Interpretation #7659

Published October 16, 2015

Original Request

Code Version: 2014
Code: BUILDING
Code Description
Chapter
Section: 420
Topic: Group home occupancy

Question

Two questions. First, does a 6 bed group home for kids count as R-3 or R-4? Second question, relating to section 420, if the home for 6 children has a 13D sprinkler system and full fire alarm system, does it need fire rated walls and floors?

Answer Published 10/16/2015 at 2:47 PM

Question 1: R-4, assuming the group home is as defined by
the code.

Question 2: Section 420 is not applicable because the
occupancy class is R-4.

Commentary

Look at sections 310.5 and 310.6 to determine which Occupancy Code applies to a specific application when applying the Building Code. If there is a question, a discussion should be had with the appropriate authority having jurisdiction.