Bill > H184

This bill aims to promote local sawmills in North Carolina by allowing the use of ungraded (dimension) lumber in the construction of one- and two-family dwellings and certain residential structures. The bill defines a "small mill" as a sawmill producing less than 1,000,000 board feet of lumber annually and establishes a framework for using ungraded lumber under specific conditions. These conditions include direct sales from the sawmill to the building owner, lumber that meets building code requirements (except for grade-stamping), and sawmill operators who have completed a state-approved lumber grading training program. The sawmill must provide a detailed certificate with the lumber, including information about wood species, quantity, and certification that the lumber meets building code standards. The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service will establish a lumber grading training program, and sawmill operators must register with the North Carolina Forest Service before selling ungraded lumber directly to building owners. Additionally, building permit applicants using ungraded lumber must submit specific documentation about the lumber's origin and characteristics. The Residential Code Council and Building Code Council are required to amend their codes to accommodate these provisions and develop both temporary and permanent rules within 180 days of the act's effective date.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H184