FEMA-296, 10/92


Coide
Compatibility
-Report


Federal Insurance A dministration 
Federal Emergency ManagementAgency 

10o92 

VolumeI of 3 


CodeCompatibility Report


Sponsored by 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency 

October, 1992 

National Institute of 
BUILDING SCIENCES 
1201 L Street. N.W. Suite 400 

Washingtcn. D.C. 20005 


PREFACE


In August of 1991 Hurricane Bob inflicted extensive flood damage along the coastlines of Rhode Island

and southern Massachusetts. contributing to e destruction of or substantial damage to 75 to 90 percentof the homes on barier beaches. Later in October of the same year a nor'easter battered the Atlantic 
coastline with unexpectedly destructive flooding. Widespread flooding occurred in Texas when rivers 
overflowed their banks from heavy rains brought on by the E Nino" warning in Pacific waters a 
phenomenon which recurs every three to five years. 

These three events in a single year underscore that construction of buildings to reduce hazards in flood-
prone regions of the United States is an essential part of the national strategy to minimize the impact of 
natural disasters. Commercial, industrial and residential structures that have been constructed toadequately resist flood hazards according to technical guidelines and standards of the National Flood 
Insurance Program (NF2) have fared best in floods. 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (iFEMA),which prepares and distributes the N1P technical 
guidelines and standards for reduction of flood hazards, has recognized a flood hazard reduction 
standards can be more widely implemented in flood-prone communities by their incorporation into the 

model building codes and standards which are adopted by the states and enforced on a regular basis bylocal building deparmnents. 

This study represents a major step toward eliminating the incompatibilities between the NFW technical 
guidelines and standards and the model codes and standards. The report's recommendations provide a 
basis for coordinating NP? documents with model codes and standards. In addition the report representsa starting point for the preparation of standard design guidelines, and eventually, a consensus standard for 

flood-resistant construction which can be referenced in the model building codes. 

The National Institute of Building Sciences appreciates the opportunity to assist the Federal EmergencyManagement Agency in improving the levels of compatability between the NFl? guidelines and technical 
standards and the model building codes and standards. The Institute wishes to thank the members of the 
Flood Standards Project Committee for their insights and efforts in developing this document, especially

C. Day Ding, the project committee chairman and Earl Flanagan, the vice-chairman. The Institute also 
wishes to commend the efforts of the subcontractors, the Building Officials and Code Administrators,
International (BOCA), the Southern Building Code Congress Intenational (SBCCI), the International 
Conference of Building Officials (ICB'O),,the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the 
National Conference of States on Building Codes and Standards (NCSBCS), which contributed to reportdrafts for the project committee's review. The project committee members.and subcontractors are listed 

in the appendix of the report 

The Institute acepts the recommendations of the Flood Standards Project Committee and approves their 
dissemination to te Federal Emergency Management Agency for implementation and to the public. 

Robert C. Gibson, P.E.
Chairman of the Board President


i 


TABLE OF CONTENTS


Abstract .................................................... Vi 
Introduction ................................................... I 
Chapter 
Background ................................................... 3 
Chapter 2 
List of Study Codes and Standards......... .......................... . 7 
Chapter 3 
Summary of Issues ................................................... 9 
Chapter 4 
Recommended Changes to FEMA Documents ........... 17 
Recommended Changes to FEMA Documents 
Based on the BOCA National Codes . .........4A-1 
Recommended Changes to FEMA Documents 
Based on the SBCCI Standard Codes . .........4B-I 
Recommended Changes to FEMA Documents 
Basd on te ICBO Uniform Codes. .........4C-1 
Recommended Changes to FEMA Documents 
Based on the NFPA Standards . .........4D -1 
Recommended Changes to FEMA Documents 
Based on the Manufactured Housing 
Codes and Standards. .........4E-1 
Recmmended Changes to FEMA Documents 
Based on the CABO One and Two 
Family Dwelling Code. 4F-1 ........ 
Chaptei 
Recommended Code Change Language. 19 ..................... 

i..i. 


Recommended Changes to the 
BOCA National Codes . .............................. SA-I 

Recommended Changes to the 
SBCCI Standard Codes ............................. 5B-1 

Recommended Changes to the 
ICBO Uniform Codes ....... ............. 5C-I 

Recommended Changes to the

NFPA ...........:D...................... -


Standards 

Recommended Changes to Manufactured 
Housing Codes and Standards .................... :.. 5E-I 

Recommendations for the CABO 
One and Two Family Dwelling Code ...... ..... 0. .. F-l 

Appendix I 
Project Participants ............ . 21 

Appendix 2 

Acronyms..... :.... ... .... m....................... 23


Appendix 3 

Summaries of NFIP Flood Resistant Design 
Standards and Technical Guidance Documents .. 25 

Appendix 4 
Summaries of Model Codes and Standards . 29 

Appendix A 
Comparison between the BOCA National Codes 
and the NFIP Standards and Technical Guidelines ... 35 
Table of Contents .............. ................... A-i 

Appendix B 
Comparison between the SBCCI Standard Codes 
and the NEIP Standards and Technical Guidelines .................. ........... 37 
Table of Contents .................................. B-i 

iv 


Appendix C 
Comparison between the ICBO Uniform Codes 
and the NFW Standards and Technical Guidelines ............................. 39 
Table of Contents ...................... C-i 
Appendix D 
Comparison between the NFPA Standards and the 
NFIP Standards and Technical Guidelines ............................ 41 
Table of Contents ............ ................ D-i 
Appendix E 
-
Comparison between the Manufactured Housing 
Codes and Standards the W StandardsandTechnicalGuidelines........... . . . 43 ........................ 
Table of Contents ................................ E-i 
Appendix F 
Comparison between e CABO One and Two Family 
Dwelling Code and the NFP Standards 
and Technical Guidelines . ...................................... 45 
Table of Contents ................................ F-i 

V



ABSTRACT


This study evaluates the compatibility of flood loss reduction standards of the National Flood InsuranceProgram (NFEP)with the construction standards for seismic, fire, and wind hazards that now appear in 

nationally recognized model building codes and standards and identifies those that are in conflict. 
Changes to the NEP standardsand technical guidelines and code change language for model codes and 
standards are recommended to resolve identified incompatibilities. 

Keywords: codes, floods, guidelines, regulations, standards 

Vin. 


INTRODUION 

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the compatibility of flood loss reduction standards of the National 
Flood Insurance Program (NEW) with the construction standards for earthquake, fire, and wind hazards 
that now appear in the nation's model building codes and standards, and identify any that are in potential

conflict and recommend possible solutions. 

This study was performed by a project committee of volunteers from the public and private sectors of the 
building community, operating in accordance with NIBS' consensus procedures. The final report was 
prepared according to NIBS guidelines for preparing reports. During the course of the project the 
committee oversaw the preparation of comparisons between the NEW flood resistant design standards in44 CFR 59 and 60, and sixteen related technical guidance documents and twenty-three model code and 
standard documents. Based on these comparisons incompatibilities were identified and recommendations 
written to address those incompatibilities. The project committee was supported in its work by five model 
codes and standards organizations: the Building Officials and Code Administrators, International (BOCA),
the Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI), the International Conference of BuildingOfficials (ICBO), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the National Conference of States 

on Building Codes and Standards (NCSBCS). A list of project participants is provided in Appendix 1 of 
the report. 

Chapter 1 of this report provides background on the NFP flood program, and the FEMA documents and 

the model codes and standards utilized in the study. A -description of previous and future FEMA efforts 
for promoting compatibility between the FEMA documents and the model codes and standards is also 
provided. 

Chapter 2 lists 23 model code/standards and 22 FEMA/NFIP publications reviewed for this study.
Although this chapter lists 22 NEW documents, one of the technical guidance documents (EMA-15) and 
two of the technical bulletins (86-1 and 90-I) were not used in the comparisons for reasons cited in 

Appendix 1. Interpretative correspondence was reviewed only to clarify aspects of NFW documents in 
the project. The model codes and standards are organized under six major code group headings: the 

4e 

BOCA National Codes, the Standard Codes, the Uniform Codes, the NFPA Standards, the Manufactured 
Housing Codes and Standards, and the CABO I & 2 Family Dwelling Code. 

7% In Chapter 3 of the report is an overview summary of the major issues underlying incompatibilities.
identified in the evaluation of FEMA documents and the model codes and standards. This evaluation 

consists of comparisons of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) documents with the BOCA 

National codes, the Standard codes, the Uniform codes, the NPA standards, the manufactured housing

codes and standards, and the CABO 1 & 2 Family Dwelling Code. These comparisons are found in 

Appendices A through F of this report. Issues in the chapter are categorized by the code groups described 

above. For each comparison issues concerning the model codes and standards are listed first followed by 

issues for the FEMA documents. 

Chapter 4 contains the recommendations for changes to NFP standards and technical guidelines. The 
chapter is organized into six sections, 4A through 4F, by the same major groups of model codes and 
standards found in Chapters 2 and 3. Recommendations in each section are organized by the model codes 
and standards as listed in Chapter 2 under each major codeheading. The name of the particular code or 
standard on which each recommendation is based (even if the issue in the recommendation is not directly 

I.

addressed in the document), is found on the right-hand side of the page above the text describing the 
recommendation. The corresponding NFIP documents which were compared with the model code or 
standard in the development of the recommendation are listed on the left-hand side of the page. Below 
each recommendation is a reference to the page and paragraph in the comparisons found in Appendices 
A through F. 

Chapter 5 contains code change language for resolving incompatibilities between the NFIP standards and 
technical guidelines and the model codes and standards. Like Chapter 4, this chapter is also organized 
into six sections, 5A through SF, by the same groups of major model codes and standards found in 
Chapters 2 and 3. Recommendations in each section, however, are organized by the NFIP documents as 
listed in Chapter 2. The name of the particular NFIP document on which each code language change is 
based, is found on the left-hand column on the page above the text describing the code change. Passages 
in the model code or standard which are affected by the code change are listed in the center column. The 
analysis supporting the code change is in the right-hand column. Each code change entry, including the 
referenced documents, the analysis and code change text has been taken verbatim from the comparisons 

in Appendices A through F. 

Appendix 1 lists the project committee members and consultants who participated in the study. Appendix 
2 is a glossary of acronyms found throughout the report. 

Appendix 3 is a general description of each FEMA and NFIP publication as they relate to the overall 
codes and standards development process. The considerable data in the publications concerning the NFIP 
program, site considerations, classification of -flood zones and other areas have not been included in the 
summaries. Instead, only the material utilized in the comparisons is briefly cited in the NFIP document 
summaries. 

Appendix 4 is a general description of the content of each model code/standard publication. 

Appendix A contains the comparison between the family of BOCA Codes and the NFIP standards and 
technical guidelines. 

Appendix B contains the comparison between the family of Standard Codes and the NFE? standards and 
technical guidelines. 

Appendix C contains the comparison between the family of Uniform Codes and the NIP standards and 
technical guidelines. 

Appendix D contains the comparison between the NFPA standards and the NFIP standards and technical 
guidelines. 

Appendix E contains the comparison between the manufactured housing codes and standards and the NFIP 
standards and technical guidelines. 

Appendix F contains the comparison between the CABO 1 & 2 Family Dwelling Code and the NFIP 
standards and technical guidelines. 

2



CHAPTER 1 

BACKGROUND 

NFIP Standards and Technical Guidelines 

The National Flood Insurance Program (NEP) was created by Congress in 1968 to provide federallybacked flood insurance coverage since it was generally unavailable from private insurae companies. 
The NFEWwas also intended to reduce future flood losses by ensuring that new development is adequately 
protected rom flood damages. The NFEP is based on a mutual agreement with communities that have 
been identified as flood-prone. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which is the 
agency charged with administering the program, makes flood insurance available throughout a community 

provided that the community adopts and enforces adequate floodplain management regulations that meet 
the minimum requirements of the NEW. This is accomplished through a local floodplain managementordinance which must either meet or exceed the minimum NEW criteria. These minimum criteria are 
located in 44 CFR 60.3 and 60.6, and they establish design performance standards for buildings located 
in Special Flood Hazard Areas that specify how a structure should be constucted in order to reduce or 
eliminate the potential for flood damage. 

To assist in the application of these requirements by the building community, which includes building 
code officials, local building officials, engineers, architects, builders, developers, and the general public,
FEMA has developed technical guidance manuals and informational materials for public distribution. 
These materials contain guidelines that specify the use of certain techniques and materials for design and 

construction which will meet the intent of the NFP general performance criteria for flood damage resistant 
construction. hese publications report what is considered to be standard practice for flood resistant 
design and construction techniques. 

The NFW technical guidance documents have been written within the previous fifteen years either inhouse 

or under FEMA contract with various architects, engineers, and private organizations. As a result, the 
NFW documents vary in approach and level of technical detail. For example, it appears that the Coastal 
Construction Manual which emphasizes wood superstructure was written from an architect's point of view. 
Floodproofin2 Non-Residential Structures which emphasizes foundation systems appears to have been 

written from the vantage point of an engineer. In terms of technical detail different levels of information 
are related for the same construction types. For example, some publications give rules of thumb while 
others offer structural tablest Finally, referencing between documents tends to be broad in scope and 
duplicates information. Chapter 2 lists 22 NEW documents reviewed in the study, however, three were 
not used in the comparisons for reasons cited in Chapter 3. 

Model Codes and Standards 

The model codes and standards have been developed by consensus over a period of years under the 
auspices of the organizations (i.e. CABO, BOCA, SBCICLICBO, NPA and ANSI) which promulgate the 
written documents. 

The three national model codes are: BOCA National Building Code, which is a product of the BuildingOfficials and Code Administrators (BOCA), and is generally adopted by eastern and mid-western States; 
Standard Building Code, which is a product of the Southern Building Code Congress International 

(SBCCI), and is generally adopted by southern States, and; Uniform Building Code, which is a product 
of the International Council of Building Officials (ICEBO),and is generally adopted by western States. 

3 


In addition, there is a fourth model building code known as the CABO (Council of American Building 
Officials) One and Two Family Dwelling Code. This model code is used in various parts of the country 
for residential structures. 

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Life Safety Code is adopted in many areas of the 
country. The NFPA National Electrical Code is a national standard referenced by each of the three model 
codes. 

These documents follow standardized formats for content and references, and within the families of codes 

(i.e. National, Standard and Uniform) the documents reference one another without duplicating 
information. For example, information on mechanical systems is found in exclusively the Standard 
Mechanical Code. he Standard Buildin Co y addresses construction which comes in contact with 
mechanical systems. 
The manufactured housing codes and standards have their origins in a Federal program. The HUD 
Handbook 4930.3 and the Manufactured Housing Construction Safety Standards (MHCSS), are 
promulgated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The third, the Manufactured 
Housing Installation Manual (MHIM), written by the Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI), is designed 
to reference 4930.3 and the MHCSS. These documents contrast in origin with model building codes and 
NFPA documents which are promulgated by consensus based organizations. Such organizations are part 
of the Board for the Coordination of the Model Codes (BCMC) process which has coordinated each of 
these codes in many areas in the last ten years. 

The other documents in the manufactured housing code comparison, ANSI A225.1, Appendix C of the 

CABO 1 & 2 Family Dwelling Code, and NFPA S01A are either part of the families of the model codes 
or in the ANSI standard's case is referenced by the model codes. A list of the model codes and standards 
referenced in this study is found in Chapter 2. 

NFIPStandards and the Model Codes 

FEMA has undertaken a multi-year effort to incorporate the NFIP flood damage resistant design standards 
into the nation's model building codes, which are then adopted by either States or local communities. 

This effort involved the extraction of specific building criteria from the NFIP floodplain management 
requirements (44 CFR Parts 59 and 60) and revising the language into a code format. This language was 
then submitted to the model building code groups as a proposed code change. The code change process 
consists of a recommendation for approval or disapproval by a code change panel at an annual code 
change hearing, followed by a vote by eligible model code members at an annual conference. FEMA's 
approach to this process has involved either working directly with the code organization or closely 

coordinating with State and local officials to submit the code change proposals. 

As of this date, two model building code groups have accepted and published extensive sections of the 
NFIP floodplain management regulations that pertain to building standards. A third has recently accepted 
flood related language. 

4



The BOCA National Building Code has already adopted the majorityof the NEW building regulations into 

the main body of its Building Code, as well as in the BOCA Mechanical, Plumbing and Fire Prevention 

Codes. The Building Code language is presently located under Section 2101.6. The title of Article 21 

is Exterior Walls with Section 2101 entitled Performance Requirements, Exterior Walls. There are several 

administrative and land use sections of the NFIP regulations that are not covered by the BOCA Code. 

Because this language is located in the main body of the Building Code, it is unlikely that they can all 

be included. 

The Standard Building Code (SBCCI) is the only model building code that has adopted all of the NFIP 
regulations. This is the result of a series of code changes submitted in 1986 and 1988. This language 
is located in a separate standard, the Standard For loodplain Management (1989 Edition), and is 
referenced in the Standard Building Code under Section 1209. The Standard for Floodplain Management 
has been reviewed by FEMA Regions V and VI and they have accepted it as a satisfactory alternative 
to their model ordinances. This is possible because this language is located in a separate Standard, 
although as a separate, it must be purchased and adopted independenty. 

The Uniform Building Code (ICBO) recently added flood resistant design standards in an appendix 
chapter. he language is similar to that of the BOCA Code in that it only covers the construction related 
requirements of the NFI. e code language was submitted by the ICBO's High Wind/Hurricane 
Committee, and was based on a 1988 code proposal that was submitted by the State of California, 
Department of Water Resources and FEMA. 

The purpose for FEMA involvement with the model building codes is that with the NFIP design 
requirements in the building codes, they have become more accessible, more credible, and easier to use 
and enforce by the building community. The same kind of involvement has not yet occurred with the 
organizations promulgating the NFPA standards and the manufactured housing codes and standards. 

Future Directions 

The nation's floodplains continue to be the site of significant amounts of new construction as well as the 
rehabilitation of existing buildings. In order for the NFP to accomplish its goal of reducing the nation's 
flood losses, FEMA must encourage building practices that minimize flood damage to buildings located 
in flood-prone areas. At the same ime, FEMA must ensure that tere will not be any negative impact 
from these flood resistant design standards on the model building codes and the standards that they use 
to protect structures from other ypes of natural and man-made hazards. 

Future efforts by FEMA to work with the model code groups is evolving. FEMA will continue to work 
with individual model code groups to place as much of the NFP floodplain management standards as 
possible into the model building codes. A possible future initiative is the development of a consensus 
standard through a nationally recognized standards organization. The advantages to this action are that 
a national consensus standard is more credible and the same code language would then exist nationwide. 
FEMA has proposed that the American Society of Civil Engineers form a Flood Damage Resistant Design 
Standards Committee. One of the purposes of the committee will be the development of design standard 
guidelines for flood resistant construction through a consensus process. Tis will be an initial step leading 
to the development of consensus standards. FEMA also intends to interact with the Department of 

Housing and Urban Development to coordinate HUD documents with flood resistant standards and 
technical guidelines. 

5 


CHAPTER 2
LIST OF STUDY CODES AND STANDARDS


The FEMA and NFIP flood resistant design standards and technical guidelines listed in this report include:


1. National Flood Insurance Program Regulations for Floodplain Management and Flood 
Hazard Identification 
(44 CFR 59.1, 60.3 and 60.6) 

2. Coastal Construction Manual (FEMA-55) 

3. Elevated Residential Structures (FEMA-54) 

4. Retrofitting Flood Prone Residential Structures 
(FEMA-1 14) 

5. Floodproofing Non-Residential Structures (FEMA-102) 

6. Manufactured Home Installation in Flood Hazard Areas (FEMA-85) 

7. Alluvial Fans: Hazards and Management FEMA-165) 

8. Design Guidelines for Flood Damage Reduction (FEMA-15) 

9. Manual for the Construction of Residential Basements in Non-Coastal Flood Environs 

10. Technical Standards Bulletins: 
Wet Floodproofing, No. 85-1 
Foundation Wall Openings, No. 85-2 
Breakaway Walls, No. 85-3 
Hurricane Damage Patterns: A Focus on Pile 
Foundations, No. 86-1 
Wind Design Standards and the NFIP, No. 88-1 
Flood Resistant Materials, No. 88-2 
Free of Obstruction Requirement in Coastal High 
Hazard Areas, No. 88-3 
Protection of Elevator Equipment in Flood Hazard 
Areas, No. 88-4 
NFIP Pile or Column Requirement in Coastal High 
Hazard Areas, No. 90-1 
NFIP Requirements for Below Grade Parling Garages in 
Flood Hazard Areas, No. 90-2 
Non-Residential Floodproofing Certification 
Requirements of the National Flood Insurance 
Program, No. 90-3 
Installation of Manufactured Homes in Special Flood 
Hazard Areas, No. 90-4 

11. Interpretative correspondence. 

7



Model codes and standards which contain provisions for seismic, fire, and wind hazards include: 

National Codes (BOCA): : 

1. 1990 BOCA National Building Code 
2. 1990 BOCA National Fire Prevention Code 
3. 1990 BOCA National Mechanical Code 
4. 1990 BOCA National Plumbing Code 
5. 1990 BOCA Property Maintenance Code 
Standard Codes (SBCCI): 

6. 1991 Standard Building Code 
7. 1989 Standard for Flood Plain Management 
8. 1991 Standard Mechanical Code 
9. 1991 Standard Gas Code: 
10. 1991 Standard Plumbing Code 
Uniform Codes (ICBO): 

11. 1991 Uniform Building Code 
12. 1991 Uniform Mechanical Code 
13. 1991 Uniform Plumbing Code 
NFPA Standards: 

14. NFPA 101 -1991 Life Safety Code 
15. NFPA 70 -1990 National Electrical Code 
16. NFPA 54 -1988 National Fuel Gas Code 
17. NFPA 58 -1989 Standard for the Storage and Handling of Liquified Petroleum Gases 
Manufactured Housing Codes and Standards: 

18. ANSI A225.1-87, Manufactured Home Installations 
19. HUD Manufactured Home Construction and Safety 
Standards, Part 3280 with interpretative 
bulletins 

20. Permanent Foundations Guide for Manufactured
Housing, 4930.3
21. Model Manufactured Home Installation Manual 
22. NFPA SOlA -1987 Standard for Firesafety Criteria
for Manufacture Home Installations, Sites
and Communities
CABO I & 2 Family Dwelling Code: 

23. 1989 CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code with 1990/1991 amendments 
8 

CHAPTER 3
SUMMARY OF ISSUES


An Overview of issue 

From a survey of the comparisons of NFP standards and technical guidelines with the seismic, wind and 
fire safety provisions in the model codes and standards, it is apparent that issues leading to 
recommendations for changes to each of the model codes and standards vary with each code,.while issues 
for the NFW documents cluster into several recognizable themes. 

In the comparison between the FEMA documents and the BOCA National Building Code, BOCA raised 
issues for its code that concern the means and methods of consurucdon. Issues identified by SBCCi for 
the Standard Building Code reflect concerns with mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. As with 
BOCA's comparison, issues identified for the Uniform Building Code center around construction means 

and methods. Both comparisons address corrosion of masonry, design of anchors, and design loads for 
breakaway walls. The NFPA comparison raised no issues in regard to amending its own codes. The 
comparison with manufactured housing codes and standards identified issues similar to the model code 
issues including the need to reference NEIWdocuments, utility protection, provisions for floodwalls and 
anchorage design criteria. ¶be CABO 1 & 2 Family Dwelling comparison raised issues regarding the 
equalization of hydrostatic forces, and corrosion protection. 

For FEMA documents the list of issues raised is considerably longer and displays ten themes which three 
or more code comparisons identified. Although each comparison presents these issues in different ways 
and suggests varying courses of action, the topic for each can be stated uniformly as follows: 

1. Requiring a geotechnical report for any structural element bearing on soil including piers 
and piles 
2. Coordinating wind loads and wind maps and
referencing ASCE 788
3. Accounting for snow loads in design 
4. Accounting for seismic loads in design 
5. Supplying appropriate design values for various types of construction including wood 
construction, roof to wall connections, and floor beams to pile connections 
6. Altemate means of construction, for example, types of shear walls., or wood post for 
pilings 
7. Defining anchorage requirements 
8. Application of wood preservatives, use of naturally durable wood and referencing ASTM 
standards 
9 


9. Load requirements for breakaway walls. 
10. Occupancy in basements below the BFE 
In addition to these ten, there are numerous other issues concerning the FEMA documents identified in 
at least two of the comparisons. This does not necessarily mean they are less important than the ten issues 
identified in three or more comparisons. For example: 

o Protection of electrical utilities was cited by both NFPA standards and the Standard 
Building Code comparisons. 
o Use of registered professionals for design was cited in the BOCA National Building Code 
and the Uniform Building Code comparisons. 
o Several common issues were defined by the Standard Building Code and CABO 1 & 2 
Family Dwelling Code comparisons including: 
- Requirements for nailing and splicing 

- Stud length 

-- Wind criteria for wall sheathing 

- Additional moment in piles produced by knee braces 

- Wind loads for windows and shutters 

A third category includes the issues addressed by only one code group. For example, the comparison of 
manufactured housing codes and standards addresses FEMA's use of ground anchors. Other such issues 
are listed separately for each of the code comparisons below. 

National Codes (BOCA) 

As stated in the background chapter, the BOCA National Building Code has already adopted the majority 
of the NFIP building regulations into the main body of its Building Code as well as in the BOCA 
Mechanical, Plumbing and Fire Prevention Codes. Consequently, the comparison between the National 
Building Code and the NFIP standards and technical guidelines has resulted in a "check-off' list of final 
items to be reconciled. 

For the BOCA National Building Code this list includes: 

Design loads for breakaway walls
Use of fill
Corrosion protection for concrete and masonry
Scour around piles
Use of exterior plywood in subflooring
Flood water loads
Uplift and lateral forces for anchorage


10 


Performance of interior wall finishes
Elevator equipment above the BFE


For the FEMA documents this list includes: 

Requiring a geotechnical report for piers
Importance factor in wind forces
Corrosion protection for concrete and masonry
Use of registered professionals for tall structures
Application of wood preservatives
Wood posts
Roof design tables for sheathing and ponding
Design values for roof to wall connections
Footing design
Snow and wind loads
Reference standards for wood foundations
Including live loads in buoyancy considerations
Impact loads
Structural calculations for reinforced concrete slabs
Occupancy in basements below the BFE


In the above list of issues identified for FEMA documents, corrosion protection for concrete and masonry 
was the only issue unique to this comparison. 

Standard Codes (SBCCI) 

According to the background chapter, the Standard Building Code is the only model building code chat 
has adopted all of the NIFP regulations. However, for its own code, SBCCI recognized outstanding issues 
related to mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. For FEMA documents the comparison produced 
the longest list of suggested changes in relation to the other comparisons. Like the BOCA comparison, 
many of ie suggested recommendations deal with construction means and methods. 

Issues related to the Standard Building Code include: 

Referencing FEMA documents for elevation of mechanical equipment and utilities 
Referencing the Standard for Floodplain Management for mechanical and gas equipment. 
tank, utilities and elevator equipment installations 
Uplift of storage anks 
Sump and ejector pumps where gravity drainage is available 
Air valves below the BFE 
Referencing the Standard forFloodplain Management for plumbing, sewer and storm drain 
backflow valves and potable water protection 

Issues related to the FEMA documents are: 

Twelve foot spacing of concrete piers
Alternate means of construction for shear walls
Anchorage requirements


11 


Nailing and splicing requirements
Use of naturally durable wood
Snow and seismic loads
Velocity pressures for tall structures
Referencing ASTM standards for wood preservation
Referencing ACI standards for masonry and concrete
Soils investigations for design of piles


Stud length
Wind criteria for wall sheathing
Additional moment in piles producedby knee braces
Wind loads for windows and shutters


Reference ASCE 7-88 for wind loads 
Toe-nailing 
Considerations for design of wood construction 
Particle board for sheathing 
Exposed ductwork 
Referencing codes for exhaust installation clearances 
Referencing codes for utility clearances 
Acquiring building permits 
Deletion of rule of thumb for floor beams 
Clarifying design requirements for footings 
Addressing wave impact on utilities 
Providing parameters for substantial improvement of a structure 
Occupancy in basements below the BFE 

Issues related to both sets of documents are: 

Manufactured housing in floodways and coastal high hazard areas 
Consistency of criteria for residential and non-residential buildings 

The issues related to both sets of documents are unique to this comparison. In the above list of issues 
identified for FEMA documents, toe-nailing and providing parameters for substantial improvement of a 
structure were the only issues unique to this comparison. 

Unifonn Codes (CBO) 

As stated in the background chapter, the Uniform Building Code recently added flood resistant design 
standards in an appendix chapter. The language is similar to that of the BOCA Code in that it only covers 
the construction related requirements of the NFIP. Despite the similarity of the UBC appendix to the 
flood provisions in BOCA, the UBC comparison raises a number of different issues. In addition, the UBC 
comparison identifies seven thematic issues which appear repeatedly in its recommendations for changes 
to FEMA documents. The first relates to issues identified by BOCA, the second and third relate to issues 
identified by BOCA, SBCCI and other comparisons. The next three issues are unique to this comparison. 
The last issue on referencing local codes was echoed by SBCCI, but for different building components. 

12



ICBO's hematic issues are: 

For the design of any type of structure, or structural member a registered architect or engineer 
should be utilized. 

o For any structural element bearing on soil, the design should be based on a geotechnical report 
prepared by a soils engineer. 
o Where the FEMA documents specify a certain type of construction, other means of consruction 
should be allowed as long as technical criteria for flood hazard reduction is satisfied. 
o FEMA documents sould emphasize that examples of design calculations are only examples. 
o Specific manufacturers products should not be specified in FEMA documents. 
o Standards referenced in the FEMIA documents should represent the latest edition. 
o FEMA should reference local codes where applicable. 
In addition the comparison raises singular issues for the both the UBC and the FEMA documents. For 

the UBC these issues are: 
The flood zones where UBC allows elevated structures 
Use of a national standard to define a manufactured home 
Leakage through windows 
Corrosion of masonry and metals 
Protection of openings above the BEE 
Wind design velocities for anchors 
Design considerations for floodwalis 
Water penetration criteria for sealants 
Higher design loads for breakaway walls 

For FEMA documents these issues are: 

Protection of wood
Use of only piles in coastal high hazard zones
Use of wood shear walls
Consideration of lateral loads for all structures
Design tables based on materials, not connections
Loadng criteria for fasteners of breakaway walls
Definition of grade should conform to UBC
War penetration criteria for sealants.
Occupancy i basements below the BFE


In regard to breakaway walls, the comparison identifies some significant conflicts between the UBC and 
the FEMA documents in regard to use of space below the BFE. According to ICBO, the FEMA 
documents should not allow parking without breakaway wall, and allow temporary storage. This and the 
following issues for FEMA documents are unique to the ICBO comparison 

13 


Definition of grade should conform to UBC
Water penetration criteria for sealants


NFPA Standards 

The NFPA comparison represents possibly the first evaluation of documents written for protection from 
flood hazards in relation to those written for protection from fire hazards. Because of the focused nature 
for the NFPA standards, the number of issues identified in the comparison are less broad in scope than 
the comparisons involving model building codes. Issues identified for FEMA documents center around 
protection of electrical systems, anchoring and maintenance of tanks, fire ratings for breakaway walls and 
water tight doors and maintenance of interior finishes for different occupancies as defined by the code. 
No issues were identified for the NFPA documents. 

For electrical systems, issues are as follows: 

Suitability for corrosive environments
Secure fastening of service mounting
Sealing of underground installations against flooding


Locating switches and circuit breakers for accessibility 
Drainage for electrical systems installed below the BFE 
Grounded and labeled power outlets for pumps and motors 

Manufactured Housing Codes and Standards 

Like the NFPA standards, manufactured housing codes and standards have probably not been compared 
with documents written for protection from flood hazards. Despite the origin of manufactured housing 
codes and standards described in the background chapter, many of the results of this comparison are 
similar to the comparisons for the National, Standard, CABO 1 & 2 Family Dwelling, Uniform and NFPA 
codes. 

For 4930.3, the MHCSS and the MHIM, issues identified in the comparison regarding manufactured 
housing codes and standards are as follows: 

Addition of complete flood design criteria
Addition of provisions for floodwalls
Utility protection
Addition of option for floating structure
Referencing FEMA documents where necessary


For FEMA documents issues are: 

Clarifying limits of clay soil use 

Language on removable chassis
Alternate forms of construction
Load requirements for breakaway walls
Anchoring requirements
Use of ground anchors


14 


Referencing ANSI 58.1
Design stresses due to lateral movement


For both manufactured housing and FEMA documents, issues to reconcile are: 

Coordination of wind criteria
Definition of forces for anchorage
Loadrequirements for open foundations


For ANSI A225.1, Appendix C of the CABO 1 & 2 Family Dwelling Code, and NFPA 501A the issues 
identified in the comparison for these codes are as follows. 

Flood design criteria for extended wall foundations
Design requirements for anchorage
Referencing FEMA documents


For FEMA documents issues are: 

Designing piers per manufacturer's recommendations 
Provision for different concrete pier sizes 
Designing anchors per manufacturer's recommendations 

For both manufactured housing related model codes and standards and FEMA documents, issues to 
reconcile are: 

Coordination of wind criteria
Correction of pier footings for scouring
Design loads
Anchoring requirements
Referencing ANSI 58.1


In the above list of issues identified for FEMA documents, the following issues were unique to this 
comparison: 

Clarifying limits of clay soil use
Language on removable chassis


CABO 1 & 2 Family Dwelling Code 

This comparison identified two issues related to the CABO I & 2 Family Dwelling Code. For FEMA 
documents, the list of issues is similar in length and content to the Standard Building Code comparison. 

The issue related to the CABO 1 & 2 Family Dwelling Code is: 

equalization of hydrostatic forces
Corrosion protection


15 


Issues related to the FEMA documents are: 

Expansion of the definition of manufactured housing of include dimensional parameters 

Snow and seismic loads 

Reference ASCE 7-88 for wind loads 

Alternate means of construction for shear walls 

Anchorage requirements 

Nailing and splicing requirements 

Deletion of rule of thumb for cantilevers 

Use of naturally durable wood 

Velocity pressures for tall structures 

Referencing ASTM standards for wood preservation 

Referencing ACI standards for masonry and concrete 

Soils investigations for design of piles 

Stud length 

Wind criteria for wall sheathing 

Additional moment in piles produced by knee braces 

Wind loads for windows and shutters 

Lateral support for grade beams 

Design considerations for truss bracing 

Shear walls for pile foundations 

Design considerations for floor beams and piles 

Particle board for sheathing 

Updating wind maps 

Site preparation requirements 

vapor barrier requirements 

In the above list of issues identified for FEMA documents, the following issues were unique to this 
comparison: 

Expansion of the definition of manufactured housing of include dimensional parameters 

Lateral support for grade beams 

Shear walls for pile foundations 

Site preparation requirements 

vapor barrier requirements 

16



CHAPTER 4


RECOMMENDED CHANGES TO FEMA DOCUMENTS


17



Recommended Changes to FEMA Documents Based on the BOCA National Codes 

1. NFIlP 44 CFR 59.1 (Elevated buildings)i BOCA National Building CodeNflP 44 CFER60.3 ((c)(2), (c)(3), (e)(4), (e)(5), (e)(6)) 
FEMA should provide direction to the model codes concerning the need to include the subciassiflcation 

of flood zones (A1-30, AHN,etc.) and B, C, X and D zones versus the current zones (A and V) foundin the model codes. Upon resolution, changes to NFP regulations and code changes to BOCA could 
be considered. 

See Appendix, pages A-2: item 4; A-S: items 2, 3; A-6-items 1, 2 3. 

2. NFlP 44 CFR 59.1 (Breakaway wall) BOCA National Building'Code
NFIP 44 CFR 60.3 ((e)(5))
FEMA-55 (4.3.5.1, 4.3.5.2)


FEMA should conduct the necessary research to support the 10-20,psf design loading for breakaway

walls. A system designed in this load range may breakaway under a design wind condition. Uponresolution of this issue, it would then be appropriate to prepare a code change which reflects the results 
of the research as design criteria to be included in NFIP regulations and BOCA. 

See Appendix, pages A-1: item 4; A-6: item 2, A-26: item 2; A-2: item 1. 

3. NFIP 44 CFR 60.3 ((e)(5)) BOCA National Building CodeFEMA-55 (43.35.1) 
FEMA may wish to clarify that break-away walls are allowed in A-zones provided the opening criteriais met. This would also be a viable option under the alternative approval provisi>>-sof BOCA. 

See Appendix, pages A-6: item 2; A-26: item 2. 

4. NFIP 44 CFR 59.1 (Substantial improvement) BOCA National Building Code 
The term 'substantial improvement' used in FEMA is based on 50% of market value while OCAs 
reconstruction or restoration provisions are a function of 50% of replacement cost. FEMA to evaluate

whether the criteria to determine compliance should be based on market value" or replacement cost". 

See Appendix, page A-4: item 6. 

5. FEMA-54 (Piers) BOCA National Building Code 
FEMA-55 (43.1.1, Appendix D) 
FEMA should require soil testing and a geotechnical report prior to the placement of foundations to 
ensure sufficient load bearing, capacity of the soil. 

See Appendix, pages A-10: item 1; A-18: item 2; A-34: item 2. 

6. FEMA-54 (Pier foundation connections) BOCA National Building Code 
FEMA-114 (3.13) 
Anchor bolt embedment differ slightly between BOCA and FEMA. If viewed as a conflict, FEMA 
would need to conduct an evaluation of the relevant standards to determine if a "correct" embedment 
can be ascertained. 

See Appendix, pages A-10: item 3; A-48: item 3. 

4A-1



7. FEMA-55 (4.11) BOCANational Building Code 
It is recommended that FEMA revise its importance factor for wind from Lll to L5 for all buildig 
other thanssetial failities and assembly buildin with l than 300 occpns is will bring the 
importance factors into correlation with ANSI AME/ASCE 7-82 which is referenced by BOCA. 

See Appendix, pageA-14: item 2. 

8. FEMA-54 tBuilding materials) BOCA National Buildig Code 
EM-55 (4.12,422, 423.1, 4232, 4233, 432-4) BOCA National Fare Prevention Code 
It is recommended that FEMA include a ee P to addressmoisture protection. Suggsted 
language is: Costruction iliclug nnci shallbe resistant to water damage si that 
conditions of corrosion, deterioration or decay will not oc: 

S ppendi, pages A-l item 2; A-.-item 1; A-14: item 3; A-17: i 2, 3, 4, ; A-20-. item 4: 
A-M. itm L. 

9. FEMA-55 (4.L4) .BOCA National Building Code 
Regtat laws for engineers and architects vary from state to state and FEMA should acpowledge
these l;w,
See Appendix, page A-1S: item 3.


10. FEMA-55 (4.L4) BOCA Natiial Building Code 
The requirements for professional registration (V-zoe) require correlation with the NFIP regulations.
See Appendix, page A-IS: item 3.
FEMA-55 (42.13) BOCA National Building Code


Mai Z pno are eitical integrity of a building but so are joists and other


members to thesctnal 

elements. It is not clear whyFEMA only requires certainstructural elements to be 
preservative treated.. FEMA should revise Its' eriteria to meudea requirement for pressure preservative 
treaet folrall: strcua mer subectto flodng 

See Appendix,pa A-16: item 4. 

12. F -54 (Builing m BOCA National Building Code 
PEM-SS(42.1.4,S.2 : 

FEMA-02 (a Fer P 

FEMA siould reference the apppriate fr t u prerative treatment of wood. 
These includeAWPA C14-UC.89and C985 for abovegrade cinsrction and AWPA C3-9, C4-89, 
AWPB MP143, MP241% and MP-88 for timber pileL Preservatives should conform to AWPA P149, 
P249, P549, P849,and P9.87. Wood used in foimdatn sld conform to AWPB-FDN-8& 

See A4 , pag A-km 2; A-11 item 1; A-17: em 1; A-31 kem 3; A-43: m 1. 

13. FEMA-SS (4313) BOCA National Building Code 
MCRB(I;Al) 
it seems overly.restrictive to preclude the use of a buligmaterial If adequately desipned wood posts 
(FEMA-55) or unreinforced masonry (MCRB) ould bc acceptabl. It as recommended 

that FEMA relax their of material ps in favor of a destgned system of material of

'td 

the designers choice when such can be shown to be suitable for their intended use. 

See Appendi, pages A-19. item 2; A-54: item L 

4A-2 


14. FEMA-55 (43.8) BOCA National Building Code 
FEMA should include deattables for the mazimum span of roof leathki u will as pondingprovides for the ds and low-slope rook Alternatvely, FEMA e ference the model

rco

codes for roof sat i tablet
See Appendh page A-fl: item L


15. FEMA-55 (433.4) BOCA National Building Code 
FEMA should revise their proons to include a prohibition of shear or other waillswhich are part ofthe uural fime belowthe BEE in V-zones. 

SeeAppend page A-24: item 2. 

16. FEMA-55 (3.4.1) BOCA National, Building Code
FEMA-I5 (Chapter V Part A)
itis rcmeddthat FEMA reference the wind and snow desip values of ANSI A58.1/ASCE 7-a.


See Appendiz, pages A-24: em 4; A-39. item 2. 

17. FEMA-55 (43.44) BOCA National BuilWdg Code 
FEMAl should reference the desin standard for wod, name, NFoPA NDS-1986 with 1987 rsons
and 1988Spment -Deip Values for Wood Consrnon.
See Appendi, pag A-25: iem 3.


18. FEMA-55 (43.2) BOCA National Building Code 
FEMA shouldeteie the apprjiat performancecriteriaforstorm shuters andstipulatewhena 
what This : considered by BOA.

type arerequired. b 
See Appendz; page A-23 item L


19. FEMA-5 (4337.4); BOCA National Bling Code 
FEMA should -the locations which require flashin
See Appendi page A-2 item 3


20. FEMA-54 (Building Matis and Wood, Steel,
Concrete and Masony) BOCA National Building Code
FEMA-55 (2 53)
MCRB (HL.A.%,MA4, mf.B.7k)


FEMA shouldreference the applicablestandarts for pI and reinforcd conctete desiA, AC 31andAC 
3L149, respectly. Cncrete materials and admizturesouldl conformto ASTM t6-STASTM CMUE andASTM C -89. Readyexonc shouldconformto ASTM C4S9b or ASfM 

See Appendix, pages A-item 2; A-1fl item 1 A-3 item 3 4: A-54: items 3 4 A-57: item 4. 

2L FEMA5 (Caipter MPH!) BOCA NationalBuildig Code 
FEMA-1O (Chapter m Part B) 
FEMA-85 and -M require coordinationwith the NW regulationsrlative to the use of suural Il

in V-zones NP it V-Zons.

regulations do not pm fill 
See Append, page A37: item 1; A-C item 3.


4A-3 


22. FEMA45 (Chapter M-Elevated foundations) BOCA National Building Code 
pier e restritions differ slightly between BOCA and FEMA. f viewed as a conflict, FEMA would 
need to an evaluationof the relevant standards to determine if a correct pier height can be 

See AppendixWpag A-37: item 2.: 

2. FEMA-85 (Chapter IV D) BOCA National Building Code 
It is not dear how the recommend-ton found in FEMA would be implemented relative to providing 
a mean of evacuation and/or rescue during a flood event. In all lilelihood, compliance with these 
would preclude a structure fim being built in an area prone to flooding. FEMA to 
evaluae 

See Appen6 pag A-4L itm L: 

24. FEMA-102 (M na) BOCA National Building Code 
FEMA should evaluate how the proisions in FEMA-102 conelate with the NFrequirements relative 
to substan impove ts
Se dir, page A-44: item L


25. FEMA-1D2 (Appendix D Part B) BOCA National Building Code 
MCB (iC4& V.B.LLB.4) 
FEMA should dat for floodwater depth and velocity for use inhydrostatic and 
hyod l This w d u the conditions of food water veloct, erosion, 

sedimet, deph andwatershed hydroly. l o suchdata exists,a research effort shouldbe uderak 
to c datas the basi to develop specific hydrodynamic design loads for incorporation into 
ASCB 7. 

See Appendi, pages A-46: im 3; A-60: item 3; A-2 itm 4; A-66i . 

26. FEMA-114 (3!5) BOCA National Building Code 
FEMA-U4 reuir a rvWon to cbrif when opening to equalke floodwatersare required ( )
Veru breakaway wal (V-Z )e)
S Appendix, page A-4& item L


27. FEMA-U4 (6.5) BOCA National Building Code 
(B

FEMA-54 ateal)

MCRB(U~Li, mA2) f-

FEM" uma referencete current masony standard for uneinforced and reinforced masonry,AO 
/ASCE5-S Masony moar should conform to ASTM C27-88 

See Appef pgs A-M item 2; A-2 item 1, A-49 item 3; A-4: items 1, 2 
28 MCB (MA.6) BOCA National BuildingCode 
FEMA should review the ref ced sandard for wood founations (FoPA TR747) to dtemine 
aplability to flooded conitions 
See Appendi A-55: item L 

4A-4 


29. MCRB IB(U .4) BOCA National Building Code 
The FEMA MCRB Manual discusses the design and n of resdential basement walls 

subjecsd to hyrostafic and hydrodynamic loads (Le., below the BFE). Under BOCA, residential 
basements sable for human occupancy are required to be above the BFE. The BOCA codes does not 
pemh the design pion for residential struclures with foo usable for hmn 

occpac below the B -this is acptable for all uses except residential FEMA NFIP 44C R 

60.3 (c)(2) also requires i basements) elevated to or above the base 
flood level -unless a varnance. is granted in acodnewith NFIF 44 CFR 60.6 Therefore, FEMA 
should carif the use of the MCRB with respec to residential basements. 
See Appendx pae A-56: item 3. 

30. MCRB (ILC.3) BOCA National Building Code 
FEMA should review the calculations relate to theinclusionof liveloadin buoyancy 

See Appendix, pag A-59 item 4. 

3L MCRB (IILC.5) BOCA National Building Code 

The bais for FMA's assertion that loads other than impac and debris will not appreciably alter the 
desipns requires bstantiatio Addouily, the FEMA MCRB Manual akes the 
position at debris is not considered but other documents such as FEMA-54 (pages 69-7) and FEMA


55 (Section 4.L3) require this type of loading to be evaluated FEMA needs to caify the effec this 
has on the use of the manual. 

See Appendix, pa A-6D iem 4. 

32. MCRB (VA.2.h) BOCA National Building Code 
FEMA presents an oversimplified view that a 6 inch dick reinforced slab is adequate (rebar size and 
placemient not deasmed). FEMA should eith provide a sries of presaiptv design solutions for a 
broad rangeof conditions or simply require srutural in ccordance with the current edition 

of A: 318-89. 

See Appendix, page A45-item 2. 

33. FEMA Technical Bulleti 5-3 esign Considerations) BOCA Natinal Bili Code 
The 8th sentence under Masonry wall? in 5-3 is probably i for most i This sentence 
ates Oce the pins fi the wall will cantiler with the bars at the bottom of the w4 
providing ditional rsisac to failue until the wal's capacity is reached What is more likly, is that 
a load ffient to cause the haflzz, inshear, at COnneing pins at the top of the wall, canbe epected

to result in an immediate ilure, in bending at te bottom We therefore recommend this statement 
be deleted modified. 

See Appe , pag A-72. item 3. 

4A-5



34. FEMA Tchnial Bulletin 88-2 (lood Resistant Materials) BOCA National Building Code 
FEMA-5S(4.34) 
FEMA shoud coudu the nessar research to indicate in 88-2 which of the matials referenced by 
of the BOCA National BuildingCode willwithstanddiret and prologed c tSeDM 212Z. 
by which significansmg is accessed 

flood watm without sutin'ing ignificant damage. The arie&i 

is espdaly nuportant to eaIsh S information cn then provide a technical basis for proposed 
An to themodd codes whichwill establish a regulatory basis for approving flood damage resistant 

Material. 

Soe Appendix, pages A-2 iem 4; A-74: item L 

, .~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

F 

4A-6



Rummended C~zangesto PEMA Documents Based on the SBCCI Standard Codes 

1. FEMA 54 (Pozts, Post Embedment, STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
Post Anchorage)
FEMA 55 43.3 Posts Wood)
FEMA 102 (I. C. 2 Posts)


FEMA 54, FEMA 102, and FEMA 55 should combine post foundations and pile foundations into one section with 
more prescriptive requirements. 

See Appendix, page BA, items 1-3
See Appendix, page B-12, item 3
See Appendix, page B-29, item 3


2. FEMA 54 (Shear Walls and Floor Diaphragms) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 54 should address the use of shear walls and floor diaphragms as a method of bracing but should permit 
the building designer to choose the method. 

See Appendix, page B-5, item 4 

3. FEMA 54 (Pier Foundation Connection) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 54 should provide wind load values or forces for which the anchorage is adequate. 

See Appendix, page B-5, item 

4. FEMA 54 (Floor Beams) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 (4Z1.2 Main Supporting Members) 
FEMA 54 and 'EMA 55 should provide better nailing and splice location requirements. 

See Appendix, page B-6, item 1
See Appendx page B-10, item 4


3. FEMA 54 (Cantilevers) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 54 should delete the "rule of thumb" or add better guidance for the design of the cantilever. 
See Appendix, page B-6, item 2 

6. FEMA 54 (Wood) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 54 should include "naturally durable wood."
See Appendix, page B-7, item 3


4B-1



7. FEMA 54 (Performance Criteria) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 (5.1 General Design Considerations)
FEMA 55 (G-7. Foundation Standards)
FEMA 55 (-8. Anchoring Standards)
FEMA 114 (3.14 Technical Design Criteria Open Foundations)


FEMA 114 (Appendix C -Forces) 

No. 85-2 (Flood Forces)
No. 85-3 (II Wind and Water Forces)
No. 88-1


FEMA 54, FEMA 55, FEMA 114, No. 85-2, No. 85-3, and No. 88-1 should address snow and seismic loads. The 
use of the phrases "unacceptable risks", "unacceptable health hazards", and "unacceptable magnitude are too 
subjective. FEMA 114, No. 85-3, and No. 88-1 should update the wind speed maps to the latest editions and 

address snow and seismic loads. SBC should address hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, and buoyancy forces in floodplain 
areas. 

See Appendix, page B-8, item 2 

See Appendix, page B-17, item 4 

See Appendix, page B-21, item 5 

See Appendix, page B-22, item 3 

See Appendix, page B-33, item 4 

See Appendix, page B-35, item 4 

See Appendix, page B-48, item i 

See Appendix, page B-49, item 1 

See Appendix, page B-50, item 1 

8. FEMA 55 (4.1.1 Wind) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 (G-6. Determination of Loading Forces) 
FEMA 55 (G-14. Reference Documents) 
FEMA 85 (Design of Elevated Foundations)
FEMA 114 (Appendix C -Forces)
No. 85-3 (II Wind and Water Forces)
No. 88.1


FEMA 55, No. 85-3, and No. 88-1 should update reference to ASCE 7-1988. FEMA 85 and 

HUD 's MHCSS should update the wind and snow loads to ASCE 7-88. FEMA 85, No. 85-3, and No. 88-1 should 
address seismic loads. FEMA 114 should update the wind speed maps to the latest editions and address snow and 
seismic loads. SBC should address hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, and buoyancy forces in floodplain areas. 

See Appendix, page B-9, item 1
See Appendix, page 21, item 4
See Appendix, page 25, item 3
See Appendix, page 27, item 1
See Appendix, page 35, item 4
See Appendix, page 49, item I
See Appeai, page 50, item 1


9. FEMA 55 (4.1.4 Effects of Forces STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
on Higher and Larger Structures) 
FEMA 55 should provide velocity pressures (psf) for varied wind speeds and building height. 

See Appendix, page B-10, item I 

4B-2



10. FEMA 55 (4 ?L1 Pilings Wood) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should provide additional information such as ASTM standard preservative treatment and allowable 
stresses of timber piles 
See Appendix, page B-10, item 3 

11. FEMA 55 (4.2.1.4 Wood Preservatives) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should list some of the AWPA standards. 

See Appendix, page B-1I, item 1 

* 12. FEMA 55 (42 Masonry Materials and Concrete) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should add references to ACI 318 and ACI/ASCE 530.
See Appendix, page B-11, item 2


13. FEMA 55 (4.3.1.2 iles) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should emphasize that type of pile, pile depth, and method of installation should be based on the soils 
investigation. 

See Appendix, page B-fl, item 2 

14. FEMA 55 (4.3.IA Piers) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should clarifythat the reinforcing, footing size, and grade beam, size should be based on the design forces. 
See Appendix, page B-12, item 4 
15. FEMA 55 (4.3.2.2 Beams) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should provide nailing requirements for built-up members.
See Appendix, page B-13, item 1


16. FEMA 55 (43.23 Joists and Rafters) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should delete the reference to rafters or add information an rafters. 

See Appendix, page B-13, item 2 

17. FEMA 55 (434 Subifooring) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
The provuow are compatible. FEMA 55 should provide some recommended nail spacing and spans. 
See Appendbx, page B-13, item 3 

4B-3



18. FEMA 55 (4.325 Studs) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should address sizing of studs including number of stories which the stud supports or limits for the use 
of 2x4 studs. 
See Appendix, page B-13, item 4 

19. FEMA 55 (43.2.6 Wall Sheathing) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should provide additional information addressing the wind speed in addition to height above grade. 

See Appendix, page B-14, item 1 

20. FEMA 55 (4.3.2.7 Wall Bracing) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should combine 4.3Z6 Wall Sheathing and 4.3.2.7 Wall Bracing into one section and address the design 
requirements for the wall bracing method chosen. 

See Appendix, page B-14, item 2 

21. FEMA 55 (4.3.3.1 Knee Braces) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should emphasize that the wood foundation piles should be designed for the additional moment 
introduced into the pile from the knee brace. 
See Appendix, page B-14, item 5 

22. FEMA 55 (433.2 Grade Beams) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should emphasize the need to design the grade beams to assure that they are actually providing lateral 
support of piles.
See Appendix, page B-15, item 1


23. FEMA 55 (43.3.3 Truss Bracing) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should emphasize the need to design the bracing members. 
See Appendix, page B-15, item 2 

24. FEMA 55 (433.4 Shear Walls) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should address wood shear walls for wood pile foundations 
See Appendix, page B-15, item 3 

25. FEMA 55 (43.4.4 Floor Beam to Pile, Post, or Pier) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should provide some design values or wind speeds for which the connections are appropriate. 
See Appendix, page B-15, item 5 

4B-4 


26. FEMA 55 (437.1 Window Selection STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FMA 55 (43.72 Operable Shutters) 
FEMA 55 should address the design of the windows and shutters for the wind load pressures 

See Appendix, page B-16, item 4
See Appendix, page B-16, item S


27. FEMA 55 (43.7.4 Roofing Materials) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should emphasize the need to have a roof covering designed to withstand the uplift from the *ind. SBC 
should emphasize that the roof covering should be designed to 1205.
See Appendix, page B-17, item 2


28. FEMA 55 (53 Slabs an Grade) STANDARD BUIDING CODE 
The minimum slab thickness in FEMA 55 should be changed to 3 12 inches and delete the requirement for welded 
wire fbric. 

See Appendix, page B-1, item 2 

29. FEMA 55 (-3. Scope) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
Since market value Lsa variable based on location, economy, etc., FEMA should require compliance for all 
improvements since noncompliance of any part of the structure makes. the entire structure out of compliance. 
See Appendix,, page B-2I, item 1 

30. FEMA 55 (G-7.1 Pile Foundation Design) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should emphasize that pile spacing and embedment shoLdd be based on the foundation investigation. 
FEMA 55 should reduce the minimum compressive strength of the concrete for reinforced concrete piles to 4000 
psi, since 4000 psi has been a building code requirements since 1980. 

See Appendix, page B-fl, item I 

31. FEMA5 (-8.1 Connector and Fasteners) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should not prohibit toe nailing if the connection is adequate for the calculated loads. SBC should address 
corrosion protection of metal connectors. 

See Appendix, page B-22, item 4 

32. FEMA 55 182 Beam to Pile Connections) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 (G8.5 Ceiling JoistRafter) 
FEMA 55 sould permit the designer to design the connection. 

See Appendix, page B-23, item 1
See Appendix, page B-23, item 4


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33. FEMA 55 (G-83 Floor to Deck Connections) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 (G-8.4 Exterior Wall Connections) 
FEMA 55 should permit the designer the leeway to meet performance requirements. 

See Appendix, page B-23, item 2
See Appendix, page B-23, item 3


34. FEMA 55 (G-9. Roof Sheathing) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should permit particleboard roof sheathing provided it is of the appropriate strength. 
See Appendix, page B-24, item 1 
35. FEMA 55 (G-13. Certification Requirements) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 55 should provide parameters for which sections 7 and 8 are appropriate (wind load, height above grade,
etc.).
See Appendix, page B-25, item 2


36. FEMA 85 (Anchoring) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 85 should address minimum number of ties and anchors. 
See Appendix, page B-26, item 4 
37. FEMA 102 (MI.C.3 Piles) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
FEMA 102 should emphasize that the length and maximum design load is based on the foundation investigation 
and report. 
See Appendix, page B-29, item 4 

38. FEMA 102 (Table III-1 Minimum STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
Requirements for Reinforced Piers) 
FEMA 102 should clarify the soil bearing capacity was used for the minimum footing size and the design loads used 
for the minimum pier size. 

See Appendix, page B-30, item 2 

39. MCRB (I-A-2 Reinforced and Grouted Block) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
MCRB should reference ANSI A412 and ACI/ASCE 530. 
See Appendi, page B-37, item 2 
40. MCRB (A4 Reinforced Concrete) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
MCRB should reference ACI 318. 
See Appendix, Page B-37, item 4 
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41. MCRB (IILB.9 Anchorage) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
MCRB should be changed to comply with current model codes. 

See Appendix, Page B-4, item 5 

42. MCRB (l.C.5 Debris, Wind, Impact, Snow, Ice, and STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
Other Live Loads) 
MCRB should include wind, snow, and seismic loads. 

See Appendix, Page B-42, item 5 

43. MCRB (h. V Basements for Floods) STANDARD BUILDING CODE 
MCRB(A.2 Designs, Methods, and Tables) 
MCRB (A.2a Building Model, Dimensions, and Loading) 
MCRB (A2.b Structural Analsis Model) (Wail) 
MCRB (A2-c Structural Plain Concrete), 
MCI1 (Ai2.d Reinforced Concrete) 
MCRB (A.2.e Plain Masonry Block) 
MCRB (A.2f Reinforced Mason Block) 
MCRB (A2.g Flood Waters Above Grade) 
MCRB (A2h Slab Tbickness) (Based on Bending) 
MCRB (Ai Structural Slab Design) (Ultimate Strength Design) 
MCRB should not reference a single model code. MCRB should reference only national consensus documents. 

See Appendbx Page B42, item 13 

44. FEMA 54 (nsulation) STANDARD MECHANICAL CODE 
Change FEMA 54 to address insulation of exposed ductwork. 

See Appendix, page B-59, item 3 

45. FEMA 102 (Ct IV Other Floodprocfing STANDARD MECHANICAL CODE 
Measures) 
(1) Revise SMC to reference the Standard for Floodplain Management (2)) Revise FEMA 102 to reference the 
locally adopted model code for installation clearances. 
See Appendix, page B-62, item 2 

46. FEMA 102 (Appendix D Thodproofing STANDARD MECHANICAL CODE 
Performance Criteria.) 
(1) Revise FEMA 102to reference the localmodel codes for access and clearance. 2) Revise SMC to reference 
Standard for Floodplain Management. 
See Appendix, page B-62, item 4 

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47. FEMA 114 (Ch. 9 Protection of Utilities, STANDARD MECHANICAL CODE 
9.4 Permanent Protection Measures) 
(1) Change FEMA to reference locally adopted model codes for clearances to combustible materials and minimum 
access (2) change the SMC to reference the Standard for Floodplain Management. 
See Appendix, page B.64, item 2 

48. FEMA 114 (Ch. 9 Protection of Utilities, STANDARD MECHANICAL CODE 
9.5 Utility Relocation to Existing Space) 
Section 9.5 of FEMA 114 should be revised to reference minimum clearances for heat producing appliances 
according to local model codes. 

See Appendix, page B-64, item 3 

49. FEMA 114 (Ch. 9 Protection of Utilities, STANDARD MECHANICAL CODE 
9.6 Utility Relocations to New Space) 
Section 9.5 of FEMA 114 should be revised to encourage obtaining a building permit for new 
constructionlalterations. It should also reference model codes for minimum clearance to combustibles and access 
to equipmenL 

See Appendix, page B-64, item 4 

50. FEMA 54 (Mechanical Equipment) STANDARD GAS CODE 
(1) Revise FEMA to caution that fuel-fired equipment must be installed to local codes (2) Revise SC to 
reference the Standard for Floodplain Management. 
See Appendix, page B-79, item 3 

51. FEMA 55 (Ch. 4 -Structure Design, Section 43.6 Utilities) STANDARD GAS CODE 
FEMA 55 (Appendix G "Sample Coastal Construction Code' 12 Utilities)
FEMA 102 (Ch. V Other Floodproofing Measures)
FEMA 102 (Appendix D "Foodproofing Performance Criteria)


(1) For elevation -revise the SOC to reference the Standard for Floodplain Management. (2) For fuel supply revise 
FEMA 55 AND 102 to reference model codes for installation. 
See Appendix, page B-:, item 1
See Appendix, page B-81, item 3
See Appendix, page B-83, item 2
See Appendix, page B-83, item 4


52. FEMA 114 (Ch.9 Protection of Utilities, STANDARD GAS CODE 
9.6 Utility Relocation to Existing Space) 
FEMA 114 should be revised to reference readers to local model codes for other safety considerations. 

See Appendix, page B-85, item 4 

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53. No. 90-3 (Section D-2) STANDARD' GAS CODE 
RevIse No. 90-3 to reference the local model code for venting and combustion air. 

See Appendix, page B-97, item I 

54. NFIP (60.3(b)(8) Manufactured STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
Home Installation) 
In order to avoid confusion, NFIP and SFM should list the zone designation (A, AO. AI, VO, M, etc.) along with 
the word description (floodway, coastal high hazard) 

See Appendix, page B-120, item 3 

55. FEMA 54 (Posts, Post Embedment, STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
Post Anchorage)
FEMA 55 (43.13 Posts)


FEMA 54 and FEMA 55 should combine post foundations and pile foundations into one section. 

See Appendix page B-123, item 1
See Appendix, page B-129, item 2


56. FEMA 54 (FLoor Beams, Cantilevers) STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
FEMA 54 should delete the rule of thumb". 

See Appendix, page B-123,- item 4 

57. FEMA 54 (Performance Criteria) STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
FLA 55 (4.1.1 Wind) 
FEMA 55 (5.1 General Design Considerations) 
FEMA 55 (5.6 Exterior WaL Systems) 
FEMA 114 (3.14 Technical Design Criteria Open Foundations) 
FEMA 114 (Appendix C -Forces) 
No. 85-3 (II Wind and Water Forces) 
No. 88-1 
FEMA 54, FEMA 55, FEMA 114, No. 85-3 and 88I should include performance criteria for snow and seismic 

loads. The use of the phrases "unacceptable risks", "unacceptable health hazards, and "unacceptable magnitude" 

are too subjective. FEMA 114 should update the wind speed maps to the latest edition. FEMA 55, No. 85-3 and 

No. 881 should update reference to ASCE 7.88. Section 80.1.1 of the Standard for Floodplain Management should 

reference Chapter 12 instead of only 1205 (Wind) to include 1204 (Snow). and 1206 (Seismic). 

See Append4~ page B-125, item 1
See Appendix, page B-126, item 2
See Appendix, page B-13Z item 2
See Appendix, page B-133, item 2
See Appendix, page 3-143, item 4
See Appendix, page B-145, item 3
See Appendix, page B-156, item 1
See Appendix, page B-157, item 1


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58. FEMA 55 (4.1.4 Effects of Forces on STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
Higher and Larger Structures) 
FEMA 55 should provide velocity pressures (psi) for varied wind speeds and building height. 

See Appendix, page B-127, item 1 

59. FEMA 55 (4.2.1.2 Main Supporting STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
Members, Beams, Wood) 
FEMA 55 should provide more specific parameters for which the stated nailing is appropriate. 

See Appendix, page B-127, item 4 

60. FEMA 55( 43.1.2 Piles) STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
FEMA 55 should emphasize that the type of pile, pile depth, and method of installation should be based on the 
soils investigation. 
See Appendix, page B-129, item 1 

61. FEMA 55 (43.1.4 Piers) STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
FEMA 55 should clarify that the reinforcing, footing size, and grade beam should be based on the design forces 
See Appendix, page B-129, item 3 
62. FEMA 55 (4.3.2.3 Joists and Rafters) STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
FEMA 55 should delete the reference to rafters. 

See Appendix, page B-130, item 1 

63. FEMA 55 (43.2.6 Wall Sheathing, 
4.3.27 Wall Bracing) 
FEMA 55 should combine wall sheathing 
for the wall bracing method chosen. 
See Appendix, page B-130, item 4 

64. FEMA 55 (4.3±8 Roof Details, 
STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
and wall bracing into one section and address the design requirements 

STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 

4.3.3 Foundation Bracing, 4.3.4 Connections) 
FEMA 5S should provide some design values or wind speeds for which the connections and details are appropriate. 
See Appendi, page B-130, item 5 
65. FEMA 55 (4.3.6 Utilities) STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
FEMA 55 should address the potential damage from high winds in coastal areas. 
See Appendix, page B-131, item 2 
4B-10



66. FEMA 55 (G6 Determination of STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
Loading Forces)
FEMA 55 !(-14 ReFerence Documents)
FEMA 85 (CIL V Design of


Elevated Foundations)
FEMA 114 (Appendix C -Forces)
No. 85-3 (II Wind and Water Forces)
No. 88-4


FEMA 55, FEMA 85, HUD's MHCSS, No. 85-3 should update its reference to ASCE 7-88. FEMA 114 should 
update the wind speed maps to the latest edition and address snow and sesmic loads. Section 801.1 of the Standard 
for Floodplain Management should reference Chapter 12 instead of only 1205 (Wind) to include 1204 (Snow) and 
1206 (Seismic). 

See Appendix, page B-136, item 2
See Appendix, page B-138, item 1
See Appendx, page B-140, item I
See Appendix, page B-145, item 3
See Appendix,page B-156, item 1
See Appendix, page B-157, item 1


67. FEMA 55 (G-13 Certification STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
of Requirements) 
FTMA 55 should provide parameters for which sections 7 and 8 are appropriate (wind load, height above grade, 
etc.) 

See Appendix, page B-137, item 

68. MCRB (11I.C.5 Debris, Wind Impact, Snow, STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
Ice and Other Live Loads) 
MCRB should include wind, snow, and seismic loads. 

See Appendix, Page B-149j item I 

* 69. MCRB (Chapter V Basements in Floods) STANDARD FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 
MCRB (A. Structural DesigWAnaysis) 
MCRB (A.2 Designs, Methods, and Tables) 
MCRB (AI.a Building Model, Dirn.3ans, and Loading) 
MCRB (A.2b Structural Analysis Model) (Wall) 
MORE (Alc Structural Plain Concrete) 
MOB (Ad Reinforced Concrete) 
MCRB (A.2e Plain Masonry Block) 
MCRB (A2tf Reinforced Masonry Block) 
MCRB (AZg Flood Waters Above Grade) 
MCRB (A2h Slab Thickness) (Based on Bending) 
MORB (A2i Structural Slab Design) (Ultimate Strength Design) 
MCRB should not reference a single model code. MCRE should reference only national consensus documents. 

See Appendix, Page B-149, item 2 

4B-i1 


Recommended Changes to FEMA Documents Based on the ICBO Uniform Codes 

1. CFR 60.6 Uniform Building Code 
(c)(2)(i) (Flood-proof Walls) 
Either the U.B.C. should provide provisions for residential basements or CFR 60.6 should not allow such 
basements. 

See Appendix, page C-8. item 2. 

2. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
4.1.1 (Wind) 
FEMA-55 should reference the latest edition of the Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and other structures
published by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE 7-88, formerly ANSI 58.1)'.
See Appendix, page C-0, item 1.


3. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
4.1.2 (Corrosion Protection)
FEMA-55 should address roofing details and those of other exterior assemblies.
See Appendix, page C-10, item 2.
4. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code
4.2.1.3 (Other Wood Members)
FEMA-55 should require protection of ai members that are exposed to these conditions.
See Appendix, page C-12, item 2.


5. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code
4.2.1.4 (Preservatives)
FEMA-55 should recommend that the wood preservatives meet approved national and local standards.
See Appendix page C-12, item 3.
4C-1



6. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
4.3. 1 (Foundations)
FEMA-55 should recommend the use of only piles or columns in Coastal High Hazard Zones.
See Appendix, page C-12, item 4.
7. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
4.3.1.1 (Soil Conditions) 
FEMA-55 should recommend the use of a licensed engineer for the classification of the soil or provide a
reference to a document that does require such certification.
See Appendix, page C-14, item 1.


8. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code
4.3.1.2 (Piles)
FEMA-55 should recommend that the sizing of the piles is done by a licensed engineer or architect or provide a
reference to a document that does require such certification.
See Appendix, page C-14, item 2.


9. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code
4.3.1.3 (Wood Posts)
FEMA-55 should allow the use of wood posts in A zones provided the foundation system is designed by a 
licensed engineer or architect. 

See Appendix, page C-14, item 3. 

10. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
4.3.1.4 (Masonry Piers) 
FEMA-55 should recommend that a licensed engineer or architect design the pier foundation or provide a
reference to a document that does require such certification.
See Appendix, page C-14, item 4.


4C-2



11. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
4.3.2.1 (Framing) 
4.3.2.2 (Floor Beams) 
FEMA-55 should recommend that the design of this type of framing system be done by a licensed engineer or 
architect, since these areas may also be subject to other lateral forces or provide a reference to a document that 
does require such certification. 

See Appendix, page C-14, item 1. 

12. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
4.3.3 (Foundation Bracing)
FEMA-55 should recommend that a licensed engineer or architect design these braces and the rest of the
foundation system or provide a reference to a document that does require such certification.
See Appendix, page C-17, item 1.


13. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
4.3.3.2 (Grade Beams) 
FEMA-55 should recognize other methods of foundation restraint.
See Appendix, page C-17. item 3.


14. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
*, 4.3.3.4 (Shear Walls) 
FEMA-55 should address the use of wood shear walls as an acceptable method of resisting wind and water
loads.
See Appendix, page C-1, item 1.


4C-3



Uniform Building Code

15. FEMA-55 
4.3.6 (Utilities)
FEMA-55 should also include the protection of utilities in the A' flood hazard zone as they subject to similar
conditions found in the Coastal High Hazard zone.
See Appendix, page C-20. item 4.


Uniform Building Code

16. FEMA-55 
5.5 (Elevated Floors)
FEMA-55 should discuss composite floor systems as these are prevalent in high-rise construction.
r 

See Appendix, page C-22, item 3. 

Uniform Building Code

17. FEMA-55 
Figure No. A-I (Number of Piles) 

FEMA-55 should recommend that a licensed engineer or architect design the piling system rather than provide 

specific design criteria for all situations or provide a reference to a document that does require such
certification. Also, FEMA-55 should consider the soil conditions at the site when making design
recommendations.


See Appendix, page C-23, item 2. 

Uniform Building Code

18. FEMA-55
Table No. A-7 (Bolt Capacity of Floor Beam Connections)
FEMA-55 should base their design tables on the materials used in the connection as well as the type of
connection.
See Appendix, page C-25, item 2.


4C-4



19. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
B.1 (Knee Bracing) 
FEMA-55 should recognize the use of other forms of bracing as well as requiring the use of a licensed engineer 
or architect in the design of such a system. 

See Appendix, page C-27, item 2. 

20. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
B.2.1.2 (Thread Bar Diagonals) 
B.2.2 (Struts)
FEMA-55 should not recommend specific manufacturers.
See Appendix, pages C-28, items 2 and 3.
21. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code
D.3 -Procedure A-3 (Minimum Embedment of Piles)
FEMA-55 should recommend that a soils engineer be consulted and a soils report be undertaken for each 
specific site as the soil conditions vary from site to site. 

See Appendix,. pages C-230, item 1. 

22. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
Appendix G.4 (Definitions) 
FEMA-55 should develop language that correlates the definition of grade' with the U.B.C. Such as replacing 
the term adjoining" with a specific distance from the building at which point the measurement is taken. 

See Appendix, page C-33, item 1. 

23. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code 
Appendix G.6.2 (Wind Loads)
FEMA-55 should include the latest edition of ANSI Standard A 58.1 which is now ASCE 7-88.
See Appendix, page C-34, item 2.


4C-5



24. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code
Appendix G.7. 1 (Pile Foundation Design)
FEMA-55 should include a provision for soil investigations to determine the site soil conditions.
See Appendix, page C-34, item 4.
25. FEMA-55 Uniform Building Code
Appendix G.8.3 (Floor and Deck Connections)
FEMA-55 should consider other structurally adequate rnaterials.
See Appendix, page C-36, item 2.


26. FEMA-S5 Uniform Building code
Appendix G. 11 (Use of Space Below the Lowest Elevated Floor)
FEMA-55 should not allow enclosed space for vehicular parking unless it is provided by breakaway walls and
should recognize that portable or temporary storage of items can be located there.
See Appendix, page C-38, item 1.


27. FEMA-54 Uniform Building Code
Post Embedment
FEMA-54 should recommend the use of a soils investigation report by a licensed soil engineer in the design of
the foundation system.
See Appendix, page C-43, item 4.


28. FEMA-54 Uniform Building Code
Building Materials 

FEMA-54 should not recommend specific manufacturers or industrial groups for the protection of building
materials.
See Appendix, page C-43, item 4.


4C-6



29. FEMA-54 Uniform Building Code 
Wood 
FEMA-54 should not recommend specific manufacturers. 

See Appendix, page C-44, item 1. 

30. FEMA-114 Uniform Building Code 
3.14 (Open Foundations) 
FEMA-114 should discuss the use of a soils engineer and soils report in detennining the embedment length of 

piles and the soil-bearing pressure in flood-prone areas. 

See Appendix, page C-47, item 1. 

31. FEMA-114 Uniform Building Code 
6.5 (Technical Design Criteria)
FEMA-I 14 should recognize the authority of the local building codes, rather than recommend the use of
standards which may not be recognized by the jurisdiction.
See Appendix, page C-48, item 1.


32. Bulletin No. 85-1 Uniform Building Code
I. Definition
FEMA Bulletin No. 85-1 should state that this method of floodproofing is only acceptable for the retrofitting of 
existing buildings. 

See Appendix, page C-78, item 1. 

4C-7



Rmne Chgesto FE Dument 

Basd on NFPA Standards 

1. FEMA 44 9.1 (c)) NFPA 70 
Ddka 
'400 square feet or messwhen measred at fte largest horizontal pujection.See 
Appendix, page D-. par 1. 

2. FEMA 54 (Utility Service, Pages 9293) NFPA 70 
Add a qualifiation in utility services: 
"Elecl condits and cables are to be suitable for an expected wet environment and the corwive 
envkonment presented by salt water and spray in coast ans. 

See Appendix, page D6,par 2. 

3. FEMA 54 (Servc Monting, Pags 9293) NFPA 70 
Mdanznore 

Mecut cquwm shall be securely fstened to te surface on which it is mounted. Wooden plugs driven 
into holes in masonry, conete. plter, or smilr materials sll not be used. Underground electric supply conduits 
or cables should not be fitened to wils or snctues inded to beekaway waxderflood condiions. NFPA 70, The 
Naion Eeric Code should be consulted for fI installation requm t. 

See Appendix, page D-6. par 3. 

4 FEMA 54 (Raceways, Pags 92,93) NFPA 70 

Add the following: 

Eeuial coodut supplying te n turn when inled undergroud sold be seald The sealant 
should be installed at a location in die sysem 90 ranged s, prevent enunce of wae due to flood conditions. 
Underground elecoia condu or cables should be preced against damage frm flooding or scouring by baying to 
a depth dl will provide potecioun expected flood condion NFPA 70, The Naional Elecoic Code in 
Secon 23068,230-32, and 300-5 conn pecific des guidelines." 

See Appendix, pe 1>6 par 4. 

5. PEMA 54;(lectrical serice locato, Pages 92,93) NFPA 70 
Add the fotlbF 
"AI Mheu and cuit bakes shall be located so at they can be operated fron a readily acca:sible 
place. They should be locad so tot the ce of the opeuating hanl is not mote than 6 1/2 feet above the floor 
or plafms. Whew ncesmy, a patm may benlbd to provide accessibility where devi are located above 
the flood plainC 

See Appendix, page f-7, par 1. 

4D-1



6. PEMA 55 (4.36pr 5, seence 2) NFPA 70 
"Since die enclosure or raceway for the electric utilites is subject to physical damage, it should be installed 
illrigid metal condit, internediate metal conduit, or schedule 80 rigid nonmetallic conduitL" 

See Appwendix,page D-7, par 2. 

7. FEMA 55 (5-13.1) NFPA 70 
Add the folowing: 
" Fire barrier requirements for or life protection may require the maintenance of fire barriers to 

gil." 

See Appendix, page D-11, per 2. 

S. FEMA 85 (Chapter IV, Page 69, Utility Service) NFPA 70 
Add the following: 
Eectric equipmen shall be securely fasened to de surface, on which it is mounted. Wooden plugs driven 
into holes in masonry, concte, plaster, or similar materials shall not be used Underground electric supply conduit 
or cables sbould not be fasened to walls, or smncures inteded to break-away under flood condition Elecrical 
supply conduits andcables should be iabe for tie envizonment they ae likely to be exposed." 

See Appodix, pag D-7, p 3. 

9. FEMA 85 (Chapter I, Pae 69, Utility Service) NFPA 70 
Add the following: 
"Where electrical conduits supplyingdie s ure installed underground, the conduit should be sealed 

mhesealantshould be installed at a location in the systm so arged as to prevent entrance of water due to flood 
conditin Undergrotmd electrical conduits or cable should be protected against damage by buyg them to a depth 
which would minniiw their shifing under flood conditios. Men should be provided to prot ec al supply 
conduits emerging from undergund to the bm of te structur fm floating debris during flood conditions. All 

swithes and cirnuit brakersshould be lcaed so they can be operated rom a ily acsble place. They should 
be located so that the cent of the op t handlk is not morethan 6 2 feet above the floor or platforms. Where 
necessary, a platfoan may be installed to provideai where devices e located above the flood plain." 

See Appendix, page D4, par 1. 

10. FEMA 85-1 (U Poction Goals) NFPA 58 
Revie I 1n0 
-LP.GU or lqd 
Handlingof LiPamn 
truaufer stuld 
Gase 
be pefamd in with NFPA 58, Stdard for the Stog and 

See Appendix, pae D-5, par 1. 

4D-2



II. FEMA 85-1:(IV AS, par 2) NFPA 70 
Revise Amdng 

"Whe ehecuical supply lines cannt be elevated above food level, they should be installed to arrange for 

draining away from panelboads, contrllers, switches, or other elecurical equipment in accordace with NFPA 70, 

sections 110-1 and 110-17." 

See Appendix, page D-8, par 2. 

12. FEMA 85-1 (Protection of Interior Finishes) NFPA 101 
Add the following: 
Interir finishes may have fire resistance requirements wich must be met under odhr codes se from 
water resistance requeents." 

See Appendix, page D- 13, par 1. 

13. FEMA 85-3 NFPA 70
Refer to FEMA 55 utility requiments as they relate to breahway walls.
See Appendix. page -10, par 3.
14. FEMA 102 (page 11, r 2) NFPA 101 
Add the following: 
wine force to open docrs under means of egrss requirements should be maintained for exit doors. Latching 
requrments for exterior doors may include the use of fire exit hardware in educational or assembly occupancies." 

See Appendix, page D-12, par 1. 

15. FEMA 102 (Chapter IV D. Wet Floodproofing Techniques, par 4, sentence 2) NFPA 70 
Add the following: 
wWe electical supply lines cannot be elevated above the Design Flood Level they must be installed to 
arrange for taming away from paneairds, ctolles, switches, or other electical equipmen" 

See Appendix, page P-, par3. 

16. FEMA 102 (General) NFPA (General) 
Expndtde defin of Buildirng Code to include die refeecing of ocher undrds and codes to properly include 
NFPA Codes u au L 

See Appendix, page P-, par Z 

17. FEMA 114 8.7,, par 3, sentence 3) NFPA 70 
Revise to red 

Me power recqiace outlet and associated equipment slud be of the grouding p and be labeled and 
listed by a recognized tesdng labonay. 

See Appendix, page D-9, par 1. 

4D3 


18. FEA 114 (9.3) NFA 70B
Revise e so to tefrence NFPA 70B, Elecuical Equipment Maintenance.
See Apedix, page D-9, per 2.
19. FEMA 114 (9A) NFPA 70
Add the followng: 
W e elecic service conductos ame located win flood level rage mt type smrvic can be instaied to 
mme the eectical wvice above flood level sange.


See Apendix, pge D-9, par 3. 

20. FEMA 114 (Chapter 9) NFPA54
Add rfrenes to NFPA 54, National Fuel Gas'Code.
See Appendix, page D-2, pr 1.
21. FEMA 114 (9.4) NFPA S8
Add ferueces to NFPA 58, Suadmd for die Suxg and H g of Liquefied Peolen Gases.
See Appendix, page D-4, par 2.
22. FEMA 165 NFPA 58
Add fres to NFPA 58. Standard for de Storage and Handling of Liquefied Peroem Gas.
See Appendix, pag D-4, par 3.
4D-4



Rtomna soFEA lwma B nMaaufl HooigCadsad Smads 

1. NFTP Regulations Manufactured Home Construction 
& Safety Standards 
HtUD Handbook 4930.3 

Add a definition for 'modular housing.' 

See Appendiz pages E-1, item 1, and E3, item 1. 

2. NFW Regulations Manufactured Home Construction 
& Safety Standards 

Change §603(b)(8) as follow: 

. . . Acceptable methods of anchoring for resistance to fnood fore include the use of bolts, cables and ties to adequately 

deuiped foundations. 

See Appendix, page E-, item 1. 

3. NFIP Regulations Manufactured Home Construction 
& Safety Standards 
In 60.3(a)(3), add to the end of (W) ... this provision is not applicable to manufactured housing. 

See Appendix, page E-2, item 1. 

Note that in the opinion of NCS, FEMA SS should be replaced with a new document, a mor prescriptive, and thus 
more site-enforeable standard. The performance recommendations of FEMA KSare too vague to enable jurisdictions to 
perform the kind of sce expected. The recommendations that follow ae in the spirit of the contractual agreement 

4. FEMA 5 Manufactured Home Construction 
& Safety Standards 
Manufactured Housing nstitute 
Model Installation Manual 

Change the firstparapaph at the top of pae 4 to read 

Manufactured home hae been desiped for placement on permanent foundations. Car must be taken to assure the safe 
transfer of all loads ( raiy, wind, and flood), so as to not distrm the structure 

See Appendix, pages E-22, item 1. and E-36,item L 

S. FEMA 5 Manufactured Hom C truion
& Safe Sdad 

On page 15, add a sentence to the fust Hydrodynamic f paragraph: . . downstream side. The illustration below 
shows te forces acting on a home installed with the noor below the Basic Flood Line. In order to comply with the NFIP, 
homes min be installed above the flood line. Me foundations and anchorage must be installed to resist damage.' 

See Appendix, page E-23, item 1. 

4E-1 


6. FEMA 85 Manufactured Home Construction 
& Safety Standards 
On pap 22, change the caption for Figure 3.11 to include the statement: Dry stcked blocks commonly approved by 
Matfacured Housing Producers ae not acceptable under the NFIP.' 

See Appendix, pages E-23, item 4; E-25, item 3; E-26, item 1; and items 1-6. n-27e 

7. FEMA 5 Manufactured Home Construction 
& Safet Standards 
Manufactured Housing Institute 
Model Installation Manual 

Further resarch/tudy is recotmended to dtetmin the capacity of anchors under saturated soil conditions. In FEMA 
85, on page 30, add a sentence to the end of the paragraph that ends at the top of the ight column: *If test data or 
certified capacity chart re not available for saturated soil, the gound anchors hould ot be ued.' 

See Appendix, pages E-24, item 1; E-25, item 5; E-31, item 4; E-3S, item 2; and E-39, item 6. 

S. FEMA S Manufactured Home Construction 
& Safety Standards 
Manufactured Housing Institute 
Model Intallation Manual 

On page 52, Figure 4.32,change the orientation of the ground anchor to how it coaxial with the cable and add the 

following to the caption: 

Ground anchors must be instlled ted. Ground anchor test are usUally for anchors applied in the ame axis as the 
cable. If test dat or certified capacity charts ae t available for applications in saturated wil, the ground anchors should 
not be used. 

See Appendix, paps E-26, item 1, and E-40, item 1. 

9. FEMA 8 Manufactured Home Construction 
& Safety Standards 
Further study is recommended on the structural procedures that ae recommended in Appendix D. h appears that higher 
margins of safety againstoverturning and sliding may be ppropriate. 

See Appendix, pages E-28, item 4, and E-29, item 2. 

10. FEMA 85 Manufactured Home Construction 
& Safety Standards 
HUD Handbook 4930.3 

Further study is recommended to collect state-of-the-at teat results for ground anchor applications in vrious types of 
soils, stuted, and unsaturated, as well u the effects of varying the angle of pull and u of concrete collars. The results 

of that effott thould be usd to update Appendix E. 

See Appenix, pages E-29, item 1; E-31, item 4; and E-33, item 2. 

11. FEMA S HUD Handbook 4930.3 
On page 5, add the flloing to the cond fom the st paragraph: 

The design methods and procedures for food damage abatement ae contained in this manual. 

On page 6, either eliminate the Type 2 System fom Fgure 1. 13 or explain that this system is unstable and is not allowed. 

See Appendix, page E-30, item 2. 

4E-2 


12. FEb{A 5 
HUD Handbook 4930.3 
Cha t firt pargraph. second column, page Ita read as follows: 

Because it is highly unlikely that maximum wind forces and maximum flood loads will occur simultaneously

structU, designs should be prepared separately for the NToloads (wind nd flood). Te nc 
on one 

design is thrt which 

should be used. 

See Appendix, page E-31, item 

. 

13. FEMA 5 
HUD Handbook 49303 
Add new paragraph beneath Figure 4.2 in column 2: 

FEMA recommiends that foundations designed to resist combination. f Wind and flood loads be designed to resis the

wind loads in ASCE-7. 

See Appendix, pages E-31, em , and E-32, items 2 and 4. 

14. FEMA 5 
HUD Handbook 4930.3 
Add pargrph beneath the chan in column 2 of page 45: 

The chart above was developed baend upon test reslts for ground anchors in dry oil.

anhors not be used for flooding conditions un 
FEMA recommends that grounddata for anchors in saturated oil is presented to the building official to

show sfe working loads of the ancho that exceed 22001. 

See Appendix, psge E32, item 3. 

15. FEMA S5 
Manufictured Home Construction 
& Safety Standards 
HUD Handbook 4930.3 
In Appendix E, change Table E. I ud add a footnote to Table E. ,page 99; place an seik next to each Water HeightDifference >6'so that the headline red: 

I 2 345 6 9 2* .424* 

' Floor-to-frame screw anchorage exceeds the wind uplift requirements of the Federal Manufactured Housing Constructionand Safety Stands. Additional screws ae needed. Use a screw design force equivalent to the T, for the actual designminus T fob 6' Difference in Water Height. Exmple: 24 Wide Home, 42' Water Height Difference, use 2380.#


124.4-22561.
See Appendix, pages E-29, item , and E-33, item 2.


16. FEM 15 
-CAO TFDC, Appendix C 
On pag 22,add a last erence to the paragraph above Figure 3. 10: 

Excpio: Te equiremen for 30-burial can be waived in thone situstions were scouting is not expected. Pacefootings at a depth of 12', or the ft line, whichever is deeper. 

See Appendix, page E-34, item 3. 

4E-3 


6. FEMA 54 (Wood) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 54 should include "decay resistant wood." 

See Appendix, page F-7, item 1 

7. FEMA 55 (4.1.1 Wind) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 G-14 Reference Documents) 
FEMA 114 (Appendix C -Forces) 
No. 85-3 (II. Wind and Water Forces) 
No. 88-1 
FEMA 55, No. 85-3, and No. 88-1 should update its reference and confirm that the wind load provisions are
consistent with ASCE 7-88. The 1992 OTFDC does reference ASCE 7-88.
FEMA 114 should update the wind speed maps to the latest editions.


See Appendix, page F-9, item 2
See Appendix, page F-23, item 1
See Appendix, page F-28, item 5
See Appendix, page F-4Z item I
See Appendix, page F-43, item 1


8. FEMA 55 (4.1.4 Effects of Forces on Higher and Larger Structures) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should provide velocity pressures (psf) for varied wind speeds and building height. 

See Appendix, page F-10, item 1 

9. FEMA 55 (4.2.1.2 Main Supporting Members Wood, Beams) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should provide more specific nailing and splice details. OTFDC should provide more specific splice 
details. 

See Appendix, page F-10, item 4 

10. FEMA 55 (41.4 Wood Preservative) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should list some of the AWPA standards. 

See Appendix, page F-1l, item 1 

11. FEMA 55 (4.22 Masoniy Materials and Concrete) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 5S should add reference to ACI 318. 

See Appendiz, page F-11, item 2 

4F-2



12 FEMA 5(43.12 Piles) CABO OTFDC 

FEMA 55 should emphasize that rype of pile, pile depth, and method of installation should be based on the soil's 
investigation 

See Appendix, page F-12, item 3 

13. FEMA 55 (43.1.4 Piers) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should clarify that the reinforcing, footing size, and grade beam size should be based on the design forces 
See Appendix, page F-12, item 5 

14. FEMA 55 (4.3.2.2 Beams) 00 OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should provide nailing requirements for built-up members. 

See Appendix, page F-I3, item 2 

15. FEMA 55 (43.23 Joists and Rafters) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should delete the reference to rafters. 

See Appendix, page F-1S, item 3 

16. FEMA 55 (434 Subflooring) CABO OTFDC 
The provisions are compatible. FEMA 55 should provide some recommended nail spacing and spans. FEMA 55 
should permit the use of particleboard subftocra. 

See Appendix, page F-13, item 4 

17. FEMA 55 (4325 Studs) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should ddress the length of the stud n addition to the number of stories which the stud supports. 

See Appendix, page F-14, item 1 

18. FEMA 55 (4326 Wall Sheathing) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should provide additional information addressing the wind speed in addition to heigit above grade. 

See Appendix, page F-14, iten 2 

4F-3



19. FEMA 55 (432.7 Wall Bracing) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should combine 43.26 Wall Sheathing and 43.2.7 Wall Bracing into one section and address the design 
requirements for the wall bracing method chosen. 
See Appendix, page F-14, item 3 

20. FEMA 55 (433.4 Knee Bracing) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should emphasize that the wood foundation piles should be designed for the additional moment 
introduced into the pile from the knee brace. 
See Appendix, page F-15, item 1 

21. FEMA 55 (433.2 Grade Beams) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should emphasize the need to design the grade beams to assure that they are actually providing lateral 
support of the piles. 
See Appendix, page F-15, item 2 

22. FEMA 55 (4333 Truss Bracing) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should emphasize the need to design the bracing members. 
See Appendix, page F-15, item 3 

23. FEMA 55 (433.4 Shear Walls) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should address wood shear walls for wood pile foundation. 
See Appendix, page F-15, item 4 

24. FEMA 55 (43.4.4 Floor Beam to Pile, Post, or Pier) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should provide some design values or wind speeds for which the connections are appropriate. 
See Appendix, page F-16, item 1 

25. FEMA 55 (43.7 Wind and Storm Protection of Interior) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 (43.7.1 Window Selection) 
FEMA 55 should reference the window standards and require the windows to be designed for the wind pressures. 

See Appeadix, page F-16, item 4
See Appeadk, page F-17, item 1


4F-4



26. FEMA 55 (43.7.4 Roof Materi) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should emphasize the need to have the roof covering to withstand the uplift from the wind. 
See Appendix, page F-17, item 4 

27. FEMA 55 (-3 Scope) CABO OTETDC 
Since market value is,a variable bascd on location, economy, etc., FEMA 55 should require compliance forall 
improvements since noncompliance of any part of the structure makes the entire structure cut of compliance. 
See Appendix, page F-2l, item 1 

28. FEMA 55 (G-6 Determination of Loading Forces) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should update its reference to ASCE 7-8. FEMA 55 should also address snow and seismic loads. The 
1992 O TFDC does reference ASCE 7-88.
See Appendix, page F-20, item 4


29. FEMA 55 (0-9 Roof Sheathing) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should permit particleboard roof sheathing provided it is of the appropriate strength and does not 
deteriorate in the moist coastal environment. 

See Appendix, page F-21, item 4 

30. FEMA 55 (0-13 Certification Requiremonts) CABO OTFDC 
FEMA 55 should provide parameters for which sections 7 and 8 are appropriate (ind load, height above grade,
etc.
See Appendx, page F-2Z item 4


31. MCRB (IIA.1 Unreinforced Block) CABO O-T.FDC 
MCRB (IILA2 Reinforced and Grouted Block) 
MCRB should reference BIA and ACIVASCE530. 

See Appendix, page F-30, item 1
See Appendix, page F-3D, item 2


32. MCRB (I11A4 Reinforced Concrete) CABO OTFDC 
MCRB should reference ACE318. 
See Appeadk, page F-3D, item 4 

4F-5



33. MCRB (IILB.1 Basement Slab) CABO OTFDC 
MCRB should provide site preparation requirements, minimum compressive strength, and vapor barrier 
requirement 

See Appendix, page F-32, item 1 

34. MCRB (I.B.9 Anchorage) CABO OTFDC 
The MCRB should be changed to comply with current model codes. 

See Appendix, page F-34, item 1 

35. MCRB (.C.5 Debris, Wind, Impact, Snow, Ice, and Other Live Loads) CABO OTFDC or 
MCRB should include wind, snow, and seismic loads. 

See Appendix, page F-35, item 5 

36. MCRB (VA Structural Design/Analysis) CABO OTFDC 
MCRB (VA2 Designs, Methods, and Tables) 
MCRB (VA2.a Building Model, Dimensions, and Loading) 
MCRB (VA2.b Structural Analysis Model (Wall)) 
MCRB (V.2-c Structural Plain Concrete) 
MCRB (VA2.d Reinforced Concrete) 
MCRB (VA2.e Plain Masonry Block) 
MCRB (VA21 Reinforced Masonry Block) 
MCRB (VA2.g Flood Waters Above Grade) 
MCRB (V.A.2.h Slab Thickness (Based on Bending)) 
MCRB (VA2i Structural Slab Design (Ultimate Strength Design)) 
MCRB should not reference a single model code. MCRB should reference only national consensus documents. 

See Appendix, page F-36, item 1 


-4F-6



CHAPTER 5


RECOMMENDED CODE CHANGE LANGUAGE


19



Recommended Changes to the BOCA National Building Code 

FEMA BNBC Analysis 

NFIP 44 CFR 59.1 1109.4 Both FEMA and BOCA require the wall to be capableTechnical Bulletin 1112.0 of breaking away without effecting the structural 
85-3 2101.6.42 integrity of the structure. FEMhArequires break-away 

walls to resist wind loads but fail in response to 
combined wind and hydrodynamic loading. BOCA 
requires all structures to resist such loads except for 
coastal high-hazard zones where break-away walls are 
permitted. FEMA references ANSI A5.1, 1992 for 
wind loads. BOCA references ASCE 71982, the same 
document by another name. 

Recommendation: Provide exception to BOCA Section 1109.4 to address. breakaway walls. See also 
recommendation to 44 CFR 60.3(e) (5). 

Suggested Code Change: 

1109.4 Hydrodynamic loads: 

For buildings located in flood-hazard zones (A Zones) orhigh-hazard zones (V Zones), all structural components 
located below the base flood elevation shall be designed to resist hydrodynamic forces resulting from velocity 
waters during flooding to the base flood elevation. 

Excention: Walls designed to break away or collapse as nermitted in Section 2101.6.4.2. 

FEMA BNBC Analysis 
NFI 44 CFR 60.3 2101.6.4.3 FEMA's provisions (Zone V) do not permit the use of 
fill for structural support. BOCA does not include this 
limitation. Also, the FEMA requirements include 
subclassifications of zones (i.e. V, E, etc) while 
BOCA addresses the zones as Zone V. 

Recommendation: It would be appropriate to propose a revision to BOCA to include this prohibition. See also 
44 CFR 59.1 -Elevated buildings. 

Suggested Code Change: 

210 1.6.43 Foundations: 

All buildings or structures erected in high-hazard zones shall be supported on pilings or columns and shall be 
adequately anchored to such pilings or columns. The piling shall have adequate soil penetration to resist the 
combined wave and wind loads (lateral and uplift) to which such piles are likely to be subjected during a flood 

to the base flood elevation. Pile embedment shall include consideration of decreased resistance capacity caused 
by scour of soil strata surrounding the piling. Pile system design and installation shall also be made in 
accordance with provisions of Section 1213.0 and 1214.O. Mat or raft foundations which support columns shall 

not be permitted where soil investigations required in accordance with Section 1202.1 indicate that soil material 
under the mat or raft is subject to scour or erosion from wave-velocity flow conditions. The use of fill for 
structural support shall be rohibied. 

5A-1 


iFEMA 

FEMA-54, 55 ism 

Technical Bulletin 180L4 
85-1 
Technical Bulletin 
88-2 

106 

1503.1 

1S0332 

L506.63 

: 

14011 
1402.6 

170Ll 
1702.1 
17032.6 
1704.11 
17M.53 
(Supp)
Appd.C 

q 

BOCA states that steel shall be protected for exterior 
use with a shop or field coat to prevent corrosion. 
BOCA and FEMA require structural steel work and 
formed steel members to be corrosion protected but 
BOCA does not specifically address connectors. FEMA 
recommends the use of hot-dipped gavanizing for 
structural steel and the use of stainless steel. FEMA 
recommends regular inspection and maintenance of 
metal parts. No regular inspection parameters are 
stipulated in BOCA. FEMA recommends that the use 
of dissimilar metals be avoided due to potential for 
rapid corrosion. 

BOCA requires that admiturOs, if used, shall follow 
requirements of ACI 318, ASTM C260, ASTM C618 
and ASTM C989 depending on the type used. FEMA 
does not include requirements for the use of admixtures. 

BOCA ites that concrete shall be proportioned to 
provide the average compressive strength as prescribed 
by AC 318, not less than 2500 psL FEMA does not 
include the standard. FEMA acknowledges the effects 
of concrete exposed to salt laden air but does not 

pvide criia BOCAprscres m mumconcrete 

properties (w/c, fc) for coce exposedto sea water. 

BOCA ad FEMA require increased concrete cover to 

fnest hSllei sti~ilateSthe incrase. 

FMA acknowledges the ceffectsof sat laden air on 
mortar but does not provide types of mortar whichare 
acceptable. BOCA also does not prescribe specific 
masonry mortar types for masonry exposed to salt aden 
air. BOCA requires that mortar is to comply with 

ASTMC7. 

BOCA requires that pressure treated wood shall 
conform with standards AWPA CL, C2 and C9. BOCA 
referaenesNFoPANDSwhich rquire galnized sheet 
for metal plate connector joints (8.103). BOCArequires 
gaanizd stee connections when the frame is more 
than one story in height and the studs are not 
cotinuous from the sillto the roof FEMA requires all 
connection to be corrosion resistant. FEMA Ewes that 
wood shall be treated to resist fungus, insects, bacteria, 
and rot and the treatment must be designed to keep 
water out. FEMA and BOCA's preservative treated 
wood fastener requiremeu simila. 

5A-2



FE MC Anis 

FEMA recommends either X4 or 1x bods laid 

diagonally over jois or exerior type plywood following 
the guidelines of APA Plywood Construction Guide. 
BOCA includes floor sheathing tables. FEMA stipulates 
an exterior glue while BOCA requires enrior, 
waterproof type plywood in all enerior uses, but allows 

either interior type, moisture-resistant type, or enerior 

type in interior application BOCA does not stipulate 
gue between layers for pwood FEMA stipulatesannular ring 'ails or deformed shank nails while 
BOCAs recommended fastening schedule (Appendix C) 
permits common nails 

21033.10 Flashingrequirements simili. 

2102.5 BOCA requires that eterior walls of alternative 
materials be weather-resistant but does not mention 
corrosion resistance. 

2101.6.6 BOCA includes a genral pefrm regulation which 

210D.633 requires AD build shall be consu with 
materials resistant to flood damage2 BOCA ms no 
tPliz proision to evaluate fiih intended to be 
periodically submerged. FEMA requires finish to 

withstand immesion for 160 hours without damage. 

190.1 E FEMA recommnds a 07 mil. anodiin finishand/or
vin finish for alumium elements such as doors, 
windos, gutters and flashinp BOCA references AALASS 
and AA-ASM35 for aluminum used for strucural 

purposes. No smila requirements. 

Recommendation: Both codes acknowledge the effects sal laden air and moisture have on building components.
FEMA and BOCA require corrosion resisant fastees for pressure teedw d but neher provide definitive 

akeria for masonryor conez It s rcommended that FEMA includea geneal provisionto addressmoisture 
proteaion and BOCA vse its crrent text. Suueated language is: Cnstion mtials, includingconnedions, shall be resistant to water damage such that conditions of corroon,. deterioration or decay will not 

oc 

Additionally, FEMA should onsider referencing the applicable standards for wood preservativs concrete and, 
masonry. Also, BOCA should include performance related ten to address FEMA requirements for finises 

Sugested Code t>ange 

21OL6.6Consucon mateals methods, and practces 

All buildinp or sannu erected n flood-hazard zones (A zones) or in high-hazard ze (V Zones) shall be 
constructedwith materials resisant to food damageand be consucd bymethods and praic thatminimi 
flood damae . Construction materials o shall be resta to water dama such,ta 
conditions of corrosion deterioation or d a will not occu aih e pro o 

4fJ9A lflti, 16401, 1011 1702, 170162 and 170ZSS. Iterior wallfinishesand trimsubj t as 
contact with flood waters shall be of a t able to withstand inundatiol for a minimum of 160 hours without

a=. 

5A-3



if MA 

FEMA-55 1219.0 FEMA recommends misnum timber pile sizes and 
1218.0 cits the advantages of square vs. round piles. FEMA 
recommends concrete piles when higher capacity 

or 

longer lengths are nceded BOCA does no stipulate 
minimum timber pile sizes but rather relies on a desiga. 
BOCA specifies a mininum lateral dimension for 
precast concrete piles of 100. BOCA relies on a 
designed system to support the loads. 

1213.0 FEMA cites the effects pile embedment has on the 
1214.0 structural capacity of the pile. FEMA provides 
210L6.43 recommended pile petrationes BOCA does not 

stipulate minimum pile embedments, but rather relies on 
a desiL BOCA requires pile embedment to consider 
scouringin hazard e(V Zone) only. 

1210 FEMA provides details of typical methods to i 
1219.0 piles. BOCA does not prescribe the installation details 
for piles with the exception of cast-in-place concrete 
Pam 

Recommendation: FEMA requires scour around piles to be evaluated for all pile installations while BOCA 
specifically cites scour for V Zones. is recomended that BOCA include test for A Zones imila to that for 
V Zon relative to scour. 

Suggested Code Change: 

2101.63.2 Anchorage: 

The structural systemof all buildingsor structures shall be dsigne connecte,and anchored to resist flotation, 
collapse, or permanent lateral movement due to structural loads and stresses from flooding equal to the base 
flood elevation and shall be designed in accordance with Sections 11093 and 11094. Foundation designhl 
include consideration of decreased structural canacitv and stabity caused by scour of soil strata surround the 
I gn| ti g 

5A-4



R BNBC~~~EIB 
FEMA-114 2101.632 
21016.43 
M12l± 
Anchor bolts of a 1/2 diameter with a um 
spacing of 4 feet and an embedment depth of t are 
required by FEMA. BOCKs embedment depthlsare t 
(concrete) and 15' (routed masonry). The total 
reaction force due to hydroszatic, hydrodynamic and/or 
impac loads mustbe transferred through anchor bolts 
ito he supporting system. FEMA permits pansion 
anchors as a equivalent means of anchorage. BOCA 
incluesperformance citeria Whichrequires the anchors 
to resist floatation collapse or lteral movement 
However, BOCs anchorage provision for wood 
specifies that the anchorage must resist wind uplift and 
the maimum spacig is feeL 

Recommendation: BOCA should revise the provisions of Secion 17032.11 to reference the desig as being

capable resisting both uplift and latrl forces due to flooding (and wind). See also FEMA-54-Pier foundation 
Connections. 

Sugested Code cge: 

('92 Supp) 170321 Foundation anchorag: 

Wall sill plates, miim of 2-inch by 4-inch members, shall be ied and anchored to foundation wals or piers

and at intermediate intervals as required to resist wind uplift Wall tlAtes located below the ase flood 
elevation in accordanee with Section 21016 shall be sized ad anchored in accordance with Secti 1109.4.

FoundaDtin anchorage shall be by the we of anchor bolts or other iapproved a gmethod. Anchor bolts 
shall be a minim.u diameter of 1/2 ihL The bolts shall be embedded in to a depth of not less 
than 8 inche (203 mm) of poured-in-plac concrete, and ot less than ISnc (381 mm) in grouted unit 

masonry. There shallbe a minimum of two anchor bolts per section of plate and anchor bolts shall be placed12 inches.(305 mm) from the end of ea sec ion of plate with intermediate bolts spaces a maximum of 4 feet 
(1219 mm) n center. 

xception: All buildings or structures locted in seismic map areasving a peak velodty-related acceleration 

(A) equal to or less than 0.05 in aodance with Section 11131 and buildings of Use Group R-3 located inseismic map areas haing a peak velodty-related acceleration (A,) less than 0.15 and apicultural storage
buildings which areintended mlyfor incidental hman oacu e permited to have maximum intermediate 
bolt spadng of 8 fet (2438 mm). 

SA-5



FEM Ambib 

Technical Bulletin 2101.6.5 FEMA recommends that elevator equipment be located 

884 : abovethe BFE or be water-resistant. Further, elevators 
should be interlocked to ensure that the cab 
automatically stays above flood water. BOCA requires 
all mechanical/electrical equipment to be placed above 
the BFE or protected to prevent water entering the 
equipment or system during floods up to the BFE. 

R ention: Add a subsection to BOCA 26062 Emergencyoperation of elevator to require elevators 
to automatically move to a pede ed levl above the BFE in the event of flooding. 

Suested CodeCae:; 

('92 Supp) 2606-14 Activation in te event of flooding 

in areas mm to nd float switch All b inteo d wM te ontro ci so th 
elevator cab atmtclyrssto the first lee bv h a flood elevdmn. 

IEM& AUbh 

Tchnical Bulletin90- : ,JA FEMA requires manufactured (mobile) homes to be 

4 62Q3.1 placed so that the lowest floor is either above the BFE, 
210L6 or placed on 36' es (above grade), or in an existin 
210L632 par. FEMA dwrbes various foundation/anchorage 
21016.43 methods and speaks to oi bearing capacity and proper 

2106.5 mbedment of pil to resist scOu. FEMA requires 
21016.7 tat any-e into a floodway be cartified that 
2101.69 such enrocbunt would not raise the BDFE Such 
prosi which presibe acceptable land use are 
the scope of the BOCA Code. BOCA requires 

mfactured housing to be designed and built to resist 
the same flood fore as ite built, which does jug 
provide for 36' pies and/or placementbelow the NFE 
for residential occupenoes. 

Recomendai To create separate and coflictin performance requirements for factory-builtstructures 

simply because they are not constructed on-site as contrary to BOCA's code development history and resultin 
policy an this matter. Therefore no r is made to cary FEMAs separate ent of 
manufactued housing into BOCA code text R endation is made however, to revise BOCA Code Section 
6203.1 to refer to flood forces and/or reference Section 211.6.7 of the BOCA Codc. 

S-CodeChW 

6203.1Acorae andtie-do:: 

Every parking pe for mobile units shall be provided with dvis for ag e unit to prevent Overturning 
or uplift own of the parking space shall an or cause to be an all mobile units located on the 
parig space. Where concrete pltforms are provided for the parking of mobile units, anchorage shall be 
proided by eyeets embedded in the concrete with adequate anchor pates or hool, or other suitable means 

Thec sha be adequate to withstand forces and uplift as required in Article 11 for buildings and 
structures, b d upon the size and weight of the units d e a ired by Secion 2101.6.7 for floo 

gnu-~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

5A-6 


Rcmmcnded Changs to the SBCCI Standard Codes 

Stadard Buiding Code 

NFIP SBC 

603(b)(8) ManufacturedHome H105.3 NFI? requires manufactured homes to be installed to

Installations resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement to 

minimize flood damage in addition to anchoring 

requirements for vMnd. SBC requires only anchorage for 

wind. 

Recommendasor None since SC does not address flotation as a force. Appendix H should reference the SBCCI 

Standard for Floodplain Management. 

Sunetsd Code Chage [or additionj: 

H103.6 Floodlain For manufactured homes located ithin the rerulator' floodylain. refer to the SBCCI Standard for 
Floodolain Manaaement. 

5B-1 


FEMA 55 S3C Anal" 
4.2.3.2 Steel(Page 4-11) Chapter 15 FEMA 55 addresses the problem of corrosion of 
unprotected steel shapes and anchoring devices (nails, 
bolts, etc.) and the need for regular inspection, 
maintenance, and replacement of corroded metal parts. 
SBC requires the design of steel construction to comply 
with the appropriate standards. SBC does not address 

corrosion in coastal environments. 
Recommendaion SBC should address corrosion protection in coastal areas. 
SuWsted Code Change [or addition]: 
1502PROTECTION FROM CORROSION 
Structural 

steel exnosed directly to the weather or subject to salt corrosion in coastal areas shall be hot-dipped galvanized after 
fabrication. 

(Renumber existing 1502 through 1511) 

5B-2



FEM8A 5 SBC 
4.3.7.4 Roofing haterials (Page 4.54) 1205.1 
3202 
I I 
FEMA 55 emphasizes the need to use self-sealing, 
heavyweigh shingles to avoid the possible loss of roofing 
material in high winds. SC requires all parts of the 
building o be designed to withstand the appropriate wind 

loads. 
Recomnwndaion FEMA 55 should emphasize the need to have a roof covering designed to withstand Lheupliftfrom the wind. SBC should emphasize that the roof covering should be designed to 1205. 

Suested Code Cange [or addition]: 

32021.1 Roof coverings shall be designed to withstand the minimum desien loads in Chanter 12. 

(Renumber etsting 3202.1.1 and 3202.1.2) 

5B-3



FEMA 102 SBC 
Appendix D Floodproofing 
PerformanceCriteria 
Chapter 12 FEMA 102 lists the type of loads which the floodproofed 
structure may be subjected. SBC requires the structure 
Appendix D.B Design Loads to be of sufficient strength to support the loads and 
(Pages 182-186) forces encountered. 

Recommendation: None since both FEMA 102 and SBC require the structure to be designed for the loads and forces 
encountered. SBC should address hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, and buoyance forces in floodplain areas. 

FEMA 114 SBC 

6.2 Considerations (Floodwalls) 1201.1 FEMA 114 addresses the use of floodwalls to protect 
(Pages 111-114) structures from flooding and emphasizes that tremendous 
forces are created by high water levels and velocities. 
SBC does not address floodwalls but does require 
structures to be designed for the loads and forces 

encountered. 

Reconmendation: SBC should address hydrostatic, hydrodynamic and buoyance forces in floodplain areas. 

FEMA 114 SBC 

Appendix C -Forces Chapter 12 FEMA 114 addresses hydrostatic loads, hydrodynamic 

(Pages 197-207) loads, impact loads, and wind loads. FEMA 114 also 
provides definitions, application and methodology for 
design. SBC requires design for all forces encountered 
but does not provide methodology. Section 900.4 of the 
SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management addresses 
hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads. 

Recommendation: FEMA 114 should update the wind speed maps to the latest editions and address snow and seismic 
loads. SBC should address hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, and buoyancy forces in floodplain areas. 

Suggested Code Change for addition]: 

1209 FLOODPLAIN 

1209.1 Gneal
For construction boated within the regulatory floodplain, refer to the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management.


12D92 Strucura S 

In addition to the minimum design loads of this chanter. provisions shall be made for hydrostatic hvdrodvnamic. and 

buoyancy forces. 

5B-4



FEMA 55 SBC Anahyis 
4.1.2 Salt Air, Moture, 
Wind-Driven Rain 
(Pages 4-7, 44) 
and 1703 FEMA 55 provides general discussion of the hazards of 
salt air, moisture, and wind-driven rain on wood, bolts, 
nails, and connectors. SBC requires wood subject to 
damage from decay and termites to be naturally durable 
or pressure treated. Chapter 17 of the SBC is for light 
frame conventional construction having light loads and. 
located in noncoastal areas. 
Recommndadon SC should address corrosion. 

FEA 55 SEC 

-. 1 Connector and Fasteners 1201.1 Both FEMA 55 and SBC require he connectors to 

(Page -5) support the loads and forces encountered. FEMA 55 
does not permit toe nailing. FEMA 55 requires metal 
connectors and fasteners to have corrosion protection. 

Rcommendadon FEMA 55 should not prohibit toe nailing if the connection is adequate for the calculated loads. 
SBC should address corrosion protection of metal connectors. 

FEMA 5 501M 

0-8 Anchoring Standards 601.1 Both FEMA 55 and SFM all components to be securely0;4.1 Connector and Fasteners 801.1 fastened and adequately interconnected to resist the loads 
0-82 Beam to Pile Connections 801.3 anticipated during flooding. FEMA 55 requires corrosion 
G-83 Floor to Deck Connections protection for connectors in xposed locations. SFM 
0-8.4 Exterior Wall Connections does not address corrosion protection.
0-8.5 Ceiling JoistRafter 

Connections 
0-8.6 Projecting Members 
(Pages G-5, 0-6) 

.Rscommczdadomt SFM should address corrosion protection of metal connectors. 

Sugerted Code Chage [or addition]: 

A15.4

Floodgin Ares 
Metal plates.connectors. sre, bolts,and nails exosed directly to the weather or subiect to salt corrosion in coastal areas 
shall be stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized, after thefastener or connector is abricated. 

SB-S 


StandardMechanical Code 

NFP SMC 

60.6 -Variances and Exceptions 302 NFIP requires the basement area, together with utilities 
60.6(c)(2)(i) Flood-Proof Wall 303 and sanitary facilities below the floodproofed design level,
to be watertight with walls that are impermeable to the


passage of water without human intervention. The SMC 
allows underflow installation but does not specify 
minimum elevations for equipment. This is addressed in 

602.1.2, 602.5, and Chapter 9 of the SBCCI Standard for 
Floodplain Management. 

Recommendadia The SMC should be revised to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

FEMA 54 SMC 

Mechanical Equipment 302 FEMA 54 requires all mechanical equipment to be
(Page 93, Paragraph 2) 303 elevated above expected flood waters, with indoor
components preferably installed in attics. The SMC
allows attic installation but does not specify minimum
elevations for equipment.


Recomenndaior These sections of the SMC should be revised to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain 

ManagemenL 

FEMA 55 SMC 

Chapter 4 -Structural Design Ch. 3 FEMA 55 requires all mechanical equipment to be
Section 4.3.6 Utilities 607 elevated above BFE, and fuel piping be on the leeward
(Pages 4-50 to 4-52) 607.3.1.5 side of columns/piers or enclosed in shaft. The SMC
302 allows attic installation of equipment, but does not specify


303 minimum elevations for equipment. The SMC requires 
fuel piping to be supported and protected from physical '9 
damage. 

Recommndatin: (1) For equipment location -the SMC should be revised to reference the SBCCI Standard for
Floodplain Management (2) for fuel pipe protection -None both address the issue only in different directions. FEMA


-prescnptive SMC -performance. 

5B-6



FEA 55 SMC 

Appendik G Sample Coastal 302 FEMA 55 requires all mechanical equipment to be 
Constructin Cod 303 elevated above expected flood waters. The SMC allows 

12. Utilities such installations, but does not specify minimum
(Page G4) equipment elevations.
Recommndadorn The SMC should be revised to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

FEMA IM SMC Anahsis 

Ch. IV Other Floodproofing 302 FEMA 102 requires mechanical equipment to be
Measures 303 elevated above BEFEor floodproofed'. Floodproofing


C. Utilities entails a watertight enclosure, with all penetrations into 
(Pages 99-105) the building pressure sealed. The SMC allows such 
installations, with proper access and clearance to 
combustibles. 

308 FEMA 102 requires mechanical exhaust fns discharging 
below the BFE to be protected y flood shields. The 
SMC requires exhaust to discharge outdoors at a point 
where it *ill not cause a nuisance" or 10 fL above a 
public walkway. 

Rcomendd 1) Rise SfC to reference the SBCCI Sandard for Floodplain Mianagemaent ) Revise FEM4A 
102 to reference the locally adopted model code for installation clearances. 

FEMA 102 SMC 

AppendixD Fodproofing 302 FEMA 102 requires that all mechanical equipment be 
Performance Cteria" 303 installed above BFE, or be enclosed in water-tight rooms. 
Part C Performance CriteraW The SMC allows elevated or enclosed installation but 
Criteria #6 Heating Air-Conditioning requires access and clearance to combustibles. 
& Ventilation 

(A) Location
(Page 192),
Recommwdada (1) Revise FEMA 102 to reference the local model codes for access and clearance. (2) Revise 
SMC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

5B-7



FEMA 102 SMC 

Appendix D lolodproofng 607 
Performance Criteria' 
Part C "Performance Criteria' 
Criteria #6 Heating Air-Conditioning 
& Ventilation 

(B) Heating and Air Conditioning 
(Page 192) 306.2 
Analys 

FEMA 102 requires that fuel systems below the BFE be 
equipped with automatic shutoff valves activated by rising 
water. The SMC would not require or prohibit such 
valves. 

FEMA 102 requires all heating equipment be vented to a 
level above BFE. SMC requires vent/chimney 
termination 3 ft. above roof and 2 ft. higher than any 

portion of the roof within 10 ft. 

Recommendadon. Revise SMC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

FEMA 102 

Appendix D Foodproofing 
Performance Criteria' 
Part C 'Performance Criteria" 
Criteria *6 Heating 
Air-Conditioning & Ventilation 

(C) Ventilation
(Page 193)
SMC 

307 

308 

Ch. 5 

Ch. 5 

510 

Recommendaiorv IIe SMC should be revised to reference 

FEMA Io SMC 
Appendix D Onoodproofing 
Performance Criteria" 
Part C *Performance Criteria" 
Criteria #6 Heating Air-Conditioning 
6C17 

FEMA 102 requires all ductwork located below BFE to 
slope to drainage openings. The SMC does not require 
conditioned air ducts to slope for drainage. 

FEMA 102 requires all ductwork located below BFE to 
be anchored against floodwaters. The SMC requires 
adequate support per SMACNA,or ASHRAE. 

FEMA 102 requires all penetrations of the building 
envelope by air ductwork to have a closure assembly. 
The SMC requires fire dampers at certain firewalls. 

the SBCCI Standard Floodplain Management. 

FEMA 102 requires that fuel tanks and lines to be 
located above BFE or anchored and protected from 
floodwater velocity/surge with a factor of safety of 1.5. 
The SMC allows installation of fuel storage tanks either 
inside or outside buildings but does not address uplift 
forces. The SMC states that the piping shall be 
protected from physical damage. 

& Ventilation 

(D) Fuel Tanks and LInes
(Page 193)
.Recommmndato The SMC should 
Management. 

reference tank location, uplift forces, and the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain 

5B-8



FEMA 114 ;ShC 

Ch. 9 Protection of Utilities Ch. 3 FEMA 114 requires utility connections to be above flood 

9.4 Permanent Protective Measures level shielding for basement appliances, elevated
(Pages 160-163) installation for exterior appliances, suspension for
underflcor equipment, and anchoring for fuel storage 
tanks. The SMC allows these ypes of installations but 
requires minimum clearances to combustibles and access 
which is ignored b FEMA 114. 

Recommedador (1) Change FEMA to reference locally adopted model codes for clearances to combustible 

materials and minimum access (2) changes the SMC to reference the SECCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

FEMA 114 SMC 

Ch. 9 Protection of Utilities 607 FEMA 114 requires anchorage of fuel storage tanks. 

9.8 Storage Tank Anchorage The SMC allows installation of fuel storage tanks inside 
(Page 166) or outside structures, but does not specifically address
uplift forces.


Recommendanon Revise the SMC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management and add a section 
of fuel tank anchorage. 

No. 85-1 SMC 

IY. Guidelines for implementation 302 No. 85-i requires that mechanical equipment either be 
A10 HVAC 303 elevated or enclosed for protection. The SMC allows 
(Page 11) enclosed installations, but does not specify minimum 
elevations for equipment 

Recomwndadomr The SMC should be revised to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

5B-9



FEMA8 SMC 
Recommendation #1 
(Page 3) 
Reconmendadom-Revise the SMC to rCh. 3 
eference the SNo. 88-4 requires location of elevator equipment above 
base flood elevation. The SMC allows such installation 
out coes not speciy minimum equipm 
BCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 
cut CCvUOUons. 
Sugested Code Change[or addition]: 
301.4 Equipment Installed in Floodplain Areas 

All mechanical equioment and related accessories installed in the regulatorv floodplain shall be installed to satisfy this code 
and the SBCCI Standard for Floodolain Management. 

Sugaeted Code Change [or addition]: 

607.4 Fuel Tanks 
Fuel storage tanks installed in the regulatory floodplain shall be installed above the base flood elevation or anchored and 
protected from uplift and forces due to velocitv/urge Pressure with a 1.5 or greater factor of safety. Fuel storage tanks and 
fuel supply lines shall be installed to satisfy the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain ManaeMent. 

5B-10



Studard Gas Code 

NFIP SGC 

60.6 -Variances and Exceptions Chapter 4 NFIP requires the basement area, together with utilities
60.c)(2)(i) flood-Proof Walls and sanitary facilities below the floodprocfed design level, 
to be watertight with walls that are impermeable to the 
passage of water without human ntervention. The SC 
defers to the SMC for access and clearance, but does 

specify minimum combustion air and venting criteria. 
Utility location and floodproofing are addressed in 

602.1.Z 602.5, and Chapter 9 of the SBCCI Standard for 
Floodplain Management. 
Recommendadon The SC should be revised to reference the SBCCI Standard for foodplain Management. 

FEMS4A SWc Anahsi 

Figure 4.48 Protective Utility C3s PEMA 54 requires gas piping serving an elevated
Shaft 308 structure to be installed on the leeward side of


(Page 92) post/columns or enclosed in a protective shaft. The SOC 
requires piping to be supported and allows a shaft 
enclosure. 

Reconmndation he SC should be revised to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

FEhlA 54 SOC 

Mechanical Equipment Ch. 4 FEMA 54 requires all gas-fired mechanical equipment to
(Page 93, Paragraph 2) 402.4 be elevated above expected flood waters with indoor


components preferably installed in attic. The SC defers 
to the SMC for acces and clearance, but does specifr 
minimum combustion air and venting criteria. Ductwork 
is covered in the SMC. 

Recommendion: (1) Revise FEMA to caution that fuel-fired equipment must be installed to local codes (2) Revise

SGC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management 

FEMA 55 SGC 

Chapter 4 -Structural Design Ch. 3, 308 FEMA 55 requires all gas-fired equipment 

to be elevated

Section 43. Uti=ies Ch. 4,,402.4 above expected flood water and gas piping to be installed 

(Pages 4-50 to 4-52) on the leeward side of posts/columns or enclosed in 
shafts. The SC defers to the SMC for access 
requirements, but does. specify minimum combustion air 
.and venting. Ihe SC requires piping to be supported 
-and would allow-the shaft. 

Recommendatin. (1) For elevation revise the SC to reference the SBCCI Standard for loodplain Management (2)

For fuel supply -revise FEMA to reference model codes for installation. 

SB-I



FEMA 55 SOC 

Appendix G Ch. 4 FEMA 55 requires all gas-fueled mechanical equipment 
"Sample Coastal Construction Code" to be elevated above flood waters. The SGC allows 
12 Utilities elevated installations but also requires minimum 
(Page G-8) combustion air and venting criteria. 

Recommendoion (1) Revise SOC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. (2) Revise FEMA 
55 to reference local model codes for installation. 

FEMA 102 SGC 

Chapter IV Other Floodproofing 402 FEMA 102 gas-fired mechanical equipment to be 
Measures 611 elevated above "FE" or "floodproofed." Floodproofing 

C. Utilities entails a watertight enclosures for equipment with all 
(Pages 99-105) penetrations of the building envelope pressure sealed. 
The SGC allows equipment enclosure with proper access. 
Adequate combustion air and proper venting. 

611 FEMA 102 requires exterior gas natural draft vents 
below BFE to be protected by flood shields. The SGC 
allows very limited exterior venting. 

Recommendation: (1) Revise the SGC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management (2) Revise 
FEMA 102 to reference the locally adopted model code for installation criteria. 

FEMA 102 SGC Ana 

Appendix D "Floodproofing Ch. 4 FEMA 102 requires that all gas-fired mechanical 

Performance Criteria 402.4 equipment be installed above BFE, or be enclosed in 
Part C "Performance Criteria" water-tight rooms. The SGC allows elevated or enclosed 
Criteria #6 Heating installation, but specifies minimum combustion air and 

Air-Conditioning and venting.
Ventilation


(A) LoCation
(Page 192)
Recommendation: (1) Revise SGC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. (2) Revise FEMA 
to reference locally adopted model codes for installation requirements. 

5B-12



FlA 102 SGC 
Appendix D Ploadproofing 
Performance Criteria 
Part C "Performance Criteria* 
Criteria #6 Heating 
Air-Conditioning & Ventilation 
(B) Heating and Air Conditioning 
(Page 192) 
Ch. 4 
Ch. 5 
Ch. 6 
6083 

FEMA 102 requires hat gas delivery systems installed 
below BFE be equipped with automatic shutoff valves, 
activated by rising water. Te SC would not require or 
prohibit such valves. 

FEMA 102 requires all gas heating equipment be vented 
to a level above BFE. The SC rquires natural draft 
gas vents to terminate aLeast 2 ft. above roof and 2 ft. 
above any pordon of the roof within 10 fL 

Recommendafen: Revise SGC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Foodplain Management. 

FEMA 1 SGC 
Appendix D lloodproofing 
Performance Criteria 
Part C Performance Criteria' 
Criteria #6 Heating 
Air-Conditioning & Ventilation 
(D) Fuel Tanks and Lines 
(Page 193) 
Ch. 3 
Ch. 9 

Reconmndaion (1) Revise SOC to reference the SCCI 
buoyancy forces on storage tanks. 

FEMA 114 SGC 

Ch. 9 Protection of Utilities Ch. 4 

9.4 Permanent Protective Measures Ch. 5 
(Pages 160-163) 
Recommendataon Revise SOC to reference the Standard 

FEMA 102 requires fuel storage tanks and lines to be 
locaLed above BEE or anchored and protected against 
floodwaters by a factor of safety of ES. The SOC does 
not address uplift forces on storage tanks. 

Standard for Foodplain Management; and address 

Section 904 of FEMA 114 requires utility connections to 

be above flood level, shielding for basement appliances, 
elevated exterior appliances, suspension for underfloor 
equipment and anchoring of fuel storage tanks. Thc 
SGC allows such installation but requires adequate 
combustion air and venting. 

for Floodplain Management. 

5B-13



No. 85-1 SOC Ana 
IV. Guidelines for Implementation 
A.10 HVAC 
(Page 11) 
Ch. 4 
Ch. 
No. 85.1 requires gas-fired mechanical equipment to be 
elevated or enclosed for protection. The SC allos 
enclosed installation but requires combustion air and 
clearances to combustible construction. 
Reoummndaion: The SOC should be revised to rfcrcncc the Standard for Floodplain Management. 
Sugeed Code Change [or addition]: 
301.1 Fuel SuoolV in Floodplain Areas 

All fuel-fired equipment installed in remulatory floodplain shall be installed to satisfy this Code and the SBCCI Standard for 
Floodplain Management. 

Sugfesred Code Change [or addition]: 

401.1 Installations of Fuel-fired Eguipment in the Floodplain 
All fuel-fired equipment installed in regulatory floodolain shall be installed to satisfv this Code and the SBCCI Standard for 
Floodplain Managernent. 
w 

5B-14



FEMA 114 SGC 

Ch. 9 Protectixa of Utilities Ch. 3 Section 9.8 of FEMA 114 requires anchorage of fuel 

9.8 Storage Tank Anchorage storage tanks. The Sgc does, not address uplift on LPG 
(Page 166) tanks. 
Recomnndao Revise SGC to address uplift on LPO storage tanks. 

Suggued Code Change [or addition]: 

903 Fuel Tanks 
Fuel storaze tanks installed in the reuulatorv foodolain shall be installed above the baseflood elevation or anchored and 

* protected fron uplift and forces due to velocitv/suree ressure with a 1.5 or greater factor ofsafetv. Fuel storage tanks and 
fuel sunly lines shall be istalled to satisfy the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain ManaerneQt. 
5B-15



StandardPlumbing Code 

NFIP SPC 

60.6 -Variances and Exceptions 301.12 NFIP requires the basement area, together with utilities 
60.6(c)(2)(i) Floodproof Walls 1204.1 and sanitary facilities below the fioodproofed design level, 
to be watertight with walls that are impermeable to the 
passage of water without human intervention. The SPC 
prohibits deleterious discharge of sewage or other waste 
and requires the water distribution system to be 
protected against backflow. Tis is addressed in 602.1.2 

602.6, 602.7, and Chapter 9 of the SBCCI Standard for 
Floodplain Management. 

Recommenda:on: Te SPC should be revised to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

FEMA 54 SPC 

Figure 4.48 Protective Utility 407 FEMA 54 requires water and DWV piping serving an 
Shaft elevated structure to be attached to the leeward side of 
(Page 92) posts/columns or enclosed in a protective shaft. The SPC 

requires piping to be protected from physical damage. 

Recommendaton: The SPC should be revised to reference the SBCCI for Floodplain Management. 

FEMA54 SPc 

Septic Tanks Appendix E FEMA 54 requires that septic tanks be floodproofed to 

(Page 93, Paragraph 3) 301.12 stop floating and potential discharge of effluent. The 
SPC requires proper installation and prohibits deleterious 
discharge. 

Recommendaion None since both approach the problem from different directions. FEMA -prescriptive SPC -
performance. The SPC should be revised to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management.


FEMA 55 SPC 

Chapter 4 -Structural Design 407 FEMA 55 requires water and DWV piping serving 
Section 43.6 Utilities elevated structures to be attached to the leeward side of 
(Pages 4-50 to 4-52) posts/columns or enclosed in a protective shaft. The SPC 

requires piping be protected from physical damage. 

Recommendation: The SPC should be revised to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

5B-16



FEMA 55 SPC 
Appendix0 
Sample Coastal Coastruction 
12 Utilities 
(Page08) 
Code 
301.10 
808 
Cb. 3 
FEMA 55 requires sanitary sewer and storm drainage 
systems wth openings below the BEE to have backflow 
valves where the lines pass through the building envelope. 
The SPC requires a backwater valve only where a 

drainage system may be subject to a backflow sewage. 

Rcomnndaiorr Revise the SPC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management and include specific 
criteria for the isolation of thes lines. 

FEMA 102 SPC 

Chapter IV Other Floodproofing 1302 FEMA 102 requires that backwater valves be installed on 

Measures 1308 the building sewer at a point where the piping is strong 

C Utilities enough to resist the flood induced pressures. A 

(Pages 99 -105) backwater valve is usually a swing-check valve. As an 

alternate, all gravity sewer openings below the BEE may 

be routed to a sump, then pumped above BEE lo the 
lowest entrance to the sewer (Figure IV -8). FEMA 
also requires wells to be equipped with a watertight 
casing that extends from one ft. above grade to 25 ft. 
below grade to minimize contamination The SPC would 
allow the backwater valve, but would prohibit the sump 
in situations where gravity sewer is available. (1308.1) 
The SPC does not address well construction. 

Recronenadorn (1) Revise SPC to reference the SECCI Standard for Floodplain Management. (2) Revise SPC to 
allow sumps and ejectors for flood areas even where gravity drainage is available. 

FEhA 102 SPC 

Appendix D "Floodproofing 301.10 FEMA 102 requires on-site sewage disposal systems O 
Performance Criteria" be designed to minimize floodwater effects. Sanitary 
Criteria #7 Plumbing Systems" sewer systems which must remain in operation during a 

(B) Sanitary Sewer Systems flooding event should be designed with a sealed holding 
(Page 193) tank sized at 150% of anticipated demand. All vents 
should extend above BFE. The SPC will allow, in limited 
instances, air admittance valves in lieu of venting 
termination above roof. 

Recommeda Rise SPC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management and to prohibit air 
admittance valves below BEE. 

FEMA 102 SEC 

Appendix D "Floodproofing 1204 FEMA 102 requires that potable water supply systems be 

Performance Criteria" protected from contamination during flooding. he SPC 
Part C 'Performance Criteria" rcquires protection of potable water. 
Criteria #7 Plumbing Systems" 

(C) Water Supply Systems 
(Page 193) 
5B-17



Recommndatim The SPC should reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

FEAd 102 

Appendix D Tloodproofing 

Performance Criteria" 
Part C "Performance Criteria" 
Criteria #7 Plumbing Systems" 

(D) Backflow Prevention 
(Page 193) 
sPc 
301.10 
Co 13 FEMA 102 requires backwater valves on storm drain, 
sewage and potable water supply fines installed at wells or 
building exits. The SPC allows such valves but only 
requires them for sewage backflow. 

Recommendaon: Revise the SPC to reference the SBCCI for Floodplain Management. 

MCRB 

Chapter Im Basement 
Construction 
(Pages 13-75) 
Chapter V Basements in Floods 
(Page 88126) 
Chapter VII Appendix A-Soils 

Data 
(Pages 164, 166) 
Chapter VI Builder's Guide 
(Pages 198, 206, 209, 211-262) 
Hydraulic/Hydrologic Manual 
(Pages 7-10) 

SPC 

301.12 The majority of the MCRB does not address plumbing. 
1204.1 However, III.B.8 does address plumbing materials, sewer 
systems; and potable water supply systems. MCRB 
requires gate valves on the sanitary sewer outlets from 

the house, and the potable water supply system to be 
designed in such a manner to prevent contamination 
from flood waters. The SPC prohibits deleterious 
discharge of sewage or other waste and requires the 
water distribution system to be protected against 
backflow. This is addressed in 602.6 and 602.7 of the 
SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

Recommendation: The SPC should be revised to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

5B-18



No. 85-1 SPC 

A11 Plumbing and Water Ch. 12 No. 85-1 Section A11 requires that interruptible water 
(Not in Scope) 1204 supply sources be protected from contamination by a 
(Page 12) check valve. The SPC does require backflow prevention. 

301.10 No. 85-1 requires a sealed holding tank for those disposal 
systems required to remain in operation during a flooding 
event. Sewage systems should have a manual valve or a 
backwater valve at building penetration. The SPC 
requires a backflow valve for sewage reversal ony. 
Recommendaion (1) Revise SPC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management; (2) Revise SC to add 
a principle for flood plain areas. 

N o 90-3 SPC 

Section D-2 N!A No. 9-3 requires utilities to be (1) above design flood or 

(Pages 16) (2) completely enclosed by the building's watertight walls 
or (3) be completely watertight. The SPC would not 
prohibit such installation, but only regulates size of space 
for setting fixtures. 

Reconmmndation: Revise SPC to reference the SBCCI Standard for Floodplain Management. 

Suggested Code Ch=ge [or addition]: 

301.23 Princitle No. 23 
AJI olumbing svsterms in the reaulatorv floodplain shall be installed to satisfv this Code and the SECCI Standard for Floodvlain 
Manazement. 
Sugested Code Chfge [or addition]: 

1308.1 Building Drai Bde1 Sewer 
Building drains which cannot be discharged to the sewer by gravity flow shall be discharged into a tightlycovered and vented 
sump from which the liquid shall be lifted and discharged into the building gravitydrainage system by automatic pumping 
equipment or by any equally efficient method approved by the Plumbing OfficiaL 

EXCEPTION: In the regulator' floodplain where ravity drainaee sewers are below the base flood elevation, a 
sump and ejector sstem satising this section and the SBCCI Standard for Floodolain Management may be used. 

Suggested Code Chnge [or addition]: 

1403.2.3 In reoulatvry floodDlain. all vent terminals shall be above the base flood elevation or nrotected in accordance with 
the SBCCI Standard for Floodolain Management. 

Suggested Code Chanr [or addition]: 

E1O1.4 All septic tanks installed in the reeulatorv floodolain shall be in conformance with both this Code and the SBCCI 
Standard for Floodplain Manaeement. 

53-19



FEMA S4 SPc 
Septic Tanks 
(Page 93, Paragraph 3) 
501.2 
602.7 
FEMA 54 requires septic tanks to be 
floodproofed to prevent the tank 
from rising out of the ground. 
FEMA 54 and SFM requires the 
tank to be designed to minimize or 
eliminate discharge of effluent into 
the floodwaters. 
Recomwmendsm SFM should address buoyancy forces on tanks. 
Suggested Code Change [or addition]: 
602.7 Sanitary Sewage Systems 

New and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to resist flotation and to minimize or eliminate infiltration 
of flood waters into the system and discharges from the system into flood waters. 

5B-20



Swndad for Floodplain Mawgemeaw 

FEMA 55 SFM 

0.8 Ancring St s 601.1 Both FRMA 55 and SFM all components to be securely 
G.1 Connector and Fasteners 801.1 fastened and adequately interconnected to resist the loads 
0-2 Beam to Pile Connections 8013 anticipated during flooding. FEMA 55 requires corrosion 
G83 Floor to Deck Connections protection for connectors in cxposed locations. SFM 
0-8A Eerior Wal Connections does not address corrosion protection. 
-8.5 Ceiling JoisRafter 

Connections
0-86 Projecting Members
(Pages 0-5, 0-6)


Recom mndauorcSFM should address corrosion protection of metal connectors. 

Sugsted Code Change [or addition]: 

1705.4 Fodiala Areas 
Metal plates, connectors. screws bolts. and nailsexwsed direct to the weather or subiect to salt corrosion in coastal areas 
shall be stainless steel or hot-divned Ralvanized, after the fastener or connector is fabricated. 

5B-21



FEMA 114 SFM 

9.8 Storage Tank Storage N/A FEMA 114 addresses the need for proper anchorage of 
(Page 166) tanks tc) prevent their flotation from the buoyancy forces. 
C1 I .1 

)es not address anchorage of storage tanks.
Recommendaion: SFM should address anchorage of storage tanks.


arm U% 

Sujgused Code Change [or addition]: 

602.8 Storafe Tanks
Storage tanks shall be roperly anchored to prevent movement and discharges from the tank into flood waters.
5B-22



No t8.i SFM Analysis 

Pages -5 801.1 Both No. 88-1 and SF4 address wind loads. No. 88-1
contains a reference to ANSI A58J.-1982. SM
references 1205 of the Standard Building Code which
contains, basic wind speed map, velocity pressure, and
coefficients in addition to referencing ASCE 7-8.


RecommendaionrNo. 88-1 should update reference to ASCE 7-8 and address snow and seismic loads. Section 

801.1 of the Standard for Floodplain Management should reference Chapter 12 instead of only 1205 (Wind) to
include 1204 (Snow) and 1206 (Seismic).
Sursad Code Change[or addition]: 

801.1 Anchoring 
AII new construction and substantial improvements within an area identified as a coastal high hazard area shall be elevated 
on pilings or columns in accordance with 80S., and securely anchored to resist flotation, collapse and permanent lateral 
movement due to the effts of wind, snow, seismic, and water loading values shall be that which equals or exceeds the 100 
year recurrence interval. Tbe minimum design vAd-ladeing -lu loads shall be that specified in Ssaioa-14Q Chapter 12 
of the Standard Building Code. 

5B-23



Recommended Changes to ICBO Documents 

FEMA-55 U.B.C. Analvsi 

4.2.2-Chapter23 and 26 FEMA-55 has a brief paragraph on the use of maonry andconcrete in 
Masonry Appendix Chapter corrosive envirornments. The U.B.C. has specific design requirements for 

23. Division V. concrete on corrosive environments but does not addressmasonry in 
similar situations. 
Recommendation: The U.B.C. should discuss the use of masonry in corrosive environments. 

Susasted Code Change: Section 2393 (e), first sentence. Revise as follows: When buildings or structures. ... components and 
the protection of all exposed elements from corrosion. Balance to renain unchanged. 

Also: Section 2394 (e), fist sentence. Revise s follows: When buildings or structures . ... and 
connection components to comply with the requiements of Section 2394 (d) and showine the 
protection of all elements from the effects of corrosion. Balance of paragraph to rerain 
unchanged. 

FEMA-55 U.B.C. Analysis 

4.2.3.1-Chapter 28 FEMA-55 discusses he protection of aluminum trim. windows. etc. in 
Aluminum Appendix Chapter corrosive environments. the U.B.C. does not address the use of ihese 

23. types of aluminum products in corrosive situations. 
Recommendation: The U.B.C. should address the protection of all materials exposed to corrosive environments in Appendix 
Chapter 23. -

Sunested Code Change: See suggested code change for 4.2.2. 

5C-1



FEMA-55 U.B.C. Analysis 

4.2.3.2-Chapter27 FEMA-55 discussesthe protection of exposed steelin corrosive 
Steel Sec.2310. environmentsandrecommendsregular inspectionandmaintenanceof seme. 
The U.8.C. doesnot discuss the protectionof steel memMbe. 

Recommendation: Seerecommendationfor Section 4.2.3.1. 

Sumested CodeChaune: Seesuggestedcode change for 4.2.2. 

FEMA-55 U.B.C. Analysis 

4.3.7- Sec. 1708 FEMA-55 discussestheprotectionof theinterior of a sticture from wind 

4.3.7.1 Sec. 2316 andwater action. The U.B.C. requiresthat openings below the baseflood 
4.3.7.2 Sec. 3201 elevation(BFE) be protectedandthatexterior assembliesprovidea 
4.3.7.3 Sec. 3205 weather-resistivebarrier. 
4.3.7.4-Sec.4203' 
Protectionof the AppendixChapter 
Interior 23, Division IV. 

Recommendation: The U.B.C. shouldaddresstheprotectionof openings abovethe BFE from wind and wateraction. 

Sunesed Code Change: Section2396. Add Subsection(g). (e) Protection of Onenins. Openingssubiectto wind driven rain and 
wave action shallbe watertightto Protectthe interior from water damaee. 

FEMA-& U.B.C. snalysis 

AppendixG.8 Appendix Chapter FEMA-55 requires that the entire structural system be tied together to 

Anchoring Standards 23. Division IV preventflotationcollapseor a permanentlateralmovementdueto a base
AppendixChapters floodeventconcurrentwith the one-hundred-year designwind velocity.
24 and 25. The U.B.C. requiresthat the structural systemof a building or structure


shall be tied togetherto resist the flotation. collapse,or permanent lateral 
movementdue to loads to flooding equalto the base flood elevation. 
Anotherprovisionrequiresthat thestructurebe designed andtied together 
to resistbasicwind speedsfrom S0 to 110 milesper hour. 

Recoutnzutdatilo: The U.B.C. should consider one-hundred-yeardesignwind velocitiesconcurrentlywith the base floor
elevationforces.


Suaested Code Chne: Section2396 (b). Revisefirst sentence as follows: and hydrostatic loadsandone-hundred-vear
design wind weeds.'


FEMA-55 U.B.C. AnsiYsi 

Appendix G.10 None. FEMA-53 requiresthat exterior openingsbe designedand detailedto 

Proectionof withstandhigh wind speedsandrecommendsadditionalprotectionsuch as 
Openings stormshutters. The Uniform BuildingCodehas no suchprovision. 

Recommstendatioa: The Uniform Building Codeshouldaddresstheprotectionof exterior openingsfrom wind and water action 
thatare above the base flood elevation. 

Suested CodeChanee: See suggested codechangefor 4.3.7. 

5C-2 


FEMA-55 

AppendixG 11.2 

Certification of 

Brekaway Walls 

Recommendation: 

Stnested Code Chvae: 

FEMA-54 

Steel 

Recommendation: 

Sumested Code Change: 

FEMA-I 14 

6.2 
Flood Wall 
Considerations 
Recommendation: 

Sunested Code Chasne: 

armstrongkspec-profima-doc 

U.B.C. Analvsi 
AppendixChapter 
23, Division TV. 
FEA-55 allowsthe use of brekaway walls designed fr greater loads 
than twenty pounds per square foot if designed by a licensed architect or 
engineer. The Uniform Building Code does not allow the use of 
breakaway walls that aredesigned above twenty pound per square foot. 

The Uniform Building Code should recognize that the design of breakaway walkSWith ahigher loads 
considered may be appropriateunder certain circurnstnces. 

Section 2396 (1). Add a sentence s follows: Higher breakawav wall loads may be used when aoroved by 
the buildine official. 

U.B.C- Analysi 

Chapter 1 FEhlA-54 discusses the protection of steel structural members that are 
Chapter27 exposed to a corrosive environment. The U.B.C. does not have a wepcific 
Appendix Chapter requirement for the protection of steel. Rther, it requires that a structure 
23, Division V. be maintainedin a safe condition which alsohas been interpreted as being 

protected from corrosive environments. 

The U.B.C. should address the protection pf steel structural elements specifically in Appendix Chapter 23, 
Division V. 

See suggested code change for 4.2.2. 

U.B.C. Ancivsis 
None. FENwA-114 discusses he use of flood-walls in the protection of residential 
structures. the U.B.C. requires that such buildings are elevated above the 
base flood elevation and has no provisions for such retrofitting of existing 
residernial structures. 

rTe U.B.C. should develop some provisions for the retrofitting of existing buildings or at least refer to 
approved national standards. 

Section 2396. Add Subsection (I) as follows: (h) Existia Buildings. Existine buildings may be 
floodoroofed usin2 flood walls, wet floodoroofing or other arnoved methods when approved by the 
building official. 

cds 

SC-3 


Recommended Changes to NFPA Standards
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE (NFFA 70)


moited. Wooden plugs driven into holes in masonry, concret 

FFMA-S NFP 0 AILLsis 
Service Mounting 
P. 92 
P. 93 
110-13 Swre mounting of utties and mechertical equipment ae addeusd 
in FEMA-54. NFPA 70 requires electic equipment to be scuryfacned o the unlace on which it is mounu 
Reconmmendauio: Revise EMA-54 to clariy tha elecdic equipnut shall be securely fastened to the surface on which it is 

plaster, or similar mateials shall not be used. Undergromdelecuic supply conduiw or cables should not be fastened to walls, or strucures iteded to brak-away wier flood comditions. 

Suggested Coda revisiou 
NFPA 70 (110-13(a 300-5(d)). 
Add th following snm: Buildings desipud wit breakaway walls shall have elecic services secured to the ides of intrior 

piles or within flood proof cclosres attached to indor poles. 

5D-1



Beensaded Champs to Meaduf d Howin Cod. a"d Standards 

198 Co O2TDC,AppmndtrC 

CMQ . C AMalysis 

460.3 CABO App. C does not contain any pecial provisions for the
installation of manufactured hne in flood hazard ares.
Recomwandation: CAO Appendix C uld be revised to includea refererce to the NFIP for imanuficured hoTne istalltion in

flood hazard areas. 

Suggested Code Change [or additln: Add o Appendix C Section C-l -Scope, as , I sentence: Refer to National Flood

Insurance P rm for installations ig flood hazard areas. 

.C

UA14 CAB An. Anls 

3.5 Extended foundation walls C-503. Appendix C itself does not cover foundation wlls; however Section C503.2refers 
to other provisions in CABO by ating that retaining wails 
used as permanent perimetr enclosure a" conform to the code 
provisions for foundation walls. Section -304, Foundation Wals, 
prescribes pecific designs for msonry, concrete and one foundation 
wall. [Reference Tables R-304.3a,3b.] None of the prescribed designs 
in the CABO Tables are usable to resin hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, or 
impact loads specified in FEMA 114. Hydraulic venting of the 
fundations. provided in FEMA 114, is noc seified in CABO. 

R-304.5 in CAB prescribes all wood foundation wal defigus. The 
conpaisons nosed above are applicable. 

Recommendation: Clarification is needed for the CABO tables to ae that dign bject to flood loads require special

consideration for such loads that have not been accommodated in the tabulated designs. 

Suggested Code Change [or ddition]: Add a seatnce to the end of 41-304.4: 

R-304.4DeIgn requred: ... acceptedengineeringpractices. otetat de ; ubect to flood loads ruire mecial consideration. 

Flood loads have not beenaccommodated in the deigns inTbles -344.3s nd R-304.3b. 

FEMA 114 GM, MAaS Analysis 

3.13 Technical design C-605 CAB C-6OSrequires that woodfloor wpport ystems. shall be fed to
criteria -Anchorage perimeter fdations in accordance with this code.-CABO Figure P-of superoucwre to 303 specifies the anchorage of millplates to concrete fundations using

foundation W'tboks. 6' oc. nuinmm. CAB Table R-402.3a specifies joists

secured to sills using 34d nails, toe nailed. No provision is nde to 
res hydrostatic Oft-offof the floor. 

Recommdation: Crification is needed in CABO C-605 ihat additlonal anchorage y be needed to resis hydrostatic ift in flood-

prone are". Refrece FE&A 25my maffice. 

Suggested Code Change [or addition]: In C40,add a enence that follows the second sentence in the second paragraph: 

. . . rerist the wind load sated in this code. Notethat additionalanchorse is needed to esist buoyancy dueto flooding in those 
areas here*oolicsble. 

SE-I 


CABO Ao. C Analysi 

3.14 Techni design C-602,C-63, CABO C-602 (Pier Construction) specificallyexcludes lateral wind and 
criteri -Open C604, C605 earthquake loads from consideration in the application of the piers 
foundatiom specified in this code. Note that the typical manufactured housing 
foundation system uses diagonalties that are secured to ground anchors 
for lateral load resistance. CABO C-603 (Height of Piers) specifies 
construction details for three height rangesof pier application. Each of 
these designs is to be used with the anchorsand ties specifiedin 
Sections C-604 and C-605 resectively. The eliability of ground anchors 

in flooded soils has not been demonstrated. It would be prudent at this 
time to specificallydisallow their use in the flood plains. 

Recommendation: Clarification is neededin CABO to caution that the round anchor system specified is generally notrated for 4 
fooding or fr high open foundations. 

Suggested Code Change (or addition]: At the end of IC-604.1,add: The use of und anchors is pennhited in the floodylain only 
when subsauntiatinedata re provided that satisfythe authority hvine iusridiction. 

FEMA e5 Analysis 

Pg. 22 Piers I C-602 a) FEMA S5 requires the bottom of the pier footing to extend a 
minimum of 30 in. below grade. CABO only requires the footings to 
extend a minimum of 12 in. below finished grade. Both require the 
footing to extend below the frost line. 

b) FEMA 55requires built-up piers to be laid with type M or S mortar. 
In addition to types M or S, CABO permits Type N mortar. No 
incompatibilities. 

Recommendations: Since the 30 inch requirementwould be excessive for piers located in anes where scouringis not a problem, two 
separaterequirements in FEMA S5 andCABO for miniusm pier depthsshould be made depending on the flow conditions likely to be 
encountered. 

Suggestd Code Change (or addition]: In IC-602,add to the at sentence ... wind, flood pressure.scourint. or earthquake forces. 

FEMA SS CABO Any -C Anlvsis 

Pg. 53 PoS aNdPiles CABO generally covers time-tetd construction methods. It does not 
cover sldom-used systeme machas posts or pile construction methods. 
The requirements are compatible as ln as it is understood that CABO 
Appendt C is not applicable to food loads. 

Racommendation: Change CABO Appendix C to clerify that it does not consider flood loads. 

Sugged Code Change [or addtionl: In SC-I, add to te lst senience... wind, flood pressure.scouring.or earthquake forces. 

5S-2 


Pemnm Foaoos Gidde 

HUD Handbook 4930.3 

HUD 4930.3

FEMA 114 H Anulsis 

3.5 Extended foundation wall. 102-C MUD 49 30 .3references FEhlA 155for manufactnred homes on elevated 
Standards foundatiom. 
201-2.B HUD 4930.3provides that homes built on elevated foundations must 
comply with rquirements of the NFIP and to refer to FEMA 85 for 
Manufactured Home InsllaUtion in Flood-Hazrd Areas. 

402 Chapter 4 in HUD 4930.3 maks no provision for the application of 
hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, or impact loads. 

Recommendation. Since provision is made for coastal wind force. in Section 402.3of HUD 49303,it is advisable to include in HUD 

49303either complete design provisions for flooding, or a notice that additional lateral, hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, and impact loads 
need to be included for foundation walls subjected to flooding. 

Suggested Change [or addition]: (a) Change 201-2.3.2to ad: Homea built on elevated foundation in communities that are part

of the Nationa Flood Insurance Program (NFIP must comply with the NFIP.


(b) Change 402-3.3to add item #3: If the site is in floodoblin. hdrostatic. hvdrodnamic. and imrract loads must be considered. 
Refer to FEMA 5 for uidance. 
FEMA 114 HUD 4930.3 Analysis 

3.12 Technical design App. H12 TheWind Speed Map, H-li, in HUD 4930 3corresponds with the 50criteria 
-Extended year rean recurence map in Figure C-5b of FEI{A 114. 
wall foundations 

App. HI The Flood Map. H-1, in HUD 4930.3 does not provide any provisions 
for hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, static loads. 

Recommendation: On the lood map in HUD 4930.3,it is necessary to include a notice to design for lateral, hydrostatic, 
hydrodynamic, nd impact loads for foundation walls ubjected to flooding. Reference to FEiA I5 will suffice. 

Suggested Change [or addition]: Revise the Flood Map on PageH-I to include the following: 

Note: 1. Consult with local Buildin, or Pnninz Office to determine whether home is in the floodlsin. 
. See MIA 85 for recommended hydrostatic hdrodvnamic. and iact loads to be solied to foundation wailssubject to 
flood. 

FEMA 114 HUDP42393 0.3ir 

3.13 Technical design criteria -App. B The designs in HUD 4930.3are apparenly to resist wind andgravityAnchorage of upermuczre loads oniy. No provision has been made for buoyancy. The loads given 
to foundation forvertical uplift in Table B2 of HUD 4930.3would be ample for 
approximately .7'water depth above the top of the foundation. 

Recommendation: ifrde a notice in Appendix B, Table I of HUD 4930.3thAt additional anchorage ay be required in areas 
subject to flooding i oeder to resist hydrostatic, ydrodynamic, andimpact loads. 

Suggested Change [or addition): Provide a note at he end of the first paragraph in Appendix B: 

Note: Additional anchonee may be ruired to resist hydrostatic. hvdrodvnamic.and impct loads in areas subiectto floodine. Refer 
to FEMA M. 

SE-3 


MA 114 HUD 4930.3 Analysis 

3.14 Technical deign criteria -203 HUD 4930.2identifies unstable clays' & a possible cause for 
Open foundations foundation inatability, while the FEMA 114 favors clay soilsfor their 
resistance to scouring. Thee provisions are inconpatible. 

Recommendation: Further research/study is reconmnended to reconcile the linits for foundations in clay soil. This study should be 
undertaken in a collaborative effort by HUD, FEMA, sad te manufactured housing indusuy. 

MA, 114 HUD 4930.3 Analysis 

6.2 Considerations 301-1 The provision in HUD 4930.3,-provide the beat availablerouting of runoff 
water to amre that buildinga or other iportam facilities will not be 
endangered by the path of a ma nergency flood nnoff which would 
occur if the site tom drainage i exceeded,' does not provide notice 
that this might require te u of flood wails. FEMA 114 discusses the 

fact that flood wall design is dependert upon the type of flooding 
expected. 

Recommeindation: In HUD 4930.3,Section 301-1,include a statenent that adequate flood walls provide one way to accomplish the 
rerouting of un-off water. 

Suggested Change for addition): Add a sentence to the end of p301-1; 

One way to acconlish reroutin. of run-off water in retrofittin isto ume flood walls. Refer to FEMA 114for exanales. 

new installation.

Note Flood walls are not f wete 

1£-s SA MM AGtfn¶ Anulvaim 

9.4 Pemunt protective rneasre Chapter 7 There i no provision in HUD 4930.3for flood protection of utilities. 
The overall emphasis of this publication is on structural aspects. The 
scopeof Chapter 7 (Final Check) is limited to foundation design. 

Recourendation: In HUD 49303,refer to FEMA 15 for home installations in flood-prone areas in order to provide protection of
utilities.


Suggested Chag or addition]: Add a Section 7004: 

:. od nroteeo of Utf.t-

For homec ubect to floodinz verifvthat o he been nade in the desien to protect utilities. Refer to FEMA 85 for 

mg4ous. 

HUD 43J Analyhis 

pg.4S Piers App. A FEMA 85 prscribes designs for pier, and cautions that, due to the 
likelihood of scouring, pier systemm should not be used in areas where 
flooding velocity is ainicipated. Appendix A of HUD 4930.3 
recormends Foundation Type C2 [reinforced masonry or concrete piersi 

for high wind and indicateI that engineering design is not-reuied. 
While the Flood-Prone Sites exclusions provided in Section 201-2 might 
be sufficient for sone designers, it seom prudent that it be repeated in 
the Appendices. 

Recotmaendation: The design appendices in HUD 4930.3 should repeat the references to the FEMA docurnents and caution that the 
designs presented have not taken flood conditions into account. 

Suggested Change (or addition): Add a sentence to Paragraph B. Page A-l: Note that none of the charted desius takes flood loads 
into account. Refer to FEMA 5 for design loads nd procedures. 

5E-4 


Mnfocmnd floing I-s iWa
Modelfrnalam Nawal INHI-MM)


pg. 17 Wind bazrds 4.42 FEMA 5 and MHI-Mid a not incomptible; FEMA S5 reiterates the 

5.4 same latersl and uplift design wind presures as the MHCSS. The 
5.4.1 requirements of MIl-MNI are based on he design wind loads in the 
5.4.2 MHCSS. 
Plea n, however, that Section S.4 in MMl-MIM sates tht, . heh. 
insaller should mcure te home gains the wind wzless ke ocal 
jurdcdon penniu a enm(re. (ebaia added) 

k cppea that FEMA 5 requires die choring of horne. against wind 
lods under all circusnces. 

Recommendation: h is not iended that a pankiipat in the NFP (i.e., local juridiction) would not require dial a home no be
anchored aginst wind loads. However, die compatibility of 6e documents would be etanced by. revision o MN] Section 5.4 
-su that aneborge of te unit ainst wind formeis always required.


Suggested Change [or additica: Change Paragraph S4 A hriq s. After blocking and leveling, the msller should 

cgre the home to relsite wind foeeuid in this manual or hieher wind fores if required by the authority havine jurisdiction. 

4.5 The MIff-MN providet list of inponra reference documents. The 
Manual for te Constuction of Ridemid Basements in Non-Coastal 
Flood Ejon is not included in the le. 

Recoiadation: Change the Lis of Inyortam Documenm' in M [I-MI Loinclude Manual for the Construction of Residential 
Basements in Non-Cosutal Flood Environ. 

Suggesed Code Change [or addition]: Add to the Ust of nportn Document' in MHI-MBA the following: Manual for the
Constuciion of Rtesidential BRasements in Non-CRoas Rood Environs.


AMY!A225.-1fl7
MarafnhcurdSceeIullatu )


(mA2254 

FWA 8 A= Analysis 

pg. 33 Design of olevated Appendix B FEtA and A225.1 use the roof live loads ad wind loads from the 

fions 1141 HUD MHCSS. A225.1 satan that areas where recurrent winds up to 90 
mila per hur 5 p) are experienced should u similary designed 
msifuctred homee. 

Romernda=: ANSI A2251 should defin he pecific assi wher wind londs of higher magnitude din ie 25 psf limit are 
needed. 

Suggesd Standad Chag [or addi;o]: Change Paragraph B4.1 The Wind Zone Map, last seantenceas follows: Consult theautority havingiurisdion. Now thatan larwed ole rv mao of Gulf and Atlaric Coal

Ie areas has been supplied in 
order Lomore rliab detemine the high wind zoes. Provide sach a map. 

5E-5 


FEMA m AMIIL 

pp 47z4 Vdtcel suppot membens Appendix B FEMA 5 provides design charts for dead load, live load, now load, and 
wind load calculations. The charts use snow and wind loads from the 
HUD MHCSS. (Homes manufactured since 1976 under the HUD 
Standardsare themselves certified to those loads) A225.1 uses the same 
live, snow, and wind loads asFEMA 83. 

Recommendation: Revise ANSI A225.1 Appendix R, to incorporate ASCE-7 snowand wind loa. 

Suggested Sandad Change [or addition): Add a Parmgapb:


Refer to FEMA 35for flood loading. he IQ in thee Tabies do not iclude loads atributble to floodin. 

&A 5 AulEis 

pg. 48 Pien Appendix C FEMA 85 prescribes desi for pien, and cautions that, due to the 
likelihood of scouring,pier systems should not be used in areaswhere 
flooding velocity is anticipated. Appendix C of A225.1 provides designs 
for pier foundations and iss. no cautions concerning scouring.(Note 
that overall A22S.1 is not for hores sited in flood-prone ares.) 

Recommendation: Appendix C of A225.1 should referencede FEMA documenots and caution that the designs presented have not 
taken flood conditions into account. 

Suggested Standard Chang [or addition): Add a paragraph after the introductory paragraph to Appendix C, secondcolumn: 

Refr to FEMA SS for flood deime anddein methods.'Mes desins do not include loads atributable to floodinl. 

MemurfiacnredRome Cceiraidox
and Safety Slard (MHCSS)


FEMA 114 MHCS Anal ir 

3.12 Technical design i3240305(c) Section 3.12ofFEMA 114 refers to Appendix C for design loads, which
criteria -Extended wall in turn refen to the the model building codes for deternination of
foundations wind loading characteristics. The wind design data presented in
Appendix C is not necessarilyin agreemnt with the wind design criteria 
in 13210.305(c)of the MHCSS. While 13210.305()(2)(r) statesthat 
HUD may establishmom stringent require in areaswith 125 mph 
andgreaterrecorded wind velocity, HUD hasnot been known to 
establish more stringent requirements thn those specifiedin 
13280.30S(c)12S pcf lateral, 15 prf uplift]. 

Recommendation: P`9960r Mwab/WY is reconmended to determine: a) if the wind design criteria in MHCSS is adequate for
arme of high wind wieity; and/or b) if songer recommendations agine sitg such homes in flood prom reas*ae in order. This
midy should be taisadan by UD and the au f housing industry.


5E-6 


MMCSS Analysis 

3.13 Technical deign f3210305(c) Section 3.13 of FEMA 114 covers the impomnce of the floor diaphragm 
criteria -Anborage of in maintaitig the sability ofthe foundation walls and cautions against 
superstuctre to fondation using connections that pull out if the underside of the foor i subjected 
to upward hydrostatic forces. Hydrosuiic forces an rnot covered in the 
HUD MHCSS. However, Zone El (hurricane) homes when designed in 

accordance with 13280.305(c)are connected to the steel franme-chassis 
so as to sastain 15 pif uplift. (Caution, this is rit sfficient for 
hydrostatic pressures in excess of 3' water column.) 

Recommendation: FEMA research on the effects of hydrostatic presaure on manufactured homes has remited in the requirement to 
elevate above BFE. If HD and the manufactured houaing industry were to embark on program tO et construction standards for 
homes sued in flood proe ara, a method of cetification similar to the wind zone map and label used in the present MHCSS needs 
to be devised to provide notice on the homes that identifies the ood intensity for which the hone is constructed. 

FEMA 114 MHCSS Analysi 

CA Wind loads 132190 .305(c)(1) MHCSS specifies that the wind design force for homes designated for 

and (2 Zone 1, non-hurricane, all be 15psf lateral and 9 psf uplift. and the 
wind design forces for Zone U. hurricane, hall be 25 psf lateral and 15 
psf uplift. In FEMA 114,wind zones are delineated in wind velocities 

(mph) according to the ANSI ASA map for 50-year recurrence. When 
applying the formulas from ANSI AI8.lthe resulting wind preasures in 
high wind zones may exceed the MHCSS minimum presures. 

13250.305(cX12)(ii)sates that HUD may establish more stringent 
requirements than those specified in 3210-305(c) for areas with 125 
Wh and greater wind velocities. 

Recomnwndation: Further researchistudy is recommended to deterine: a) if the wind design criteria in MHCSS is adequate for 
areas of high wind velocity; andlor b) if stronger recommendations against siting uch homes in flood prone areas are in order. This 
study should be undertaken by HUD and the manufactured housing industry. 

5E-7 


Re~mmeided Canges to the One and Two Family Dwelling Code 

NFIP OTnDC 
*603(c)(5) Flood Openins R-311 NFIP requires fully enclosed areas below te lowest floor, 
other than basements, to be provided iith flood opening 
to equalize hydrostatic flood forces. TFDC does not 
address floodplain management; however, it does require 

openings for crawl space ventilation. 

Recoonddon OTFDC should address openings for floodwater and equalize hydrostatic forces. 

Suested Code Change [or addition]: 

R-3115 Rodplain A elevated building that include fully enclosed areas formed bv foundation and other exterior walls, 
below the base flood elevation shall be desianed to allow for the entry and exit of floodwaters to automaticalv equalize 
hvdrostatic flood forces on exterior walls. Desizns for meeting this reauirement must either be certified by a Professional 
engineer or meet the followine minimum critena: a minimum of two opeuins having a total net area of no less than I sauare 
inch or every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding shall be rovided. The bottom of all ovenings shall be no 
higher than I ft above grade. Onenings may be eguipped with screens. louvers, valves or other coverinzs or devices. Erovided 
they permit the automatic flow of floodwaters in both directions. 

5F-1 


FEMA 55 OTFDC 

4.1.2 Salt Air Moisture and R-309 FEMA provides general discussion of the hazards of salt
Wind-Driven Rain R-404.14.1 air, moisture, and wind-driven rain on wood, nails, and
(Pages 4-7, 4-8) connectors. OTFDC requires wood subject to decay
damage to be naturally durable or pressure treated but 
does not address nails or connectors. OTFDC does 
address corrosion protection of joint reinforcement, 
anchor ties, and wire fabric for use in masonry wall 
construction. 

Reconnndaton-OTFDC should address corrosion protection. 

FEMA 55 OTFDC 

423.2 Steel R-403 FEMA 55 addresses the problem of corrosion of
(Page 4-11) R-605 unprotected steel shapes and anchoring devices (nails,
R-705.1 bolts, etc.) and the need for regular inspection, 
maintenance, and replacement of corroded metal parts. 
OTFDC requires the steel to comply with the 
appropriate standards. OTFDC does not address 
corrosion in coastal environment. 

Recommendton: OTFDC should address corrosion protection. 

Suggested Code Change or addition]: 

R402.3 Ciauckm: Exterior walls of wood-frame construction shall be in accordance with Figure Nos. R-402.3a and R402.3b. 
Components of exterior walls shall be fastened in accordance with Table No. R-402.3a. Walls of wood frame 
construction shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the NFoPA National Design Specification for Wood 
Construction," listed in Section S-26.402. 

Exterior walls shall be effectively braced with let-in bracing, plywood in accordance with Table No. R-4023b, particleboard 
in accordance with Table No. R-402.3c or other approved materials. 
Exterior walls subject to wind pressures greater than 30 pounds per square foot, as established in Table No. R-201.2, shall 
be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice. 
Metal plates. connectors, screws. bolts, and nails exposed directly to the weather or subject to salt corrosion in coastal 
areas shall be stainless steel or hot-dinoed galvanized, after the fastener or connector is fabricated. 

Sugeted Code COange(or addition]: 

SECTION R-605 -HMTAL 

Steel and aluminum structural elements shall be constructed of materials and designed in accordance with the AISC 
"Specification for the Design, Fabrication and Erection of Structural Steel for Buildings' and AASAS30, respectively, listed 
in Section S-26.605. Steel elements may be hot-rolled or cold-formed structural steel. Members shall be straight and free 
of any defects which would affect their performance. 

Structural steel exposed directly to the weather or subject to salt corrosion in coastal areas shall be hot-divoed calvanized 
after fabrication. 

5F-2



Suffested Code Changefor addition]: 

R-705.1 Steel eiement Steel structural elements in roof-ceiling construction may be either hot-rolled structural steel shapes 
or members cold formed to shape from steel strip or plate or a fabricated combination thereof. Members shall be straight 
and free of any defects which would significanty affect their structural performance. Steel structural members in roof-ceiling 
construction shall be designed in accordance with the AISC Specification for the Design, Fabrication and Erection of 
Structural Steel for Buildings" listed in Section S-26.705. 
Structural steel exnoed directly to the weather or subject to salt corrosion in coastal areas shall be hot-dipped 2alvanized 
after fabrication. 

SF-3



APPENDIX 1 

PROJECT PARTICIPANTS 

Project Committee 

Charman. G. Day Ding, California Polytechnic Institute 
Vice-Chzairmn:Earl L. Flanagan, Housing & Urban Designs 
Secrwy: Brad Douglas, National Forest Products Association 

Paul Armstrong, International Conference of Building Officials 
Earl R Bell, USDA Farmers Home Adminiswation 
Francis W. Biehl, Bieil Engineering, Inc. 
Peter L. Bolzer,. South Dakota Fire Marshal's Office 
Richard Dixon, Florida Dept of Community Affairs. 
William W. Dunlop, Code Consultant 

W. Robert Frost, State Fire Marshal's Office 
Hugh Jay Gershon, Hugh Jay Gershon, Architect, AlA 
Henry L. Green, State of Michigan 
Martin Jay Hanna, I, P.E., Hanna Fire Engineering Corp. 
Paul K. Heilstedt, P.E., Building Officials & Code Administrators Intl 
Dorsey D. Jacobs, West Virginia University 
Jerry W. Jones, Louisiana State Fire Marshall 
John H. Jones, CBO, CPCA Code Consultant 
Timothy A. Keptner, Pennsylvania Dept of Community Affairs 
Alvin Kleinbeck, State of Minnesota 
Richard P. Kuchnicki, Council of American Building Officials 
W. Max Lucas, University of Kansas 
Lance L. Luke,: Lance L. Luke & Associates, Inc. 
Francis A. Mancini, National Committee on Property Insurance 
Joseph J. Messersmith, Jr., Portland Cement Association 
John J. Mulady, United Services Automobile Assoc. 
James K Murphy, P.E., Dewbery & Davis 
Spencer hL Rogers, Jr., Sea Grant Marine Advisory Service 
Jon S. Traw, International Conference of Building Officials 
Frank Walter, P.E., Manufactured Housing Institute 
Leonard G. Wehrman, National Foundation of Manufactured Home Owners 
Joel P. Zingeser, AIA, Building Technology, Inc. 
21



Subcontractors 

Paul Armstrong, International Conference of Building Officials 
John Battles, Southern Building Code Congress International 
Gregory Cahanin, National Fire Protection Association 
Tom Frost, Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc. 
Billy Manning, Southern Building Code Congress International 
Kate McQueen, National Conference of States on Building Codes & Standards 

NIBS Project Staff 

Philip Schneider, AIA, Director of Technical Programs 

22



AA 

ACI 

AISC 
ANSI 
ASCE 
ASHRAE 
ASTM 
AWPA 
BCMC 
BFE 
BOCA 
CABO 
CFR 
FEMIA 
HUD 
HYAC 
ICBO 
LP 
LPG 
MCRB 
MHCSS 

APPENDIX 2
ACRONYMS


Aluminum Association 

American Concrete Institute 

American Institute of Steel Constuction 

American National Standards Institute 

American Society of Civil Engineers 

American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers 

American Society for Testing and Materials 

American Wood-Preservers' Association 

Board for the Coordination of the Model Codes 

Base flood elevation 

Building Officials and Code Administrators international 

Council of American Building Officials 

Code of Federal Regulations 

Federal Emergency Management Agency 

Department of Housing and Urban Development 

Heating, ventilating and air-conditioning 

International Conference of Building Officials 

Liquified petroleum 

Liquified petroleum gas(es) 

Manual for te Construction of Residential Basements in Non-Coastal Environs 

Manufactured Housing Construction Safety Standards 

23 


MHI 
MHIM 
NCSBCS 
NFIP 
NFPA 
NFoPA 
OTFDC 
SBC 
SBCCI 
SFM 
SGC 
SMACNA 
SMC 
SPC 
UBC 

Manufactured Housing Institute 

Manufactured Housing Installation Manual 
National Conference of States on Building Codes and Standards 
National Flood Insurance Program 

National Fire Protection Association 
National Forest Products Association 
One and Two Family Dwelling Code 

Standard Building Code 
Southern Building Code Congress International 
Standard for Floodplain Management 
Standard Gas Code 
Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors National Association 
Standard Mechanical Code 
Standard Plumbing Code 

Uniform Building Code 

24



APPENDIX 3


SUMMARIES OF NFIP FLOOD RESISTANT DESIGN STANDARDS
AND TECHNICAL GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS


National Flood Insurance Program Regulations for Floodplain Management and Flood Hazard 
Identification 44 CFR 59.1, 60.3 & 60.6) 

These three sections of the Federal regulations that govern the NFIP contain general flood resistant 
design standards (60.3), flood resistant design standards for basements (60.6), and associated 
definitions (59.1). These are the regulations that a community must adopt and enforce in order to 
participate in the NFIP. 

Coastal Construction Manual (FEMA-55) 

This document is applicable to new residential structures, principally detached single-family, attached 
single family (townhouses), low-rise (three story or less) multi family houses and similar sized non


residential structures in coastal areas of the United States. The manual is based on evaluation of 
existing beach houses, current construction practices along U.S. coastlines and various building codes 
applicable to construction. The document primarily addresses design of wood-frame structures for 
flood and wind resistance, and is meant to serve as a parallel to model building codes. The 
information presented is based upon values of forces and properties of materials taken from standard 
engineering references and conventional building codes. Generally, conservative approaches and 
values have been used to provide conformance with most applicable national building codes. A 
limited range of sizes and configurations for single-family residences has been assumed for purposes 
of establishing design criteria and tables. A sample building code is provided for local jurisdictions 
that wish to develop a coastal construction code to supplement their governing building code. 

Elevated Residential Structures (FEMA-54) 

This manual is limited to the special design issues confronted in elevated construction. Readers are 
assumed to have knowledge of conventional residential construction practice. The techniques 
described for te design and construction of elevated residential structures is based on accepted 
building practices. Generally, a conservative approach has been taken to ensure compliance with 
building codes most widely used in the United States. This document also contains a set of 
performance criteria applicable to all smrctural materials and construction methods used in flood 
hazard areas. Traditional or conventional solutions, as well as innovative techiques, are acceptable so 
long as the performance requirements and criteria are satisfied. 

25



Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Structures (FEMA-114) 

This manual describes the application of permanent retrofitting measures particularly elevation, 
floodwalls and closures that can be implemented in a residential structure to reduce flood damage. 
Elevation techniques described in the manual are not addressed in the model codes andstandards, 
however, the altered structure is treated by the codes as a new structure. 

Floodproofing Non-Residential Structures (FEMA-102) 

This document illustrates a broad range of floodproofing techniques that can be used to reduce flood 
damage to existing or proposed non-residential (industrial, commercial and institutional) structures in 
riverine flooding and flooding in no-wave velocity coastal areas. These structures range from wood-
frame to multi-story concrete and steel structures. Much of the information regarding design criteria, 
the properties of materials, the values of flood water design forces, and other considerations have been 
adopted from standard engineering references, building codes, and other documents. This manual is 
intended to serve as a general technical guide on the selection of alternative floodproofing techniques. 
Actual design and construction should involve the services of a registered professional engineer, 
architect or experienced contractor. An appendix provides floodproofing performance criteria for the 
design and evaluation of floodproofing measures. 

Manufactured Home Installation in Flood Hazard Areas (FEMA-85) 

This document primarily addresses techniques for elevating manufactured homes above anticipated 
flood levels. Chapter 1 states that siting and installation requirements for manufactured homes are 
generally a state or local regulatory responsibility and are not within the scope of the Manufactured 
Housing Construction Safety Standards (MHCSS). However, the MHCSS require the installation 

procedures be incorporated in the owner's manual supplied with each new manufactured home. 
Installation procedures in both the owner's manual and ANSI A225.1-82 are not considered adequate 
in cases where flood forces are anticipated. (This statement needs to be tested for ANSI A225.1-87.) 

Alluvial Fans: Hazards and Management (FEMA-165) 

This document contains very general guidelines for building in flood-prone areas on alluvial fans 
which are found in arid western regions. With the exception of provisions for window and door 
locations, these guidelines are covered in greater detail in the other FEMA publications. 

Design Guidelines for Flood Damage Reduction (FEMA-15) 

This document describes an overview of the flood regulatory program and site considerations. As it 
does not address design and construction, it will not utilized as a source of technical guidelines for this 
project. 

Manual for the Construction of Residential Basements in Non-Coastal Flood Environs 

This manual provides practical guidance and specific design options to assist in meeting the 
requirements of the NFIP for floodproofed residential basements. It is intended also as a tool for those 
called upon to certify that floodproofed residential basements meet the standards of the program. The 
manual presents two basic systems for waterproofing residential basements. One system envisions the 

26



use of conventional wall and slab surface treatments along with a total drain, sump, and pump 

operation to keep water away from basement walls. The other system envisions the use of a more 

water-tight wall and slab surface treatment without a sump or pump. A "builder's guide" is also 

included for use by contractors. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: Wet Floodprooflng, No. 85-1 

This document provides basic information concerning the application of wet floodproofing (intentional 

internal flooding) techniques to new and existing non-residential construction. Sections of the bulletin 

also address operational procedures to reduce vulnerability to damage. Guidance presented is the 

result of a review of state of the art and actual field experience with such techniques. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: Foundation Wall Openings1 No. 85-2 

Mis document addresses the structural requirements of a building's foundation system that may be 

subject to flood forces by placing a number of permanent openings in the foundation wall. The 

guidelines are applicable to solid load bearing walls which elevate the building or any type of 

enclosure constructed around the foundation. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: Breakaway Walls, No. 85-3 

This document addresses he design of breakaway walls defined as walls which are not part of the 

structural support of the building and are intended to collapse under specific lateral loads with causing 

damage to the building. Breakaway wall designs are based on the premise of connection failures. 

Breakaway walls may be used to enclose spaces below the flood elevation meant for parking of 

vehicles, building access and storage. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: Hurricane Damage Patterns: 
A Focus on Pile Foundations, No. 86-1 

This document represents an introductory approach to pile design and repeats information more 
thoroughly described in other publications. Thus, it will not be utilized for comparisons with codes 
and standards documents. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: Wind Design 
Standards and the NFIP, No. 88-1 

This document describes the application of ANSI A58.1 which describes wind loads and speeds. The 
document states that all three model building codes have adopted some version of this standard. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: Flood Resistant Materials, No. 88-2 

This document provides data and guidance on what constitutes materials resistant to flood damage and 
how they should be used to improve a structure's ability to withstand flooding. me most common use 
of this requirement is with regard to constuction below a structure's lowest habitable floor which is 

required to be elevated above the base flood elevation, and with applications of wet floodproofing. 
This requirement means that all construction below the lowest floor, which can be used for parking, 
building access and limited storage must consist of flood resistant materials in order to withstand 

27



inundation by flood waters. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: Free of Obstruction Requirement 

in Coastal High Hazard Areas, No. 88-3 

This document provides guidance on the NFEP requirement to keep the space below the lowest floor 

free of obstruction. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: Protection of Elevator Equipment 

in Flood Hazard Areas, No. 884 

This document provides an explanation of elevators, their related equipment, and practical methods of 
protecting them from flood damage. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: NFIP Pile or Column 

Requirement in Coastal High Hazard Areas, No. 90.1 

This document represents an introductory approach to pile design and repeats information more 
thoroughly described in other publications. Thus, it will not be utilized in for comparisons with codes 
and standards documents. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: NFIP Requirements for Below Grade 

Parking Garages in Flood Hazard Areas, No. 90-2 

This document provides technical guidance on the design of below grade parking garages in flood 
hazard areas. A below grade parking garage is an enclosed area below a building used for parking. 
The floor of the enclosed area is subgrade or below ground on all sides. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: Non-Residential Floodproofing 
Certification Requirements of the National Flood Insurance 
Program, No. 90-3 

This document details the design and construction considerations necessary to comply with the 
floodproofing certification requirements of the NFIP for non-residential structures. It also describes 
operation and maintenance procedures for floodproofing. 

Technical Standards Bulletin: Installation of Manufactured 
Homes in Special Flood Hazard Areas, No. 90-4 

This document provides the application of floodplain management regulations affecting the installation 
of manufactured homes and general technical guidance in constructing elevated manufactured home 
foundations. 

28



APPENDIX 4 

SJMMARIES OF MODEL CODES AND STANDARDS 

BOCA National Building Code (199) 

Thiscode controls all matters concerning the construction. alteration, addition, repair, removal, 
demolition, use, location, occupancy and maintenance of all buildings and structures. For this study 
the code addresses administration and enforcement (Chapter 1), height and area (Chapter 5), anchorage 
(Chapter 6), insulating materials (Chapter 9), structural considerations (Chapter 1), foundations 
(Chapter 12), construction materials (Chapters 14, 15, 17, 18 & 19), exterior walls (Chapter 21), glass 
(Chapter 22), and roofs (Chapter 23)'. Fire safety is covered in primarily in Chapters 5 and 9. Wind 
and seismic requirements are covered in Chapter L. 

BOCA National Fire Prevention Code (1990) 

This code applies to the hazards of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling or use of 
substances, materials or devices and from conditions hazardous to life, property or public welfare in 
the use or occupancy of buildings structures and sheds. For this study the code addresses 
floodproofing of underground storage tanks (Chapter 28). Seismic considerations are not explicitly 
addressed in this chapter. 

BOCA National Mechanical Code (1990) 

This code applies to the design installation, maintenance, alteration and inspection of mechanical 
systems, including, heating, ventilating, cooling, and steam and hot water heating systems, water 
heaters, process piping, and other systems. For this study the code addresses plenums and ducts 
(Chapters 3 and 5), hazardous and outdoor locations of mechanical equipment (Chapter 4), and 
floodproofing of water, gas and other fluid piping (Chapters 7, 8 & 9). Fire, wind and seismic 
considerations are not explicitly addressed in these chapters. 

BOCA National Plumbing Code (1990) 

This code applies to the design and installation of plumbing systems, including sanitary and storm 
drainage, sanitary facilities, water supplies, and storm water and sewage disposal in buildings. For this 
study this code addresses the floodproofing provisions for piping (Chapter 3), connections (Chapter 5), 
drainage piping (Chapter 6), manholes (Chapter 1), and water service (Chapter 15 and 16). Fire, 
wind and seismic considerations are not explicitly addressed in these chapters. 

BOCA National Property Maintenance Code (1990) 

Ts code applies to existing structures, residential and nonresidential, and on all existing premises by 
establishing minimum requirements and standards for premises, structures, buildings, equipment, and 
facilities for light, ventilation, space, heating, sanitation, protection from the elements, life safety, 
safety from fire and other hazards and for safe and sanitary maintenance. For this study the code 
addresses the exterior structure (Article 3) and mechanical equipment (Article 6). Fire, wind and 
seismic considerations are not explicitly addressed in these chapters. 

29 


Standard Building Code (1991) 

This code applies to the construction, alteration, repair, equipment, use, occupancy, location, 

maintenance, removal and demolition, of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected 
or attached to such buildings or structures. For this study the code addresses parking (Chapter 4), 
standby power and accessibility (Chapter 5 and Appendix 1), unusable space and open parking 

structures (Chapter 6), chutes and tanks (Chapter 7), chimneys, plumbing and plenums (Chapter 8), 
egress and exits (Chapter 11), structural requirements (Chapter 12), foundations (Chapter 13), masonry 
construction (Chapter 14), wood construction (Chapter 17), one and two family dwellings (Appendix 
C), and manufactured homes (Appendix H). Fire safety is covered in primarily in Chapters 6, 7, 8 and 

11. Wind, snow and seismic requirements are covered in Chapter 12. 
Standard for Floodplain Management (1989) 

This code provides criteria to meet the minimum, floodplain construction requirements as required by 
the National Flood Insurance Program. Fire, wind, snow and seismic considerations are not explicitly 
addressed in this document. 

Standard Mechanical Code (1991) 

This code provides minimum requirements for mechanical installations, including alteration, repair, 
replacements, equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances. For this study the code 
addresses under floor installations (Chapter 3), condenser and compressor units (Chapter 4), duct 

systems (Chapter 5), and piping (Chapter 6). Fire, wind, snow and seismic considerations are not 
explicitly addressed in these chapters. 

Standard Gas Code (1991) 

This code provides minimum requirements for installation of gas piping and appliances. For this study 
the code addresses meter location and piping (Chapter 3), air for combustion and ventilation (Chapter 
4), furnaces (Chapter 5), and butane and propane piping (Chapter 9). Although fire safety 
requirements are not explicitly stated, one of the purposes of the gas code is to prevent fires, 
particularly explosions. Wind, snow and seismic considerations are not explicitly addressed in these 
chapters. 

Standard Plumbing Code (1991) 

This code provides minimum requirements for plumbing installations, including alteration, repair, 

replacements, equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances. For this study the code 

addresses protection of pipes and sewage systems (Chapter 4 and Appendix E), traps and cleanouts 

(Chapter 7), hangers and supports (Chapter 10), water supply (Chapter 12), drainage systems (Chapter 

13), and storm drains (Chapter 15). Fire, wind, snow and seismic considerations are not explicitly 

addressed in these chapters. 

30



Uniform Building Code (1991) 

This code regulates and controls the design, construction, installation, quality of materials, use and 
occupancy, location. and maintenance of all buildings and structures. For this study, the code 
addresses definitions (Chapter 4), general requirements for all occupancies (Chapter 5), general design 
requirements of construction materials (Chapter 23), specific requirements for materials (Chapters 24 
through 28). foundations (Chapter 29), accessibility (Chapter 31) exits (Chapter 3:3), wall and ceiling 
coverings (Chapter 47), and excavations and grading (Chapter 70). Fire safety is primarily addressed 
in Chapters 5, 31 and 33, while wind and seismic requirements are addressed in Chapter 23 and its 
appendices. 

Uniforn Mechanical Code (1991) 

'his code regulates and controls the design, construction, installation, quality of materials, location, 
operation and maintenance or use of heating, ventilating , cooling, refrigeration systems, incinerators and 
other miscellaneous heat producing appliances. For this study, the code addresses heating, ventilating and 

*,, cooling equipment in general (Chapter 5), and refrigeration equipment (Chapter 15). Fire, wind and 
seismic considerations are not explicitly addressed in these chapters. 

Uniform Plumbing Code (1991) 

This code applies to tie erection, installation, alteration, repair, relocation, replacement, addition to, and 
use of maintenance of plumbing systems. For this study the code addresses drainage systems described in 
Chapter 4. Fire, wind and seismic considerations are not explicitly addressed in this chapter. 

NFPA 101 -1991 Life Safety Code 

'This code establishes the minimum requirements that will provide a reasonable degree of safety from fires 
in buildings. For this study the code addresses means of egress (Chapter 5), construction and 
compartmentalization and special hazards (Chapter 6), elevators and chutes (Chapter 7), specia structures 
and high-rise buildings (Chapter 30), and operation and maintenance (Chapter 31). Applicable code 
provisions for each new occupancy listed in the document (Chapters 8 through 29) are also part of the 
study. Wind and seismic considerations are not explicitly addressed in these chapters. 

NFPA 70- 1990 National Electrical Code 

This code addresses the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use 
of electricity. The code covers installations of electric conductors and equipment within or on buildings 
and manufactured homes. For this study the code addresses electrical service (Chapter 2), wiring 
(Chapter 3), lighting, motors, and transformers (Chapter 4), and emergency systems (Chapter 7). Fire, 
wind and seismic standards are not explicitly referenced, however, one of the purposes of the electrical 
code is the prevention of electrical fires. 

NFPA 54. 1988 National Fuel Gas Code 

For this study, this code offers general criteria for the installation of gas piping (Part 3) and gas 
equipment (Part 6). Although fire safety requirements are not explicitly stated, one of the purposes of the 
gas code is to prevent fires, particularly explosions. No specific wind or seismic standards are addressed. 

31



NFPA 58 -1989 Standard for the Storage and Handling of Liquified Petroleum Gases 

This standard applies to liquified petroleum gas(es) also known as LP-gas" and LPG." The gases are 
composed predominately of propane, propylene, butane and butylene by themselves or as mixtures. For 

this study the standard applies to the design and construction (Chapter 2), installation (Chapter 3) and 
operation (Chapters 2 and 3) of all LP-gas systems excluding natural gas processing plants, frozen ground 
containers, utility gas plants, chemical plants, and LP-gas used with oxygen of covered by other 

standards. Chapter 7 addresses buildings or structures housing LP-gas distribution facilities. Fire safety 
requirements are listed for certain kinds of operations and for the structures described in Chapter 7. No 
specific wind or seismic standards are addressed 

ANSI A225.1-1987 Manufactured Home Installations 

This standard covers the installation of manufactured homes on site and references fire safety 
requirements for the installation of manufactured homes. For this study, all chapters and selected 
appendices will be utilized. Chapter L describes the scope and intent of the document; Chapter 2 
describes installation standards. Chapters 3 and 4 reference, installation of plumbing systems and 
mechanical equipment, respectively. In Chapter 7, NFPA SOlA is referenced for fire safety 
requirements, and in Chapter 6, NFPA 70 is referenced for electrical systems. A wind zone map in 

Appendix B provides horizontal and uplift loads to be used in determining anchoring requirements. 
No seismic standards are referenced. 

Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards, Part 3280 

This standard covers all equipment and installations in the design, construction, fire safety, plumbing, 

heat producing and electrical systems of manufactured homes. For this study sections have been 

referenced on materials (304), structural design (305), windows (403), egress windows (404), heating, 

cooling and fuel burning systems (Part H), and electrical systems (Part I). Interpretative bulletins are 

also part of the study. Fire safety requirements addressing egress are found in section 404. Sections 

305 and 306 provide standards for anchoring and windstorm protection. Subsection 305 provides the 

same wind zone map found in ANSI A225.1-1987. No seismic standards are referenced. 

Permanent Foundations Guide for Manufactured Housing,49303 

This handbook provides guidelines on the design of foundations for manufactured homes. For this 

study sections have been referenced on flood-prone sites (Chapter 2), fill (Chapter 3), design loads 

(Chapter 4), and foundation design (Chapters 5 and 6). Appendices describes foundation design in 

more detail. Chapter 4 addresses wind and seismic considerations. 

Model Manufactured Home Installation Manual 

This manual contains detailed installation instructions, including specifications and procedures for 

erection and hookup of a manufactured home. For this study chapters have been referenced on 

foundations (Chapter 4), anchoring (Chapter 5), comfort cooling systems (Chapter 7) connections for 

water supply, drainage systems, gas supply, and electrical systems (Chapter 8), and oil tank 

installations (Chapter 8). Chapters 4 and 5 also provides guidelines for windstorm and flood 

protection. 

32 

*U.S. GOVERNMENFPJNIG OMC:199S"622-951593449 


NFPA OLA-1967 Standard for Fwresafety Criteria for Manufacture Home Installations, Sites 

and Communities 

This standard covers firesafety requirements for the installation of manufactured homes and 
manufactured homesites including accessory buildings, structures and communities. For this study 
sections have been referenced on gas supply connections and oil tank installations (Chapter 2), and life 
and firesafety (Chapter 4). In Chapter 3, NFPA 70 is referenced for electrical systems. No seismic 
standards are referenced 

CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code (1989) with 

1990/1991 Amendments 

The provisions of this code apply to the construction, prefabrication, alteration, repair, use, occupancy 
and maintenance of detached one- or two-family dwellings and one-family townhouses not more than 
three stories in height and their accessory structures. For this study the code addresses building 
planning (Chapter 2), foundations (Chapter 3), wall construction (Chapter 4), exterior wall coverings 
(Chapter 5), floor framing (Chapter 6), masonry chimneys (Chapter 9), mechanical systems (Chapters 
II through 17 & 19), and plumbing systems (Chapters 20, 22, 24 & 25). Seismic requirements are 
covered in Appendix A; wind requirements in Appendix B. Manufactured housing is addressed in 
Appendix C. Fire safety requirements are implicit in all chapters. 

33