NATIONAL BUILDING CODE

RULE III - PERMITS AND INSPECTION

SECTION 301. Building Permits 1. General Rule: Permit Required

• Law: No person, firm, corporation, or government agency can construct, alter, repair, convert, use,
occupy, move, demolish, or add to a building/structure without a building permit.
• Form used: NBC Form B-01.
• Authority: Building Official of the locality where the project is located.
Key Exam Point:
• Purpose: Ensures safety, compliance with building code, zoning, and public welfare.
• RE relevance: You must verify that all projects have proper permits before sale or occupancy.

2. Supplementary Permits
These are additional permits needed for specialized work. There are two types:
a. Ancillary Permits
• Must be submitted with the building permit application.
• Building permit is invalid without them.
• Signed and sealed by relevant professionals.
• Types include:
1. Architectural Permit – design, floor plans, aesthetics
2. Civil/Structural Permit – foundation, structural integrity
3. Electrical Permit – wiring, electrical safety
4. Mechanical Permit – elevators, air conditioning, ventilation
5. Sanitary Permit – waste management, plumbing sanitation
6. Plumbing Permit – water supply, piping
7. Electronics Permit – communication systems, CCTV
b. Accessory Permits
• For special structures or activities outside the main building:
o Bank vaults, swimming pools, towers, smokestacks, industrial kilns, tombs, mausoleums, kiosks,
scaffolding, signage, etc.
• Issued before or during the processing of the main building permit.
• Have expiry periods and must be signed by the owner/applicant and relevant professionals.
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3. Exemptions from Building Permits
Certain minor constructions or repairs do not require a permit IF they comply with the code:

a. Minor Constructions (Detached & Private Use)

1. Sheds, outhouses, greenhouses, aviaries, playhouses ≤ 6 m²
2. Open terraces or patios ≤ 20 m²
3. Window grilles installation
4. Garden pools ≤ 500 mm deep
5. Garden walls (≤ 1.2 m), footpaths, residential walkways, driveways
b. Repair Works (Non-structural)
1. Roofing sheets or tiles replacement
2. Non-load-bearing partition walls
3. Interior portions of a house (no alteration/addition)
4. Doors and windows
5. Flooring
6. Perimeter fences/walls
7. Plumbing fixtures replacement (for single detached houses or duplexes)

SECTION 302. Application for 1. Filing the Application

Permits • Anyone seeking a building permit (and ancillary/accessory permits) must file the prescribed forms (NBC
Form B-01) with the Office of the Building Official (OBO).
• Ancillary/accessory permits are submitted together with the main building permit.
Key RE Tip: The permit application cannot proceed without proper forms and supporting documents.

2. Required Documents
a. If applicant is the lot owner
• Certified true copy of OCT/TCT (Title)
• Tax Declaration
• Current Real Property Tax Receipt
b. If applicant is NOT the lot owner
• All the above, plus notarized copy of Contract of Lease or Deed of Sale
Exam Point: Know that ownership verification is mandatory.
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3. Professional Plans Required
• Five (5) sets of all plans, signed and sealed by licensed professionals:
Discipline Professional
Lot Survey Geodetic Engineer
Architectural Architect (or Interior Designer for interiors)
Civil/Structural Civil Engineer
Electrical Professional Electrical Engineer
Mechanical Professional Mechanical Engineer
Sanitary Sanitary Engineer
Plumbing Master Plumber
Electronics Electronics Engineer
Tip: These ensure safety, functionality, and code compliance.

4. Architectural Documents
• Vicinity/Location Map – within 2 km for commercial/industrial; 0.5 km for residential
• Site Development Plan – lot boundaries, orientation, roads, driveways, existing structures
• Perspective / Floor Plans / Elevations / Sections / Reflected Ceiling Plans – show design, materials, finishes,
doors/windows, partitions, furniture, and functional spaces
• Schedules – doors, windows, finishes
• Accessibility Design – ramps, lifts, corridors, comfort rooms, signs, reserved parking
• Fire Safety Documents – evacuation routes, fire exits, extinguishers, alarms, fire-resistive materials
• Other Major Architectural Elements
Exam Tip: RE exam may ask: What architectural plans must accompany a building permit? → Vicinity map, site
plan, floor plans, elevations, sections, schedules, accessibility, and fire safety documents.

5. Civil/Structural Documents
• Site Development Plan – technical details for non-architectural structures (tanks, fences, silos, etc.)
• Structural Plans – foundation, floor/roof framing, deep wells, water reservoirs
• Structural Analysis & Design – required for all buildings except single detached ≤ 20 m²
• Boring & Load Tests – for buildings ≥3 stories or in geologically risky areas
• Seismic Analysis – mandatory for all buildings in seismic zones
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6. Electrical Documents
• Plans and specifications including layout, symbols, load schedules, one-line diagrams, transformers,
generators, and design analysis

7. Mechanical Documents
• Location and layout of machinery, ducts, equipment, boilers, elevators, fire systems
• Scale: mostly 1:100 (general layout) and 1:50 (details)
• Mechanical engineer signs for machinery above 14.9 kW; exceptions apply

8. Sanitary Documents
• Water, sewage, drainage, malaria control, pest control systems
• Plans, layouts, design analysis, cost estimates

9. Plumbing Documents
• Hot/cold water supply, drainage, vent systems, storm/sewer systems
• Plans, layouts, isometric diagrams, design analysis, cost estimates

10. Electronics Documents

• Telecom, broadcasting, IT, alarm systems, security, automation
• Layouts, diagrams, specifications, design analysis, cost estimates

11. Geodetic Documents

• Lot Survey Plans including: vicinity map, lot plan, relocation plan/report, line & grade, detailed topography

12. Clearances from Other Agencies

• Mandatory: Locational clearance from City/Municipal Zoning Office
• Other clearances (if needed) from agencies like:
o DPWH, ATO, HLURB/DHSUD, LGU, DOT, DENR, DOTC, DILG, PPA, DepEd, DOH, PHIVOLCS,
LLDA, MWSS, NWRB, DAR, DA, DOLE, NHA, NCWDP
Exam Tip: Know that multi-agency clearance may be required depending on building type or location.
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SECTION 303. Processing of Step 1 – Building Permit Application
Building Permits Process:
1. Submission – Applicant files complete plans, specifications, and other required documents to the Office of the
Building Official (OBO).
2. Verification by OBO:
o Confirms compliance with land use zoning (city/municipality ordinance).
o If a development permit was already issued by HLURB or Sangguniang Bayan/Panglungsod, locational
clearance is not needed.
o Ensures required clearances from other agencies are secured.
3. Existing Buildings – If the project involves alterations, additions, or repairs of existing structures:
o Submit the most recent Certificate of Occupancy.
o Locational clearance is not required in this case.
Key Exam Tip:
• OBO is the first gatekeeper.
• Know that development permits can exempt locational clearance.

Step 2 – Line and Grade Verification

Handled by: Line and Grade Section/Unit of OBO
Tasks:
1. Verify lot plan vs. Torrens Title/OCT/TCT.
2. Check setbacks, easements, and grades in relation to streets, roads, utilities, or public infrastructure.
3. Confirm access to at least one street/alley.
Special Note:
• Written clearance from DPWH is required if road widening, public utilities, or infrastructure affect the lot.
Exam Tip:
• Line and grade checks ensure proper siting, access, and compliance with zoning/development plans.
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Step 3 – Architectural Evaluation
Handled by: Architectural Section/Unit
Evaluates compliance for:
• Construction type (Type I–V, fire resistive vs. non-fire resistive)
• Fire zones & resistive regulations
• Building projections over streets
• Access roads, alleys, parking, loading/unloading areas
• Interior design & architectural finishes
• Classification by use/occupancy
• Maximum height limits
• Corner buildings with chaflans
• Occupant load
• Glazing (windows/openings)
• Accessibility features (ramps, lifts, corridors)
• Light & ventilation requirements
• Construction near aerodromes
• Buildings/ancillary structures in cemeteries or memorial parks
Exam Tip:
• Questions may ask: “Which section evaluates occupant load, height, and accessibility?” → Architectural Unit

Step 4 – Civil/Structural Evaluation

Handled by: Civil/Structural Section/Unit
Evaluates:
• General design and structural integrity
• Excavations, foundations, retaining walls
• Prefabricated construction compliance
• Construction safety during building/demolition
• Abatement/demolition of unsafe buildings
• Use of plastics, signs, and non-structural elements
Exam Tip:
• Structural safety & foundation compliance are the responsibility of Civil/Structural engineers.
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Step 5 – Electrical Evaluation
Handled by: Electrical Section/Unit
Checks compliance with:
• Electrical regulations (wiring, circuits, load capacity, equipment safety)

Step 6 – Mechanical Evaluation

Handled by: Mechanical Section/Unit
Checks compliance with:
• Mechanical equipment, elevators, air-conditioning, pressure vessels, fire suppression systems, HVAC, machinery
foundations

Step 7 – Sanitary Evaluation

Handled by: Sanitary Section/Unit
Checks compliance with:
• Sanitary Engineering Law (RA 1364) – water, sewage, drainage, pest control, pollution control

Step 8 – Plumbing Evaluation

Handled by: Plumbing Section/Unit
Checks compliance with:
• Plumbing Law (RA 1378) – hot/cold water, fixtures, sewerage, storm drainage

Step 9 – Electronics Evaluation

Handled by: Electronics Section/Unit
Checks compliance with:
• Telecommunications, broadcasting, IT systems, security/alarm, automation, building management systems

Step 10 – Fire Safety Requirements

Handled by: City/Municipal Fire Marshal (C/MFM), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)
Process:
1. One set of plans is forwarded to C/MFM for review.
2. C/MFM submits recommendations within 5 working days.
3. If C/MFM fails to act, the plans are considered compliant with the Fire Code.
4. If non-compliant, C/MFM must state reasons in writing.
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SECTION 304. Issuance of 1. Issuance of Permit
Building Permit • Timeline: Building Official must issue the permit within 15 days after submission of complete documents and
payment of fees.
• Partial Permit: Can be issued for a part of a building if plans do not cover the entire structure.
• Ground Preparation/Excavation Permit: Can be issued even while the main permit is being processed.

2. Excavation Requirements
• Excavations >50 m³ or >2 m depth:
o Cash bond required: ₱50,000 for first 50 m³ + ₱300 for each additional m³.
o Excavation cannot exceed 100 m³ or 3 m depth, and cannot be left idle >120 days.
o If idle or bond insufficient:
▪ Government may use bond to backfill.
▪ Additional cost charged to owner/permittee.
▪ Legal action initiated if owner refuses backfilling.
Exam Tip: Know that cash bond is required for deep/large excavations.

3. Terms & Conditions of Building Permit

a. Professional Liability
• Architect/Engineer who drew the plans: liable for 15 years if building collapses due to defects in plans/specs
or ground.
• Architect/Engineer who supervises construction + contractor: liable if building collapses due to poor
construction or inferior materials.

b. Ancillary & Accessory Permits

• Permit must be accompanied by all applicable ancillary/accessory permits.
• All plans signed & sealed by corresponding professionals.

c. Compliance Requirements
1. National Building Code & IRR compliance is mandatory.
2. Relocation Survey: Conducted by licensed Geodetic Engineer before construction.
3. Notification to neighbors: Must notify adjoining property owners 10 days before excavation and show
protection measures.
4. Daily Construction Logbook: Supervising Architect/Civil Engineer keeps a daily record of progress, tests,
weather, and other relevant data.
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5. Upon Completion:
o Submit logbook, as-built plans, and Certificate of Completion.
o Certificate confirms construction conforms to Code, IRR, and approved plans/specs.
6. Changes/Modifications: Must be submitted to OBO and an amendatory permit issued before
implementation.

d. Certificate of Occupancy
• No use/occupancy until CO is issued by Building Official.
• Partial CO: Can be issued for portion(s) of building prior to full completion.

e. Clearances
• Building permit does not exempt owner from securing other government clearances.

f. Contractor Requirements
• Construction must be performed by a licensed and registered contractor per Contractor’s License Law (RA
4566).

g. Notice of Construction
• Must be submitted to OBO before construction begins.

h. Building Permit Sign

• Must be posted on-site during construction.
• Sign must comply with prescribed dimensions and information (e.g., permit number, owner, contractor,
architect/engineer).
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SECTION 305. Validity of 1. Issuance of a Building Permit is NOT absolute authority
Building Permits The issuance of a building permit does not give the permittee the right to violate or disregard any provision of the
National Building Code or its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR).
Key idea:
A building permit is a conditional authority, not a blanket approval.
➡ Even if a permit is already issued:
• The owner
• Contractor
• Architect/Engineer
must still comply with all applicable laws, codes, and regulations.

2. Defective plans do NOT legalize violations

If a building permit was issued based on approved plans and specifications, but these plans are later found to be
defective, the Building Official:
✔ May require corrections in the plans and specifications
✔ May stop or prevent construction work
✔ May order suspension of construction if violations exist
Important exam point:
Approval of plans does not excuse errors, omissions, or violations later discovered.
➡ The Building Official is NOT barred from taking action just because a permit was already issued.

3. Grounds for expiration of a Building Permit

A building permit automatically expires and becomes null and void under the following conditions:

a. non-commencement of construction
If the building or authorized work does not start within one (1) year from the date of issuance of the building
permit.
Commencement means actual construction, not merely preparation.
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b. Suspension or abandonment of work
If construction:
• Is suspended, or
• Is abandoned,
for a continuous period of 120 days after it has started.
Exam trap:
Even if construction already began, prolonged stoppage can still invalidate the permit.

SECTION 306. Non-issuance, Authority of the Building Official

Suspension or Revocation of Under the National Building Code, the Building Official is vested with the authority to order or cause the non-issuance,
Building Permits suspension, or revocation of a building permit whenever violations or defects are present, in order to protect public
safety, health, and welfare.

Grounds for Non-Issuance, Suspension, or Revocation

The Building Official may exercise this authority on any or all of the following grounds:

1. Errors found in the plans and specifications

If the submitted or approved plans and specifications contain:
• Technical errors
• Design defects
• Inconsistencies with the Code or referral codes
Explanation:
Even if a permit has already been issued, the discovery of errors justifies suspension or revocation to prevent unsafe or
non-compliant construction.
➡ Exam tip:
Plan approval is conditional, not final immunity from future findings.
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2. Incorrect or inaccurate data or information supplied
This includes:
• False statements
• Misrepresentation of facts
• Incorrect technical data (e.g., lot area, setbacks, occupancy type, floor area, zoning data)
Explanation:
Permits are issued based on the truthfulness of submitted information. Any inaccurate data—intentional or
not—invalidates the basis of approval.
➡ Board favorite:
Misrepresentation = valid ground for revocation.

3. Non-compliance with the provisions of the Code, rules, or regulations

If the actual construction or proposed work:
• Violates PD 1096
• Violates the IRR
• Violates referral codes (Fire Code, Structural Code, etc.)
Explanation:
Compliance must exist before, during, and after construction. Any deviation authorizes the Building Official to
act.

SECTION 307. Appeals What it means:

• If a building permit is denied, suspended, or revoked, the:
o Applicant / permittee has 15 days from receipt of notice to appeal to the Secretary (usually the DPWH
Secretary).
• The Secretary must decide within 15 days from receipt of the appeal.
• The Secretary’s decision is final,
except it may still be reviewed by the Office of the President.
Exam focus:
• Appeal period: 15 days
• Decision period: 15 days
• Finality: subject only to OP review
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SECTION 308 – Inspection and Key rules:
Supervision of Work 1. The building owner must hire a:
o Licensed Architect or Civil Engineer
o For full-time inspection and supervision of construction.
2. The supervising professional:
o May or may not be the same person who designed the building.
3. Even if different, the designing architect/engineer may still inspect the work.
4. A construction logbook must be kept at the jobsite at all times, recording:
o Progress of work
o Tests conducted
o Weather conditions
o Other relevant data
5. After completion:
o The architect/engineer submits:
▪ Signed and sealed logbook
▪ Certificate of Completion
o Certifying compliance with:
▪ The Building Code
▪ Approved plans and specifications
Exam focus:
• Only licensed Architect or Civil Engineer
• Logbook is mandatory
• Certificate of Completion is required before occupancy
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SECTION 309 – Certificate of 1. Requirements for Application
Occupancy (CO) To apply for a Certificate of Occupancy, the owner must submit to the Office of the Building Official (OBO):
• Application for CO
• Notarized Certificate of Completion
• Construction logbook
• As-built plans and specifications
• Building Inspection Sheet
• All documents must be:
o Signed by the contractor
o Signed and sealed by the supervising Architect or Civil Engineer
As-built plans must reflect the structure as actually constructed, including all changes.

2. Fire Safety Requirement

• OBO requests final inspection from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
• BFP must issue a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) within 5 working days.
• If BFP does not act within the period:
o The Building Official may still issue the CO
o Provided fire safety requirements are complied with later (per Fire Code – PD 1185)

3. Final Inspection by OBO

• OBO conducts:
o Final inspection
o Verification of:
▪ Certificate of Completion
▪ Logbook
▪ Plans (original and as-built)
▪ Inspection sheets

4. Issuance of Certificate of Occupancy

• OBO prepares:
o Fees
o Order of payment
• After payment:
o Certificate of Occupancy is issued
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Special cases:
a. Partial Certificate of Occupancy
• Allowed for completed portions of a building
• Must not pose danger to:
o Occupants
o Neighbors
o Public
b. New Certificate of Occupancy
• Required if:
o There is a change in use or occupancy
• Allowed only if the new use complies with the Code and IRR

RULE IV - TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION

SECTION 401. Types of This section classifies buildings according to the materials used and their resistance to fire. The classification affects:
Construction • Fire safety requirements
• Building height and area limits
• Insurance and valuation
• Occupancy and use
__
TYPE I – Wood Construction
• Made mostly of combustible materials
• Examples:
o Wood framing
o Light materials (nipa, bamboo, plywood)
Least fire-resistive
Exam cue: Mostly combustible materials
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TYPE II – Wood with Protective Fire-Resistive Materials
(EXT: ONE-HOUR FIRE RESISTIVE RATING)
(INT: ONE-HOUR FIRE-RESTISTING RATING)
• Wood construction but protected by fire-resistive coverings
• Examples:
o Wooden framing with gypsum board
o Fire-retardant treatments
Safer than Type I, but still largely wood

TYPE III – Masonry and Wood

(EXT: ONE-HOUR FIRE RESISTIVE RATING)
(INT: ONE-HOUR FIRE-RESTISTING RATING)
• Exterior walls:
o Non-combustible (concrete, masonry)
• Interior parts:
o May include wood
Common in low-rise residential and commercial buildings

TYPE IV – Fire-Resistive Construction

(EXT: FOUR-HOURS FIRE RESISTIVE RATING)
(INT: ONE-HOUR FIRE-RESTISTING RATING)
• Structural elements are:
o Reinforced concrete
o Steel with fireproofing
• Designed to resist fire for a specific duration
Typical for mid-rise buildings
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TYPE V – Fire-Resistive (High-Rise / Incombustible)
(EXT: FOUR-HOURS FIRE RESISTIVE RATING)
(INT: THREE-HOUR FIRE-RESTISTING RATING for bearing walls, and ONE HOUR RESISTIVE RATING for
vertical openings, floors, and roofs))

• Entire structure made of:

o Incombustible materials
o Highly fire-resistive
• Examples:
o High-rise condominiums
o Office towers
Highest fire resistance

SECTION 403. Requirements on

Type of Construction Component Type II–III Type IV Type V
Exterior walls 1 hr 4 hrs 4 hrs
Structural frame 1 hr 2 hrs 3 hrs
Interior bearing walls 1 hr 1 hr 3 hrs
Doors & windows 1 hr (all types)

2. Interior Wall and Ceiling Finishes

This deals with how fast materials burn and how dangerous the smoke is.
a. Flame-Spread & Smoke Density
• Interior finishes must be tested using the “Tunnel Test”
• Requirements:
o Flame spread must be within acceptable limits
o Smoke density not greater than burning untreated wood
o Toxicity not worse than untreated wood
Includes:
• Wall paneling
• Wainscoting
• Decorative finishes, Acoustical materials, Door & window frames and trims, and Surface insulation
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b. Exempted Materials
Flame-spread rules do NOT apply to:
• Door and window frames & trims
• Materials less than 1.00 mm thick
o Cemented to wall or ceiling surfaces
Thin finishes = exempt

c. Flame-Retardant Treatment
• Materials must be treated with a flame-retardant
• Flame-spread rating:
o 50 or less (Tunnel Test standard)
Remember “50 or less” — very exam-friendly number

RULE VII - CLASSIFICATION AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS OF ALL BUILDINGS BY USE OR OCCUPANCY
SECTION 701. Occupancy EXAM GOLDEN RULE
Classified If unsure, classify based on LIFE & FIRE HAZARD and the use it MOST RESEMBLES
__ This line is directly from the IRR — expect it verbatim in exams.
BOARD EXAM MEMORY __
HACK GROUP A – Residential Dwellings
• A–B: Residential Division 1 (Single-family / Low risk)
• C: Education • Single-family houses
• D: Institutional • Staff housing (school/company)
• E: Business • Churches & rectories
• F: Industrial • Community & social centers
• G: Hazardous • Parks, playgrounds
• H–I: Assembly • Clubhouses & recreational facilities
• J: Accessory Not operated primarily for gain
Key idea: Low density, non-commercial
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Division 2 (Small-scale institutional / mixed)
• Duplexes, townhouses (≤10 persons)
• School dorms (on campus)
• Convents, monasteries
• Military/police barracks
• Pre-school to high school (≤16 classrooms)
• Clinics (outpatient, lying-in, diagnostic)
• Libraries, museums
• Steam/dry cleaning outlets
• Party needs rental shops
Key idea: Still residential but with limited public use

GROUP B – Residential, Hotels & Apartments

• Boarding/lodging houses
• Hotels
• Apartment buildings
• Row houses
• Convents & monasteries
• Occupant load: MORE THAN 10 persons
Exam trigger: “More than 10 occupants = Group B”

GROUP C – Education & Recreation

• Schools
• Day-care centers
• Instructional or recreational buildings
• NOT included in Group A, H, or I
Distinction: Group C = education-focused assemblies
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GROUP D – Institutional (Restricted Movement)
Division 1
• Mental hospitals
• Jails, prisons, reformatories
Division 2
• Hospitals
• Nursing homes (non-ambulatory)
• Nurseries (below kindergarten age)
• More than 5 persons
Division 3
• Nursing homes (ambulatory)
• Homes for children (kindergarten and above)
• More than 5 persons
Key phrase: Personal liberty is restrained

GROUP E – Business & Mercantile

Division 1
• Gasoline stations
• Storage garages
• Boat storage
• No welding / no open flame
Division 2
• Retail & wholesale stores
• Offices
• Restaurants (<100 occupants)
• Printing plants
• Police & fire stations
• Factories using non-flammable materials
Division 3
• Aircraft hangars
• Open parking garages (no repair work)
Exam hint: Offices and stores = Group E, not Group F
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GROUP F – Industrial
• Ice plants
• Power plants
• Pumping plants
• Cold storage
• Creameries
• Factories using incombustible & non-explosive materials
Difference from Group E:
Group F = production & processing

GROUP G – Storage & Hazardous

Division 1
• Highly flammable & hazardous materials
Division 2
• Flammable materials
• Paint shops (bulk handling)
• Dry cleaning plants (flammable liquids)
Division 3
• Woodworking shops
• Planning mills
• Warehouses for highly combustible materials
Division 4
• Repair garages
Division 5
• Aircraft repair hangars
Memory cue: If it can explode or burn fast → Group G
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GROUP H – Assembly (Below 1000 occupants)
Division 1
• With stage
• <1000 occupants
Division 2
• No stage
• ≥300 occupants
Division 3
• No stage
• <300 occupants
Division 4
• Stadia
• Amusement park structures
• Reviewing stands
Stage + crowd size = critical

GROUP I – Assembly (1000 or MORE occupants)

• Assembly building
• With stage
• Occupant load ≥1000
Very common board question

GROUP J – Accessory Occupancies

Division 1
• Agricultural structures
Division 2
• Private garages
• Carports
• Fences >1.80 meters
• Tanks
• Swimming pools
• Towers
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Division 3
• Courts (tennis, basketball, etc.)
• Stages & platforms
• Tombs, mausoleums
• Aviaries, aquariums
• Zoo structures
• Vaults
Accessory = incidental to main building

SECTION 705. Allowable Floor CORE FORMULA (MEMORIZE THIS)

Areas TGFA = BHL (number of storeys) × PSO (%) × Total Lot Area (TLA)
Subject to reduction if it exceeds Allowable Maximum Volume of Building (AMVB)

TGFA – Total Gross Floor Area- Allowable Maximum

BHL- Building Height Limit
PSO – Percentage of Site Occupancy
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RESIDENTIAL – GROUP A-1

(WITHOUT FIREWALL)

Zoning Floors (BHL) PSO Range

R-1 3 floors 50%–70%
Basic R-2 3 floors 60%–70%
Max R-2 5 floors 60%–70%
Basic R-3 3 floors 70%
Max R-3 12 floors 80%
R-4 (Townhouse) 3 floors 80%
R-5 (Condo) 18 floors 80%

WITH FIREWALLS
FIREWALLS = HIGHER ALLOWABLE PSO

Zoning Floors PSO

R-1 Not allowed Not allowed
Basic R-2 3 up to 75%
Max R-2 5 up to 75%
R-3 3–12 80%
R-4 3 80%
R-5 18 80%
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COMMERCIAL – GROUPS B, C, E, H, I

Without Sprinklers / Firewalls

Zone Floors PSO
Com-1 5 75%–90%
Com-2 12 75%–90%
Com-3 30 75%–90%

With Sprinkler System + Firewalls

Zone Floors PSO
Com-1 5 up to 95%
Com-2 12 up to 95%
Com-3 30 up to 95%
SECTION 706. Allowable Floor CORE IDEA
Area Increases Floor area may be increased when a building has more open space exposure on two or more sides, subject to approval
of the Building Official.

SECTION 707. Maximum

Height of Buildings BUILDING HEIGHT LIMIT (BHL) BY TYPE OF USE OR OCCUPANCY

1. RESIDENTIAL BHL 2. COMMERCIAL BHL

R-1 (Single / Low Density) C-1
• 3 storeys • 3–5 storeys
• 10.00 meters • 10.00–15.00 m
Lowest residential height
C-2
R-2 (Low–Medium Density) • 6 storeys
• Basic: 3 storeys / 10.00 m • 18.00 m
• Maximum: 5 storeys / 15.00 m
C-3
R-3 (Medium–High Density) • 16–60 storeys
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• Basic: 3 storeys / 10.00 m • 48.00–180.00 m
• Maximum: 12 storeys / 36.00 m Highest standard BHL overall
Exam trigger: R-3 allows mid-rise Subject to airport & CAAP restrictions

R-4 (Townhouses – Individual Lots)

• 3 storeys
• 10.00 meters

R-5 (Condominiums)
• 12–18 storeys
• 36.00–54.00 meters

KEY EXAM FACT

Tallest residential buildings = R-5

3. INDUSTRIAL BHL 4. INSTITUTIONAL

(Always subject to the BHL of the major zone) • 15.00 meters
Industrial Type Max Height • Or must follow the major zone BHL
Examples: hospitals, schools, correctional facilities
I-1 15.00 m
I-2 21.00 m 5. CULTURAL
I-3 27.00 m • 30.00 meters
• Or follow the major zone BHL
Cannot exceed the zone’s approved BHL
Examples: museums, theaters, cultural centers

6. UTILITY / TRANSPORT / RROW / SERVICES

• 15.00 meters
• Must complement the major zone

7. PARKS & OPEN RECREATIONAL SPACES

• 15.00 meters
• Must complement surrounding zone
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8. AGRICULTURAL / AGRO-INDUSTRIAL /
TOURISM
• 15.00 meters
• Subject to major zone controls

9. PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD)

Very exam-relevant
Reclamation Area – Near Airport
• 3–15 storeys
• 10.00–45.00 m
• Subject to ATO/CAAP height limits

Reclamation Area (Not Near Airport)

• 3–30 storeys
• 10.00–30.00 m

Coastal Area
• 16–45 storeys
• 48.00–135.00 m

Inland Area – Near Airport

• 3–25 storeys
• 10.00–75.00 m
• With ATO/CAAP restrictions

Inland Area (Not Near Airport)

• 12–60 storeys
• 36.00–180.00 m

MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE BHL UNDER CODE

60 storeys / 180 meters
 NATIONAL BUILDING CODE
SECTION 708. Minimum 1. DWELLING LOCATION & LOT OCCUPANCY 6. FLOOR (LIVE LOAD)
Requirements for Group A • Corner lot: Max 90% occupancy • First floor: ≥ 200 kg/sq.m
Dwellings • Inside lot: Max 80% occupancy • Second floor: ≥ 150 kg/sq.m
__ • Setback: At least 2.00 meters from property line Exam favorite:
TOP NUMBERS TO • Subject to Easements of Light and View (Civil First floor carries more load than second floor
MEMORIZE (PRC CORE) Code)
• 90% / 80% – Lot Exam tip: 7. ROOF
occupancy Corner lots allow higher lot occupancy than inside lots • Minimum wind load:
• 2.00 m – Minimum o 120 kg/sq.m (vertical projection)
setback 2. LIGHT & VENTILATION Relevant for typhoon-prone PH conditions
• 250 mm / 600 mm – • Must comply with Sections 805–811 of the Code
Footing thickness & • Adequate natural light and airflow required 8. STAIRS
depth No exact numbers here—reference section is key • Minimum clear width: 750 mm
• 200 / 150 kg/sq.m – Floor • Maximum rise: 200 mm
live load 3. SANITATION • Minimum run: 200 mm
• 120 kg/sq.m – Roof wind • At least one sanitary toilet Stairs = triple-number question
load • Adequate:
• 750 mm / 200 mm / 200 o Washing facilities 9. ENTRANCE & EXIT
mm – Stair dimensions o Drainage facilities • At least:
__
Minimum = 1 toilet o One entrance
o One exit
4. FOUNDATION Safety & egress requirement
• Footings must:
o Support dwelling load 10. ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS
o Be at least 250 mm thick • Must comply with:
o Be at least 600 mm below ground surface o Philippine Electrical Code (PEC)
Frequently tested values
11. MECHANICAL REQUIREMENTS
5. POSTS (SUPORTALES) • Must comply with:
Key Rules o Philippine Mechanical Engineering Code
• Must follow Table VII.5
• Anchored to footing with:
o Straps & Bolts of adequate size
 NATIONAL BUILDING CODE
GUIDELINES ON EASEMENTS, VIEW CORRIDORS/SIGHT LINES, STREETS/ROAD RIGHT-OF-WAY (RROW), SIDEWALKS, ARCADES,
BASEMENTS, LOTS, AND PUBLIC BUILDINGS/STRUCTURES

Table VIII.G.2. Suggested Median and Lane Widths Within Alleys/Roadway/Carriageway by Min. RROW

Min Required
Total RROW / Alley Suggested Vehicle Median Width Lane Width
Road/Carriageway Width
Width (m) Speed (km/h) (m) (m)
(m)

2.00 – 2.10
3.00 – 6.00 2.00 – 4.00 1 – 15 None (one way or
each way)

2.40 – 2.80
6.10 – 20.00 4.81 – 13.40 16 – 30 None – 1.20
(each way)

20.10 – 40.00 13.50 – 26.80 31 – 60 1.20 – 4.50 3.00 – 3.30

40.10 – 60.00 26.90 – 40.00 61+ 1.50 – 5.00 3.50 – 3.80

60.00+ 40.00+ 61+ 1.50 – 5.50 3.80 – 4.00

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE
NATIONAL BUILDING CODE
 NATIONAL BUILDING CODE
RULE IX – SANITATION

Section Topic Key Requirements / Notes

- All buildings for human habitation must have: potable water, plumbing, wastewater system, storm drainage, pest &
901 General Requirements
vermin control, noise abatement, and other health measures.

1. Use municipal/city water if available. 2. Water must meet National Drinking Water Standards. 3. Deepwells must
902 Water Supply System follow Water Code (PD 1067). 4. Private subdivision/industrial water systems follow existing water laws. 5. Piping
must conform to Revised National Plumbing Code.

1. Connect to municipal sanitary sewer if available (follow DENR & Sanitation Code). 2. If no sewer: use septic
903 Wastewater Disposal System tank/Imhoff tank + absorption field or approved treatment plant. 3. All plumbing installations must comply with
Revised Plumbing Code.

1. Rainwater must not go to sanitary sewer. 2. Drain low areas adequately. 3. Drainage system must comply with
904 Storm Drainage System
Revised Plumbing Code.

1. Hollow/wood buildings must be rat-proof. 2. Garbage bins must be cleanable and pest-proof. 3. Dining areas
905 Pest & Vermin Control
without artificial ventilation must be screened.

1. Industrial noise abatement devices required; must meet DOLE & DENR standards. 2. Noise and vibration from
906 Noise Pollution Control
building operations must meet DENR emission limits.

907 Pipes Materials - All pipes must meet BPS / DTI standards.