Anyone know of a website that has the Universal building code in full on it? or N.Calif local building codes?

Question

need info on stair codes in partic.

Answer 1

most libraries should have copies. the building dept. should have a "public" copy to review also. Do you mean Uniform Building Code??? There are several "national codes" CABO, BOCA, UBC, etc. you need to know what code governs your local before you spend a lot of times...

stairs: you should be safe if you use the 7/11 rule Riser must be between 4" min and 7" max [all risers within a flight must be within 3/8" of same dim] and tread should be 11". 1 1/2" nosings. width of at least 36"

any open sides must have railings, between 34" and 38" high. you need spindles, intermediate rails or other structures so a ball 4" in diameter cannot pass thru them.

Answer 2

Unless someone has listed it on a personal site, which I've never been able to find, No. In that case they would be open to lawsuits as the codes are mostly published by The International Code Council. I just paid $80 for IBC 2006. In regards to stairs, what is the specific question? Lots of code issues on this and tons of determining factors.

Answer 3

My codes books now cost $100.

They better not be on a public domain.

Anyway, since different areas go by different codes, it's best you get the code requirements from you local inspector/code enforcement agency.

The one thing I know about stairways is the handrail cannot be more than 2' wide if it helps you.

Here in New Mexico, we are under the Uniform Building Code in most counties.

Answer 4

No! The cost for Inspectors is in the thousands to obtain this information, and we have to do this every 3 years. You can purchase the Code books from the ICC International Code Council web site.

Answer 5

I've been in the trades for a long time and NEVER heard of any Universal codes.

First of all discounting the fact that the code issues usually require permits and are sources of revenue they are also designed for safety and liability.

Even from one town to another codes may vary, and your best option is to go to the govt. offices in your local municipality and check with them. They'll be more than obliging, in giving you info.

Then,,, if you're going to contract any part of the job, try to use licensed, insured trades people,,,again for liability and recourse purposes.

As a DIY, if you're required to do the job in code, and perhaps have tp pull a permit, you should probably expect an inspection, which again, truly is to your benefit.

Steven Wolf

Answer 6

Call about a building permit and they will tell you the rules and regs for what you are planning to build.