Interpretation #7698
Published January 13, 2016
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2014
- Code
- BUILDING
- Code Description
- Chapter
- Section
- 1029.1
- Topic
- EERO in R-2
Question
Is it the intent of Section 1029.1, by deleting the exception allowing emergency escape and rescue of an R-2 sleeping area from a screened lanai, to disallow escaping onto the dwelling unit's private open lanai or porch? Or does the dwelling unit's private lanai or porch qualify for exception #2 if it leads to the components listed for that exception?
Answer Published 01/13/2016 at 8:44 AM
While we went back to the FBC-B 2004 and could not find
the exception referred to as deleted by the requester, the
FBC-R contains such an exception that is the codification of
a Declaratory Statement by the Florida Building Commission.
1029.1 refers to R-2; Exception 2 refers to 1019 Egress
Balconies. The DEC Statement to allow use of screen porches
and lanais as an allowable path of egress applies to the
first floor of an R-3 occupancy. The Building Official may
extend the logic to R-2 if they feel it is appropriate.
1019.3 Openness.
The long side of an egress balcony shall be at least 50
percent open, and the open area above the guards shall be so
distributed as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or
toxic gases.
the exception referred to as deleted by the requester, the
FBC-R contains such an exception that is the codification of
a Declaratory Statement by the Florida Building Commission.
1029.1 refers to R-2; Exception 2 refers to 1019 Egress
Balconies. The DEC Statement to allow use of screen porches
and lanais as an allowable path of egress applies to the
first floor of an R-3 occupancy. The Building Official may
extend the logic to R-2 if they feel it is appropriate.
1019.3 Openness.
The long side of an egress balcony shall be at least 50
percent open, and the open area above the guards shall be so
distributed as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or
toxic gases.
Commentary
None