Appeal 33610
Appeal Summary
Status: decision rendered
Appeal ID: 33610
Submission Date: 12/6/24 1:57 PM
Hearing Date: 12/18/24
Case #: R-002
Appeal Type: Building
Project Type: residential
Building/Business Name:
Appeal Involves: other: to leave existing structure (stairs) as is
Proposed use: Stairs to basement
Appeal Information Sheet
Appeal item 1
| Code Section | ORSC R311.7.5.1 |
|---|---|
| Requires | The riser height shall be not more than 8 inches (203 mm). The riser height shall be measured vertically between leading edges of the adjacent treads. The greatest riser height within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm). Risers shall be vertical or sloped from the underside of the nosing of the tread above at an angle not more than 30 degrees (0.51 rad) from the vertical. At open risers, openings located more than 30 inches (762 mm), as measured vertically, to the floor or grade below shall not permit the passage of a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere. Exceptions: 1.The opening between adjacent treads is notlimited on spiral stairways. 2.The riser height of spiral stairways shall be in accordance with Section R311.7.10.1. |
| Code Modification or Alternate Requested | Forgiveness in riser height for the last two steps. To be left in a as-in, existing condition. |
| Proposed Design | No proposed design - to be left as-is, existing condition The concrete steps leading down into the basement are a part/built-in to the foundation. I have had a few inspectors come out and say they are worried for me to alter the steps are they are more than likely structural. For me to make all the risers the same height, I would have to alter the steps which means altering the foundation of the house. Pictures are provided as a visual reference. |
| Reason for alternative | The solid concrete steps leading down into the basement are a part/built-in to the foundation. They can not be altered/added to unless they were grinded out. I have had a few inspectors come out and say they are worried for me to alter the steps are the stairs are more than likely structural. For me to make all the risers the same height, I would have to alter the steps which means altering the foundation and structure of the house. |
Appeal Decision
Riser height variation of 2 inches: Denied. The proposal does not provide equivalent life safety. Appellant may contact Joe Disciascio (503-823-4904) with questions.
Pursuant to City Code Chapter 24.10, you may appeal this decision to the Building Code Board of Appeal within 90 calendar days of the date this decision is published. For information on the appeals process, how to file a reconsideration, and appealing to the Building Code Board of Appeal, go to https://www.portland.gov/ppd/file-appeal/appeal-process or email PPDAppeals@portlandoregon.gov.