What is the code for a tree house?

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escape

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I was asked this question by an electrician: What code do i use to wire a tree house? I told him it should be wired just like a storage with GFI protection, but he said the owner wanted to use as play room and the square footage is 20 by 20 does he have to meet the 6'-12' spacing?
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

I would say no as it's not considered a dwelling unit. Just my opinion. I would definetly insist on gfi protection.
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

In my jurisdiction, and actually all of Florida, permanent power is not permitted to be installed in a tree house.

We are permitted to supply a GFCI protected receptacle at the ground and use and extension cord to temporarily feed cord-and-plug equipment.
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

Bryan,

I know this is probably not something you see in Florida :) ...
but how would you feel about this situation??

:D
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

I'm not sure, What is all that white stuff?
Bryan,

LOL, As a Floridian I figured you might not be familiar with this Building Material ...

:D
Bill

[ June 04, 2004, 03:12 PM: Message edited by: bill addiss ]
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

It's considered temporary, set it up in the winter and remove it in the late spring. :D
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

My view on this.First a 400 sq ft room is a bit large to call just a tree house.I am seeing this as a detached living area.Yes gfci.Will kid's be sleeping in this ? might need smoke and afci.I know of no nec code saying we can not wire a tree.I think a picture would be needed.Does it have windows ? is it enclosed from rain ? if so i would call it living space at the min. and want wall switch and receptacles to code 2 ft ,6 ft,12 ft.Did it get a permit ?
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

My thoughts on this....don't touch it with a ten foot pole. I think it has lawsuit written all over it. Thats just me though.

I pray to God I never have to inspect one, because I wouldn't where to begin.
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

There might be a bigger problem, is there a sign on the entrance that says "No Grils Aloweded"

Could possibly be a discrimination suit on the horizon. :D

Roger

[ June 04, 2004, 07:20 PM: Message edited by: roger ]
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

the structure needs a permit if it not an exempt item, 120 sq. ft. or less. tree needs engineering stamp, and if strucure in tree is not prescriptive framing, then engineering as well. No electric permit until structure is legal, stamped plans with engineering, zoning approval for separate dwelling on same property.

not just imho, most likely if legal.

paul
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

Other than GFCI protection since outdoors.There is no kitchen IE: cooking,Bathroom IE:sanitary,sleeping areas IE:bedrooms.So it`s not a dwelling !!! It`s a tree house and since trees can be lit so can it.I wouldn`t put receptacles in it.Kids and electricity OWWWWWWWCH.
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

First wiring project I ever did was when I was about 13. A buddy and I built the taj majal of local treehouse in the area.#3 stories. Swiped a guys form lumber to build it . Took a circuit from his dads garage located about 20 feet away and ran it out under the eaves and draped it over to the 1st floor.( our "service drop"). put a receptacle in each level and one porcelain lite fixture in each level. Went to an elementary school reunion at this house last summer and the tree house still exists.Kinda rotted out but believe it or not the wire still dangles from the first floor. It was cut off fromm thew house ages ago.12 of us who attended elementary school form the first grade thru hi school got together. We all started school in the 1st grade in 1950 so to still have this many people around is quite a feat in itself. Couldnt lure any of the women up to the treehouse like old times tho!!!!
 
Re: What is the code for a tree house?

3-way switching between floors?= extention cord plug at bottom of ladder and another at top.

fire egress route?= parachute or grab on to the extention cord and hope it hold's

railing on stairs?= tree limbs

ground rod?= tree in ground

service disconnect?= the same plug at bottom of ladder.
:D :D :D :D :p

[ June 05, 2004, 12:18 AM: Message edited by: hurk27 ]
 
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