Interpretation #6621

Published September 04, 2010

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Original Request

Code Version
2004
Code
BUILDING
Code Description
Building
Chapter
10
Section
1009.11
Topic
Handrail removal

Question

Is it the intent of this section to forbid the removal of a handrail at the front steps of a church?

Answer Published 09/04/2010 at 3:05 PM

Yes if the building was permitted under the Florida Building
Code 2004. Otherwise the wrong code is being applied. If
they are renovating or modifying the entrance you must begin
with the current Florida Building Code Existing (FBCE) and
refer to the building code in effect at the time the
building was permitted.

Commentary

If this is a monumental stair, then the code in effect at the time of permitting had specific requirements on the placement of handrails.