Interpretation #7111
Published November 28, 2012
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2010
- Code
- RESIDENT
- Code Description
- Residential
- Chapter
- 4
- Section
- R403.1.4 Minimum depth
- Topic
- Backfilling
Question
Is it the intent of this section of the code to not allow dirt to be backfilled to the exterior of the footing, where the bottom of the footing is at least 12" below grade?
Answer Published 11/28/2012 at 9:33 PM
No. The term "undisturbed fill" relates
to the soil supporting the footing. From
the description provided, the requirement
for the footing to be supported on
undisturbed natural soils or engineered
fill at Section R403.1 has been fulfilled.
The proper slope for drainage complying
with Section R401.3 or alternate drainage
of water away from the foundation is
required.
to the soil supporting the footing. From
the description provided, the requirement
for the footing to be supported on
undisturbed natural soils or engineered
fill at Section R403.1 has been fulfilled.
The proper slope for drainage complying
with Section R401.3 or alternate drainage
of water away from the foundation is
required.
Commentary
Backfilling is not a problem. The
intent of this section is to protect
the footing from soil movement caused
by freezing and thawing. Backfilling
will have no effect. The bottom of the
footing is still at least 12" below the
ground surface and meets the intent.