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ICC 21 practice questions

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Question 1Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

The International Building Code states that its provisions apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure. Which buildings are expressly excluded from the IBC and regulated instead by the International Residential Code?

  1. Detached one- and two-family dwellings four stories above grade plane
  2. Detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses up to three stories Correct answer.
  3. Group B office buildings of two stories or less
  4. Group R-2 apartment buildings of any height

Explanation

The IBC contains a scope limitation stating that detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories above grade plane are regulated by the International Residential Code. All other buildings and structures fall within the IBC. Four-story dwellings exceed that limit and therefore remain under the IBC.

Question 2Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Which buildings fall within the scope of the International Residential Code?

  1. Detached one- and two-family dwellings three stories or less above grade plane Correct answer.
  2. Apartment buildings with four or more dwelling units
  3. Multiple single-family dwellings served by a common means of egress at any height
  4. Townhouses four stories above grade plane with a separate means of egress

Explanation

The IRC applies to detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress, plus their accessory structures. Buildings outside those limits are regulated by the International Building Code.

Question 3Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

A jurisdiction has adopted the International Existing Building Code. An owner proposes to reconfigure interior partitions and add a mezzanine in an existing Group M retail building. Which document governs the requirements for this work?

  1. The International Fire Code only, because the occupancy is unchanged
  2. The International Building Code only, because a mezzanine is new construction
  3. The International Property Maintenance Code, because the building is existing
  4. The International Existing Building Code, as adopted by the jurisdiction Correct answer.

Explanation

The International Existing Building Code governs repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition and relocation of existing buildings. Because the work is an alteration of an existing building, the IEBC provisions apply as adopted by the jurisdiction. The IBC new-construction provisions apply to the extent the IEBC references them.

Question 4Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

The International Energy Conservation Code addresses which of the following?

  1. Only commercial buildings, because residential buildings are regulated solely by the IRC
  2. Both residential and commercial buildings, including associated systems and equipment Correct answer.
  3. Only buildings that contain conditioned space and are open to the public
  4. Only buildings for which a certificate of occupancy is required

Explanation

The IECC contains separate residential and commercial provisions, and its scope covers residential buildings and commercial buildings together with the building sites and associated systems and equipment. It is not limited to public buildings or to buildings receiving a certificate of occupancy.

Question 5Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Under the International Building Code, who appoints the building official?

  1. The governor of the state
  2. The board of appeals
  3. The chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction Correct answer.
  4. The registered design professional responsible for the construction documents

Explanation

The IBC creates a department of building safety and provides that the building official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction. The building official then carries out the duties and powers assigned by the code.

Question 6Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Which inspection is specifically required by the International Building Code?

  1. Footing and foundation inspection Correct answer.
  2. Monthly inspection of all owner-provided design documents
  3. Inspection of the completed roof covering only after occupancy
  4. Annual inspection of fire extinguisher cabinets

Explanation

The IBC lists required inspections that must be performed by the building official, including footing and foundation inspection, concrete slab and under-floor inspection, lowest floor elevation inspection, frame inspection, lath and gypsum board inspection, and a final inspection. The footing and foundation inspection verifies support conditions before concrete is placed.

Question 7Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Under the International Building Code, a person who fails to comply with an order issued by the building official is subject to penalties. How is a violation that continues over multiple days treated?

  1. An infraction only when the building is occupied by the public
  2. A civil matter outside the scope of the code
  3. A separate offense each day the violation continues Correct answer.
  4. A single continuing offense until corrected

Explanation

The violation-penalties provision states that each day a violation continues after due notice has been served constitutes a separate offense. This allows penalties to accrue for continuing noncompliance. The code also authorizes prosecution and other remedies for violations.

Question 8Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Under the International Building Code, which of the following activities requires a permit?

  1. Constructing a 200-square-foot (18.6 m2) detached storage shed Correct answer.
  2. Painting the exterior siding of an existing single-family dwelling
  3. Replacing carpet in an existing bedroom
  4. Installing countertops in an existing kitchen

Explanation

A permit is required for construction of structures unless a specific exemption applies. The exemption for one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds is limited to those not exceeding 120 square feet (11 m2), so a 200-square-foot shed requires a permit.

Question 9Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Which of the following items of work is exempt from permit under the International Building Code?

  1. Interior painting, tiling and installation of countertops Correct answer.
  2. Installing a new fire suppression system in a Group A-2 restaurant
  3. Removing a load-bearing partition wall in a Group B office
  4. Erecting a 200-square-foot (18.6 m2) detached storage shed

Explanation

The code exempts exterior and interior painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops and similar finish work from the permit requirement. Work affecting structural members or fire protection systems is not exempt.

Question 10Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Under the International Building Code, when may a newly constructed building be occupied?

  1. After the building official issues a certificate of occupancy Correct answer.
  2. When the certificate of substantial completion is signed by the architect
  3. After the final inspection is scheduled, whether or not it passes
  4. When the contractor submits a written completion notice

Explanation

The code prohibits use or occupancy of a building until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy. The certificate is issued after inspection confirms that the building complies with the approved documents and the code. Private completion documents do not substitute for it.

Question 11Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

A tenant's designer wants to file for a permit to alter a leased office suite. Under the International Building Code, who may make the permit application?

  1. Only the owner of record, in person
  2. The owner or an authorized agent of the owner Correct answer.
  3. Any interested party, without the owner's involvement
  4. Only a registered design professional

Explanation

The code permits application by any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building. The applicant must first obtain the required permit before work begins.

Question 12Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Under the International Building Code, a permit becomes invalid if the authorized work is not commenced within what period after permit issuance?

  1. 1 year after permit issuance
  2. 2 years after permit issuance
  3. 180 days after permit issuance Correct answer.
  4. 30 days after permit issuance

Explanation

The code provides that every permit becomes invalid unless the work authorized is commenced within 180 days after issuance, or if the work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after it is started. The building official may grant extensions under stated conditions.

Question 13Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

When must construction documents be submitted to the building official for a project that requires a permit?

  1. Only after the permit has been issued
  2. Within 10 days after work begins on the site
  3. Only when the building official requests them during the final inspection
  4. With each application for a permit Correct answer.

Explanation

The code requires construction documents, special inspection and structural observation programs, and other data to be submitted in one or more sets with each permit application. The building official reviews them for compliance before issuing the permit.

Question 14Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Under the International Building Code, when shall the final inspection be made?

  1. At the start of the project, before any work is concealed
  2. Only if the building official has received a written complaint
  3. After the work is complete and before the building is occupied Correct answer.
  4. After the certificate of occupancy has been issued

Explanation

The final inspection is made after the building is complete, all required means of egress facilities are installed, and before the building is occupied; for alterations or repairs it is made after the work is complete. It precedes issuance of the certificate of occupancy.

Question 15Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

An existing Group B office is converted to a Group A-2 restaurant. Under the International Building Code, what is required before the space may be occupied as a restaurant?

  1. Only a stop work order issued by the building official
  2. Nothing further, because the building already holds a certificate of occupancy for its use
  3. Only a temporary certificate of occupancy for the office use
  4. A new certificate of occupancy reflecting the new occupancy classification Correct answer.

Explanation

The code prohibits a change in the existing occupancy classification of a building or portion of it until the building official issues a certificate of occupancy for the new use. The new certificate documents that the space complies for its new occupancy.

Question 16Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Under the International Building Code, when may utility connections be made to a building system for which a permit is required?

  1. When the permit application is submitted
  2. At any time chosen by the owner, since utilities are not regulated by the code
  3. After the building official has granted approval Correct answer.
  4. When the contractor notifies the utility company

Explanation

The service utilities provision prohibits connecting a source of energy, fuel or power to a building or system regulated by the code until the building official has granted approval. The building official is also authorized to disconnect utilities serving unsafe or noncompliant conditions.

Question 17Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

A building official observes a structural frame being installed contrary to the approved plans and issues a stop work order. What does the International Building Code require of that order?

  1. The order must be in writing and state the conditions to be corrected Correct answer.
  2. The order must be approved by the board of appeals before it takes effect
  3. The order is automatically stayed until a court rules on it
  4. The order may be given orally if followed by a letter within 30 days

Explanation

A stop work order must be in writing, must state the conditions under which the cited work may resume, and must be given to the owner, the owner's agent, or the person performing the work. Continuing work after the order is served constitutes a violation.

Question 18Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

According to the International Building Code, how are the codes and standards referenced elsewhere in the code to be treated?

  1. As requirements only when the owner volunteers to comply
  2. As part of the code's requirements to the extent stated in each reference Correct answer.
  3. As separate documents that never affect enforcement of the building code
  4. As advisory guidance that the building official may choose to enforce

Explanation

Referenced codes and standards are considered part of the requirements of the code to the prescribed extent of each reference. This makes standards such as those for materials, testing and construction methods enforceable through the code itself.

Question 19Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Under the International Building Code, how is the valuation of work used for permit fees determined?

  1. It is the assessed value shown on the county tax records for the prior year
  2. It is the contract price negotiated between the owner and the contractor, without adjustment
  3. It is determined by the building official and includes all work covered by the permit Correct answer.
  4. It is limited to the structural work described on the approved plans

Explanation

The building official determines the valuation of the work for which the permit is issued. The valuation includes the total value of all construction work, including finish work, painting, roofing, electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, elevators, fire-extinguishing systems and other permanent equipment.

Question 20Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Under the International Building Code, when may the building official enter a structure or premises to make an inspection?

  1. Only between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on business days, regardless of cause
  2. At reasonable times, when there is cause to inspect the structure Correct answer.
  3. Only after a court order has been issued, in all cases
  4. Only with the written consent of the owner, obtained in advance

Explanation

The building official is authorized to enter structures and premises at reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed by the code, presenting credentials and requesting entry when the premises are occupied. If entry is refused, the building official may use the remedies provided by law to secure entry.

Question 21Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

A designer proposes a construction method that departs from the code's prescriptive requirements but is supported by test data. How may the building official respond under the International Building Code?

  1. Reject it, because prescriptive code requirements can never be satisfied by an alternative method or material
  2. Refer it to the board of appeals, which must grant a variance
  3. Approve it only if the owner agrees to a lower permit fee
  4. Approve it if it matches the code's intent and is at least equivalent in the listed attributes Correct answer.

Explanation

The code authorizes the building official to approve alternative materials, designs, methods of construction and equipment where the proposed design is satisfactory, complies with the intent of the code, and is at least equivalent to the prescribed requirement in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety. Supporting research reports or tests may be required.

Question 22Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

A developer wants to begin foundation work before the full construction documents are complete. Which statement is correct under the International Building Code?

  1. A partial permit may be issued only after the board of appeals grants a variance
  2. A partial permit may never be issued for any portion of a building
  3. A partial permit may be issued, and the holder proceeds at its own risk Correct answer.
  4. A partial permit guarantees that the permit for the entire structure will be issued

Explanation

The code allows the building official to issue a permit for foundations or other parts of a building before construction documents for the whole structure are submitted, provided adequate information and detailed statements are filed. The holder proceeds at its own risk and without assurance that a permit for the entire structure will be granted.

Question 23Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

A board of appeals is asked to waive a code requirement because compliance would be very costly for the applicant. What authority does the board have under the International Building Code?

  1. It has no authority to waive requirements of the code Correct answer.
  2. It may waive any requirement by a unanimous vote of its members
  3. It may waive requirements only for buildings of Group R occupancy
  4. It may waive requirements when the applicant shows financial hardship

Explanation

Appeals must be based on a claim that the code's intent has been incorrectly interpreted, that the provisions do not fully apply, or that an equally good or better form of construction is proposed. The board has no authority to waive requirements of the code.

Question 24Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

The building official determines that an existing structure is unsafe because of inadequate means of egress. What action does the International Building Code authorize?

  1. The owner may continue occupancy by posting a bond equal to the permit fee
  2. The building official must obtain a board of appeals variance before acting
  3. The structure may continue in use until the next scheduled code adoption cycle has passed
  4. The structure shall be removed or made safe as the building official deems necessary Correct answer.

Explanation

Structures that are unsafe, unsanitary or deficient because of inadequate means of egress, inadequate light and ventilation, fire hazards, or other dangers to life or public welfare are deemed unsafe conditions. Unsafe structures shall be taken down and removed or made safe as the building official deems necessary.

Question 25Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

A tenant wants to occupy the first floor of a building while construction continues on the upper floors. How may the building official permit this under the International Building Code?

  1. By issuing a stop work order for the upper floors only
  2. By allowing the tenant to occupy the space without a certificate until all work is finished
  3. By issuing a temporary certificate of occupancy for the safe portion of the building Correct answer.
  4. By waiving the certificate of occupancy requirement for the whole building

Explanation

The building official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before completion of the entire work covered by the permit, provided the portion to be occupied can be occupied safely. The building official sets the time period during which the temporary certificate is valid.

Question 26Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Chapter 1 of the International Building Code states the code's purpose. Which statement best describes that purpose?

  1. To ensure every new building achieves the lowest possible construction cost for its owner
  2. To provide recommended design guidance that architects may follow as best practice
  3. To prescribe a uniform permit fee schedule that all jurisdictions must charge
  4. To set minimum requirements that safeguard public health, safety and general welfare Correct answer.

Explanation

The code is declared to be a set of minimum requirements necessary to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare. Those requirements address structural strength, means of egress, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation and similar objectives. Cost control, fee schedules and optional design guidance are not part of the stated purpose.

Question 27Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

A jurisdiction adopts the body of the International Building Code. Which statement correctly describes how the code's appendices apply within that jurisdiction?

  1. An appendix applies only if the jurisdiction specifically adopts it Correct answer.
  2. Appendices replace the corresponding chapters of the code text
  3. Every appendix applies in full as soon as the code itself is adopted
  4. Appendices apply only to projects that require special inspections

Explanation

Appendix provisions are model supplements and do not become law merely because the body of the code is adopted. A jurisdiction must take separate action to adopt any appendix it wants to enforce, and it may adopt some, all or none of them.

Question 28Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Under the International Building Code, who is authorized to render interpretations of the code and to adopt policies and procedures to clarify its application?

  1. The building official charged with enforcing the code Correct answer.
  2. The state fire marshal for every jurisdiction in the state
  3. The local board of appeals acting as a body
  4. The registered design professional of record for the project

Explanation

The building official is charged with enforcement of the code and is expressly authorized to render interpretations of its provisions and to adopt policies and procedures to clarify application. These interpretations must be consistent with the code's intent and purpose.

Question 29Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

Chapter 1 exempts detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses from the code's scope up to what maximum height above grade plane?

  1. Two stories above grade plane
  2. Four stories above grade plane
  3. Five stories above grade plane
  4. Three stories above grade plane Correct answer.

Explanation

The scope exception covers detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress, along with their accessory structures of the same limited height. Structures exceeding that height remain within the code's scope.

Question 30Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

A project requires special inspections. Who prepares the statement of special inspections that accompanies the permit application?

  1. The general contractor who will perform the inspected work
  2. The building official who reviews and approves the permit drawings
  3. The approved special inspector retained by the owner for the project
  4. The registered design professional in responsible charge Correct answer.

Explanation

The construction documents must include a statement of special inspections prepared by the registered design professional in responsible charge. That document identifies the items requiring special inspection and the applicable standards. The owner separately arranges for the approved special inspectors who perform the inspections.

Question 31Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

While construction is under way, where must the permit for the project be kept?

  1. In the design professional's file along with the calculations
  2. In the building official's records office with the approved plans
  3. At the contractor's business office, to be produced on request
  4. On the site of the work, available for inspection Correct answer.

Explanation

The permit must be kept on the site of the work so that it is available to the building official during inspections. Keeping it on site allows the inspector to confirm that the work being performed is within the approved scope.

Question 32Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

After a permit is issued, the building official learns that the application contained incorrect information about the proposed use. What action may the building official take?

  1. Charge a new application fee but leave the permit in force
  2. Route the matter to the board of appeals before acting
  3. Revoke the permit issued on incorrect information Correct answer.
  4. Let the permit stand, because an issued permit cannot be reexamined

Explanation

A permit may be suspended or revoked where it was issued in error or on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete information. The same authority applies where the work is proceeding in violation of the code, the approved plans or other applicable regulations.

Question 33Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

The building official has insufficient evidence that a proposed assembly meets the required fire-resistance rating and requires testing. Who bears the cost of that testing?

  1. The building department, paid from the fees collected for the project
  2. The testing laboratory, which spreads the cost through its accreditation
  3. The applicant, who must furnish evidence of compliance at its own cost Correct answer.
  4. The jurisdiction, because verifying compliance is an enforcement function

Explanation

Where the building official needs evidence of compliance, tests may be required and must be made at no expense to the jurisdiction. The cost therefore falls on the applicant, who submits the test results as part of demonstrating compliance.

Question 34Code Administration and Scope of the International Codes

A building official is considering a modification to a code requirement for one project because strict compliance poses practical difficulty. Which finding must support the modification?

  1. The modification will not lessen life safety or structural requirements Correct answer.
  2. The modification will shorten the construction schedule enough to reduce costs
  3. The board of appeals has already approved the identical modification for another project
  4. The owner has agreed to pay a higher permit fee in exchange for the exception

Explanation

Modifications for individual cases are permitted where practical difficulty makes the strict letter of the code impractical and the modification stays within the code's intent and purpose. The official must also find that the change does not lessen health, accessibility, life and fire safety, or structural requirements. Cost and scheduling advantages alone do not justify a modification.

Question 35Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

A 4,000-square-foot retail store sells clothing and has no hazardous storage. Which occupancy group applies?

  1. Group A-3
  2. Group M Correct answer.
  3. Group B
  4. Group S-2

Explanation

Group M is the mercantile occupancy group and includes buildings used for the display and sale of merchandise. The clothing store fits this description. Offices, storage, and assembly uses are classified elsewhere.

Question 36Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

A restaurant has 80 fixed seats and employs wait staff. Which occupancy group applies?

  1. Group B
  2. Group A-2 Correct answer.
  3. Group M
  4. Group A-3

Explanation

Group A-2 includes restaurants, cafeterias, and bars where food or drink is consumed. The presence of seated dining does not change the assembly classification. Business and mercantile groups do not apply to a restaurant.

Question 37Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

A public elementary school with 200 students is classified as which occupancy group?

  1. Group A-3
  2. Group I-4
  3. Group E Correct answer.
  4. Group B

Explanation

Group E is the educational occupancy group for buildings used by six or more persons through the 12th grade. An elementary school with 200 students fits Group E. Assembly and institutional groups do not apply to a conventional school.

Question 38Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

A multi-tenant building used for general offices and professional services is classified as which occupancy group?

  1. Group M
  2. Group R-2
  3. Group A-3
  4. Group B Correct answer.

Explanation

Group B is the business occupancy group and includes office buildings and professional service uses. General office work fits Group B. Mercantile, assembly, and residential groups do not apply.

Question 39Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

A 60-room hotel that provides transient lodging is classified as which occupancy group?

  1. Group R-2
  2. Group A-2
  3. Group I-1
  4. Group R-1 Correct answer.

Explanation

Group R-1 covers transient residential occupancies such as hotels, motels, and boarding houses. A hotel with 60 guest rooms fits Group R-1. Long-term residential and institutional uses are classified differently.

Question 40Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

Which statement describes Type V construction?

  1. Both exterior walls and structural elements must be noncombustible.
  2. Exterior walls must be noncombustible while interior framing may be combustible.
  3. Combustible structural elements are permitted throughout the building. Correct answer.
  4. Only heavy timber structural members are permitted.

Explanation

Type V construction permits combustible structural elements, including exterior and interior walls, floors, and roofs. Types I and II require noncombustible construction, and Type III permits combustible interior elements with noncombustible exterior walls.

Question 41Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

What is the required fire-resistance rating of the structural frame in Type I-A construction?

  1. 1 hour
  2. Not required
  3. 3 hours Correct answer.
  4. 2 hours

Explanation

Type I-A is the most fire-resistive construction type, and its structural frame must have a 3-hour fire-resistance rating. Lower-rated frames apply to Type I-B and Type II construction. A rating is always required for Type I-A.

Question 42Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

A private detached garage serving a single-family dwelling is classified as which occupancy group?

  1. Group B
  2. Group R-3
  3. Group U Correct answer.
  4. Group S-2

Explanation

Group U is the utility occupancy group and includes private garages, carports, sheds, and similar accessory structures. A detached private garage serving a dwelling fits Group U. Storage and residential groups do not apply to this accessory structure.

Question 43Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

A 12,000-square-foot building is occupied primarily by Group B offices. A 900-square-foot room within the same story stores low-hazard office supplies and is not separated from the offices. How should the storage room be classified?

  1. As an accessory occupancy to Group B Correct answer.
  2. As the principal Group S-2 occupancy of the building
  3. As a mixed-occupancy Group B and S-2 building
  4. As a separate Group S-2 occupancy requiring a fire barrier

Explanation

An accessory occupancy is ancillary to the principal occupancy and may not exceed 10 percent of the floor area of the story. The 900-square-foot room is 7.5 percent of the 12,000-square-foot story, so it may be treated as accessory to Group B without separation.

Question 44Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

A building is considered a high-rise when its occupied floor is located what distance above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access?

  1. 100 feet
  2. 50 feet
  3. 75 feet Correct answer.
  4. 120 feet

Explanation

The International Building Code defines a high-rise building as one with an occupied floor more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. The 75-foot threshold triggers additional requirements such as fire command centers and standby power.

Question 45Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

Using the IBC occupant load factor for business use, what is the occupant load of a 10,000-square-foot office area?

  1. 75 occupants
  2. 50 occupants
  3. 150 occupants
  4. 100 occupants Correct answer.

Explanation

The occupant load factor for business use is 100 gross square feet per occupant. Dividing 10,000 square feet by 100 yields an occupant load of 100. The result is used for egress sizing and other life-safety provisions.

Question 46Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

A fully sprinklered single-story building qualifies for an allowable area increase of up to what percentage under the IBC?

  1. 300 percent Correct answer.
  2. 250 percent
  3. 200 percent
  4. 100 percent

Explanation

For a single-story building equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, the allowable area may be increased by up to 300 percent. Multistory sprinklered buildings are generally limited to a 200 percent increase. The increase is applied to the tabular allowable area.

Question 47Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

Unless additional conditions are met, a mezzanine may not exceed what portion of the floor area of the room or story in which it is located?

  1. One-half
  2. One-third Correct answer.
  3. The full area
  4. Two-thirds

Explanation

A mezzanine is limited to one-third of the floor area of the room or story in which it is located unless specific exceptions permit a larger area. The limit keeps the mezzanine secondary to the main floor. Larger mezzanines may require the space to be treated as a story.

Question 48Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

A 40-bed skilled nursing facility where residents require assistance to evacuate is classified as which occupancy group?

  1. Group R-2
  2. Group I-1
  3. Group R-4
  4. Group I-2 Correct answer.

Explanation

Group I-2 includes hospitals, nursing homes, and similar facilities where occupants receive medical care and are incapable of self-preservation. A skilled nursing facility with 40 residents fits Group I-2. Residential and smaller care groups do not apply to this level of care.

Question 49Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

Type III construction is best described by which combination?

  1. Noncombustible exterior walls and combustible interior elements Correct answer.
  2. Noncombustible exterior walls and noncombustible interior elements
  3. Heavy timber exterior walls and noncombustible interior elements
  4. Combustible exterior walls and combustible interior elements

Explanation

Type III construction requires noncombustible exterior walls while permitting combustible interior structural elements. This combination distinguishes it from Type V, which allows combustible exterior walls, and from Types I and II, which are noncombustible throughout.

Question 50Building Planning, Occupancy Classification and Construction Types

In a building designed using the separated occupancies method, how are allowable height and area determined for each occupancy portion?

  1. All portions use the limits of the most hazardous occupancy.
  2. Each portion uses the limits for its own occupancy and construction type. Correct answer.
  3. All portions use the limits of the largest occupancy.
  4. All portions use the limits of the most restrictive occupancy.

Explanation

Under the separated occupancies method, each occupancy portion is evaluated independently for allowable height and area using its own occupancy classification and construction type. The portions must be separated by fire barriers with ratings from Table 508.4. This differs from the nonseparated method.