Interpretation #7087

Published October 24, 2012

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Original Request

Code Version
2004
Code
BUILDING
Code Description
Building
Chapter
4
Section
401.3
Topic
grading

Question

Is it the intent of Code 401.3 to ensure the installation of pre-sod soil grading about home exterior walls to prevent pooling of water about the home perimiter?

Answer Published 10/24/2012 at 10:21 AM

Residential Code 401.3 The code
requires 6 inches of fall within the
first 10 feet of the foundation wall.
Where lot lines, walls, slopes or other
physical barriers prohibit this
requirement, drains or swales shall be
constructed to ensure drainage away
from the structure. Impervious surfaces
require a minimum 2 percent slope
within the first 10 feet.

Commentary

The intent of the 6 inch fall within the first ten feet of the foundation is to keep site water drainage away from the structures supporting foundation.