Georgia Storm Shelter Code 2014

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