How Kauai's residential building code is changed and what it means for you

The International Residential Code, 2018 Edition, is amended as follows:Amending Section R101.1. Title. Section R101.1 is amended to read:R101.1 Title. These provisions shall be part of the Building Code of the County of Kaua'i, and will be referred to herein as "this code."Amending Section R101.2 Scope. Section R101.2 is amended to read:R101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, removal and demolition of detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures not more than three stories above grade plane in height.Exception: The following shall be permitted to be constructed in accordance with this code where provided with a residential fire sprinkler system complying with the Uniform Plumbing Code as adopted:Live/work units located in townhouses and complying with the requirements of Section 419 of the International Building Code.Owner-occupied lodging houses with five or fewer guestrooms.A care facility with five or fewer persons receiving custodial care within a dwelling unit.A care facility with five or fewer persons receiving medical care within a dwelling unit.A care facility for five or fewer persons receiving care that are within a single-family dwelling.Adding Section R101.4 Appendices. Section R101.4 is added to read:R101.4 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted.Exceptions:Appendix U, Hawai'i Hurricane Sheltering Provisions for New Construction, shall be adopted.Appendix W, Hawai'i Wind Design Provisions for New Construction, shall be adopted.Amending Section R102.1 General. Section R102.1 is amended to read:R102.1 General. Applicability shall be in accordance with International Building Code SECTION 102 APPLICABILITY as amended by this Code.Deleting Sections R102.2 through R102.7. These Sections are deleted in their entirety.Amending SECTION R103 DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING SAFETY. Section R103 is deleted in its entirety and amended to read:SECTION R103ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENTApplicability shall be in accordance with International Building Code SECTION 103 ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENT as amended by this Code.Amending SECTION R104 DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE BUILDING OFFICIAL. Section R104 is deleted in its entirety and amended to read:SECTION R104 DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE BUILDING OFFICIALApplicability shall be in accordance with International Building Code SECTION 104 DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE BUILDING OFFICIAL as amended by this Code.Amending SECTION R105 PERMITS. Applicability shall be in accordance with International Building Code SECTION 105 PERMITS as amended by this Code.Amending SECTION R106 CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS. Applicability shall be in accordance with International Building Code SECTION 107 SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS as amended by this Code.Deleting SECTION R107 TEMPORARY STRUCTURES AND USES. Section R107 is deleted in its entirety.Amending SECTION R108 FEES. Applicability shall be in accordance with International Building Code SECTION 109 FEES as amended by this Code.Amending SECTION R109 INSPECTIONS. Applicability shall be in accordance with International Building Code SECTION 110 INSPECTIONS as amended by this Code.Amending SECTION R110 CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY. Applicability shall be in accordance with International Building Code SECTION 111 CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY as amended by this Code.Deleting SECTION R111 SERVICE UTILITIES. Section R111 is deleted in its entirety.Amending SECTION R112 BOARD OF APPEALS. Applicability shall be in accordance with International Building Code SECTION 113 BOARD OF APPEALS as amended by this Code.Amending SECTION R113 VIOLATIONS. Applicability shall be in accordance with International Building Code SECTION 114 VIOLATIONS as amended by this Code.Amending SECTION R114 STOP WORK ORDER. Applicability shall be in accordance with International Building Code SECTION 115 STOP WORK ORDER as amended by this Code.Amending SECTION R202 DEFINITIONS. Section 202 is amended to read:The definition of "ASSISTANTS" is added to read:ASSISTANTS. When the term "assistants" is used in this code, it shall be construed to mean the authorized representatives of the building official.The definition of "AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVES" is added to read:AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVES. When the term "Authorized Representatives" is used in this code, it shall be construed to mean all building plans examiners, building inspectors and their supervisors designated as subordinate officers to the building official in enforcement of this code.The definition of "BUILDING, EXISTING" is amended to read:BUILDING, EXISTING is a building for which legal building permits have been issued, or one which complied with the Building Code in effect at the time the building was erected.The definition of "BUILDING OFFICIAL" is amended to read:BUILDING OFFICIAL means the County Engineer or his authorized representative.The definition of "CARPORT" is added to read:CARPORT is a private garage, which is at least 100 percent open on one side and with 50 percent net openings on another side or which is provided with an equivalent of such openings on two or more sides. A private garage which is 100 percent on one side and 25 percent open on another side with the latter opening so located to provide adequate cross ventilation may be considered a carport when approved by the building official.The definition of "FAMILY" is added to read:FAMILY. Family shall be defined in the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance of the County except than an adult residential care home, a special treatment facility, or other similar facility shall be limited to five persons in order to be considered under this code.The definition of "HISTORIC BUILDING" is amended to read:HISTORIC BUILDING. A building or structure officially listed on the State of Hawai'i or National Register of Historical Places.The definition of "IBC" is added to read:IBC means the International Building Code, 2018 edition as published by the International Code Council and adopted by the County of Kaua'i.The definition of "ICC" is added to read:ICC means the International Code Council.The definition of "IEBC" is added to read:IEBC means the International Existing Building Code, 2018 edition as published by the International Code Council and adopted by the County of Kaua'i.The definition of "IECC" is added to read:IECC means the International Energy Conservation Code, 2018 edition as published by the International Code Council and adopted by the County of Kaua'i.The definition of "IRC" is added to read:IRC means the International Residential Code, 2018 edition as published by the International Code Council and adopted by the County of Kaua'i.The definition of "KITCHEN" is amended to read:KITCHEN shall be as defined in the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.The definition of "PERSON" is amended to read:PERSON. Any individual, firm, partnership, association, corporation or utility company; shall include each and every owner of any whole or fractional interest in the property concerned, whether in fee, any lesser freehold or tenancy at will.The definition of "WINDBORNE DEBRIS REGION" is amended to read:WINDBORNE DEBRIS REGION. Areas in Hawai'i where the basic design wind speed is 130 mph (63 m/s) or greater. For Risk Category II buildings and structures, the windborne debris region shall be based on Figure 26.5-2B of ASCE 7. For Risk Category III buildings and structures, the windborne debris region shall be based on Figure 26.5-2C of ASCE 7. For Risk Category IV buildings, the windborne debris region shall be based on Figure 26.5-2D of ASCE 7.Amending Section R301.1.1 Alternative Provisions. Section R301.1.1 is amended to read:R301.1.1 Alternative Provisions. As an alternative to the requirements in Section R301.1 the following standards are permitted subject to the limitations of this code and the limitations therein. Where engineered design is used in lieu of or in conjunction with these standards, the design shall comply with the International Building Code as adopted.AWC Wood Frame Construction Manual (WFCM) 2018.AISI Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Framing-Prescriptive Method for One- and Two-Family Dwellings (AISI S230-2015).ICC Standard for Residential Construction in High-Wind Regions (ICC 600-14).Adding SECTION R301.1.2.1 Complete load path and uplift ties. This Section is added to read:R301.1.2.1 Complete load path and uplift ties. Blocking, bridging, straps, approved framing anchors or mechanical fasteners shall be designed and installed to provide continuous ties from the roof to the foundation system. Sheet metal clamps, ties or clips, shall be formed of galvanized steel or other approved corrosion-resistant material not less than 0.040 inch (1.01 mm) nominal thickness. Uplift resistance shall be in accordance with Table R802.11.Amending Section R301.1.3 Engineered design. Section R301.1.3 is amended to read:R301.1.3 Engineered design. When a building of otherwise conventional construction contains structural elements exceeding the limits of Section R301, or otherwise not conforming to this code, these elements shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice using the Alternative Provisions listed in Section R301.1.1. The extent of such design need only demonstrate compliance of nonconventional elements with other applicable provisions and shall be compatible with the performance of the conventional framed system. Engineered design in accordance with the International Building Code as adopted is permitted for all buildings and structures, and parts thereof, included in the scope of this code. Engineered design in accordance with the International Building Code as adopted shall be required when a building exceeds three stories or 3000 square feet of gross floor area.Amending Section R301.2.1 Wind design criteria. Section R301.2.1 is amended to read:R301.2.1 Wind design criteria. Buildings and portions thereof may be constructed in accordance with the wind provisions of this code provided that the ultimate design wind speed VULT, determined from Figure R301.2(5) is less than 130 mph. The structural provisions of this code for wind loads are not permitted where wind design is required, when VULT, determined from Figures R301.2(5) is equal to or greater than 130 mph. Where different construction methods and structural materials are used for various portions of a building, the applicable requirements of this section for each portion shall apply. Where not otherwise specified, the wind loads listed in Table R301.2(2) adjusted for height and exposure using Table R301.2(3) shall be used to determine design load performance requirements for wall coverings, curtain walls, roof coverings, exterior windows, skylights, garage doors and exterior doors. Asphalt shingles shall be designed for wind speeds in accordance with Section R905.2.4. A continuous load path shall be provided to transmit the applicable uplift forces in Section R802.11.1 from the roof assembly to the foundation. The ultimate design wind speed, VULT, in the International Residential Code as adopted is equal to the basic design wind speed, V, in the International Building Code as adopted.Amending Section R301.2.1.1 Wind limitations and wind design required. Section R301.2.1.1 is amended to read:R301.2.1.1 Wind limitations and wind design required. The wind provisions of this code shall not apply to the design of buildings where wind design is required in accordance with Section R301.2.1.Exceptions:1.For concrete construction, the wind provisions of this code shall apply in accordance with the limitations of Sections R404 and R608.2.For structural insulated panels, the wind provisions of this code shall apply in accordance with the limitations of Section R610.3.For cold-formed steel light-frame construction, the wind provisions of this code shall apply in accordance with the limitations of Sections R505, R603 and R804.In regions where wind design is required in accordance with Section R301.2.1, the design of buildings for wind loads shall be in accordance with one or more of the following methods:1.AWC Wood Frame Construction Manual (WFCM).2.ICC Standard for Residential Construction in High-Wind Regions (ICC 600).3.AISI Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Framing-Prescriptive Method for One- and Two-Family Dwellings (AISI S230).4.International Building Code as adopted.The elements of design not addressed by the methods in Items 1 through 4 shall be in accordance with the provisions of this code.Where wind design is required and design is in accordance with the methods in Items 1 through 3 and where VULT is greater than or equal to 130 mph, the building must be provided with opening protection for windborne debris. Options for opening protection or alternative to opening protection shall be in accordance with the International Building Code as adopted.Amending Figure R301.2(5) Ultimate Wind Speed Maps. Figure R301.2.(5) is amended as follows:Figures R301.2(5)(A) ULTIMATE DESIGN WIND SPEEDS and R301.2(5)(B) REGIONS WHERE WIND DESIGN IS REQUIRED are deleted in their entirety and replaced with Figure R301.2(5) as follows:Figure R301.2(5) County of Kaua'i Ultimate Wind Speed, VULT, for Components and Cladding for Risk Category II Buildings less than 100 feet tallAmending Section R301.2.1.4 Exposure category. Section R301.2.1.4 is amended to read:R301.2.1.4 Exposure category. The exposure category shall be determined from Figure R301.2.1.4 (a) or using the provisions of ASCE 7-10.Figure R301.2.1.4(a) Exposure Category Zones for Kaua'i CountyAmending Section R301.2.1.5 Topographic wind effects. Section R301.2.1.5 is amended to read:R301.2.1.5 Topographic wind effects. Topographic wind speed effects shall be considered in the design of the building. Buildings designed using the ultimate wind speed as determined from Figure R301.2(5) and wind exposure categories determined in accordance with Section R301.2.1.4 shall be deemed to comply with this section.Deleting Section R301.2.1.5.1 Simplified topographic wind speed-up method. Section R301.2.1.5.1 is deleted in its entirety.Amending Section R301.2.2.1 Determination of seismic design category. Section R301.2.2.1 is amended to read:R301.2.2.1 Determination of seismic design category. Buildings shall be assigned a seismic design category in accordance with Table R301.2 (4) or Figure R301.2(3).Table R301.2(4) Seismic Design Category by Location-Site Class DLocationSeismic Design CategoryKaua'iBO'ahu, Moloka'i, and Lāana'iD0MauiD1Hawai'i: North and South Kohala, Hamakua, & North Hilo DistrictsD2All other Hawai'i County DistrictsEDeleting Section R301.2.2.1.1 Alternate determination of seismic design category. Section R301.2.2.1.1 is deleted in its entirety.Amending Section R301.2.2.6 Irregular buildings. Section R301.2.2.6 is amended to read:R301.2.2.6 Irregular buildings. The seismic provisions of this code shall not be used for structures, or portions thereof, located in Seismic Design Categories C, D0 D1 and D2 and considered to be irregular in accordance with this section. A building or portion of a building shall be considered to be irregular where one or more of the conditions defined in Items 1 through 7 occur. Irregular structures, or irregular portions of structures, shall be designed in accordance with the International Building Code as adopted to the extent the irregular features affect the performance of the remaining structural system. Where the forces associated with the irregularity are resisted by a structural system designed in accordance with the International Building Code as adopted, the remainder of the building shall be permitted to be designed using the provisions of this code.Shear wall or braced wall offsets out of plane. Conditions where exterior shear wall lines or braced wall panels are not in one plane vertically from the foundation to the uppermost story in which they are required.Exception: For wood light-frame construction, floors with cantilevers or setbacks not exceeding four times the nominal dept of the wood floor joists are permitted to support braced wall panels that are out of plane with braced wall panels below provided that all of the following are satisfied:Floor joists are nominal 2 inches by 10 inches (51 mm by 254 mm) or larger and spaced not more than 16 inches (406 mm) on center.The ratio of the back span to the cantilever is not less than 2 to 1.Floor joists at ends of braced wall panels are doubled.For wood-framed construction, a continuous rim joist is connected to ends of cantilever joists. Where spliced, the rim joists shall be spliced using a galvanized metal tie not less than 0.058 inch (1.5 mm) (16 gage) and 1-1/2 inches (38 mm) wide fastened with six 16d nails on each side of the splice; or a block of the same size as the rim joist and of sufficient length to fit securely between the joist space at which the splice occurs, fastened with eight 16d nails on each side of the splice.Gravity loads carried at the end of cantilevered joists are limited to uniform wall and roof loads and the reactions from headers having a span of 8 feet (2438 mm) or less.Lateral support of roofs and floors. Conditions where a section of floor or roof is not laterally supported by shear walls or braced wall lines on all edges.Exception: Portions of floors that do not support shear walls, braced wall panels above, or roofs shall be permitted to extend not more than 6 feet (1829 mm) beyond a shear wall or braced wall line.Shear wall or braced wall offsets in plane. Conditions where the end of a braced wall panel occurs over an opening in the wall below and extends more than 1 foot (305 mm) horizontally past the edge of the opening. This provision is applicable to shear walls and braced wall panels offset in plane and to braced wall panels offset out of plane in accordance with the exception to Item 1.Exception: For wood light-frame wall construction, one end of a braced wall panel shall be permitted to extend more than 1 foot (305 mm) over an opening not more than 8 feet (2438 mm) in width in the wall below provided that the opening includes a header in accordance with all of the following:The building width, loading condition and framing member species limitations of Table R602.7(1) shall apply.The header is composed of:2.1.Not less than one 2 x 12 or two 2 x 10 for an opening not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) wide.2.2.Not less than two 2 x 12 or three 2 x 10 for an opening not more than 6 feet (1829 mm) in width.2.3.Not less than three 2 x 12 or four 2 x 10 for an opening not more than 8 feet (2438) in width.The entire length of the braced wall panel does not occur over an opening in the wall below.Floor and roof opening. Conditions where an opening in a floor or roof exceeds the lesser of 12 feet (3658 mm) or 50 percent of the least floor or roof dimension.Floor level offset. Conditions where portions of a floor level are vertically offset.Exceptions:Framing supported directly by continuous foundations at the perimeter of the building.For wood light-frame construction, floors shall be permitted to be vertically offset where the floor framing is lapped or tied together as required by Section R502.6.1.Perpendicular shear wall and wall bracing. Conditions where shear walls and braced wall lines do not occur in two perpendicular directions.Wall bracing in stories containing masonry or concrete construction. Conditions where stories above grade plane are partially or completely braced by wood wall framing in accordance with Section R602 or cold-formed steel wall framing in accordance with Section R603 include masonry or concrete construction.Where this irregularity applies, the entire story shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice.Exceptions: Fireplaces, chimneys and masonry veneer in accordance with this code.Amending Section R301.2.4 Floodplain construction. Section R301.2.4 is amended to read:R301.2.4 Floodplain construction. Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in flood hazard areas (including A or V Zones) as established in accordance with Chapter 15, Article 1, Floodplain Management, Kaua'i County Code 1987, as amended, shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Section R322. Buildings and structures located in whole or in part in identified floodways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with ASCE 24.Amending Section R309.3 Flood hazard areas. Section R309.3 is amended to read:R309.3 Flood hazard areas. The building official shall not grant modifications toany provision required in flood hazard areas as established by Section 1612.3 of the International Building Code as amended by this Code unless a variance is issued in accordance with Chapter 15, Article 1, Floodplain Management, Kaua'i County Code 1987, as amended.Amending Section R310.2.1 Minimum opening area. Section R310.2.1 is amended to read:R310.2.1 Minimum opening area. Emergency and escape rescue openings shall have a net clear opening of not less than 5.7 square feet (0.530 m2). The net clear opening dimensions required by this section shall be obtained by the normal operation of the emergency escape and rescue openings from the inside. The net clear height of the opening shall be not less than 24 inches (610 mm) and the net clear width shall be not less than 20 inches (508 mm).Exceptions:Grade floor openings or below-grade openings shall have a net clear opening area of not less than 5 square feet (0.465 m2).Glass jalousie bladed windows may be used for emergency escape or rescue.Amending Section R313.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems. Section R313.2 is amended to read:R313.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed in one- and two-family dwellings.Exceptions:An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required for additions or alterations to existing buildings that are not already provided with an automatic residential sprinkler system.In accordance with HRS 46-19.8 Fire sprinklers; residences, until June 30, 2027 no county shall require the installation or retrofitting of automatic fire sprinklers or an automatic fire sprinkler system in:Any new or existing detached one- or two-family dwelling unit in a structure used only for residential purposes; andNonresidential agricultural and aquacultural buildings and structures located outside an urban area;provided that this section shall not apply to new homes that require a variance from access road or firefighting water supply requirements.Amending Section R318.1 Subterranean termite control methods. Section R318.1 is amended to read:R318.1 Subterranean termite control methods. Methods of protection shall be one of items 1, 2 or 3 and one of items 4, 5 or 6.Chemical termiticide, as provided in Section R318.2.Termite baiting system installed and maintained according to the label.Physical barriers, as provided in Section R318.3 and used in locations as specified in Section R317.1.Pressure-preservative-treated structural wood in accordance with Section R317.1.Cold-formed steel framing in accordance with Sections R505.2.1 and R603.2.1.Naturally durable termite-resistant wood as approved by the building official.Amending Section R318.4 Foam plastic protection. Section R318.4 is amended to read:R318.4 Foam plastic protection. Extruded and expanded polystyrene, polyisocyanurate and other foam plastics shall not be installed on the exterior face or under interior or exterior foundation walls or slab foundations located below grade. The clearance between foam plastics installed above grade and exposed earth shall not be less than 6 inches (152 mm).Exception: On the interior side of basement walls.Adding Section R318.5 Water splash. Section R318.5 is added to read:R318.5 Water splash. Where wood-frame walls and partitions are covered on the interior with plaster, tile or similar materials and are subject to water splash, the framing shall be protected with approved waterproof paper.Adding Section R318.6 Pipe and other penetrations. Section R318.6 is added to read:R318.6 Pipe and other penetrations. Insulations around plumbing pipes shall not pass through ground floor slabs. Openings around pipes or similar penetrations in a concrete or masonry slab, which is in direct contact with earth, shall be filled with non-shrink grout, or other approved physical barrier.Amending Section R319.1 Address identification. Section R319.1 is amended to read:R319.1 Address identification. Numbers shall be provided for all new buildings as specified in Chapter 15, Article 3, Kaua'i County Code 1987, Numbering of Houses in portions of the County of Kaua'i.Amending Section R322.1 General. Section R322.1 is amended to read:R322.1 General. Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in flood hazard areas (including A or V Zones) as established in accordance with Chapter 15, Article 1 Floodplain Management, Kaua'i County Code, 1987, as amended, shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Section R322. Buildings and structures located in whole or in part in identified floodways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with ASCE 24.Amending Section R322.1.4 Establishing the design flood elevation. Section R322.1.4 is amended to read:R322.1.4 Establishing the flood hazard areas and flood hazard data. Flood hazard areas and flood hazard data shall be established in accordance with Chapter 15, Article 1 Floodplain Management and Chapter 16, Traffic Code, Kaua'i County Code 1987, as amended. Floodways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with ASCE 24.Amending SECTION R323 STORM SHELTERS. R323.1 General. This Section is amended to read:SECTION R323 STORM SHELTERSR323.1 General. Storm shelters shall be per the International Building Code as adopted by this Code.Adding SECTION R328 COMPLETE LOAD AND UPLIFT TIES. This Section is added to read:SECTION R328COMPLETE LOAD AND UPLIFT TIESR328.1 Purpose. The purpose of this Section is intended to promote public safety and welfare by reducing the risk of wind-induced damages to conventional light-frame construction.R328.2 Scope. This section applies to regular shape buildings, which have a roof structural member spanning 32 feet (9.75 m) or less, are not more than three stories in height and are of conventional light-frame construction.Exception: Detached carports, garages, workshops, storages and similar accessory buildings to Group R, Division 3 Occupancies not exceeding 600 square feet (55.7 m2) need only comply with the roof-member-to-wall-tie requirements of this Section.R328.3 Definitions. For the purposes of this Section, certain terms are defined as follows:CORROSION RESISTANT or NONCORROSIVE is material having a corrosion resistance equal to or greater than a hot-dipped galvanized coating of 1.5 ounces of zinc per square foot (4g/m2) of surface area.R328.4 General. Other methods may be used, provided a satisfactory design is submitted showing compliance with the provisions of this Section and other applicable portions of this Code.In addition to the other provisions of this Section, foundations for buildings in areas subject to wave action or tidal surge shall be designed in accordance with approved national standards.When an element is required to be corrosion resistant or non-corrosive, all of its parts, such as screws, nails, wire, dowels, bolts, nuts, washers, shims, anchors, ties, and attachments, shall also be corrosion resistant or non-corrosive.Blocking, bridging, straps, approved framing anchors or mechanical fasteners shall be designed and installed to provide continuous ties from the roof to the foundation system. Sheet metal clamps, ties or clips shall be formed of galvanized steel and other approved corrosion resistant or non-corrosive material installed accordingly to manufacturer's specifications.Uplift ties straps shall be spaced not more than 48 inches (1219 mm) on center to create the complete load path. Uplift tie straps shall meet the requirements of Table R802.11.R328.5 Walls to foundation tie. Exterior walls shall be tied to a continuous foundation or an elevated foundation system as described in Section R328.6.R328.5.1 Sill and foundation tie. Foundation plates resting on concrete or masonry foundations shall be bolted to the foundation with not less than 1/2-inch diameter (13 mm) anchor bolts with 7-inch minimum (178 mm) embedment into the foundation. The maximum spacing of anchor bolts shall be 4 feet (1219 mm) on center.R328.5.2 Floor-to-foundation tie. The lowest level exterior wall studs shall be connected to the foundation sill plate or an approved elevated foundation system with bent tie straps spaced not more than 48 inches (1219 mm) on center.R328.5.3 Wall framing detail. The spacing of 2-inch by 4-inch studs (51 mm x 102 mm) in exterior walls shall not exceed 16 inches (406 mm) on center. Mechanical fasteners complying with this Section shall be installed as required to connect studs to the sole plates, foundation sill plate and top plate of the wall.Interior braced wall lines shall be installed approximately perpendicular to the exterior wall when the length of the structure exceeds the width. The maximum distance between these partitions shall not exceed the width of the structure. Interior braced wall lines shall be securely fastened to the exterior wall at the point of intersection with fasteners. The interior braced wall lines shall be covered on both sides by materials as described in Section R602.R328.5.4 Wall sheathing. All exterior walls and required interior braced wall lines shall be sheathed at each face. The total width of sheathed wall elements shall not be less than 50 percent of the exterior wall length or 60 percent of the width of the building for required interior braced wall lines. The exterior wall sheathing or covering shall extend from the foundation sill plate or girder to the top plates at the roof level and shall be adequately attached thereto.A sheathing wall element not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) in width shall be installed at each corner or as near thereto as possible (not to exceed 12.5 feet). There shall not be less than one 4-foot (1219 mm) sheathed wall element for every 20 feet (6096 mm) or fraction thereof of wall length.R328.5.5 Floor-to-floor tie. Upper-level exterior wall studs shall be aligned and connected to the wall studs below and the roof ties above with a tie strap.R328.5.6 Roof-members-to-wall tie. Tie straps shall be provided from the side of the roof-framing member to the exterior studs, posts or other supporting members below the roof. The wall studs to which the roof-framing members are ties shall be aligned with the roof-framing member.All intermediate rafters shall have tie straps and tied to the exterior plate with an approved galvanized steel connector and each connector shall be installed accordingly to manufacturer's specifications.The eave overhang shall not exceed 3 feet (914 mm) unless an analysis is provided showing that the required resistance is provided to prevent uplift.Where openings exceed 6 feet (1829 mm) in width, the required tie straps shall be doubled at each edge of the opening and connected to a double full-height wall stud. When openings exceed 12 feet in width, ties designed to prevent uplift shall be provided.Exception: The opening width may be increased to 16 feet (4877 mm) for garages, carports and accessory buildings to Group R, Division 3 occupancies when constructed in accordance with the following:1.Approved column bases shall be a minimum 3/16-inch (4.8 mm) steel plate embedded not less than 8 inches (203 mm) into the concrete footing and connected to a minimum 4-inch by 4-inch (102 mm by 102 mm) wood post with two 5/8-inch-diameter (15.9 mm) through bolts.2.Beams over openings shall be connected to minimum 4-inch by 4-inch (102 mm by 102 mm) wood posts below with an approved 3/16-inch (4.8 mm) steel post cap with two 5/8-inch-diamter (15.9 mm) through bolts and to the beams.R328.5.7 Ridge ties. Opposing rafters shall be aligned at the ridge and be connected at the rafters with a tie strap.R328.5.8 Roof sheathing. Anchor ties shall be spaced to support not more than 1 5/8 square feet (860 mm2) of wall area but not more than 12 inches (305 mm) on center vertically.R328.5.9 Roof sheathing. Solid roof sheathing shall be applied and shall consist of a minimum 1-inch-thick (25 mm) nominal lumber applied diagonally or a minimum 15/32-inch-thick (11.9 mm) wood structural panel or particleboard or other approved sheathing applied with the long dimension perpendicular to supporting rafters. Sheathing shall be nailed to roof framing in an approved manner. The end joints of wood structural panels or particleboard shall be staggered and shall occur over blocking, rafters or other supports.R328.5.10 Gable-end walls. The roof overhang at gabled ends shall not exceed 2 feet (610 mm) unless an analysis is showing that the required resistant to prevent uplift is provided.Gable-end wall studs shall be continuous between points of lateral support, which are perpendicular to the plane of the wall.Gable-end wall studs shall be attached with approved mechanical fasteners at the top and bottom.R328.5.11 Roofing covering. Roof covering shall be approved and shall be installed and fastened in accordance with this code and the manufacturer's instructions. Asphalt shingles with self-seal strips shall be fastened with a minimum of six fasteners per shingle.R328.6 Elevated Foundation.R328.6.1 General. When approved, elevated foundations supporting not more than one story and meeting the provisions of this Section may be used. The Building Official may require a foundation investigation.R328.6.2 Material. All exposed wood-framing members shall be treated wood. All metal connectors and fasteners used in exposed locations shall be corrosion-resistant or noncorrosive steel.R328.6.3 Wood piles. The spacing of wood piles shall not exceed 8 feet (2438 mm) on center. Square piles shall not be less than 10 inches (254 mm) and tapered piles shall have a tip of not less than 8 inches (203 mm). Ten-inch-square (64 516 mm2) piles shall have a minimum embedment length of 10 feet (3048 mm) and shall project not more than 8 feet (2438 mm) above undisturbed ground surface. Eight-inch (203 mm) taper piles shall have a minimum embedment length of 14 feet (4267 mm) and shall project not more than 7 feet (2134 mm) above undisturbed ground surface.R328.6.4 Girders. Floor girders shall be solid sawn timber, built-up-2-inch-thick (51 mm) lumber or trusses. Splices shall occur over wood piles. The floor girders shall span in the direction parallel to the potential floodwater and wave action.R328.6.5 Connections. Wood piles may be notched to provide a shelf for supporting the floor girders. The total notching shall not exceed 50 percent of the pile cross section. Approved bolted connection with 1/4-inch (6.4 mm) corrosion-resistant or noncorrosive steel plates and 3/4-inch-diameter (19 mm) bolts shall be provided. Each end of the girder shall be connected to the piles using a minimum of two 3/4-inch-diameter (19 mm) bolts.Adding Section R401.5 Post or pier foundations. Section R401.5 is added to read:R401.5 Post or pier foundations. Raised floor systems supported by post or pier foundations shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice and the International Building Code as adopted.Amending Section R402.2.1 Materials for concrete. Section R402.2.1 is amended to read:R402.2.1 Materials for concrete. Materials for concrete shall comply with the requirements of Section 608.5.1. The maximum water to cement ratio for concrete slabs-on-grade shall be 0.50.Adding Section R403.1.6.2 Concrete strap type anchors. Section R403.1.6.2 is added to read:R403.1.6.2 Concrete strap type anchors. Concrete strap type anchors made of cold-formed steel shall not be used along the perimeter edges of a slab on grade where the steel does not have at least 1-1/2 inches side cover or other adequate protection.Adding Section R403.1.6.3 Anchor bolts at the perimeter edge of a slab-on-grade. Section R403.1.6.3 is added to read:R403.1.6.3 Anchor bolts at the perimeter edge of a slab-on-grade. Anchor bolts shall be hot dipped galvanized in accordance with ASTM F2329 and have a minimum concrete side cover of 1-1/2 inches unless provisions have been made to protect the anchor bolts from corrosion.Deleting Section R406.1 Concrete and masonry foundation dampproofing. Section R406.1 is deleted in its entirety.Amending Section R406.2 Concrete and masonry foundation waterproofing. Section R406.2 is amended to read:R406.2 Concrete and masonry foundation waterproofing. Exterior foundation walls that retain earth and enclose interior spaces and floors below grade shall be waterproofed from the higher of (a) the top of the footing or (b) 6 inches (152 mm) below the top of the basement floor, to the finished grade. Walls shall be waterproofed in accordance with one of the following:1.Two-ply hot-mopped felts.2.Fifty-five-pound (25 kg) roll roofing.3.Forty-mil (1 mm) polymer-modified asphalt.4.Sixty-mil (1.5 mm) flexible polymer cement.5.One-eighth inch (3 mm) cement-based, fiber-reinforced, waterproof coating.6.Sixty-mil (1.5 mm) solvent-free liquid-applied synthetic rubber.All joints in membrane waterproofing shall be lapped and sealed with an adhesive compatible with the membrane.Exception: Organic-solvent based products such as hydrocarbons, chlorinated hydrocarbons, ketones and esters shall not be used for ICF walls with expanded polystyrene form material. Use of plastic roofing cements, acrylic coatings, latex coatings, mortars and pargings to seal ICF walls is permitted. Cold-setting asphalt or hot asphalt shall conform to Type C of ASTM D449. Hot asphalt shall be applied at a temperature of less than 200° F (93° C).Amending Section R406.3 Dampproofing for wood foundations. Section R406.3 is amended to read:R406.3 Dampproofing for wood foundations. Wood foundations enclosing habitable or usable spaces located below grade shall be waterproofed in accordance with Section R406.2.Amending Section R406.3.2 Below-grade moisture barrier. Section R406.3.2 is amended to read:R406.3.2 Below-grade waterproofing. One of the waterproofing systems listed in Section R406.2 shall be applied over the below-grade portion of the exterior foundation walls prior to backfilling. The top edge of the waterproofing shall be bonded to the sheathing to form a seal. Film areas at grade level shall be protected from mechanical damage and exposure by a pressure preservative treated lumber or plywood strip attached to the wall several inches above finish grade level and extending approximately 9 inches (229 mm) below grade. The joint between the strip and the wall shall be caulked full length prior to fastening the strip to the wall. Other coverings appropriate to the architectural treatment may also be used. The waterproofing shall extend down to the bottom of the wood footing plate but shall not overlap or extend into the gravel or crushed stone footing.Deleting Section R406.4 Precast concrete foundation system dampproofing. Section R406.4 is deleted in its entirety.Adding Section R406.5 Cold formed steel protection of sill track. Section R406.5 is added to read:R406.5 Cold formed steel protection of sill track. Cold formed steel framing sills that directly bear on concrete or masonry that is in direct contact with earth shall be shielded along the exterior flange and bottom of the sill track with a self-adhered rubberized asphalt flashing material with a minimum thickness of 25 mil (0.64 mm) or other moisture barrier conforming to ASTM D412, D570, and E96/E96M.Amending Section R602.10.9 Braced wall panel support. Section R602.10.9 is amended to read:R602.10.9 Braced wall panel support. Braced wall panel support shall be provided as follows:Cantilevered floor joists complying with Section R502.3.3 shall be permitted to support braced wall panels.Raised floor system post or pier foundations supporting braced wall panels shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice and the International Residential Code as adopted.Masonry stem walls with a length of 48 inches (1219 mm) or less supporting braced wall panels shall be reinforced in accordance with Figure R602.10.9. Masonry stem walls with a length greater than 48 inches (1219 mm) supporting braced wall panels shall be constructed in accordance with Section R403.1. Methods ABW and PFH shall not be permitted to attach to masonry stem walls.Concrete stem walls with a length of 48 inches (1219 mm) or less, greater than 12 inches (305 mm) tall and less than 6 inches (152 mm) thick shall have reinforcement sized and located in accordance with Figure R602.10.9.Adding SECTION R611 SINGLE WALL CONSTRUCTION. SECTION R611 is added to read:SECTION R611 SINGLE WALL CONSTRUCTIONR611.1 General. This section is intended for conventional light-framed construction. Other methods may be used provided a satisfactory design is submitted showing compliance with other provisions of this code.Conventional construction may be used for repairs and addition to existing to conventionally constructed structures, provided that those repairs and additions requiring the seal of a duly licensed professional registered structural engineer or architect as required by Chapter 464 of the Hawai'i Revised Statutes as amended shall be designed to comply with other provisions of this code.R611.2 Walls without studs. For Type V-B buildings, single wall construction without studs may be used in accordance with the section for repairs or additions to existing buildings of single wall construction.One-story and the uppermost story of wood frame type V-B buildings or structures may be of single wall construction with boards of thickness specified in this section, without studs, when requirements of this section are met. Floor to ceiling height shall not exceed 8 feet.Any provisions of this code to the contrary notwithstanding, studding of not less than 2 inches by 3 inches may be used on one-story buildings of double wall construction. Studding shall not be space more than 16 inches on center.When posts support wood frame dwellings, 2-inch by 4-inch foundation bracing shall be provided.For one-story, conventional residential buildings or structures the local practice of using foundation blocks with termite shields will be acceptable in interior areas except in flood hazard districts and developments. Design shall comply with the requirements of the Floodplain Management Ordinance, County of Kaua'i.R611.3 Boards for single wall construction.R611.3.1 One and one-eighth inch boards. Single wall construction with boards of 1 1/8 inch net thickness are not required to have girts.R611.3.2 One-inch boards. Where single wall construction is with boards of 1-inch net thickness, no girt is required provided approved stiffeners for any section of such wall is spaced not more than 10 feet along the wall.R611.3.3 Three-fourths-inch boards. Single wall construction with boards of 3/4-inch thickness shall have girts and cross partitions at least every 30 feet.R611.3.4 Eleven-sixteenths-inch boards. Single wall construction with boards of 11/16-inch net thickness shall be limited to the following conditions: (A) the span between load bearing walls shall not exceed 24 feet; (B) the dead load on such walls shall not exceed 150 pounds per lineal foot; (C) girts shall be provided; (D) there shall be approved stiffeners at least every 10 feet along such wall; and (E) any openings in such walls for windows and doors shall have full-height jambs or studs where the girt is not continuous.R611.4 Approved stiffeners. Approved stiffeners shall be studs of at least 2 inches by 4 inches, full-height window or doorjambs, posts, walls or partitions at right angle to the section of wall under construction.R611.5 Girts. Girts for single wall construction shall be not less than 2-inch by 6-inch belt course or other approved strengthening about mid height between the floor and the ceiling on all exterior walls.Amending CHAPTER 11 ENERGY EFFICIENCY. CHAPTER 11 ENERGY EFFICIENCY is deleted in its entirety and amended to read:CHAPTER 11 ENERGY EFFICIENCYN1101.1 General. The energy efficiency requirements for the design and construction of buildings related by this code shall comply with CHAPTER 13 ENERGY EFFICIENCY of the International Building Code and Article 6, Chapter 12, Building Code, Kaua'i County Code 1987 as amended.Amending Section M1201.1 Scope. Section M1201.1 is amended to read:M1201.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapters 12 through 22 shall regulate the design, installation, maintenance, alteration and inspection of mechanical systems that are permanently installed and used to control environmental conditions within buildings. These chapters shall also regulate those mechanical systems, system components, equipment and appliances specifically addressed in this code. Where an application is made for construction as described in these chapters, the owner, or the licensed design professional in responsible charge acting as the owner's agent, shall employ one or more special inspectors to provide inspections during construction on the work in these chapters. These inspections are in addition to the inspections specified in Section 110 of the International Building Code as adopted.Amending Section M1301.1 Scope. Section M1301.1 is amended to read:M1301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the installation of mechanical systems not specifically covered in other chapters applicable to mechanical systems. Installations of mechanical appliances, equipment and systems not addressed by this code shall comply with the applicable provisions of nationally published mechanical codes or standards.Amending Section M1307.4.2 Mechanical ventilation. Section M1307.4.2 is amended to read:M1307.4.2 Mechanical ventilation. Indoor locations intended for hydrogen-generating or refueling operations shall be ventilated in accordance with nationally published mechanical codes or standards.Adding Sections M2301.2.1.1 to M2301.2.1.5. These Sections are added to read:M2301.2.1.1 Solar systems for one- and two-family dwellings. Access to residential systems for one- and two-family dwellings shall be provided in accordance with Sections M2301.1.2 through M2301.7.2.M2301.2.1.2 Residential buildings with hip roof layouts. Panels/modules installed on residential buildings with hip roof layouts shall be located in a manner that provides a 3-foot-wide (914 mm) clear access pathway from the eave to the ridge on each roof slope where panels/modules are located. The access pathway shall be located at a structurally strong location on the building capable of supporting the live load of fire fighters accessing the roof.Exception: On roofs with slopes of two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12) or less, a 3-foot-wide clear pathway between the panel and sides, top, or eave is required on two sides.M2301.2.1.3 Residential buildings with a single ridge. Panels/modules installed on residential buildings with hip roof layouts shall be located in a manner that provides a 3-foot-wide (914 mm) access pathways from the eave to the ridge on each roof slope Where panels/modules are located.Exception: On roofs with slopes of two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12) or less, a 3-foot-wide clear pathway between the panel and sides, top or eave is required on two sides.M2301.2.1.4 Residential buildings with roof hips and valleys. Panels/modules installed on residential buildings with roof hips and valleys shall be located no closer than 18 inches (457 mm) to a hip or a valley where panels/modules are to be placed on both sides of a hip or valley. Where panels are to be located on only one side of a hip or valley that is of equal length, the panels shall be permitted to be placed directly adjacent to the hip or valley.Exception: On roofs with slopes of two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12) or less, a 3-foot-wide clear pathway between the panel and sides, top or eave is required on two sides.M2301.2.1.5 Residential buildings smoke ventilation. Panels/modules installed on residential buildings shall be located no higher than 3 feet (914 mm) below the ridge in order to allow for fire department smoke ventilation operations.Amending Section M2301.5 Backflow protection. Section M2301.5 is amended to read:M2301.5 Backflow protection. Connections from the potable water supply to solar systems shall comply with the County of Kaua'i Plumbing Code.Deleting CHAPTER 24 FUEL GAS. Chapter 24 is deleted in its entirety. Refer to the adopted County of Kaua'i Plumbing Code.Deleting Part VII - Plumbing. Part VII, which corresponds to Chapters 25 through 33, is deleted in its entirety. Refer to the adopted County of Kaua'i Plumbing Code.Deleting Part VIII - Electrical. Part VIII, which corresponds to Chapters 35 through 43, is deleted in its entirety. Refer to the adopted County of Kaua'i Electrical Code.Adopting APPENDIX N VENTING METHODS. APPENDIX N is adopted in its entirety with amendments for use with the County of Kaua'i Plumbing Code.Amending APPENDIX N VENTING METHODS User note. User note is amended to read:User note:About this appendix: Venting for plumbing systems is often best understood using diagrams such as isometrics. Appendix N illustrates a variety of venting methods indicated in the County of Kaua'i Plumbing Code.(, October 10, 2024)