Notching and Bored Holes at Exterior and Bearing Stud Walls

Exterior Walls and Bearing Partitions: Studs may not be notched more than 25% of their depth. Nonbearing Partitions: Studs may not be notched more than 40% of their depth. Boring: The diameter of bored holes in studs should not exceed 60% of the stud depth. Holes must be at least 5/8 inch (16 mm) away from the edge of the stud. Holes should not be located in the same section as a cut or notch. If a bored hole exceeds 40% of the stud depth in exterior walls or bearing partitions, the stud must be doubled, and no more than two consecutive doubled studs can be bored in this way. Exception: If stud shoes are installed following the manufacturer’s instructions, different drilling and notching practices may be allowed. These regulations ensure the structural integrity of the studs. For visual examples, see Figures R602.6(1) and R602.6(2).