Building Officials Association of Florida
Protecting Lives and Property since 1953

Interpretation #6734

Published May 31, 2011

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Original Request

Code Version
2007
Code
BUILDING
Code Description
Building
Chapter
10
Section
1004.7
Topic
Occupant Load

Question

Is it the intent of code to include the area of a basketball court within the total seating capacity of the space when the area is to be exclusively used for basketball and fixed seating bleachers are provided?

Answer Published 05/31/2011 at 8:51 AM

Yes.

Commentary

Even though the building is proposed to be used for basketball, over time it could be used for other functions. Occupant load calculations should include the bleachers seats plus the floor area with the bleachers in the open position at 7 sq. ft. per occupant, or the floor area with the bleachers in the closed position at 7 square feet per occupant. The larger of the two calculations determines the occupant load.