Appeal 33547

: R311.7.10.1 Spiral stairways

That’s the alternate from BCG 96-12. The code section is R311.7.10.1

The stair must have at least 6 feet, 6 inches of headroom as measured vertically from a plane between the leading edges of adjacent treads.

To allow the existing non-conforming spiral stairs to remain with a reduced headroom clearance from the code minimum.

Modify the existing overhead framing by removing a portion from the bottom of the wood beam above the lowest stair tread to increase headroom to a minimum of 6’-2”. The beam is substantially oversized for the maximum load, so it will not be compromised structurally by the reduction. .

The accessory structure was designed and built with the intention that it be a habitable space with a 2nd story sleeping area, and it was approved for occupation by BDS Inspections in 2019. Beginning that same year, the space was used as a registered accessory short term rental until a required review by Property Compliance found several issues that needed resolution to allow it to comply with all sleeping room requirements. During the field inspection to verify compliance, the inspector discovered that the previously approved stair was constructed and approved without the required headroom. BDS allows special exceptions to stairway headroom requirements in some circumstances per the Brochure 9 (Converting Attics, Basements and Garages to Living Space), and we are asking that those be extended to this situation. The modifications will provide 6'2" of head clearance for the usable portion of the spiral staircase. The outermost edges will not realistically (maybe substantially) interfere with the headspace of individuals walking up or down the stairs.