Interpretation #6654
Published March 22, 2011
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2007
- Code
- RESIDENT
- Code Description
- Residential
- Chapter
- 3
- Section
- 311.4.2
- Topic
Question
Is it the intent of Section R311.4.2 to require a 36" clear opening width or is a smaller clear opening approved
Answer Published 03/22/2011 at 9:01 AM
No, the section does not specify any clear opening size. The
assumption is that if a 36" wide door leaf is provided there
will be adequate egress capacity.
assumption is that if a 36" wide door leaf is provided there
will be adequate egress capacity.
Commentary
Although the code is silent on the exact opening size, the
intent appears to be to provide a 32" net-clear opening when
the door is open at a 90 degree angle. a standard 36"x80"
swing door with a 36" door leaf is the minimum size allowed.