Understanding Metal Building Codes and Permits: What You Need to Know
If you’re thinking of a new building project, once you’ve decided what kind of structure you want to build, the next question might be, “What about building codes and permits?” Does a metal building require permits and does it have to follow certain codes to be legal? You bet it does!
While building codes and permits may seem like more hoops to jump through before you can actually have the building you’re dreaming of, there are really good reasons for these requirements.
Let’s unpack the topic of metal building codes and permits.
How Did Building Codes Get Started?
Prior to 1973, city and county building codes were not consistent throughout Oregon. But the signing of Senate Bill 73 created a statewide building code system.
The main purpose of this bill was to make sure that all cities and counties in Oregon were on the same page with a uniform building code. That way developers, contractors, business owners, and homeowners could have the same understanding of the expectations of a standardized code. This would benefit both the construction industry and consumers when it came time to construct a building.
Why Do We Need Building Codes?
Standardized building codes create a basic level of requirements for how residential and commercial buildings should be constructed.
The main focus of building codes is based on safety. Structural systems, plumbing, heating, ventilation, and electrical are just a few of the components that must meet important criteria in order to be considered safe. Regulating safety measures for fire and weather considerations are other important elements to building a safe structure.
By having set rules about what is acceptable, the construction industry has been able to standardize safe, durable, and quality buildings across the board. We adhere to these codes when it comes to the components and metal buildings that we manufacture so you can begin construction on your pre-engineered building without double checking that any of the parts involved are up to code.
Who Decides What the Code Requirements Should Be?
Codes are not just one person’s idea of good building practices. Codes are generally developed by organizations like “The National Institute of Standards and Technologies”, which is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, and the “American National Standards Institute” (ANSI), among other International Code Organizations.Â
Codes are constantly being reviewed and updated according to new information that evolves with the building industry. Between all of the different trades involved in producing all types of buildings, this is one of those instances where it takes a village. New information is coming out all the time and people are making new discoveries while on the job constructing these types of buildings. It’s important for everyone involved that this information is communicated clearly and effectively so any building codes can be updated as needed.Â
In Oregon, it’s the “Oregon Structural Specialty Code” (OSSC) that works with building officials, technical committees, advisory boards, and the public to adopt, amend, and interpret the provisions of the OSSC.Â
Another thing to keep in mind is that building codes can vary from state to state. For example, a location prone to having earthquakes could have different codes than one that is more concerned with things like hurricanes or flooding. That’s why it takes a lot of research, review, and documentation to develop standard building codes that are going to keep our communities safe.
So even if you think you know building codes in general, it’s a good idea to check with your local agencies for codes and permits for your specific area. This is especially important for anyone looking to build in one state for commercial purposes, while their primary residence is in another.
Why Do We Need Permits?
It may feel like building codes and permits get in the way or prolong the construction of a metal building. But just imagine what it might be like if people could just build whatever they wanted in any location, without regard to anyone else’s needs or preferences. Or what if they built something in an unsafe area that could cause harm to the environment or infringe on the rights of their neighbors?
When you decide to have any structure built, you need to consider the local requirements when you apply for your permit. You will need to provide specific information like the legal description of the property where you want to build, the size and use of the structure, and where the structure will be built on the property itself.
You will need to submit your structural plans that have been certified and stamped by an engineer licensed in your state. Once your permit is approved, then construction can begin.
Sometimes it can be a long process, so be prepared to be patient and have all of your information ready when needed. The building department needs to check a lot of boxes to make sure this is the right building being constructed in the right place. A few of the topics they’ll be checking on are codes, zoning, size, aesthetics, easements, and watersheds. It’s very important to check everything before you start.
When you think about it, it really is good that codes and permits are in place for building our communities.
What About Metal Buildings?
Metal buildings are subject to codes and permits, just like any other structure. And you can be assured when you purchase a metal building from us, we know the requirements, and can help you navigate the rules and regulations when starting your project.
For example, if there is a certain code or permit that we need to keep in mind when designing a pre-engineered building for you, we can collaborate on that during the planning process so things go according to plan once construction starts.
We encourage our customers to show us drawings or specs of their project during that planning phase so we can provide an estimate for your building too. We can then give advice as to how small changes could make your project more efficient or help lower the cost.
Remember that we can provide the drawings, but it’s the customer’s responsibility to take them to the corresponding county for approval.
Metal building codes and permits can be confusing when you already have a lot to consider when making plans to build a new structure. Don’t let it stress you out though! We can help you understand the terms and requirements expected for pre-engineered metal building projects.
Although it’s not always fun to follow the rules, when you understand the purpose of codes and permits, we think you’ll agree that it’s everybody’s responsibility to create strong and beautiful communities with safety in mind.
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