[HISTORY: Adopted by the Board of County Commissioners of Charles County 4-20-2010 by Bill No. 2010-08; amended in its entirety 5-14-2024 by Bill No. 2024-10. Subsequent amendments noted where applicable.]
(1) 
The 2021 International Building Code (IBC), the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC), the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), the 2021 International Existing Building Code (IEBC), the 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC), the 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC), the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC), the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) (Chapters 12 and 32 and Section 312 only), the 2021 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), published by the 2021 International Code Council, Inc. (ICC), copies of which are attached hereto and made part hereof by incorporation, are hereby adopted as written, collectively, as The Building Code of Charles County, and will take effect for all permit applications upon the effective date of this bill, with the following insertions, additions, deletions.
(2) 
The National Electrical Code (2020 edition) is hereby adopted as Charles County Electrical Code, and is incorporated herein.
(3) 
The terms "Building Official," "Mechanical Official," or "Code Official," as used under IBC, IRC, IECC, IFGC, IEBC, IMC, IPC, ISPSC, IFC, and IPMC shall mean and refer to "Building Code Official."
(1) 
IBC Section 101.1, insert "Charles County, Maryland" as name of jurisdiction. "Charles County, Maryland" is hereby inserted in all codes mentioned in these amendments as the jurisdiction name.
(2) 
IBC Section 101.2 "Scope," add:
Exception 2: Existing buildings undergoing repair, alterations, or additions and changes of occupancy shall be permitted to comply with the Maryland Building Rehabilitation Code as set forth in COMAR 09.12.58.
(3) 
IBC Section 101.2.1, replace in its entirety with the following:
The following appendices of the 2021 International Building Code are adopted into the Charles County Building Code:
(A)
Employee Qualifications,
(F)
Rodentproofing,
(G)
Flood-Resistant Construction,
(H)
Signs, delete all occurrences of NFPA70 and replace with Charles County Electric Code - National Electric Code (2020 edition),
(I)
Patio Covers, and
(K)
Administrative Provisions.
(4) 
IBC Section 101.4.3, Plumbing, delete without replacement the sentence: "The provisions of the International Private Sewage Disposal shall apply to private sewage disposal systems."
(5) 
IBC Section 101.4.5, Fire prevention, is removed and replaced as follows:
101.4.5 Fire prevention. Fire protection and safety practices shall be deemed to include the requirements of the Fire Code of the State of Maryland.
(6) 
IBC Section 103, for name of department insert "Planning and Growth Management" wherever it appears in this code and all other codes referenced in these amendments.
(7) 
IBC Section 105.2, Work exempt from permit, add under "Building":
14. Non-Habitable outbuildings for verifiable agricultural use on agriculturally zoned parcels of five acres or more.
(8) 
IBC Section 105.2, Work exempt from permit, add under "Building":
15. Tents and membrane structures that are open sided, with no cooking facilities contained within, for use less than 180 days, up to 2,400 square feet are exempt permits.
(9) 
IBC Section 105.2, Work exempt from permit, add under "Building":
16. Flagpoles not exceeding 20 feet are exempt from permits.
(10) 
Add IBC Section 105.6.1, Withholding permits:
105.6.1 Withholding permits. The Building Code Official may withhold the issuance of any permit (commercial, residential, or trade related) and/or place a hold on inspections if the applicant, the owner, or any individual listed on the application as a responsible officer (if the applicant is a business entity) has failed to remedy or correct any existing violation(s) in Charles County for which the applicant has been cited by any County agency or department.
(11) 
IBC Section 107.3.1, Approval of construction documents, remove the wording "Reviewed for Code Compliance" and replace with "Approved for Issue."
(12) 
Add IBC Section 110.1.1, Electrical equipment inspection:
110.1.1 Electrical equipment inspection. When performing inspections which require the inspector to examine energized equipment, where the removal of any covers are necessary, the master electrician and/or their qualified designee shall be present at the time of the inspection to perform such tasks and re-secure the equipment once the examination is completed.
(13) 
Add IBC Section 111.1, Change of occupancy:
111.1 Change of occupancy. A building or structure shall not be used or occupied in whole or in part, and a change of occupancy, owner or tenant of a building or structure or portion thereof shall not be made, until a new certificate of occupancy has been issued by the Building Code Official, certifying compliance with applicable parts of this code and other applicable state or local laws, ordinances and regulations. Issuance of a certificate of occupancy shall not be construed as an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. Certificates presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid. This provision shall not apply to a change of tenant for R-2, change of owner or tenant for R-3, or change of tenant for R-4 structures.
(14) 
Delete the entire IBC Section 113, Board of Appeals, and replace with Section 113, Appeals, which will replace all sections for appeals in all international codes adopted in these amendments. Section 113 will read as follows:
SECTION 113 APPEALS
113.1 General. In order to hear and decide the appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations of the Code Official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be an administrative policy created for such an appeal by the Department of Planning and Growth Management. This policy and procedure will be maintained by the Department of Planning and Growth Management.
113.2 Application. A written application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted by the Code Official. The appeal of the order, decision, or determination of the Code Official will be processed in writing through the Chief of Codes, Permits and Inspection Services, to the Director of Planning and Growth Management. This appeal must be filed within 180 days of the issuance of decision in question by the Building Code Official.
(15) 
IBC Section 114.4, Violation penalties, add the following statement: "If a violation continues unresolved past the notice date of the original violation letter, the Building Code Official, at his or her discretion, can issue weekly or monthly fines until the violation is brought into compliance. The Building Code Official must notify the person responsible for the violation in writing, or electronically, before the weekly or monthly fines begin."
(16) 
IBC Section 114, Violations, add a new Subsection 114.5 entitled "Public utility easement," to read as follows:
114.5 Public utility easement. No building or structure shall be erected upon any public easement. For the purpose of this subsection, a public utility easement shall be a parcel of land on which a limited right-of-way is provided for one or more designated purposes, such as but not limited to water, sewer, gas, electric, or telephone, without the title of the land.
(17) 
IBC Section 308.5.1, add Exception 1 to read: "A childcare facility may be classified as I-4 when the facility is classified as a day care occupancy under the State Fire Prevention Code."
(18) 
IBC Section 406.2.7, Electric vehicle charging stations and systems, delete the wording "Accessibility to electric vehicle charging stations shall be in accordance with Section 1107," without replacement.
(19) 
IBC Section 411.5, Puzzle room exiting, delete Item 3 and replace with:
3. All exit and exit doors from each puzzle room shall be open and readily available upon activation by the automatic fire alarm system, automatic sprinkler system, and a manual control at a constantly attended location and shall have a readily accessible control located inside each puzzle room.
(20) 
IBC Section 510.2, Horizontal building separation allowances, delete Condition 4 without replacement; Condition 7, replace "grade plane" with "lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access."
(21) 
Add IBC Section 808.1.1.3, Independent suspension:
808.1.1.3 Independent suspension. Light fixtures (luminaries), HVAC diffusers, return boxes, exhaust and circulating fans installed in acoustic ceilings shall require independent suspension to ensure that these components will not drop more than three inches when the framing members no longer provide the support number 12 WG wire firmly secured to the building structure and each component is required for this purpose. Two restraining wires (one at each opposite end of the luminare) are required for luminaries less than 2'x4' and four restraining wires (one at each corner) are required on all luminaries >4' and larger. Other types of lay-in fixtures and surface-mounted fixtures installed on drop ceiling shall be supported based on the fixture area to preclude the danger of falling when the framing members are removed (e.g., HI-HAT luminaire). HVAC components shall be supported in a similar fashion.
(22) 
IBC Section 901.1, Scope, add: "Fire protection system requirements of Chapter 9 may be concurrently covered in the State Fire Code, Public Safety Article, §§ 6-206 and 6-501, Annotated Code of Maryland, and COMAR 29.06.01. The State Fire Code is enforced by the State Fire Marshal or authorized fire official."
(23) 
IBC Section 907.2.1.1, Systems initiation in Group A occupancies with occupant load of 1000 or more, replace all references of "1000" in this section with "300."
(24) 
IBC Section 1001.1, General, add: "Means of egress requirements in Chapter 10 may be concurrently covered in the State Fire Prevention Code, Public Safety Article Title 6 and Title 9, Annotated Code of Maryland, and COMAR 29.06.01. The State Fire Code is enforced by the State Fire Marshal or authorized fire official."
(25) 
IBC Section 1004.8, Concentrated business use area, add "nail salons," after "call centers," and before "trading floors."
(26) 
IBC Section 1004.8, Concentrated business use area, add "nail salons" after "call centers" and before "trading floors."
(27) 
IBC Section 1011.5.2, Riser height and tread depth, delete Exception 3 and replace with the following:
3. In occupancies in R-3 as applicable in IBC 101.2, within dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, as applicable in IBC Section 101.2 and in occupancies in Group U which are accessory to an occupancy in Group R-3, the maximum riser height shall be 8 1/4 inches (210 mm) and the minimum tread depth shall be nine inches (229 mm). The minimum winder tread depth at the walk line shall be nine inches (229 mm), and the minimum winder tread depth shall be six inches (152 mm). A nosing not less than 3/4 inch (19 mm) but not more than 1 1/4 inches (32 mm) shall be provided on stairways with solid risers where the tread depth is less than 11 inches (279 mm).
(28) 
Remove Chapter 11 of the IBC related to accessibility requirements and replace with the Maryland Accessibility Code set forth in COMAR 09.12.53.
(29) 
Add the following to IBC Chapter 18, Soils and Foundations:
1803.5.3.1 Area of special geotechnical consideration. In the portion of Charles County designated as the "Area of Special Geotechnical Consideration" per the Planning and Growth Management map entitled "Area of Geotechnical Concern," soils and foundation support shall be excavated to a minimum depth of four feet below the final finished grade. Soil removed shall not be used as backfill for foundation walls or other structural fill. No large trees or woody vegetation with large root systems shall be located such that the drip zone for the tree is within five feet of the foundation wall. Applicants may provide a geotechnical report prepared by a professional engineer licensed in the State of Maryland in lieu of complying with the above requirements. All recommendations provided in the geotechnical report shall be incorporated as part of the permit and become a permit condition.
(30) 
Add the following to IBC Chapter 18, Soils and Foundations, Section 1808.5, Shifting or moving soils, "Minimum depth: All exterior footings or foundations located in the portion of Charles County designated as the 'Area of Special Geotechnical Consideration' per the Planning and Growth Management map entitled 'Area of Geotechnical Concern,' shall extend to a minimum of four feet below the finished grade. Applicants may provide a geotechnical report prepared by a professional engineer licensed in the State of Maryland in lieu of complying with the above requirements. All recommendations provided in the geotechnical report shall be incorporated as part of the permit and become a permit condition."
(31) 
Add the following to IBC Chapter 18, Soils and Foundations, Section 1805.4.3, Drainage discharge, "Concrete or masonry foundations: In the portion of Charles County designated as 'Areas of Special Geotechnical Consideration' per the Planning and Growth Management entitled 'Area of Geotechnical Concern,' foundation drains shall be installed and shall discharge at a minimum of 10 feet away from all foundation walls."
(32) 
IBC Section 2401.1, Scope, add: "The requirements for safety glazing set forth in Public Safety Article Title 12, Subtitle 4, Annotated Code of Maryland, are in addition to Chapter 24, Section 2406, of the IBC related to safety glazing. In the event of a conflict between Chapter 24 of the IBC and the Annotated Code of Maryland, the requirements of the Annotated Code of Maryland will prevail."
(33) 
IBC Section 2701.1, Scope, remove section and replace with:
2701.1 Scope. For the applicable electrical requirements, refer to the Charles County Electrical Code and National Electrical Code, 2020 Edition, [as adopted and enforced by the State Fire Marshal, authorized fire officials, or building officials pursuant to the provisions of the Public Safety Article, Title 12, Subtitle 6, Annotated Code of Maryland [and known as the "Charles County Electrical Code."].
(34) 
IBC Section 3001.1, Scope, add: "The provisions of Chapter 30 of the IBC relate to elevators and conveying systems and are in addition to and not instead of the requirements set forth in the Public Safety Article, Title 12, Subtitle 8, Annotated Code of Maryland. In the event of a conflict between the IBC and the Maryland Annotated Code, the provisions of the Maryland Annotated Code will prevail."
(35) 
IBC Section 3102.1, General, remove the sentence: "Those erected for a shorter period of time shall comply with the International Fire Code." Replace with the following sentence: "Those erected for a shorter period of time shall comply with the State Fire Code."
(36) 
Vacant commercial structures. Remove the IBC Chapter 34 in its entirety and replace with the following:
SECTION 3401 GENERAL
3401.1 Scope. The provisions of the Maryland Building Rehabilitation Code shall control the repairs, modifications, reconstruction, additions, and changes in occupancy to existing buildings.
SECTION 3402 VACANT COMMERCIAL STRUCTURES
3402.1 Scope. This section is to protect the public health, safety and welfare in all existing vacant commercial structures; fixing the responsibility of owners; and providing for administration, enforcement and penalties.
3402.2 Intent. Existing structures and premises that do not comply with these provisions shall be altered or repaired to provide a minimum level of health and safety as required herein. All vacant structures and premises thereof or vacant land shall be maintained in a clean, safe, secure and sanitary condition as provided herein so as not to cause a blighting problem or adversely affect the public health and safety.
3402.3 Existing remedies. The provisions in this code shall not be construed to abolish or impair existing remedies of the jurisdiction or its officers or agencies relating to the removal or demolition of any structure which is dangerous, unsafe and unsanitary.
3402.4 Saving clause. This code shall not affect violations of any other ordinance, code or regulation existing prior to the effective date hereof, and any such violation shall be governed and shall continue to be punishable to the full extent of the law under the provisions of these ordinances, codes or regulations in effect at the time the violation was committed.
SECTION 3403 NOTICES AND ORDERS
3403.1 Notice to owner or to person or persons responsible. Whenever the Code Official determines that there has been a violation of this code or has grounds to believe that a violation has occurred, notice shall be given to the owner or the person or persons responsible.
3403.2 Form. Such notice shall:
a.
Be in writing;
b.
Include a description of the real estate sufficient for identification;
c.
Include a statement of the reason or reasons why the notice is being issued; and
d.
Include a correction order allowing a reasonable time for repairs.
3403.3 Method of service. Such notice shall be deemed to be properly served if a copy thereof is (a) delivered to the owner personally; or (b) sent by certified or registered mail addressed to the owner at the last known address with return receipt requested. If the certified or registered letter is returned showing that the letter was not delivered, a copy thereof shall be posted in a conspicuous place in or about the structure affected by such notice. Service of such notice in the foregoing manner upon the owner's agent or upon the person responsible for the structure shall constitute service of notice upon the owner.
3403.4 Transfer of ownership. It shall be unlawful for the owner of any structure who has received a compliance order or upon whom a notice of violation has been served to sell, transfer, mortgage, lease or otherwise dispose of another until the provisions of the compliance order or notice of violation have been complied with, or until such owner shall first furnish the grantee, transferee, mortgagee or lessee a true copy of any compliance order or notice of violation issued by the Building Code Official and shall furnish to the Building Code Official a signed and notarized statement from the grantee, transferee, mortgagee or lessee, acknowledging the receipt of such compliance order or notice of violation and fully accepting the responsibility without condition for making the corrections or repairs required by such compliance order or notice of violation.
3403.5 Closing of vacant structures. If the structure is vacant and unfit for human habitation and occupancy, and is not in danger of structural collapse, the Building Code Official is authorized to post a placard of condemnation on the premises and order the structure closed up so as not to be an attractive nuisance. Upon failure of the owner to close up the premises within the time specified in the order, the Building Code Official shall cause the premises to be closed through any available public agency or by contract or arrangement by private persons and the cost thereof shall be charged against the real estate upon which the structure is located and shall be a lien upon such real estate.
3403.6 Notice. Whenever the Building Code Official has condemned a structure under provisions of this section, notice shall be posted in a conspicuous place in or about the structure affected by such notice and served on the owner or the person or persons responsible for the structure.
3403.7 Placarding. Upon failure of the owner or person responsible to comply with the notice provisions within the time given, the Building Code Official shall post on the premises a placard bearing the word "Condemned" and a statement of the penalties provided for occupying the premises or removing the placard.
3403.8 Prohibited occupancy. Any person who shall occupy a placarded premises and any owner or any person responsible for the premises who shall let anyone occupy a placarded premises shall be liable for the penalties provided by this code.
3403.9 Removal of placard. The Building Code Official shall remove the condemnation placard whenever the defect or defects upon which the condemnation and placarding action were based have been eliminated. Any person who defaces or removes a condemnation placard without the approval of the Building Code Official shall be subject to the penalties provided by the code.
SECTION 3404 DEMOLITION
3404.1 General. The Building Code Official shall order the owner of any premises upon such that it is unreasonable to secure from casual entry, meaning windows and doors boarded per Appendix A of the 2021 IPMC, and trash and debris removed within 30 days of the date of the notice from the Building Code Official, repair the structure, to raze and remove such structure within 90 days; or if such structure is capable of being made safe by repairs, to repair and make safe and sanitary within 90 days of the notice or to raze and remove at the owner's option; or where there has been a cessation of normal construction of any structure for a period of more than six months, to raze and remove such structure within 90 days of the date of the notice.
3404.2 Order. All notices and orders shall comply with Section 3410.
3404.3 Failure to comply. If the owner of a premises fails to comply with a demolition order within the time prescribed, the Building Code Official shall cause the structure to be razed and removed, either through an available public agency or by contract or arrangement with private persons, and the cost of such razing and removal shall be charged against the real estate upon which the structure is located and shall be a lien upon such real estate.
3404.4 Salvage materials. When any structure has been ordered razed and was removed through the Building Code Official due to the owner's failure to comply, the governing body or other designated officer under said contract or arrangement aforesaid shall have the right to sell the salvage and valuable materials at the highest price obtainable. The net proceeds of such sale, after deducting the expenses of such razing and removal, shall be promptly remitted with a report of such sale or transaction, including the items of expense and the amounts deducted, for the person who is entitled thereto, subject to any order of a court. If such surplus does not remain to be turned over, the report shall so state.
SECTION 3405 EXTERIOR STRUCTURE
3405.1 General. The exterior of a structure shall be maintained in good repair, structurally sound and sanitary so as not to pose a threat to the public health, safety or welfare.
3405.2 Failure to comply. If the owner of a premises fails to comply with a repair order within 90 days, the Building Code Official shall cause the structure to be repaired, either through an available public agency or by contract or arrangement with private persons, and the cost of such repair shall be charged against the real estate upon which the structure is located and shall be a lien upon such real estate.
3405.3 Exterior painting. All wood and metal surfaces, including but not limited to, window frames, doors, door frames, cornices, porches and trim, shall be maintained in good condition. Peeling, flaking and chipped paint shall be eliminated and surfaces repainted.
3405.4 Street numbers. Each structure to which a street number has been assigned shall have such number displayed in a position easily observed and readable from the public right-of-way.
3405.5 Structural members. All structural members shall be maintained fee from deterioration, and shall be capable of safely supporting the imposed dead and live loads.
3405.6 Foundation walls. All foundation walls shall be maintained plumb and free from open cracks and breaks and shall be kept in such condition so as to prevent the entry of rats.
3405.7 Exterior walls. All exterior walls shall be free from holes, breaks, loose or rotting materials; and maintained weatherproof and properly surface coated where required to prevent deterioration.
3405.8 Roofs and drainage. The roof and flashing shall be sound, tight, and not have defects that admit rain. Roof drainage shall be adequate to prevent dampness or deterioration in the walls or interior portion of the structure. Roof drains, gutters, and down spouts shall be maintained in good repair and free from obstructions. Roof water shall not be discharged in a manner that creates a public nuisance.
3405.9 Decorative features. All cornices, belt courses, corbels, terra cotta trim, wall facings and similar decorative features shall be maintained in good repair with proper anchorage and in safe condition.
3405.10 Overhang extensions. All canopies, marquees, signs, metal awnings, fire escapes, standpipes, exhaust ducts and similar overhang extensions shall be maintained in good repair and be properly anchored so as to be kept in a sound condition. When required, all exposed surfaces of metal or wood shall be protected from the elements and against decay or rust by periodic application of weather coating materials, such as paint or similar surface treatment.
3405.11 Stair and walking surfaces. Every stair, ramp, balcony, porch, deck or other walking surface shall be kept in a sound condition.
3405.12 Stairways, decks, porches and balconies. Every exterior stairway, deck, porch and balcony, and all appurtenances attached thereto, shall be maintained structurally sound, in good repair, with proper anchorage and capable of supporting the imposed loads.
3405.13 Chimneys and towers. All chimneys, cooling towers, smoke stacks, and similar appurtenances shall be maintained structurally safe and sound, and in good repair. All exposed surfaces of metal or wood shall be protected from the elements and against decay or rust by periodic application of weather-coating materials, such as paint or similar surface treatment.
3405.14 Handrails and guards. Every handrail and guard shall be firmly fastened and capable of supporting normally imposed loads and shall be maintained in good condition.
3405.15 Window and door frames. Every window, door and frame shall be kept in sound condition, good repair and weathertight.
3405.15.1 Glazing. All glazing materials shall be maintained free from cracks and holes.
3405.15.2 Openable windows. Every window, other than a fixed window, shall be easily openable and capable of being held in position by window hardware.
3405.16 Doors. All exterior doors and hardware shall be maintained in good condition.
3405.17 Basement, or crawl space hatchways. Every basement hatchway shall be maintained to prevent the entrance of rodents, rain, and surface drainage water.
3405.18 Guards for basement windows. Every basement window that is openable shall be supplied with rat proof shields, storm windows or other approved protection against entry of rodents.
(1) 
New IRC Subsection R101.4 is added as follows: "The provisions of Chapter 33, Safeguards During Construction, of the 2021 IBC, as adopted by Charles County, shall be applicable, inter alia, to all residential construction sites possessing a valid building permit."
(2) 
IRC Section R102.5, replace in its entirety with:
The following appendices of the 2021 IRC are hereby adopted into the Charles County Building Code.
(AA)
Sizing and Capacities of Gas Piping,
(AB)
Sizing of Venting Systems Serving Appliances Equipped with Draft Hoods, Category I Appliances, and Appliances Listed for Use with Type B Vents,
(AC)
Exit Terminals of Mechanical Draft and Direct-Vent Systems,
(AE)
Manufactured Housing Used as Dwellings,
(AH)
Patio Covers,
(AJ)
Existing Buildings and Structures,
(AK)
Sound Transmission,
(AM)
Home Day Care—R-3 Occupancy,
(AN)
Venting Methods, and
(AO)
Tiny Houses.
(3) 
R105.2, Work Exempt from Permit.
A. 
Under "Building," revise Subsection 10: remove the wording "are not attached to a dwelling" and replace with "not supported by attachment to a dwelling, or adjacent structure."
B. 
Under "Building" add Subsection 11: "Other than storm shelters, one-story detached accessory structures, provided the first floor area does not exceed 200 square feet, not to be used for automotive storage and does not serve a main egress of an existing structure."
(4) 
IRC Section R106, Construction Documents, add the following:
R106.1.6 Structural steel. The use of steel beams in residential construction shall be by engineered design only. In complying with industry standards, steel beams shall be supported by steel columns unless an engineered design specifies an alternative support.
(5) 
IRC Section 106.3.1, Approval of construction documents: Remove the wording "reviewed for code compliance" and replace with "approved for issue."
(6) 
R109.1.5, Other inspections, add:
R109.1.5.2 Deck footing inspection for decks. A footing inspection shall be required for all deck applications. Deck footing inspections shall be approved prior to the placement of concrete, and prior to the beginning of any framing that obstructs access to all footing excavations, such as the placement of beams and/or joists with a head clearance less than 4' above grade.
R109.1.5.3 Deck framing inspection. A separate deck framing inspection shall be required prior to installation of any surface decking, where any portion of the deck beams and/or joists (with the exception of landings and stairways) has a clearance of less than 4' above grade at any point under the deck. Trim boards and/or lattice work, which may obscure framing fasteners and connections, shall not be installed until the framing has been approved.
R109.1.5.4 Preliminary inspection.
A.
A preliminary inspection shall be required for all ledger supported decks. This inspection requires the exposure of the framing of the structure to which the ledger is to be attached, prior to the attachment of the ledger.
B.
For all fire, wind, water, earthquake, vehicle impact damage, and permits associated with violations, a preliminary inspection by the Building Code Official may be required for determining the status of the existing building before rebuild can begin.
R109.1.5.5 Energy efficiency inspection. The dwelling shall be inspected to determine compliance with the Maryland Energy Conservation Building Standards and compliance with Chapter 11, Energy Efficiency.
R109.1.5.6 Load path and wall bracing inspection. The load path and wall bracing inspection will include the wall bracing requirements in Section R602.10, Wall bracing, of the 2021 IRC and shall be approved prior to the application of house wrap, the installation of doors, windows, trim and application of any exterior wall coverings. Where the gypsum board (GB) method of wall bracing is used for interior braced wall lines, inspection of the drywall fasteners is required. The fastener inspection shall be approved prior to application of drywall tape and joint compound to any portion of gypsum board panels contributing to the specified length of interior braced wall lines.
(7) 
Add IRC Section R109.3.1, Electrical equipment inspection:
R109.3.1 Electrical equipment inspection. When performing inspections which require the inspector to examine energized equipment, where the removal of any covers are necessary, the master electrician and/or their qualified designee shall be present at the time of the inspection to perform such tasks and re-secure the equipment once the examination is completed.
(8) 
IRC Section R110.1, Use and occupancy, remove Exception 2 without replacement.
(9) 
IRC Section R110, add the following Subsection R110.6:
R110.6 Sale of one- or two-family dwelling. Prior to the consummation of the same (settlement) of any new one- or two-family dwelling, there shall be an inspection of the unit and premises by the Building Code Official and a certificate of use and occupancy issued or a list of the violations or deficiencies requiring correction prior to issuance of such certificate. At the time of consummation of such sale, the certificate of use and occupancy, or a list of the deficiencies or violations which remain to be corrected prior to issuance of such certificate, shall be presented to the buyer. Unless contractually relieved of such responsibility, the seller shall be responsible for correction of any violations or deficiencies necessary for the certificate to be issued. When a certificate of use and occupancy has not been issued prior to consummation of the sale, there shall be required a separate written contractual agreement indicating responsibility for correction of all deficiencies or violations cited by the Building Code Official by a date certain. The provisions of this subsection are not applicable when a new dwelling unit is purchased for resale as a new dwelling unit.
(10) 
IRC Section R202, Definitions, add:
COMPLETE LOAD PATH. A system of wood structural panels, metal connectors, tie rods or engineer design that provides a continuous connection of all exterior framing components from the roof of the building to the foundation capable of resisting wind uplift forces generated by the design wind speed as adjusted for the exposure category.
(11) 
IRC Section R301.2, Climatic and geographic design criteria, add the following to Table R301.2(7), Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria:
Ground Snow Load = 25 p.s.f.
Wind = 115 m.p.h.
Seismic Design Criteria = A
Weathering = Severe
Frost Line Depth = 24 inches
Termite = Moderate to Heavy
Decay = Slight to Moderate
Winter Design Temperature = 13 degrees F
Ice Barrier Underlayment required = Yes
Flood Hazards = Code of Charles County, Maryland, Chapter 238, Flood Damage Control
Air Freezing Index = 308
Mean Annual Temperature = 55.9 F
(12) 
IRC Section R311.7.5.1, Risers, delete "7 3/4 inches (196 mm)" and replace with "8 1/4 inches (210 mm)."
(13) 
IRC Section R311.7.5.2, Treads, delete "10 inches (254 mm)" and replace with "9 inches (229 mm)."
(14) 
IRC Section R311.7.5.2.1, Winders, delete "10 inches (254 mm)" and replace with "9 inches (229 mm)."
(15) 
IRC Section R313.1.1, delete text and replace with the following:
R313.1.1 Design and installation. Automatic residential fire sprinkler systems for townhouses shall be designed in accordance with NFPA 13D.
(16) 
IRC Section R313.2, One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire systems, remove "Exception" and replace with the following:
Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required for additions or alterations to existing buildings that are not already provided with an automatic residential sprinkler system; unless the proposed addition results in an increase in the existing square footage of the structure by more than 50%, or if the alteration will involve more than 70% of the existing square footage. The square footage of every room being added or altered shall be included in the calculation of total square footage for the addition or alteration. The entire square footage of an individual room shall be considered added or altered when more than 50% of the total linear length of a room's framing is new, removed, or replaced. If the addition exceeds 50% or the alteration exceeds 70%, it will be classified as a single-family dwelling and reviewed and inspected as such with automatic fire suppression retrofitted in the entire structure. Design and installation of automatic residential fire sprinklers system shall be in accordance with NFPA 13D.
(17) 
IRC Section R313.2.1, delete text and replace with the following:
R313.2.1 Design and installation. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 13D.
(18) 
IRC Section R403.1.4, Minimum depth, replace with the following:
"Unless otherwise located in the area of geotechnical concern (see applicable geotechnical requirements in § 224-1.1(29), (30) and (31) of these amendments), exterior footings shall not be placed less than 24" below the undisturbed ground surface. All deck and stair support posts shall bear on a minimum 16" x 16" x 8", or 18" round concrete footings. Footings within five feet of the existing house foundation, outside stairway walls, or similar structures, must be as deep as the footings of those structures to reach undisturbed soil or provide an engineered report from a Maryland licensed professional that the footing(s) meets all applicable code requirements."
(19) 
IRC Section R406, Foundation Waterproofing and Dampproofing, remove Section R406.1, Concrete and masonry foundation dampproofing, without replacement. Section 406.2, Concrete and masonry foundation waterproofing, remove the words: "In areas where a high-water table or other severe soil/water conditions are known to exist" and replace with "all."
(20) 
Add IRC Section R903.4.2, Discharge location.
R903.4.2 Roof drainage. Roof drainage leaders or extensions shall not discharge closer than 10 feet from any lot line so as not to be a nuisance to surrounding properties. Where the structure is less than 10 feet from the property line, the discharge points shall be the greatest distance possible from the property line.
(21) 
Modify IRC Section N1101.13.5, Additional energy efficiency, add:
4. For buildings complying with Section N1102.1.3.1, the structure shall also comply with the additional energy features in Section 1108.3.
(22) 
Modify IRC Section N1102.1.1, Above code programs. Add to the end of Section N1102.1.1, "Compliance with the silver rating of the ICC/ASHRAE, 700-2015 National Green Building Standard as codified in § 12-509(a) of the Annotated Code of Maryland shall be considered to be in compliance with this code."
(23) 
Modify IRC Section N1102.1.3:
A. 
Add new:
N1101.1.3.1 Maryland alternative R-value. Assemblies with R-value of insulation materials equal to or greater than that specified in Table N1102.1.3.1 shall be an alternative to the U-factor in Table N1102.1 when combined with Section N1108.3. The provisions of Section N1108.2.1 shall be applied to the base model house to establish the reference base design establishing energy efficiency.
B. 
Add the following table:
Table N1102.1.3.1 (R402.1.3.1)
MD Alternative Insulation Minimum R-Values and Fenestration Requirements by Componenta
Climate Zone
Fenestration U-FactorB, I
SkylightB U-Factor
Glazed Fenestration SHGCB, E
Ceiling R-Value
WOOD Frame Wall R-ValueG
Mass Wall R-ValueH
Floor R-Value
BasementC, G Wall R-Value
SlabD R-Value & Depth
Crawl SpaceC, G Wall R-Value
4 Except Marine
0.30
0.55
0.040
49
20 or 13 + 5H
8/13
19
10CI or 13
10CI, 4FT
10CI or 13
Table N1102.1.3.1 (R402.1.3.1)
MD Alternative Insulation Minimum R-Values and Fenestration Requirements by Componenta
5
0.30I
0.55
0.040
49
20 or 13+5H
13/17
30
15CI or 19 or 13 + 5CI
10CI 4FT
15CI or 19 or 13 + 5CI
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
CI = Continuous Insulation.
A. R-values are minimums. U-factors and SHGC are maximums. Where insulation is installed in a cavity that is less than the label or design thickness of the insulation, the installed R-value of the insulation shall be not less than the R-value specified in the table.
B. The fenestration U-factor column excludes skylights. The SHGC column applies to all glazed fenestrations. Exception: In climate zones 0 through 3, skylights shall be permitted to be excluded from glazed fenestration SHGC requirements provided that the SHGC for such skylights does not exceed 0.30.
C. "10CI or 13" means R-10 continuous insulation (CI) on the interior or exterior surface of the wall or R-13 cavity insulation on the interior side of the wall. "15CI or 19 or 13 & 5CI" means R-15 continuous insulation (CI) on the interior or exterior surface of the wall; or R-19 cavity insulation on the interior side of the wall; or R13 cavity insulation on the interior of the wall in addition to R-5 continuous insulation on the interior or exterior surface of the wall.
D. R-5 insulation shall be provided under the full slab area of a heated slab in addition to the required slab edge insulation R-value for slabs. As indicated in the table. The slab-edge insulation for heated slabs shall not be required to extend below the slab.
E. There are no SHGC requirements in the marine zone.
F. Basement wall insulation is not required in warm humid locations as defined by figure R301.1 and table R301.1.
G.The first value is cavity insulation; the second value is continuous insulation. Therefore, as an example, "13 & 5" means R-13 cavity insulation plus R-5 continuous insulation.
H. Mass walls shall be in accordance with section R402.2.5. the second R-value applies where more than half of the insulation is on the interior of the mass wall.
I. A maximum U-factor of 0.32 shall apply in climate zones 3 through 8 to vertical fenestration products installed in buildings located either:
1. Above 4,000 feet in elevation, or
2.In windborne debris regions where protection of openings is required by section R301.2.1.2 of The International Residential Code.
(24) 
Modify IRC Section N1102.2.1, Ceilings with attic spaces, with the following:
A. 
Add "or Section N1102.1.3.1" after "N1102.1.3" and before "requires R-49 insulation"; and
B. 
Add "or Section N1102.1.3.1" after "N1102.1.3" and before "requires R-60 insulation."
(25) 
Modify IRC Section N1102.2.2, Ceilings without attics, with the following:
A. 
Add "or Section N1102.1.3.1" after "N1102.1.3" and before "requires insulation R-values greater than R-30"; and
B. 
Add "or N1102.1.3.1" after "N1102.1.3" and before "shall be limited to."
(26) 
Modify IRC Section N1108, Additional efficiency package options:
A. 
Add new section:
N1108.3 Maryland alternative additional energy efficiency package options. The provisions of this section shall be applied as part of the prescriptive compliance path of Section 1102.1.3.1. Additional energy efficiencies from Table N1108.3 must be selected to meet or exceed a minimum percentage increase of 6% for Climate Zone 4 and 6% for Climate Zone 5."
B. 
Add the following table:
Table N1108.3 (R408.3) Additional Energy Features1
Energy Feature
Percentage Increase for Climate Zone 4
Percentage Increase for Climate Zone 5
1
> 2.5% Reduction in Total UA5
1%
1%
2
> 5% Reduction in Total UA5
2%
3%
3
> 7.5% Reduction in Total UA5
2%
3%
4
0.22 U-Factor Windows5
3%
4%
5
High Performance Cooling System (Greater Than or Equal to 18 SEER and 14 EER Air Conditioner)2
3%
2%
6
High Performance Cooling System (Greater Than or Equal to 16 SEER and 12 EER Air Conditioner)2
3%
3%
7
High Performance Gas Furnace (Greater Than or Equal to 96 AFUE Natural Gas Furnace)2
5%
7%
8
High Performance Gas Furnace (Greater Than or Equal to 92 AFUE Natural Gas Furnace)2
4%
5%
9
High Performance Heat Pump System (Greater Than or Equal to 10 HSPF/18 SEER Air Source Heat Pump)2
6%
6%
10
High Performance Heat Pump System (Greater Than or Equal to 9 HSPF/16 SEER Air Source Heat Pump)2
5%
5%
11
Ground Source Heat Pump (Greater Than or Equal to 3.5 COP Ground Source Heat Pump)2
6%
8%
12
Fossil Fuel Service Water Heating System (Greater Than or Equal to 82 EF Fossil Fuel Service Water-Heating System)
3%
2%
13
High Performance Heat Pump Water Heating System Option (Greater Than or Equal to 2.9 UEF Electric Service Water-Heating System)
8%
6%
14
High Performance Heat Pump Water Heating System (Greater Than or Equal to 3.2 UEF Electric Service Water-Heating System)
8%
6%
15
Solar Hot Water Heating System (Greater Than or Equal to 0.4 Solar Fraction Solar Water-Heating System)
6%
6%
16
More Efficient HVAC Distribution System (100 Percent of Ductless Thermal Distribution System or Hydronic Thermal Distribution System Located Completely Inside the Building Thermal Envelope)
10%
12%
17
100% of Ducts in Conditioned Space (100 Percent of Duct Thermal Distribution System Located in Conditioned Space as Defined by section R403.3.2)
12%
15%
18
Reduced Total Duct Leakage (When Ducts are Located Outside Conditioned Space, the Total Leakage of the Ducts, Measured in Accordance with R403.3.5, Shall be in Accordance with One of the Following:
A. Where Air Handler is Installed at the Time of Testing, 2.0 Cubic Feet Per Minute Per 100 Square Feet of Conditioned Floor Area
B. Where Air Handler is Not Installed at the Time of Testing, 1.75 Cubic Feet Per Minute Per 100 Square Feet of Conditioned Floor Area)
1%
1%
19
2 ACH50 Air Leakage Rate with ERV or HRV Installed (Less Than or Equal to 2.0 ACH50, with Either an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) or Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) Installed)3
10%
13%
20
2 ACH50 Air Leakage Rate with Balanced Ventilation (Less Than or Equal to 2.0 ACH50, with Balanced Ventilation as Defined in Section 202 of the 2021 International Mechanical Code)4
4%
5%
21
1.5 ACH50 Air Leakage Rate with ERV or HRV Installed. (Less Than or Equal to 1.5 ACH50, with Either an ERV or HRV Installed.)4
12%
15%
22
1 ACH50 Air Leakage Rate with ERV or HRV Installed. (Less Than Equal to 1.0 ACH50, with Either an ERV or HRV Installed.)4
14%
17%
23
Energy Efficient Appliances (Minimum 3 Appliances Not to Exceed 1 Form Each Type with Follow Efficiencies. Refrigerator - Energy Star Program Requirements, Product Specification for Consumer Refrigeration Products, Version 5.1 (08/05/2021), Dishwasher - Energy Star Program Requirements for Residential Dishwashers, version 6.0 (01/29/2016), Clothes Dryer - Energy Star Program Requirements, Product Specification for Clothes Dryers, Version 1.1 (05/05/2017) and Clothes Washer - Energy Star Program Requirements, Product Specification for Clothes Washers, Version 8.1 (02/05/2018)
7%
5%
24
Renewable Energy Measure.4
11%
9%
1.
Energy efficiency percentage increases as established by PNNL.
2.
For multiple cooling systems, all systems shall meet or exceed the minimum efficiency requirements in this section and shall be sized to serve 100 percent of the cooling design load. For multiple heating systems, all systems shall meet or exceed the minimum efficiency requirements in this section and shall be sized to serve 100 percent of the heating design load, increases to minimum efficiency requirements are limited to one selection.
3.
Minimum HRV and ERV requirements, measured at the lowest tested net supply airflow, shall be greater than or equal to 75 percent sensible recovery efficiency (SRE), less than or equal to 1.1 cubic feet per minute per watt (0.03 M3/min/watt) and shall not use recirculation as a defrost strategy. In addition, the ERV shall be greater than or equal to 50 percent latent recovery/moisture transfer (LRMT).
4.
Renewable energy resources shall be permanently installed that have the capacity to produce a minimum of 1.0 watt of on-site renewable energy per square foot of conditioned floor area. The installed capacity shall be in addition to any onsite renewable energy required by section R404.4. to qualify for this option, one of the following forms of documentation shall be provided to the Code Official:
A.
Substantiation that the RECS associated with the on-site renewable energy are owned by, or retired on behalf of, the homeowner.
B.
A contract that conveys to the homeowner the RECS associated with the on-site renewable energy or conveys to the homeowner an equivalent quantity of RECS associated with other renewable energy.
C.
Reduction in total UA from lines 1, 2 or 3 and higher performance windows from line 4 are limited to a single selection.
(27) 
IRC Section P2904 to be removed and replaced with "Section P2904, Dwelling Unit Fire Sprinkler Systems. The design and installation of residential fire sprinkler systems shall be in accordance with NFPA 13D."
(1) 
Add a note to IECC Section C101, Scope and General Requirements: "Additional requirements concerning energy conservation for buildings and structures may be required by the Energy Conservation Building Standards, Public Utilities Article, § 7-401 — 7-408, Annotated Code of Maryland, as amended."
(2) 
Add a note to IECC Section C405.2.5, Specific application control:
For the new construction of hotels:
A.
Each hotel guest room shall be equipped with a master control device that automatically turns the power off to all lighting fixtures in the guest room no more than 20 minutes after the room has been vacated; and
B.
A master control device may also control heating, ventilation, or air conditioning default settings in hotel guest rooms 20 minutes after a room has been vacated by:
i.
Increasing the set room temperature by at least 3 degrees Fahrenheit when in the air conditioning mode; or
ii.
Decreasing the set temperature by at least 3 degrees Fahrenheit when in the heating mode.
(3) 
Modify IECC Section R102.1.1, Above code program. Add to the end of Section R102.1.1, "Compliance with the silver rating of the ICC/ASHRAE 700-2015 National Green Building Standard codified in § 12-509(a) Public Safety Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland shall be considered in compliance with this code."
(4) 
Modify the IECC Section R202 to add the following definitions:
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV). An automotive-type vehicle for on-road use, primarily powered by an electric motor that draws current from an onboard battery charged through a building electrical service, electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), or another source of electric current.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE SUPPLY EQUIPMENT (EVSE). Apparatus installed specifically for delivering electricity from the premises wiring to an electric vehicle.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE READY PARKING SPACE. A dedicated parking with electrical panel capacity and full circuit installation of a minimum 40-ampere, 208/240-volt circuit, raceway wiring, a NEMA 14-50R receptacle, and circuit overcurrent protection devices to enable future installation of EVSE.
EVSE-INSTALLED PARKING SPACE. Means a parking space with electric vehicle supply equipment that is fully installed from the electrical panel to the parking space.
LEVEL 2 CHARGING. Means that the charging capability of the electric vehicle supply equipment:
(I)
Includes the ability to charge a battery or any other energy storage device in an electric vehicle through means of an alternating current electrical service with a minimum of 208 volts; and
(II)
Meets applicable industry safety standards.
(5) 
Modify the IECC to add Section R401.4, Electric vehicle charging:
R401.4 Electric vehicle charging. Single-family detached houses, duplexes, and townhome units that include a separate garage, carport, or driveway shall include not less than: (i) one electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) installed parking space capable of providing at least level 2 charging; or (ii) one electric vehicle ready parking space in or on the garage, carport, or driveway.
(6) 
Modify IECC Section R401.2.5, Additional energy efficiency, add:
4. For buildings complying with Section R402.1.3.1, the structure shall also comply with the additional energy features in Section R408.3.
(7) 
Modify IECC Section R402.1.3 R-value alternative with the following:
A. 
Add new:
R402.1.3.1 Maryland alternative R-value. Assemblies with R-value of insulation materials equal to or greater than values specified in Table R402.1.3.1 shall be an alternative to the U-factor in Table R402.1.2 when combined with Section R408.3. The provisions of Section R408.2.1 shall be applied to the base model house to establish the reference base design establishing energy efficiency.
B. 
Add the following table:
Table R402.1.3.1
MD Alternative Insulation Minimum R-Values and Fenestration Requirements by ComponentA
Climate Zone
Fenestration U-FactorB, I
SkylightB U-Factor
Glazed Fenestration SHGCB, E
Ceiling R-Value
Wood Frame Wall
Mass Wall R-ValueH
Floor R-Value
BasementC, G Wall R-Value
SlabD R-Value & Depth
Crawl SpaceC, G Wall R-Value
4 Except Marine
0.30
0.55
0.40
49
20 or 13 + 5H
8/13
19
10CI or 13
10CI, 4FT
10CI or 13
5
0.30I
0.55
0.40
49
20 or 13 + 5H
13/17
30
15CI or 19 or 13 + 5CI
10CI, 4FT
15CI or 19 or 13 + 5CI
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
CI = Continuous Insulation.
A. R-values are minimums. U-factors and SHGC are maximums, where insulation is installed in a cavity that is less than the label or design thickness of the insulation, the installed R-value of the insulation shall be not less than the R-value specified in the table.
B. The fenestration U-factor column excludes skylights, the SHGC column applies to all glazed fenestrations, exception: In climate zones 0 through 3, skylights shall be permitted to be excluded from glazed fenestration SHGC requirements provided that the SHGC for such skylights does not exceed 0.30.
C. "10CI or 13" means R-10 continuous insulation (CI) on the interior or exterior surface of the wall or R-13 cavity insulation on the interior side of the wall. "15CI or 19 or 13 & 5CI" means R-15 continuous insulation (CI) on the interior or exterior surface of the wall; or R-19 cavity insulation on the interior side of the wall; or R-13 cavity insulation on the interior of the wall in addition to R-5 continuous insulation on the interior or exterior surface of the wall.
D. R-5 insulation shall be provided under the full slab area of a heated slab in addition to the required slab edge insulation R-value for slabs. As indicated in the table. The slab-edge insulation for heated slabs shall not be required to extend below the slab.
E. There are no SHGC requirements in the marine zone.
F. Basement wall insulation is not required in warm humid locations as defined by figure R301.1 and table R301.1.
G. The first value is cavity insulation; The second value is continuous insulation. Therefore, as an example, "13 & 5" means R-13 cavity insulation plus R-5 continuous insulation.
H. Mass walls shall be in accordance with section R402.2.5. the second R-value applies where more than half of the insulation is on the interior of the mass wall.
I. A maximum U-factor of 0.32 shall apply in climate zones 3 through 8 to vertical fenestration products installed in buildings located either:
1. Above 4,000 feet in elevation, or
2. In windborne debris regions where protection of openings is required by section r301.2.1.2 of The International Residential Code.
(8) 
Modify IECC Section R402.2.1, Ceiling with attic spaces, with the following:
A. 
Add "or Section R402.1.3.1" after "R402.1.3" and before "requires R-49 insulation"; and
B. 
Add "or Section R402.1.3.1" after "R402.1.3" and before "requires R-60 insulation."
(9) 
Modify IECC Section R402.2.2, Ceilings without attics, with the following:
A. 
Add "or Section R402.1.3.1" after "R402.1.3" and before "requires insulation R-values greater than R-30"; and
B. 
Add "or R402.1.3.1" after "R402.1.3" and before "shall be limited to."
(10) 
Modify IECC Section R408, Additional efficiency package options:
A. 
Add new Section:
R408.3 Maryland alternative additional energy efficiency package options. The provisions of this section shall be applied as part of the presecriptive compliance path of R402.1.3.1. Additional energy efficiencies from Table R408.3 must be selected to meet or exceed a minimum percentage increase of 6% for Climate Zone 4 and 6% for Climate Zone 5.
B. 
Add the following table: R408.3 Additional Energy Features:
Energy Feature
Percentage Increase for Climate Zone 4
Percentage Increase for Climate Zone 5
1
> 2.5% Reduction in Total UA5
1%
1%
2
> 5% Reduction in Total UA5
2%
3%
3
> 7.5% Reduction in Total UA5
2%
3%
4
0.22 U-Factor Windows5
3%
4%
5
High Performance Cooling System (Greater Than or Equal to 18 SEER and 14 EER Air Conditioner)2
3%
2%
6
High Performance Cooling System (Greater Than or Equal to 16 SEER and 12 EER Air Conditioner)2
3%
3%
7
High Performance Gas Furnace (Greater Than or Equal to 96 AFUE Natural Gas Furnace)2
5%
7%
8
High Performance Gas Furnace (Greater Than or Equal to 92 AFUE Natural Gas Furnace)2
4%
5%
9
High Performance Heat Pump System (Greater Than or Equal to 10 HSPF/18 SEER Air Source Heat Pump)2
6%
6%
10
High Performance Heat Pump System (Greater Than or Equal to 9 HSPF/16 SEER Air Source Heat Pump)2
5%
5%
11
Ground Source Heat Pump (Greater Than or Equal to 3.5 COP Ground Source Heat Pump)2
6%
8%
12
Fossil Fuel Service Water Heating System (Greater Than or Equal to 82 EF Fossil Fuel Service Water-Heating System)
3%
2%
13
High Performance Heat Pump Water Heating System Option (Greater Than or Equal to 2.9 UEF Electric Service Water-Heating System)
8%
6%
14
High Performance Heat Pump Water Heating System (Greater Than or Equal to 3.2 UEF Electric Service Water-Heating System)
8%
6%
15
Solar Hot Water Heating System (Greater Than or Equal to 0.4 Solar Fraction Solar Water-Heating System)
6%
6%
16
More Efficient HVAC Distribution System (100 Percent of Ductless Thermal Distribution System or Hydronic Thermal Distribution System Located Completely Inside the Building Thermal Envelope)
10%
12%
17
100% of Ducts in Conditioned Space (100 Percent of Duct Thermal Distribution System Located in Conditioned Space as Defined by Section R403.3.2)
12%
15%
18
Reduced Total Duct Leakage (When Ducts are Located Outside Conditioned Space, the Total Leakage of the Ducts, Measured in Accordance with R403.3.5, Shall Be in Accordance with One of the Following:
A. Where Air Handler is Installed at the Time of Testing, 2.0 Cubic Feet Per Minute Per 100 Square Feet of Conditioned Floor Area.
B. Where Air Handler is Not Installed at the Time of Testing, 1.75 Cubic Feet Per Minute Per 100 Square Feet of Conditioned Floor Area)
1%
1%
19
2 ACH50 Air Leakage Rate with ERV or HRV Installed (Less Than or Equal to 2.0 ACH50, with Either an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) or Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) Installed)3
10%
13%
20
2 ACH50 Air Leakage Rate with Balanced Ventilation (Less Than or Equal to 2.0 ACH50, with Balanced Ventilation as Defined in Section 202 of the 2021 International Mechanical Code)4
4%
5%
21
1.5 ACH50 Air Leakage Rate with ERV or HRV Installed (Less Than or Equal to 1.5 ACH50, with Either an ERV or HRV Installed)4
12%
15%
22
1 ACH50 Air Leakage Rate with ERV or HRV Installed (Less Than Equal to 1.0 ACH50, with Either an ERV or HRV Installed)4
14%
17%
23
Energy Efficient Appliances (Minimum 3 Appliances Not to Exceed 1 Form Each Type with follow efficiencies. Refrigerator - energy star program requirements, product specification for Consumer Refrigeration Products, Version 5.1 (08/05/2021), Dishwasher - Energy Star Program Requirements for Residential Dishwashers, Version 6.0 (01/29/2016), Clothes Dryer - Energy Star Program Requirements, Product Specification for Clothes Dryers, Version 1.1 (05/05/2017) and Clothes Washer - Energy Star Program Requirements, Product Specification for Clothes Washers, Version 8.1 (02/05/2018)
7%
5%
24
Renewable Energy Measure.4
11%
9%
1.
Energy efficiency percentage increases as established by PNNL.
2.
For multiple cooling systems, all systems shall meet or exceed the minimum efficiency requirements in this section and shall be sized to serve 100 percent of the cooling design load. For multiple heating systems, all systems shall meet or exceed the minimum efficiency requirements in this section and shall be sized to serve 100 percent of the heating design load. Increases to minimum efficiency requirements are limited to one selection.
3.
Minimum HRV and ERV requirements, measured at the lowest tested net supply airflow, shall be greater than or equal to 75 percent sensible recovery efficiency (SRE), less than or equal to 1.1 cubic feet per minute per watt (0.03 m3/min/watt) and shall not use recirculation as a defrost strategy. In addition, the ERV shall be greater than or equal to 50 percent latent recovery/moisture transfer (LRMT).
4.
Renewable energy resources shall be permanently installed that have the capacity to produce a minimum of 1.0 watt of on-site renewable energy per square foot of conditioned floor area. The installed capacity shall be in addition to any onsite renewable energy required by section R404.4. to qualify for this option, one of the following forms of documentation shall be provided to the Code Official:
A.
Substantiation that the RECS associated with the on-site renewable energy are owned by, or retired on behalf of, the homeowner.
B.
A contract that conveys to the homeowner the RECS associated with the on-site renewable energy or conveys to the homeowner an equivalent quantity of RECS associated with other renewable energy.
C.
Reduction in total UA from lines 1, 2 or 3 and higher performance windows from line 4 are limited to a single selection.
(1) 
IPC Section 603.1, Size of water service pipe, should read as follows: "The water service pipe shall be sized to supply water to the structure in the quantities and at the pressure required in this code. The minimum diameter of water service pipe shall be in accordance with the Charles County Water & Sewer Ordinance."
(2) 
IPC Section 603.2, Separation of water service and building sewer: This code section governs from the structure to the meter crock and cleanout (private). Where water service piping is located in the same trench with the building sewer, such sewer shall be constructed of materials listed in Table 702.2, where the building sewer piping is not constructed of materials listed in Table 702.2, the water service pipe and the building sewer shall be horizontally separated by not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) of undisturbed or compacted earth. The required separation distance shall not apply where a water service pipe crosses a sewer pipe, provided that the water service is sleeved to a point not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the sewer pipe centerline on both sides of such crossing. The sleeve shall be of pipe materials listed in Table 605.3, 702.2 or 702.3. The required separation distance shall not apply where the bottom of the water service pipe, located within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the sewer, is not less than 12 inches (305 mm) above the highest point of the top of the building sewer. Please note that public water and sewer mains are governed by the Water & Sewer Ordinance.
(3) 
IPC Section 701.2, Sewer required, remove the statement "or an approved private sewage disposal system in accordance with the International Private Sewage Disposal Code" without replacement.
(4) 
IPC provisions contained in the following appendices are hereby adopted into the Charles County Building Code:
Appendix B - Rates of Rainfall for Various Cities
Appendix C - Structural Safety
Appendix D - Degree Day and Design Temperatures
Appendix E - Sizing of Water Piping System.
(1) 
International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) Section 404.12, Minimum burial depth, add Section 404.12.2 with the following statement: "In locations determined by the field inspector to be susceptible to physical damage, the burial depth shall be increased to 18 inches minimum below finished grade."
(2) 
The following appendices of the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code are hereby adopted into the Charles County Building Code:
A.
Sizing and Capacities of Gas Piping (IFGS)
B.
Sizing of Venting Systems Serving Appliances Equipped with Draft Hoods, Category 1 Appliances and Appliances Listed for Use with Type B Vents (IFGS)
C.
Exit Terminals of Mechanical Draft-Vent Venting Systems (IFGS)
(1) 
In the IEBC, remove all references to "Accessibility Requirements - Chapter 11 of the International Building Code (IBC)," and replace with "the Maryland Accessibility Code set forth in COMAR 05.02.02."
(2) 
The following appendices of the 2021 International Existing Building Code are hereby adopted into the Charles County Building Code:
Appendix B - Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings and Facilities
The periodic supplements and amendments adopted by the International Codes Council, Inc., and amendments to the 2021 editions of the previously mentioned Icodes shall become a part of the Charles County Building Code as and when the same shall be adopted by the International Codes Council, Inc.
The following shall be made part of this chapter:
(1) 
Onsite drainage. The following provisions apply to the conveyance and disposal of stormwater runoff, sump pump discharge, not otherwise classed as, or qualified to be part of the Charles County Stormwater Management, Road, Grading and Sediment Control Ordinances:
A. 
Drainage. Drainage conveyance systems shall be provided to safely discharge surface and groundwater in such a manner to prevent erosion, overflow, ponding or nuisance of any kind to the nearest practical street, storm drain, adjacent properties, or other adequate conveyance system in accordance with applicable design criteria, standards and procedures as contained herein and as required by approved standards and regulations of the County ordinance listed above.
B. 
Ponding. The ponding of water shall not be permitted particularly above cut or fill slopes or on drainage terraces, nor shall water be impounded on adjacent property. Adequate drainage/grading shall be provided to prevent such ponding.
C. 
Improvements. All drainage improvements such as interceptors, diversion berms, swales, and ditches shall be designed and constructed in accordance with standards contained elsewhere herein. When required, ditches/swales shall be piped or paved or otherwise improved. Drainage discharging into natural watercourses may require that such natural watercourses be protected from erosion by an adequate amount of riprap or by other acceptable measures as dictated by the County.
D. 
Groundwater. Springs and surfaces seeps and other groundwaters shall be capped with porous gravel and/or sand with interlaced tile drains or perforated pipes connecting into a piped outfall to a public storm drainage system or natural watercourse.
(2) 
Certification for new residential construction.
A. 
Written certification, as to compliance to the approval site plan dealing with the foundation wall location and first floor elevation, shall be submitted to Charles County Planning and Growth Management by a registered land surveyor and/or professional engineer according to Subsection (2)B listed below.
B. 
Written certifications, as to compliance to County ordinances dealing with on-site grading/drainage shall be submitted to the Charles County Planning and Growth Management by the contractor/permit applicant.
i. 
Foundation wall location and first floor elevation certification for all new residential dwelling construction on lots of one acre or less. For lots greater than one acre, foundation wall location will only be required. This must be submitted prior to completion of framing/wall construction. Failure to comply will result in inspection disapproval and/or issuance of a stop-work order until such time as certification is received.
ii. 
On-site grading/drainage certification for all new residential dwelling construction on lots of one acre or less. This must be submitted prior to the issuance of a use and occupancy. Failure to comply will constitute grounds for issuance of a stop-work order which will not be released until such time as certification is received. On residential dwelling construction, the Charles County Building Code Official may issue a certificate of use and occupancy upon the homeowner's acceptance of responsibility for lot stabilization and for obtaining on-site drainage certification as soon as weather conditions allow.
(3) 
If a building permit application has not been issued and because of inactivity an extension request needs to be submitted to the Building Code Official after the adoption date of these new codes, the Building Code Official is authorized to request a conformity review with all applicable new codes as a condition to the extension request. In addition, if an approval is granted on an extension request, when applicable, adjusted plan review, inspection and other miscellaneous fees may need to be collected.
(4) 
Before a use and occupancy can be issued for a new construction for single-family dwellings and townhomes, the owner/builder is required to submit an accurate as-built survey for the lot to include swales, stormwater management features, the elevation of all drainage breakpoints, and drainage patterns within the lot. The design engineer must review the as-built data and certify that: 1) the construction of the project has been completed in substantial conformance with the plans and specifications; however, the deviations will not prevent the project from functioning with compliance with the requirements. A description of all substantial deviations must be provided, with data demonstrating satisfaction of the outstanding permit conditions.