Residential Permits

Click each link for Building Safety residential guidelines and information or scroll down the page.

Manufactured Homes Guidelines

Before placing a manufactured home, contact the Department of Building Safety at 806-378-3041 to determine the zoning of the lot.

Manufactured home placement within Amarillo's city limits is based on the year of manufacture and home condition. Three categories exist, all requiring a HUD inspection number.

Manufactured Home Categories

The City classifies manufactured homes into three categories based on year model and condition. All categories require a HUD inspection number.

Type "A" — Built between June 15, 1976, and the current year 8 feet or more in width, 40 feet or more in length Allowed in MH, LC, HC, I-1, I-2 zones without an S-permit Allowed in A, R-1, MF-1 (on a minimum 50-foot-wide lot) with an SUP-permit.

Type "B" — Must be no more than six years old No less than 15 feet wide, with a roof pitch of 3:12 or greater Solid roof deck with shingles or a metal roof Living area no less than 900 square feet Allowed in MH, LC, HC, I-1, I-2 zones without an S-permit Allowed in A, R-1, R-2, R-3, MD, MF-1 (on a minimum 50-foot-wide lot) with an SUP-permit.

Type "C" — Only new homes Must be no less than 28 feet wide, with a roof pitch of 3:12 or greater Solid (roof) deck with shingles or a metal roof Living area of no less than 900 square feet Allowed in all zoning areas except CBD.

Specific Use Permit (SUP-Permit)

If the proposed home is not allowed in the current zone, apply for an SUP-Permit through the Planning Department.
Provide a site plan, real estate appraisal document, and pictures of the manufactured home.
Process may take 4 to 6 weeks or more.

Manufactured Home Permitting Process

Manufactured Home Permitting is a two-part process.

Preliminary Inspection Process

Submit a completed application with the date of manufacture and HUD number.
For homes within city limits, complete utility disconnects and required permits before paperwork acceptance.
If an S-Permit is needed due to zoning, complete and approve this process before applying for a manufactured home permit.
If the home is occupied or over two years old:
- Mandatory preliminary inspection to assess the home's condition.
- Inspection covers exterior, windows, water heater, heating unit, drywall, electrical devices, floor deck, potential trip hazards, and plumbing fixtures.
- Missing or damaged features result in inspection failure.
If the preliminary inspection is disapproved:
- Receive a report with required repairs.
- The home cannot be moved until repairs are completed.
- Necessary permits for repairs must be present, and required inspections passed.
- After repairs, request a re-inspection.
If required repairs are not completed after the first re-inspection, a $65.00 re-inspection fee applies for each subsequent re-inspection.
If the home is over 5 miles outside city limits:
- Coordinate with the Department of Building Safety Plans Examiner.
- Set up a preliminary inspection time and location (commercial lot outside city limit line) at least 24 hours in advance.

Permitting Process

After passing the preliminary inspection, fees will be invoiced, and the permit issued upon payment.
Fees cover electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits.
Additional requirements based on property or lot conditions may apply.

Additional Manufactured Home Installation Requirements

Some installations have additional requirements based on the current state of the property or lot which include but are not limited to:

Stairs — Code-compliant stairway with guard rails at each exit.

Detectors — Smoke detectors inside each bedroom, carbon monoxide detectors if gas appliances are present.

Fixture Coverings — Install light fixture globes, air conditioning vent grills, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors before requesting a final inspection.

Property Address — Display the address on the exterior of the home facing the street in characters at least 4” tall and ½" wide.

Driveway/Parking — Install two off-street parking spaces inside property lines before the final inspection.

Sidewalks — A 4' wide sidewalk required on all property frontages, unless a waiver is granted.

Street/Alley — In all areas platted after April 1, 1958, the street must be paved. In all areas platted after October 20, 1970, the alley must be paved. In any new development, regardless of plat date, both street and alley must be paved

Skirting — Must be solid, weather-resistant material, installed before the final inspection.

Residency — For types B & C manufactured homes the wheels/axles, tongue, and lights used for towing must be removed. After the home has been placed on the property, the title of the manufactured home must be submitted to the state because it is permanently placed; it becomes part of the property and will be a permanent residence.

Submit title to:

Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
Manufactured Housing Division
George H.W. Bush State Office Building
1801 Congress Ave., Suite 11.400
Austin, TX 78701
800-500-7074

Final Inspection

Ensure all plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and flatwork inspections are complete before scheduling the final inspection for your building or manufactured home.
Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors (if necessary) before calling for the final inspection.
Install skirting, leaving one side off for under-home access before requesting the final inspection. The remaining side can be installed after inspection completion.
Install stairs with landings and guards at each exit of the home.
Click here to schedule the inspection online or call MGO at 866-957-3764 when ready. Ensure someone 18 years or older is present to let the inspector into the home.
The water meter will only be released after the final inspection passes and the Certificate of Occupancy from our office is issued. For more Certificate of Occupancy information, contact Building Safety at 806-378-3041.

Contact the Department of Building Safety at 806-378-3041 with any questions.

Master Plan Program Overview

The Master Plan Program is designed for contractors building the same model of homes multiple times. This program ensures a swift plan review turnaround time of 3-5 business days once the Master Plan is approved. To be eligible, your plan must meet the following conditions:

Single or two-family dwelling or townhouse
Located on an approved platted lot.
Same floor plan(s) or flip(s) with same elevations will be used multiple times.

Application Process

To enjoy the best customer service possible when applying for a master plan review please provide the following for initial review:

Submit New Construction Application for each Model in MGO
Number, Letter, or name of the master plan
Number, Letter, or name of the elevation for each floor plan
Ensure complete, code compliant plans as listed on the Residential New Submittal Checklist
Plans must NOT be stamped/labeled “Not for Construction”, “Preliminary Plans Only”, or any other variation; all plans MUST be for construction documents.
Include any necessary engineer/architectural stamps (wet seal not required).
Separate submittals for flips or mirrors.
Wind bracing calculations.
No options allowed, except for fireplace options.
- Exception: Fireplace options will be submitted showing all installations details including type, location, and manufacture’s details (if applicable); this option can be removed prior to permitting (see disclaimer)

Submission Format

Each plan page must be a separate PDF, labeled with the contents (i.e., A1.0 Cover Sheet or A2.1 Floor Plan)
Documents listed as more than one page (i.e., Wind bracing calculations, Energy Code Compliance, RESchecks) may remain as a multi-page document.
List each of these files in a file folder with the same name/number of the master plan

Note: Please be sure ALL documents provided are in PDF format and are NOT combined into one single PDF. We are unable to open any electronic media that Is not in PDF format.

After Master Plan Approval

Once the initial master plan application has been reviewed and the plans have been approved a site-specific project application can be turned in. Each submittal will be required to include the following:

A completed building permit application in MGO
A site plan for the current lot including all dimensions and setbacks, required off-street parking, and elevations.
A web soil survey for the area (if plans do not include a sealed foundation and detail)

Projects will be issued within 3-5 business days of receipt after the initial review has been performed.

Disclaimer: All plans must be site specific; ANY changes or revisions will cause the project to halt, and a complete new set of plans must be submitted and reviewed before the project can continue. Permits cannot be issued until all plat or required floodplain information has been approved. Please allow up to 2-3 weeks for the initial master plan review to be completed. Plans will be subject to re-review following any code update or adoption. All work is subject to field inspection. All plan sets with fireplace options will be reviewed as if a fireplace is to be installed unless otherwise indicated on the site-specific application.

Contact a Residential Plan Reviewer before applying for a Master Plan by calling 806-378-3041.

Inspection Guidelines

Residential — Common Permit Inspection Violations

For all residential projects see below for information on codes that will help you follow City of Amarillo guidelines.

The following represents frequently asked questions and/or violations of the 2021 International Residential Code with City amendments.

Note: Review Ordinance 7101 for amendments.

The code book contains 655 pages, other code sections may apply, this list is a summary not intended to be all-inclusive, but as an aid to assist in the building process. Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing work must comply with the Amarillo City Code any omissions or failure to identify violations during plan review does not permit violations of the code.

Take note of the guidelines marked with an asterisk (*). Those are the most common violations. To ensure compliance and avoid violations, carefully note and address these commonly overlooked guidelines during inspections.

Site Address — IRC R319 *

On-Site Plans — IRC R106.3.1 *

Brick Veneer/Masonry Inspection — IRC R109.1.4 *

Handrail Regulations — IRC R311.7.8 *

Bandrails are mandatory for stairs with four or more risers, maintaining a height between 34”–38” measured vertically from the nosing. Handrails must terminate correctly, either returning to the wall, ending in a newel post, or a safety terminal. The handrail-to-wall clearance should be at least 1 ½” and must be continuous, with allowances for newel posts at turns. The handrail's cross-section should measure between 1¼” minimum and 2” maximum, or provide an equivalent grasping surface, featuring edges with a minimum 1/8” radius. Non-compliance may result from improper handrail height, continuity, or graspability.

Purlin Bracing — IRC R802.4.5 *

Chimney Cricket or Saddle — IRC R1003.20 *

The installation of a cricket or saddle on the ridge side of any chimney or penetration wider than 30 inches, measured perpendicular to the slope. The cricket or saddle covering must be made of sheet metal or the same material as the roof covering. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in the absence of proper water diversion and protection at the chimney, potentially leading to water damage.

Roof Vent Termination — IMC Section 802.4 *

Dryer Vent Screen — IMC Section 504.4 *

Sanitary Facilities for Construction Workers — IPC Section 311 *

Saftey Glazing — IRC R308.4*

Safety Glazing is required; in all doors, glazing within 24” of door, glazing enclosing / in building walls enclosing tub /showers, glass over 9 square feet of area w/ bottom edge within 18” of floor & top edge greater than 36” above floor and walking surface within 36”, glazing within 60 inches horizontally of the bottom tread of a stairway and the glass is less than 60” above the nose of the tread.

Concrete Foundations – R401.2 *

Drainage — R401.3 *

Wood Trusses — R502.11 *

Fire Blocking — R602.8 *

Footing Depth — R403.1.4

Foundation Anchorage — R403.1.6

Cantilever Maximum — R502.3.3

Engineered Wood — R502.8.2

Slab-On-Grade Reinforcement — R506.2.4

Stud Specifications — R602.3.1

Stud Walls — R602.6

Top Plates — R602.6.1

Window Installation — R613.1

Window — Fall Protection — R613.2

Window Mullions — R613.9.1

Mullions are vertical or horizontal elements that divide or separate sections within a window or screen, often supporting structural loads. They can be found between adjacent window units or along the length or height of a larger window. Mullions are designed to enhance the aesthetics, provide structural support, and sometimes accommodate additional functional features in windows or screens.

Mullions shall be tested in accordance with AAMA 450 or engineered.

Tub and Shower Backers — R702.4.2

Weather-Resistive Barrier — R703.1/R703.2

The weather-resistive barrier is a protective layer designed to prevent the infiltration of water into the building structure. It must be installed in a way that promotes drainage within the assembly. Specifically, the barrier should be applied horizontally, with a minimum 2" lap over the lower course, and joints should have a minimum 6" lap under all siding materials. This approach helps ensure effective water resistance in the building's exterior envelope.

Exterior Flashing — R703.8

Ceiling Joist and Rafter Connections — R802.2.1

Ceiling joist and Rafter Connections Ceiling joists and rafter shall be connected in accordance with table R802.5.1(9) and nailed to the top plate, where ceiling joists are not connected to the rafters at the top plate, minimum 2×4 joists shall be installed higher as continuous rafter ties, such rafter ties shall be installed in the lower one-third of the attic height or the ridge must be supported by a girder designed to support all loads. To resist uplift Collar ties or ridge straps (minimum 1×4) shall be connected in the upper third of the attic space not more than 4 feet on center.

Roof — Removal of Existing Asphalt Shingles — R907.3

Energy Efficiency Certificate Requirements — N1101.8

A permanent certificate must be affixed inside the electrical distribution panel of a building. The certificate should provide a comprehensive list of key energy efficiency features, including the predominant R-values of insulation in walls, ceilings, foundation, and ducts outside conditioned spaces. Additionally, it should detail U-factors for fenestration, noting Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), and outline the type and efficiency of heating, cooling, and service water heating equipment.

Appliance Access — M1305.1

Outdoor Mechanical Equipment Elevation — M1308.3

Outdoor Venting for Exhaust Systems — M1506.2

Window U-Factor/SHGC Label — IECC Section 303.1.3

Requirement for fenestration products to have a U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) label determined in accordance with NFRC 100 by an accredited organization. The presence of these labels is crucial for verifying compliance with the International Energy Conservation Code. Failure to maintain these labels during the rough frame inspection is considered non-compliance with the energy efficiency standards outlined in the IECC.

Masonry — R109.1.4

Stairways — R303.6

Garage — R309

Sleeping Room Emergency Escape/Rescue Openings — R310

Emergency escape and rescue openings are required in every sleeping room.

Openings shall have; minimum opening of 5.7 square feet (operational from inside without use of keys or tools, maximum sill height of 44” from finished floor, minimum 20” opening width, minimum

24” opening height. Basements over 400 square feet must comply with this section, less than 400 SF shall be designed as a storm shelter.

Landings — R311

Under Stair Protection — R311.2.2

Stairway Measurements — R311.5

Stairways: Minimum width 36”, Maximum riser height 7 ¾” (max. variance 3/8”), Minimum tread depth 10” (max variance 3/8”), Minimum nosing ¾” – maximum 1 ¼” on stairs with solid risers (open risers are permitted provided the opening does not permit the passage of a 4” diameter sphere). Minimum 6’8” headroom measured vertically from a sloped plane from floor surface to floor surface.

Stairway Winders — R311.5.3.2

Handrails — R311.5.6

Handrails are required on all stairs with four or more risers located between 34”–38” in height measured vertically from nosing. Ends shall be returned to wall or terminate in newel post or safety terminal. Clear space between wall and handrail shall not be less than 1 ½” and shall be continuous (may be interrupted by newel post at a turn). Handrail cross-section 1¼” minimum – 2” maximum or other equivalent grasping surface, edges with minimum 1/8” radius.

Guards — R312

Guards are protective barriers or railings installed along elevated surfaces like balconies, decks, stairs, or raised walkways. Guards required on any walking surface over 30” from adjacent floor or grade, minimum 36” in height. Open sides of stairs with rise of 30” or more shall have guard’s minimum of 34” in height measured vertically from nosing. Openings in required guards shall not permit passage of a 4” sphere.

Smoke Alarms — R313

Dryer Vent Length — M1502.6

Fixture Drain and Venting Distance — P906.1

Bathtub Temperature Limiting Device — P2713.3

Air Admittance Valve for Vent Termination — P3114.3

Laundry and Garage GFCI Protection — NEC210.8

Outlet Arch-Fault Protection — NEC210.12

Residential — Common Plumbing Inspection Violations

Explore commonly missed plumbing guidelines in residential construction that often result in violations, offering insights to enhance compliance during inspections.

Plumbing Inspection Requests — R109.3

It is the responsibility of the permit holder or their representative to inform the building official when plumbing work is prepared for inspection. The person requesting inspections is obligated to ensure access and means for inspecting the work. Adherence to these duties is crucial to facilitate efficient and accurate inspections in compliance with the plumbing code.

R109.3

Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the permit holder or their agent to notify the building official that such work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the person requesting any inspections required by this code to provide access to and means for inspection of such work.

Issue: No one on-site / no answer

Leak and Defect Detection — G2417.5 (406.5)

This guideline outlines the requirements for testing the piping system for leaks and defects. The system must endure the specified test pressure without exhibiting any signs of leakage or defects. If pressure gauges indicate a reduction in test pressures, it is assumed to indicate a leak unless an alternative cause can be readily identified. Strict adherence to these standards is essential to ensure the integrity and reliability of the piping system, as deviations may indicate potential issues that need prompt attention and resolution.

G2417.5 (406.5)

Detection of leaks and defects. The piping system shall withstand the test pressure specified without showing any evidence of leakage or other defects. Any reduction of test pressures as indicated by pressure gauges shall be deemed to indicate the presence of a leak unless such reduction can be readily attributed to some other cause.

Issue: Leak on gas test

Pipe Protection — Nail Plates — P2603.2.1

Guidelines emphasizing the need for protective shield plates to prevent physical damage to concealed pipes in residential construction.

P2603.2.1
Protection against physical damage. In concealed locations, where piping, other than cast-iron or galvanized steel, is installed through holes or notches in studs, joists, rafters, or similar members less than 1.5 inches (38mm) from the nearest edge of the member, the pipe shall be protected by shield plates. Protective shield plates shall be a minimum of 0.062-inch-thick (1.6 mm) steel, shall cover the area of the pipe where the member is notched or bored and shall extend a minimum of 2 inches (51 mm) above sole plates and below top plates.

Issue: Failure to install adequate nail plates

Underground Gas Line Depth — G2415.12 (404.12)

Avoid Pipes Freezing — P2603.5

Guideline addresses the protection of water, soil, or waste pipes from freezing. The guideline specifies measures such as insulation or heat provision to safeguard pipes installed outside buildings, in exterior walls, attics, crawl spaces, or areas prone to freezing temperatures.

P2603.5 Freezing. In localities having a winter design temperature of 32°F (0°C) or lower as shown in Table R301.2(1) of this code, a water, soil or waste pipe shall not be installed outside of a building, in exterior walls, in attics or crawl spaces, or in any other place subjected to freezing temperature unless adequate provision is made to protect it from freezing by insulation or heat or both. Water service pipe shall be installed not less than 12 inches (305 mm) deep and not less than 6 inches (152mm) below the frost line.

Issue: Neglecting measures to protect pipes

Proper Combustion Air Supply — G24071

Addresses the correct provision of air for combustion, ventilation, and dilution of flue gases for appliances within buildings.

G2407.1 (304.1)

General. Air for combustion, ventilation, and dilution of flue gases for appliances installed in buildings shall be provided by application of one of the methods prescribed in Sections G2407.5 through G2407.9. Where the requirements of Section G2407.5 are not met, outdoor air shall be introduced in accordance with one of the methods prescribed in Sections G2407.6 through G2407.9. Direct-vent appliances, gas appliances of other than natural draft design and vented gas appliances other than Category I shall be provided with combustion, ventilation, and dilution air in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s instructions.

Issue: Inadequate supply of combustion air for appliances

Gas Test Gauge — G2417.4 (406.4)

Incorrect gauge usage in gas pressure tests.

G2417.4 (406.4) Test pressure measurement. Test pressure shall be measured with a manometer or with a pressure-measuring device designed and calibrated to read, record, or indicate a pressure loss caused by leakage during the pressure test period. The source of pressure shall be isolated before the pressure tests are made. Mechanical gauges used to measure test pressures shall have a range such that the highest end of the scale is not greater than five times the test pressure.

Issue: Using wrong gauge for gas pressure tests resulting in inaccurate readings.

Underground Water Line Depth — P2603.6

Protective depth for water service pipes mandated at a minimum depth.

P2603.6 Freezing.

In localities having a winter design temperature of 32°F (0°C) or lower as referenced in Table R301.2(1) of this code, a water, soil or waste pipe shall not be installed outside of a building, in exterior walls, in attics or crawl spaces, or in any other place subjected to freezing temperature unless adequate provision is made to protect it from freezing by insulation or heat or both. Water service pipe shall be installed not less than 12 inches (305 mm) deep and not less than 6 inches (152mm) below the frost line.

Issue: Vulnerability of pipes to freezing

Water Shutoff Valve — P2903.9.1

Mandated installation of an accessible main shutoff valve near the entrance of each dwelling unit.

P2903.9.1 Service valve.

Each dwelling unit shall be provided with an accessible main shutoff valve near the entrance of the water service. The valve shall be of a full-open type having nominal restriction to flow, with provision for drainage such as a bleed orifice or installation of a separate drain valve. Additionally, the water service shall be valved at the curb or property line in accordance with local requirements.

Issue: Challenges in promptly controlling water flow during emergencies or maintenance

Residential — Common Mechanical Inspection Violations

Explore commonly missed mechanical guidelines in residential construction that often result in violations, offering insights to enhance compliance during inspections.

Mechanical Inspection Requests — R109.3

It is the responsibility of the permit holder or their representative to inform the building official when mechanical work is prepared for inspection. The person requesting inspections is obligated to ensure access and means for inspecting the work. Adherence to these duties is crucial to facilitate efficient and accurate inspections in compliance with the plumbing code.

R109.3

Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the permit holder or their agent to notify the building official that such work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the person requesting any inspections required by this code to provide access to and means for inspection of such work.

Issue: No one on-site / no answer

Combustion Air Requirements — G2407.1 (304.1)

Proper air for combustion in buildings must comply with prescribed methods. Outdoor air should be introduced if requirements are not met.

G2407.1 (304.1) General. Air for combustion, ventilation, and dilution of flue gases for appliances installed in buildings shall be provided by application of one of the methods prescribed in Sections G2407.5 through G2407.9. Where the requirements of Section G2407.5 are not met, outdoor air shall be introduced in accordance with one of the methods prescribed in Sections G2407.6 through G2407.9. Direct-vent appliances, gas appliances of other than natural draft design and vented gas appliances other than Category I shall be provided with combustion, ventilation, and dilution air in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s instructions.

Issue: Inadequate combustion air provisions impact appliance performance and safety

High Water Safety Switch — M1411.3.1.1

Water-level monitoring devices are required for down-flow units and coils without secondary drains.

M1411.3.1.1 Water level monitoring devices.

On down-flow units and all other coils that have no secondary drain and no means to install an auxiliary drain pan, a water-level monitoring device shall be installed inside the primary drain pan. This device shall shut off the equipment served if the primary drain becomes restricted. Externally installed devices and devices installed in the drain line shall not be permitted.

Issue: Absence of water-level monitoring devices poses risks of water damage

Supply Air Economizers — IECC 403.5

Air economizers are mandatory for cooling systems over specified capacities.

IEEC 403.5 Economizers. Supply air economizers shall be provided on each cooling system as shown in Table 503.3.1(1).

Economizers shall be capable of providing 100-percent outdoor air, even if additional mechanical cooling is required to meet the cooling load of the building. Systems shall provide a means to relieve excess outdoor air during economizer operation to prevent over pressurizing the building. The relief air outlet shall be located to avoid recirculation into the building. Where a single room or space is supplied by multiple air systems, the aggregate capacity of those systems shall be used in applying this requirement.

TABLE 403.5(1) ECONOMIZER REQUIREMENTS

CLIMATE ZONES	ECONOMIZER REQUIREMENT
1A, 1B, 2A, 3A, 4A, 7, 8	No requirement
2B, 3B, 3C, 4B, 4C, 5B, 5C, 6B	Economizers on all cooling systems ≥ 54,000 Btu/h
5A, 6A	Economizers on all cooling systems ≥ 135,000 Btu/h

For SI: 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.293 W.

Issue: Not installing economizers per capacity requirements can lead to energy inefficiency

Condensate Drainage Line — M1411.3.1

Secondary drains or auxiliary drain pans are required for coils without secondary drains.

M1411.3.1 Auxiliary and secondary drain systems.

In addition to the requirements of Section M1411.3, a secondary drain or auxiliary drain pan shall be required for each cooling or evaporator coil where damage to any building components will occur because of overflow from the equipment drain pan or stoppage in the condensate drain piping. Such piping shall maintain a minimum horizontal slope in the direction of discharge of not less than 1/8 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1-percent slope). Drain piping shall be a minimum of 3/4-inch (19 mm) nominal pipe size.

Issue: Incorrect drainage may lead to overflow and damage

Appliances in Attics — M1305.1.2

Attics with appliances must have clear passageways for access, meeting specified dimensions.

M1305.1.2 Appliances in attics.

Attics containing appliances requiring access shall be provided with an opening and a clear and unobstructed passageway large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance, but not less than 30 inches (762 mm) high and 22 inches (559 mm) wide and not more than 20 feet (6096 mm) long when measured along the centerline of the passageway from the opening to the appliance. The passageway shall have continuous solid flooring in accordance with Chapter 5 not less than 24 inches (610 mm) wide. A level service space at least 30 inches (762 mm) deep and 30 inches (762 mm) wide shall be present along all sides of the appliance where access is required. The clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of 20 inches by 30 inches (508 mm) by 762 mm), where such dimensions are large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance.

Exceptions

The passageway and level service space are not required where the appliance can be serviced and removed through the required opening.
Where the passageway is unobstructed and not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) high and 22 inches (559 mm) wide for its entire length, the passageway shall be not more than 50 feet (15 250 mm) long.

Issue: Failure to provide required passageways limits access for servicing

Gas Vent Termination Requirements — G2427.6.6 (503.6.7)

Gas vents for fuel-fired appliances, specifically those using gas, must adhere to strict termination requirements. The use of the "Texas Pattern Roof Jack" for termination is prohibited. Instead, gas vents must extend through the roof flashing, roof jack, or roof thimble, terminating with a listed cap. Violating this guideline, as outlined in code G2427.6.6 (503.6.7) under Roof terminations, may compromise safety and result in non-compliance.

G2427.6.6 (503.6.7) Roof terminations.

Gas vents shall extend through the roof flashing, roof jack or roof thimble and terminate with a listed cap or listed roof assembly. G2422.1.2.1 (411.1.3.1) Maximum length. Connectors shall have an overall length not to exceed 6 feet (1829 mm). Measurement shall be made along the centerline of the connector. Only one connector shall be used for each appliance.

Issue: Improper termination of gas vents

Air Intake Distance from Sewer or Exhaust Vent — R303.4.1

Mechanical and gravity outdoor air intake openings must be a minimum of 10 feet away from contaminants.

R303.4.1 Intake openings.

Mechanical and gravity outdoor air intake openings shall be located a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) from any hazardous or noxious contaminant, such as vents, chimneys, plumbing vents, streets, alleys, parking lots and loading docks. Where a source of contaminant is located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of an intake opening, such opening shall be located a minimum of 3 feet (914 mm) below the contaminant source.

Issue: Proximity to hazardous contaminants may impact indoor air quality

Disposal of Cooling System Condensate — M1411.3

Disposal of condensate from cooling coils must be made only to approved locations. Discharging condensate into inappropriate areas is a violation of code standards.

M1411.3 Condensate disposal. Condensate from all cooling coils or evaporators shall be conveyed from the drain pan outlet to an approved place of disposal. Condensate shall not discharge into a street, alley, or other areas where it would cause a nuisance.

Issue: Improper disposal of condensate from cooling systems.

Residential — Common Electrical Inspection Violations

Explore commonly missed electrical guidelines in residential construction that often result in violations, offering insights to enhance compliance during inspections. Utilizing the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC) w/amendments.

Improper Electrical Component Use — National Electrical Code NEC Article 110.3 (B)

Extension Cords Used Improperly — NEC Article 400.12

Missing Grounding or Bonding at First Overcurrent Device— NEC Article 250.24 (B)

AFCI Protection/AFCI Combination Breaker — NEC Article 210.12

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters — NEC Article 210.8

Missing or improperly installed ground fault circuit interrupters.

NEC Article 210.8

Missing or improperly installed Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)

All kitchen counter outlets.
All outlets in a garage.
Exterior outlets.
Outlets in unfinished basements and crawlspaces.
Bathroom outlets.
Outlets within 6 feet of any sink / wet-bar PVC pipe not glued properly. NEC Article 352.48

Issue: Absence or incorrect installation of GFCIs poses electrical shock hazards

Spacing and Location of Receptacles — NEC Article 210.52

Proper spacing and location of receptacles (electrical outlets) in residential dwelling units.

NEC Article 210.52

Proper spacing and location of receptacles in residential dwelling units: 6 feet-12 feet rule, and each wall with a width of 24” or greater. Spacing of outlets kitchen counter tops: 24 inch – 48" rule and each wall with a width of 12 inches or greater. Outlets installed on peninsula and island spaces.

Issue: Incorrect spacing and placement of receptacles may result in inadequate electrical access and convenience.

Protection for Wire, Nail Strips, Nail Stud Shoes — NEC Article 300.4 (A) (1)

Missing Effective Ground Fault Path — NEC Article 250.4 (A) (4)

Access for Pumps on Jacuzzi Type Bathtubs — NEC Article 680-73

City of Amarillo, TX

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