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March 2, 2008
New Code coming soon, FYI
A big heads up to everyone as to what's going on over at Buildings. I went to the Construction Code presentation that the DoB gave at the Javits Center on Friday, as a way of introducing the new IBC to architects and engineers. The new code is becoming mandatory as of next summer, and is a complete overhaul of the code and permitting process from top to bottom (current code is now 40 years old).
The new code revamps basically any subject you’ll see posted about DoB procedure on this forum. Among the new approaches the City will have:
-Permit fees will depend on how green the proposed project is, with credits for water conservation, using recycled materials, etc.
-Certificate of Occupancy issues are revamped. You do not need to change a C of O if you are changing the number of bedrooms or habitable spaces in the new code.
-The MEA process is thrown out. You might not be familiar with this, but it is one of the biggest changes in the code. Basically any material or mechanical system in the city right now has to have an MEA number to be approved, a hugely cumbersome process. This is epic and it’s the change I am happiest about.
-Occupancy groups, building bulk, allowable construction type are not just changed but completely rethought.
The new code is actually in effect now, as an optional “grey” period where you can submit if you want. From what they outlined in Friday’s presentation, there are some serious advantages to using the new code even now. I wish I could be more specific but the presentation was just an introduction (although it was 5 hours) and I have not seen a copy of the new code myself.
Comments
Thanks for sharing, SmokyChimp. Should be interesting!
Posted by: denton at March 2, 2008 4:02 PM
Yes -- PVC waste lines can now be used in residential up to 4 stories, that was mentioned specifically. They did not discuss PEX materials, though, so I don't have an answer for that one.
Posted by: Smokychimp at March 2, 2008 4:28 PM
Hooray! Hooray! No more searching for M.E.A. numbers!
Posted by: guest at March 3, 2008 8:47 AM
MEA numbers are history? That IS good news!
Posted by: an architect in Brooklyn at March 3, 2008 9:16 AM
The new New York City 2008 code is available online if you dig through nyc.gov I think.
I attended the AIA New York Chapter class on this subject in February. Permits filed up to next summer can be grandfathered under the existing code, but after that, all permits have to follow the 2008 version. One more change of note: The fire rating requirement of the exterior walls will be determined by Occupancy, not building Construction type.
Vicki
Posted by: guest at March 5, 2008 12:31 AM
do you think that if i was going to file for a change of use for a commercial property (to change from a garage to a retail store) would be best if i did it before or after the code change?
Posted by: bkkitten at March 5, 2008 11:15 PM
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