Design Criteria

The following design criteria apply to construction within the Town of Pierce and outline environmental conditions, structural requirements, and adopted building codes used for permitting and development review.

Structural and Environmental Design Requirements

Wind Speed

  • 115 MPH (Ultimate)

Seismic Classification

  • Seismic Design Category B

Environmental Exposure Conditions

Structures in the Town of Pierce may be subject to damage from the following conditions:

  • Weathering: Severe
  • Frost Line: 30 inches
  • Termite Risk: Slight to Moderate

Snow Load Requirements

  • Roof Snow Load:
    • 30 PSF Live Load
    • 15 PSF Dead Load
  • Ground Snow Load:
    • 30 PSF

Floor Load Requirements

  • Sleeping Areas: 30 pounds per square foot (PSF)
  • Other Areas: 40 pounds per square foot (PSF)

Deflection Limits

  • Floors: L/360
  • Rafters: L/180

Temperature Design Values

  • Winter Design Temperature: 1°F
  • Mean Annual Temperature: 45°F

Soil Bearing Capacity

  • 1,500 PSF (assumed)

Special Construction Requirements

  • Ice and water shield required
  • Under-floor protection required

Adopted Codes

The Town of Pierce has adopted the following building and construction codes.

Residential Construction Codes

  • 2024 International Residential Code (IRC)
  • 2024 Energy Conservation Code
  • 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC)

Commercial Construction Codes

  • 2024 International Building Code (IBC)
  • 2024 International Plumbing Code (IPC)
  • 2024 International Mechanical Code (IMC)
  • 2024 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
  • 2024 International Energy Code (IECC)
  • 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC)
  • 2024 Pool and Spa Code

Other Adopted Codes

  • 2024 International Property Maintenance Code
  • 2024 International Existing Building Code

State Code Requirements

The following state-level construction requirements apply:

  • Electric Ready
  • Solar Ready
  • EV Ready