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1. What is the design wind and snow load in Blair's jurisdiction?

The snow load is 30 pounds and the wind speed is 90 mph.

2. Is draft stopping required in residential construction?

When there is usable space both above and below the concealed space of a floor/ceiling assembly, draft stops shall be installed so that the area of the concealed space does not exceed 1,000 square feet. Draft stopping shall divide the concealed space into approximately equal areas. Where the assembly’s enclosed by a floor membrane above and a ceiling membrane below, draft stopping shall be provided in the floor/ceiling assemblies under the following circumstances:
- Ceiling is suspended under the floor framing.
- Floor framing is constructed of truss-type, open-web or perforated members.

3. Does the underside of the stairway in a new residential dwelling need drywall?

Yes, enclosed accessible space under the stairs shall have walls, under stair surface and any soffits protected on the enclosed side with gypsum board. (2009 IRC Code, Section R311.2.2)

4. How much lower can the landing for the front entry of a dwelling be below the door's threshold?

The floor or landing at the exit door shall not be more than 1.5 inches lower than the top of the threshold. (2009 IRC Code, Section R311.4.3)

5. Can the exiting into the garage be your required exit?

No. The required exit door shall provide for direct access from habitable portions of the building without requiring travel through a garage. (2009 IRC Code, Section R311.4.1)

6. Are requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) enforcing in Blair?

Yes. Although the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is federal legislation, the ADA mandates enforcement of the ADA requirements by the City of Blair.

7. Does the ADA include specific counter height requirements for businesses?

Yes. If a counter has a register for sales or distribution of goods or services to the public the counter must meet ADA requirements. If a business has an existing counter, and a remodel project is undertaken but the existing counter will be utilized, a folding shelf 36 inches in height and 36 inches in length is required to be attached. If a new counter is installed during an alteration, remodel or new construction project a portion of the main counter shall have a length of 36 inches and a maximum height above finish floor of 36 inches. (ADA, Title 156, Section 7.2, Page 61)

8. ** Egress Window Sizes **

Is there a size requirement for egress windows?

Yes, the minimum opening shall have a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet. Also, the window is required to have a maximum height of 44” from finish floor to the window sill plate. (2009 IRC Code, Section R310.1 & R310.1.1)

What are the requirements for window wells?

The minimum horizontal area of the window well shall be 9 square feet, with a minimum horizontal projection and width of 36 inches. If the depth of the window well is greater than 44 inches the well shall be equipped with a ladder or steps usable with the window fully open. (2009 IRC Code, Section R310.2 & 310.2.1)*

9. ** When are guardrails required on decks? **

Porches, decks, balconies or raised floor surfaces located more than 30 inches above the floor or grade below shall have guards not less than 36 inches in height. This also includes open sides of stairs with a total rise of more than 30 inches above the floor or grade below shall have guards not less than 34 inches in height. (2009 IRC Section R312.1)

10. ** Manufactured Homes **

Are manufactured homes allowed in city limits?

Manufactured homes are considered single-family dwellings under the City of Blair’s Zoning Ordinance and are allowed in any zoning district where single-family dwellings are permitted. However, some subdivisions are governed by covenants that may not permit manufactured homes. (MC Section 9-109)

Does the city have any other requirements regarding manufactured homes?

Yes, the city requires that manufactured homes have at least 900 square feet of floor area, at least an 18 foot exterior width, a roof pitch with a minimum vertical rise of 2.5 inches for each 12 inches of horizontal run, a non-reflective roof material, an exterior material similar to surrounding residences, roof eaves of at least 12 inches, meter service equipment permanently attached, and wheels, axles, transporting lights, and towing apparatus removed. (MC Section 9-110)

Can I add a garage to a manufactured home?

Additions and alterations are allowed on manufactured homes as long as they meet the requirements of Municipal Code Section 9-111, including an architect or engineers certification for additions affecting the home’s original roof. (MC Section 9-111)