Florida Existing
Buildings Code 

Draft

December 10, 2002 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 ADMINISTRATION	 1
Section
101 General 	 1
102 Applicability 	 1
104 Duties and Powers of Code Official 	 1
105 Permits 	 2

CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS	 5
Section
201 General 	 5
202 General Definitions 	 5

CHAPTER 3 CLASSIFICATION OF WORK 	 7
Section
301 General	 7
302 Repairs	 7
303 Alteration - Level 1	 7
304 Alteration - Level 2 	 7
305 Alteration - Level 3 	 7
306 Change of Occupancy 	 7
307 Additions 	 7
308 Historic Buildings	 8
309 Relocated Buildings 	 8

CHAPTER 4 REPAIRS	 9
Section
401 General	 9
402 Reserved 	 9
403 Building Elements and Materials	 9
404 Fire Protection	 9
405 Means of Egress	 9
406 Accessibility	 9
407 Structural	 9
408 Electrical 	 10
409 Mechanical 	 10
410 Plumbing 	 10

CHAPTER 5 ALTERATIONS - LEVEL 1 	 13
Section
501 General 	 13
502 Reserved 	 13
503 Building Elements and Materials 	 13
504 Fire Protection	 13
505 Means of Egress 	 13
506 Accessibility 	 13
507 Structural 	 13
508 Electrical 	 14
509 Mechanical 	 14
510 Plumbing	 14
511 Reroofing 	 15
512 Energy Conservation 	 15

CHAPTER 6 ALTERATIONS -
LEVEL 2 	 17
Section
601 General 	 17
602 Special Use and Occupancy 	 17
603 Building Elements and Materials 	 17
604 Fire Protection 	 18
605 Means of Egress 	 19
606 Accessibility 	 21
607 Structural 	 21
608 Electrical 	 22
609 Mechanical 	 23
610 Plumbing 	 23
611 Energy Conservation 	 23

CHAPTER 7 ALTERATIONS -
LEVEL 3 	 25
Section
701 General 	 25
702 Special Use and Occupancy 	 25
703 Building Elements and Materials 	 25
704 Fire Protection 	 26
705 Means of Egress 	 26
706 Accessibility 	 26
707 Structural 	 26
708 Energy Conservation 	 27

CHAPTER 8 CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY 	 29
Section
801 General 	 29
802 Special Use and Occupancy 	 29
803 Building Elements and Materials 	 29
804 Fire Protection 	 29
805 Egress 	 29
806 Accessibility 	 29
807 Structural 	 29
808 Electrical 	 30
809 Mechanical 	 30
810 Plumbing 	 30
811 Other Requirements 	 31
812 Change of Occupancy Classification 	 31

CHAPTER 9 ADDITIONS 	 37
Section
901 General 	 37
902 Heights and Areas 	 37
903 Structural 	 37
904 Smoke Alarms in Use Groups R-3 and R-4 	 38
905 Accessibility 	 38
906 Energy Conservation 	 38

CHAPTER 10 HISTORIC BUILDINGS 	 39
Section
1001 General 	 39
1002 Definitions 	 39
1003 Goal and Objectives 	 39
1004 Equivalency 	 40
1005 Compliance 	 40
1006 Investigation and Evaluation 	 41
1007 Historic Cuban Tile 	 41

CHAPTER 11 RELOCATED OR MOVED BUILDINGS 	 43
Section
1101 General 	 43
1102 Requirements 	 43

CHAPTER 12 COMPLIANCE ALTERNATIVES 	 45
Section
1201 General 	 45

CHAPTER 1
ADMINISTRATION

SECTION 101
GENERAL

101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Florida Existing Building Code hereinafter referred to as “this code.”

101.2 Scope. The provisions of the Florida Existing Building Code shall apply to the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition, and relocation of existing buildings. A building or portion of a building which has not been previously occupied or used for its intended purpose shall comply with the provisions of the Florida Building Code for new construction. Repairs, alterations, change of occupancy, existing buildings to which additions are made, historic buildings and relocated buildings complying with the provisions of the Florida Building Code and the Florida Fire Prevention Code as applicable shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.

Exception: For the purpose of public educational facilities and state licensed facilities, see Chapter 4, Special Occupancy, of the Florida Building Code.

101.3 Intent. The purpose of this code is to ensure public health, safety and welfare insofar as they are affected by the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition, and relocation of existing buildings.

101.4 Existing buildings. The legal occupancy of any building existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is specifically covered in this code, the Florida Fire Prevention Code, or as is deemed necessary by the building code official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.

101.5.1 Work on individual components or portions. Where determination is made by the code official that a component or a portion of a building or structure is in need of repair, strengthening or replacement by provisions of this code, only that specific component or portion shall be required to be repaired, strengthened or replaced unless specifically required by other provisions of this code.

101.5.2 Design values for existing materials and
construction. The incorporation of existing materials, construction and detailing into the structural system shall be permitted when approved by the building code official. Minimum quality levels and maximum strength values shall comply with this code.

101.7 Appendices. The building code official is authorized to require rehabilitation and retrofit of buildings, structures or individual structural members in accordance with the appendices of this code if such appendices have been individually adopted. When any of such appendices are specifically referenced in the text of this code, they become a part of this code without any special adoption by the local jurisdiction.

101.8 Correction of violations of other codes.
Repairs or alterations mandated by licensing rule or ordinance, adopted pursuant to law, shall conform only to the requirements Chapter 4 Special Occupancy of the Florida Building Code.

SECTION 102
APPLICABILITY

102.1 General. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable.

102.3 Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers, or to provisions not specifically identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section or provision of this code.

102.4.1 Standards and guidelines for structural
evaluation. The building code official shall allow structural evaluation, condition assessment and rehabilitation of buildings, structures or individual structural members based on this code’s appendix chapters, referenced standards, guidelines or other approved standards and procedures.

102.4.2 Compliance with other codes, standards
and guides. Compliance with the structural provisions of the Florida Building Code, shall be deemed exceeding or equivalent to compliance with the structural provisions of this code.

Section 104
Duties and Powers of Code Official

104.1 Preliminary meeting. When requested by
the permit applicant, the code official shall meet with the permit applicant to discuss plans for the proposed work or change of occupancy prior to the application for a construction permit in order to establish the specific applicability of the provisions of this code.

Exception: Repairs, and alterations level 1 and
level 2.

104.1.1 Building evaluation. The building code
official is authorized to require an existing building to be investigated and evaluated by a registered design professional based upon the circumstances agreed upon at the preliminary meeting to determine the existence of any potential nonconformance with the provisions of this code.

104.2 Used materials and equipment. The use of
used materials which meet the requirements of this
code for new materials is permitted. Used equipment and devices shall not be reused unless approved by the building code official.

104.3 Modifications. Wherever there are practical
difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the building code official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, upon application of the owner or owner’s representative, provided the code official shall first find that special individual reason makes the strict letter of this code impractical and the modification is in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not lessen health, accessibility, life and fire safety, or structural requirements. The details of action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the files of the authority having jurisdiction 

Section 105
Permits

105.1 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from
permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

Electrical:

Repairs and maintenance: Minor repair work,
including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.

Temporary testing systems: A permit shall not be
required for the installation of any temporary system
required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus.

Gas:

1. Portable heating appliance.

2. Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.

Mechanical:

1. Portable heating appliance;

2. Portable ventilation equipment;

3. Portable cooling unit;

4. Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any
heating or cooling equipment regulated by this
code;

5. Replacement of any part which does not alter its
approval or make it unsafe;

6. Portable evaporative cooler;

7. Self-contained refrigeration system containing 10
pound (4.54 kg) or less of refrigerant and actuated
by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less.

Plumbing:

The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or
vent pipe; provided, however, that if any concealed
trap, drainpipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe
becomes defective and it becomes necessary to
remove and replace the same with new material,
such work shall be considered as new work and a
permit shall be obtained and inspection made as
provided in this code.

The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures, and the removal and
reinstallation of water closets, provided such repairs
do not involve or require the replacement or
rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.

105.2.1 Emergency repairs. Where equipment
replacements and repairs must be performed in an
emergency situation, the permit application shall be
submitted within the next working business day to the building code official.

105.2.2 Repairs. Application or notice to the building code official is not required for ordinary repairs to structures and items listed in Section 105.2. Such repairs shall not include the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal or cutting of any structural beam or load bearing support, or the removal or change of any required means of egress, or rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the egress requirements; nor shall ordinary repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standpipe, water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electric wiring or mechanical or other work affecting public health or general safety.

105.2.3 Public service agencies. A permit shall not be required for the installation, alteration or repair of generation, transmission, distribution or metering or other related equipment that is under the ownership and control of public service agencies by established right.

CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS

SECTION 201
GENERAL

201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the
following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.

201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present
tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.

201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the other Florida Building Codes, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.

201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this chapter, such terms shall have the meanings as defined in the Florida Building Code or the Webster’s current New Collegiate Dictionary as revised.

SECTION 202
GENERAL DEFINITIONS

Addition. An extension or increase in floor area,
number of stories, or height of a building or structure.

Alteration. Any construction or renovation to an existing structure other than repair or addition. Alterations are classified as Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3

Conventional Light Frame Construction.  
Limitations.  Buildings are permitted to be constructed in accordance with the provisions of conventional light-frame construction, subject to the following limitations:

1.  Buildings shall be limited to a maximum of three stories above grade.
Exception: Solid blocked cripple walls not exceeding 14 inches (356 mm) in height need not be considered a story.

2.  Bearing wall floor-to-floor heights shall not exceed 10 feet (3048 mm).

3.  Loads as determined in Chapter 16 shall not exceed the following:
3.1 Average dead loads shall not exceed 15 psf (718 N/m2) for roofs and exterior walls, floors and partitions.
3.2 Live loads shall not exceed 40 psf (1916 N/m2) for floors.

4.  Wind speeds shall not exceed 100 mph (161 km/hr)(3-second gust).
Exception: Wind speeds shall not exceed 110 mph (177 km/hr) 3-second gust for buildings in Exposure Categories A or B.

5.  Roof trusses and rafters shall not span more than 40 feet (12 192 mm) between points of vertical support.

Change of Occupancy. A change in the purpose or
level of activity within a building that involves a change in application of the requirements of this code.

Dangerous. Any building or structure or any individual
member with any of the structural conditions or defects described below shall be deemed dangerous :

1. The stress in a member or portion thereof, due to
all factored dead and live loads, is more than one
and one third the nominal strength allowed in the
Florida Building Code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose or location.

2. Any portion, member or appurtenance thereof
likely to fail, or to become detached or dislodged,
or to collapse and thereby injure persons.

3. Any portion of a building, or any member,
appurtenance or ornamentation on the exterior
thereof is not of sufficient strength or stability, or is
not so anchored, attached or fastened in place so
as to be capable of resisting a wind pressure of
two thirds of that specified in the Florida  Building Code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose or location without exceeding the nominal strength permitted in the Florida Building Code for such buildings.

4. The building, or any portion thereof, is likely to
partially or completely collapse because of (a)
dilapidation, deterioration or decay; (b) construction in violation of the Florida Building Code; (c) the removal, movement or instability of any portion of the ground necessary for the purpose of supporting such building; (d) the deterioration, decay or inadequacy of its
foundation; (e) damage due to fire, wind or flood; or (f) any other similar cause, or  5. The exterior walls or other vertical structural members list, lean or buckle to such an extent that a plumb line passing through the center of gravity does not fall inside the middle one third of the base.

Equipment or Fixture. Any plumbing, heating,
electrical, ventilating, air conditioning, refrigerating and fire protection equipment, and elevators, dumb waiters, escalators, boilers, pressure vessels and other mechanical facilities or installations, which are related to building services. Equipment or fixture shall not include manufacturing, production or process equipment, but shall include connections from building service to process equipment.

Existing Building. A building or structure or portion of a building or structure which has been previously legally occupied or used for its intended purpose.  Structural Determination.  Structural shall mean any part, material, or assembly of a building of structure which affects the safety of such building or structure and/or which supports any dead load or designed live load and the removal of which part, material or assembly could cause, or be expected to cause, all or any portion to collapse or to fail. 

Flood Hazard Area. 
The area designated as a flood hazard area on a
community’s flood hazard map, or otherwise
legally designated, as per s. 3109 of the Florida Building Code.

Historic Building.   See Chapter 10.

Incidental Use Area.  In cases where use is incidental to some other occupancy, the section of this Code governing the occupancy shall apply.

Load Bearing Element. Any column, girder, beam,
joist, truss, rafter, wall, floor or roof sheathing which
supports any vertical load in addition to its own weight, and/or any lateral load.

Rehabilitation. Any work, as described by the
categories of work defined herein, undertaken in an
existing building.

Repair.  The patching, restoration, and/or minor replacement of materials, elements, components, equipment and/or fixtures for the purposes of maintaining such materials, elements, components, equipment and/or fixtures in good or sound condition.

Structural Determination.  For purposes of this Code structural shall mean any part, material or assembly of a building or structure which affects the safety of such building or structure and/or which supports any dead or designed live load and the removal of which part, material or assembly could cause, or be expected to cause, all or any portion to collapse or fail.

Substantial Damage. For the purpose of determining
compliance with the flood provisions of this code,
damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost of restoring the structure to its before damaged condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred.

Substantial Improvement.   See Section 3109.1.2 of the Florida Building Code.

Substantial Structural Damage. A condition where

1. In any story, the vertical elements of the lateral force resisting system, in any direction and taken as a whole, have suffered damage such that the lateral load carrying capacity has been reduced by more than 20 percent from its pre-damaged condition, or

2. The vertical load carrying components supporting
more than 30 percent of the structure’s floor or roof area have suffered a reduction in vertical load carrying
capacity to below 75% of the Florida Building Code required strength levels calculated by either the strength or allowable stress method.

Work Area. That portion or portions of a building
consisting of all reconfigured, elements, systems or spaces as indicated on the construction documents. Work area excludes other portions of the building where incidental work entailed by the intended work must be performed, and portions of the building where work not initially intended by the owner is specifically required by this code.

CHAPTER 3
CLASSIFICATION OF WORK

SECTION 301
GENERAL

301.1 Scope. The work performed on an existing
building shall be classified in accordance with this
chapter.

301.2 Work area. The work area, as defined in Chapter 2, shall be identified on the construction documents.

301.3 Compliance alternatives. The provisions of
Chapters 4 through 10 are not applicable where the
building complies with Chapter 12.

301.4 Occupancy and Use. When determining the
appropriate application of the referenced sections of this code, the occupancy and use of a building shall be determined in accordance with Chapter 3 of the
Florida Building Code.

301.5 A design professional or any owner must elect one or a combination of levels of alteration pursuant to sections 303, 304, and 305 of the Florida Building Code.

SECTION 302
REPAIRS

302.1 Scope. Repairs, as defined in Chapter 2, include the patching or restoration of materials, elements, equipment or fixtures for the purpose of maintaining such materials, elements, equipment or fixtures in good or sound condition.

302.2 Application. Repairs shall comply with the
provisions of Chapter 4.

SECTION 303
ALTERATION - LEVEL 1

303.1 Scope. Level 1 alterations include the removal
and replacement, or the covering of existing materials,
elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials,
elements, equipment or fixtures that serve the same
purpose.  Level 1 alterations shall not include any removal, replacement, or covering or existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures undertaken for purpose of repair as defined in Chapter 2 and described in Section 302.  

303.2 Application. Level 1 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 5.

SECTION 304
ALTERATION - LEVEL 2

304.1 Scope. Level 2 alterations include the reconfiguration of space, the addition or elimination of
any door or window, the reconfiguration or extension of any system, or the installation of any additional
equipment.

304.2 Application. Level 2 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 5 for Level 1 alterations as well as the provisions of Chapter 6.

SECTION 305
ALTERATION - LEVEL 3

305.1 Scope. Level 3 alterations apply where the work area exceeds 50% of the aggregate area of the building and made within any 12 month period.

Exception: Work areas in which the alteration work is exclusively plumbing, mechanical, or electrical shall not be included in the computation of total area of all work areas.

305.2 Application. Level 3 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapters 5 and 6 for Level 1 and 2 alterations, respectively, as well as the provisions of Chapter 7.

SECTION 306
CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY

306.1 Scope. Change of occupancy provisions apply
where the activity is classified a change of occupancy as defined in Chapter 2.

306.2 Application. Changes of occupancy shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 8.

SECTION 307
ADDITIONS

307.1 Scope. Provisions for additions shall apply where work is classified an addition as defined in Chapter 2,

307.2 Application. Additions to existing buildings shall
comply with the provisions of Chapter 9.

SECTION 308
HISTORIC BUILDINGS

308.1 Scope. Historic buildings provisions shall apply to buildings classified as historic as defined in Chapter 10.

308.2 Application. Except as specifically provided for in Chapter 10, historic buildings shall comply with
applicable provisions of this code for the type of work
being performed

SECTION 309
RELOCATED BUILDINGS

309.1 Scope. Relocated buildings provisions shall apply to relocated or moved buildings.

309.2 Application. Relocated buildings shall comply
with the provisions of Chapter 11.

CHAPTER 4
REPAIRS

SECTION 401
GENERAL

401.1 Scope. Repairs, as described in Section 302,
shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter.
Repairs to historic buildings shall comply with this
chapter, except as modified in Chapter 10.

401.2 Permitted materials. Except as otherwise
required herein, work shall be done using materials
permitted by the applicable code for new construction or using like materials such that no hazard to life, health or property is created.

Exception: Repairs to a historic building shall be permitted using original or like materials.  Materials shall comply with sections 403.1 and 403.2.

401.3 Conformance. The work shall not make the
building less conforming with the building, plumbing,
mechanical, electrical or fire codes of the jurisdiction, or with alternative materials, design and methods of
construction or any previously approved plans,
modifications, alternate methods or compliance
alternatives, than it was before the repair was undertaken.

401.4 Flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas,
repairs that constitute substantial improvement shall
require that the building comply with Florida Building Code Section 1609 (HVHZ shall comply with section 1617.9) and Chapter 31.

401.5 Dangerous buildings.  When a historic building is determined as dangerous, no work shall be required except as necessary to correct identified dangerous conditions.

SECTION 402
Reserved

SECTION 403
BUILDING ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS

403.1 Hazardous materials. Hazardous materials no
longer permitted, such as asbestos and lead-based
paint, shall not be used.

403.2 Glazing in hazardous locations. Replacement
glazing in hazardous locations shall comply with the
Safety Glazing requirements of the Florida Building Code as applicable:

Exception: Glass block walls, louvered windows and
jalousies repaired with like materials.

403.3 Replacement.  For repairs in a historic buildng, replacement or partial replacement of existing or missing features that match the original in configuration, height, size and original methods of construction shall be permitted.

Exception: Glazing in hazardous locations shall comply with s. 403.2.

SECTION 404
FIRE PROTECTION

404.1 General.  Repairs shall be done in a manner that maintains the level of fire protection provided.

SECTION 405
MEANS OF EGRESS

405.1 General.  Repairs shall be done in a manner that maintains the level of protection provided for the means of egress.

SECTION 406
ACCESSIBILITY

406.1 General. Repairs shall be done in accordance with Chapter 11 of the Florida Building Code.

SECTION 407
STRUCTURAL

407.1 General. Repairs of structural elements shall
comply with this section.

407.1.1  Non-structural repairs and alterations exclusive of fixtures and furniture, the cost of which does not exceed 25 percent of the replacement value of the existing building or structure with the approval of the building official may be made of the same material of which the building or structure is constructed.

407.1.2 Wind design. Wind design of existing
buildings shall be in accordance with the building codes in effect when the building was permitted.

407.2 Reduction of strength. Repairs shall not reduce the structural strength or stability of the building, structure or any individual member thereof.

Exception: Such reduction shall be allowed provided
the capacity is not reduced to below the Florida Building Code levels.

407.3 Damaged buildings. Damaged buildings shall be repaired in accordance with this section.

407.3.1 New structural frame members. New
structural frame members, used in the repair of
undamaged buildings, including anchorage and
connections, shall comply with the Florida Building Code.

407.3.2 Substantial structural damage. buildings
which have sustained substantial structural damage
shall comply with this section

407.3.2.1 Engineering evaluation and analysis.
An engineering evaluation and analysis which establishes the structural adequacy of the damaged building shall be prepared by a Florida registered engineer or architect and submitted to the building official. The evaluation and analysis may assume that all undamaged structural elements and systems have their original strength and stiffness. After the building is repaired, the evaluation and analysis shall demonstrate that the building once repaired complies with the wind provisions of the Florida Building Code.

407.3.3 Below substantial structural damage.
Repairs to buildings damaged to a level below the
substantial structural damage level as defined in
Section 202 shall be allowed to be made with the
materials, methods and strengths in existence prior to
the damage unless such existing conditions are dangerous as defined in Chapter 2. New structural
frame members, as defined in chapter 2, shall comply
with Section 407.3.1.

407.3.4 Other uncovered structural elements.
Where in the course of conducting repairs, other
uncovered structural elements are found to be
unsound or otherwise structurally deficient, such
elements shall be made to conform to the
requirements of Section 407.3.2.1.1.

407.3.5 Flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas,
damaged buildings that sustain substantial damage
shall be brought into compliance with Florida Building Code Section 1609 (HVHZ shall comply with Section 1617.9) and Chapter 31.

SECTION 408
ELECTRICAL

408.1 Material . Existing electrical wiring and equipment undergoing repair shall be allowed to be repaired or replaced with like material in accordance with Chapter 27 of the Florida Building Code.

Exceptions:

1.	Existing electrical wiring and equipment undergoing repair shall be permitted to be repaired or replaced with like material.

2.	For replacement of nongrounding-type receptacles with grounding-type receptacles and for branch circuits that do not have an equipment grounding conductor in the branch circuitry, the grounding conductor of a grounding type receptacle outlet shall be permitted to be grounded to any accessible point on the grounding electrode system or to any accessible point on the grounding electrode conductor, in accordance with Article 250-130 (C) of NFPA 70.

3.	Frames of electric ranges, wall-mounted ovens, counter-mounted cooking units, clothes dryers, and outlet or junction boxes that are part of the existing branch circuit for these appliances shall be permitted to be grounded to the grounded circuit conductor in accordance with Article 250-140 of NFPA 70.

SECTION 409
MECHANICAL

409.1 General. Existing mechanical systems undergoing repair shall comply with Section 301.12 of the Florida Mechanical Code.

SECTION 410
PLUMBING

410.1 Materials. The following plumbing materials and supplies shall not be used:

1. Sheet and tubular copper and brass trap and
tailpiece fittings less than the minimum wall
thickness of .027” (0.69 mm) .

2. Solder having more than 0.2% lead in the repair of
potable water systems.

3. Water closets having a concealed trap seal or an
unventilated space or having walls that are not throughly washed at each discharge in accordance with ASME A112.19.2.

4. The following types of joints shall be prohibited:

4.1. Cement or concrete joints.
4.2. Mastic or hot-pour bituminous joints.
4.3. Joints made with fittings not approved for
the specific installation.
4.4. Joints between different diameter pipes
made with elasto-meric rolling O-rings.
4.5. Solvent-cement joints between different
types of plastic pipe.
4.6. Saddle-type fittings.

5. The following type of traps are prohibited:

5.1. Traps that depend on moving parts to
maintain the seal.
5.2. Bell traps
5.3. Crown-vented traps
5.4. Traps not integral with a fixture and that depend on interior partitions for the seal, except those traps constructed of an approved material that is resistant to
corrosion and degradation.

410.2 Plumbing Fixture replacement. When any plumbing fixture is replaced, the replacement plumbing fixture shall comply with the Florida Plumbing Code. 

Exception : Blowout design water closets [3.5
gallons (13 L) per flushing cycle].

CHAPTER 5
ALTERATIONS - LEVEL 1

SECTION 501
GENERAL

501.1 Scope. Level 1 alterations, as described in
Section 303 shall comply with the requirements of this
Chapter. Level 1 alterations to historic buildings shall
comply with this chapter, except as modified in Chapter 10.

501.2 Conformance. An existing building or portion
thereof shall not be altered such that the building
becomes less safe or energy efficient than its existing condition. If, in the alteration the current level of safety or sanitation is to be reduced, the portion altered shall conform to the requirements of the Florida Building Code.

501.3 Flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas,
alterations that constitute substantial improvement shall require that the building comply with Florida Building Code Section 1609 (HVHZ shall comply with Section 1617.9) and Chapter 31.

SECTION 502
Reserved

SECTION 503
BUILDING ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS

503.1 Interior finishes. All newly installed interior
finishes shall comply with the flame spread requirements of the Florida Building Code.

503.2 Carpeting. New carpeting used as an interior
floor finish material shall comply with the radiant flux
requirements of the Florida Building Code.

503.3 Materials and methods: All new work shall
comply with materials and methods requirements in the Florida Building Code and the Florida Fire Prevention Code as applicable, that specify material standards, detail of installation and connection, joints, penetrations and continuity of any element, component or system in the building.

SECTION 504
FIRE PROTECTION

504.1 Repairs shall be done in a manner that maintains the level of fire protection provided.

SECTION 505
MEANS OF EGRESS

505.1 General. Means of egress for buildings
undergoing alteration shall comply with the requirements of Section 501.1 and the scoping provisions of Chapter 1 where applicable.

Exception: Door and window dimensions.  In residential dwellings and dwelling units, a maximum of 5% reduction in the clear opening dimensions of replacement doors and windows shall be allowed.  See Chapter 11, Florida Building Code.

SECTION 506
ACCESSIBILITY

506.1 Accessibility shall be in accordance with Chapter 11 of the Florida Building Code.

SECTION 507
STRUCTURAL

507.1 General. Where alteration work includes
replacement of equipment that is supported by the
building or where a re-roofing permit is required, the
structural provisions of this section shall apply.

507.2 Design criteria . Existing structural components supporting alteration work shall comply with this section.

Exception:  Non-structural repairs and alterations exclusive of fixtures and furniture, the cost of which does not exceed 25 percent of the value of the existing building or structure with the approval of the building official may be made of the same material of which the building or structure is constructed.

507.2.1 Replacement of roofing or equipment.
Where replacement of roofing or equipment results in
additional dead loads, structural components supporting such re-roofing or equipment shall comply
with the vertical load requirements of the Florida Building Code.

Exceptions :

1. Structural elements whose stress is not increased by more than 5 percent.

2. Buildings constructed in accordance with or the
conventional construction methods of the
Florida Building Code and where the additional dead load from the equipment is not increased by more than 5 percent.

507.2.2 Roof diaphragm. Where roofing materials are removed from more than 50% of the roof diaphragm of a building or section of a building where the roof diaphragm is a part of the main wind force resisting system the integrity of the roof diaphragm shall be evaluated and if found deficient due to insufficient or deteriorated connections such connections shall be provided or replaced.

507.3.  Replacement of windows and doors.  The replacement of garage doors, exterior doors, skylight, operative and inoperative windows shall be designed and constructed to comply with Chapter 16 of Florida Building Code.

Opening protection exception: For one-and two-family dwellings constructed under codes other than the Florida Building Code and located in wind-borne debris regions, the replacement of garage doors and exterior doors with glazing, sliding glass doors, glass patio doors, skylights, and operable and inoperable windows within any 12 month period shall not be required to have opening protection, but shall be designed for wind pressures for enclosed buildings provided the aggregate area of the glazing in the replaced components does not exceed 25% of the aggregate area of the glazed openings in the dwelling or dwelling unit.

507.4  Openings in sunrooms, enclosed balconies, and enclosed porches constructed under existing roofs or decks are not required to be protected provided the space is separated from the building interior by a wall and all openings in the separating wall are protected in accordance with s. 1606.1.4 of the Florida Building Code.  Such spaces shall be permitted to be designed as enclosed or partially enclosed.

Section 508 
Electrical

508.1 Residential R3 Occupancies
508.1.1  Existing Wiring and Equipment.  Existing electrical wiring and equipment undergoing repair shall be permitted to be repaired or replaced with like material.

508.1.2  Replacement of Receptacles.  For replacement of nongrounding-type receptacles with grounding-type receptacles and for branch circuits that do not have an equipment grounding conductor in the branch circuitry, the grounding conductor of a grounding-type receptacle outlet shall be permitted to be grounded to any accessible point on the grounding electrode system, or to any accessible point on the grounding electrode conductor, in accordance with Article 250-130 (C) of NFPA-70.

508.1.3 Appliances.  Frames of electric ranges, wall-mounted ovens, counter-mounted cooking units, clothes dryers, and outlet or junction boxes that are part of the existing branch circuit for these appliances shall be permitted to be grounded to the grounded circuit conductor in accordance with Article 250-140 of NFPA 70.

Section 509 
Mechanical

Section 509.1  General.  Existing mechanical systems undergoing repair shall comply with Section 301.12 of the Florida Mechanical Code.

Section 510 
Plumbing

510.1 Materials.  The following plumbing materials and supplies shall not be used:

1.  Sheet and tubular copper and brass trap and tailpiece fittings less than the minimum wall thickness of .027” (0.69 mm).

2.	Solder having more than 0.2% lead in the repair of potable water systems.

3.	Water closets having a concealed trap seal or an unventilated space or having walls that are not thoroughly washed at each discharge in accordance with ASME A112.19.2.

4.	The following types of joints shall be prohibited:
4.1	Mastic or hot-pour bituminous joints.
4.2	Joints made with fittings not approved for the specific installation.
4.3	Joints between different diameter pipes made with elasto-meric rolling O-rings.
4.4	Solven-cement joints between different types of plastic pipe.
4.5	Saddle-type fittings.

5.	The following type of traps are prohibited:
5.1	Traps that depend on moving parts to maintain the seal.
5.2	Bell traps.
5.3	Crown-vented traps.
5.4	Traps not integral with a fixture and that depend on interior partitions for the seal, except those traps constructed of an approved material that is resistant to corrosion and degradation.

510.2	Water closet replacement.  When any water closet is replaced, the replacement water closet shall comply with the Florida Plumbing Code.  The maximum water consumption flow rates and quantities for all replaced water closets shall be 1.6 gallons (6 L) per flushing cycle.

Exception:  Blowout design water closets [3.5 gallons (13 L) per flushing cycle].

SECTION 511
REROOFING

511.1 General. Materials and methods of application used for recovering or replacing an existing roof covering shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 15. Roof repairs to existing roofs and roof coverings shall comply with the provisions of this Code,

EXCEPTION. Reroofing shall not be required to meet the minimum design slope requirement of 1/4:12 in §1508 of the Florida Building Code for roofs that provide positive roof drainage (HVHZ shall comply with Section 1515.2.2.1 and 1515.2.2.2 of the Florida Building Code).

511.2 Structural and construction loads. The structural roof components shall be capable of supporting the roof covering system and the material and equipment loads that will be encountered during installation of the roof covering system.

511.3 Recovering vs. replacement. New roof coverings shall not be installed without first removing existing roof coverings where any of the following conditions occur.

1. When the old roofing is water-soaked or deteriorated to the point that it is not suitable as a base for additional roofing.

2. When blisters exist in any roofing, unless blisters are cut or scraped open and nailed down before applying additional roofing.

3. When the existing roof surface is gravel or the like, the gravel shall be thoroughly removed or all loose gravel removed and approved base material installed before applying additional roofing.

4. When existing roof is slate or the like.

5. When sheathing or supports are deteriorated to the point that the roof structural system is not substantial enough to support recovering.

6. When existing roof has two or more applications of any type roofing material. Conformance with this item shall make replacement mandatory.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. Building and structures located within the High Velocity Hurricane Zone shall comply with the provisions of Section 1512 – 1525 of the Florida Building Code

2. When the structural deck is concrete and the existing roof is firmly attached to the deck, then the roof shall be removed down to a minimum of three plies of moisture free felts.

3. When otherwise approved by the building official.

4. Wood shingles or shakes shall not be placed over more than one application of wood or asphalt shingles. Wood shingles or shakes may be placed over existing shakes when installed in accordance with Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau recommendations.

511.4 Roof recovering. Where the application of a new roof covering over wood shingle or shake roofs creates a combustible concealed space, the entire existing surface shall be covered with gypsum board, mineral fiber, glass fiber or other approved materials securely fastened in place.

511.5 Reinstallation of materials. Existing slate, clay or cement tile shall be permitted for reinstallation, except that damaged, cracked or broken slate or tile shall not be reinstalled. Existing vent flashing, metal edgings, drain outlets, collars and metal counterflashings shall not be reinstalled where rusted, damaged or deteriorated. Aggregate surfacing materials shall not be reinstalled, (HVHZ shall comply with Section 1512 – 1525 of the Florida Building Code). 

511.6 Flashings. Flashings shall be reconstructed in accordance with roof covering manufacturer's installation instructions. Metal flashing to which bituminous materials are to be adhered shall be primed prior to installation, (HVHZ shall comply with Sections 1512 – 1525 of the Florida Building Code).

Section 512 
Energy Conservation

512.1  Minimum requirements.  Alterations subject to this chapter shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 13 of the Florida Building Code.

CHAPTER 6
ALTERATIONS - LEVEL 2

SECTION 601
GENERAL

601.1 Scope. Level 2 alterations, as described in
Section 304 shall comply with the requirements of this
Chapter.

Exception: Buildings in which the reconfiguration is
exclusively the result of compliance with the accessibility requirements of Chapter 11 of the Florida Building Code shall be permitted to comply with Chapter 5.

601.2 Alteration level 1 compliance. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, all work shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 5.

601.3 Compliance. All new construction elements,
components and systems and spaces shall comply with the requirements of the Florida Building Code.

Exceptions:

1. Operable windows may be added without requiring compliance with the light, energy and ventilation requirements of the Florida Building Code.

2. Newly installed electrical equipment shall
comply with the requirements of Section 608.0.

3. Dead end corridors in newly constructed
spaces need only comply with the provisions of
Section 605.6.

4. The minimum ceiling height of the newly
created habitable and occupiable spaces and
corridors in one and two family dwellings shall be 7 feet.

SECTION 602
SPECIAL OCCUPANCY

602.1 General. Alteration of buildings, classified as public education facilities and state licensed facilities
as described in the Florida Building Code, Chapter 4, shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 4, Florida Building Code.

SECTION 603
BUILDING ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS

603.1 Scope. The requirements of this section are
limited to work areas in which Level 2 alterations are
being performed, and shall apply beyond the work area where specified.

603.2 Vertical openings. Existing vertical openings
shall comply with the provisions of Sections 603.2.1,
603.2.2 and 603.2.3.

603.2.1 Existing Vertical Openings. All existing
interior vertical openings connecting two or more
floors shall comply with the appropriate sections of the Florida Fire Prevention Code. 

Exceptions:

1. One-and two-family dwellings.

2. Group S Occupancies, vertical opening protection is not required for open parking garages and ramps.

603.2.2 Supplemental shaft and floor opening
enclosure requirements. Where the work area on
any floor exceeds 50 percent of that floor area, the
enclosure requirements of Section 603.2 shall apply
to vertical openings other than stairways throughout
the floor:

Exception: Vertical openings located in tenant
spaces that are entirely outside the work area.

603.2.3 Supplemental stairway enclosure
requirements. Where the work area on any floor
exceeds 50 percent of that floor area, stairways that
are part of the means of egress serving the work area
shall at a minimum be enclosed with smoke tight
construction on the highest work area floor and all
floors below.

Exception: Where stairway enclosure is not
required by the Florida Building Code or the
Florida Fire Prevention Code.

603.3 Smoke barriers. Smoke barriers in Group I Unrestrained shall be installed where required by Sections 603.3.1 and 603.3.2.

603.3.1 Compartmentation.  See S. 409.1 of the Florida Building Code.  

603.3.2 Fire-resistance rating. The smoke barriers
shall be constructed in accordance with the Florida 
Building Code or the Florida Fire Prevention Code.

603.4 Interior finish. The interior finish of walls and
ceilings in exits and corridors in any work area shall
comply with the requirements of the Florida Building Code.

Exception: Existing interior finish materials which do
not comply with the interior finish requirements of the
Florida Building Code shall be permitted to be treated with an approved fire retardant coating in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions to achieve the required rating.

603.4.1 Supplemental interior finish requirements.
Where the work area on any floor exceeds 50
percent of the floor area, Section 603.4 shall also
apply to the interior finish in exits and corridors
serving the work area throughout the floor.

Exception: Interior finish within tenant spaces
that are entirely outside the work area.

603.5 Guardrails. The requirements of Sections 603.5.1
and 603.5.2 shall apply in all work areas.

603.5.1 Minimum requirement. Every portion of a
floor, such as a balcony or a loading dock that is
more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or
grade below and not provided with guards, or those
in which the existing guards are judged to be in
danger of collapsing, shall be provided with guards.

603.5.2 Design. Where there are no guards or
existing guards must be replaced, the guards shall be
designed and installed in accordance with the
Florida Building Code.

Exception: Where existing guards are replaced, the design may match the existing design.

SECTION 604
FIRE PROTECTION

604.1 Scope. The requirements of this section shall be limited to work areas in which Level 2 alterations are being performed, and where specified they shall apply throughout the floor on which the work areas are located, or otherwise beyond the work area.

604.2 Automatic sprinkler systems. Automatic
sprinkler systems shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of Sections 604.2.1 through 604.2.5. Installation requirements shall be in accordance with the Florida Building Code.

604.2.1 High rise buildings.  See S. 412 of the Florida Building Code.  

604.2.3 Windowless stories. Work located in a
windowless story as determined in accordance with
the Florida Building Code shall be sprinklered where the work area would be required to be sprinklered under the provisions of the Florida Building Code as a newly constructed building.

604.2.4 Other required suppression systems In
buildings and areas indicated in Section 903 of the Florida Building Code, or the Florida Fire Prevention Code, work areas include exits or corridors shared by more than one tenant or serving an occupant load greater than 30 shall be provided with sprinkler protection where the following conditions occur: the work area would be required to be provided with automatic sprinkler protection in accordance with the Florida Building Code applicable to new construction.

604.2.5 Supervision. Fire sprinkler systems required
by this Section shall be supervised by one of the
following methods:

1. Approved central station system in accordance
with NFPA 72;

2. Approved proprietary system in accordance with
NFPA 72;

3. Approved remote station system of the jurisdiction
in accordance with NFPA 72; or

Exceptions: Supervision is not required for the
following :

1. Underground gate valve with roadway boxes;

2. Halogenated extinguishing systems;

3. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems;

4. Dry and wet chemical extinguishing systems;

5. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R where a common supply main is used to supply both domestic and automatic sprinkler systems and a separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not provided.

604.3 Standpipes. Where the work area includes exits or corridors shared by more than one tenant and is located more than 50 feet (15240 mm) above or below the lowest level of fire department access, a standpipe system shall be provided. Standpipes shall have an approved fire department connection with hose connections at each floor level above or below the lowest level of fire department access. Standpipe
systems shall be installed in accordance with the
Florida Building Code.

Exceptions:

1. No pump shall be required provided that the
standpipes are capable of accepting delivery by
fire department apparatus of a minimum of 250
gpm at 65 psi (946 L/m at 448KPa) to the topmost
floor in buildings equipped throughout with an
automatic sprinkler system or a minimum of 500
gpm at 65 psi (1892 L/m at 448KPa) to the
topmost floor in all other buildings. Where the
standpipe terminates below the topmost floor, the
standpipe shall be designed to meet (gpm/psi)
(L/m/KPa) requirements of this exception for
possible future extension of the standpipe.

2. The interconnection of multiple standpipe risers
shall not be required.

604.4 Fire alarm and detection. An approved fire alarm system shall comply with the appropriate sections of the Florida Fire Prevention Code for existing buildings.

604.4.3 Smoke Alarms. Individual guestrooms and
individual dwelling units in any work area in Group R
1, R2, R3, R4 and I shall be provided with smoke
alarms in accordance with the Florida Fire Prevention Code.

Exception: Interconnection of smoke alarms
outside of the rehabilitation work area shall not be
required.

SECTION 605
MEANS OF EGRESS

605.1 Scope. The requirements of this section shall be limited to work areas that include exits or corridors
shared by more than one tenant within the work area in which Level 2 alterations are being performed, and
where specified they shall apply throughout the floor on which the work areas are located, or otherwise beyond the work area.

605.2 General. The means of egress shall comply with the requirements of this section.

Exception:

1. Where the work area and the means of egress
serving it complies with NFPA 101.

2. Means of egress conforming to the requirements
of the Florida Building Code and the Florida Fire Prevention Code under which the building was constructed shall be considered as complying means of egress if, in the opinion of the code official, they do not constitute a distinct hazard to life.

605.3 Number of exits. The number of exits shall be in accordance with the appropriate sections of the Florida Fire Prevention Code. 

Exception: In building Group R3 Occupancies shall comply with the Florida Building Code.

605.3.1.2 Fire escapes required. Fire escapes shall comply with the appropriate sections of the Florida Fire Prevention Code.  

605.3.2 Mezzanines. Travel distance for mezzanines shall comply with Table 1005.78 of the Florida Building Code

605.3.3 Main entrance - Group A. All buildings of
Group A with an occupant load of 100 or more shall
be provided with a main entrance capable of serving
as the main exit with an egress capacity for at least
one-half the total occupant load. The remaining exits
shall be capable of providing one-half of the total
required exit capacity.

Exception: Where there is no well-defined main
exit or where multiple main exits are provided,
exits shall be permitted to be distributed around
the perimeter of the building provided that the total
width of egress is not less than 100 percent of the
required width.

605.4 Egress doorways. Egress doorways in any work area shall comply with Sections 605.4.1 through 605.4.5.

605.4.1 Two egress doorways required. Work
areas shall be provided with two egress doorways in
accordance with the requirements of Sections
605.4.1.1 and 605.4.1.2.

605.4.1.1 Occupant load and travel distance. In
any work area, all rooms and spaces having an
occupant load greater than 50 or in which the
travel distance exceeds 75 feet (22 860 mm) shall
have a minimum of two egress doorways.

Exception:

Storage rooms in S1 and S2 Occupancies having a maximum occupant load of 10.

605.4.1.2 Group I Unrestrained. In buildings of Group I Unrestrained Occupancy, any patient sleeping room or suite of patient rooms greater than 1,000 square feet (93 m2) within the work area shall have a minimum of two egress doorways.

605.4.2 Door swing. In the work area and in the
egress path from any work area to the exit discharge,
all egress doors serving an occupant load greater
than 50 shall swing in the direction of exit travel. 

Exception: 

Means of egress within or serving only a tenant space that is entirely outside the work area.

605.4.2.1 Supplemental requirements for door swing.  Where work area exceeds 50 percent of the floor area, door swing shall comply with Section 605.4.2 throughout the floor.

Exception:  Within other tenant space.

605.4.3 Door closing. In any work area, all doors
opening onto an exit passageway at grade or exit
stair shall be self-closing or automatically closing by
listed closing devices. 

Exceptions:

1. Where exit enclosure is not required by the
Florida Building Code.

2. Means of egress within or serving only a tenant space that is entirely outside the work area.

605.4.3.1 Supplemental requirements for door closing.  Where work area exceeds 50 percent of the floor area, doors shall comply with Section 605.4.3 throughout the exit stair from the work area to the level of exit discharge.

605.4.4 Panic hardware. In any work area, and in
the egress path from any work area to the exit
discharge, in buildings or portions thereof of Group A
assembly occupancies with an occupant load greater
than 100, all required exit doors equipped with
latching devices shall be equipped with approved
panic hardware. 

Exception: Means of egress within a tenant
space that is entirely outside the work area.

605.4.4.1 Supplemental requirements for panic hardware.  Where work area exceeds 50 percent of the floor area, panic hardware shall comply with Section 605.4.4 throughout the floor.

Exception:  Within other tenant spaces.

605.4.5 Emergency power source in Group I Unrestrained.  Work areas in buildings of Group I Restrained Occupancy having remote power unlocking capability for more than 10 locks shall be provided with an emergency power source for such locks. Power shall be arranged to automatically operate upon failure of normal power within 10 seconds and for a duration of not less than 1 1/2 hour.

605.5.1 Corridor doors. 

605.5.1.1 Corridor doors in the work area shall not be constructed of hollow core wood and shall not contain louvers. 

605.5.1.2  All replacement doors shall be 1 ¾ inch (45
mm) solid bonded wood core or approved equal,
unless the existing frame will accommodate only a 1
d inch (35 mm) door.

605.5.1.3 All dwelling units, guest room or rooming unit corridor doors in work areas in buildings of Groups R1, R2, and R4 shall be at least 13/8 inch (35 mm) solid core wood or approved equal and shall not have any glass panels, other than approved wired glass or other approved glazing material in metal frames.  All dwelling units, guest room or rooming unit corridor doors in work areas in buildings of Groups R1, R2, and R4 doors shall be equipped with approved door closures.

Exceptions:

1. Corridor doors within a dwelling unit or
guestroom.

2. Existing doors meeting the requirements of
HUD Guideline on Fire Ratings of Archaic
Materials and Assemblies for a rating of 15
minutes or better shall be accepted as meeting
the provisions of this requirement.

3. Existing doors in buildings protected
throughout with an approved automatic
sprinkler system shall be required only to resist
smoke, be reasonably tight fitting and shall be equipped with approved door closure and shall not
contain louvers.

4. In group homes with a maximum of 15
occupants, and which are protected with an
approved automatic detection system, closing
devices may be omitted.

5. Door assemblies having a fire resistance rating of at least 20 minutes.

605.5.2 Transoms. In all buildings of Group I, R1
and R2 Occupancy all transoms in corridor walls in
work areas shall be either glazed with ¼-inch (6.4
mm) wired glass set in metal frames or other glazing
assemblies having a fire protection rating as required
for the door and permanently secured in the closed
position or sealed with materials consistent with the
corridor construction.

605.5.3 Other corridor openings. In any work area,
any other sash, grill or opening in a corridor, and any
window in a corridor not opening to the outside air,
shall be sealed with materials consistent with the
corridor construction. 

Exception: Means of egress within or serving only a tenant space that is entirely outside the work area.

605.5.4 Supplemental requirements for corridor
openings. Where the work area on any floor exceeds 50 percent of the floor area, this section shall be applicable to all corridor windows, grills, sash and other openings on the floor

605.6 Dead end corridors. Dead end corridors in any
work area shall comply with the requirements of Table 1004 of the Florida Building Code.  

605.7 Means of egress lighting. Means of egress
lighting shall be in accordance with this section, as
applicable.

605.7.1 Artificial lighting required. Means of egress
in all work areas shall be provided with artificial lighting in accordance with the requirements of the Florida Building Code.

605.7.2 Supplemental requirements for means of
egress lighting. Where the work area on any floor
exceeds 50 percent of that floor area, means of egress lighting throughout the floor shall comply with Section 605.7.1.

Exception: Means of egress within or serving only a tenant space that is entirely outside the work area.

605.8 Exit signs. Exit signs shall be in accordance with this section, as applicable.

605.8.1 Work areas. Means of egress in all work
areas shall be provided with exit signs in accordance
with the requirements of the Florida Building Code.

605.8.2 Supplemental requirements for exit signs.
Where the work area on any floor exceeds 50
percent of that floor area, means of egress existing signs throughout the floor shall comply with Section
605.8.1.

Exception: Means of egress within or serving only a tenant space that is entirely outside the work area.

605.9 Handrails. The requirements of Sections 605.9.1
and 605.9.2 shall apply to handrails from work area
floor to the level of exit discharge.

605.9.1 Minimum requirement. Every required exit
stairway that is part of the means of egress for any
work area and that has three or more risers and is not
provided with at least one handrail, or in which the
existing handrails are judged to be in danger of
collapsing, shall be provided with handrails for the full
length of the run of steps on at least one side. All exit
stairways with a required egress width of more than
66 inches shall have handrails on both sides.

605.9.2 Design. Handrails required in accordance
with Section 605.9.1, shall be designed and installed
in accordance with the provisions of the Florida Building Code.

Exception: Handrails being replaced in part may match the existing design.

605.10 Guardrails. The requirements of Sections
605.10.1 and 605.10.2 shall apply to guardrails from work area floor to the level of exit discharge, but shall be confined to the egress path of any work area.

605.10.1 Minimum requirement. Every open portion
of a stair, landing, or balcony that is more than 30
inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below and
not provided with guardrails, or those in which the
existing guardrails are judged to be in danger of
collapsing, shall be provided with guardrails.

605.10.2 Design. Guardrails required in accordance
with Section 605.10.1 shall be designed and installed
in accordance with the Florida Building Code.

SECTION 606
ACCESSIBILITY

606.1 General. A building, facility or element that is
altered shall comply Chapter 11 of the Florida Building Code.

Exception: Guardrails being replaced in part may match the existing design.

SECTION 607
STRUCTURAL

607.1 General. Where alteration work includes installation of additional equipment that is structurally
supported by the building or reconfiguration of space
such that portions of the building become subjected to
higher gravity loads as required by Tables 1604.1 and
1604.3 (HVHZ shall comply with Table 1614 and Section 1614.2) of the Florida Building Code, the provisions of this section shall apply.

607.2 Reduction of strength. Alterations shall not
reduce the structural strength or stability of the building, structure or any individual member thereof.

Exception: Such reduction shall be allowed as long
as the strength and the stability of the building are not
reduced to below the Florida Building Code levels.

607.3 New structural members. New structural
members in alterations, including connections and
anchorage, shall comply with the Florida Building Code.

607.4 Existing structural members. Existing structural components supporting additional equipment or subjected to additional loads based on Florida Building Code Tables 1604.1 and 1604.3 (HVHZ shall comply with Table 1614 and Section 1614.2) as a result of a reconfiguration of spaces shall comply with Sections 607.4.1 through 607.4.3.

607.4.1 Gravity loads. Existing structural elements
supporting any additional gravity loads as a result of
additional equipment or space reconfiguration shall
comply with the Florida Building Code.

Exceptions:

1. Structural elements whose stress is not
increased by more than 5 percent.

2. Buildings of Group R Occupancy with not more
than 5 dwelling units or guest rooms used
solely for residential purposes where the
existing building and its alteration comply with
the Conventional Light-Frame Construction 
methods as defined in Chapter 2.  

SECTION 608
ELECTRICAL

608.1 New installations. All newly-installed electrical
equipment and wiring relating to work done in any work area shall comply with the materials and methods requirements of Chapter 27 of the Florida Building Code.

608.2 Existing installations. Existing wiring in all work areas in Use Groups A1, A2, H, and I shall be upgraded to meet the requirements of Chapter 27 of the Florida Building Code.

608. 3 Residential occupancies. In Groups R2, R3, R
4 Occupancies and buildings regulated by the Florida Building Code, the requirements of Sections 608.3.1 through 608.3.7 shall be applicable only to work areas located within a dwelling unit.

608.3.1 Enclosed areas. All enclosed areas, other
than closets, kitchens, basements, garages, hallways, laundry areas, utility areas, storage areas and bathrooms shall have a minimum of two duplex
receptacle outlets or one duplex receptacle outlet and
one ceiling or wall type lighting outlet.

608.3.2 Kitchens. Kitchen areas shall have a
minimum of two duplex receptacle outlets.

608.3.3 Laundry areas. Laundry areas shall have a
minimum of one duplex receptacle outlet located near
the laundry.

608.3.5 Minimum lighting outlets. At least one
lighting outlet shall be provided in every bathroom,
hallway, stairway, attached garage and detached
garage with electric power, and to illuminate outdoor
entrances and exits.

608.3.6 Utility rooms and basements At least one
lighting outlet shall be provided in utility rooms and
basements where these spaces are used for storage
or contain equipment requiring service.

608.3.7 Residential R3 Occupancies.

608.3.7.1Existing electrical wiring.  Existing electrical wiring and equipment undergoing repair or replacement shall be permitted to be repaired or replaced with like material.

608.3.7.2 Replacement receptacles.  For replacement of nongrounding-type receptacles with grounding-type. receptacles and for branch circuits that do not have an equipment grounding conductor in the branch circuitry, the grounding conductor of a grounding type receptacle outlet shall be permitted to be grounded to any accessible point on the grounding electrode system, or to any accessible point on the grounding electrode conductor, in accordance with Article 250-130(c) of NFPA 70.

608.3.7.3 Appliances.  Frames of electric ranges, wall-mounted ovens, counter-mounted cooking units, clothes dryers, and outlet or junction boxes that are part of the existing branch circuit for these appliances shall be permitted to be grounded to the grounded circuit conductor in accordance with Article 250-140 of NFPA 70.

SECTION 609
MECHANICAL

609.1 Reconfigured or converted spaces. All
reconfigured spaces intended for occupancy and all
spaces converted to habitable or occupiable space in
any work area shall be provided with either natural or
mechanical ventilation or exhaust in accordance with the Florida Mechanical Code.

609.2 Existing mechanical systems.  Existing mechanical systems undergoing repair shall comply with Section 301.12 of the Florida Mechanical Code.

SECTION 610
PLUMBING

610.1 Minimum fixtures. Where the occupant load of
the story is increased by more than 20 percent, plumbing fixtures for the story shall be provided in quantities specified in the Florida Plumbing Code based on the increased occupant load.

610.1.1 Replacement fixtures. Replacement fixtures shall be installed in accordance with the Florida Plumbing Code.

610.2 Materials. The following plumbing materials and supplies shall not be used:

1. Sheet and tubular copper and brass trap and tailpiece fittings less than the minimum wall thickness of .027” (0.69 mm) .

2. Solder having more than 0.2% lead in the repair of potable water systems.

3. Water closets having a concealed trap seal or an unventilated space or having walls that are not thoroughly washed at each discharge in accordance with ASME A112.19.2.

4. The following types of joints shall be prohibited:

4.2. Mastic or hot-pour bituminous joints.
4.3. Joints made with fittings not approved for the specific installation.
4.4. Joints between different diameter pipes made with elasto-meric rolling O-rings.
4.5. Solvent-cement joints between different types of plastic pipe.
4.6. Saddle-type fittings.

5. The following type of traps are prohibited:

5.1. Traps that depend on moving parts to maintain the seal.
5.2. Bell traps
5.3. Crown-vented traps
5.4. Traps not integral with a fixture and that depend on interior partitions for the seal, except those traps constructed of an approved material that is resistant to corrosion and degradation.

Section 611 
Energy Conservation

611.1 Minimum requirements.  Alterations subject to this Chapter shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 13 of the Florida Building Code.

CHAPTER 7
ALTERATIONS - LEVEL 3

SECTION 701
GENERAL

701.1 Scope. Alterations classified as Level 3 alterations as described in Section 305 shall comply with
the requirements of this Chapter.  

701.2 Compliance. In addition to the provisions of this chapter work shall comply with all the requirements of Chapters 5 and 6. The requirements of Sections 603, 604, and 605 shall apply within all work areas regardless of whether or not they include exits and corridors shared by more than one tenant and regardless of the occupant load.

Exceptions:

Buildings in which the reconfiguration of space
affecting exits or shared egress access is
exclusively the result of compliance with the
accessibility requirements of Section 506.2 shall
not be required to comply with this Chapter.

SECTION 702
SPECIAL OCCUPANCY

702.1 High rise buildings Any building having occupied floors more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall comply with the requirements of Sections 702.1.1 through 702.1.2.

702.1.1 Re-circulating air or exhaust systems.
When a floor is served by a re-circulating air or
exhaust system with a capacity greater than 15,000
cfm (701 m3/s), that system shall be equipped with
approved smoke and heat detection devices installed
in accordance with the Florida Mechanical Code.

702.1.2 Elevators. Where there is an elevator or
elevators for use by the public, at least one elevator
serving the work area shall comply with the Florida Fire Prevention Code.  All elevator lobbies shall comply with 412.6 of the Florida Building Code.

Exception: An approved engineering system in accordance with ASME 17.1 or s.103.7 of the Florida Building Code shall be acceptable as an alternative compliance with this section.

702.2 Boiler and Furnace equipment rooms Boiler
and furnace equipment rooms adjacent to or within the following facilities shall be enclosed by one-hour fire rated construction: day nurseries, children's shelter facilities, residential child care facilities and similar facilities with children below the age of 2-½ years, or which are classified as Group I Unrestrained Occupancy, shelter facilities, residences for the developmentally disabled, group homes, teaching family homes, transitional living homes, rooming and boarding houses, hotels and multiple dwellings.

Exceptions:

1. Furnace and boiler equipment of low pressure
type, operating at pressures of 15 psig (103.4
KPa) or less for steam equipment or 170 psig
(1171 KPa) or less for hot water equipment, when
installed in accordance with manufacturer
recommendations.

2. Furnace and boiler equipment of residential R-3
type with 200,000 BTU (211,000 KJ) per hour
input rating or less is not required to be enclosed.

3. Furnace rooms protected with automatic sprinkler
protection.

702.2.1 Emergency controls. Emergency controls
for boilers and furnace equipment shall be provided
in accordance with the Florida Mechanical Code in all buildings classified as day nurseries, children's shelter facilities, residential child care facilities and similar facilities with children below the age of 2-½ years, or which are classified as Group I Unrestrained Occupancy, and in group homes, teaching family homes, and supervised transitional living homes in accordance with the following:

1. Emergency shutoff switches for furnaces and
boilers in basements shall be located at the top of
the stairs leading to the basement; and

2. Emergency shutoff switches for furnaces and
boilers in other enclosed rooms shall be located
outside of such room.

SECTION 703
BUILDING ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS

703.1 Existing shafts and vertical openings. Existing stairways that are part of the means of egress shall comply with the appropriate sections of the Florida Fire Prevention Code.

703. 2 Fire partitions. Fire separation in all Occupancies shall be in accordance with Section 703.2.1.

703.2.1 Separation required. Walls separating units which are not continuous from the foundation to the underside of the roof sheathing shall be constructed to provide a continuous fire separation using construction materials consistent with the existing wall or complying with the requirements for new structures. All work shall be performed on the side of the wall of the dwelling unit that is part of the work area.

Exception: Where alterations or repairs do not result in the removal of wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, walls are not required to be continuous through concealed floor spaces.

703.3 Interior finish. Interior finish in exits serving the
work area shall comply with Section 603.4 between the highest floor on which there is a work area to the floor of exit discharge.

SECTION 704
FIRE PROTECTION

704.1 Automatic sprinkler systems. Automatic
sprinkler systems shall be provided in all work areas in accordance with the Florida Building Code. 

704.1.1 High rise buildings. In high rise buildings,
work areas shall be provided with automatic sprinkler
protection where the building has a sufficient
municipal water supply system to the site. Where the
work area exceeds 50 percent of floor area,
sprinklers shall be provided in the entire floor.

704.1.2 Rubbish and linen chutes. Rubbish and
linen chutes located in the work area shall be provided
with sprinklered protection where protection of the
rubbish and linen chute would be required under the
provisions of the Florida Building Code for new construction.

704.2 Fire alarm and detection. Fire alarm and
detection systems shall comply with the appropriate sections of the Florida Fire Prevention Code.

SECTION 705
MEANS OF EGRESS

705.1 General. The means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Section 605 as modified in Sections 705.2 and 705.3.

705. 2 Means of egress lighting. Means of egress from the highest work area floor to the floor of exit discharge shall be provided with artificial lighting within the exit enclosure in accordance with the requirements of the Florida Building Code.

705.3 Exit signs. Means of egress from the highest
work area floor to the floor of exit discharge shall be
provided with exit signs in accordance with the
requirements of the Florida Building Code.

SECTION 706
ACCESSIBILITY

706.1 General. A building, facility or element that is
altered shall comply with Chapter 11 of the Florida Building Code.

SECTION 707
STRUCTURAL

707.1 General. Where buildings are undergoing Level 3 Alterations including structural alterations, the provisions of this section shall apply.

707.2 Reduction of strength. Alterations shall not
reduce the structural strength or stability of the building, structure or any individual member thereof.

Exception: Such reduction shall be allowed provided
that the structural strength and the stability of the
building are not reduced to below the Florida Building Code levels.

707.3 New structural members. New structural
members in alterations, including connections and
anchorage, shall comply with the Florida Building
Code.

707.4 Minimum design loads. The minimum design
loads on existing elements of a structure that do not support additional loads as a result of an alteration shall be the loads applicable at the time the building was constructed.

707.5 Structural alterations. Buildings and structures
undergoing structural alterations shall comply with this
section.

707.5.1 Evaluation and analysis. An engineering
evaluation and analysis which establishes the
structural adequacy of the altered structure shall be
prepared by a registered architect or engineer and submitted to the building code official.   Where more than 30 percent, within a 12 months period, of the total sum of floor and roof areas of the building or structure have been or are proposed to be involved in structural alteration.  The evaluation and analysis shall demonstrate that the altered building or the structure complies with the Florida Building Code for wind loading. 

Exceptions:

1. Buildings of Group R Occupancy with no more
than 5 dwelling units or guest rooms used solely for residential purposes altered based on the Conventional Light-Frame Construction methods as defined in Chapter 2. 

2. Where such alterations involve only the lowest
story of a building and Change of Occupancy
Provisions of Chapter 8 do not apply, only the
lateral force resisting components in and below that story need comply with this Section.

707.5.2 Limited structural alteration. Where not more than 30% of the total floor and roof areas of the building are involved in structural alteration within a 12 month period, the evaluation and analysis, shall demonstrate that the altered building or structure complies with the loads applicable at the time the building was constructed.

707.6 Additional loads. Where gravity loading
is increased on the roof or floor of a building or structure, all structural members affected by such increase in loading shall meet the gravity load requirements of Florida Building Code.

Exceptions:

1. Structural elements whose stress is not increased
by more than 5 percent.

2. Buildings of Group R Occupancy with no more
than 5 dwelling units or guest rooms used solely
for residential purposes altered based on the
Conventional Light-Frame Construction methods as defined in Chapter 2.

707.7 Voluntary lateral force resisting system
alterations. Alterations of existing structural elements
that are initiated for the purpose of increasing the lateral force-resisting strength or stiffness of an existing structure, and are not required by other sections of this code, shall not be required to be designed for forces conforming to the Florida Building Code provided that an engineering analysis is submitted to show that :

1. The capacity of existing structural elements required to resist forces is not reduced.

2. The lateral loading to existing structural elements is
not increased beyond their capacity.

3. New structural elements are detailed and connected to the existing structural elements as required by the Florida Building Code.

4. New or relocated non-structural elements are detailed and connected to existing or new structural elements as required by the Florida Building Code and

5. A dangerous condition as defined in this code is not
created.

Voluntary alterations to lateral force resisting systems
conducted in accordance with this Code and the
referenced standards of this code shall be permitted.  

Section 708 
Energy Conservation

708.1 Minimum requirements.  Alterations subject to this chapter shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 13 of the Florida Building Code.

CHAPTER 8
CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY

SECTION 801
GENERAL

801.1 Repair and alteration with no change of
occupancy classification. Any repair or alteration
work undertaken in connection with a change of
sub-occupancy that does not involve a change of occupancy classification as described in the Florida Building Code shall conform to the applicable requirements for the work as classified in Chapter 3 and the requirements of Sections 802 through 811.

Exceptions:

1. Compliance with all the provisions of Chapter 7 is
not required where the change of occupancy
classification complies with the requirements of
Section 812.3.

2. As modified in Section 1004.0 for historic
buildings.

3. As permitted in Chapter 12.

801.2 Part change of occupancy group. Where a
portion of an existing building is changed to a new
occupancy group, Section 812 shall apply.

801.3 Certificate of occupancy required. A certificate of occupancy shall be issued where a change of occupancy occurs which results in being classified in a different occupancy classification as determined by the Florida Building Code. 

SECTION 802
SPECIAL OCCUPANCY

802.1 Compliance with the building code. Where the character of use of an existing building or part of an existing building is changed to one of the following
special occupancy categories, as defined in Chapter 4 of the Florida Building Code, the building shall comply with all the applicable requirements of the Florida Building Code:

1.Covered mall buildings,

2. Atriums,

3. Motor vehicle related occupancies

4. Aircraft related occupancies,

5. Motion picture projection rooms,

6. Stages and platforms,

7. Special amusement buildings,

8. Incidental use areas,

9. Hazardous materials.

802.2 Underground buildings. An underground
building in which there is a change of use shall comply
with the requirements of the Florida Building Code applicable to underground structures.

SECTION 803
BUILDING ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS

803.1 General. Building elements and materials in
portions of buildings undergoing a change of occupancy classification shall comply with Section 812.

SECTION 804
FIRE PROTECTION

804.1 General. Fire protection requirements of Section 812 shall apply where a building or portions thereof undergoes a change of occupancy classification.

SECTION 805
EGRESS

805.1 General. Means of egress in portions of buildings undergoing a change of occupancy classification shall comply with Section 812.

SECTION 806
ACCESSIBILITY

806.1 General. Accessibility in portions of buildings
undergoing a change of occupancy classification shall
comply with Chapter 11 of the Florida Building Code.

SECTION 807
STRUCTURAL

807.1 Gravity loads. Buildings or portions thereof
subject to a change of occupancy where such change in the nature of occupancy results in higher uniform or
concentrated loads based on Florida Building Code Tables 16047.1 and 1604.3, (HVHZ shall comply with Table 1614.2) shall comply with the gravity load provisions of the Florida Building Code.

Exceptions: Structural elements whose force stress
is not increased by more than 5 percent.

807.2 Wind loads. Buildings and structures
subject to a change of occupancy where such change in the nature of occupancy results in higher wind  importance factors based on Florida Building Code Table 1606, (HVHZ shall comply with Table 1614.2) shall be analyzed and shall comply with the applicable wind load provisions of the Florida Building Code.

Exception : Where the new occupancy with higher
importance factor is less than or equal to 10% of the
total building floor area. The cumulative effect of the
area of occupancy changes shall be considered for
the purposes of this exception.

SECTION 808
ELECTRICAL

808.1 Special occupancies. Where the occupancy of
an existing building or part of an existing building is
changed to one of the following special occupancies as described in Chapter 27 of the Florida Building Code, the electrical wiring and equipment of the building or portion thereof that contains the proposed occupancy shall comply with an applicable requirements of the Florida Building Code regardless of whether a change of occupancy group is involved:

1. hazardous locations,

2. commercial garages, repair and storage,

3. aircraft hangars,

4. gasoline dispensing and service stations,

5. bulk storage plants,

6. spray application, dipping and coating processes,

7. health care facilities,

8. places of assembly,

9. theaters, audience areas of motion picture and
television studios and similar locations,

10.motion picture and television studios and similar
locations,

11.motion picture projectors, and

808.2 Unsafe conditions. Where the occupancy of an existing building or part of an existing building is
changed all unsafe conditions shall be corrected, without requiring that all parts of the electrical system be brought up to the current edition of Chapter 27 of the Florida Building Code.

808.3 Service upgrade. Where the occupancy of an
existing building or part of an existing building is
changed, the electrical service shall be upgraded to meet the requirements of Chapter 27 of the Florida Building Code for the new occupancy.

808.4 Number of electrical outlets. Where the
occupancy of an existing building or part of an existing
building is changed the number of electrical outlets shall comply with Chapter 27 of the Florida Building Code for the new occupancy.

SECTION 809
MECHANICAL

809.1 Mechanical requirements. Where the
occupancy of an existing building or part of an existing
building is changed such that the new occupancy is
subject to different kitchen exhaust requirements or to
increased mechanical ventilation requirements in
accordance with the Florida Mechanical Code, the intent of the respective Florida Mechanical Code provisions shall be complied with.

SECTION 810
PLUMBING

810.1 Increased demand. Where the occupancy of an existing building or part of an existing building is
changed such that the new occupancy is subject to
increased or different plumbing fixture requirements or
to increased water supply requirements in accordance
with the Florida Plumbing Code, the intent of the respective Florida Plumbing Code provisions shall be complied with.

810.3 Interceptor required. If the new occupancy will
produce grease or oil laden wastes, interceptors shall be provided as required in the Florida Plumbing Code.

810.4 Chemical wastes. If the new occupancy will
produce chemical wastes, the following shall apply:

1. If the existing piping is not compatible with the
chemical waste, the waste shall be neutralized prior
to entering the drainage system or the piping shall be
changed to a compatible material.

2. No chemical waste shall discharge to a public sewer
system without the approval of the sewage authority.

810.5 Group I Unrestrained. If the occupancy group is changed to Group I Unrestrained, the plumbing system shall comply with the applicable requirements of the Florida Plumbing Code.

SECTION 811
OTHER REQUIREMENTS

811.1 Health and hygiene
811.1.1 Light and ventilation. Light and ventilation
shall comply with the requirements of the Florida Building Code for the new occupancy

SECTION 812
CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION

812.1 Compliance with Chapter 7. The occupancy
classification of an existing building may be changed,
provided the building meets all the requirements of
Chapter 7 applied throughout the building for the new
occupancy group, and complies with the requirements of Sections 802 through 812.

812.1.1 Change of occupancy group without
separation. Where a portion of an existing building
is changed to a new occupancy group, and that
portion is not separated from the remainder of the
building with fire rated wall/ceiling having a fire resistance rating as required in the Florida Building Code for the separate occupancy, the entire building shall comply with all of the requirements of Chapter 7 applied throughout the building for the most restrictive Use Group in the building and with the requirements of this Chapter.

Exception: Compliance with all the provisions of
Chapter 7 is not required when the change of
occupancy group complies with the requirements
of Section 812.3.

812.1.2 Change of occupancy group with
separation. A portion of an existing building that
is changed to a new occupancy group, and is
separated from the remainder of the building with
fire rated wall/ceiling having a fire resistance rating as
required in the Florida Building Code for the
separate occupancy shall comply with all the
requirements of Chapter 7 for the new occupancy
group, and with the requirements of this Chapter.

Exception: Compliance with all the
provisions of Chapter 7 is not required when
the change of use complies with the
requirements of Section 812.3.

812.2 Hazard category classifications. The relative
degree of hazard between different occupancy groups
shall be as set forth in the hazard category classifications, Tables 812.4.1, 812.4.3 and 812.4.4 of Sections 812.4.1, 812.4.3 and 812.4.4.

812.2.1 Change of occupancy classification to an
equal or lesser hazard. An existing building or
portion thereof may have its use changed to a
occupancy group within the same hazard classification category or to a occupancy group in a lesser hazard classification category (higher number) in all four hazard category classifications, provided it complies with the provisions of Chapter 7 for the new occupancy group, applied throughout the building, or portion thereof.

Exception: Compliance with all the provisions of
Chapter 7 is not required where the change of
occupancy group complies with the requirements
of Section 812.3.

812.2.2 Change of occupancy classification to a
higher hazard. An existing building shall comply
with all the applicable requirements of this Chapter
when a change in occupancy group will place it in a
higher hazard category or when the occupancy group
is changed within Group H.

812.2.3 Change of occupancy classification to a
higher hazard in all three hazard classifications.
An existing building may have its use changed to a
higher hazard rating (lower number) in all three
hazard category classifications designated in Tables 812.4.1, 812.4.3 and 812.4.4 provided it complies with this Chapter or with Chapter 12.

812.3 Change of occupancy classification to an
equal or lesser hazard in all three hazard
classifications. A change of use to an occupancy
group within the same hazard classification category or to an occupancy group in a lesser hazard classification category (higher number) in the three hazard category classifications addressed by Tables 812.4.1, 812.4.3 and 812.4.4 shall be permitted in an existing building or portion thereof provided the provisions of Sections 812.3.1 through 812.3.5 are met.

812.3.1 Minimum requirements. Regardless of the
occupancy group involved, the following
requirements shall be met:

1. The capacity of the means of egress shall comply
with Florida Building Code.

2. The interior finish of walls and ceilings shall comply with the requirements of the Florida Building Code for the new occupancy group.

3.  Compliance with the Florida Fire Prevention Code.

812.3.2 Groups I Restrained, R1, R2, or R4. Where the new use is classified as Group I Restrained, R1 or R2, or R4 Occupancy the following requirements shall be met.

1. Corridor doors and transoms shall comply with the
requirements of Sections 605.5.1 and 605.5.2.

2. Automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with the
requirements of Section 604.2.

3. Fire alarm and detection systems shall comply
with the requirements of Section 604.4.

812.3.3 Group I Unrestrained. Where the new use is classified as Group I Unrestrained Occupancy, the following requirements shall be met:

1. Egress doorways from patient sleeping rooms
shall and suites of rooms shall comply with the
requirements of Section 605.4.1.2.

2. Shaft enclosures shall comply with the
requirements of Section 703.1.

3. Smoke barriers shall comply with the requirements of Section 603.3.

4. Automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with the
requirements of Section 604.2.

5. Fire alarm and detection systems shall comply
with the requirements of Section 604.4.

812.3.5 Group R3. Where the new use is classified
as Group R3 Occupancy, the following requirements
shall be met:

1. Dwelling unit separation shall comply with the
requirements of Section 703.2.1.

2. The smoke alarm requirements of Section 604.4.3
shall be met.

812.4 Fire and life safety
812.4.1 Means of Egress, General. Hazard
categories in regard to life safety and means of
egress shall be in accordance with Table 812.4.1.

TABLE 812.4.1
HAZARD CATEGORIES AND CLASSIFICATIONS:
LIFE SAFETY AND EXITS
RELATIVE HAZARD	OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION	
1 (Highest Hazard)	H	
2	A	
3	A, E, I Restrained, M, R1, R2, R4, D	
4	B, F, R3, S1	
5 (lowest hazard)	S2	

812.4.1.1 Means of egress for change to higher
hazard category. When a change of occupancy
group is made to a higher hazard category (lower
number) as shown in Table 812.4.1, the means of
egress shall comply with the requirements of
Chapter 10 of the Florida Building Code.

Exceptions:

1. Stairways shall be enclosed in compliance
with applicable provisions of Section 703.1.

2. Existing stairways including handrails and
guards complying with the requirements of
Chapter 7 shall be permitted for continued
use subject to approval of the code official.

3. Any stairway replacing an existing stairway
within a space where, because of existing
construction, the pitch or slope cannot be
reduced, shall be permitted for continued use subject to approval of the building code official. 

4. Where an existing corridor is required to be fire rated, equivalency can be achieved by either sprinklering the building or using equivalency as per NFPA 914 or Chapter 7 of the Florida Building Code for fire resistance. 

5. Existing corridor doorways, transoms and
other corridor openings shall comply with the requirements in Sections 605.5.1, 605.5.2 and 605.5.3.

6. Existing dead end corridors shall comply
with the requirements in Section 605.6.

7.  Where emergency escape and rescue opening are required, an existing operable window with clear opening area no less than 4 square feet (0.38 m2), and with minimum opening height and width of 22 inches (559 mm) and 20 inches (508 mm) respectively, with maximum sill height at 44 inches above floor or approved permanent elevated area, shall be accepted as an emergency escape and rescue opening.

812.4.1.2 Means of egress when change of use
to equal or lower hazard category. When a
change of occupancy group is made to an equal
or lesser hazard category as shown in Table
812.4.1, existing elements of the means of egress
shall comply with the requirements of Section 705
for the new occupancy group. Newly constructed
or configured means of egress shall comply with
the requirements of Chapter 10 of the Florida Building Code.

Exceptions:

1. Any stairway replacing an existing stairway
within a space where, because of existing
construction, the pitch or slope cannot be
reduced, shall be permitted for continued use subject to approval of the building code official. Also, see Section 1001.2 of the Florida Building Code. 

812.4.1.3 Egress capacity. Egress capacity
shall meet or exceed the occupant load as
specified in the Florida Building Code if the
change of Occupancy Classification is to an equal
or lesser hazard category when evaluated in
accordance with Table 812.4.1.

812.4.1.4 Handrails. Existing stairways shall
comply with the handrail requirements in Section
605.9 in the area of the change of occupancy
Classification.	

812.4.1.5 Guards. Existing guards shall comply
with the guardrail requirements in Section 605.10
within the area of the change of occupancy
classification.

812.4.23 Heights and areas. Hazard categories in
regard to height and area shall be in accordance with
Table 812.4.2.

TABLE 812.4.3
HAZARD CATEGORIES AND CLASSIFICATIONS:
HEIGHTS AND AREAS
RELATIVE HAZARD	OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATIONS	
1 (Highest Hazard)	H	
2	A1, A2, I, R1, R2, R4	
3	E, F, S1, M, D	
4(Lowest Hazard)	B, S2, R3	

812.4.3.1 Height and area for change to higher
hazard category. When a change of occupancy
group is made to a higher hazard category as
shown in Table 812.4.3, heights and areas of
buildings and structures shall comply with the
requirements of Chapter 5 of the Florida 
Building Code for the new occupancy group.

Exception: A 1-story building changed into
Group E shall not be required to meet the area
limitations of the Florida Building Code.

812.4.3.2 Height and area for change to equal
or lesser hazard category. When a change of
use is made to an equal or lesser hazard category
as shown in Table 812.4.3, the height and area of
the existing building shall be deemed to be
acceptable.

812.4.3.3 Fire rated wall/ceiling. When a change of occupancy group is made to a higher hazard category as shown in Table 812.4.3, fire rated wall/ceiling in separated mixed use buildings shall comply with the fire resistance requirements in the Florida Building Code.

Exception: Where the fire rated wall/ceiling are required to have a one-hour fire resistance rating, equivalency can be achieved by either sprinklering the building or using equivalency as per NFPA 914 or Chapter 7 of the Florida Building Code for fire resistance.  

812.4.4 Exterior wall fire resistance ratings.
Hazard categories in regard to fire resistance ratings
of exterior walls shall be in accordance with Table
812.4.4.

TABLE 812.4.4
HAZARD CATEGORIES AND CLASSIFICATIONS:
EXPOSURE OF EXTERIOR WALLS
RELATIVE HAZARD	OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION	
1 (Highest Hazard)	H	
2	F, M, S1	
3	A, B, E, I, R, D	
4 (Lowest Hazard)	S2	

812.4.4.1 Exterior wall rating for change of
occupancy classification to a higher hazard
category. Where a change of occupancy group
is made to a higher hazard category as shown in
Table 812.4.4, exterior walls shall have fire
resistance and exterior opening protectives as
required by the Florida Building Code. This
provision shall not apply to walls at right angles to
the property line.

Exception: A two hour fire resistance rating
shall be allowed where the building does not
exceed three stories in height and is classified
as one of the following Groups: A-2 with an occupant load of less than 300, B, F, M, or S.

812.4.4.2 Exterior wall rating for change of
occupancy classification to an equal or lesser
hazard category. When a change of occupancy
group is made to an equal or lesser hazard
category as shown in Table 812.4.4, existing
exterior walls, including openings, shall be
accepted.

812.4.4.3 Opening protectives. Openings in
exterior walls shall be protected as required by the
Florida Building Code. When openings in the exterior walls are required to be protected due to
distance from the property line, the sum of the
area of such openings shall not exceed 50
percent of the total area of the wall in each story.

Exceptions:

1. Where the Florida Building Code permits openings in excess of 50 percent.

2. Protected openings shall not be required in
buildings of occupancy group R which do
not exceed three stories in height and
which are located not less than 3 feet (914
mm) from the property line.

3. Where exterior opening protectives are
required, an automatic sprinkler system
throughout may be substituted for opening
protection.

4. Exterior opening protectives are not
required when the change of occupancy
group is to an equal or lower hazard
classification in accordance with Table
812.4.4.

812.5 Accessibility. Existing buildings or portions
thereof that undergo a change of occupancy
classification shall comply with Chapter 11 of the Florida Building Code.

812.6 Enclosure of vertical shafts. Enclosure of
vertical shafts shall be in accordance with Section
802.4.2.1 through 802.4.2.4.

812.6.1 Minimum requirements. Vertical shafts shall be designed to meet the Florida Building Code requirements for atriums or the requirements of this Section.

812.6.2 Stairways. When a change of
occupancy group is made to a higher hazard
category as shown in Table 812.4.1, interior
stairways shall be enclosed as required by the
Florida Building Code.

Exceptions:

1. In other than Group I Occupancy, an
enclosure shall not be required for
openings serving only one adjacent floor
and not connected with corridors or
stairways serving other floors.

2. Unenclosed existing stairways need not be
enclosed in a continuous vertical shaft if
each story is separated from other stories
by one-hour fire-resistive construction or
approved wired glass set in steel frames
and all exit corridors are sprinklered. An
opening between the corridor and
occupant space shall have at least one
sprinkler head above the openings of the
tenant side. The sprinkler system shall be
permitted to be supplied from the domestic
water-supply systems, provided the system
is of adequate pressure, capacity and
sizing for the combined domestic and
sprinkler requirements.

3. Existing penetrations of stairway
enclosures shall be accepted if they are
protected in accordance with the Florida
Building Code.

812.6.3 Other vertical shafts. Interior vertical
shafts other than stairways, including but not
limited to elevator hoistways and service and
utility shafts, shall be enclosed as required by the
Florida Building Code when there is a change of use to a higher hazard category in Table 812.4.1.

Exceptions:

1. Existing one-hour interior shaft enclosures
shall be accepted where a higher rating is
required.

2. Vertical openings, other than stairways, in
buildings other than Group I Occupancy shall comply with the appropriate sections of the Florida Fire Prevention Code. 

812.6.4 Openings. All openings into existing
vertical shaft enclosures shall be protected by fire
assemblies having a fire-protection rating of not
less than one hour and shall be maintained self closing or shall be automatic closing by actuation
of a smoke detector. All other openings shall be
fire protected in an approved manner. Existing
fusible link-type automatic door-closing devices
shall be permitted in all shafts except stairways if
the fusible link rating does not exceed 135oF.
(57oC.).

CHAPTER 9
ADDITIONS

SECTION 901
GENERAL

901.1 Scope. An addition to a building or structure shall comply with the building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical codes, without requiring the existing building or structure to comply with any requirements of those codes or of these provisions.

Exception: In flood hazard areas, the existing
building is subject to the requirements of Section
903.5 of this Chapter.

901.2 Creation or extension of nonconformity. An addition shall not create or extend any non-conformity in the existing building to which the addition is constructed with regard to accessibility, structural strength, fire safety, means of egress, or the capacity of mechanical, plumbing or electrical systems.

901.3 Other work. Any repair or alteration work within
an existing building to which an addition is being made shall comply with the requirements of the appropriate chapter of this code for the level of rehabilitation undertaken.

SECTION 902
HEIGHTS AND AREAS

902.1 Height limitations. No addition shall increase the height of an existing building beyond that permitted under the applicable provisions of Chapter 5 of the Florida Building Code for new buildings.

902.2 Area limitations. No addition shall increase the
area of an existing building beyond that permitted under the applicable provisions of Chapter 5 of the Florida Building Code for new buildings unless fire separation as required in the Florida Building Code is provided.

Exceptions:

Infilling of floor openings, non-occupiable
appendages such as elevator and exit stair
shafts shall be permitted beyond that permitted by the Florida Building Code.

902.3 Fire protection systems. Existing allowable areas increased by the addition shall comply with Chapter 9 of the Florida Building Code.

SECTION 903
STRUCTURAL

903.1 Compliance with Florida Building Code.  Additions to existing buildings or structures are new construction and shall comply with the Florida Building Code.

903.2 Additional gravity loads. Existing structural
elements supporting any additional gravity loads as a
result of additions shall comply with the Florida Building Code.

Exceptions :

1. Structural elements whose stress is not
increased by more than 5 percent.

2. Buildings of Group R Occupancy with no more
than 5 dwelling units or guestrooms used solely for residential purposes where the existing building and the addition comply with the Conventional Light-Frame Construction methods as defined in Chapter 2. 

903.3 Lateral force resisting system. The lateral force resisting system of existing buildings to which additions are made shall comply with Sections 903.3.1, 903.3.2 and 903.3.3.

Exceptions:

1. In Type V construction, Group R Occupancies
where the lateral force story shear in any story is
not increased by more than 10 percent.

2. Buildings of Group R Occupancy with no more
than 5 dwelling units or guestrooms used solely
for residential purposes where the existing
building and the addition comply with the
Conventional Light-Frame Construction methods as defined in Chapter 2.

3. Additions where the lateral force story shear in
any story is not increased by more than 5 percent.

903.3.1 Vertical addition. Any element of the Lateral
Force Resisting System of an existing building
subjected to an increase in vertical or lateral loads
from the vertical addition shall comply with the lateral
load provisions of the Florida Building Code.

903.3.2 Horizontal addition. Where horizontal
additions are structurally connected to an existing
structure all lateral force resisting elements of the
existing structure affected by such addition shall
comply with the lateral load provisions of the
Florida Building Code. Lateral loads imposed on the elements of the existing structure and the addition shall be determined by a relative stiffness analysis of the combined structure including torsional effects.

903.3.3 Voluntary addition of structural elements
to improve lateral force resisting system.
Voluntary addition of structural elements to improve
the lateral force resisting system of a building shall
comply with Section 707.7.

903.5 Flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas:

1. For horizontal additions that are structurally
interconnected to the existing building:

1.1. If the addition and all other proposed work,
when combined, constitute substantial improvement, the existing building and the addition shall comply with Florida Building Code Section 1609 (HVHZ shall comply with Section 1617.9) and Chapter 31.

1.2. If the addition constitutes substantial improvement, the existing building and the addition shall comply with Florida Building Code Section 1609 (HVHZ shall comply with Section 1617.9) and Chapter 31.

2. For horizontal additions that are not structurally
interconnected to the existing building:

2.1. The addition shall comply with Florida Building Code Section 1609 (HVHZ shall comply with Section 1617.9) and Chapter 31.

2.2. If the addition and all other proposed work,
when combined, constitute substantial improvement, the existing building and the addition shall comply with Florida Building Code Section 1609 (HVHZ shall comply with Section 1617.9)  and Chapter 31.

3. For vertical additions and all other proposed work,
when combined, that constitute substantial
improvement, the existing building shall comply
with Florida Building Code Section 1609 (HVHZ shall comply with Section 1617.9) and Chapter 31.

4. For a new, replacement, raised or extended
foundation, if the foundation work and all other
proposed work, when combined, constitute
substantial improvement, the existing building
shall comply with Florida Building Code Section 1609 and Chapter 31.

SECTION 904
SMOKE ALARMS IN USE GROUPS R3 AND R4

904.1 Smoke alarms in addition. Whenever an addition is made to a building or structure of Use Group R3 or R 4, hardwired, interconnected smoke alarms meeting the requirements of the Florida Building Code shall be installed and maintained in the addition.

904.2 Smoke alarms in existing portions of building.
Whenever an addition is made to a building or structure of Use Group R3 or R4, the existing building shall be provided with smoke alarms as required by the Florida Building Code as applicable. The smoke alarms in the existing building are not required to be interconnected with smoke alarms in other portions of the base building.

SECTION 905
ACCESSIBILITY

905.1 Minimum requirements. Accessibility provisions for new construction shall apply to additions. An addition that affects the accessibility to, or contains an area of primary function, shall comply with the requirements in Chapter 11 of the Florida Building Code .

SECTION 906
ENERGY CONSERVATION

906.1 Minimum requirements. Additions to existing
buildings or structures shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 13 of the Florida Building Code .

CHAPTER 10
HISTORIC BUILDINGS

SECTION 1001
GENERAL

1001.1 Intent and purpose.  It is the intent of this chapter to provide means for occupant safety, property conservation and use of designated historic buildings while protecting those elements, spaces, and features that make these buildings historically or architecturally significant.

1001.2 Scope. The provisions of this code acknowledge the need to preserve the character of historic buildings and shall apply to the repair, alteration, restoration, change of occupancy, addition and relocation of historic buildings.

Section 1002
 Definitions

Historic building.  For the purposes of this code and the referenced documents, a historic building is defined as a building or structure that is:

1. Individually listed in the National Register of Historic Places; or

2. A contributing property in a National Register of Historic Places listed district; or 

3. Designated as historic property under an official municipal, county, special district or state designation, law, ordinance or resolution either individually or as a contributing property in a district; or

4. Determined eligible by the Florida State Historic Preservation Officer for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, either individually or as a contributing property in a district.

For accessibility requirements, see the Florida Building Code Chapter 11, Section 11-4.1.7 Accessible Buildings: Historic Preservation.

Adaptive reuse.  The conversion of functional change of a building from the purpose or use for which it was originally constructed or designed.

Adaptive use.  A use for a building other than that for which it was originally designed or intended.

Historic character.  The essential quality of a historic building or space that provides its significance.  The character might be determine by the historic background, including association with a significant event or person, the architecture of design, or the contents or elements and finishes of the building or space.

Historic fabric.  Original or added building or construction materials, features, and finishes that existed during the period that is deemed to be most architecturally or historically significant or both.

Historic preservation.  A generic term that encompasses all aspects of the professional and public concern related to the maintenance of a historic structure, site, or element in its current condition, as originally constructed, or with the additions and alterations determined to have acquired significance over time.

Historic site.  A place, often with associated structures, having historic significance.

Historic structure.  A building, bridge, lighthouse, monument, pier, vessel, or other construction that is designated or that is deemed eligible for such designation by a local, regional, or national jurisdiction as having historical, architectural, or cultural significance.

Preservation.  The act or process of applying measure necessary to sustain the existing form, integrity, and materials of a historic building or structure.

Rehabilitation, historic building.  The act or process of making possible a compatible use of a property through repair, alterations, and additions while preserving those portions or features which convey its historical, cultural, or architectural values.

Restoration.  The act or process of accurately depicting the form, features, and character of a property as it appeared at a particular period of time by means of the removal of features, and repair or replacement of damaged or altered features from the restoration period.

Section 1003 
Goal and Objectives

1003.1  Historic preservation goal.  The historic preservation goal of this code shall be to minimize damage to and loss of historic structures, their unique characteristics, and their contents as follows:

1. Maintain and preserve original space configurations of historic buildings.

2. Minimize alteration, destruction, or loss of historic fabric or design

1003.2  Historic preservation objectives.  

1. The original qualities or character of a building, structure, site, or environment shall be encouraged.

2. Removal or alteration of any historic material or distinctive architectural features shall be minimized.

3. Distinctive stylistic features or examples of skilled craftsmanship that characterize a building, structure or site shall be treated with sensitivity.

4. A compatible use for a property that requires minimal alteration of the building, structure, or site and its environment shall be encouraged.

5.  New additions or alterations shall be designed and constructed in such a manner that if such additions or alterations were to be removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the structure would be to the greatest degree possible, unimpaired.

6.  Repairs, alterations, restorations, changes of occupancy, additions and relocations shall be guided by the recommended approaches in rehabilitation set forth in the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings (Appendix D of the FBC).

Section 1004 
Equivalency

1004. Equivalency.  Nothing in this code shall be intended to prevent the use of systems, methods, or devices of equivalent or superior quality, strength, fire resistance, or effectiveness, provided that the following conditions are met:

1. Technical documentation is submitted to the building official to document equivalency.

2. The system, method, or device is acceptable to the building official.

Section 1005 
Compliance

1005.1 Strict Compliance.  Historic structures or portions of such structures that do not strictly comply with this code shall be considered to be in compliance if it can be shown to the satisfaction of the building code official that equivalent protection has been provided or that no hazard will be created or continued through non-compliance.

1005.2 Compliance option.  Life safety and property conservation shall be provided in accordance with one of the following options:

1. Prescriptive based provisions of this code.

2. Compliance alternative based provisions of this code.

3. Performance based provisions of the National Fire Protection Association 914 Code for Fire Protection of Historic Structures, Chapter 6, latest edition along with a structural evaluation as specified in section 1201.4.1 of this code.

1005.3 Conditions specific to compliance options 2 and 3. 

1. Architect or engineer required.  The evaluation of historic structures utilizing compliance options 2 or 3 shall be completed by a Florida Registered architect or engineer and submitted to the building code official for review.

2. Documentation.  Historic buildings that are determined to be code compliant through the use of compliance option 2 or 3 shall have copies of the architect or engineer’s report kept on site and available for review by the building official.

3. Change of report assumptions.  Any remodeling, modification, renovation, change of use, or change in the established assumptions of the report shall require a re-evaluation and re-approval by the building code official.

4. Construction safeguards.  Construction safeguards consistent with Chapter 13 of the Florida Building Code, latest edition, and the National Fire Protection Association 914 Code for Fire Protection of Historic Structures, latest edition, shall be maintained during periods of repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition and relation of historic buildings.

5. Maintenance.  In addition to the requirements of section 1004, historic buildings shall be maintained in accordance with chapters 1, 2, 8, 9, 10 and 11 of the National Fire Protection Association 914 Code for Fire Protection of Historic Structures, latest edition.

Section 1006 
Investigation and Evaluation

1006.  Investigation and Evaluation Report. A historic building undergoing repair, alteration, or change of occupancy shall be investigated and evaluated. If it is intended that the building meet the requirements of this chapter, a written report shall be prepared and filed with the building official by a Florida registered architect or engineer. Such report shall be in accordance with the provisions of Sections 4.3.1.2 through 4.3.2 National Fire Protection Association 914 Code for Fire Protection of Historic Structures, latest edition, and shall identify each required safety feature in compliance with this chapter and where compliance with this or other chapters  would be damaging to the contributing historic features. In addition, the report shall describe each feature not in compliance and demonstrate how the intent of the provisions of this or other chapters are complied with in providing an equivalent level of safety.

Appendices

Appendix C.  Survey Criteria for a Historic Structure.
Appendix H.  Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings (Appendix D, Florida Building Code).
Appendix I.  Guidelines on Fire Ratings for Archaic Materials and Assemblies.
Appendix from NFPA 914.

Section 1007 
Historic Cuban Tile

1007.1 Historic Cuban Tile, a material with distinctive architectural features and unity and with examples of skilled craftsmanship. In order to preserve its use and in accordance with Section 1003.2 Historic Preservation Objectives, its use shall be preserved for both existing and new construction with the following requirements. 

1007.2 Handmade or hand process made barrel ("C"-shaped) natural clay tile, often variegated in color, either manufactured in the Republic of Cuba prior to the imposition of the U.S. Embargo, or, in the case of antique tile, manufactured in 18th Century Spain, salvaged from buildings in Cuba and imported to the United States during the 1920's and 1930's.

1.IDENTIFICATION:  Final responsibility for the identification of historic Cuban tile shall rest with the Building Official, subject to the appeals process established by the Florida Building Code.  Historic Cuban Tile is generally identified in the following manner:

A. Tile bearing an embossed identification mark usually located on the convex side at the wide taper end of the tile, the most common of which are: "C.E. SAÑUDO MADE IN CUBA"; "JAIME MADE IN CUBA"; "FLORIDO"; "st ANA R.S."; "St. FELIPE"; "MIA"; "CPS"; "C"; "D"; "DD"; "DDD"; "M"; [script] "M"; [script] "JS";   "S"; "SS"; "TZ"; "Z"; "ZZ"; "*", a non-alphabetical symbol (such as the "delta" figure created by three finger-tip impressions in a triangular position), or a distinctive physical characteristic (such as a burlap material impression over the convex surface of the tile, or finger-made impression band(s) located across the end lap of the convex surface); and

 B.Tile not bearing an embossed identification mark, a non-alphabetical symbol, or a distinctive physical characteristic(s) listed in (1) above, but determined by official action of the legally constituted historic preservation board or historic preservation officer of the jurisdiction to be antique Cuban tile of Spanish origin or tile manufactured in pre-embargo Cuba.

2. REAPPLICATION OF HISTORIC CUBAN TILE - METHOD:  When a structure which bore historic Cuban tile when originally constructed is reroofed, reapplication of historic Cuban tile, rather than replacement with new contemporary tile, is preferred and shall be encouraged by the Building Official. When historic Cuban tile is reapplied under the circumstances described above, except as otherwise provided herein, all of the requirements of this Code, especially Chapter 15 relating to Roof Covering and Application, shall apply.  In addition, the following reapplication methods shall be observed:

A. ATTACHMENT:  Historic Cuban tile shall be mortar set or adhesive set to the deck in the same manner as other product control approved handmade clay barrel tile, in accordance with Roofing Application Standard 120.

B. USE WITH CONTEMPORARY TILE: Where, during removal, the salvage ratio of the historic Cuban tile is less than 100 percent, it is preferred that the replacement cap tile also be historic Cuban tile.  Where this is not practical or possible, during reapplication, the salvaged historic Cuban tile shall be used only as cap tile, and not as pan tile.  The historic Cuban tile should always be reapplied to distinctive architectural elements such as walls, parapets and chimneys.  Where contemporary barrel tile is used to supplement salvaged historic Cuban tile, the contemporary barrel tile shall be product control approved and otherwise comply with all the requirements of this Code.  It is preferred that the contemporary barrel tile when used as cap tile, be handmade natural clay tile, but, in any event, it shall be the same shape, color and texture as the existing historic Cuban tile.  Because the salvage ratio of pan tile is low and because pan tile is much less visible, reapplication of historic Cuban tile as a pan tile is discouraged.  Rather, it is preferred that pan tile be contemporary barrel tile of either handmade clay, vitrified clay or cement.

C. MIXING DISSIMILAR TILES:  Mixing dissimilar tile styles or shapes, such as an "S"-shaped tile with the "C"-shaped historic Cuban barrel tile, even on separate roofing surfaces of the same structure, shall be avoided.  In no case shall dissimilar tile styles or shapes be permitted on the same roofing surface.

D. DOUBLE CAPS AND/OR PANS ON THE EAVE ROOF LINE:  For reinforcement during routine maintenance and for aesthetic purposes, double caps, double pans, or both, shall be encouraged on the eave roof line, especially where extant or historical evidence of the original installation indicates the use of this historic technique.

E. INSPECTION AND TESTING OF THE INSTALLATION:  Installations of salvaged and reapplied historic Cuban tile, as are specifically permitted in this section, shall be subject to each and every inspection and test otherwise required in this Code for a barrel tile mortar set or adhesive set installation.

3. EXEMPTION FROM PRODUCT CONTROL AND TESTING REQUIREMENTS:  Historic Cuban tile, when salvaged and reapplied, as otherwise provided in this section, to a roof which historically bore such material, is exempt from the product control and pre-installation physical testing requirements of this Code. However, the completed installation shall be subject to each and every inspection and test otherwise required of a barrel tile mortar set or adhesive set installation, and, further, if contemporary barrel tile is used to supplement historic Cuban tile, the contemporary tile shall be product control approved and comply with all requirements of this Code.

CHAPTER 11 
RELOCATED OR MOVED BUILDINGS

SECTION 1101
GENERAL

1101.1 Scope. This chapter provides requirements for
relocated or moved structures.

1101.2 Conformance. The building shall be safe for
human occupancy as determined by the Florida Fire Prevention Code and the Florida Building Code. Any repair, alteration or change in occupancy undertaken within the moved structure shall comply with the requirements of this code applicable to the work being performed. Any field fabricated elements shall comply with the requirements of the Florida Building Code.

SECTION 1102
REQUIREMENTS

1102.0 Residential buildings or structures moved into or within a county or municipality shall not be required to be brought into compliance with the state minimum building code in force at the time the building or structure is moved provided:

1.  The building or structure is structurally sound and in occupiable condition for its intended use;

2.  The occupancy use classification for the building or structure is not changed as a result of the move;

3.  The building is not substantially remodeled;

4.  Current fire code requirements for ingress and egress are met;

5.  Electrical, gas and plumbing systems meet the code in force at the time of construction and are operational and safe for reconnection; and

6.  Foundation plans are sealed by a professional engineer or architect licensed to practice in this state, if required by the Florida Building Code for all residential buildings or structures of the same occupancy class.

7.  Moving of buildings shall be in accordance with the Florida Building Code.

1102.1 Location on the lot. The building shall be
located on the lot in accordance with the requirements of the Florida Building Code 

1102.2 Foundation. The foundation system of relocated buildings shall comply with the Florida Building Code.

1102.2.1 Historic buildings.  Foundations of relocated historic buildings and structures shall comply with the Florida Building Code.  Relocated historic buildings shall otherwise be considered a historic building for the purpose of this Code.  Relocated historic buildings and structures shall be so sited that exterior wall and opening requirements comply with the Florida Building Code or the compliance alternatives of this Code.

1102.2.2 Connection to the foundation. The
connection of the relocated building to the foundation
shall comply with the Florida Building Code.

1102.3 Wind Loads. Building shall comply with
Florida Building Code wind provisions.

Exceptions:

1. Structural elements whose stress is not increased
by more than 5 percent.

2. Manufactured buildings as approved by the Manufactured Buildings Program, Florida Department of Community Affairs.

1102.4 Required inspection and repairs. The building official shall be authorized to inspect, or require inspection by approved professionals at the expense of the owner, the various structural parts of a relocated building to verify that structural components and connections have not sustained structural damage. Any repairs required by the building official as a result of such inspection shall be made prior to the final approval.

CHAPTER 12
COMPLIANCE ALTERNATIVES

SECTION 1201
GENERAL

1201.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter are
intended to maintain or increase the current degree of
public safety, health and general welfare in existing
buildings while permitting repair, alteration, addition and change of occupancy without requiring full compliance with Chapters 4 through 10, except where compliance with other provisions of this code is specifically required in this Chapter.

1201.2 Applicability. Existing structures shall be made to conform to the requirements of this chapter or the provisions of Chapters 4 through 10. The provisions in Sections 1201.2.1 through 1201.2.5 shall apply to existing occupancies that will continue to be, or are proposed to be, in Groups A, B, E, D, F, M, R, and S. These provisions shall not apply to buildings with occupancies in Group H or I.

1201.2.1 Change in occupancy. Where an existing
building is changed to a new occupancy classification
and this section is applicable, the provisions of this
section for the new occupancy shall be used to
determine compliance with this code.

1201.2.2 Part change in occupancy. Where a
portion of the building is changed to a new occupancy
classification, and that portion is separated from the
remainder of the building with fire barrier walls
assemblies having a fire resistance rating as required
by Table 704.1 of the Florida Building Code for the separate occupancies, or with approved compliance alternatives, the portion changed shall be made to conform to the provisions of this section. Where a portion of the building is changed to a new occupancy classification, and that portion is not separated from the remainder of the building with fire separation assemblies having a fire resistance rating as required by Table 704.1 of the Florida Building Code for the separate occupancies, or with approved compliance alternatives, the provisions of this section which apply to each occupancy shall apply to the entire building. Where there are conflicting provisions, those requirements which secure the greater public safety shall apply to the entire building or structure.

1201.2.3 Additions. Additions to existing buildings
shall comply with the requirements of the Florida Building Code and this code for new construction. The combined height and area of the existing building and the new addition shall not exceed the height and area allowed by Chapter 5 of the Florida Building Code. Where a fire wall that complies with Table 600 and Chapter 2 of the Florida Building Code is provided between the addition and the existing building, the addition shall be considered a separate building.

1201.2.4 Alterations and repairs. An existing
building or portion thereof, which does not comply
with the requirements of this code for new
construction shall not be altered or repaired in such
a manner that results in the building being less safe
or sanitary than such building is currently. If, in the
alteration or repair, the current level of safety or
sanitation is to be reduced, the portion altered or
repaired shall conform to the requirements of
Chapters 2 through 33 of the Florida Building Code.

1201.2.5 Accessibility requirements. All portions of
the buildings proposed for change of occupancy shall
conform to the accessibility provisions of Chapter 11
of the Florida Building Code.

1201.3 Acceptance. For repairs, alterations, additions
and changes of occupancy to existing buildings that are evaluated in accordance with this section, compliance with this section shall be accepted by the code official.

1201.3.2 Compliance with other codes. Buildings
that are evaluated in accordance with this section
shall comply with the Florida Fire Prevention Code 

1201.3.3 Compliance with flood hazard
provisions. In flood hazard areas, buildings that are
evaluated in accordance with this section shall comply with Florida Building Code Sections 1609 (HVHZ shall comply with Section 1617.9) and 3109 if the work covered by this section constitutes substantial improvement.

1201.4 Investigation and evaluation. For proposed
work covered by this chapter, the building owner shall
cause the existing building to be investigated and
evaluated by a registered architect of engineer in accordance with the provisions of Sections
1201.4 through 1201.9.

1201.4.0 Historic buildings shall be investigated and evaluated in accordance with Chapter 10.

1201.4.1 Structural analysis. The owner shall have
a structural analysis of the existing building made by a registered architect or engineer to determine adequacy of structural systems for the proposed alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The existing building shall be capable of supporting the minimum load requirements of Chapter 16 of the Florida Building Code.

1201.4.2 Submittal. The results of the investigation
and evaluation as required in Section 1201.4, along
with proposed compliance alternatives, shall be
submitted to the code official.

1201.4.3 Determination of compliance. The code
official shall determine whether the existing building,
with the proposed addition, alteration or change of
occupancy, complies with the provisions of this
section in accordance with the evaluation process in
Sections 1201.5 through 1201.9.

1201.5 Evaluation. The evaluation shall be comprised of three categories. fire safety, means of egress and general safety, as described in Sections 1201.5.1 through 1201.5.3.

1201.5.1 Fire safety. Included within the fire safety
category are the structural fire resistance, automatic
fire detection, fire alarm and fire suppression system
features of the facility.

1201.5.2 Means of egress. Included within the
means of egress category are the configuration,
characteristics and support features for means of
egress in the facility.

1201.5.3 General safety. Included within the general
safety category are the fire safety parameters and the
means of egress parameters.

1201.6 Evaluation process. The evaluation process
specified herein shall be followed in its entirety to
evaluate existing buildings. Table 1201.7 shall be utilized for tabulating the results of the evaluation. References to other sections of this code indicate that compliance with those sections is required in order to gain credit in the evaluation herein outlined. In applying this section to a building with mixed occupancies, where the separation between the mixed occupancies does not qualify for any
category indicated in Section 1201.6.16, the score for
each occupancy shall be determined and the lower score determined for each section of the evaluation process shall apply to the entire building.

Where the separation between the mixed occupancies
qualifies for any category indicated in Section 1201.6.16, the score for each occupancy shall apply to each portion of the building based on the occupancy of the space.

1201.6.1 Building height. The value for building
height shall be the lesser value determined by the
formula in Section 1201.6.1.1. Chapter 5 of the
Florida Building Code and shall be used to
determine the allowable height of the building,
including allowable increases due to automatic
sprinklers in Section 503. Subtract the actual building height from the allowable and divide by 12 ½ feet. Enter the height value and its sign positive or negative in Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.1, Building Height, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety. The maximum score for a building shall be 10.

1201.6.1.1 Height formula. The following
formulas shall be used in computing the building
height value.

                                   (AH) - (EBH) 
Height value, feet =  $$$$$$$$$$  x CF
                                   12.5

Height value, stories = (AS-EBS) x CF
(Equation 12-1)

where:
AH = Allowable height in feet from Table 5003
of the Florida Building Code.
EBH = Existing building height in feet.
AS = Allowable height in stories from Table
5003 of the Florida Building Code.
EBS = Existing building height in stories.
CF = 1 if (AH) - (EBH) is positive.
CF = Construction-type factor shown in
Table1201.6.6(2) if (AH) - (EBH) is
negative.

Note. Where mixed occupancies are separated
and individually evaluated as indicated in Section
1201.6, the values AH, AS, EBH and EBS shall
be based on the height of the fire area of the
occupancy being evaluated.

1201.6.2 Building area. The value for building area
shall be determined by the formula in Section
1201.6.2.2. Section 503.1 of the Florida Building Code and the formula in Section 1201.6.2.1 shall be used to determine the allowable area of the building. The allowable area shall be the lesser value
calculated by equations 12-2 and 12-3.This shall
include any allowable increases due to open
perimeter and automatic sprinklers as provided for in
Section 503 of the Florida Building Code. Subtract the actual building area from the allowable area and divide by 1,200 square feet (112 m2). Enter the area
value and its sign (positive or negative) in Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 201.6.2, Building Area, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety. In determining the area value, the maximum permitted positive value for area is 50 percent of the fire safety score as listed in Table 1201.8, Mandatory Safety Scores.

1201.6.2.1 Allowable area formula. The following
formula shall be used in computing allowable area:

Aa = (100 + If + Is) x At
                  100                                 (Equation 12-2)

Amax. = 3 x Aa, as determined in accordance with Section 503 of the Florida Building Code.

Aa,max. = Amax.
Number of stories                            (Equation 12-3)

where:
Aa = Allowable area per floor
Is = Area increase due to sprinkler protection
percent as calculated in accordance with
Section 503 of the Florida Building
Code.
If = Area increase due to frontage, percent as
calculated in accordance with Section 503
of the Florida Building Code.
At = Tabular area per floor in accordance with
Table 500 of the Florida Building Code
square feet
Amax. = Total area of the entire building.
Aa,max. = Allowable area per floor based on the
limitations of Section 503 of the Florida Building Code.

1201.6.2.2 Area formula. The following formula
shall be used in computing the area value.
Determine the Area Value for each occupancy fire
area on a floor by floor basis. For each occupancy,
choose the minimum Area Value of the set of
values obtained for the particular occupancy.

                          Allowable V      Š Actual          Actual    ‘  [
                              Area i         ˆ    Area i         Area n
Area value i =  $$$$$$$$   . 1- ‰ $$$$$$$ +..+ $$$$$$ �  /
                        1,200 sq ft       ‰  Allowable    Allowable   �
                                         J     ‹   Area i         Area n       ’  O

(Equation 12–4)

where:

i = value for an individual separated occupancy
on a floor.
n = number of separated occupancies on a floor.

1201.6.3 Compartmentation. Evaluate the
compartments created by fire barrier walls which
comply with Sections 1201.6.3.1 and 1201.6.3.2 and
which are exclusive of the wall elements considered
under Sections 1201.6.4 and 1201.6.5. Conforming
compartments shall be figured as the net area and
do not include shafts, chases, stairways, walls or
columns. Using Table 1201.6.3, determine the
appropriate compartmentation value (CV) and enter
that value into Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter
1201.6.3, Compartmentation, for fire safety, means
of egress and general safety.

1201.6.3.1 Wall construction. A wall used to
create separate compartments shall be a fire
barrier conforming to Section 705 of the
Florida Building Code with a fire resistance
rating of not less than 2 hours. Where the
building is not divided into more than one
compartment, the compartment size shall be
taken as the total floor area on all floors. Where
there is more than one compartment within a
story, each compartmented area on such story
shall be provided with a horizontal exit
conforming to Section 1009 of the
Florida Building Code. The fire door serving
as the horizontal exit between compartments
shall be so installed, fitted and gasketed that
such fire door will provide a substantial barrier to
the passage of smoke.

1201.6.3.2 Floor/ceiling construction. A
floor/ceiling assembly used to create
compartments shall conform to Section 701 of the
Florida Building Code and shall have a fire
resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.

1201.6.4 Tenant and dwelling unit separations.
Evaluate the fire resistance rating of floors and walls
separating tenants, including dwelling units, and not
evaluated under Sections 1201.6.3 and 1201.6.5.
Under the categories and occupancies in Table
1201.6.4, determine the appropriate value and enter
that value in Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter
1201.6.4, Tenant and Dwelling Unit Separation, for
fire safety, means of egress and general safety.

1201.6.4.1 Categories. The categories for tenant
and dwelling unit separations are:

1. Category a — No fire partitions; incomplete
fire partitions; no doors; doors not self-closing
or automatic closing.

2. Category b — Fire partitions or floor assembly
less than 1-hour fire resistance rating or not
constructed in accordance with Sections 704 or
701 of the Florida Building Code, respectively.

3. Category c — Fire partitions with 1 hour or greater fire resistance rating constructed in accordance with Section 704 of the Florida Building Code and floor assemblies with 1-hour but less than 2-hour fire resistance rating constructed in accordance with Section 701 of the Florida Building Code or with only one tenant within the fire area.

4. Category d — Fire barriers with 1-hour but less
than 2-hour fire resistance rating constructed in
accordance with Section 704.2 of the Florida Building Code and floor assemblies with 2-hour or greater fire
resistance rating constructed in accordance with Section 701 of the Florida Building Code.

5. Category e — Fire barriers and floor
assemblies with 2-hour or greater fire
resistance rating and constructed in
accordance with Sections 704.2 and 701 of the
Florida Building Code, respectively.

TABLE 1201.6.3
COMPARTMENTATION VALUES

OCCUPANCY	CATEGORIES	
	a
Compartment size
equal to or greater
than 15,000
square feet	b
Compartment size
of 10,000 square
feet	c
Compartment size
of 7,500 square
feet	d
Compartment size
of 5,000 square
feet	e
Compartment size of
2,500 square feet or
less	
A-1	0	6	10	14	18	
A-2	4	4	10	14	18	
B, E, S2, D	0	5	10	15	20	
F, M, R, S1	0	4	10	16	22	

TABLE 1201.6.4
SEPARATION VALUES
OCCUPANCY	CATEGORIES	
	a	b	c	d	e	
A-1	0	0	0	0	1	
A-2	-5	-3	0	1	3	
R	-4	-2	0	2	4	
B, E, F, M,  D, SI	-4	-3	0	2	4	
S2	-5	-2	0	2	4	

1201.6.5 Corridor walls. Evaluate the fire resistance rating and degree of completeness of walls which create corridors serving the floor, and constructed in accordance with Sections 704, 1003, 1012, and Table  1004 of the Florida Building Code. This evaluation shall not include the wall elements considered under Sections 1201.6.3 and 1201.6.4. Under the categories and Groups in Table 1201.6.5, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.5, Corridor Walls, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.

1201.6.5.1 Categories. The categories for
corridor walls are:

1. Category a — No fire partitions; incomplete fire
partitions; no doors; or doors not self-closing.

2. Category b — Less than 1-hour fire resistance
rating or not constructed in accordance with
Section 704 of the Florida Building Code.

3. Category c — 1-hour to less than 2-hour fire
resistance rating, with doors conforming to
Section 704.2 of the Florida Building Code or without corridors as permitted by Section 1003 of the Florida Building Code.

4. Category d — 2-hour or greater fire resistance
rating, with doors conforming to Section 705 of
the Florida Building Code.

TABLE 1201.6.5
CORRIDOR WALL VALUES

OCCUPANCY	CATEGORIES	
	a	b	ca	da	
A-1	-10	-4	0	2	
A-2	-30	-12	0	2	
F, M, R, S1	-7	-3	0	2	
B, E, S2, D	-5	-2	0	2	

a. Corridors not providing at least one-half the travel
distance for all occupants on a floor shall use Category b.

1201.6.6 Vertical openings. Evaluate the fire
resistance rating of vertical exit enclosures,
hoistways, escalator openings and other shaft
enclosures within the building, and openings between
two or more floors. Table 1201.6.6(1) contains the
appropriate protection values. Multiply that value by
the construction-type factor found in Table
1201.6.6(2). Enter the vertical opening value and its
sign, positive or negative, in Table 1201.7 under
Safety Parameter 1201.6.6, Vertical Openings, for fire
safety, means of egress and general safety. If the
structure is a one-story building, enter a value of 2.
Unenclosed vertical openings that conform to the
requirements of Section 705 of the Florida 
Building Code shall not be considered in the
evaluation of vertical openings.

1201.6.6.1 Vertical opening formula. The
following formula shall be used in computing
vertical opening value.

VO = PV x CF                                (Equation 12-5)
VO = Vertical opening value.
PV = Protection value from Table 1201.6.6(1)
CF = Construction type factor from Table 1201.6.6(2)

TABLE 1201.6.6(1)
VERTICAL OPENING PROTECTION VALUE
PROTECTION	VALUE	
None (unprotected opening)	-2 times number floors connected	
Less than 1 hour	-1 times number floors connected	
1 to less than 2 hours	1	
2 hours or more	2	

TABLE 1201.6.6(2)
Type of Construction
Type	I	II	III	IV	V	VI	
		S		S		S	1 Hr	Un	S	1 Hr	Un	S	1 Hr	Un	S	
Factor	1.2	1.1	2.2	1.6	2.3	1.7	2.2	2.3	2.2	3.0	3.2	3.0	3.3	7.0	3.3	
S: sprinklered
Un: unsprinklered

1201.6.7 HVAC systems. Evaluate the ability of the
HVAC system to resist the movement of smoke and
fire beyond the point of origin. Under the categories
in Section 1201.6.7.1, determine the appropriate
value and enter that value into Table 1201.7 under
Safety Parameter 1201.6.7, HVAC Systems, for fire
safety, means of egress and general safety.

1201.6.7.1 Categories. The categories for HVAC
systems are:

1. Category a — Plenums not in accordance with
Section 602 of the Florida Mechanical Code. -10 points.

2. Category b — Air movement in egress
elements not in accordance with Section
1005.4.3 of the Florida Building Code.
-5 points.

3. Category c — Both categories a and b are
applicable. -15 points.

4. Category d — Compliance of the HVAC
system with Section 1005.4.3 of the
Florida Building Code and Section 602 of
the Florida Mechanical Code. 0 points.

5. Category e — Systems serving one story; or a
central boiler/chiller system without ductwork
connecting two or more stories. +5 points.

1201.6.8 Automatic fire detection. Evaluate the
smoke detection capability based on the location and
operation of automatic fire detectors in accordance
with Section 905 of the Florida Building Code and the Florida Mechanical Code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1201.6.8, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.8, Automatic Fire Detection, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.

1201.6.8.1 Categories. The categories for
automatic fire detection are:

1. Category a — None.

2. Category b — Existing smoke detectors in
HVAC systems and maintained in accordance
with the Florida Fire Prevention Code.

3. Category c — Smoke detectors in HVAC
systems. The detectors are installed in
accordance with the requirements for new
buildings in the Florida Mechanical Code.

4. Category d — Smoke detectors throughout all
floor areas other than individual guest rooms,
tenant spaces and dwelling units.

5. Category e — Smoke detectors installed
throughout the fire area.

TABLE 1201.6.8
AUTOMATIC FIRE DETECTION VALUES
OCCUPANCY	CATEGORIES	
	a	b	c	d	e	
A-1, F, M,
R, S1	-10	-5	0	2	6	
A-2 	-25	-5	0	5	9	
B, E, S2, D	-4	-2	0	4	8	

1201.6.9 Fire alarm systems. Evaluate the capability of the fire alarm system in accordance with Section 9057. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1201.6.9, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.9, Fire Alarm, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.

1201.6.9.1 Categories. The categories for fire
alarm systems are:

1. Category a — None.

2. Category b — Fire alarm system with manual
fire alarm boxes in accordance with Section 905.1 of the Florida Building Code and alarm notification appliances in accordance with Section 905 of the Florida Building Code.

3. Category c — Fire alarm system in accordance
with Section 905 of the Florida Building Code.

4. Category d – Fire alarm systems installed but not required in accordance with NFPA 72.

5. Category e  — Category c plus a required
emergency voice/alarm communications
system and a fire command station that
conforms to NFPA 412.4 and contains the emergency voice/alarm communications system controls, fire department communication system
controls and any other controls specified in NFPA 412.4 where those systems are provided.

TABLE 1201.6.9
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM VALUES
OCCUPANCY	CATEGORIES	
	a	b*,**a 	c**	d**	e**	
A-1,A-2, B, E,R, D	-10	-5	0	3	5	
F, M, S	0	5	10	12	15	
Footnote: category d, fire alarm system installed in accordance with NFPA 72 but not required

Add note: 

•	* For buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, add 2 points for activation by a sprinkler water flow device.
•	** For fire alarm systems meeting central station or remote station in accordance with NFPA 72, add 2 points.

1201.6.10 Smoke control. Evaluate the ability of a
natural or mechanical venting, exhaust or
pressurization system to control the movement of
smoke from a fire. Under the categories and
occupancies in Table 1201.6.10, determine the
appropriate value and enter that value into Table
1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.10, Smoke
Control, for means of egress and general safety.

TABLE 1201.6.10
SMOKE CONTROL VALUES
OCCUPANCY	CATEGORIES	
	a	b 	c	d	e	f	
A-1, A-2	0	1	2	3	6	6	
 E, D 	0	0	0	1	3	5	
B, M, R	0	2a	3a	3a	3a	4a	
F, S,	0	2a	2a	3a	3a	3a	

a. This value shall be 0 if compliance with Category d or e in Section 1201.6.8.1 has not been obtained.

1201.6.10.1 Categories. The categories for
smoke control are:

1. Category a — None.

2. Category b — The building is equipped
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
Openings are provided in exterior walls at the
rate of 20 square feet (1.86 m2) per 50 linear
feet (15 240 mm) of exterior wall in each story
and distributed around the building perimeter
at intervals not exceeding 50 feet (15 240
mm). Such openings shall be readily openable
from the inside without a key or separate tool
and shall be provided with ready access
thereto. In lieu of operable openings, clearly
and permanently marked tempered glass
panels shall be used.

3. Category c — One enclosed exit stairway, with
ready access thereto, from each occupied floor
of the building. The stairway has operable
exterior windows and the building has
openings in accordance with Category b.

4. Category d — One smokeproof enclosure and
the building has openings in accordance with
Category b.

5. Category e — The building is equipped
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
Each fire area is provided with a mechanical
air-handling system designed to accomplish
smoke containment. Return and exhaust air
shall be moved directly to the outside without
recirculation to other fire areas of the building
under fire conditions. The system shall
exhaust not less than six air changes per hour
from the fire area. Supply air by mechanical
means to the fire area is not required.
Containment of smoke shall be considered as
confining smoke to the fire area involved
without migration to other fire areas. Any other
tested and approved design which will adequately accomplish smoke containment is permitted.

6. Category f — Each stairway shall be one of the
following. a smokeproof enclosure in
accordance with Section 1005.6 of the
Florida Building Code; pressurized in
accordance with Section 1005.6.9 of the
Florida Building Code; or shall have
operable exterior windows.

1201.6.11 Means of egress capacity and number.
Evaluate the means of egress capacity and the
number of exits available to the building occupants.
In applying this section, the means of egress are
required to conform to Sections 1004 of the Florida Building Code (with the exception of Section 1004.1.1), 1003 of the Florida Building Code (except that the minimum width required by this section shall be determined solely by the width for the required capacity in accordance with Tables 1004 of the Florida Building Code), 1005 and 1010 of the Florida Building Code. The number of exits credited are the number that are available to each occupant of the area being evaluated. Existing fire escapes shall be accepted as a component in the means of egress when conforming to Section 605.3.1.2. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1201.6.11, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.11, Means of Egress Capacity, for means of egress and general safety.

1201.6.11.1 Categories. The categories for
means of egress capacity and number of exits
are:

1. Category a - Compliance with the minimum
required means of egress capacity or number
of exits is achieved through the use of a fire
escape in accordance with Section 605.3.1.2

2. Category b — Capacity of the means of egress
complies with Section 1003 of the Florida Building Code and the number of exits complies with the minimum number required by Section 1004 of the Florida Building Code.

3. Category c — Capacity of the means of egress
is equal to or exceeds 125 percent of the
required means of egress capacity, the means
of egress complies with the minimum required
width dimensions specified in the code and the
number of exits complies with the minimum
number required by Section 1004 of the
Florida Building Code.

4. Category d — The number of exits provided
exceeds the number of exits required by Section 1004 of the Florida Building Code. Exits shall be located a distance apart from each other equal to not less than that specified in Section 1004 of the Florida Building Code.

5. Category e — The area being evaluated meets
both Categories c and d.

TABLE 1201.6.11
MEANS OF EGRESS VALUES
OCCUPANCY	CATEGORIES	
	a	b 	c	d	e	
A-1, A-2, E, D	-10	0	2	8 	10	
M, B	-3	0 	1 	2 	4	
F, S	-1	0	0	0	0	
R	-3	0	0	0 	0	

a. The values indicated are for buildings six stories or less in height. For buildings over six stories in height, add an additional -10 points.

1201.6.12 Dead ends. In spaces required to be
served by more than one means of egress, evaluate the length of the exit access travel path in which the building occupants are confined to a single path of travel. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1201.6.12, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.12, Dead Ends, for means of egress and general safety.

1201.6.12.1 Categories. The categories for dead
ends are:

1. Category a — Dead end of 35 feet (10 670
mm) in unsprinklered buildings or 70 feet (21
340 mm) in sprinklered buildings.

2. Category b — Dead end of 20 feet (6096 mm);
or 50 feet (15 240 mm) in Group B in accordance with Section 1005.2 of the Florida Building Code.

3. Category c — No dead ends; or ratio of length
to width (l/w) is less than 2.5:1.

TABLE 1201.6.12
DEAD-END VALUES
OCCUPANCY	CATEGORIES	
	a	b	c	
A-1, B, E, D, F, M, R, S	-2	0	2	
A-2, E	-2	0	2	

a. For dead-end distances between categories, the
dead-end value shall be obtained by linear
interpolation.

1201.6.13 Maximum travel distance to an exit.
Evaluate the length of exit access travel to an
approved exit. Determine the appropriate points in
accordance with the following equation and enter that value into Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.13, Maximum Exit Access Travel Distance, for means of egress and general safety. The maximum allowable exit access travel distance shall be determined in accordance with Section 1004.1 of the Florida Building Code.

                              Maximum allowable _  Maximum actual
                                 Travel distance          Travel distance
Points = 20 x ____________________________________
                                   Max. allowable travel distance

1201.6.14 Elevator control. Evaluate the passenger elevator equipment and controls that are available to the fire department to reach all occupied floors. Elevator recall controls shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 30 of the Florida Building Code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1201.6.14, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.14, Elevator Control, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety. The values shall be zero for a single story building.

1201.6.14.1 Categories. The categories for
elevator controls are:

1. Category a — No elevator.
2. Category b — Any elevator without Phase I
and II recall.

3. Category c — All elevators with Phase I and II
recall as required by the Florida Fire Prevention Code.

4. Category d — All meet Category c; or
Category b where permitted to be without
recall; and at least one elevator that complies
with new construction requirements serves all
occupied floors.

TABLE 1201.6.14
ELEVATOR CONTROL VALUES
ELEVATOR
TRAVEL	CATEGORIES	
	a	b	c 	d	
Less than 25 feet of travel above or below the primary level of elevator access for emergency fire-fighting or rescue personnel	-2	0	0	+2	
Travel of 25 feet or more above or below the primary level of elevator access for emergency fire-fighting or rescue personnel	-4	NP	0	+4	

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

1201.6.15 Means of egress emergency lighting.
Evaluate the presence of and reliability of means of
egress emergency lighting. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1201.6.15, determine the
appropriate value and enter that value into Table
1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.15, Means of Egress Emergency Lighting, for means of egress and general safety.

1201.6.15.1 Categories. The categories for
means of egress emergency lighting are:

1. Category a — Means of egress lighting and
exit signs not provided with emergency power
in accordance with Section 1016  of the
Florida Building Code.

2. Category b — Means of egress lighting and
exit signs provided with emergency power in
accordance with Section 1016 of the Florida Building Code.

3. Category c — Emergency power provided to
means of egress lighting and exit signs which
provides protection in the event of power
failure to the site or building.

TABLE 1201.6.15
MEANS OF EGRESS EMERGENCY LIGHTING VALUES
NUMBER OF EXITS REQUIRED
BY SECTION 1005.2 OF THE
Florida  Building Code	CATEGORIES	
	a	b	c	
Two or more exits	NP	0 	4	
Minimum or one exit	0	1	1	

1201.6.16 Mixed occupancies. Where a building
has two or more occupancies that are not in the same occupancy classification, the separation between the mixed occupancies shall be evaluated in accordance with this section. Where there is no separation between the mixed occupancies or the separation between mixed occupancies does not qualify for any of the categories indicated in Section 1201.6.16.1, the building shall be evaluated as indicated in Section 1201.6 and the value for mixed occupancies shall be zero. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1201.6.16, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.16, Mixed Occupancies, for fire safety and general safety. For buildings without mixed occupancies, the value shall be zero.

1201.6.16.1 Categories. The categories for mixed
occupancies are:

1. Category a — Minimum 1-hour fire barriers
between occupancies.

2. Category b — Fire barriers between
occupancies in accordance with Section 704
of the Florida Building Code.

3. Category c — Fire barriers between
occupancies having a fire resistance rating of
not less than twice that required by Section 704
of the Florida Building Code.

TABLE 1201.6.16
MIXED OCCUPANCY VALUESa

OCCUPANCY	CATEGORIES	
	a	b	c	
A-1, A-2, R	-10	0 	10	
B, E, F, M, S, D	-5	0	5	

a. For fire-resistance ratings between categories, the value shall be obtained by linear interpolation.

1201.6.17 Sprinklers. Evaluate the ability to
suppress a fire based on the installation of an
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 903.2 of the Florida Building Code.  “Required sprinklers” shall be based on the requirements of this code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1201.6.17, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.17, Automatic Sprinklers, for fire safety, means of egress divided by 2 and general safety. Hi-Rise buildings defined in Section 412.1 of the Florida Building Code that undergo a change in occupancy to Use groups R, shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 412.1 and Chapter 9 of the Florida Building Code.

1201.6.17.1 Categories. The categories for
automatic sprinkler system protection are:

1. Category a — Sprinklers are required
throughout; sprinkler protection is not provided
or the sprinkler system design is not adequate
for the hazard protected in accordance with
Section 903 of the Florida Building Code.

2. Category b — Sprinklers are required in a
portion of the building; sprinkler protection is
not provided or the sprinkler system design is
not adequate for the hazard protected in
accordance with Section 903 of the
Florida Building Code.

3. Category c — Sprinklers are not required;
none are provided.

4. Category d — Sprinklers are required in a
portion of the building; sprinklers are provided
in such portion; the system is one which
complied with the code at the time of
installation and is maintained and supervised
in accordance with Section 903 of the
Florida Building Code.

5. Category e — Sprinklers are required
throughout; sprinklers are provided throughout
in accordance with Chapter 9 of the
Florida Building Code.

6. Category f — Sprinklers are not required
throughout; sprinklers are provided throughout
in accordance with Chapter 9 of the
Florida Building Code.

TABLE 1201.6.17
SPRINKLER SYSTEM VALUES
OCCUPANCY	CATEGORIES	
	a	b 	c	d	e	f	
A-1, F, M, R, S1	-6	-3	0 	2 	4	9 	
A-2	-4	-2 	0 	1	2	6 	
B, E, S2 D	-12	-6 	0	3	6	18 	

A. & B These options cannot be taken if category a is obtained in Section 1201.6.18.

1201.6.18 Standpipes: Evaluate the ability to initiate attack on a fire by making supply of water available readily through the installation of Standpipes in accordance with Section 904 of the Florida Building Code. “Required Standpipes” shall be based on the requirements of the Florida Building Code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1201.6.18, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into table 1201.7 under Safety Parameter 1201.6.18, Standpipes, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.

1201.6.18.1 Standpipe: The categories for
Standpipe systems are:

1. Category a – Standpipes are required;
Standpipe is not provided or the Standpipe
system design is not in compliance with
Sections 904.2 of the Florida Building Code.

2. Category b – Standpipes are not required;
none are provided.

3. Category c – Standpipes are required;
standpipes are provided in accordance with
Section 904 of the Florida Building Code.

4. Category d – Standpipes are not required;
standpipes are provided in accordance with
Section 904 of the Florida Building Code.

TABLE 1201.6.18
STANDPIPE SYSTEM VALUES
Occupancy	Categories	
	a	b	c 	d	
A-1,F, M, R, S1,	 -6	0	2 	3 	
A-2	 -4	0 	1	2	
B, E, D, S2	 -12	0 	3 	6 	

a. This option cannot be taken if category a or b in
section 1201.6.17 has been obtained.

1201.6.19 Incidental use. Evaluate the protection of
incidental use areas in accordance with Section
303 and 704.1 of the Florida Building Code. Do not include those where this code requires suppression throughout the building including covered mall buildings, high-rise buildings, public garages and
unlimited area buildings. Assign the lowest score for
the building or fire area being evaluated. If there are
no specific occupancy areas in the building or fire
area being evaluated, the value shall be zero.

1201.7 Building score. After determining the
appropriate data from Section 1201.6, enter those data in Table 1201.7 and total the building score.

1201.8 Safety scores. The values in Table 1201.8 are the required mandatory safety scores for the evaluation process listed in Section 1201.6.

1201.9 Evaluation of building safety. The mandatory safety score in Table 1201.8 shall be subtracted from the building score in Table 1201.7 for each category. Where the final score for any category equals zero or more, the building is in compliance with the requirements of this section for that category. Where the final score for any category is less than zero, the building is not in compliance with the requirements of this section.

1201.9.1 Mixed occupancies. For mixed
occupancies, the following provisions shall apply:

1. Where the separation between mixed
occupancies does not qualify for any category
indicated in Section 1201.6.16, the mandatory
safety scores for the occupancy with the lowest
general safety score in Table 1201.8 shall be
utilized. (See Section 1201.6.)

2. Where the separation between mixed
occupancies qualifies for any category indicated
in Section 1201.6.16, the mandatory safety scores
for each occupancy shall be placed against the
evaluation scores for the appropriate occupancy.

TABLE 1201.6.19
Incidental Use Area Values
Protection	Protection Provided required by 704.1 of the FBC	
	None	1 Hour	 AFSS	 AFSS with SP	  2 Hour	
2 Hours	-3	-2	-1	-1 	0	
1 Hour 	-1	0	-1	-1	0	

TABLE 1201.7
SUMMARY SHEET - BUILDING CODE
Existing occupancy ________________________________________  Proposed occupancy _________________________________________

Year building was constructed _______________________________  Number of stories _______________  Height in Feet ________________

Type of construction _______________________________________  Area per floor _______________________________________________

Percentage of Frontage Increase __________________________ %   Percentage of height reduction _______________________________ %

Completely suppressed:     Yes ____________   No _____________   Corridor wall rating ___________________________________________

Compartmentation:             Yes ____________   No _____________   Required door closers:   Yes ________________  No _______________

Fire resistance rating of vertical opening enclosures _________________________________________________________________________

Type of HVAC system _____________________________________  Serving number of floors ______________________________________

Automatic fire detection:     Yes: ____________  No _____________  Type and Location ___________________________________________

Fire alarm system:              Yes: ____________  No _____________  Type ______________________________________________________

Smoke control:                   Yes: ____________  No _____________   Type ______________________________________________________

Adequate exit routes:         Yes: ____________  No _____________    Dead ends:     Yes ___________________  No ___________________

Maximum exit access travel distance _________________________    Elevator controls:   Yes _______________  No ___________________

Means of egress emergency lighting:      Yes _______ No ________     Mixed occupancies: Yes ______________  No _________________	
SAFETY PARAMETERS	FIRE SAFETY (FS)	MEANS OF EGRESS (ME) 	GENERAL SAFETY (GS)	
1201.6.1 Building Height
1201.6.2 Building Area
1201.6.3 Compartmentation		

%%%%	

%%%%	
1201.6.4 Tenant and Dwelling Unit Separations
1201.6.5 Corridor Walls
1201.6.6 Vertical Openings				
1201.6.7 HVAC Systems
1201.6.8 Automatic Fire Detection
1201.6.9 Fire Alarm System				
1201.6.10 Smoke control
1201.6.11 Means of egress
1201.6.12 Dead ends	%%%%
%%%%
%%%%			
1201.6.13 Maximum Exit Access Travel Distance
1201.6.14 Elevator Control
1201.6.15 Means of Egress Emergency Lighting	%%%%
%%%%
%%%%			
1201.6.16 Mixed Occupancies
1201.6.17 Sprinklers
1201.6.18 Standpipes
1201.6.19 Incidential Use Area Protection		%%%%

%%%%
		
Building score - total value				
%%%%No applicable value to be inserted

TABLE 1201.8
MANDATORY SAFETY SCORESa
OCCUPANCY	FIRE SAFETY (MFS)	MEANS OF EGRESS (MME)	GENERAL SAFETY (MGS)	
A-1	20 	31	31	
A-2	21	32	32	
E, D	29	40	40	
B 	30 	40 	40	
F	24	34	34	
M	23 	40	40	
R	21	38	38	
S-1	19	29	29	
S-2 	29	39	39	

a  MFS = Mandatory Fire Safety
    MME = Mandatory Means of Egress
    MGS = Mandatory General Safety

TABLE 1201.9
EVALUATION FORMULASa
FORMULA	T1207.1           T1201.7                 SCORE        PASS        FAIL	
FS-MFS>           0

ME -MME $    0

GS-MGS $     0	______(FS) -    _____(MFS) =       ______        ______       ______

______(ME) -   _____(MME) =      ______         ______       ______

______(GS) -   _____(MGS) =       ______        ______       ______	
a  FS = Fire Safety MFS = Mandatory Fire Safety
    ME = Means of Egress MME = Mandatory Means of Egress
    GS = General Safety MGS = Mandatory General Safety

Insert Chapter 33 of the Florida Building Code

Appendix