What are Factory Built Non-Residential Structures?
Factory Built Non-Residential (FBNR) Structures are Modular structures built to Commercial building codes adopted and amended in the Administrative Rules, 8 CCR 1302-14. These requirements are similar to those adopted for Modular Residential codes but with additional measures to protect against higher risk situations that may arise due to the nature of the use of the buildings. Since they are regulated differently, they do not follow the same rules as Factory Built (FB) Residential units. Please refer below for a summary of these requirements:
- Sales: The sale of FBNR structures do not require registration of the person or agency. These structures can be sold or leased for use in the State without prior registration unlike Residential units.
- Manufacturing:The manufacturing of these products requires the registration of the manufacturer prior to constructing any unit for Colorado. This only applies to any unit that is considered to be closed paneled and not meeting any exception in rule 2 of our administrative rules.
- Installation: The installation of these units do not require the inspection from the Division of Housing (DOH) or its approved agencies, with the exception of Commercial Multifamily Structures as defined in rule. It is encouraged that structures that are excluded from Multifamily units still have proper attachment and are tied down to an approved foundation system prior to occupying the structure. Please refer to local requirements on instillation of those units. Multifamily structures will receive an insignia that certifies the installation of the structure as a whole and will be conducted by the DOH or its approved agencies.
- Inspections: Construction of these structures are required to be inspected by the DOH or its approved agencies prior to certification of the units. This is all monitored through the Quality Assurance program and inspections by approved inspectors. At the end of construction, each unit will receive a construction certification by adhering a State insignia.
Where are these structures allowed?
FBNR structures, including Commercial Multifamily structures, are certified for the specific site location the structure is to be installed. This does not mean that it can not be moved elsewhere in Colorado. It can be installed in other locations as long as the location meets the same design criteria for items listed above on the quick guidance table. If there are differences in design, the structure must go through revisions to address those changes.
Quick Reference Guide to FBNR Requirements
- Construction: 8 CCR 1302-14
- Foundation: Permanent/Temporary
- Fire Suppression: Per Local
- Wild Fire Mitigation: Per Local
- Chassis: Depends on Design
- State Insignia: Yes
- Installation Insignia: No
Structures not defined in rule as a Multifamily structure, do not need to be inspected for the installation, therefore those structures do not receive an installation insignia and do not need a registered installer to install the structure. - Seller Registration: No
- Installer Registration: No
Structures not defined in rule as a Multifamily structure, do not need to be inspected for the installation, therefore those structures do not receive an installation insignia and do not need a registered installer to install the structure. - Manufacturer Registration: Yes
- Inspector Registration: Yes