Need reference, exhaust vent too close to the soffit vent


Hello Folks,
This exhaust vent from kitchen looks too close to the vented soffit, How would you guys report it?

Start with the basics, what’s being vented, and what do the manufacturer’s install requirements state?

Chapter 15 of IRC and FBC (Florida) indicate it should be at least 3’ from openings.

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Replace two pieces of vented soffit with two pieces of solid non vented soffit.,a good vinyl installer can easily pop them out.

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In my area, (Minnesota)…
it’s too cold 6 months of the year that any exhaust will simply freeze and fall to the ground…
and the other 6 months it too hot/humid to cook indoors, making the vent a non-issue!!
:wink:

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The screen is missing too.

I would note the lack of 3’ clearance to that door/operable window that Dave pointed out ( I don’t think it needs a screen since it has a flap on it) and move on. The crime there is a minor misdemeanor in my opinion.

I see this for dryer exhaust, but not the kitchen. In fact, I cannot find any kitchen clearance requirements. Could you please post the reference?

Here ya go Brian…
M1506.3 Exhaust openings.

Air exhaust openings shall terminate not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from property lines; 3 feet (914 mm) from operable and nonoperable openings into the building and 10 feet (3048 mm) from mechanical air intakes except where the opening is located 3 feet (914 mm) above the air intake. Openings shall comply with Sections R303.5.2 and R303.6.

Here’s the reference for the screen…
R303.6 Outside opening protection.

Air exhaust and intake openings that terminate outdoors shall be protected with corrosion-resistant screens, louvers or grilles having an opening size of not less than 1/4 inch (6 mm) and a maximum opening size of 1/2 inch (13 mm), in any dimension. Openings shall be protected against local weather conditions. Outdoor air exhaust and intake openings shall meet the provisions for exterior wall opening protectives in accordance with this code.

BTW these references are for my area (Florida), which are derived from the IRC.

Thanks for the information.

Keep in mind, the dryer exhaust section prohibits screens/louvers in section 1502. And range hoods are covered in 1503.1

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