Requesting a Code Interpretation

1. Questions must be written so that they can be answered "yes" or "no."
2. A request for interpretation will not be considered if it:
   -  Involves the acceptability of a design, installation or product;
   -  Involves the review of construction documents or requires an on-site inspection;
   -  Involves text that clearly provides the requested information;
   -  Involves a subject that is outside the scope of the Code;
   -  Or involves a subject for which an interpretation has previously been issued and is still valid.
3. The request must include a statement which includes specific references to a single problem and identifies the specific section of the Code for which the interpretation is requested. A request involving an actual field situation must state such, and all parties involved must be named and notified by the person requesting the interpretation.

Requirements for Submission

MAIL two copies (one copy, if submitted by the CEO and the request includes the opinion of the CEO) of the complete package, with original signatures to:
        New York State Department of State Division of Building Standards and Codes
        One Commerce Plaza, 99 Washington Avenue, Suite 1160 Albany, NY 12231

An acknowledgment letter will be sent to the requesting party indicating the file number of the request. A letter and a copy of the request is sent to the code enforcement official of the municipality involved to solicit comments.

Code Interpretation Form

View Code Interpretations

For More Information, Contact:
        New York State Department of State Division of Building Standards and Codes
        One Commerce Plaza, 99 Washington Avenue, Suite 1160, Albany, NY 12231
        Phone: (518) 474-4073
        Fax: (518) 486-4487