Code Interpretations for Current Code Cycle, Effective May 12, 2020

• None

Code Interpretations for Previous Code Cycle, Effective October 3, 2016

• Sleeping Quarters Children’s Overnight Camps
• 2015 Existing Building Code, Section 804.2.2
• 2015 International Building Code, Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings in R-2 Occupancies

Historic Code Interpretations

Building Code of New York State (BCNYS)

• What is the occupancy classification of a take-out food service establishment with a limited number of tables and chairs and what is the occupant load for the various spaces therein?
• Does the BCNYS Chapter 34, entitled “Existing Structures, ” section 3410.2.3, entitled “Additions,” require the addition to comply with the provisions of BCNYS section 903.2.1, and require the entire building to be provided with an automatic sprinkler system?
• Does the Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code allow these platforms to be accessible by the use of the portable ramps?
• If a second bathroom is provided, is it required to be “Type B” accessible? (Background: A “Type B” accessible dwelling unit in an R-2 occupancy is provided with one “Type A” accessible bathroom in accordance with BCNYS section 1107.6.2.2.1 and provided with maneuvering clearances at the bathroom door in accordance with BCNYS 1107.6.2.2.2.)
• Can the lavatory be placed within the required clear floor space for the water closet? (Background: An accessible single user toilet room is designed in accordance with BCNYS Chapter 11 and ICC ANSI A117.1 section 604.)

Fire Code of New York State (FCNYS)

• Is the occupant load of a room or space within a legally existing building constructed prior to January 1, 1984 limited by Section 1028.3 of the 2007 FCNYS?
• Does Section 903.2.10 of the 2010 Fire Code of New York State, entitled “Windowless stories in all occupancies,” apply to the specific areas and buildings identified in Sections 903.2.10.1 through 903.10.3, only if the story in which the area is located is windowless?

Residential Code of New York State (RCNYS)

• Is the attic access opening required to have clear floor space below? (Source Document: Residential Code of New York State)

Existing Building Code of New York State (EBNYS)

• A code enforcement official has asked the question: Does Section 704.2.2 of the 2010 Existing Building Code of New York State apply to all work areas that (1) include exits or corridors shared by more than one tenant OR (2) serve an occupant load greater than 30?