HomeMy WebLinkAboutVARIANCE
... j commerce.wi.gov
'W i~~9J}~JJJ
Safety and Buildings
PO BOX 7162
MADISON WI 53707-7162
TDD #: (608) 264-8777
www.commerce.wi.gov/sb/
www.wisconsin.gov
Jim Doyle, Governor
Mary P. Burke, Secretary
June 24, 2005
CUST ill No.673 I 00
JAMES GROFF
HGM ARCHITECTURE INC
805 N MAIN ST
PO BOX 976
OSHKOSH WI 54903
ATTN: Buildings & Structures Inspector
BUILDING INSPECTION
CITY OF OSHKOSH
POB 1130
OSHKOSH WI 54902
APPROVAL OF PETITION FOR VARIANCE
SITE:
Appraisal Group One
1856 Omro Rd
City of Oshkosh
Lot: 4,
FOR: Petition for Variance
!BC 1003.3.3.3
The submittal described above has been reviewed for equivalency to applicable Wisconsin Administrative Codes and
compliance with Wisconsin Statutes. The submittal has been CONDITIONALLY APPROVED. The owner, as
defined in section 101.01(10), Wisconsin Stalntes, is responsible for compliance with all conditions of this petition
approval and other applicable code requirements. Plan submittal and approval to the department or its agent may be
necessary prior to construction undertaken per this petition.
Your Petition for Variance of the code section noted above has been reviewed.
The code section petitioned requires that the stair treads shall be a minimum of II-inches and the stair risers shaH
be a maximumof7-inches
The variance reqnested is to use the existing stairway which has riser dimensions of7 3/8 inches and tread
dimensions of 10 3/8 inches.
The intent of the code section petitioned is to provide stair riser and tread dimensions that provide safe, uniform,
universal means of egress for building occupants in every day use and emergency situations. An acceptable stair
grade and riser and tread dimension are required to prevent tripping and/or faHing on stairways. The petitioner
submitted the SB-9890 application form including five additional pages of supporting documents.
Reviewer's Comments:
I. The local fire department and municipal building inspection department recommend deuial.
2. This existing building was a single family home built in the 1960's that is currently being converted to a
commercial business, 'B' occupancy.
3. The existing stair has 7 3/8" risers and 103/8" treads. The treads are constructed of I 1116" thick hard oak
provided with a I" nosing with \1;' radius.
4. The risers win be painted a light color in contrast to the existing dark treads.
5. The owner proposes additional lighting for the stairway to meet the!BC 2000 edition egress illumination
requirements as currently adopted by the Department.
6. Stair handrails including extensions and 2nd floor guards win be provided to meet the !BC 2000 edition Chapter
10 requirements as currently adopted by the Department.
7. Owner proposes satin fmish varnish or carpet to provide a non-slip walking surface on the stair.
JAMES GROFF
Page 2
6/24/2005
8. Exit signs win be added to meet !BC 2000 edition requirements as currently adopted by the Department.
9. The owner states in the petition documents that the occupancy of the 2nd floor is limited to 4 people.
10. HistoricaHy riser and tread dimensions in model codes and the WI Commercial Building code have varied ITom
7 to 7 %" and ITom 9 \1;' to II" respectively.
11. The WI Commercial Building Code prior to 2002 permitted in s. 51.16(4)(a)2. thatfor a change of use in an
existing commercial building that existing stairs may remain in use if they were constructed in accordance with
the requirements of the commercial building code for the new use that were in effect at the time of original
construction. The WI Commercial Building Code in 1967 permitted stair riser and tread dimensions of? %"
and 9 \1;' respectively for an office building.
12. The 2000 edition of the International Building Code states in s. 1003.3.3.3 exception 6. that per s. 3402.4 an
alteration or the replacement of an existing stairway in an existing structure shaH not be required to comply with
the requirements of a new stairway where the existing space and construction win not aHow a reduction in pitch
or slope. It is noted that section 3402.4 was deleted ITom the WI Enrolled Commercial Building Code adopted
with an effective date of July I, 2002. A similar exception for existing stairways was provided in the previous
model building codes for example the 1999 BOCA National Building Code.
13. Given the difficulties or unfeasibility of reconstructing this existing stairway to meet current code requirements
and that there is no difference in the relative safety provided by the existing stair whether this building was originaHy
constructed as a commercial building versus a single family dweHing recommendation is for conditional approval.
Departmental Action: CONDITIONAL APPROVAL
Reviewer's Conditions of Approval:
AH of the petitioner's statements offact or intent included on the variance application form, any other documents
submitted to the Department, as wen as any other conditions of approval listed below, shaH be carried out. Any
recommended conditions of approval by the fire department and/or municipal building inspection department listed
above shaH also be carried out mtless otherwise stated below. This variance is specific to the subject petition and
cannot be used for any additional modifications.
The building and stairway shaH meet aH egress requirements of the current WI EnroHed Commercial Building
Code with the exception of s. 1003.3.3.3 riser and tread dimensions.
Carpeting shall not be provided continuous over the risers and treads of the stair ITom top to bottom as this
would negate the contrasting color of the treads and risers proposed above. If carpeting is provided on the stair
treads it shaH also be provided at the top and bottom landings so as not to create non-uuiform riser heights.
The stair treads shaH provide a non-slip walking surface.
Stair riser and tread dimensions shaH meet the dimensional uuiformity requirements ofs. 1003.3.3.3.1. No
single riser dimension shaH exceed 7 3/8" and no single tread dimension shaH be less than 10 3/8".
Egress illunrination of the stair shaH provide a miuimum of2 foot candles at the floor level which is twice the
code required minimum in !BC s. 1003.2.11.1.
Legible signage shaH be provided in a conspicuous location at the head and foot of the stair stating "CAUTION:
NON-STANDARD STAIR" or similar wording approved by the City of Oshkosh Building Inspection
Department.
This decision win become fmal mtless the department within 30 days ITom the date of this letter receives a written
request for a hearing. A request for hearing should be sent to the address shown on this letterhead. A copy of this
letter must be included with the request for a hearing. The request for hearing should state the reasons for objecting
to the department's decision, because a request for hearing may be deuied if it does not present a siguificant question
in fact, law or policy.
Inquiries concerning this correspondence may be made to me at the telephone number listed below, or at the address
on this letterhead.
JAMES GROFF
Page 3
6/24/2005
Sincerely,
Fee Required $
Fee Received $
Balance Due $
500.00
500.00
0.00
Michael Valdovinos
P. E. ,Integrated Services
(608)267-2498, Monday-Friday 7:00AM - 3:30PM
mvaldovinos@commerce.state.wi.us
Mgmt. Pree. Review by: SPD
cc: Peter R Ochs, Building Inspector, (920) 948-3500 , Friday, 7:45 A.M. - 4:30 P.M.
Timothy R. Franz, Fire Chief, City of Oshkosh Fire Department
Kurt Kielisch, Appraisal Group One
~ commerce.wi.goy
isconsin
Department of Conunerce
Safety & Buildings Division
Bureau of Integrated Services
APPLICATION FOR REVIEW PETITION FOR
VARIANCE SBD-9890X
-Complete aU pages-
1. Facility Information Complete for confirmed appointments.:
Facility (Building) Name: ADDraisal GroUD One Transaction ID:
Number and Street 1856 Omro Road 2io: 54901 Previous Related Trans. ID:
Commerce Site Number (if known): Assigned Reviewer:
Lot 4 Parcel No. 16-1087-4 Assigned Office:
Legal Description:
Review Start Date.:
County of: Winnebaao .Submittal must be received in the office 01 the appointrnentno
(X) City ( ) Village ( ) Town of: Oshkosh later than 2 workinG davs before the confirmed aooointmen!-
NOTE: Personal information vou provide mav be used for secondary DUrn es Privacv Laws. 15.04l1\lm. Stats.
2. Owner Information Customer # 3. Desinner Information Customer # 673100
Name: Kurt Kielisch Designer: James J. Groff A-4338
Company Name: Appraisal Group One Design Firm: H.G.M. Architecture, Inc.
Number and Street: 375 City Center Suite A Number and Street: 805 North Main Street
City, State, Zip Code: Oshkosh, WI 54901 C~y, State, Zip Code: Oshkosh, WI 54901
Contact Person: Kurt Kielisch Contact Person: James J. Groff
Telephone Number: 920-233-9836 Fax Number. 920-233-0526 Telephone Number 920-231-6950 Fax Number: 920-231-4518
This page may be utilized for fax appointments
Complete and indicate date plans will be in our office
4. Plan Review Status
- Plan submitted w~h pet~ion
- Plan will be submitted after pet~ion determination
- Requesting revision
.1L Other: Under review by City of Oshkosh
Commerce Transaction Number
Plan previously review by (please enclose a copy of review letter)
- State - Municipality - Approved - Held - Denied
Code Being Petitioned
Building 'K. HVAC - Plumbing - Private Sewage System
Swimming Pool
Electrical
5. State the code section being pet~ioned AND the specific condition or issue you are requesting be covered under this petition for variance.
'BC Chaoter 1003.3.3-Existino buildino built 1960's under UDC Code. Chanoe of use to B occuaancv 2216 so. ft. < 25 000 cubic feet.
6. Reason why compliance with the code cannot be attained without the variance. Severe structural chances will be reQuired to aut new stair in
buildinG. Buildino is zoned C-2 ad commercial.
7. State your proposed means and rationale of providing equivalent degree of health, safety, or welfare as addressed by the code section petitioned.
See attachement
8. List attachments to be considered as part of the petitione~s statements (i.e., model code sections, test reports, research articies, expert
opinion, previously approved variances, pictures, plans, sketches, etc.).
CODV of 1986-87 Commercial Buildino Code for Wisconsin 51.16(4)a
. VERIFICATION BY OWNER - PETITION IS VALID ONI. Y IF NOTARIZED WITH AFFIXED SEAL AND ACCOMPANIED BY REVIEW FEE
Note: Petitioner must be the owner of the building or system or credential applicant for a Comm 5 petition. Tenanls, agents, designers, contractors,
attorneys, etc., shall not sign petition unless Power of Attorney is submitted with the Petition for Variance Appik:atìon.
kv rr C, k,'r::Ac/'
Petitione~s Name .
Petition ~s . natur
$ -- 500.00
7. Building is an existing residential home being converted to a business occupancy.
Current stair way has riser dimensions of 7 3/8" risers and 10 3/8" treads. Stair
tread are hard oak 1 1116" thick with required 1" projection nosing radius W' as
per code. Structure was built in the 1960's and meets current UDC codes.
Equivalent degree of safety will be the following.
A.
B.
C.
Risers will be painted a light color in contrast to the existing dark treads.
Additional lighting will be added to stairway as per current mc codes
requirements.
Handrails and 2nd floor guard rails will be changed to meet mc Chapter
10 standards. This will also include required hand rail extensions.
Satin finish varnish or carpet will be added to stairs to provide non-slip
surfaces.
Exit signs per mc code will be added. (Stairway occupancy load is 4
people).
D.
E.
It is interesting to note that if this building were classified R-2 (Apartment Building) this
change of use would not require a petition for variance and the stairway dimensions
would have met the Wisconsin Commercial Code for 1986-1987 - 51.I6(4)a.
HGM Architecture, Inc. has researched many model codes which vary from 7" to 7 %"
riser height with tread lengths from 9 W'to 11". However, most codes use the
proportional formula of2 riser + 1 tread equal 24 to 25.5 inches. This existing stairway
meets this proportional formula.
OWner's Name
Kurt Kielisch
Project Location
1856 Omro Road, Oshkosh, Wi
Plan Number
Page 2 of ~
Fire Department Position Statement
To be completed for variances requested from Comm 61-65, Comm 10, Comm 16, and other fire related requirements.
I have read the application for variance and recommend: (check appropriate box)
0 Approval 0 Conditional Approval ~ Denial 0 No Comment
E planation for recommendation includin any CO~fli s with local rules and re ulations and suggested conditions:
, II. . J. /I
c.c.... c:..e.w. '" .
Á2.?¡ fAA);""r¡ 7:L AAA-.. tR-,} AÀ.. Þ 't sLw::] I 6... r:..., cL f~ ~~~ ..R.fP
p-dl þ~ ~ !;-e<.Ð1-1J Ctoo~, th ~ Á~' ~ k ~ ~+~'W7 ~;..;
k.,;tIM.A.t:.+c..""'¿.L~ "~I2A~Jfl J'zi.e d"a.tA..t.u'"':J h-t~ L C-ð"'.LJl-ot..;.!-1 ~
c:k "tv!> A..~rMJ.r,
~ T 101 c.OÞÆ7' ST.
MUNICIPAL BUILDING INSPECTION. RECOMMENDATION
To be completed for variances requested from Comm 20-23. Also to be used for Comm 16 electrical petijions, if Comm
61-65 plan review is by municipalijy or orders are written on the building under construction; optional in other cases.
Please submij a copy of the orders
I have read the application for vañance and recommend: (check appropriate box)
0 Approval 0 Conditional Approval ...B1)enial 0 No Comment
Explanation for recommendation including any conflicts with local rules and regulations and suggested conditions:
Se-£ ,ÇcrrA~Hc"D SHb<=r
Municipality Exercising Jurisdiction
0 Z. G oJ
Name and Address of Municipal Official (type or print)
0";;
Explanation for recommendation:
As indicated in the Application for review petition for variance, this structure was
originally built as a single family residence, and has been used as such. The current
owner has recently had the zouing changed to commercial, and has submitted plans for
local review to change the use of the structure into a commercial building, used for a
business occupancy.
It is difficult to determine what would be equivalent to providing the code required riser
and tread dimensions. In researching the various codes it was noted that reference
proportional formula of2 risers + tread being equal to 24 to 25 inches was deleted from
the codes because it was based on a 300 year old French formula, in which the inch was a
slightly larger unit of measure than it is today. Moreover, people's feet and stride length -
the basis for the formula - were somewhat smaller at that time. The combination of the
new lower riser heights and longer tread run provides the proper geometry to enable the
user to accomplish the necessary balance to descend the stairway with reasonable safety.
In item 7 D. the applicant proposes the possibility that carpet may be added to the stairs.
If this carpet is installed continuously from top to bottom, (covering tread and riser) it
will not only negate the contrasting color proposed in item 7.A., but also reduce the
effective tread depth as the carpet is rolled over the stair nosing. An illustration of this is
contained in the Life Safety Code Handbook 2003 on page 147.
The fact that the number of occupants served by the stair is small and they are familiar
with the building does not by itself justify a variance. In the 2000 mc Handbook - Fire
and Life Safety Provisions, identifies inattention as the single factor producing the
greatest number of missteps, accidents, and injuries. Inattention very frequently results
from the fact the user is very familiar with the stair and its surroundings. Since
attentiveness of users of stairs can not be codifies or dictated, stair geometry, which
usually triggers human error can be controlled.
As we can find no code-related basis for us to recommend approval of this variance we
will leave the decision whether to approve or deny this variance based on the State's past
action in cases similar to this.
~e
~ Systems Inspector
City of Oshkosh - Inspection Services
H:\briann\leT.tel,,-Æpplication j\>r r,view petition tòr variance 1856 Omro Rd.doc
Page 3 of3
Bureau of Integrated Services
PETITION FOR VARIANCE
INFORM~TION AND INSTRUCTIONS Comm 3
In instances wh.ere exa.ct. compliance with. a particular code requirement cannot be met or altemative designs
are desired, the Division has a petition for variance program where it reviews and considers acceptance of
altematives which are not in strict conformance with the letter of the code, but which meet the intent of the
code. A variance is not a waiver from a code requirement. The petitioner must provide an equivalency
which meets the intent of the code section petitioned to obtain a variance. Documentation of the rationale for
the equivalency is requested below. Failure to provide adequate information may delay your petition. Pictures,
sketches, and plans may be submitted to support equivalency. If the proposed equivalency does not
adequately safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of building occupants, frequenters, firefighters, etc., the
variance request will be denied. NOTE: A SEPARATE PETITION IS REQUIRED FOR EACH BUILDING AND
EACH CODE ISSUE PETITIONED (i.e., 57.13 window issue.cannot be processed on the same petition as
51.16 stair issue). It should be noted that a petition for variance does not take the place of any required
plan review submittal. .
The Division is unable to process petitions for variance that are not properly completed. Before submitting the
application, the following items should be checked for completeness in order to avoid delays:
. Petitioner's name (typed or printed)
. Petitioner's signature
. The Petition for Variance Application must be signed by the owner of the building or system unless a Power
of Attomey is submitted.
. Notary Public signature with affIXed seal
. Analysis to establish equivalency, including any pictures, illustrations or sketches of the existing and
proposed conditions to clearly convey your proposal to the reviewer.
Proper fee
. Any required position statements by fire chief or municipal official
A position statement from the chief of the local fire department is required for fire safety issues.
No position statement is required for nonfire safety topics such as sanitarv. plumbing or
POWTS systems and enemy conservation. Position statements for both the fire department and
municipality are required for barrier-free petitions. For rules relating to one- and two-family
dwellings, only a position statement from the local enforcing municipality is required. Position
statements must be completed and signed by the appropriate fire chief or municipal enforcement
official. See the back of SBD-9890-X, Petition for Variance Application form for these position
statement forms. Signatures or seals on all documents must be originals. Photocopies are not
acceptable.
Contact numbers and fees for the Division's review of the petition for variance are as follows:
Chapter (circle appropriate category) Revenue Review Office Contact Nuffiber Fee Revision
COMM5, License, Certification, Registration........................ ....................... Madison ................(608) 261-8500............ ......$200.............$100
Comm 10, Flammable liquids ...........................................................................Madison.....................(608) 266-7529......................$250..............$100
",-,= ,~. ~!90t':òa:.... ......... .............. ............7f;31..........Madiaon.Waukesha.........I606) 266-3064........ .........$250..............$100
Comm 18, Elevators """""'" ........................................................8260 ....................Waukesha .................(262) 521-5444......................$250.... .........$100
Comm, 20-25 Uniform Dwelling Code...........................................7655 ....................Madison.....................(608) 267-5113......................$125................$50
Comm 34. Amusement Rides........................................................8266 ....................Madison.....................1608) 267-4434......................$:250..............$100
Comm 40, Gas Systems....... ........................................................8258 ....................Waukesha .................(262). 648-13617......................$250... .........$100
Comm, 41 Boilers and Pressure Vessels .....................................8258 ....................Waukesha .................(262) 648-13617......................$250 ..............$1 00
Comm 43. AnhvdrousAmmonia ...................................................8258 ....................Waukesha.................1262) 648-8617......................$250... .........$100
Comm 45, Mechanical Refrigeratlon.............................................8258 ....................waukesha .................(262) 648-13617......................$250............$100
Comm 61-65, Commercial.Building Code ...................................7648 ....................AII Offices..................See Office Numbers Below...$500..............$100
tFor Fire SYStem Petnion for Variances - Contact the Madison or Waukesha offices)
Comm õ1-68, Rental Unft Energy Efficiency Code ......................7648 ....................Madlson.....................(608) 267-2240......................$125................$50
Comm 70, Historic Building Code ................................................7648 ....................AII Offices.................. See Office Numbers Below...$300..............$100
Comm 81-85. General PlumblnQ...................................................7657 ....................AII Offices..................See Office Numbers Below... $225................ $75
Comm 90, Swimming Pools. ...................... ......................7650.....................Madison.....................(608) 267-3605......................$250............. $75
Comm 83 POWTS............ . ........................................................7657 ....................AII OfflCes..................See Office Numbers Below...$225................$75
AIiOtherChaøters................................................................................................................................................... $250............$100
ReVisions are accepted only for 1 year after action on original petition.
Priority Review: The Department will schedule Petitions for Variance at the earliest available date, or the date
requested at time of scheduling, which ever is later. Therefore, Priority Reviews are not generally available. In special
circumstances, the Section Chief of the reviewing office may permit review prior to the scheduled date upon request by the
submitter. II eat1ier review is permitted by the Section Chief, the Petition review fees will be doubled.
Except for special cases, the Division will review and make a determination on a petition for variance within 3 business
days of the scheduled beginning date, provided all calculations, documents, and fees required for the review have been
received.
Ap.pointmentand Scheduling. Information
It is strongly recommended that an appointment be made in advance. For your convenience we have installed a 24 hour, toll
free number dedicated to receiving fax plan review appointment request only. The number is 877-840-9172. Be sure to
indicate whether you want the next available review statewide or prefer a choice of an office. The petition review will be
scheduled with the same office where the plan was!will be reviewed. You will receive a Schedule Letter back with an Appointment Date,
Transaction 10 No. and Assigned Reviewer. You may also email the request to PlanSchedulelâ!commerce.state.wi.us. At the time of
makin!} an appointment, you. may request review for a specific. office. of desired (beginning) date for review. Plans must be received. in
the office of the appointment no later than 2 workina davs before the confirmed appointment. Non-scheduled submittals or submittals
received without a confirmed appointment date and transaction number on the form may be assigned to offices other than the receiving
office depending on reviewer availability. Certain petitions may be limited to certain offices depending on the petition
issues, see above table for appropriate office.
Madison S&BD Hayward S&BD laCrosse S&BD. Shawano S&BD Green Bay S&BD Waukesha S&BD
201 W Washington Ave 10541NRanchRd 4003 N Kinney 1340 E Green Bay 2331 San Luis Place 141 NWBarstowSt
53703 Hayward WI 54843 CouleeRd Shawano WI 54166 Green Bay, W 154304 4~ Floor
PO Box 7162 LaCrosse Wl64601- Waukesha WI 53186-
Madison WI 53707-7162 715-634-4870 t831 715-524-3626 92û-492-5601 3789
Fax: (for sending Fax: (for sending FAX: (for sending
608-266-3151 questions to 608-785-9334 questions or questions or additional 262-548-8600
Fax: (for sending addttional info to Fax: (for sending addnìonal info \0 info to reviewers) Fax: (for sending
questions or addttlonal reviewers) questions or reviewers) 92û-492-5804 questions or
info to reviewers) 715-634-5\50 additional info to 7\5-524-3633 Emaii: PlanSchedule@ addnional info to
608-2õ1-9566 Email: reviewers) Email: commerce.state.wi.us reviewers)
TDD 608-264-8777 PlanSchedule@ 608-785-9330 PlanSchedule@ 262-548-8614
Email: PlanSchedule@ commerce.state.wi.us Emaii: commerce.state.wi.US Email: PlanSchedule@
commerce.state.wi.us PlanSchedule@ commerce.state.wi.us
commerce.state.wLus
78
WISCONSIN ADMINISTRATIVE CODE
!LHR 51 Definitions and ,tand..-ds
'c) Under no circumstances shall stairways or ramps decrease in width '
in the Jine of travel toward the exit.
(3) M!NIMUM WIDTH. (a) Except as provided in par. (b), every re-
quired exit stakway or ramp under chs. lLHR 54 to 62 shan be not Jess
than 3 feet S inches wide, except as provided in the occupancy chapters,
of which not more than 4 inches on each side may be occupied by a hand-
raiL The cJear dimension between handrails, or stringers, shall not be less
than 3 feet 0 inches. -
(b) I. Nonrequired stairways or ramps need not conform to the wIdth
requirements specified in chs. ILHR 50 to 64.
2. Stairway chair Jüts, but not platform lifts. for the physically dis-
abled may be installed on the right s;de as one mounts the stairs on re-
quired exit stairways of buildings constructed prior to May ]4, ]974.
a. A cJear stair width of 24 inches measured from the lift, in its open
position. to the nearer edge of the opposite handrail and a ciear dimen-
sion of 3 feet between the lift mounting track or traveling means and the
handrail shall be provided.
b. The lift shall be designed and installed to maintain the code required
exit passageway or stair width when the lift is in the parked or stored
position.
c. Lifts may not encroach more than 24 inches into the net width deter-
mined by s. ILHR 51.15 (6), wi,an in the operating configuration.
(4) RISERS, TREADS AND RAMP SLOPES. Risers and treads shall be de-
signed and provided in accordance with the following:
(a) All stairways and steps shall have a rise of not more than 7% inches
and a tread not less than 9)1, inches. measured from tread to tread and
from riser to riser. Treads and risers shall be uniform in anyone flight.
Winders shall not be used;
Noh' # I' The depaclment recommend, that "eps be prnpn"ion,", so the sum or 2 rL""" aod
n t"ad. "xc!us¡..uI ¡"nosing ur proi""tior.. should be not I"",'han 24 inches or mo," than 25
inches.
'0"#2, The department ma,. acc""t nonstandard e>ilstairway,serving unoccupied aceas.
soch as equipment mezzanines or plaHoMOS. and similar areas. iI approv,", io writing.
No'" ¡¡;" Round or smooth nosing' a""ecommcnded.., thc,. are not difficult to ncgotia" for
iodi,'idoa!, with restriction, in the kn",. ankle or hip. or with artificial leg, or long ieg braces-
(b) The edges of ail treads and the edges of all stairway landings shall
be finished with a nonslippery surface not less than 3 inches in width;
(c) Where an exit door leads to an outside platform or sidewalk, the
level of the platform or sidewalk shall not be more than 7% inches below
the doorsill;
(d) Every stairway night shall have at least 3 risers (unless additional
safety is proyjded which meets the approval of the department); ;nd
(e) There shall be no more than 22 risers in anyone night.
(I) 1. Ramp slopes of required exit ramps may not exceed 1:8.
Regis"" Augus'. 1985. No. 356
STAIR DESIGN AND BUILDING
CODES
g"ilding ood" 'co upd"ed cegul,dy, '° it i, beet to 'On",1t
the "'Hent copy nf "" ,pplicable building ende Ithe BOCA
N"ioca' Building Cnde, tM S"nd"d B"ildlng Code, oc the
Unifoem Building Codel foe Ic"d 'nd ci", dimen,inM, The
In\em,tinn,' Building Cnde will "00 nff" , ",nd"d foc
\he" dimen,ion, when it " publi,hed in 2000
STAIR DESIGN EXAMPLE 1
An "it ,"icw,y in , thee", ",ee , to'" of 20 ft 3 in, Thi,
dimen,inn i, off the gcoph ,hown " left which meen, th"
" le"t nne landing mu" be insec\ed in Ihe "aiL Sele"
two 1I;gh" of to It 1 ~ in, ci" eeoh, Lnnking loe the highe"
pn"ible ci"" cee' ,ocn" tn the ""ci", "oping line
{befo" ocn,,'ng the 7 in, m"lmvm ,i", height linel, then
upw"d to ceed, ci", height 01 6,75 in, Reeding downw"d
10 the bottom hoei,.nta' "i" the nptimum leeed dimen,ion
i, It ~ in, Thi, fig",e can be coun"d down to the 'eg,'
minimum 01 11 In, tn m"e the ,"ic " oemoo" " po"i-
ble
STAIR DESIGN EXAMPLE 2
.~
.
A ,"icw,y in , ,ingle.l,mily hou" ci", 8 fi to In, ,nd
need, to be " oemp"l " po"ible "oocding to CABO
"qui"men" Reed ,ocn" to the 13-cisec ,;oping line. then
upw"d tn "ad a cisecnl 8,15in,
NOTES
I,S"iesshnvldbe "id OCit in bnth plan ,nd section, The di.
men,ion, ,hnwn on \hi, p'ge "e sempl" nnly
2, L,nding, mu" be at lee" " wide" the ","
3, No "ngle flight may cise mo" th,n t2 It 0 in, 13658 mml
y"tically
4,lne"hflight, Ihe" i,nne mo" ,is" than tceed
5, Handcoil, m,y pcole" up to 3 y, In, 189 n,,", iOlo the
"qui"d ""cw,y width, They mu" be oentinuous oc the
end, mu" "\end beynnd Ihe tnp and bottom of the
",iL St"es ""ing "e" 01 ">cue ",i,"noo mue,t heve
4 It deec between hen'coil"
6, S"icw,y don" mu" swiog wilh th, d"""oo nt 'gco"
tco,,' end mu" nnt nb""," moo, thao h", 01 the
cooui"d lending width" ony pnint in the ,wing" When
fully npen dooes must not ,"lke hoodceils [including
"Ie"io,,' "td not penle" moee Ihen 7 i", 1178 mml
Into the tco,,' p"h
7, See AGS poge on "", ot ""'" ",i","" fnl mN'
"",i"ive stoic dime"ioo,"g lequi"mew,
600
",,"
",."
"'3"
i
" I . -r---r-J"""~
"12" ",," "1O" - MIN
TREAD
"1,'mlmR~I" "12r'fi"H ,j3Ô.l "2291
" ALLOWABLE HEAO HEIGHT
/
~li~ ,
"375 "35O "325
mm I l'iI:'iili"III"I"¡-'lIIrl'I,' I I I I'
OPTIMUM TREAD DEPTH IREAD RIGHT TO LEm2R. T" 25' 1635 mml
HANDRAIL
/////,
'" REOUIRED
LANDING
WIDTH MIN
"i
ii:
:~;'
~.
/
/
/
\
\
\
"
ii'
'0;;
.~ ~"
.'.0"
B'.3"
9TREADSAT " "
4'.0"
, / /
" /
. / /
/ / /
NOTE
Me"u" ,lIuw,hle he'd h9lght " n"iog"
PLAN
SAMPLE STAIRWAY
------.-,.--..---.-.-.-.-.----- .--....-.---.-------
Joseph lane, A"hite", Bn"o", '~"",hu"m.
Edw"d Allee", AlA; SOuth Natio!, M"sachusett,
Rippet..u A"hilee", p,o.: W"h,"gtOn, D,o.
/J~c/¡)le<:.;Md 6.~,4/~ >Iar¡d~
~z70A.~ £c!¡{Izrr}
~
EGRESS PLANNING
RAL,
",,"O 00 th,' eod th, lollowiog p'ge no "'"
"mm""es moot oommoo hwldtOg oode eotl
,olatioo "owemeo". 8e ""e tn oh"k looal "g.
; well
, REOUIREMENTS, Cno,"" the "ble b,'nw 00
ode "",w'y "qoi"meo" to dot"mtOe dimeo.
",'otl"ad',ti,ecs,OOd"a"widlhVeolythat
",e 001 mnte ,,"o",ve
ND RISER SIZES U" "" "'" pmpntt"oiog
the ",ooiated AGS "," d"igo p'ge tn liod the
I ti"cs, ti,et h"ght, oodopl,mom ""ddepth
DTH' 10 ,dditino to the mimmom' ,hnwo 00 thi,
t width, m05t al,o meet no"paot load teqoite.
;ed 00 05e gtnop ood finn' "". Cno,"" the In,,1
,de.
$, leodiog, at lee" es wide es the ",it it"iI "e
t the top eod botlnm 01 the "ait aod at ioteemedi.
if o"e""y to eo""e that 00 ,iog" flight hes ,
",hOO 12 It (3658 mm!.
,vaUT, A ,.mp(e ",itw'y pleo ood ,,"ino "e
the 101i0wtOg page 00 ",it desigo. Snme tip' Int
"Inllnw'
° minimom h"dmom 01 61t 8 to. (2032 mml'"
,ideoti', eod 6 It 6 io. [1g81 mmlln' te,ideoti',
ligh" with lewet thoo th"e ti'e" tn mimmi"
th"atd'
, nl doot olonves i, ""mmeoded tn pte"",
y dnn" Itom ob",ootiog the eote" "a,,1 path.
',btio"ed """. the ",i,well eooln"" ,hoold be
e by ,eve,,1 iool", ," "" 01 ""t i"tallatioo
,voitJ "to","" ooofli",
J AND RISER PROPORTIONING
tint "ai" "e desigoed to the "'epe" limit, pet.
code " es tn oooopy the ,"" ,mno", nl ,p'"
""d ,od ,i"t onmbioa"",, th" ,to les, "eep
""ideted In' "tetio' "ai", 9"od ",i". nt ",i"
ew ti"" The mo" ,"mmoo "'e 1m Ihe oomlo".
",iooiog 01 "ai" io the" "",i,2 ,ti'etheight
epth 0 25 to. 1635 mm!. Cn",i"et te"iog IifNi"
of ,"i" 01 o"""al ptOp"tin", to "tify theit
oe,
>RAILS
,mpeoyiog di'gtem, "mm"i" mO>t heod"iI
"" lot oome,ideotiel ",i" Fot ",ideoti,1 "e;"
ed bV ADA, mo" ond" petmit hoodteil' no noly
" the ",it. withnot top eod bnttnm "te",in"'. 10
,0> , 9""et teoge nl heigh" i, al,n pelmined.
"oomm,od, (bvt do" oot "qoi"l additio,,'
et lowel h"gh"whe" ",i" "e ""d by ohil-
DRAILS
'd2"'.(1067mmltOheighta"typi"lIy"qoited
,eo ,id" nl oom"ideoti" 'tei", Wheo heod"iI,
io onmbioatino with' goatd,,". hood"" heigh"
STAIR DETAiLS
Tteetl' ood """ w,,"tO , Ihght mcs'
w,thtO dn" toletem" T"",I, """, b,
,hope 01 ooOtog' ood """ m,,' meet
,hOwo below. CatpettOg 0' othet
epphed ,eoutelV ood thOo" cot """ e
gte"" thoo p"m""d. Heod","" go"dt"",
then"el"" moet meet """0'" ",0 ",wenteo"
Aooe" "gol",o", to ,ome In"I't'" teo"" flom m",,'"
,t"p' 01 onolt"tiog oolm In"ted " the tnp epptOet" to ,
"eit eod at the Inw"t ""d. The" m"""g' "e i",,""d
to aid the yi"ellv ,mp",ed to ,deooIV"'g the lim," 01 ,"e
""" The eppl""'no nf "oh m"bog' meV be ,OPtOC",te
eveo whete oot teo""d, p"'tOul"'v wb"e a high o"pOt.
tioo nf eldetly Ot "",lIv ,mp,ited "e" ,to eotiolpete'
SPECIAL STAIR CONFIGURATIONS
Wiode" ",dietiog ti",,' io """ ontmellv "e p"m"led
ooly io "og'e.fem"v '"ideoo". Mi",m"n ""d ,'eoth
teou;"m,"" " the ""ide 01 the w,"de" m,V ""'" the
""ide "di" nl Ihe "'" Sp"al """ tvp",lIy ,te p"m,,"d
io ,iogle.lamilv ",ideo", eod 1m et"" to m","","" 01
limiled "" io nthot boildiog tvp". Wilh "n,io Iteed depth
"""ot,n"',""ol" ""'w'v' ate pe,,"'tted to ,nn"b"ld.
tOgs. Altemetiog ""d ",itway, ,to petmitted lOt ,nme
m""",o,, eod 1m """ tn tOnltop, rho 0" 01 '"ed
',dde"i,limited 'n,,"" 10te"'tOted""'"ooh" '"01.
top, ood e"votot pit,
REFERENCES
Metaf S'ai" Man"t N'lio",1 A""""no nl A"h,te"o,,1
Me'" Maool"""", 1992.
r,mpl". Joho. The S""o"', 2 vol, C"mh'id"" '.,t,es
MIT p"". 1992.
NOTE
See p'g" io othet A"hiteot"", G"ph" Sleod"d, ,hap.
"" fot ",it on","oolino detail, to va"oo> m""ial' ac' lot
oth"app"o",on,
',,', >3 mITt' RAD'US M"'----;---
~ZJ--_._-
~ -",,'tOemm'MAx
ACC EPT A B LENÒSINGSANDRI!;i;:R Š...
RAD'US,'t,"'3,"m,-' '~I
I
t-_.-J
-----. OPEN R'SER
-.J=E OR ABRUPT UNDERS'DE
UNACCEPTABLE NOSINGS ANO
RISERS
)ING CODE STAIRWAY REQUIREMENTS
BUilDINGS OTHER THAN SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCES
'AG
MINIMUM
TREAD
DEPTH
11"(27gmm)
RISER
RESTRICTtONS
No limits
Intm
;ode
7"' (t78mmlm"imom
4" (102 mml mioimom
7 '1," {t97 mml m"i-
mom
2R + T mo" eq,,'25" 1635 mml
""(27gmml'l 7"'(178mmlm"imom
I 4"(102mmlmtOimom
;AN"iooal 11"(279mml
:nde
'datd 9" {229 mml
:nde
>on. A"h;"ot Bo"oo, M"",ho>et"
\lIeo, AlA, 5nuth Netiok, M","h",""
, A"bite"" P.C., W,sh;ng,no. D.C
8"1203mml i."b 1914mm;
A¡-.e¿;)/lec-IMd G"';j21;"C SIØl7~dd5".2 .
f}v/YlS"cF'1 / s/et?~ ~Oç ,t,b. ¿?drr¡rTl
~
MINIMUM STAIR WIDTH
48- (1219 mml "eat betweeo heod",I, Int ,"i" 'dl",ot to eo "" nl
",,"' """,oe.
44"(1118mml
36" (914 mml lot oooopeo" nl 50" lew"
44"(1118mml
36" (914 mml lot oooopeoov nl 50 " lew" io ,nm, 0""
44" {1118mml
36" 1914 mml fnt nooopeo" 01 49 nt lew"
60" 11524 mml Intedoo"inoel 0" gtnop with oooupeooy nl 100 nt
mnte
/ ','
HM,O,PA".
~;t:;i,;~,'
. . /
'-
"""""",,,."_'OAP,O""
BEn"W' HA"DPAO. AhO WACe
SUPPORT H"'DRA'L 'ROM
BELOW so GRteP'hO SUPOACE
'S NO' 'N"RRUO"D
SECTION
';'~~4~"{(~:-"'Ë';;-DS-O" HANDRA'LS MUST
REWRN SMOOCHLT 'NTO A
WALL 'LOOR OR PO"
'- ,-.-.----' ---'- -.---
RETURN
TO WALL E"EN$tON PtMEN$tON
/ /
RETURN --
TOP O' HANDRAtL MU" BE'
34 TO 3B"'BB4 TO 9BS mm,
ABOVE THE STA'R NOS"'"
/ ,,'
TOP
E"EN$tON
r ,," /, TREAp/
I BOTTOM
I, EXTENS'ON
RETURN TO WALL
'S ADD'T'ONAL TO
REOU,RED
E"ENS'ON HP
,TOP AND BOTTOM'
ELEVAT'ON
~- I:'
(-'=i .......'...
i
NOT OK
NOTES
1. When o"",idetio, mete! p'pe ",,,. do 00\ 00""'" Ihp
oomin,1 ,i" bV which P'l'" "" ,p"ifie' with the "",,;
o""idedi"n"" 01 the p,pe. Th""'"dedieo"t" "
"'get theo the "omi081 ,,'"
2. Heod"iI, m",t be 000,,""°'" on bnth "des 01' ""t
Eod, nl "eo'"iI, m", ,,"od bevo"d ,he ""it" ,how"
ebove.
3. The g,ipping pottino nl, h,n",iI OMt be eo"i"""" to,
t¡¡tol~tO(32to38mmld"me"'tO,md""
HANDRAIL DETAILS CONFORMING TO
ADA AND MOST BUtLDtNG CODES
SINGLE-FAMILV RESIDENCES
i MINIMUM MINIMUM
! 6~~~~ ~~SS"rRRICTIONS ¡;";~~RH
No ',mits No lim",
I Noho,,"
i 9" (22gmml
i 9"(22gmml
I
: g" (229 mml
I
!
8'/;' "'0mml
36"1914mml
7'1."I197mml ! 36"1914mml
!
EGRESS PLANNING
,.
Explanation for recommendation:
As indicated in the Application for review petition for variance, this structure was
originally built as a single family residence, and has been used as such. The current
owner has recently had the zòning changed to commercial, and has submitted plans for
local review to change the use of the structure into a commercial building, used for a
business occupancy.
It is difficult to detennine what would be equivalent to providing the code required riser
and tread dimensions. In researching the various codes it was noted that reference
proportional fonnula of2 risers + tread being equal to 24 to 25 inches was deleted ftom
the codes because it was based on a 300 year old French fonnula, in which the inch was a
slightly larger unit of measure than it is today. Moreover, people's feet and stride length-
the basis for the fonnula - were somewhat smaller at that time. The combination of the
new lower riser heights and longer tread run provides the proper geometry to enable the
user to accomplish the necessary balance to descend the stairway with reasonable safety.
In item 7 D. the applicant proposes the possibility that carpet may be added to the stairs.
If this carpet is installed continuously ftom top to bottom, (covering tread and riser) it
will not only negate the contrasting color proposed in item 7.A., but also reduce the
effective tread depth as the carpet is rolled over the stair nosing. An illustration of this is
contained in the Life Safety Code Handbook 2003 on page 147.
The fact that the number of occupants served by the stair is small and they are familiar
with the building does not by itself justify a variance. In the 2000 mc Handbook - Fire
and Life Safety Provisions, identifies inattention as the single factor producing the
greatest number of missteps, accidents, and injuries. Inattention very ftequently results
ftom the fact the user is very familiar with the stair and its surroundings. Since
attentiveness of users of stairs can not be codifies or dictated, stair geometry, which
usually triggers human error can be controlled.
As we can find no code-related basis for us to recommend approval of this variance we
will leave the decision whether to approve or deny this variance based on the State's past
action in cases similar to this.
uil' Systems Inspector
City of Oshkosh - Inspection Services
1856 Omm ReI.doc
Page 3 of3
Section 7.2 . Means of Egress Components
141
7.2.2.2 Dimensional Criteria.
7.2.2.2.1 Standard Stairs. Stairs shall meet the foHowing
criteria:
(I) New stairs shall be in accordance with Table
7.2.2.2.1(a).
(2)* Existing stairs shall be permitted to remain in use,
provided that they meet the requirements for existing
stairs shown in Table 7.2.2.2.I(b).
A.7.2.2.2.1(2) It is the intent of 7.2.2.2.1(2) to permit the
use of Table 7.2.2.2.I(b) in existing buildings, even where
there is a change in occupancy per 4.6.12. Safety improve-
ments should be made that are reasonable and feasible at
minimal cost. Improvements include removal, repair, or re-
placement of step coverings as described in A.7.2.2.3.5,
particularly Figure A.7.2.2.3.5(e), and addition offunctional
handrails and guardrails in place of or in conjunction with
other rails as described in 7.2.2.4.
(3) Approved existing stairs shall be permitted to be rebuilt
in accordance with the following:
(a) Dimensional criteria of Table 7.2.2.2.I(b)
(b) Other stair requirements of 7.2.2
(4) The requirements for new and existing stairs shall not
apply to stairs located in industrial equipment access
areas where otherwise provided in 40.2.5.2.
Table 7.2.2.2.I(a) New Stairs
Dhnensional Criteria
Feature
Minimum width clear of all
obstructions, except
projections not more than
114 mm (4Yz in.) at or below
handrail height on each side
Maximum height of risers
Minimum height of risers
Minimum tread depth
Minimum headroom
Maximum height between
landings
Landing
1120 mm (44 in.); 915 mm
(36 in.) where total
occupant load of all
stories served by
stairways is fewer than 50
180 mm (7 in.)
IOOmm(4in.)
280 mm (11 in.)
2030 mm (80 in.)
3660 mm (144 in.)
See 7.2.1.3 and 7.2.1.4.4
Table 7.2.2.2.1(b) Existing Stairs
Dimensional Criteria
Feature
Minimum width
clear of all
obstructions,
except
projections not
more than 114
mm (4Y2 in.) at
or below
handrail height
on each side
Maximum height
of risers
Minimum tread
depth
Minimum
headroom
Maximum height
between
landings
Landing
Class A
915 mm (36 in.)
Class B
915 mm (36 in.)
190 mm (7Yz in.) 205 mm (8 in.)
255 mm (10 in.) 230 mm (9 in.)
2030 mm (80 in.) 2030 mm (80 in.)
3660 mm 3660 mm (144 in.)
(144 in.)
See 7.2.\.3 and 7.2.1.4.4
142
Chapter 7 . Means of Egress
180 mm (7 in.) maxI
~
~) I ----280mm(11 in.) min.
1120mm(44in. min.'
New Stairs
190mm (7.5 in.) m)
~
~ ~ """'255mm (10 in.) min.
1120mm(44~'
Existing Class A Stairs
205 mm (8 in.) m:I
~
~ 230 mm (9 in.) min.
1120mm(~'
Existing Class B Stairs
'If total oceupant load is fewer than 50,
minimum stair width is 915 mm (36 in.)
7.2.2.2.2 Curved Stairs.
7.2.2.2.2.1 New curved stairs shall be permitted as a compo-
nent in a means of egress, provided that the.depth of tread
is not less than 280 mm (11 in.) at a point 305 mm (12 in.)
from the narrower end of the tread and the smallest radius
is not less than twiée the stair width.
7.2.2.2.2.2 Existing curved stairs shall be permitted as a
component in a means of egress, provided that the depth of
tread is not less than 255 mm (10 in.) at a point 305 mm
(12 in.) ITom the narrower end of the tread and the smallest
radins is not less than twice the stair width.
Section 7.2 . Means of Egress Components
143
I
I
I
I <i)
~-
7.2.2.2.3 Spiral Stairs.
7.2.2.2.3.1 Where specifically permitted for individual oc-
'Upancies by Chapter 12 through Chapter 42, spiral stairs
¡hall be pennitted as a component in a means of egress in
lccordance with 7.2.2.2.3.2 through 7.2.2.2.3.4.
1.2.2.2.3.2 Spiral stairs shall be pennitted, provided that the
allowing criteria are met:
I) Riser heights shall not exceed 180 mm (7 in.).
2) The stairway shall have a tread depth of not less than
280 mm (11 in.) for a portion of the stairway width
sufficient to provide egress capacity for the occupant
load served in accordance with 7.3.3.1.
3) At the outer side of the stairway, an additional 265 mm
(lOy, in.) of width shall be provided clear to the other
handrail, and this width shall not be included as part of
the required egress capacity.
e Safety Code Handbook 2003
--
(4) Handrails complying with 7.2.2.4 shall be provided on
both sides of the spiral stairway.
(5) The inner handrail shall be located within 610 mm (24
in.), measured horizontally, of the point where a tread
depth of not less than 280 mm (11 in.) is provided.
(6) The turn of the stairway shall be such that the outer
handrail is at the right side of descending nsers.
7.2.2.2.3.3 Where the occupant load served does not exceed
three, spiral stairs shall be permitted, provided that the fol-
lowing criteria are met:
(I) The clear width of the stairs shall be not less than 660
mm (26 in.).
(2) The height of risers shall not exceed 240 mm (9\12 in.).
(3) The headroom shall be not less than 1980 mm (78 in.).
(4) Treads shall have a depth not less than 190 mm (7\12
in.) at a point 305 mm (12 in.) from the narrower edge.
(5) All treads shaH be identical.
(6) Handrails shall be provided on both sides of the stairway.
7.2.2.2.3.4 Wh~re the occupant load served does not exceed
five, existing spiral stairs shaH be permitted, provided the
requirements of7.2.2.2.3.3(1) through 7.2.2.2.3.3(5) are met.
. .2.3 Stair Details.
¡¡¡
7~.2.3.1 Construction.
'.~.2.3.1.1 An stairs serving as required means of egress
I be of permanent fixed construction, unless they are
rs serving seating that is designed to be repositioned in
rdance with Chapter 12 and Chapter 13.
~F.3:1.2 Each stair, platform, and landing, not including
~ndnuls and existing stairs, in buildings required in this
0 be of Type I or Type II construction shall be of
bustible material throughout.
Code Hendbook 2003
Section 7.2 . Means of Egress Components
7.2.2.3.2 Landings.
7.2.2.3.2.1 Stairs shall have landings at door openings, ex-
cept as permitted in 7.2.2.3.2.5.
7.2.2.3.2.2 Stairs and intermediate landings shall continue
with no.decrease in width along the direction of egress travel.
7.2.2.3.2.3 In new buildings, every landing shall have a
dimension, measured in the direction of travel, that is not
less than the width of the stair.
7.2.2.3.2.4. Landings shan not be required to exceed 1220
mm (48 in.) in the direction of travel, provided that the stair
has a straight run.
7.2.2.3.2.5 In one- and two-family dwellings and existing
buildings, a door at the top of a stair shall be perruitted to
open directly to the stair, provided that the door does not
swing over the stair and the door serves an area with an
occupant load of fewer than 50 persons.
7.2.2.3.3 Tread and Landing Surfaces.
7.2.2.3.3.1 Stair treads and landings shan be solid, without
perforations, unless otherwise perruitted in 7.2.2.3.3.4.
7.2.2,3.3.2* Stair treads and landings shall be ITee of projec-
tions or lips that conld trip stair users.
145
144
Chapter 7 . Means of Egress
r; Handrails ~
280 mm (11 in.)
min. tread depth \
I
I
Down
7.2.2.2.4* Winders.
A.7.2.2.2.4 If properly designed and constructed, stairs with
winders are not necessarily more dangerous than other stairs.
Attention to the foHowing factors helps to make winders
generally more effective for egress and safety. Handrails
should be continuous, without breaks at newel posts, ITom
story to story. Handrails located at a greater than' normal
distance ITom the inner turn of winders can improve safety
by constraiuing stair users to walk on the portion of the
treads providing deeper treads, which should have not less
than 280 mm (11 in.) of depth. Combinations of stra
flights and winders are best arranged with winders 10
only below the straight flight. This arrangement is b
cause the winders provide larger tread dimensions Over
of their width than do typical treads on straight flig
descending person will, thus, be nnIikely to experien
reduction of tread depth during descent, a condition of n
uuiformity that is best avoided.
7.2.2.2.4.1 Where specified in Chapter 12 through Cha
42, winders shall be permitted in stairs, provided that
meet the requirements of 7.2.2.2.4.2 and 7.2.2.2.4.3.
7.2.2.2.4.2 New winders shall have a tread depth of not
than 150 mm (6 in.) and a tread depth of not less than
mm (11 in.) at a point 305 mm (12 in.) ITom the narr
edge.
7.2.2.2.4.3 Existing winders shaH be permitted to be co
ued in use, provided that they have a tread depth of not
than 150 mm (6 in.) and a tread depth of not less than
mm (9 in.) at a point 305 mm (12 in.) from the narro
edge.
Section 7.2 . Means of Egress Components
147
/.
Horizontal
Tread slope
to front
Riserheight=A+B
A
Figure A.7.2.2.3.5(a) Riser Measurement with Tread Slope
to Front.
Tread slope
to back
A
Riserheight=A-B
Horizontal
B
Figure A.7.2.2.3.5(b) Riser Measurement with Tread Slope
to Back.
I~
depth
Figure A.7.2.2.3.5(c) Tread Depth.
/.
Tread depth
Curvature or
slope here can
further reduce
tread depth
Figure A.7.2.2.3.5(d) Tread Measurement with Stable Sup-
port at Leading Edge.
Tread depth
Projection interteres
with descending foot
Figure A.7.2.2.3.5(e) Tread Measurement with Unstable
Stepping Surface at Leading Edge.
-
I
146
Chapter 7 . Means of Egress
A.7.2.2.3.3.2 The tripping hazard referred to in 7.2.2.3.3.2
occurs especially during descent, where the tread walking
surface has projections such as strips of high-friction materi-
als or lips from metal pan stairs that are not completely
filled with concrete or other material. Tread nosings that
project over adjacent treads can also be a tripping hazard.
ICCI ANSI AI17 .1,American National Standardfor Accessi-
ble and UsabkBuildings and Facilities. illustrates pro-
jecting nosing configurations that miuimize the hazard.
Where environmental conditions (such as illumination
levels and directionality or a complex visual field that draws
a person's attention away ITom stair treads) lead to a hazard-
ous reduction in one's ability to perceive stair treads, they
should be made of a material that allows ready discrimination
of the number and position of treads. ill aH cases, the leading
edges of all treads should be readily visible during both
ascent and descent. A major factor in injury-producing stair
accidents and in the ability to use stairs efficiently in condi-
tions such as egress is the clarity of the stair treads as separate
stepping surfaces.
7.2.2.3.3.3 If not vertical, risers on other than existing stairs
shall be permitted to slope under the tread at an angle not
to exceed 30 degrees from vertical, provided that the projec-
tion of the nosing does not exceed 38 mm (lY, in.).
7.2.2.3.3.4 The requirement of 7.2.2.3.3.1 shall not apply
to noncombustible grated stair treads and landings in the
following occupancies:
(I) Assembly occupancies as otherwise provided in Chapter
12 and Chapter 13
(2) Detention and correctional occupancies as otherwise
provided in Chapter 22 and Chapter 23
(3) Industrial occupancies as otherwise provided in Chapter
40
7.2.2.3.4* Tread Slope. Tread slope shall not exceed 21
mm/m (y4 in./ft) (a slope of I in 48).
A.7.2,2.3.4 A small drainage slope for stair treads subject
to weuing can improve tread slip resistance (see also
A.7.2.2.3.3.2). A consistent slope to a side of the stair, where
drainage is possible, might be preferable to a front-to-back
slope of the treads. Providing a pitch of 10 mm/m to
21 mm/m (Ys in./ft to y4 in./ft) aids the shedding of water
from a nominally horizontal surface.
7.2.2.3.5* Riser Height and Tread Depth. Riser height
shall be measured as the vertical distance between tread
nosings. Tread depth shall be measured horizontally between
the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent
treads and at a right angle to the tread's leading edge but
shall not include beveHed or rounded tread surfaces that
slope more than 20 degrees (a slope of I in 2.75). At tread
nosings, such bevelling or rounding shall not exceed 13 mm
(Y, in.Jin horizontal dimension.
A.7.2.2.3.5 Figure A.7.2.2.3.5Ja), Figure A.7.2.2.3.5(b),
Figure A.7.2.2.3.5(c), and Figure A.7.2.2.3.5(d) illustrate
the method for measuring riser height and tread depth. Stairs
that are covered with resilient floor coverings might need
additional tread depth beyond the minimum specified in
the Code. Any horizontal projection of resilient covering
materials beyond the tread nosing and riser, such as carpet
and underlayment, can interfere with users' feet and thereby
reduce usable tread depth. At the tread nosing, such resilient
covering materials might not be capable of providing stable
support for users' feet. Generally, effective tread depth is
reduced by the uncompressed thickness of such resilient
coverings and might be further reduced over time if cov-
erings are not well secured and consequently move forward
at the nosings. [See Figure A. 7.2.2.3.5(e).]
2003 LIfe Safety Code Handbo
148
Chapter 7 . Means of Egress
7.2.2.3.6 Dimensional Uniformity.
7.2.2.3.6.1 Variation in excess of 4.8 mm (VI, in.) in the
depth of adjacent treads or in the height of adjacent risers
shall be prohibited nnless otherwise permitted in 7.2.2.3.6.3.
7.2.2.3.6.2 The tolerance between the largest and smaHest
riser or between the largest and smallest tread shall not
exceed 9.5 mm (% in.) in any flight.
7.2.2.3.6.3 Where the bottom riser adjoins a sloping public
way, walk, or driveway having an established grade and
serving as a landing, the bottom riser shall be permitted to
have a variation in height of not more than 25 mm in every
300 mm (1 in. in every 12 in.) of stairway width.
2003 LifeSafety Code Ha
ANDBOOK-FIRE- AND LlFE-SAFETY PROVISIONS
'ations are discussed elsewhere in this chapter. An-
ption allows 73/4 inches (197 mm) maximum and 10
mm) mnimum for rise and run, respectively, for
in Group R-3 Occupancies, within dwelIing units in
2 Occnpancies and in Group U Occupancies accessory
up R-3.
71N. MAXtRISE
(4 IN. MIN. RISE)
I-
.1
RISE AND RUN
FIGURE 1003-33
e 7-inch (178 mm) rise and ll-inch (279 mm) run figures
e steps are relatively new in the code and represent a break
tradition. They are based on safety in descending the stairs
the result of much research. Probably at no prior time in
ory of codes has the proportionate of stairs had a better
tion in research.2
riCally, the pitch angle of stairways has been measured
a plane tangent to the tread nosings and the horizontal.
uently, the rise and run of steps has been based on
ort in ascending stairs. In fact, one of the reasons given by
ponent of the 7-inch (178 mm) riser height and ll-inch
mm) tread run was for ease of climbing for persons with
ilities.
he former figures for the riser height and tread run of
inches and 10 inches (191 mm and 254 mm), respectively,
been in building codes for decades. In fact, these dimensions
e in the first edition of the Uniform Building Code m pub-
ed in 1927. Until recent years, these dimensions satisfied aH
rules commonly in use for stairway geometry. The rules most
ften applied were:
1. The riser height plus the tread run shall not be less than
17112 inches or greater than 18 inches.
2. Twice the riser height plus the tread run shall not be less
than 24 inches or greater than 25 inches.
3. The product of the riser height and the tread run in inches
shaH not be less than 70 or greater than 75.
4. Maximum pitch angle is 37 degrees.
It may be of particular interest to note that the second rule was
originated by a French architect in the 17th century.3 Certainly
that formula, as stated, was based on the usability of the stairway
and the comfort of the user. However, since that formula
was developed, two thi]1gs have happened. The size of the
95-percentile human being has increased. In other words, as a
human race, we have individually become larger. The other
CHAPTER 10
change that has occurred sìrice the 17th century is that the length
of the inch has changed and has become shorter.
A number of years ago, it became evident that these rules
were woefully inadequate as evidenced by the enormous num-
ber of accidents-about 800,000 annuaHy at one point-attrib-
uted to stairway use. Of these serious accidents, approximately
4,000 were fatal.2 This unacceptably high rate of accidents and
deaths prompted numerous studies to determine the parameters
necessary for the safe use of stairways.
The results of those research projects revealed that riser
heights should be lower than standard practice and should be
, between 41/2 inches and 71/4 inches (114 mm and 184mm). The
same researchers found that the tread run should be greater than
standard practice and should be between 11 inches and 14 inches
(279 mm and 356 mm), with one study preferring 12 inches (305
mm).
As one descends a stairway, balance is essential for safety.
Therefore, the tread run must be of such a dimension as to permit
the user to balance comfortably on the ban of th~ foot. The com-
bination of lower riser height and longer tread run provides the
. proper'gêornefrý to enable the user to accomplish the necessary
balance to descend the stairway with reasonable safety. Consis-
tent with the importance of the tread dimension, the method of
measurement of the tread is expressly stated. Specifically, tread
depth (or run) is that distance measured horizontally between
vertical planes passing through the foremost projections of adja-
cent treads. As such, the tread dimension is the net gain in the run
of the stair. Tread dimension is measured in this manner because
any tread surface underneath the overhang of a sloping riser or
nosing on the tread above is not available to the person descend-
ing the stair. Since descending is the more critical direction,
proper dimension of the tread is of paramount importance.
Studies of people traveling on stairways have shown that
probably the greatest hazard on a stair is the user. Inattention has
been identified as the single factor producing the greatest num-
ber of missteps, accidents and injuries. Inattention very fre-
quently results from the fact that the user is very familiar with
the stair and its surroundings. It often results from a variety of
distractions. It is critical to stair safety that the stair user be atten-
tive to the stair, although attentiveness cannot be codified or
dictated. However, stair design and geometry, which usually
triggers human error, can be controlled.2
1003.3.3.3.1 Dimensional nniformity. A significant safety fac-
tor relative to stairways is the uniformity of risers and treads in
any flight of stairs. The section of a stairway leading from one
landing to the next is defined as a flight of stairs. It is very impor-
tant that any variation that would interfere with the rhythm of the
stair user be avoided. While it is true that adequate attention to
the use of the stair can compensate for substantial variations in
risers and treads, it is all too frequent that the necessary attention
is not given by the stair user.
To obtain the best uniformity possible in a flight of stairs, the
maximum variation between the highest and lowest risers and
between the widest and narrowest treads is limited to 3/8 inch
(9.5 mm). This tolerance is not intended to be used as a design
variation, but it does recognize that construction practices make
it difficult to get exactly identical riser heights and tread dimen-
sions in constructing a stairway facility in the field. Therefore,
the code aHows the variation indicated in Figure 1003-34.
207
FIRE- AND LIFE-SAFETY PROVISIONS
ceptable latching or locking device on an
very basic in that no key, special effort or
ge is necessary to open the door.
ssues are as important as those addressing
fety, the IBC permits the installation of
ks.
is mandated in Group A and Group E Oc-
g an occupant load of 100 or more, as wen
dous occupancies.
the means of egress are regulated in a
to doors.
ed a change of elevation accomplished
risers, while one or more flights of such
a stairway, along with any landings that
s must be appropriately sized and uniform
stair flight.
, winders and alternating tread devices are
use due to the uniqueness of their configu-
is regulated for height, size, shape and
designed for egress purposes as well as for
cribes the vast majority of a building's
provides the access necessary to reach a
exit).
two exits is typically required from base-
Is above the first story, and rooms or
Ie occupant loads or excessive travel
s must be arranged in order to minimize
e fire blocking all of the exitways.
om through a nonhazardous accessory
provided there is a discernible egress
t and obvious.
limited within the exit access portion of
however, once an exit is reached,
longer regulated.
seating is at tables, additional limitations
the aisles and aisle accessways utilized
ses.
. tended to be used for circulation and
and at times must be constructed as a
nt for use as a path for egress travel.
ortion of the means of egress that provides
cupant protection from fire, smoke and
CHAPTER 10
. Horizontal exits, exit passageways, exit enclosures, stair
exit doors, exterior exit ramps and exterior exit stairways
are the exit components addressed in the !Be.
. In some buildings, two floors may be interconnected with-
out the need of an exit enclosure.
. Exit enclosures are to be constructed of either I-hour or
2-hour fire-resistance-rated construction with protected
openings.
. Openings and penetrations through an exit enclosure are
strictly limited due to the hazards involved with vertical
egress.
. An exit passageway is similar to a corridor, but built to a
higher level and limited in much the same manner as a
vertical exit enclosure.
. The concept of a horizontal exit is the creation of a refuge
area to be used by occupants fleeing the area of fire origin.
. The use of an exterior exit stairway as a required means of
egress element is limited to buildings not exceeding six
stories or 75 feet (22 860 mm) in height.
. Egress travel outside of the building is considered exit dis-
charge, continuing until the public way is reached.
. An egress court, open so that smoke and toxic gases will
not accumulate, is an exit discharge component.
. Egress courts of limited width must be provided with a
minimum level of fire protection in order to protect occu-
pants as they pass through the egress court.
. Larger auditoriums, theaters and similar assembly spaces
are uniquely regulated as to the design of the egress
system.
. In assembly occupancies, the method for calculating aisle
widths is modified where smoke-protected assembly seat-
ing is provided.
. Grandstands and bleachers, while similar in many aspects
to typical assembly seating, are regulated by unique
provisions based upon their limited application.
. In Group R and 1-1 Occupancies, emergency escape and
rescue openings are mandated for all sleeping rooms
below the fourth story.
REFERENCES
1 Sheedy, Paul (1985). Stair railings. Building Standards, 54(2):4-9.
2 Pauis, Jake L. (1984). What can we do to improve stairsafety? Building Stan-
dards, 53(3):9-12, 42-43, and 53(4):t3-16, 42.
3 Fitch, James Marston, John Templar and Paul Corcoran (1974). The dimen-
sions of stairs. Scientific American, Octoher.
4 National Bureau of Standards (1935). Design and Construction of Building
Exits, Miscellaneous Publication, M15!. United States Government Printing
Office, Wasbington, D.C
5 Koyamatsu, T.J. (1983). Corridor protection - Combustible and noncombus-
tible construction. Building Standards, 52(5):8-10, 50.
253
Wisconsin Enrolled Cornmerical Building Code - 2002
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code / Volume 1 / Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 62 / CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS / SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS / 1003.3 Means of egress components. / 1003.3.3
Stairways.
1003.3.3 Stairways.
Stairways shall cornply with Sections 1003.3.3.1 through 1003.3.3.12.1 .
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code / Volume 1 / Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 62 / CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS / SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS / 1003.3 Means of egress components. / 1003.3.3
Stairways. / 1003.3.3.1 Stairway width.
1003.3.3.1 Stairway width.
The width of stairways shall be detennined as specified in Section 1003.2.3 but such
width shall not be less than 44 inches (1118 rnm). See Section 1003.2.13.2 for accessible
rneans of egress stairways.
Exceptions:
1.
Stairways serving an occupant load of 50 or less shall have a width of
not less than 36 inches (914 rnm).
Spiral stairways as provided for in Section 1003.3.3.9.
2.
3.
Aisle stairs cornplying with Section 1008.
4.
Where a stairway lift is installed on stairways serving occupancies in
Group R-3, or within dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, both
as applicable in Section 101.2, a clear passage width not less than 20
inches (508 rnm) shall be provided.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code / Volume 1 / Part B - The mc, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 62 / CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS / SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS / 1003.3 Means of egress components. / 1003.3.3
Stairways. / 1003.3.3.2 Headroom.
1003.3.3.2 Headroom.
Stairways shall have a minirnurn headroorn clearance of 80 inches (2032 rnm) rneasured
vertically ITorn a line cormecting the edge of the nosings. Such headroom shall be
continuous above the stairway to the point where the line intersects the landing below,
one tread depth beyond the bottom riser. The minimurn clearance shall be maintained the
full width of the stairway and landing.
@ 2001 International Code Council, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Wisconsin Enrolled Commerical Building Code - 2002
Exception: Spiral stairways complying with Section 1003.3.3.9 are pennitted a
78-inch (1981 mm) headroom clearance.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.3 Stair treads and risers.
1003.3.3.3 Stair treads and risers.
Stair riser heights shall be 7 inches (178 mm) rnaxirnum and 4 inches (102 mm)
minimurn. Stair tread deptiišSiíillbe II inches (279 mm) minimum. The riser height
shall be rneasured vertically betweeii: the leading edges of adjacent treads. The tread
depth shall be rneasured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost
projection of adjacent treads and at right angle to the tread's leading edge.
Exceptions:
1.
Circular stairways in accordance with Section 1003.3.3.7.
Winders in accordance with Section 1003.3.3.8.
2.
3.
Spiral stairways in accordance with Section 1003.3.3.9.
4.
Aisle stairs in assembly seating areas where the stair pitch or slope is set,
for sightiine reasons, by the slope of the adjacent seating area in
accordance with Section 1008.9.2.
5.
ill occupancies in Group R-3, as applicable in Section 101.2, within
dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, as applicable in Section
101.2, and in occupancies in Group D, which are accessory to an
occupancy in Group R-3, as applicable in Section 101.2, the maxirnum
riser height shall be 7.75 inches (197 mm) and the rninimum tread depth
shall be 10 inches (254 mm). A nosing not less than 0.75 inch (19.1 mm)
but not more than 1.25 inches (32 mm) shall be provided on stairways
with solid risers where the tread depth is less than II inches (279 mm).
6.
See Section 3402.4 for the replacernent of existing stairways.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.3 Stair treads and risers. I 1003.3.3.3.1 Dimensional uniformity.
1003.3.3.3.1 Dimensional uniformity.
Stair treads and risers shall be of uniform size and shape. The tolerance between
@ 2001 International Code Council, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Wisconsin Enrolled Coromerical Building Code - 2002
the largest and smallest riser or between the largest and smallest tread shall not
exceed 0.375 inch (9.5 rom) in any flight of stairs.
Exceptions:
I.
Nonuniform riser dirnensions of aisle stairs cornplying with
Section 1008.9.2.
Consistently shaped winders, complying with Section
1003.3.3.8, differing ITom rectangular treads in the same
stairway flight.
Where the bottorn or top riser adjoins a sloping public way, walkway or
driveway having an established grade and serving as a landing, the bottom or top
riser is permitted to be reduced along the slope to less than 4 inches (102 rom) in
height with the variation in height of the bottom or top riser not to exceed one
unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8-percent slope) of stairway width. The
nosings or leading edges of treads at such nonuniform height risers shall have a
distinctive marking stripe, different ITom any other nosing marking provided on
the stair flight. The distinctive marking stripe shall be visible in descent of the
stair and shall have a slip-resistant surface. Marking stripes shall have a width of
at least I inch (25.4 rom) but not rnore than 2 inches (51 rom).
2.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.3 Stair treads and risers. I 1003.3.3.3.2 Profile.
1003.3.3.3.2 Profile.
The radius of curvature at the leading edge of the tread shall be not greater than
0.5 inch (12.7 rom). Beveling of no sings shall not exceed 0.5 inch (12.7 rom).
Risers shall be solid and vertical or sloped ITom the underside of the leading
edge of the tread above at an angle not more than 30 degrees (0.52 Tad) ITOm the
vertical. The leading edge (nosings) of treads shall project not more than 1.25
inches (32 rom) beyond the tread below and all projections of the leading edges
shall be of uniform size, including the leading edge of the floor at the top of a
flight.
Exceptions:
I.
Solid risers are not required for stairways that are not required to
comply with Section 1003.2.13.2, provided that the opening
between treads does not permit the passage of a sphere with a
diameter of 4 inches (102 rom).
2.
Solid risers are not required for occupancies in Group 1-3.
@ 2001 International Code Council, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Wisconsin Enrolled Comrnerical Building Code - 2002
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building CDde / Volume 1 / Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 62 / CIJAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS / SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS / 1003.3 Means of egress components. / 1003.3.3
Stairways. / 1003.3.3.4 Stairway landings.
1003.3.3.4 Stairway landings.
There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottorn of each stairway. The width of
landings shall not be less than the width of stairways they serve. Every landing shall have
a rninirnurn dimension rneasured in the direction of travel equal to the width of the
stairway. Such dirnension need not exceed 48 inches (1219 rom) where the stairway has a
straight run.
Exceptions:
1.
2.
Aisle stairs complying with Section 1008.
Doors opening onto a landing shall not reduce the landing to less than
one-half the required width. When fully open, the door shall not project
more than 7 inches (178 rom) into a landing.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code / Volume 1 / Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 62 / CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS / SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS / 1003.3 Means of egress components. / 1003.3.3
Stairways./l003.3.3.5 Stairway construction.
1003.3.3.5 Stairway construction.
All stairways shall be built of materials consistent with the types pennitted for the type
of construction of the building, except that wood handrails shall be permitted for all
types of construction.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code / Volume 1 / Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 62 / CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS / SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS / 1003.3 Means of egress components. / 1003.3.3
Stairways. / 1003.3.3.5 Stairway construction. / 1003.3.3.5.1 Stairway walking surface.
1003.3.3.5.1 Stairway walking surface.
The walking surface of treads and landings of a stairway shall not be sloped
steeper than one unit vertical in 48 units horizontal (2-percent slope) in any
direction. Stairway landings shall have a solid surface. Finish floor surfaces shall
be securely attached.
Exception: In Group F, H and S occupancies, other than areas of parking
@ 2001 International Code Council, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Wisconsin Emolled Cornrnerical Building Code - 2002
structures accessible to the public, openings in treads and landing platforms
shall not be prohibited provided a sphere with a diarneter of 1.125 inches (29
rnrn) cannot pass through the opening.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.5 Stairway construction. I 1003.3.3.5.2 Outdoor conditions.
1003.3.3.5.2 Outdoor conditions.
Outdoor stairways and outdoor approaches to stairways shall be designed so that
water will not accumulate on walking surfaces. In other than occupancies in
Group R-3, and occupancies in Group U that are accessory to an occupancy in
Group R-3, treads, platforms and landings that are part of exterior stairways in
climates subject to snow or ice shall be protected to prevent the accurnulation of
same.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS /1003.3 Means of egress components./l003.3.3
Stairways. 11003.3.3.6 Vertical rise.
1003.3.3.6 Vertical rise.
A flight of stairs shall not have a vertical rise greater than 12 feet (3658 rnrn) between
floor levels or landings.
Exception: Aisle stairs complying with Section 1008.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.7 Circular stairways.
1003.3.3.7 Circular stairways.
Circular stairways shall have a rninimum tread depth and a rnaxirnum riser height in
accordance with Section 1003.3.3.3 and the smaller radius shall not be less than twice
the width of the stairway. The rninirnum tread depth rneasured 12 inches (305 rnrn) from
the narrower end of the tread shall not be less than 11 inches (279 rnrn). The rninirnum
tread depth at the narrow end shall not be less than 10 inches (254 rnrn).
Exception: For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual dwelling units in
occupancies in Group R-2, both as applicable in Section 101.2, the srnaller radius
restriction shall not apply and the rninirnum tread depth at the narrOw end shall not
@ 2001 International Code Council, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Wisconsin Enrolled Cornrnerical Building Code - 2002
be less than 6 inches (152 rnrn).
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means Df egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.8 Winders.
1003.3.3.8 Winders.
Winders are not permitted in means of egress stairways except within a dwelling unit.
Winders shall have a tread depth of not less than II inches (279 rnrn) at a point not rnore
than 12 inches (305 rnrn) from the narrow edge. The rninirnurn tread depth shall not be
less than 6 inches (152 rnrn).
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.9 Spiral stairways.
1003.3.3.9 Spiral stairways.
Spiral stairways are permitted to be used as a component in the rneans of egress only
within dwelling units or frorn a space not more than 250 square feet (23 rn2) in area and
serving not rnore than five occupants, or from galleries, catwalks, and gridirons in
accordance with Section 1007.5.
A spiral stairway shall have a 7.5-inch (191 rnrn) minimurn clear tread depth at a point 12
inches (305 rnrn) frorn the narrow edge. The risers shall be sufficient to provide a
headroom of 78 inches (1981 rnrn) rninirnurn, but riser height shall not be rnore than 9.5
inches (241 rnrn). The rninirnurn stairway width shall be 26 inches (660 rnrn).
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.10 Alternating tread devices.
1003.3.3.10 Alternating tread devices.
Alternating tread devices are limited to an elernent of a means of egress in buildings of
Groups F, H and S frorn a mezzanine not more than 250 square feet (23 m2) in area and
which serves not more than five occupants; in buildings of Group 1-3 from a guard tower,
observation station or control roorn not more than 250 square feet (23 rn2) in area; and
for access to unoccupied roofs.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
@ 2001 International Code Council, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Wisconsin Enrolled Cornrnerical Building Code - 2002
Modified by Chapter Comm 62 / CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS / SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS / 1003.3 Means of egress components. / 1003.3.3
Stairways. / 1003.3.3.10 Alternating tread devices. / 1003.3.3.10.1 Handrails of alternating
tread devices.
1003.3.3.10.1 Handrails of alternating tread devices.
Handrails shall be provided on both sides of alternating tread devices and shall
conform to Section 1003.3.3.11.
Wisconsin Enrolled CDmmercial Building Code / Volume 1 / Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 62 / CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS / SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS / 1003.3 Means of egress components. / 1003.3.3
Stairways. / 1003.3.3.10 Alternating tread devices. / 1003.3.3.10.2 Treads of alternating
tread devices.
1003.3.3.10.2 Treads of alternating tread devices.
Alternating tread devices shall have a minimum projected tread of 5 inches (127
rnrn), a minirnum tread depth of 8.5 inches (216 rnrn), a rninirnum tread width of
7 inches (178 rnrn) and a rnaxirnum riser height of 9.5 inches (241 rnrn). The
initial tread of the device shall begin at the same elevation as the platform,
landing or floor surface.
Exception: Alternating tread devices used as an element of a rneans of
egress in buildings ITOm a rnezzanine area not more than 250 square feet (23
rn2) in area which serves not rnore than five occupants shall have a minirnum
projected tread of 8.5 inches (216 rnrn) with a rninirnum tread depth of 10.5
inches (267 rnrn). The rise to the next alternating tread surface should not be
more than 8 inches (203 rnrn).
WiscDnsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code / Volume 1 / Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 62 / CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS / SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS / 1003.3 Means of egress components. / 1003.3.3
Stairways. / 1003.3.3.11 Handrails.
1003.3.3.11 Handrails.
Stairways shall have handrails on each side. Handrails shall be adequate in strength and
attachment in accordance with Section 1607.7.
Exceptions:
1.
Aisle stairs provided with a center handrail need not have additional
handrails.
@ 2001 International Code Council, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Wisconsin Enroned Cornrnerical Building Code - 2002
2.
Stairways within dwelling units, spiral stairways and aisle stairs serving
seating only on one side are permitted to have a handrail on one side
only.
3.
Decks, patios, and walkways that have a single change in elevation
where the landing depth on each side of the change of elevation is
greater than what is required for a landing do not require handrails.
5.
In Group R-3 occupancies, a change in elevation consisting of a single
riser at an entrance or egress door does not require handrails.
Changes in roorn elevations of only one riser within dwelling units in
Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies do not require handrails.
4.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.11 Handrails. I 1003.3.3.11.1 Height.
1003.3.3.11.1 Height.
Handrail height, rneasured above stair tread nosings, or finish surface of ramp
slope, shan be uniform, not less than 34 inches (864 rnrn) and not rnore than 38
inches (965 rnrn).
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.11 Handrails. I 1003.3.3.11.2 Intermediate handrails.
1003.3.3.11.2 Intermediate handrails.
Intermediate handrails are required so that an portions of the stairway width
required for egress capacity are within 30 inches (762 rnrn) of a handrail. On
rnonumental stairs, handrails shan be located along the rnost direct path of egress
travel.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.11 Handrails. I 1003.3.3.11.3 Handrail graspability.
1003.3.3.11.3 Handrail graspability.
Handrails with a circular cross section shan have an outside diameter of at least
@ 2001 International Code Council, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Wisconsin Enrolled Conunerical Building Code - 2002
1.25 inches (32 nun) and not greater than 2 inches (51 nun) or shall provide
equivalent graspability. If the handrail is not circular, it shall have a perirneter
dimension of at least 4 inches (102 nun) and not greater than 6.25 inches (159
nun) with a rnaxirnurn cross-section dimension of2.25 inches (57 nun). Edges
shall have a minimurn radius of 0.125 inch (3.2 nun).
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. 11003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.11 Handrails. I 1003.3.3.11.4 Continuity.
1003.3.3.11.4 Continuity.
Handrail-gripping surfaces shall be continuous, without inten-uption by newel
posts or other obstructions.
Exceptions:
1.
Handrails within dwelling units are pennitted to be interrupted
by a newel post at a stair landing.
2.
Within a dwelling unit, the use of a volute, turnout or starting
easing is allowed on the lowest tread.
3.
Handrail brackets or balusters attached to the bottorn surface of
the handrail that do not project horizontally beyond the sides of
the handrail within 1.5 inches (38 nun) of the bottorn of the
handrail shall not be considered to be obstructions.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Buildiug Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. 11003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.11 Handrails. I 1003.3.3.11.5 Handrail extensions.
1003.3.3.11.5 Handrail extensions.
Handrails shall return to a wall, guard or the walking surface or shall be
continuous to the handrail of an adjacent stair flight. Where handrails are not
continuous between flights, the handrails shall extend horizontally at least 12
inches (305 nun) beyond the top riser and continue to slope for the depth of one
tread beyond the bottom riser.
Exceptions:
1.
Handrails within a dwelling unit that is not required to be
accessible need extend only from the top riser to the bottom
riser.
@ 2001 International Code Council, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Wisconsin EmoJled Cornmerica] Building Code - 2002
2.
Ais]e handrails in Group A occupancies in accordance with
Section ]008.]1.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.11 Handrails. I 1003.3.3.11.6 Clearance.
1003.3.3.11.6 Clearance.
Clear space between a handrail and a waJl or other surface shaJl be a rninimurn
of 1.5 inches (38 rnm). A handrail and a waJl or other surface adjacent to the
handrail shaJl be ftee of any sharp or abrasive e]ernents.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.11 Handrails. I 1003.3.3.11.7 Stairway projections.
1003.3.3.11.7 Stairway projections.
Projections into the required width at each handrail shaJl not exceed 4.5 inches
(]]4 rnm) at or below the handrail height. Projections into the required width
shaJl not be lirnited above the rninirnum headroorn height required in Section
]003.3.3.2.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.12 Stairway to roof.
1003.3.3.12 Stairway to roof.
ill buildings four or rnore stories in height above grade, one stairway shaJl extend to the
roof surface, unless the roof has a slope steeper than four units vertical in ]2 units
horizontal (33-percent s]ope). ill buildings without an occupied roof, access to the roof
ftorn the top story shaJl be permitted to be by an alternating tread device.
Wisconsin Enrolled Commercial Building Code I Volume 11 Part B - The IBC, as
Modified by Chapter Comm 621 CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS I SECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS 11003.3 Means of egress components. I 1003.3.3
Stairways. I 1003.3.3.12 Stairway to roof. I 1003.3.3.12.1 Roof access.
1003.3.3.12.1 Roof access.
iþ 2001 International Code Council, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Wisconsin Enrolled Comrnerical Building Code - 2002
Where a stairway is provided to a roof, access to the roof shall be provided
through a penthouse cornplying with Section 1509.2.
Exception: In buildings without an occupied roof, access to the roof shall be
permitted to be a roof hatch or trap door not less than 16 square feet (1.5 rn2)
in area and having a minimum dirnension of2 feet (610 mrn).
@ 2001 International Code Council, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
5000-234
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION AND SAFETY CODE
27.4.4.12.2 Kiosks or similar structures located within the
mall shall be protected with approved fire suppression and
detection devices.
27.4.4.12.3 The minimum horizontal separation between
kiosks, or groups of kiosks, and other structures within the
mallshallbe20ft(6.1m).
27.4.4.12.4 Each kiosk, or group of kiosks, or similar struc-
ture shall have a maximum area of300 ft' (28 m').
27.4.5 Bulk Merchandising Retail Buildings. New bulk mer-
chandising retail buildings exceeding 12,000 ft' (1100 m') in
area shaH comply with the requirements of this chapter, as
modified by 27.4.5.1 through 27.4.5.5.
27.4.5.1 Minimum Story Height. Bulk merchandising retail
buildings shall have a distance of not less than 16 ft (4.9 m)
from the floor to the ceiling, from the floor to the floor above,
or from the floor to the roof of any story.
27.4.5.2 Means of Egress Requirements. All means of egress
shaH be in accordance with Chapter 11 and this chapter. Not
less than 50 percent of the required egress capacity shall be
located independent of the main entrance/exit doors.
27.4.5.3 Storage, Arrangement, Protection, and Quantities of
Hazardous Commodities. The storage, arrangement, protec-
tion, and quantities of hazardous commodities shaH be in ac-
cordance with the applicable portions of the foHowing:
(1) NFPA 13, Standard for the InstalJation of Sprinkler Systems
(2) NFPA30, Flammabk and ConWustibk Liquids Code
(3) NFPA 30B, Code for the Manufacture and Storage of Aerosol
Products
(4) NFPA 230, Standard for the Fire Protection of Storage
(5) NFPA430, Code for the Storage of Liquid and Solid Oxidizers
(6) NFPA432, CodefortheStorageofOrganù:PeroxideFormulations
(7) NFPA 434, Code for the Storage of Pesticides
27.4.5.4 Detection, Alarm, and Commuuications Systems.
27.4.5.4.1 General. Bulk merchandising retail buildinge shaH
be provided with a fire alarm system in accordance with Sec-
tion 55.2.
27.4.5.4.2 Initiation. Initiation of the required fire alarm sys-
tem shall be by means of the required approved automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with 55.2.2(3) and by manual
means in accordance with 55.2.2.1.5 and 55.2.2.1.6.
27.4.5.4.3 Occupant Notification. During aH times that the
building is occupied, the required fire alarm system, once ini-
tiated, shaH perform one of the following functions:
(1) It shall activate a general alarm in accordance with 55.2.3
throughout the building, except a positive alarm se-
quence in accordance with 55.2.3.4 shall be permitted.
(2) It shall activate an alarm signal in a continuously attended
location for the purpose of initiating emergency action by
personnel trained to respond to emergencies. Emergency
action shall be initiated by means of live voice public ad-
dress system announcements originating from the at-
tended location where the alarm signal is received. The
live voice public address system shall be permitted to be
used for other announcements, provided that the emer-
gency use takes precedence over any other use.
(3) In lieu of live voice public address system announce-
ments, any other occupant notification means shaH be
permitted by 55.2.3.
2003 Edition
27.4.5.4.4 Emergency Forces Notification. Emergency forces
notification shaH be provided and shaH include notifying the
foHowing:
(1) Fire department in accordance with 55.2.4
(2) Approved local emergency organization, if provided
27.4.5.5 Extinguishmeut Requirements. Bulk merchandising
retail buildings shaH be protected throughout by an ap-
proved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accor.
dance with Section 55.3 and 55.3.2 and the applicable pro-
visions of the foHowing:
(1) NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
(2) NFPA 30, Flammabk and ConWustibk Liquids Code
(3) NFPA 30B, Code for the Manufacture and Storage of Aerosol
Products
(4) NFPA 230, Standard for the Fire Protection of Storage
27.5 Building Services.
27.5.1 Utilities. Utilities shall comply with the provisions of
Chapter 49, Chapter 52, and Chapter 53.
27.5.2 Heating, Ventilating, and AIr-Conditioning. Heating,
ventilating, and air-conditioning equipment shall comply with
the provisions of Chapter 50 and Chapter 51.
27.5.3 Elevators, Escalators, and Conveyors. Elevators, escala-
tors, and conveyors shall comply with the provisions of Chap-
ter 54.
27.5.4 Rubbish Chutes, Incinerators, and Laundry Chutes.
Rubbish chutes, incinerators, and laundry chutes shall comply
with the provisions of Section 8.17.
27.6 (Reserved)
Chapter 28 Business Occupancies
28.1 General Requirements.
28.1.1 Application.
28.1.1.1 The requirements of this chapter shall apply to the
following:
(1) New buildings, or portions thereof, used as business occu-
pancies
(2) Additions made to, or used as, a business occupancy
(3)*Alterations, modernizations, or renovations of existing
business occupancies
(4) Existing buildings, or portions thereof, upon change of
occupancy to a business occupancy
28.1.1.2 Repairs, renovations, modifications, additions, and
. reconstruction of a business occupancy, and changes of use
including change of occupancy classification to a business oc-
cupancy, shall comply with one of the following:
(1) Provisions of this chapter
(2) Provisions of Chapter 15
28.1.1.3 This chapter shall establish requirements for all
buildings, or portions thereof, used as business occupancies.
28.1.2 Multiple Occupancies.
28.1.2.1 General. All multiple occupancies shall be in accor-
dance with Section 6.2 and 28.1.2. Where there are differences
in the specific requirements in this chapter and provisions for
mixed occupancies or separated occupancies as specified in
BUSINESS OCCUPANCIES
5000-235
6.2.3 and 6.2.4, the requirements of this chapter shall apply.
(See 4.3.2.2.)
28.1.2.2 Combined Business Occupaucies and Parking
Structures.
28.1.2.2.1 The wall separating a parking structure from a
building classified as a business occupancy shall be a fire bar-
rier having a fire resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
28.1.2.2.2 Openings in the fire barrier shall not be re-
quired to be protected with fire protection-rated opening
protectives in enclosed parking structures that are pro-
tected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 55.3 and
55.3.2, or in open parking structures, provided that all of
the following conditions are met:
(1) The openings do not exceed 25 percent of the area of the
fire barrier in which they are located.
(2) The openings are used as a public entrance and for asso-
ciated sidelight functions.
(3) The buildings containing the business occupancy are pro-
tected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 55.3 and
55.3.2.
(4)*Means are provided to prevent spilled fuel from accumu-
lating adjacent to the openings and entering the building.
(5) Physical means are provided to prevent vehicles from be-
ing parked or driven within 10 ft (3 m) of the openings.
(6) The openings are protected as required for a smoke par-
tition in accordance with Section 8.10, with no minimum
fire protection rating required.
28.1.3 Classification of Occupancy. Business occupancies
shall include all buildings and structures, or parts thereof,
with business occupancy, as defined in 6.1.11.
28.1.4 Classification of Hazard of Contents.
28.1.4.1 Hazard of contents shall be classified in accordance
with 6.3.2.
28.1.4.2 Buildings or areas in which high hazard contents are
stored, used, or handled shall comply with Chapter 34.
28.1.5 Minimum Construction Requiremeots. Construction
types and height and area requirements shall be in accor-
dance with all of the following:
(1) Chapter 7, Construction Types and Height and Area Re-
quirements
(2) Chapter 8, Fire-Resistive Materials and Construction
(3) Chapter 13, Encroachments into the Public Right of Way
(4) Chapter 14, Safeguards During Construction
(5) Chapter 31, Occupancies in Special Structures
(6) Chapter 35, Structural Design
(7) Chapter 36, Soils, Foundations, and Retaining Walls
(8) Chapter 37, Exterior Wall Construction
(g) Chapter 38, Roof Assemblies and Roof Structures
(10) Chapter 39, Flood-Resistant Design and Construction
(11) Chapter 40, QualityAssurance During Construction
28.1.6 Occupant Load. The occupant load, in number of
persons for whom means of egress and other provisions are
required, shall be determined on the basis of the occupant
load factors of Table 11.3.1.2 that are characteristic of the
use of the space, or shall be determined as the maximum
probable population of the space under consideration,
whichever is greater.
28.1.7 Accessibility. Accessibility shall be in accordance with
Chapter 12.
28.2 Means of Egress Requirements.
28.2.1 General.
28.2.1.1 All means of egress shall be in accordance with
Chapter 11 and this chapter.
28.2.1.2 If, owing to differences in grade, any street floor
exits are located at points above or below the street or ground
level, such exits shall comply with the provisions for exits from
upper floors or floors below the street floor.
28.2.1.3 Multiple floors shall comply with 28.2.1.3.1 and
28.2.1.3.2.
28.2.1.3.1 Where two or more floors below the street floor
are occupied for business use, the same stairs or ramps shall be
permitted to serve each floor.
28.2.1.3.2 An open stairway or inside open ramp shall be
permitted to serve as a component of the required means of
egress system from no more than one floor level below the
street floor.
28.2.1.4 Floor levels below the street floor used only for stor-
age, heating, and other service equipmen~ and not subject to
business occupancy, shall have means of egress in accordance
with Chapter 30.
28.2.2 Means of Egress Components.
28.2.2.1 General. Means of egress components shall be lim-
ited to the types described in 28.2.2.2 through 28.2.2.12.
28.2.2.2 Doors.
28.2.2.2.1 Doors complying with 11.2.1 shall be permitted.
28.2.2.2.2* Locks complying with Exception No.2 to
11.2.1.5.1 shall be permitted only on principal entrance/exit
doors.
28.2.2.2.3 (Reserved)
28.2.2.2.4 Delayed-egress locks complying with 11.2.1.6.1
shall be permitted.
28.2.2.2.5 Access-controlled egress doors complying with
11.2.1.6.2 shall be permitted.
28.2.2.2.6 Where horizontal or vertical security grilles or
doors are used as part of the required means of egress from a
tenant space, such grilles or doors shall comply with Excep-
tionNo.2tol1.2.1.4.1.
28.2.2.2.7 (Reserved)
28.2.2.2.8 Revolving doors complying with 11.2.1.10 shall be
permitted.
28.2.2.3 Stairs.
28.2.2.3.1 Stairs complying with 11.2.2 shall be permitted.
28.2.2.3.2 Spiral stairs complying with 11.2.2.2.3 shall be
permitted.
28,2.2.4 Smokeproof Enclosures. Smokeproof enclosures
complying with 11.2.3 shall be permitted.
28.2.2.5 Horizontal Exits. Horizontal exits complying with
11.2.4 shall be permitted.
2003 Edition
MEANS OF EGRESS
5000-117
orce required to operate the door in the direction of
travel is not more than 30 Ibf (133 N) to set the door
oòon and is not more than 15lbf (67 N) to close the
or open it to the minimum required width.
door is operable with a force of not more than 50 lbf
N) when a force of 250 lbf (1110 N) is applied per-
icularly to the door adjacent to the operaòng device.
door assembly complies with the fire protecòon rat-
and, where rated, is self-closing or automaòc closing
eans of smoke detecòon in accordance with 11.2.1.8,
is installed in accordance with NFPA 80, Standard for
Doors and Fire WIndows.
General. Stairs used as a component in the means of
all conform to the general requirements of Secòon ILl
e special requirements of 11.2.2.
The requirement of 11.2.2.1 shaU not apply to aisl.< stairs
in Chapter 16.
2.2 Dùnensional Criteria.
2.2.1 Standard Stairs. Dimensional criteria for stairs shall
in accordance with Table 11.2.2.2.1.
Ie 11.2.2.2.1 Dimensional Criteria
Feature
Dimensional Criteria
nimum width clear of all
obstrucòons, except
projecòons not more than
4\4 in. (ll.4cm) at or
below handrail height on
each side
Maximum height of risers
Minimnm height of risers
Minimum tread depth
Minimum headroom
Maximum height between
landings
Landing
44 in. (1l2cm);36in.
(91 em) where totai
occupant load of all stories
served by stairways is fewer
than 50
7 in. (17.8cm)
4 in. (10.2 em)
II in. (27.9 cm)
6ft8in. (203 em)
12 ft (3.7 m)
See 11.2.1.3 and 11.2.1.4.3
Exception: The requirement of 11.2.2.2.1 shaU not apply to indU5-
trial equiPment access areas as otherwise provided in 29.2.5.3.
11.2.2.2.2 Curved Stairs. Curved stairs shall be permitted as a
component in a means of egress, provided that the depth of
tread is not less than 11 in. (27.9 em) at a point 12 in.
(30.5 em) from the narrower end of the tread and the smallest
radius is not less than twice the stair width.
11.2.2.2.3 Spiral Stairs.
11.2.2.2.3.1 Where specifically permitted for individual occu-
pancies by Chapter 16 through Chapter 30, spiral stairs shall
be permitted as a component in a means of egress in accor-
dance with 11.2.2.2.3.2 through 11.2.2.2.3.3.
11.2.2.2.3.2 Spiral stairs shall be permitted, provided the fol-
lowing criteria are met:
(1) Riser heights shall not exceed 7 in. (17.8 em).
(2) The stairway shall have a tread depth of not less than 11 in.
(27.9 cm) for a portion of the stairway width sufficient to
provide egress capacity for the occupant load served in ac-
cordance with 11.3.3.1.
(3) At the outer side of the stairway, an additional 10\4 in.
(26.7 cm) of width shall be provided clear to the other
handrail, and this width shall not be included as part of
the required egress capacity.
(4) Handrails complying with 11.2.2.4 shall be provided on
both sides of the spiral stairway.
(5) The inner handrail shall be located within 24 in.
(61.0 cm), measured horizontally, of the point where a
tread depth of not less than 11 in. (27.9 em) is provided.
(6) The turn of the stairway shall be such that descending
users have the outer handrail at their right side.
11.2.2.2.3.3 Where the occupant load served does not exceed
three, spiral stairs shall be permitted, provided that the follow-
ing criteria are met:
(1) The clear width of the stairs shall be not less than 26 in.
(66 em).
(2) The height of risers shall not exceed 9\4 in. (24.1 cm).
(3) The headroom shall be not less than 6ft6 in. (198cm).
(4) Treads shall have a depth not less than 7\4 in. (1.9.1 em) at
a point 12 in. (30.5 cm) from the narrower edge.
(5) All treads shall be identical.
(6) Handrails shall be provided on both sides of the stairway.
11.2.2.2.4* Winders. Where specified in Chapter 16 through
Chapter 30, winders shall be permitted in stairs. Winders shall
have a tread depth of not less than 6 in. (15.2 cm) and a tread
depth of not less than 11 in. (27.9 em) at a point 12 in.
(30.5 cm) from the narrowest edge.
11.2.2.3 Stair Details.
11.2.2.3.1 Construction.
11.2.2.3.1.1 All stairs serving as required means of egress
shall be of permanent fuœd construction, unless they are stairs
serving seaòng that is designed to be reposiòoned in accor-
dance with 16.2.2.3.1.
11.2.2.3.1.2 All components of a stairway, including plat-
forms and landings, shall be constructed of materials consis-
tent with the types permitted for floor construcòon, based on
the type of construction of the building, except that wood
handrails shall be permitted for all types of construcòon. All
walking surfaces of a stairway shall be capable of supporòng
the loads specified in Chapter 35.
11.2.2.3.2 Landings. Stairs shall have landings at door open-
ings. Stairs and intermediate landings shall conònue with no de--
crease in width along the direcòon of egress travel. In new build-
ings, every landing shall have a dimension measured in the
direcòon of travel that is not less than the width of the stair.
Exception No.1: Landings shaU not be required to exceed 4 ft
(122 em) in the direction of travel, provÙùd that the stair has a
straight run.
Exception No.2: WIthin a dweUing unit, a door at the top of a stair
shaU be permitted to open directly at a stai~ provided that the door does
not swing over the stair and the do", serves an area with an occupant
load of fewer than 50 persons.
11.2.2.3.3* Tread and Landing Surfaces. Stair treads and land-
ings shall be solid, without perforations, and ITee of projec-
tions or lips that could trip stair users. If not vertical, risers
shall be permitted to slope under the tread at an angle not to
2003 Edman
5000-118
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION AND SAFETY CODE
exceed 30 degrees from vertical, but the permitted projection
of the nosing shall not exceed 11-2 in. (3.8 cm).
Exæpti.Ón: The requirement of 11.2.2.3.3 shall not apply to noncom-
bustible grated stair treads and landings as prrwided in 16.2.2.3.2,
21.2.2.3.1, and 29.2.2.3.1.
11.2.2.3.4* Tread Slope. Tread slope shall not exceed v.in./ft
(2 cm/m) (a slope of I in 48).
11.2.2.3.5* Riser Height and Tread Depth. Riser height shall be
measured as the vertical distance between tread nosings. Tread
depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes
of the foremost projection of adjacent treads, and at a right angle
to the tread's leading edge, but shall not include bevelled or
rounded tread surfuces that slope more than 20 degrees (a slope
of I in 2.75). At tread nosings, such bevelling or roundmg shall
not exceed 1-2 m. (1.3 em) in horizontal dimension.
11.2.2.3.6 Dimensional Unifonuity. There shall be no varia-
tion in excess of 0/\6 in. (0.5 cm) in the depth of adjacent
treads or in the height of adjacent risers, and the tolerance
between the largest and smallest riser or between the largest
and smallest tread shall not exceed % in. (I cm) in any flight.
Exception: Where the bottom riser adjoins a sloping public way, wall<,
or driveway having an established grade and serving as a landing, a
variation in height of the bottom riser not to exceed 3 in. in every 3ft
(7.6 em in every 91 em) of stairway width shall be permitted.
11.2.2.4* Guards and Handrails.
11.2.2.4.1 Handrails.
11.2.2.4.1.1 Stairs and ramps shaH have handrails on both
sides unless otherwise permitted in 11.2.2.4.1.6.
11.2.2.4.1.2 In addition, handrails shall be provided within
30 in. (76 cm) of all portions of the required egress width of
new stairs.
11.2.2.4.1.3 Where intermediate handrails are provided in
accordance with 11.2.2.4.1.2, the minimum clear width be-
tween handrails shaH be 20 in. (510 mm).
11.2.2.4.1.4 The required egress width shall be provided
along the natural path of travel.
11.2.2.4.1.5 1£ a single step or a ramp is part of a curb that
separates a sidewalk from a vehicular way, it shall not be re-
quired to have a handrail.
11.2.2.4.1.6 Stairs within dwelling units and within guest
rooms, and ramps within dwelling units and guest rooms, shaH
be permitted to have a handrail on one side only.
11.2.2.4.2* Continnity. Required guards and handrails shall
continue for the full length of each flight of stairs. At turns of .
new stairs, inside handrails shall be continuous between
flights at landings.
11.2.2.4.3 Projections. The design of guards and handrails and
the hardware for attaching handrails to guards, balusters, or walls
shall be such that there are no projections that might engage
loose clothmg. Openings in guartis shall be designed to prevent
loose clothing from becommg wedged in such openings.
11.2.2.4.4* Handrail Details.
(A)* Handrails on stairs and ramps shall have a consistent
height of not less than 34in. (86cm) and not more than 38 in.
(96 cm) above the surface of the stair tread or ramp walking
2003 Ed;';on
surface, measured vertically to the top of the rail from the
leading edge of the stair tread or the ramp walking surface.
Exception No. 1: The height of required handrails thatformpart of a
guard in stairways not required to be accessible to persom with disabili-
ties shall be permitted to exceed 38 in. (96 em) but shall not exceed
42 in. (107 em), measured vertically to the top of the rail from the
leading edge of the tread.
Exception No.2: Additional handrails that are lower or higher than
the main handrail shall be permitted.
(B) Handrails shall provide a clearance of not less than
2% in. (57 mm) between the handrail and the wall to which
it is fastened.
(C)* Handrails shall have a circular cross section with an out-
side diameter of not less than 1 y, in. (3.2 cm) and not more
than 2 in. (5 cm).
Exception: Any shape, other than circular, with a perimeter dimen-
sion of not i£ss than 4 in. (10.2 em), but not more than 6'/4 in.
(15.9 em), and with the largest cross-sectional dimension not more
than 2'/4 in. (5.7 em) shall be permitted, provided that graspable edges
are rounded so as to prrwide a radius of not less than 'Ie in. (0.3 em).
(D) Handrails shall be continuously graspable along their
entire length.
ExceptWn: Handrail brackets or balusters attached to the bottom sur-
face of the handrail shall not be comidered to be obstructions to grasp-
ability, provided that the following criteria are met:
(1) They do not project horizontally beyond the sides of the handrail
within a vertical clearance of 1'12 in. (3.75 em) of the bottom
su>face of the handrail.
(2) For each '12 in. (1.3 em) ofadditionalhandrailPerimeterdimen-
siongreaterthan 4 in. (10 em), as specified in (1), the vertical
clearance dimension of 1'12 in. (3.75 em) shall be permitted to be
reduced lry 'Ii; in. (0.3 em).
(3) They ho:ueedges witJ¡ a radius of not less than 0.01 in. (0.25 mm).
(4) They obstruct not in excess of 20 percent of the handrail limgth if
the graspable perimeter dimension is i£ss than 5'12 in. (140 mm).
(E) Handrail ends shall return to the wall or floor or shall
terminate at newel posts.
(F) Handrails that are not continuous between flights shall
extend horizontally, at the required height, not less than 12 in.
(30.5 cm) beyond the top riser and continue to slope for a
depth of one tread beyond the bottom riser.
Exception: Wzthin dwelling units, the handrail shall be permitted to
extend, at the required height, to points directly above the top and
bottom risers.
11.2.2.4.5 Guard Details.
(A) The height of guards required in 11.1.8 shall be mea,
sured verticaHy to the top of the guard from the surface adja-
cent thereto.
(B) Guards shaH be not less than 42 in. (107 cm) high.
Exception: The requirement of 11.2.2.4.5(B) shall not apply where
otherwise provided in 16.2.11.
(C)* Open guards shaH have intermediate rails or an orna-
mental pattern such that a sphere 4 in. (10.1 em) in diameter
shall not be capable of passing through any opening up to a
height of34 in. (86 em).
MEANS OF EGRESS
5000-119
-Exception No.1: The triangular openings þrmed by the riser, tread,
and bottom ekment of a guardrail at the open side of a stair shall be of
such size that a sPhere 6 in. (15.2 em) in diam£ter sholl not be capable
of passing through the triangular opening.
Exception No.2: In detentwn and correctional occupancies, in in-
dmtrial occupancies, and in storage occupancies, the clear distance
between intermediate rail>, m£asured at right angles to the rail>, shall
not exceed 21 in. (53.3 em).
11.2.2.5 Enclosure and Protection of Stairs.
11.2.2.5.1 Enclosures. All inside stairs serving as an exit or exit
component shall be enclosed in accordance with 11.1.3.2. All
other inside stairs shall be protected in accordance with Sec-
tion S.12.
11.2.2.5.2* Exposures. Where nonrated walls or unprotected
openings enclose the exterior of a stairway, and the walls or
openings are exposed by other parts of the building at an
angle of less than 180 degrees, tbe building enclosure walls
within 10 ft (3 m) horizontaily of the nonrated wall or unpro-
tected opening shall be constructed as required for staÜway
enclosures, including opening protectives. Construction shall
extend vertically from the ground to a point 10 ft (3 m) above
the topmost landing of the stairs or to the roofline, whichever
is lower.
Exception No.1: The fire resistance rating of the separation exteni£.
ing 10 ft (3 171) from thestairssholl not be required to exceed 1 hour
where openings have not less than a 3/<-hour fire protection rating.
Exception No.2: Separation shall not be required between corridors
and outside stairs, provided that the following conditions are m£t:
(1) The building, including corridors and stairs, shall be prowcted
throughout by an approved, supervised automali< sprinlúer sys-
tem in accordance with NFPA 13, Standard for the Installotion of
Sprinkler Systems, or, where aPPlicable, NFPA I3R, Standard for
the Installatwn of Sprinkler Systems in Residential Occupancies
up to and Including Four Stories in Height.
(2) The corridors shall comPly with 11.1.3.1.
(3) The corridors shall be connected on each end to an outside stair
complying with 11.2.2.7.
(4) At any location in the ayrridor where a change in direction exceed-
ing 45 degrees occurs, a clear opening to the exterior of not less
than 35 ft' (3.25 1712), locawd to resmct the accumulation of
smoke and toxic gases, or an outside stair shall be provided.
11.2.2.5.3* Usable Space. There shall be no enclosed, usa.ble
space within an exit enclosure, including under stairs, nor
shall any open space within the enclosure he used for any
purpose that has the potential to interfere with egress.
Exception: Enclosed, mable space shall be permitæd under stairs,
provided that the space is separated from the stair enclosure by the same
fire resistance rating as the exit enclosure. Entrance to such enclosed,
usable space shall not be from within the stair enclosure. (See also
11.1.3.2.3.)
11.2.2.6* Stairway Marking.
11.2.2.6.1 Stairs serving five or more stories shall be provided
Mth ~pecial signage within the enclosure at each floor landing.
The Slgnage shall indicate the floor level, the terminus of the top
and bottom of the stair enclosure, and the identification of the
:;:"r ~nclosure. The signage also shall state the floor level of, and
. e dIrection to, exit discharge. The signage shall be located in-
;lde .theenclosure approximately 5 ft (1.5 m) above the floor
I, andmg m a position that is visible when the door is in the open
~,
¡¡;,
¡¡
~
"""'"
or closed position. The signage shall comply with 11.10.8.1 and
11.10.8.2. The floor level designation shall also be tactile in accor-
dance with ICC/ ANSI AI17.1, American National Standard for Ac-
cessihle and Usable Buildings and Facilities.
11.2.2.6.2 Wherever an enclosed stair requires travel in an
upward direction to reach the level of exit discharge, special
signs with directional indicators showing the direction to the
level of exit discharge shall be provided at each floor level
landing from which upward direction of travel is required.
Such signage shall comply with 11.10.8.1 and 11.10.8.2 and be
visible when the door is in the open or closed position.
ExceptionNo.I: Therequirementof11.2.2.6.2shallnotapplywhere
signs required by 11.2.2.6.1 are provided.
Exception No.2: Stairs extinding not more than one story below the
level of exit discharge where the exit discharge is clearly obviom sholl
not be subject to the requirement of 11.2.2.6.2.
11.2.2.6.3 The sign shall be painted or stenciled on the wall
or on a separate sign securely attached to the wall.
11.2.2.6.4 The stairway identification letter shall be placed at
the top of the sign in minimum I-in. (2.5-cm) high lettering in
accordance with 11.10.8.2.
11.2.2.6.5 The provision of roof access or lack ofroof access
shall be designated by the words "roof access" or "no roof
access" and placed under the stairway identification letter. Let-
tering shall be a minimum of I in. (2.5 cm) high and in accor-
dance with 11.10.8.2.
11.2.2.6.6 The floor level shall be placed in the middle of the
sign in minimum 5-in. (12.7-cm) high numbers and in accor-
dance with 11.10.8.2. Mezzanine levels shall have the letter
"M" or other appropriate identification letter preceding the
floor level number, while basement levels shall have the letter
"B" or other appropriate identification letter preceding the
floor level number.
11.2.2.6.7 The lower and upper terminus of the stairway shall
be placed at the bottom of the sign in minimum I-in. (2.5-cm)
high letters and in accordance with 11.10.8.2.
11.2.2.7 Special Provisions for Outside Stairs.
11.2.2.7.1 Access. Where approved by the authority havingju-
risdiction, outside stairs shall be permitted to lead to roofs of
other sections of a building or an adjoining building where
the construction is fire resistive and there is a continuous and
safe means of egress from the roof. (See also 11. 7.6.)
11.2.2.7.2* VISual Protection. Outside stairs shall be arranged
to avoid any impediments to the use of the stairs by persons
having a fear of high places. For stairs more than three stories
in height, any arrangement intended to meet this require-
ment shall be not less than 4 ft (1.2 m) in height.
11.2.2.7.3 Separation and Protection of Outside Stairs. Out-
side stairs shall be separated from the interior of the building
by construction with the fire resistance rating required for en-
closed stairs with fIXed or self-closing opening protectives.
This construction shall extend vertically from the ground to a
point 10 ft (3 m) above the topmost landing of the stairs or to
the roofIine, whichever is lower, and to a point not less than
10 ft (3 m) horizontally.
Exception No.1: Outside stairs serving an exterior exit access balcony
that has two remow outside stairways or ramps shall be permitted to be
unprotecwd.
2003 Ed;t;on
I 'Y"'/1"" "'"
9202314518
HGM ARCHITECTURE
PAGE 01
HGM
ARCHITECTL:RE inc,
803 North Main Street, PO Box 976 Oshkosh, WI 54903-0976
Phone (920) 231-<5950 Fa.,«920) 231-4518
Facsimile Transmittal
TO:
fdl"/&4? ;1/p &
COMPANY: c::/~ ff //S/¿.:s ;:..
FAX #: 9p.ð ~ ;;;":3 b oJ 5CJ.$ £/
RE: 4õ/""'4/;~ &tf~ O/llL-
DATE: .ø~ 1. :lßo6"
FROM: ~¡;, IJJ. A'".~
~
PAGES:
(Inducting Cover Sheet)
REMARKS:
- Urgent
- ForReview
- Please Comment
- Reply
- For Your Use
COMMENTS: ?ø~ rp~~~ /f';5/9,P: $$ ~ ~
~ ~/è9 ,Þ~,tlh~ d'd'/é'~ nMv'/'¡rh
..
05/09/2005 13: Ø1
9202314518
HGM ARCHITECTURE
PAGE 02
...ø8COll&ln
""-.............-
APPLICATION FOR REVIEW PETITION FOR VARIANCE
..complete all pages-
This page may be utilized lor fax appoinlments
Complete and indicate date plans will be In our office
Safety & Buildings Division
Bureau of Integrated Servl<:es
1. SiteiFacillty Information
Complete for confirmed appointments":
Transaction 10:
Building Name: Appl"al.<1a/ G~t.tp'OJ7P
Number end Street /8 5" Omteð I?ðdtl Zjo: 5t¡&¡O,
Commerce Sne Number (ff known):
I Legal DescrIption: Lbf 4- ;t;;~ /"';0 /k~ .æ7-/.I
Counryot. lA//nn~ha.9ð
18Ciry ()VilloSe ()Townot l'1,hkt':J'!:fr
Previous Related Trans. 10:
Assigned Revlowor:
Assigned Offiça:
Review Slart Date":
"Submittal mUll b. r_ived in the office of the appointment no
law than 2 workinG daYS before the confirmed -.,.,olntment
4. Plan Review Slatull .
0 Plan submillBd With petition Plan previouSly review by (please enclose a copy of review ..nor)
0 Plan Wi" be submitted alter petition de18nnlnation 0 Slate 0 MuniCipality
0 ReqU",&,""lon . 'L..Æ.
.Othe~ '/') &m,t Ø¿#:?wed ""7"'W ái~ Approved 0 Held 0 Denied
Commerce Transaction Nu bar
under this B"tition for variance,
1/. ~ $4'f/<.
'/"6/';? it?
~.
~..~ae
addressed by the cccle section
/ ~ (í')~
H 'e .f1l1Ñ~)
8. Ust attachments 10 be considered as part of tf1e pedtione~$ statements (Le., model cccle sections. test reports. research articies. expert
opinion, previously approved variances. pictures. plans. sketches. etc.).
[;:2n...s Signature .¡;-/'
- ~ (¡/ Crd
Date
5/1/c) 5
Complete ottoer side for variaI\C4 requests from Comm 20-25 and Comm 61-115
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO DEPT. OF COMMERCE
Attach check here.
TOTAL AMOUNT DUE
$ 6ðð~~
::;8 ).9~90.X (R.OIi02) THIS FORM IS VALID ONLY FROM 07/01/02 TO 01/01104
24
05/09/2005 13: 01
.
9202314518
HGM ARCHITECTURE
PAGE 03
EpV~ ~ or 5;,4fr .
I. þ~¡¿ #.m~~ ~ fiJd/adt!:I<-S /.. 4tR4
~ /Iõ~ S;?#)1~¿J:5 ~ /4; ~ wid /H~
/'6'~"¿ ¡f/~ &.I~-=,/~6 ~r /p-;f'//!~
6ß1pJ1ef' 9~ P.?s;~;.-
~. ~/~tI!!r~ Æ.uH7!~d:. M~ ¿;ib,lZ:.. i 7/-,~s 5~
¿;?aÆ 'ØØtk ~. t:Vof wd-' t/)~~
c..:rd ~ ~/h-h ~ 5/a4 #~4I¿/j ~
IV5 ¿ D.. .s
'3. 5/~ ~ ~ 'þr~rÞþ1:> g7
::zy ?¿ :;;'1? ~ . jö/~ :;2. J? ~ / :;"'M-S .
7/1ö ;!~ "IJO~~~ :S~ Cd-?? V"d#/ ~
~ ~ ß&Hn ~.r,J r; :27', 5, mlš
¿¿nl/ð"'*,;'~ /"7 ¿:~ ~ þ'~~ ~
~ /!~¿lJ!i!Þ/'Añ7s a-U- ~~,ØtnA!-
/~~";I'PrL~ ~ ¿, -r1~;d /'/sd'A !ls/?!¡T.
/ p,~d-- dG..s ¡/Á~ ~o ~-nJ- ¿J~ ~ /~ #~
,ðäe/d#J75 ~ ~ ~ 2.. /86"'1/1'7 ~ 70 Æ
é~ ~or~) h¿J Þ'4/'¡/~ ~';;¿6e
~~~. rÆe. "3~ 7-V9 II J</s:t'r U;?~¿7 ~
~~a:? . &:-~ (> pi- Co~ />1 #'.i-/~II~
/4 )9.Çð ~ ;I'Þ,z.. éÞ /T1~¡?rc/d ø~~~. 7M. dfN/~
/7f¿;6 ~ //¿ a<-Ø $ ~ ~ Ø/I ) ¡C; ¡1 m
¿f1~t!!dmL ~ //,7 ~ ¿:ð~~ ~ Cð,d¿
~ /)~r,ø~ ~ 5"1'~ kðS 'bC/;r:é.
NISNO~SI,^ 'HSO~HSO :::::"":;:';":0;:::=;::.
avo~ O~rfO 9se' . .
NOI1V^ONJ~ J~I3.J~ ~ ..n""",....~"' ~
JNO dnO~Ð lVSIV1!ddV WÐH i ~ "4 Õ
~ jri ~
"EXHIBIT A"
! I I
- I: I
~ .. .
htD
0 ++ .
avo~ O~I^IO
. I
I ~
f
I
~ ~
l~
I
,
. ,
.~
J
, ~
\~
I
~
J
~
II
{.
,
I
,
I
I¡;
,M
I
I
I.~
"
z ..
j~
0. -
¡d
¡¡; .¡¡
i
ï
í
¡
i
.
¡
,
.
¿~
¿
-n
Kurt C. Kielisch
375 City Center - Suite A
Oshkosh, WI 6490t
920-233-9836
Fax: 920-233-0526
March 24, 2005
James J. Groff
HGM Architecture, Inc.
805 North Main Street
P.O. Box 0976
Oshkosh, WI 54903-0976
Dear James:
Thank you for your services on the code viDlations and estimates that will be needed to convert the
house at 1856 Omro Road, Oshkosh, tfom a residence to a small commercial office. I am presently
working on securing contractors for estimates on the conversion costs. Also, enclosed is my concept
of the new office building that would meet the ADA requirements for the bathroDm, add a break
room and Dther changes to make the office both functional and compliant. This design is for your
review to see ifit would pass the building requirements for a small commercial use building. Please
get back to me with your observations as-soon-as possible.
I am presently awaiting the result of the zoning committee's approval and then the common council
vote on our rezoning request ITom R -1 to C2-PD. The iIútiaI meeting with the zoning department
head went exceptionally well, lasting a whole 10 minutes. He essentially stated that they already
IODked intD the property and its future use including how the DOT intersection redevelopment will
affect the property and concluded that they would approve a C2.PD zoning change. He assured me
that the only problem that could stall that change would be a neighbor protest. I took care of that
by contacting the only non-commercial neighbor who was thrilled I was asking for the change,
promised no hassle ITom him and volunteered that he should join me and get his property changed
too. So, it would appear that the zoning change request will be granted, but we will know for
certain April 5th (zoning committee) and April 15th (common council).
I am not certain when the building inspection department should be approached about approval of
the changes and request for a variance of the steps. Could you please advise me on that issue. It
is our desire to start the reconstruction ASAP and get in the office no later than mid-June, earlier if
we can. I gain possession of the property March 31".
Thank you again for your services and expertise. I look forward to your continued service assisting
us through this process.
Oshkoè City,Assessor's Office
Page 1 of 1
General Info
Akanda
Home
Search Records
Exit
Configure
Map
Select Parcel
@Yes
View Area
0 County
01 Mile
01/2 Mile
0 1/4 Mile
0 500 Feet
Select setting
then click on
map.
Oshkosh Tax Map
*Note: The
buildings
may not
appear in
their exact
locations.
Site Design Copyright 1999-2000 Akanda Solutions, LLc. All rights reserved.
..
http://www.ci.oshkosh.wi.us/ assessor/ProcessSearch.asp ?cmd=GetTaxMap&p 1 = 161 0870400&cp=6&tp=7
3/31/05