Interpretation #7479
Published April 14, 2015
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2010
- Code
- RESIDENT
- Code Description
- Residential
- Chapter
- 4
- Section
- R403
- Topic
- Cover of footings
Question
The building volume requires a 12" min. embedment of the footing, but does not state when that must be provided. wouldn't this be required only prior to the walls being constructed ?
Answer Published 04/14/2015 at 8:45 AM
The Code is very specific:
"All exterior footings shall be placed at least 12 inches
below the undisturbed ground surface".
We used to allow for the phrase, below proposed final
grade, but that has been deleted from the code. No credit
is given for fill dirt and sod, unless approved by the AHJ.
"All exterior footings shall be placed at least 12 inches
below the undisturbed ground surface".
We used to allow for the phrase, below proposed final
grade, but that has been deleted from the code. No credit
is given for fill dirt and sod, unless approved by the AHJ.
Commentary
The code also states, in part R403.1 ...Footings shall be
supported on undisturbed natural soils "or engineered fill."
If the plan includes engineered placement of clean fill,
including appropriate compaction and soil testing, as
referenced and sealed by the design engineer, this may be
acceptable. In the case of a flood zone where a LOMA or
LOMR is being applied for, this is a critical step.