Interpretation #7666

Published October 16, 2015

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Original Request

Code Version
2014
Code
BUILDING
Code Description
Chapter
Section
C405 of Energy Conservati
Topic
Parking garage lighting

Question

Is it the intent of Energy Conservation, Table C405.5.2(2) to define "Parking garage - garage area" as interior lighting, even though a garage is 40 percent open to the outside? If yes, does this then mandate all the C405.2 (Mandatory) interior lighting controls?

Answer Published 10/16/2015 at 4:47 PM

Yes, for lighting purposes, these are considered interior
spaces. Both Tables C405.5.2(1) and C405.5.2(2) contain
provisions for parking garages. Even if considered an open
parking garage, lighting is needed for night operations, if
nothing else.

Lighting controls may be exempted under certain exceptions
for security, which may also include eye adjustment, such as
when leaving a dark area and entering a bright, sunlit one.
These exceptions are found in sections 405.2.1 through 405.5.

Commentary

None