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What is NYC BC § 1613.6?

Quick Answer

This section outlines the requirements for ballasted, roof-mounted photovoltaic panel systems, specifying that they need not be rigidly attached to the roof. It details design criteria related to roof slope, resistance to sliding and uplift, and seismic considerations for certain structures. Applies to building owners installing such systems.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

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1613.6 Ballasted photovoltaic panel systems.

BC § 1613.6

Ballasted, roof-mounted photovoltaic panel systems need not be rigidly attached to the roof or supporting structure. Ballasted non-penetrating systems shall be designed and installed only on roofs with slopes not more than one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal. Ballasted nonpenetrating systems shall be designed to resist sliding and uplift resulting from lateral and vertical forces as required by Section 1605 of this code, using a coefficient of friction determined by acceptable engineering principles. In structures assigned to Seismic Design Category C or D, ballasted nonpenetrating systems shall be designed to accommodate seismic displacement determined by nonlinear response-history analysis or shake-table testing, using input motions consistent with ASCE 7 lateral and vertical seismic forces for nonstructural components on roofs.

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