CODE
MECKLENBURG COUNTY
ENGINEERING & BUILDING
STANDARDS DEPARTMENT
INTERPRETATION
VOLUME:
2002 North Carolina Residential Code for One and Two-Family Dwellings
SUBJECT:
Foundation Vents
REVIEWED BY: Consistency Team
QUESTION:
Where should foundation vents be placed?
CODE REFERENCE:
Sections R408.1 and R408.2
ANSWER:
Foundation vents should be installed to eliminate dead air pockets. Vents should be placed at
each corner and spread out along the foundation walls equally on all sides. The ventilation
openings should equal the square footage prescribed by the code.
Exceptions:
• Ventilation openings may be vented to the interior of a building where warranted by climatic
conditions.
• The total area of ventilation may be reduced to 1/1500 under the floor area when an approved
6 mil vapor barrier material is used and when ventilation openings are installed within (3)
three feet from each corner of the building (required openings Section R408.1).
• Ventilation openings may be omitted when continuously operated mechanical ventilation is
provided and the ground is covered with an approved vapor barrier material.
Approved By ______________________________ Date: 07/01/02