Understanding IBC Section 3115: Code Requirements for Shipping Container Homes

Repurposing shipping containers into safe, code-compliant homes requires more than creativity—it demands structural expertise, a deep understanding of code, and precise engineering. At Oasis Engineering, we specialize in helping homeowners and developers navigate the critical provisions of the International Building Code (IBC), especially Section 3115.

In this article, we’ll break down the real-world requirements of IBC Section 3115, especially as they apply to single-family residential projects, like a shipping container home. Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or architect, here’s what you need to know to design, permit, and build it right.

🔍 What is Section 3115?

Section 3115 of the IBC was created to fill a critical gap in the code: how to properly repurpose intermodal shipping containers for use as buildings or structures. These containers are strong and modular by design—but turning them into livable spaces requires careful attention to structural integrity, material verification, and safety features.

📋 Key Requirements for Residential Projects

1. General Applicability (3115.1)

If you’re turning a shipping container into any part of a building—whether a standalone home or an ADU—you must comply with Section 3115 and related chapters of the IBC. This applies even to small single-unit homes. Local code officials will look to this section when evaluating plans.

2. Construction Documents (3115.2)

You need engineering drawings that prove:

• The size and shape of the container
• The steel frame and floor materials
• How you’ll anchor it, modify it, and ensure stability

Without proper documentation, your permit will likely be delayed or denied.

At Oasis Engineering, we provide engineered plans and calculations tailored for IBC Section 3115, ready for submission.

3. Container Identification and Data Plate (3115.3)

Each container must include its ISO 6346 data plate with:

• Manufacturer ID
• Date of Manufacture
• Safety Approval Number
• Max Load Specs
• Transverse Racking Data

You’ll also need to verify this information via an approved agency. This data plate proves the container’s original structural rating—and yes, officials will ask for it. In some cases, you can remove the plate, but only with written approval from your building department.

4. Wood Floor Protection (3115.4)

Many containers have treated plywood flooring, but you still must show protection against:

• Decay
• Termites

This means sealing, replacing, or overlaying floors with proper materials per Section 2304.12.1.1.

5. Under-Floor Ventilation (3115.5)

If your container is raised above ground (common in flood or slabless areas), you must ventilate the underfloor space according to Section 1202.4. This reduces moisture and prevents wood rot.

6. Roof Assemblies (3115.6)

Container roofs must comply with Chapter 15 for weatherproofing, insulation, and slope.

✅ Exception: A single-unit, standalone container not connected or stacked doesn’t have to meet all conventional roof requirements. Still, engineered roofing is smart for durability and compliance.

7. Joints and Voids (3115.7)

If your design includes cut-outs or stacking, you’ll need to fireproof voids at rated assemblies per Section 715. For single units, this is rarely triggered—but it’s critical if you combine containers.

🏗️ Structural Requirements for Container Homes

8. Structural Compliance (3115.8)

Your container must meet:

• ISO 1496-1 container standards
• IBC Chapter 16 structural requirements

This includes wind, seismic, snow, and other environmental loads.

9. Foundations and Anchorage (3115.8.1 – 3115.8.1.1)

Every container home must be anchored to a foundation designed per IBC Chapters 16–23. Whether it’s:

• Concrete piers
• Slab-on-grade
• Helical piers

…you need engineered calculations and a continuous load path from roof to earth.

10. Welding and Modifications (3115.8.2)

All new welds or structural changes must match or exceed the strength of the original container.

Oasis Tip: Reinforcing around door/window cutouts is not just best practice—it’s required. Never notch corner posts or remove roof framing without engineer sign-off.

✅ Simplified Design Path for Single-Unit Homes (3115.8.5)

Good news: If your project is a standalone, single-unit container, you can use the simplified structural design method, which assumes:

• R = 2, Ω₀ = 2.5, Cd = 2
• Max height = 9.5 ft
• Standard boundary and framing conditions

This approach cuts red tape but still requires precise documentation and logic behind any wall openings or reinforcements.

Opening Rules:

• Openings can’t exceed 50% of any wall
• Wall sections under 4 ft don’t count toward lateral resistance
• You must have proper boundary elements
• Framing must match or exceed removed steel

And yes—weld shut any doors that you’re using structurally, especially on end walls.

🧠 Why This All Matters

Most shipping containers were designed for cargo—not hurricanes, earthquakes, or long-term habitation. Section 3115 exists to ensure that a structure that “looks strong” actually performs safely under code-defined loads.

Whether you’re in Arizona, Florida, or Texas —every AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) wants assurance that your container home isn’t just creative… it’s compliant.

🏡 Work with the Experts in Shipping Container Home Engineering

At Oasis Engineering, we’ve reviewed, designed, and certified dozens of container-based projects across multiple states. We don’t just understand Section 3115—we use it daily to bring projects from concept to permit with clarity and confidence.

✅ Stamped Engineering Plans
✅ IBC / IRC Code Compliance
✅ Modular and Site-Built Approaches
✅ Customized for Your Local Conditions

📞 Ready to Build Your Container Home?

Contact us today to get started with a code-compliant structural plan for your container home—whether you’re DIY-ing, working with a GC, or just sketching your first dream.