Building Officials Association of Florida
Protecting Lives and Property since 1953

Interpretation #8465

Published October 26, 2020

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Original Request

Code Version
2014
Code
BUILDING
Code Description
Chapter
15
Section
1509.6.5
Topic
Photovoltaic Array Minimum Clearance

Question

Is it the intent of Florida Building Code - Building Section 1509.6.5 to apply the minimum clearance provisions to photovoltaic array installations?

Answer Published 10/26/2020 at 8:01 AM

No. Section 1509.7 Photovoltaic Systems governs the installation of photovoltaic systems. Installation was to be in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. 1509.6.5 governs the installation of mechanical units. If applied to photovoltaic systems, such systems would have to be mounted on curbs or raised a minimum of 8 inches above the roof surface or on raised equipment supports.

Commentary

None.