101.2 - Public Utility Buildings

Question:
Are unmanned public utility buildings that are used solely for housing power generating or
distribution equipment or telephone switching equipment and located on land owned by that
same utility company exempt from building permits under NC Building Code, Section 101.2,
exemption #4?

Answer:
Yes, such buildings are exempt if the building and property are owned by a public utility
company as defined by NCGC62-3. As unmanned buildings they pose little or no threat to
human life or safety. The intent of the note under Section 101.2, exception #4 is to address
life/safety of manned buildings. Unmanned buildings are expected to be regulated by the NC
Public Utility Commission.

Keywords:
energy, electricity, electrical, generation, telephony, gear