It’s very common in the electrical trade to have differing opinions on rules in the electrical code. There are many grey areas in the code book that may require an official interpretation. The State of Oregon has a specific process that must be followed when an official code interpretation is needed.

Once an official interpretation of the code has been made, it can be used to ensure that the installation meets the intent of the code section in the State of Oregon.

The rules below can be found here: Chapter 918 Division 8

918-008-0085 Statewide Code Interpretation Process

(1) A petitioner may request a statewide code interpretation by providing the following information in writing or on division approved forms:

(a) A brief description of the facts and circumstances giving rise to the need for a statewide code interpretation; and

(b) The specialty code section at issue.

(2) Notwithstanding subsections (1)(a) and (b) of this rule, the division may elect to accept a substantially complete request for a statewide code interpretation if circumstances merit.

(3) After receipt and approval of a petitioner's request for interpretation, the division will process the request, reach a conclusion, and distribute the decision.

(4) Each quarter, the division will communicate to the appropriate advisory board its actions concerning statewide code interpretations.

918-008-0090 Site-Specific Interpretation Process

(1) A building official may request a site-specific interpretation by providing the following information in writing or on division approved forms:

(a) A brief description of the facts and circumstances giving rise to the need for a site-specific interpretation;

(b) The specialty code section at issue; and

(c) The physical address of the building site.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1)(a) through (c) of this rule, the division may elect to accept a substantially complete request for a site-specific interpretation if circumstances merit.

(3) After receipt and approval of a building official's request for interpretation, the division will process the request, reach a conclusion, and distribute the decision.

918-008-0110 Enforcement

All jurisdictions administering and enforcing the state building code must enforce statewide code interpretations and allow the use of alternate method rulings consistent with the original scope of the ruling. Failure to enforce statewide code interpretations or allow statewide alternate method rulings may subject building officials, plans examiners, and inspectors to revocation or suspension of certifications.