Daily Code Talk #6 – IMC Section 106: Construction Documents

🧠 Plain English Breakdown•What to submit (106.1): Submit at least two complete hard-copy sets (or a digital submittal if permitted by the building official) of drawings, calculations, diagrams, specs, and data with the permit application. Where state law requires, documents must be prepared/sealed by a registered design professional (RDP). For special conditions, the code official may require additional RDP documents.•Quality (106.1): Drawings must be to scale and clear enough to show location, nature, and extent of work and how it complies with the IMC.•Penetrations (106.1): For buildings over two stories, indicate all mechanical penetrations and the materials/methods used to maintain structural safety, fire-resistance rating, and fireblocking.Waiver (106.1 Exception): The code official may waive full submittals for simple work when a review set isn’t needed to verify compliance.•Retention & on-site set (106.2): The AHJ retains one approved set for ≥180 days after completion (or per law). One approved set must remain on site while work is in progress.🏗️ Why It Matters in Design & Construction Concise, scaled, RDP-sealed documents speed permits and reduce RFIs. Calling out penetrations and rated-assembly details up front prevents firestop redlines at inspection. The approved on-site set controls the job—if field conditions change, cloud, revise, and re-approve rather than building from unofficial markups.🔧 Field TipInclude a one-page index that points to: (1) a penetration matrix (assembly ID, rating, tested system ID, sealant/packing, sheet ref) and (2) a calc summary with key assumptions. Ask the AHJ about digital submittals or a waiver for like-for-like swaps. Keep the approved set on site and submit revisions promptly when conditions change.