HomeMy WebLinkAboutA003 - Memo from Building Official to Downtown Businesses, code compliance to facade changes Memo
Fire Department/ Inspections Division
TO: Downtown Business and Property Owners
FROM: Jeff Pearson, City of Ames Building Official
DATE: January 26, 2001
SUBJECT: Code Compliance for Changes to Buildings Downtown
Recently, there was a meeting at City Hall regarding design guidelines for downtown structures.
Questions were raised regarding the effect of the Municipal Building Codes on changes that will be
made to the front facades of downtown buildings. More specifically, there was concern expressed that
changes to the exterior of the front facade would trigger Building Code compliance throughout the entire
structure. The Codes we are referring to are the Ames Municipal Building, Electrical, Mechanical and
the Plumbing Codes.
Obviously, we would have to consider each project on a case-by-case basis; however, generally
speaking, what is removed would have to be replaced in compliance with today's standards. Renovation
of the front facade of the building would not require code compliance for the entire building. The extent
of interior improvements would determine if code compliance would be required for other parts of the
building. If a large portion of the interior space is part of the renovation project, code compliance for the
entire building may apply. If interior space changes were restricted to the front portion of the building,
code compliance would not be mandatory for the entire building.
A change in the type of use for the building would require code compliance for the new occupancy type.
If the use remains the same, code compliance may not be an issue. If an existing residential use on the
second floor is remodeled, the remodeled portion must comply too current building codes,but would not
need an elevator installed. Other uses may also be located on the upper level without an elevator as long
as they are not a medical facility, governmental use, or shopping center. Keep in mind that the Building
Codes are also sensitive to changes for the purpose of historic preservation and it does allow the
Building Official some discretion in approving changes for that purpose.
If you have specific questions about changes you are contemplating for your own building, and/or
business,please contract me at 239-5155, and I will be glad to answer your questions regarding how the
Building Codes will impact your project.
RECEIVED
JAN 2 G 2001
CITY OF AM ,IOWA No
DEPT.OF PLANNI