Indiana's Building Codes for a Roof Truss

Definition of Roof Trusses

• The IDHS template defines an engineered roof truss as a structural assembly constructed from wood, light gauge metal and other materials. It supports a floor or a roof and is not a vertical member, such as a post or a column. By the code's definition, the lumber used in the truss must have a smaller cross section than that used in conventional construction. An assembly that meets the ASTM Standard E119, which means it is certified to provide a minimum of one hour of fire resistance, is not included in this definition.

Placard Requirements

• The sample building code requires that any building that incorporates engineered roof or floor trusses as defined in the code be marked with a placard that notifies first responders of the existence of the trusses in the building. The placard must be a specific color as designated in the code, and it must contain text that indicates the location of the trusses within the building. The placard must measure at least 3.5 to 4.5 inches but can be no bigger than 5 to 5.5 inches.

Placard Placement

• The code template specifies that the required placard must be located below the building's electrical meter if the building has electrical service. If there is no electrical service, the placard should be located on the left side of the building's front entrance, between 4 and 6 feet above the ground. According to the template, local building authorities may include additional placard locations in their own codes. The template states that all placards must be permanently affixed in their designated locations.

Permit Requirements

• According to the template, an application for a building permit must include information on the types and location of trusses used in the building. A permit may not be issued unless a placard is issued by the local Building Commissioner and a fee of no more than $5.00 is collected. Inspection must show that the placard is properly affixed before final approval or a certificate of occupancy can be issued, and the local fire department and 911 call center must be notified by the Building Commissioner within 10 days after issuance of the permit. The chief of the fire department must then maintain and post information regarding the building's trusses, and the 911 dispatcher must notify first responders about the trusses in the event of a fire.