Interpretation #7480

Original Request

Code Version: 2010
Code: RESIDENT
Code Description: Residential
Chapter: 1
Section: R101-2
Topic: Scope of Residential Code

Question

Is it the intent of this section that a New Single Family Residence 3 stories over parking NOT come under the Residential Code? If it does not can a Residential Builder, construct this SFR? Must this SFR be sprinkled?

Answer Published 04/14/2015 at 8:46 AM

For the number of stories for licensing application, the
area beneath is not considered a story. However, for the
purposes of applying the code and sprinkler requirements,
it is considered a story. This would be classified a four
story building for the application of sprinklers. Yes, fire
sprinkler protection would be required per 903.2.8 and
903.2.11.3. It would be considered 4-story, outside of the
scope of the FRC based on the definition of "grade plane",
and need to be constructed in accordance with the FBC. All
group R constructed under the FBC require fire sprinkler
protection.

Commentary

While we cannot speak for or on behalf of the Construction Industry Licensing Board, here are the definitions from Part I of FS 489 regarding contracting. These rules were developed and have been in place since the 1970s. The rules for the Residential Code and Florida Residential contractor licensing may not match exactly and that is OK. (a) “General contractor” means a contractor whose services are unlimited as to the type of work which he or she may do, who may contract for any activity requiring licensure under this part, and who may perform any work requiring licensure under this part, except as otherwise expressly provided in s. 489.113. (b) “Building contractor” means a contractor whose services are limited to construction of commercial buildings and single-dwelling or multiple-dwelling residential buildings, which do not exceed three stories in height, and accessory use structures in connection therewith or a contractor whose services are limited to remodeling, repair, or improvement of any size building if the services do not affect the structural members of the building. (c) “Residential contractor” means a contractor whose services are limited to construction, remodeling, repair, or improvement of one-family, two-family, or three-family residences not exceeding two habitable stories above no more than one uninhabitable story and accessory use structures in connection therewith.