Interpretation #7054

Published August 09, 2012

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Original Request

Code Version
2010
Code
RESIDENT
Code Description
Residential
Chapter
3
Section
302
Topic
fire rated soffit

Question

Is it the intent of R302.1 Exterior walls & table R302.1 to require a fire rated assembly to extend out into the soffit for either two single family residences with zero lot lines sharing a common wall or a two family dwelling building?

Answer Published 08/09/2012 at 10:34 AM

due to the lot line, the units should be seperated by a one
hour fire rated assembly on each side of the lot line. This
is two buildings with zero fire seperation distance and
they should be totaly protected from each other.
If a common wall it should be 2-hour as in a townhouse
R302.2.

Commentary

In the case of an additional roofed screen porch on the rear of one of the units, the common wall must also be fire rated.