July 19, 2005

 

 

On July 18, 2005, the Board of Directors adopted two revisions to the 2003 edition of theInternational Residential Code© with an effective date of July 19, 2005. Copies of the newordinances will be posted on the District.s web page, www.mehlvillefire.com. Revised handoutmaterials based on the new code will also be available in approximately two weeks.The first revision involves section R310.1 by adding two exceptions. Exception #1 exemptsexisting buildings undergoing a renovation to create habitable space in a basement from therequirement for installation of an emergency escape and rescue opening, provided that all roomsin the basement are provided with AC powered interconnected smoke detectors with battery backuppower. Exception #2 exempts basements used only to house mechanical equipment and notexceeding total floor area of 200 square feet.The second revision adds a new section R310.1.5 that clarifies that bathrooms or bathroom roughinsshall not be permitted within unfinished basements on new construction unless an emergencyescape and rescue opening is provided to allow for future conversion to habitable space.If you have any questions, please feel free to contact my office at 314.894.0420 ext. 1703.Sincerely,Edwin M. Berkel, CFIFire Marshaleberkel@mehlvillefire.gen.mo.us