HF3129

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to mandate certain updates to the State Building Code to address various construction requirements, specifically focusing on rules about unvented attics and enclosed rafter assemblies.

Main Provisions

• Unvented Attic and Rafter Assemblies: It requires the commissioner of labor and industry to adopt rules that consider unvented attic and unvented enclosed rafter assemblies to be properly insulated and sealed when using air impermeable insulation with specific properties. This includes R30 minimum insulation and a U-Factor of 0.038, as long as the building’s heating, cooling, and ventilation equipment, including ductwork, is situated inside the unvented attic.

• Various Specific Requirements: The bill also provides guidelines and considerations for other specific construction scenarios, such as:

  • Parking spaces for commuter vans in parking facilities.
  • Smoke detection devices in various residential buildings.
  • Exit and staircase requirements in day care centers and multiple dwelling buildings.
  • Use of double cylinder deadbolts in certain residential properties.
  • Permitting the use of ungraded lumber in specific geographic areas.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Incorporation of Air Impermeable Insulation Standards: Expands on the insulation requirements by specifying newer standards for unvented attic spaces and rafter assemblies in line with the Minnesota Residential Energy Code.
• Adoption of New Building Safety Features: Requires adoption of rules for adult-size changing facilities and window cleaning safety measures, seeking compliance with nationally recognized standards for newer building designs and renovations.

Relevant Terms

unvented attics, enclosed rafter assemblies, insulation, U-Factor, R-value, Minnesota Residential Energy Code, building safety, commuter transportation, smoke detection, fire safety, child care facilities, ungraded lumber, double cylinder deadbolt locks.