How To Ensure Your Metal Building Meets Local Building Codes

Are you dreaming about adding a shiny new metal building on your property? Before you jump to ordering and start site preparations, there is one critical step you can NOT afford to skip, i.e., to make sure your new building meets local codes and regulations.

Here, in this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps to ensure your metal prefab building project complies with local building codes, saving you time, money, and stress. You will gain clarity to build your steel structure confidently and legally. Let's break it down!

A. What Are Building Codes and Why Do They Exist?

Imagine you want to build a tree house. You will want it to be strong enough to hold you and your friends safe so no one falls off. Now, you will need to follow certain construction methods to ensure it is safe. These 'construction methods' are the building codes.

Definition: Building codes are a set of rules with minimum requirements for a specific locality to allow construction work that is safe for you and your neighborhood.

It guides you on how to design, build, and maintain a building so it lasts long and stands firm even during severe weather conditions. Without these rules, a building may fall apart, catch fire easily, or have unhealthy conditions inside.

Why Do Building Codes Matter?

The local building codes help in the following ways –

• It helps to keep building strong during huge storms or strong winds.
• Since fire can spread fast, building codes require you to use fire-resistant materials and emergency exits to escape when necessary.
• These codes ensure the structure has proper plumbing and vents so water is not dirty, and toxic fumes can escape outside.
• Some building codes require your metal workspace to be energy-efficient so you save on energy bills and create less carbon footprint.

Who Makes And Enforces These Building Codes?

The building codes may vary by city, town, and county, each having its own set of rules. There are 'model codes', i.e., big rulebooks written by experts and adjusted for specific needs. For example, a city with frequent earthquakes will have stronger rules for building than a city with no prominent seismic activity.

Similarly, a town that gets heavy snow may have specific codes like roofing style, minimum roof pitch, etc. People who enforce these codes are usually the local government officials who inspect, approve, and ensure construction follows all the rules before you start using a metal workshop or garage.

Should You Care About Building Codes?

The short answer is – Yes. Not following these rules may result in big problems like halting construction work, paying fines/penalties, or causing safety hazards.

B. Overview Of Common Metal Building Codes In The States

NOTE: 'Model Codes' Are the Foundations of US Building Rules.

You can think of model codes as a recipe for a safe steel building. Local governing bodies use these codes with some adjustments as per their climate and terrain. The most well-known codes come from the International Code Council [source: ICC.org], which is a group that sets rules for buildings all over the world.

Here Are Some Important Codes For Steel Buildings

1. International Building Code (IBC)

The IBC is like a rulebook for big buildings, such as commercial, industrial, and other large structures. It covers –

• How strong must the structure be to avoid collapse?
• Fire safety rules allow people to escape safely in emergency situations.
• Ease of access for people of all abilities so they can move around.

Tip: You can find the IBC for steel buildings on the International Code Council (IBC website).

2. International Residential Code (IRC)

This code is mostly for home and residential units and applies to attached garages and small accessory buildings near the home, such as a metal outdoor shed or a steel carport. It covers –

• Building safety for homes (so families can live safely).
• Plumbing and water system rules (so pipes don't leak).
• Mechanical and electrical rules (so heating, cooling, and wiring work properly).

Tip: You can find IRC on the International Code Council IRC website.

3. Other Important Building Codes You Must Know

Apart from IBC and IRC, there are some other codes that may apply to your building for safety and efficiency, and to ensure it is functional.

• International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) – This is to ensure building uses less electricity by requiring good insulation, efficient lighting, and energy-saving designs.
• International Fire Code (IFC) – It focuses on fire prevention, requiring things such as proper exits, fire alarms, and flame-resistant materials.
• National Electrical Code (NEC) – It is published by NFPA, but local government often adopts it. It controls electrical safety, making sure wiring, outlets, and power setups are correctly installed.

NOTE: Each city/ county has its own set of rules added/modified to these codes based on local weather patterns, soil conditions, and natural calamities. For example, California may have strict safety rules for earthquakes, while Florida may have rules for hurricane-proof structures.

Tip: Don't guess! Every city, county, and town has different versions of these rules, which you can learn from your local government website or by visiting their office to get the exact codes for your area.

C. How To Make Sure Your Steel Building Meets Local Building Codes – Step-By-Step

1. Identify Your Local Building Authority

Find out who makes the rules in your area before you start a steel building project. You can look for information on –

• City/ Town Hall (main government office for your town)
• County Building Department (for those who live outside city limits)
• Planning and Zoning Office (to ensure your building is in the right place)

Here's What You Can Ask For

When you visit this office, don't just ask if you can build a particular structure, but get complete details, such as –

• Which specific codes do I need to follow? You may get answers like we use the 2021 IBC with these local amendments.
• What are the zoning rules for my property? This will tell you how far your new structure must be from neighbors, height restrictions, and rules for workshops/ garages.
• Do I need a permit? In most cases, you will need approval of a blueprint before starting construction.
• What paperwork do I need to submit for permit approval? Some places may require engineer-approved plans for safety reasons.
• Will there be inspections? Your local office will tell you about the steps you must follow during construction, and whether there will be a final assessment of your steel structure before you start using it.

2. Understand Key Code Requirements For Metal Buildings

Now that you know which codes apply, you need to follow specific metal prefab building rules to ensure structural safety and stability. Some of these rules are –

• Foundation Rules – Your metal garage/ barn is on a sturdy base (concrete slab/ deep pier). For colder areas, it must be below the frost line, while for windy areas, it must be firmly in place.
• Structural Strength – The structure must stand up to nature, especially during strong winds, heavy snow, and earthquakes.
• Anchoring And Bracing – This is to ensure the steel frame firmly sits on the base and holds the basic skeleton of a metal prefab building in place.
• Exterior Materials And Fire Safety – Some places may require fire-resistant materials, such as 100% galvanized steel or a fireproof barrier.
• Insulation And Energy-Efficiency – This will keep the temperature steady inside the structure.
• Access And Exits – If your metal structure is used by people, it must have safe doors and emergency exits.
• Occupancy Classification – Building rules vary based on use (like a shed follows different regulations than a garage or workshop).

3. Engage Qualified Professionals

Installing a metal barn or a commercial workshop is not a DIY gig. Hence, you will need expert help to ensure it meets all the rules. You can ask for help from –

• Pre-Engineered Building Manufacturers (for engineer-certified and approved blueprints)
• Structural Engineers (for special safety features, like the ability to withstand high-speed wind, snow load, and seismic activity)
• Experienced Contractors (they are familiar with local building codes)

Tip: You can choose a metal building dealer who offers shipping and installation services included in their final quote for a hassle-free experience.

4. Get Design Approved And Construction Permits

A permit is an official permission to start construction. You will need to submit the following to get a permit –

• Site plan (building on your property)
• Foundation plan (how the base will be built)
• Structural drawing (showing walls, roof, and safety features)
• Fee (varies with location, size, and type of building)

NOTE: Be patient! The review process and approval can take 4 to 8 weeks in general. If something is not right, they may ask you to make changes before giving you the permit.

5. Schedule And Pass Building Inspections

Once you start the construction, the local inspector will check your building step by step. They will check for the following –

• Foundation inspection
• Framing inspection
• Insulation inspection
• Electrical and plumbing inspection
• Final inspection

Don't skip on inspection, as it ensures your newly installed metal 2 car garage is safe and legal. If you ignore these, you may have to fix costly mistakes later on. By working with professionals and following each step, you can successfully install a metal building that lasts for years!

Ready To Build? Get The Permits And Approvals Your Need First

Meeting building codes is not just about paperwork, it ensures your structure is safe, legal, and built to last. So, by taking time to research local regulations, secure the right permits, and work with certified professionals, you can easily build a metal structure that meets your needs for years to come.

You can work with experts and certified metal garage & building providers for a smooth buying and installation process. So, don't rely on the guesswork, get the facts straight from your local building authority, and get your dream building a solid, code-compliant foundation that stands strong for decades to come.