Massachusetts Solar Roof Setback Requirements

[TheElectrician]

Hey Guys,

I am designing a commercial rooftop in MA, and would like to know about what fire codes they follow for installation. If anyone could point me to a source/code that talks about this will be much appreciated.

For example, here on NYC we use 6 feet setback for the roof's perimeter and have a 6 feet fire pathway for every 100'. I am looking for similar information for MA. Thanks!

 

[BandGap1.1eV]

IFC 605.11. https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IFC2015/chapter-6-building-services-and-systems

Enjoy.

And of course, this is all dependent on the AHJ and the roof in question. These requirements tend to get inforced more closely in large flat rooftops. Local juridictions also have a tendency to adopt their own requirements via Zoning Guidelines.

 

[TheElectrician]

Thank you also, found out that they follow NFPA 1 2015 as follows:

11.12 Photovoltaic Systems

11.12.2.2.1.2 Pitch. Designation of ridge, hip, and valley shall not apply to roofs with 2-in-12 or less pitch.

11.12.2.2.2.2 Ridge Setback. Photovoltaic modules shall be located not less than 3 ft (914 mm) below the ridge

11.12.2.2.3.1 Access. A minimum 4 ft (1219 mm) wide clear perimeter shall be provided around the edges of the roof for buildings with a length or width of 250 ft (76.2 m) or less along either axis. A minimum 6 ft (1829 mm) wide clear perimeter shall be provided around the edges of the roof for buildings having length or width greater than 250 ft (76.2 m) along either axis.

11.12.2.2.3.3.1 Maximum Array. Arrays of photovoltaic modules shall be no greater than 150 ft (45.7 m) × 150 ft (45.7 m) in distance in either axis.