Declaratory Statements Related to this request

Input Received:

The Florida Building Code section 104.11 allows for alternative construction methods provided, "An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code..." The decision is up to the AHJ. The mechanism for a State wide decision on this issue is readily available.
Jonathan Peer on 09/20/2021 at 6:01 PM
I agree with Jonathon's answer. However, the NEC 2020 would only be enforceable on that designed product and to the extent the unadorned standard is examined as an alternate method.
Joseph Belcher on 09/21/2021 at 9:07 PM
It would depend on the issue and the specific section of concern. Agree with the use of section 104.11.
Larry Schneider on 10/03/2021 at 3:14 PM

Answer:

The 7the Ed' (2020) FBC & FFPC reference the 2017 NEC. However the Florida Building Code section 104.11 allows for alternative construction methods provided, "An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code..." The decision is up to the AHJ to ensure the requirements contained in 104.11 have been met.
On 10/01/2021 at 12:57 PM

Commentary:

Please keep in mind the NEC 2020 would only be enforceable on that designed product and to the extent the unadorned standard is examined as an alternate method.

Comments on Draft:

Looks good to me.
Jonathan Peer on 10/01/2021 at 2:22 PM
The 7the Ed' (2020) FBC & FFPC reference the 2017 NEC. However the Florida Building Code section 104.11 allows for alternative construction methods provided, "An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code..." The decision is up to the AHJ to ensure the requirements contained in 104.11 have been met.

Comment:
You should check with the AHJ for Building and Fire Prevention to see if they will entertain this alternative prior to design. Please keep in mind the NEC 2020 would only be enforceable on that designed product and to the extent the unadorned standard is examined as an alternate method.
Thomas Allen on 10/01/2021 at 2:30 PM
The 7th Ed' (2020) FBC & FFPC reference the 2017 NEC. However the Florida Building Code section 104.11 allows for alternative construction methods provided, "An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code..." The decision is up to the AHJ to ensure the requirements contained in 104.11 have been met.

Comment:
You should check with the AHJ for Building and Fire Prevention to see if they will entertain this alternative prior to design. Please keep in mind the NEC 2020 would only be enforceable on that designed product and to the extent the unadorned standard is examined as an alternate method.
Thomas Allen on 10/01/2021 at 2:31 PM
I agree
Michael Grimm on 10/01/2021 at 5:13 PM
Publish Draft Interpretation