H706 - Building Code/Rustic Cabins (SL 2015-19)

Overview: S.L. 2015-19 modifies the regulation of open air camp cabins under the North Carolina Building Code. "Open air camp cabin" means a single-story structure that (i) has three walls consisting of at least twenty percent (20%) screened openings no more than 44 inches above the floor; (ii) has no heating or cooling system; (iii) is occupied for no more than 150 days within any rolling 365-day time span; and (iv) accommodates 36 or fewer persons.

This act provides that for open air camp cabins, the Building Code Council must not enforce requirements more stringent than the following:

• The open air camp cabin must have at least two remote unimpeded exits, but lighted exit signs are not required.
• The open air camp cabin is not required to have plumbing or electrical systems, but if the cabin has these systems, then the provisions of the Building Code otherwise applicable to those systems apply.
• Smoke detectors and handheld fire extinguishers may be required as otherwise provided in the Building Code, but no requirement for a sprinkler system may be imposed.

The Building Code Council must amend the Building Code to be consistent with these provisions.

This act became effective May 14, 2015.