Adoption Info
- ICC/NSSA Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters (ICC 500-2014) with Georgia-specific amendments
Effective Dates
- January 1, 2014 – Present
Adopts with Amendments
- ICC 500-2014 Standard
Scope
- The provisions of the Georgia Storm Shelter Code apply to the design, construction, installation, and maintenance of storm shelters intended to provide protection during extreme wind events, such as tornadoes and hurricanes. This code covers residential, community, and commercial storm shelters, setting minimum standards for structural integrity, occupant safety, and emergency egress.
Exception #1: Storm shelters for detached one- and two-family dwellings are not required unless mandated by local ordinances or specific hazard zones.
Exception #2: Existing buildings are not required to comply with the provisions of this code unless a storm shelter is newly constructed or significantly altered.
CODE REFERENCE GUIDE
| Area | Primary | Supplement |
|---|---|---|
| Structural Integrity | ICC 500 | NONE |
| Wind Load Design | ICC 500 | NONE |
| Occupant Capacity | ICC 500 | NONE |
| Emergency Egress and Access | ICC 500 | IBC |
| Ventilation and Lighting | ICC 500 | NONE |
| Fire Protection | ICC 500 | IFC |
| Inspection and Maintenance | ICC 500 | NONE |
| Signage and Marking | ICC 500 | NONE |

AIA
President
Washington, DC