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This website publishes administrative rules on their effective dates, as designated by the adopting state agencies, colleges, and universities.

Chapter 4781-6 | Installation Standards

 
 
 
Rule
Rule 4781-6-01 | Installation of new manufactured homes.
 

(A) General.

(1) Chapter 4781-6 of the Administrative Code is designated as the "Model Manufactured Home Installation Standards." The model manufactured home installation standards as adopted by the department of housing and urban development pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 3535, 5403, 5404, and 5424, and as set forth in 24 C.F.R. 3285, as the adoption date of this rule is incorporated fully as if set out at length herein but as altered with additions, substitutions, and deletions indicated in this rule.

(2) The provisions of the model manufactured home installation standards shall apply to the installation, construction, use and occupancy, and location of every new manufactured home installed in the state on private property or in a manufactured home park.

(3) The intent of this rule is to establish uniform requirements for the installation of new manufactured homes on private property or in a manufactured home park.

(4) Where, in any specific case, different parts of this rule specify different materials, methods of installation, or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between the general requirement and the specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable.

(5) Exceptions:

(a) Wood footings or wood foundations as provided in 24 C.F.R. 3285.312(a)(2), shall be prohibited in the installation of a manufactured home;

(b) Footings shall be twenty-eight-day compressive strength of three thousand pounds per square inch (psi) instead of the twelve hundred as provided in 24 C.F.R. 3285.312(a)(1)(i).

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.11, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Rule 4781-6-02 | Installation standards for used manufactured homes.
 

(A) General.

(1) Administration.

(a) Scope.

These installation standards provide minimum requirements for the initial installation of used or relocated mobile or manufactured homes and shall apply to the installation and occupancy of mobile and manufactured homes in Ohio. This includes "HUD units" and "pre-HUD units."

(b) Purpose.

The purpose of Chapter 4781-6 of the Administrative Code is to provide minimum requirements to safeguard the public safety, health, and general welfare through affordability, structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment. The requirements for used or relocated manufactured homes set forth in rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code may be exceeded by a homeowner or installer, but no authority having jurisdiction shall require a homeowner or installer to exceed rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code except where specifically permitted under Chapter 4781-6 of the Administrative Code.

(c) Applicability.

Where in any specific case, different sections of rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code specify different materials, methods of construction, or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable.

(d) Rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code shall apply to any installation of any used or relocated manufactured homes for use as a residence. Rule 4781-6-01 of the Administrative Code shall apply to any installation of a used or relocated manufactured home unless specifically set forth in rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code.

(e) Partial invalidity.

In the event any part or provision of rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code is held to be unlawful or void, this shall not have the effect of making void or unlawful any of the other parts or provisions of rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code.

(f) Existing structures.

The legal occupancy of any structure existing on the date of the adoption of rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is specifically covered in rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code, or as is deemed necessary by the authority having jurisdiction for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.

(g) Additions, alterations, replacement, or repairs to existing installation or foundation systems.

Prior to the performance of work, the authority having jurisdiction shall determine if the existing foundation system can support the load of the used manufactured home. The foundation system shall also conform to rule 4781-6-03 of the Administrative Code. If greater than fifty per cent is to be replaced or repaired, the entire installation or foundation system shall conform to the requirements for a used manufactured home, and additions, alterations, or repairs shall not cause a used manufactured home to become unsafe or adversely affected.

(h) Alternate products, equipment, and materials used during the installation of a used manufactured home that have been approved by the Ohio board of building standards and are not mentioned in rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code and not expressly prohibited in Chapter 4781. of the Revised Code or the rules promulgated thereunder may be approved for use on the installation of a used manufactured homes by the authority having jurisdiction when used in accordance with the products', equipment's, and materials' listing and labeling. Products, equipment, and material to be installed in association with the installation of manufactured homes that have not been approved by the board of building standards shall be approved by the division in advance of their use.

(i) If rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code is silent on the installation of a manufactured home that includes accessory buildings or structures, those optional elements shall be constructed in a manner consistent with the residential code of Ohio. The inspection of these optional elements does not fall under the jurisdiction of the division, but rather the board of building standards. Installers must contact the authority having jurisdiction to perform the inspection on these optional elements. Division-certified third party inspection agencies and certified health departments are not authorized to perform the inspections on these optional elements.

(2) Installation instructions.

(a) Manufacturer's instructions.

The installer shall install the used manufactured home in accordance with the manufacturer's installation manual. If there is not a manufacturer's installation manual for the installation of a used manufactured home, the installer shall install the used manufactured home in accordance with rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code or in accordance with NFPA 225.

(b) Variations to installation instructions.

When an installer does not provide support and anchorage in accordance with the approved manufacturer's installation instructions, or in accordance with rule 4781-6-02 of the Administrative Code, or encounters site or other conditions (such as areas that are subject to flood damage or high seismic risk) that prevent the use of the instructions or this rule, the installer shall: (i) first attempt to obtain DAPIA-approved designs and instructions prepared by the manufacturer; or (ii) if designs and instructions are not available from the manufacturer, obtain an alternate design prepared and certified by an Ohio registered professional engineer or registered architect for the support and anchorage of the manufactured home that is consistent with the manufactured home design, conforms to the requirements of the MHCSS, and has been approved by the manufacturer and the DAPIA.

(3) Alterations during initial installations.

Additions, modifications, replacement, or removal of any equipment that affects the installation of a used manufactured home shall meet or exceed the requirements of these installation standards, the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standard (MHCSS), 24 C.F.R. 3280, and the "Manufactured Home Procedural and Enforcement Regulations," 24 C.F.R. 3282. An alteration shall not affect the ability of the basic manufactured home to comply with the MHCSS, and the alteration shall not impose additional loads to the manufactured home or its foundation unless the alteration is included in the manufacturer's design approval primary inspection agency (DAPIA) approved designs and installation instructions, or is designed by an Ohio registered professional engineer or architect in accordance with the manufactured home design and with the MHCSS.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 6/2/2011
Rule 4781-6-03 | Reference publications and definitions for installation of new and used manufactured homes.
 
This rule was filed with the Legislative Service Commission in PDF format and is presented here as filed.
View Rule Text

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 12/1/2012
Rule 4781-6-03.1 | Pre-installation considerations.
 

(A) Site safety considerations.

(1) Distances. Fire separation distances shall be in accordance with the requirements of chapter six of NFPA 501A, 2003 edition, or the ordinances of the authority having jurisdiction, whichever is most stringent. In manufactured home parks, the division separation standards as set forth in rules 4781-12-08 and 4781-12-08.1 of the Administrative Code shall govern.

(2) Set back measurement. Setback distances are measured from the lot line or the edge of the road to the eaves, awning, carport, attached porch, or accessory building or to a deck or other combustible element of the home that projects out the furthest. In manufactured home parks, setbacks shall be measured in accordance with rule 4781-12-08 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Fire separation distances shall be in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 6 of NFPA 501A, 2005 edition, or the requirements of the local authority having jurisdiction, or the manufacturer's installation manual.

(B) Installation of manufactured homes in flood hazard areas.

(1) Definitions. Except to the extent otherwise defined in rule 4781-6-03 of the Administrative Code, the terms used in these standards are as defined in 44 C.F.R. 59.1 (October 1, 2018) of the "National Flood Insurance Program" ("NFIP") regulations.

(2) Applicability. The provisions of this rule apply to the initial installation of new or used manufactured homes. All manufactured homes located where there is a local floodplain authority shall be installed in accordance with the local floodplain authority's rules, ordinances, or resolutions.

(3) Pre-installation considerations. Prior to the initial installation of a new or used manufactured home, the installer is responsible to determine whether the manufactured home site lies wholly or partly within a special flood hazard area as shown on the authority having jurisdiction's "Flood Insurance Rate Map," "Flood Boundary and Floodway Map," or "Flood Hazard Boundary Map." If so located, and before an installation method is agreed upon, the map and supporting studies adopted by the authority having jurisdiction shall be used to determine the flood hazard zone and base flood elevation at the site.

(4) General elevation and foundation requirements.

(a) Methods and practices. Manufactured homes located wholly or partly within special flood hazard areas shall be installed on foundations engineered to incorporate methods and practices that minimize flood damage during the base flood, in accordance with the requirements of the authority having jurisdiction, the floodplain authority, FEMA 85, 44 C.F.R. 60.3(a) to (e) (October 1, 2018), other provisions of 44 C.F.R. 60 referenced by those paragraphs, Chapter 1521. of the Revised Code, and division 1501:22 of the Administrative Code.

(b) Related guidance. Refer to FEMA 85 /September 1985, "Manufactured Home Installation in Flood Hazard Areas," 1985 and the local floodplain authority.

(C) Design zone maps. The design zone maps are those identified in the MHCSS.

(1) Wind zone. Manufactured homes shall not be installed in a wind zone that exceeds the design wind loads for which the home has been designated, as evidenced by the wind zone indicated on the home's data plate. The design wind zone in Ohio is zone one; homes designed for wind zone one, wind zone two, or wind zone three are acceptable. In wind zone one, the horizontal design wind load shall not be less than fifteen pounds per square foot (psf) and the net uplift shall not be less than nine pounds per square foot (psf).

(2) Roof load zone. Manufactured homes shall not be located in a roof load zone that exceeds the design roof load for which the home has been designed as evidenced by the roof load zone indicated on the home's data plate. Refer to rule 4781-6-03.3 of the Administrative Code for special snow load conditions. The design snow load in Ohio shall not be less than twenty pounds per square foot (psf).

(3) Thermal zone. New manufactured homes shall not be installed in a thermal zone that exceeds the thermal zone for which the home has been designed as evidenced by the thermal zone indicated on the heating/cooling certificate and insulation zone map. The manufacturer may provide the heating/cooling information and insulation zone map on the home's data plate. The design thermal zone in Ohio is thermal zone three. Manufactured homes designed for thermal zone one shall not be installed in Ohio. Used manufactured homes can be thermal zone two homes.

(4) A mobile home manufactured prior to July 1, 1974 shall be exempt from the requirement to provide thermal, wind, and roof load information.

(5) A manufactured home built prior to July 1, 1974 shall be exempt from the requirement to provide thermal information.

(D) Moving manufactured home to location.

Refer to rule 4781-6-03.9 of the Administrative Code.

(E) Permits and alterations and on-site structures

Refer to rule 4781-6-03.9 and Chapter 4781-7 of the Administrative Code

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 9/15/2006
Rule 4781-6-03.2 | Site preparation.
 
This rule was filed with the Legislative Service Commission in PDF format and is presented here as filed.
View Rule Text

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 12/1/2012
Rule 4781-6-03.3 | Foundations.
 
This rule was filed with the Legislative Service Commission in PDF format and is presented here as filed.
View Rule Text

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Rule 4781-6-03.4 | Anchorage against wind.
 
This rule was filed with the Legislative Service Commission in PDF format and is presented here as filed.
View Rule Text

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/2010
Rule 4781-6-03.5 | Optional features.
 

(A) Features added during installation.

Optional equipment or features shall not take the home out of conformance with the requirements of the MHCSS and these standards.

(B) Expanding rooms.

The support and anchoring systems for expanding rooms shall be installed in accordance with designs provided by the home manufacturer or prepared by a registered professional engineer or registered architect in accordance with acceptable engineering practice.

(C) Optional appliances.

(1) Comfort cooling systems. When not provided and installed by the home manufacturer, comfort cooling systems shall be installed according to the appliance manufacturer's installation instructions.

(a) Air conditioners. Air conditioning equipment shall be listed or certified by a nationally recognized testing agency for the application for which the unit is intended and installed in accordance with the terms of its listing or certification.

(i) Energy efficiency.

(a) Site-installed central air conditioning equipment shall be sized to meet the home's heat gain requirement, in accordance with chapter twenty-eight of the ASHRAE "Handbook of Fundamentals" or ACCA "Manual J, Residential Cooling Load," eighth edition.

(b) The BTU per hour rated capacity of the site-installed air conditioning equipment shall not exceed the air distribution system's rated BTU per hour capacity as shown on the home's compliance certificate.

(ii) Circuit rating. If a manufactured home is factory provided with an exterior outlet to energize heating and/or air conditioning equipment, the branch circuit rating on the tag adjacent to this outlet shall be equal to or greater than the minimum circuit amperage identified on the equipment rating plate.

(iii) A-coil units.

(a) A-coil air conditioning units shall be compatible and listed for use with the furnace in the home and installed in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's instructions.

(b) The air conditioner manufacturer's instructions shall be followed.

(c) All condensation shall be directed beyond the perimeter of the home by means specified by the equipment manufacturer.

(b) Heat pumps. Heat pumps shall be listed or certified by a nationally recognized testing agency for the application for which the unit is intended and installed in accordance with the terms of its listing or certification.

(2) Fireplace and wood-stove chimneys and air inlets. Fireplace and wood-stove chimneys and air inlets shall be listed for use with manufactured homes and shall be installed in accordance with their listings.

(3) Appliance venting.

(a) All heat-producing appliances, except ranges and ovens, shall be vented to the exterior of the home.

(b) When the vent exhausts through the floor, the vent shall not terminate under the home and shall extend to the home's exterior and through any skirting or foundation wall that may be installed.

(4) Flood hazard areas.

(a) Outside appliances. Appliances installed on the manufactured home site shall be anchored and elevated to or above the same elevation as the minimum flood elevation of the lowest floor of the home.

(b) Air inlets and exhausts. Appliance air inlets and exhausts shall be located at or above the same elevation as the minimum flood elevation of the lowest floor of the home.

(5) Clothes dryer exhaust system duct. A clothes dryer exhaust duct system shall conform with and be completed in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's instructions and rule 4781-6-03.6 of the Administrative Code. The vents shall exhaust to the exterior of the home, beyond any perimeter skirting installed around it, as shown in figure 5A of this rule.

(D) Skirting.

(1) Skirting, if used, shall be of weather-resistant materials.

(2) Skirting shall not be attached in a manner that can cause water to be trapped between the siding and trim or forced up into the wall cavities trim to which it is attached.

(3) All wood skirting within six inches of the ground shall be pressure treated in accordance with AWPA "Standard U1 for Use Category 4A, Ground Anchor Contact Applications" or be naturally resistant to decay and termite infestations.

(4) Skirting shall not be attached in a manner that impedes the contraction and expansion characteristics of the home's exterior covering and siding.

(E) Crawlspace ventilation.

(1) A crawlspace with solid skirting shall be provided with ventilation openings. The minimum net area of ventilation openings must not be less than one square foot for every one hundred fifty square feet of the home's floor area. The total area of ventilation openings may be reduced to one square foot for every fifteen hundred square feet of the home's floor area, where uniform six mil polyethylene vapor retarder or other acceptable vapor retarder required under rule 4781-6-03.2 of the Administrative Code is placed on the ground surface beneath the entire floor area of the home with a minimum of four vents per enclosed crawlspace area.

(2) Ventilation openings shall be placed as high as practicable above the ground and located on at least two opposite sides to provide cross-ventilation. The vents shall be located within three feet of the corners of the home and unobstructed.

(3) Ventilation openings shall be covered for their full height and width with a perforated corrosion and weather resistant covering that is designed to prevent the entry of rodents. In areas subject to freezing, the coverings for the ventilation openings shall be of the adjustable type, permitting them to be in the open or closed position, depending on the climatic conditions.

(4) Access opening(s) not less than eighteen inches in width and twenty-four inches in height and not less than three square feet in area shall be provided and shall be located so that any utility connections located under the home are accessible.

(5) Condensate drains, water heater drains, and furnace drains shall be provided when specified by the HVAC manufacturer's installation instructions and in the absence of manufacturer's installation instructions, where condensate is discharged from equipment. All condensate pans and collectors shall have condensate drains. HVAC condensation drains shall pass to the outside or into another approved drain that passes to the outside of the home. Drains shall be supported in accordance with paragraph (D) of rule 4781-6-03.6 of the Administrative Code.

(6) Dryer vents and combustion air inlets shall pass through the skirting to the outside of the home. See figure 5A "Dryer Exhaust system" of this rule.

Last updated July 7, 2021 at 8:38 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 12/1/2012
Rule 4781-6-03.6 | Ductwork and plumbing and fuel supply systems.
 

(A) Field assembly.

Home manufacturers shall provide specific installation instructions for the proper field assembly of manufacturer-supplied and shipped loose ducts, plumbing, and fuel supply system parts that are necessary to join all sections of the home and shall be designed to be located underneath the home. The installation instructions shall be designed in accordance with applicable requirements of the MHCSS. Where manufacturer's installation instructions are not available or do not address an element of the installation, the Ohio plumbing code, the Ohio mechanical code, and this rule shall govern.

(B) Utility connections.

Refer to rule 4781-6-03.9 of the Administrative Code.

(C) Water supply.

(1) Crossover. Multi-section homes with plumbing in both sections require water-line crossover connections to join all sections of the home.

(2) Maximum supply pressure and reduction. When the local water supply pressure exceeds eighty pounds per square inch to the manufactured home, a pressure-reducing valve shall be installed.

(3) Mandatory shutoff valve.

(a) An identified and accessible shutoff valve shall be installed between the water supply and the inlet.

(b) The water riser for the shut-off valve connection shall be located underneath or adjacent to the manufactured home with the shut-off valve accessible within three feet of the point where the water supply enters the perimeter of the manufactured home or emerges from underground.

(c) The shutoff valve shall be a full-flow gate or ball valve, or equivalent valve.

(4) Freezing protection. Water line crossovers completed during installation shall be protected from freezing.

(a) If subject to freezing temperatures, the water connection shall be wrapped with insulation or otherwise protected to prevent freezing.

(b) In areas subject to freezing or subfreezing temperatures, exposed sections of water supply piping, shutoff valves, pressure reducers, and pipes in water heater compartments shall be insulated or otherwise protected from freezing.

(c) Use of pipe-heating cable. Only pipe-heating cable listed for the intended use shall be permitted to be used. It shall be fused or used with a fused plug and shall be installed in accordance with the cable manufacturer's installation instructions.

(5) Testing procedures.

(a) The water system shall be inspected and tested for leaks after completion at the site in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. Where no manufacturer's installation manual test procedure is available, the test shall be performed in accordance with testing procedures provided on forms approved by the division.

(b) The water heater shall be disconnected when using an air-only test to prevent damage to the water heater for pressures above eighty psi.

(D) Drainage system.

(1) Crossovers. Multi-section homes with plumbing in more than one section require drainage system crossover connections to join all sections of the home.

(2) Assembly and support. If portions of the drainage system were shipped loose because the portions were necessary to join all sections of the home and designed to be located underneath the home, the portions shall be installed and supported in accordance with the manufacturer's home installation instructions or the division's rules.

(3) Proper slopes. Drains shall be completed in accordance with manufacturer's home installation instructions or the division's rules.

(a) Drain lines shall not slope less than one-quarter inch per foot unless otherwise noted on the schematic diagram, as shown in figure 6.1 of this rule.

(b) A slope of one-eighth inch per foot may be permitted when a clean out is installed at the upper end of the run.

(4) Testing procedures.

The drainage system shall be inspected and tested for leaks after completion at the site in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. Where no manufacturer's installation manual test procedure is available, the test shall be performed in accordance with testing procedures provided on forms approved by the division.

(E) Fuel supply system.

(1) Proper supply pressure. The gas piping system in the home is designed for a pressure that is at least ten inches of water column [5.8 ounces per square inch or 0.36 psi] and not more than fourteen inches of water column [eight ounces per square inch 0.5 psi]. If gas from any supply source exceeds, or could exceed, this pressure, a regulator shall be installed.

(2) Crossovers.

Multi-section homes with fuel supply piping in both sections require crossover connections to join all sections of the home.

(3) Testing procedures. The gas system shall be inspected and tested for leaks after completion at the site in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. Where no manufacturer's installation manual test procedure is available, the test shall be performed in accordance with testing procedures on forms approved by the division.

(F) Ductwork connections.

(1) Crossovers. Multi-section homes with ductwork in more than one section require crossover connections to complete the duct system of the home. All ductwork connections, including duct collars, shall be sealed to prevent air leakage. Galvanized metal straps or tape and mastics listed to UL 181 A or UL181 B shall be used around the duct collar and secured tightly to make all connections.

(2) If metal straps are used, the metal straps shall be secured with galvanized sheet metal screws.

(3) Metal ducts shall be fastened to the collar with a minimum of three galvanized sheet metal screws equally spaced around the collar.

(4) Air conditioning or heating ducts shall be installed in accordance with applicable requirements of the duct manufacturer's installation instructions.

(5) The duct shall be suspended or supported above the ground by straps or other approved means that are spaced at a maximum distance not to exceed four feet or as otherwise permitted by the installation instructions. When straps are used to support a flexible type duct, the straps shall be at least three-fourths of an inch wide and shall be installed such that the straps cannot slip between any two spirals and arranged under the floor to prevent compression or kinking in any location, as shown in figures 6A and 6B of this rule.

(6) Crossover ducts outside the thermal envelope of the manufactured home, in uninsulated basements or uninsulated crawlspaces, shall be insulated to an R-value of four or better in accordance with ASTM C-518, UL181 for flexible ducts or equal thermal protection and covered with a vapor retarder.

(7) In-floor or ceiling crossover duct connections shall be installed and sealed to prevent air leakage.

(8) Support of crossover ducts does not include resting loose on rocks, brick, blocks, or other materials resting on the ground.

(9) Floor joists shall not be notched or cut into in any way during the installation of on-site ductwork.

(10) Repair any tears in the outlining of ductwork and cover all exposed metal surfaces, boots, and connections with insulation with a minimum R-value of four and a vapor barrier.

Last updated July 7, 2021 at 8:38 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 6/2/2011
Rule 4781-6-03.7 | Electrical systems and equipment.
 
This rule was filed with the Legislative Service Commission in PDF format and is presented here as filed.
View Rule Text

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 12/1/2012
Rule 4781-6-03.8 | Exterior and interior close-up.
 

(A) Final leveling of a manufactured home.

The manufactured home shall be leveled before completion of the installation. A home shall be considered level when no more than a quarter-inch difference exists between any two adjacent piers and no more than one-half inch difference exists between any point on the frame of the home to any comparable point on the frame on the opposite side or end of the home. Where two sections are joined at the marriage line, the maximum tolerance at the floor between the sections shall not exceed one-quarter inch vertical difference in height.

(B) Exterior close-up.

(1) Exterior siding and roofing necessary to join all sections of the home shall be installed according to the product manufacturer's installation instructions and shall be fastened in accordance with the designs and manufacturer's instructions and consistent with this rule. Exterior close-up strips/trim shall be fastened securely and sealed with exterior sealant (see figure 8A of this rule).

(2) Joints and seams. All joints and seams in exterior wall coverings that were disturbed during location of the home shall be made weatherproof.

(3) Prior to installing the siding, the polyethylene sheeting covering exterior walls for transit shall be completely removed.

(4) Holes in the roof made in transit or setup shall be made weatherproof and sealed with a sealant or other material that is suitable for use with the roofing materials in which the hole is made.

(5) Mate-line gasket. The installer shall use the home manufacturer's materials and designs for mate-line gaskets or other methods designed to resist the entry of air, water, water vapor, insects, and rodents at all mate-line locations exposed to the exterior when available. Where the mate-line gasket material is not available from the manufactured home manufacturer, two-inch foam sealed inside a vapor barrier sheathing type gasket, or one-inch by four-inch fiberglass roll, a batt, or its equivalent shall be installed in accordance with Figure 8B of this rule.

(6) Hinged roofs and eaves. Hinged roofs and eaves shall be completed during installation so as to comply with the MHCSS and these standards. However, some hinged roofs may be subject to specific on-site or alternative construction requirements issued separately by HUD. Generally, hinged roof homes are not subject to such special requirements as long as:

(a) The homes are designed to be located in wind zone one;

(b) The completed hinged roof pitch is less than seven units vertical in twelve units horizontal; and

(c) Fuel burning appliance flue penetrations are not above the hinge.

(C) Structural interconnection of multi-section homes.

(1) For multi-section homes, structural interconnections along the interior and exterior at the mate-line are necessary to join all sections of the home.

(2) The interconnections shall be completed in accordance with the manufactured home installation manual or, if not available, these standards to ensure a completely integrated structure.

(3) Upon completion of the exterior close-up, no gaps shall be permitted between the structural elements being interconnected along the mate-line of multi-section homes. However, prior to completion of the exterior close-up, minor gaps that do not exceed one inch shall be permitted between structural elements provided the gaps are closed before completion of close-up, the home sections are in contact with each other, and the mating gasket is providing a proper seal. Gaps greater than one-fourth inch shall be shimmed tight, and fastener lengths used to make connections between the structural elements shall be increased to provide adequate penetration into the receiving member. Gaps between one inch and one-fourth inch in the walls or floor shall be filled with plywood shims or its equivalent.

(4) Multi-section homes with no manufacturer's installation instructions shall be assembled by lagging the floor rim joist approximately center between the floor joists not to exceed twenty-four inches on centers. The lag bolt shall be a minimum three-eighths inch by five inches lag bolt or screw with a standard three eighths inch flat washer.

(5) Multi-section homes with no manufacturer's installation instructions shall be connected at the roof with one and one-half inch wide perforated strapping connecting one rafter to the opposite rafter, affixed with three-inch screws, two inches on each side of the ridge. Strapping shall be concealed by the ridge cap. Lags shall not be substituted for the strapping and screws unless the dimensional lumber to be joined by the lags is of sufficient size to accept the lags or required by an Ohio registered professional engineer or registered architect.

(6) Multi-section homes with no manufacturer's installation instructions shall be connected at the end walls with a number ten screw, four and one-half inches or approved equal, toe screwed every sixteen inches alternate sides.

(D) Bottom board repair.

(1) The bottom board covering shall be inspected for any loosening or areas that might have been damaged or torn during installation or transportation. Any missing insulation shall be replaced prior to closure and repair of the bottom board.

(2) Any splits or tears in the bottom board shall be resealed with bottom board fabric tape or patches in accordance with methods provided in the manufacturer's installation instructions. Duct tape shall not be used to repair bottom board.

(3) Plumbing P-traps shall be checked to be sure they are well insulated and covered.

(4) All edges of repaired bottom board areas shall be taped with bottom board fabric tape or otherwise equivalently sealed.

(E) Interior close-up.

(1) All shipping, blocking, strapping, or bracing shall be removed from appliances, windows, and doors.

(2) At a minimum, shipped-loose wall paneling necessary for the joining of all sections of the home shall be installed by using polyvinyl acetate (PVA) or equal adhesive on all framing members and fastened with minimum one-inch long staples or nails at six inches on center panel edges and twelve inches on center in the field, unless alternative fastening methods are required in the manufactured home's installation instructions. (See figure 8C of this rule).

(F) Stairway walking surface.

The walking surface of the treads and landings of stairways shall be sloped no steeper than one unit vertical in forty-eight units horizontal (two per cent slope).

(G) Handrails.

Handrails shall be provided on at least one side of each continuous run of treads or flights with four or more risers.

(1) Handrail height, measured vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall not be less than thirty-four inches (864 mm) and not more than thirty-eight inches (965 mm).

(2) Handrails for stairways shall be continuous for the full length of the flight, from a point directly above the lowest riser of the flight. Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than one and one-half inch (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.

(3) Exceptions:

(a) Handrails shall be permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at the turn.

(b) The use of a volute, turnout, start easing, or starting newel shall be allowed over the lowest tread.

(c) Two or more separate rails shall be considered continuous if the termination of the rails occurs over a single tread and within four inches (101.6 mm) of each other. If the transition occurs between a wall mounted handrail and handrail/guardrail combination, the wall mounted handrail shall return into the wall.

(H) Handrail grip size.

All required handrails shall be of one of the following types or shall be equivalent graspability.

(1) Type I. Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of at least one and one-fourth inches (32 mm) and not greater than two inches (51 mm). If the handrail is not circular, it shall have a perimeter dimension of at least four inches (102 mm) and not greater than six and one-fourth inches (160 mm) with a maximum cross section dimension of two and one-fourth inches (57 mm).

(2) Type II. Handrails with a perimeter greater than six and one-half inches (160 mm) shall provide a graspable finger recess area on both sides of the profile. The finger recess shall begin within a distance of three-quarters inch (19 mm) measured vertically from the tallest portion of the profile and achieve a depth of at least five-sixteenths inch (8 mm) within seven-eighths inch (10 mm) to a level that is not less than one and three-quarters inches (45 mm) below the tallest portion of the profile. The minimum width of the handrails above the recess shall be one and one-fourth inches (32 mm) to a maximum of 2 and three-quarters inches (70mm). Edges shall have a minimum radius of 0.01 inches (0.25 mm).

(I) Bulkhead enclosure stairways.

Stairways serving bulkhead enclosures, not part of the required building egress, providing access from the outside grade level to the basement shall be exempt from the requirements of this rule where the maximum height from the basement finished floor level to grade adjacent to the stairway does not exceed eight feet (2438 mm), and the grade level opening the stairway is covered by a bulkhead enclosure with hinged doors or other approved means. Where a stairway of two or fewer risers is located on the exterior side of a door, other than the required exit door, a landing is not required for the exterior side of the door.

(J) Ramps.

(1) Maximum slope. Ramps shall have a maximum slope of one unit vertical in eight units horizontal (12.5 per cent slope).

(2) Landings required. A minimum three-feet-by-three-feet (914 mm by 914 mm) landing shall be provided:

(a) At the top and bottom of ramps;

(b) Where doors open onto ramps; and

(c) Where ramps change direction.

(3) Handrails required. Handrails shall be provided on at least one side of all ramps exceeding a slope of one unit vertical in twelve units horizontal (8.33 per cent slope).

(4) Height. Handrail height, measured above the finished surface of the ramp slope, shall be not less than thirty-four inches (864 mm) and not more than thirty-eight inches (965 mm).

(5) Handrail grip size. Handrails on ramps shall comply with this rule.

(6) Continuity. Handrails where required on ramps shall be continuous for the full length of the ramp. Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than one and one-half inches (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.

(K) Landings at doors.

(1) There shall be a floor or landing on each side of each exterior door, except as follows:

(a) The floor or landing at the interior side of the exit door required by rule 4781-6-03.9 of the Administrative Code shall not be more than one and one-half inches (38 mm) lower than the top of the threshold. The floor or landing at exterior doors other than the exit door required by rule 4781-6-03.9 of the Administrative Code shall not be required to comply with this requirement, but shall have a rise no greater than that permitted by this rule.

(b) Where a stairway of two or fewer risers is located on the exterior side of a door, other than the required exit door, a landing is not required for the exterior side of the door. The landing at the exterior side of the doorway shall not be more than eight and one-fourth inches (210 mm) below the top of the threshold.

(2) The width of each landing shall not be less than the door served. Every landing shall have a minimum dimension of twenty-four inches (610 mm) measured in the direction of travel, but no less than the dimension of the door that swings over the landing.

(3) Type of lock or latch. All egress doors shall be readily openable from the side from which egress is to be made without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.

(L) Stairways.

(1) Width. Stairways shall not be less than thirty-six inches (914 mm) in clear width at all points above the permitted handrails height and below the required headroom height. Handrails shall not project more than four and one-half inches (114 mm) on either side of the stairway. Where a handrail is installed on one side, the minimum clear width of the stairway at and below the handrail height, including treads and landings, shall not be less than thirty-one and one-half inches (787 mm). Where handrails are provided on both sides, the minimum clear width of the stairway at and below the handrail height, including treads and landings, shall not be less than twenty-seven inches (698 mm).

(2) All stairs shall be illuminated in accordance with the requirements in the 2008 national electric code (NEC).

(M) Headroom. The minimum headroom in all parts of the stairway shall not be less than six feet eight inches (2036 mm) measured vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing or from the floor surface of the landing or platform.

(N) Stair treads and risers.

(1) Riser height. The maximum riser height shall be eight and one-fourth inches (210 mm). The riser shall be measured vertically between leading edges of the adjacent treads. The greatest riser height within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than three-eighths of an inch (9.5 mm).

(2) Tread depth. The minimum tread depth shall be nine inches (229 mm). The tread depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads and at a right angle to the tread's leading edge. The greatest tread depth within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than three-eighths of an inch (9.5 mm). Winder treads shall have a minimum tread depth of nine inches (229 mm) measured as above at a point twelve inches (305 mm) from the side where the tread is narrower. Winder treads shall have a minimum tread depth of six inches (152 mm) at any point. Within any flight of stairs, the greatest winder tread depth at the twelve-inch (305 mm) walk line shall not exceed the smallest by more than three-eighths of an inch (9.5 mm).

(3) Profile. The radius of curvature at the leading edge of the tread shall be no greater than nine-sixteenths of an inch (14.3 mm). A nosing not less than three-fourths of an inch (19 mm) but not more than one and one-fourth inches (32 mm) shall be provided on stairways with solid risers. The greatest nosing projection shall not exceed the smallest nosing projection by more than three-eighths of an inch (9.5 mm) between two stories, including the nosing at the level of floors and landings. Beveling of nosing shall not exceed one-half inch (12.7 mm). Risers shall be vertical or sloped from the underside of the leading edge of the tread above at an angle not more than thirty (0.51 rad) degrees from the vertical. Open risers are permitted, provided that the opening between treads does not permit the passage of a four-inch diameter (102 mm) sphere. Exceptions:

(a) A nosing is not required where the tread depth is a minimum of eleven inches (279 mm).

(b) The opening between adjacent treads is not limited on stairs with a total rise of thirty inches (762 mm) or less.

(O) Landings for stairways.

(1) There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway unless a floor or landing is not required at the top of an interior flight of stairs, provided a door does not swing over the stairs.

(2) A flight of stairs shall not have a vertical rise greater than twelve feet (3658 mm) between floor levels or landings.

(3) The width of each landing shall not be less than the stairway served. Every landing shall have a minimum dimension of thirty-six inches (914 mm) measured in the direction of travel.

(P) Guards (railings) required. Porches, balconies, or raised floor surfaces located more than thirty inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below shall have guards thirty-six inches (914 mm) in height. Open sides of stairs with a total rise of more than thirty inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below shall have guards not less than thirty-four inches (864 mm) in height measured vertically from the nosing of the treads.

(1) Guard opening limitations. Required guards on open sides of stairways, raised floor areas, balconies, and porches shall have intermediate rails or ornamental closures that do not allow the passage of a sphere four inches (102 mm) or more in diameter.

(2) Side approach. Platform must be thirty-six inches in projection. Railing must be on one side and at the end of door swing.

(3) Exception. The triangular openings formed by the riser, tread, and bottom rail of a guard at the open side of the stairway are permitted to be of such size that a sphere six inches (152 mm) or more in diameter cannot pass through.

Last updated July 7, 2021 at 8:38 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Rule 4781-6-03.9 | Information for installers.
 
This rule was filed with the Legislative Service Commission in PDF format and is presented here as filed.
View Rule Text

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.11, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/2010
Rule 4781-6-03.10 | Stable foundations - division-approved alternative park installations.
 

(A) Stable foundations for used manufactured homes - general.

(1) Division -approved designs and details shall be acceptable alternatives for installations of used manufactured homes only for licensed manufactured housing parks or as otherwise specified in Chapter 4781-6 of the Administrative Code. Where an item is not mentioned specifically in one of these alternative designs, that installation item or element shall meet the state of Ohio manufactured home installation standards under Chapter 4781-6 of the Administrative Code. A foundation design method must be employed in its entirety. If an item or element is specified in the selected alternative design, that item or element or an equal or more stringent item or element shall be part of the installation. At the time of permit approval and prior to the installation, the alternative design must be selected and the authority having jurisdiction informed as to which installation foundation alternative design or method the installer seeks approval to use.

(2) These alternatives are not appropriate for use in areas located within a one-hundred-year flood plain.

(B) Alternate method 1 - existing manufactured home parks.

(C) Alternate method 2 - division park installation alternative foundation designs.

The division may approve and distribute alternative park installation foundation designs, including designs using runners, ribbons, or slabs that do not meet the requirements for a permanent foundation, when all of the following are met:

(1) The complete installation foundation design has been reviewed and recommended for approval by the division;

(2) The installation foundation design shall not take the manufactured home out of compliance with the MHCSS;

(3) The installation foundation design shall provide protection to residents of manufactured housing that equals or exceeds the protection provided by the installation standards for used manufactured homes set forth in Chapter 4781-6 of the Administrative Code, except for frost depth requirements for ribbons, runners, and slabs;

(4) The installation foundation design shall have broad applicability for use in a variety of locations throughout Ohio and provide for the MHCSS, Ohio design loads, various Ohio soil conditions, and other design conditions throughout Ohio. The installation foundation design shall clearly specify any conditions, limitations, or requirements, including site conditions specific to the designs;

(5) The installation foundation design shall include the dimensions of footings, runners, ribbons, or slab; anchorage details including spacing and general specifications for anchors; and pier and blocking spacing requirements;

(6) The installation foundation design shall be prepared by an Ohio registered architect or professional engineer who has agreed to release his or her copyright control over the installation foundation design for distribution by the division as a public record; and

(7) The division may request additional drawings, details, and/or structural calculations to be prepared and sealed by a licensed architect or professional engineer who has agreed to release his or her copyright control over the installation foundation design for distribution by the division as a public record as supporting documents for the installation foundation design prior to approval by the division.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Rule 4781-6-03.11 | Division-approved alternative installation designs for used manufactured homes.
 

(A) General.

(1) Division-approved installation designs and details shall be acceptable alternatives for installations of used manufactured homes on private property or in manufactured home parks. Where an item is not mentioned specifically in a division -approved alternative design, that installation item or element shall meet the state of Ohio used manufactured home installation standards under Chapter 4781-6 of the Administrative Code. A foundation design method must be employed in its entirety. If an item or element is specified in the selected alternative design, that item or element or an equal or more stringent item or element shall be part of the installation. At the time of permit approval and prior to the installation, the alternative design must be selected and the authority having jurisdiction informed as to which installation foundation alternative design or method the installer seeks approval to use.

(2) In addition to the used manufactured home installation requirements of Chapter 4781. of the Revised Code, installations in a manufactured home park may have additional requirements pursuant to rule 4781-12-08 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Unless specifically indicated as appropriate for use within a one-hundred-year flood plain, these alternatives shall not be used in areas located within a one-hundred-year flood plain.

(B) Alternate method - division alternative foundation designs.

The division may approve and distribute alternative installation foundation designs when all of the following are met:

(1) The complete installation foundation design has been reviewed and recommended for approval by the division;

(2) The installation foundation design shall not take the manufactured home out of compliance with the federal manufactured home construction and safety standards (MHCSS);

(3) The installation foundation design shall provide protection to residents of manufactured housing that equals or exceeds the protection provided by the used manufactured homes installation standards set forth in Chapter 4781-6 of the Administrative Code;

(4) The installation foundation design shall have broad applicability for use in a variety of locations throughout Ohio and provide for the MHCSS, Ohio design loads, various Ohio soil conditions, and other design conditions throughout Ohio. The installation foundation design shall clearly specify any conditions, limitations, or requirements, including site conditions specific to the designs;

(5) The installation foundation design shall include the dimensions of footings, runners, ribbons, or slab; anchorage details including spacing and general specifications for anchors; and pier and blocking spacing requirements;

(6) The installation foundation design shall be prepared by an Ohio licensed professional architect or engineer who has agreed to release his or her copyright control over the installation foundation design for distribution by the division as a public record; and

(7) The division may request additional drawings, details, and/or structural calculations to be prepared and sealed by a licensed architect or professional engineer who has agreed to release his or her copyright control over the installation foundation design for distribution by the division as a public record as supporting documents for the installation foundation design prior to approval by the division.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4781.04, 4781.14
Amplifies: 4781.04, 4781.14
Five Year Review Date: 1/20/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 7/1/2007