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Form a Business

MEANS OF EGRESS

Municipal Code of Chicago tit. 14B, ch. 14B-10
in effect

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1001 Administration.

14B-10-1001 Administration. The provisions of Section 1001 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise Section 1001.1 by replacing "an approved" with "a." 2. Delete Section 1001.2.

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1002 Maintenance and plans.

14B-10-1002 Maintenance and plans. The provisions of Section 1002 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise Section 1002.1 to read: "1002.1 Maintenance. Means of egress shall be maintained in accordance with the Chicago Minimum Requirements for Existing Buildings and Chicago Fire Prevention Code." 2. Revise Section 1002.2 to read: "1002.2 Fire safety and evacuation plans. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be provided for all occupancies and buildings where required by the Chicago Fire Prevention Code. Such fire safety and evacuation plans shall comply with the applicable provisions of the Chicago Fire Prevention Code." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 38)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1003 General means of egress.

14B-10-1003 General means of egress. The provisions of Section 1003 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise Section 1003.3.1 to read: "1003.3.1 Headroom. Protruding objects are permitted to extend below the minimum ceiling height required by Section 1003.2 where a minimum headroom of 80 inches (2032 mm) is provided over any circulation paths, including walks, corridors, aisles and passageways. Not more than 50 percent of the ceiling area of a means of egress shall be reduced in height by protruding objects. A barrier shall be provided where the vertical clearance above a circulation path is less than 80 inches (2032 mm) high above the finished floor. The leading edge of such a barrier shall be located 27 inches (686 mm) maximum above the finished floor. Exceptions: 1. Door closers and stops that project no more than 4 inches (102 mm) shall not reduce headroom to less than 78 inches (1981 mm). 2. Spaces within dwelling units and sleeping units, other than Accessible units and Type A units, and means of egress from a single unit shall comply with Section 1207." 2. Revise Section 1003.4 to read: "1003.4 Slip-resistant surface. Circulation paths of the means of egress shall have a slip-resistant surface that is securely attached. Exception: Where a mat is used on a temporary or seasonal basis, the mat shall be securely attached or have a backing designed to be non-slip." 3. Revise the last sentence of Section 1003.5 before the exceptions to read: "Where a ramp is used for a difference in elevation that is 6 inches (152 mm) or less, it shall be equipped with either handrails or floor finish materials that contrast with adjacent floor finish materials." 4. Revise exceptions 1 and 2 to Section 1003.5 to read: "1. A single step with a maximum riser height of 8 inches (203 mm) is permitted at exterior doors not required to be accessible by Chapter 11 in Groups F, H, R-2, R-3, R-5, S and U. 2. A stair with a single riser or with two risers and a tread is permitted at locations not required to be accessible by Chapter 11 where the risers and treads comply with Section 1011.5, the minimum depth of the tread is 13 inches (330 mm) and a handrail is provided in accordance with Section 1014." 5. Revise Section 1003.7 to read: "1003.7 Elevators, escalators and moving walks. Elevators, escalators and moving walks shall not be used as a component of a required means of egress. Exception: Elevators used as an accessible means of egress in accordance with Section 1009.4." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 39)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1004 Occupant load.

14B-10-1004 Occupant load. The provisions of Section 1004 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise the last sentence of Section 1004.5 to read: "Where an intended function is not listed in Table 1004.5, selection of a listed function that most nearly resembles the intended function shall be approved by the building official." 1.1. Revise Table 1004.5 by changing the value for "Baggage claim" under "Airport terminal" from "20 gross" to "50 gross". 1.2. Revise Table 1004.5 by changing the value for “Gaming floors (keno, slots, etc.)” under “Assembly” from “11 gross” to “15 gross”. 2. Revise Table 1004.5 by adding a new entry under "Assembly without fixed seats" to read: "Outdoor areas (greater than 400 square feet) | 20 net" 3. Revise Table 1004.5 by changing the value for "Business areas" from "150 gross" to "100 net." 4. Revise Table 1004.5 by revising the entries under "Day care" to read: "Day care | Children under 2 | 55 net All others | 35 net" 5. Revise Table 1004.5 by revising the entries under "Exercise rooms" to read: "Exercise rooms | With equipment | 50 gross Open floor | 20 net" 6. Revise Table 1004.5 by replacing "Kitchens, commercial" with "Kitchens and service areas, commercial." 7. Revise Table 1004.5 by deleting the row for "Mall buildings-covered and open." 8. Revise Table 1004.5 by revising the entries under "Mercantile" to read: "Mercantile | First story above grade plane | 30 net Basement sales floor | 30 net Other floors | 60 net Storage, stock, shipping areas | 300 gross" 9. Revise Table 1004.5 by adding a row for "Power plants" to read: "Power plants | 400 gross" 10. Revise Table 1004.5 by revising the entries under "Residential" to read: "Residential | General | 125 gross Shared outdoor areas | 20 net" 11. Revise note a to Table 1004.5 to read: "a. Net floor area or gross floor area in square feet per occupant." 12. Revise Section 1004.5.1 to read: "1004.5.1 Increased occupant load. Where approved by the building official, the occupant load permitted in any building, or portion thereof, may be increased from that number established for the occupancies in Table 1004.5, provided that all other requirements of the code are met based on such modified number and the occupant load does not exceed one occupant per 7 square feet (0.65 m2) of occupiable floor space. An aisle, seating or fixed equipment diagram substantiating any increase in occupant load shall be submitted." 13. Revise Section 1004.6 by deleting the last sentence. 14. Revise Section 1004.7 to read: "1004.7 Outdoor areas. Where occupants are provided access to yards, patios, decks, exterior balconies, occupiable rooftops, courts and similar outdoor areas, the outdoor areas shall be provided with means of egress as required by this chapter. The occupant load of such outdoor areas shall be calculated in accordance with the anticipated use. Where the path of egress travel from the outdoor areas passes through the building, means of egress requirements for the building shall be based on the sum of the occupant loads of the building plus the outdoor areas. Exceptions: 1. Outdoor areas accessed exclusively for maintenance need only have one means of egress. 2. Outdoor areas associated with Group R-5 occupancies and located not more than 15 feet (4572 mm) above grade plane need only have one means of egress and shall not be assigned an occupant load. 3. Outdoor areas only accessed from an individual dwelling unit in Group R-2, R-3 or R-5 occupancies need only have one means of egress and shall not be assigned an occupant load." 15. Revise Section 1004.8 to read: "1004.8 Concentrated business use areas. The occupant load factor for concentrated business use shall be applied to telephone call centers, trading floors, data processing centers and similar business use areas with a higher density of occupants than would normally be expected in a typical business occupancy environment. The occupant load for concentrated business use areas shall be the actual occupant load, but not less than one occupant per 50 square feet (4.65 m2) of net floor area." 16. Revise Section 1004.9 to read: "1004.9 Posting of maximum capacity signs. Maximum capacity signs shall be posted where required by Section 802 of the Chicago Construction Codes Administrative Provisions." 17. Insert a new Section 1004.10 to read: "1004.10 Limited areas used for assembly-type functions. Where a Group B, F or M occupancy contains limited areas used for functions classified as either "assembly" or "assembly without fixed seats" in accordance with Table 1004.5, the occupant load for those areas shall be determined in accordance with Section 1004.10.1 and the cumulative occupant load for the occupancy shall be determined in accordance with Section 1004.10.2. 1004.10.1 Occupant load for egress from the room or area. Means of egress directly from a room or area used in full for assembly-type functions shall be designed for the occupant load determined in accordance with Section 1004.3 and Sections 1004.5 through 1004.8. 1004.10.2 Cumulative occupant load. The cumulative occupant load for the Group B, F or M occupancy shall be determined in accordance with Section 1004.10.2.1 through 1004.2.3. 1004.10.2.1 Rooms up to 150 square feet. For individual rooms or spaces with a gross floor area of 150 square feet (13.9 m 2 ) or less, the occupant load shall be determined by applying the occupant load factor in Table 1004.5 that is applicable to the predominant function of adjacent spaces within the same suite and same story which are not used for assembly-type functions. 1004.10.2.2 Rooms up to 750 square feet. For individual rooms or spaces with a gross floor area greater than 150 square feet (13.9 m 2 ) but not greater than 750 square feet (69.7 m 2 ), where the aggregate gross floor area of such rooms or spaces within the suite and story does not exceed 10 percent of the gross floor area of the suite or story, the occupant load shall be determined by applying the occupant load factor in Table 1004.5 that is applicable to the predominant function of adjacent spaces within the same suite and same story which are not used for assembly-type functions. 1004.10.2.3 Non-public meeting and training rooms. For rooms and spaces used with tables and chairs for meetings, conferences and training primarily attended by individuals employed in the same building and not open to the general public, the occupant load shall be determined by applying the occupant load factor for "classroom areas" in Table 1004.5." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 40; Amend Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791, Art. II, § 20; Amend Coun. J. 6-25-21, p. 32180, Art. II, § 15; Amend Coun. J. 1-24-24, p. 8634, Art. IV, § 2)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1005 Means of egress sizing.

14B-10-1005 Means of egress sizing. The provisions of Section 1005 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise Section 1005.2 by adding the following sentence at the end: "The width of means of egress components shall be measured in the clear at the narrowest point of the means of egress component under consideration, excepting projections permitted by this chapter." 2. Revise exception 1 to Section 1005.3.1 by deleting "and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2." 2.1. Delete exception 2 to Section 1005.3.1. 3. Revise exception 1 to Section 1005.3.2 by deleting "and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2." 3.1. Delete exception 2 to Section 1005.3.2. 4. Revise Section 1005.6 by replacing "two adjacent stories" with "stories immediately above and below." 5. Revise Section 1005.7.1 to read: "1005.7.1 Doors. Doors in any position shall not reduce the required width by more than one-quarter. Exceptions: 1. [Reserved.] 2. The restrictions on door swing shall not apply to doors within individual dwelling units and sleeping units of Group R-2, R-3 and R-5 occupancies. 3. The restrictions on door swing shall not apply to doors to rooms or spaces which are not occupiable spaces. 4. In Group E-1 occupancies, door swing shall not reduce the required width of corridors by any amount." 6. Revise Section 1005.7.2 to read: "1005.7.2 Other projections. Handrail projections shall be in accordance with the provisions of Section 1014.8. Other projections such as trim and similar features shall be allowed to project into the required width not more than 1 1/2 inches (38 mm) on each side. Exception: Projections are allowed in corridors within Group I-2 Condition 1 in accordance with Section 407.4.3." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 41; Amend Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791, Art. II, § 21; Amend Coun. J. 6-25-21, p. 32180, Art. II, § 16)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1006 Number of exits and exit access doorways.

14B-10-1006 Number of exits and exit access doorways. The provisions of Section 1006 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise Section 1006.1 by replacing "occupied roofs" with "occupiable rooftops." 2. Revise Section 1006.2 by deleting "or basement." 3. Revise Section 1006.2.1 by replacing "values listed in Table 1006.2.1" with "values listed in Table 1006.2.1 or the floor area of the space exceeds 4,000 square feet (372 m2)." 4. Replace Table 1006.2.1 as shown: TABLE 1006.2.1 SPACES WITH ONE EXIT OR EXIT ACCESS DOORWAY OCCUPANCY | MAXIMUM OCCUPANT LOAD OF SPACE | MAXIMUM COMMON PATH OF EGRESS TRAVEL DISTANCE (feet) Without Sprinkler System (feet) | With Sprinkler System (feet) OCCUPANCY | MAXIMUM OCCUPANT LOAD OF SPACE | MAXIMUM COMMON PATH OF EGRESS TRAVEL DISTANCE (feet) Without Sprinkler System (feet) | With Sprinkler System (feet) A c, E | 49 | 75 | 75 a B, M | 49 | 75 | 115 a F | 49 | 75 | 115 a H-1, H-2, H-3 | 3 | NP | 25 b H-4, H-5 | 10 | NP | 75 b I-1, I-2 d, I-4 | 10 | NP | 75 a I-3 | 10 | NP | 100 a R-1 | 10 h | 60 | 75 i | 115 a R-2 | 10 h | 60 | 75 i | 115 a R-3 e, R-5 e | 10 h | 60 | 75 g, i | 115 a R-4 e | 10 h | 60 | 75 g, i | 115 a S f | 29 | 75 | 115 a U | 49 | 75 | 75 a For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2. NP = Not permitted. a. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. b. Group H occupancies equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.5. c. For a room or space used for assembly purposes having fixed seating, see Section 1029.8. d. For the travel distance limitations in Group I-2, see Section 407.4. e. The common path of egress travel distance and occupant load limitations shall not apply to a building exclusively containing a single dwelling unit and no other occupancy or within a townhouse. f. The common path of egress travel distance in a Group S-2 parking garage shall be not more than 100 feet. g. For the travel distance limitations in Groups R-3, R-4 and R-5 equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3, see Section 1006.2.2.6. h. 20 in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. For spaces in Group R occupancies required by Section 1004 to use an occupant load factor more intensive that 125 gross, the maximum occupant load is 49. i. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2. See Section 903 for occupancies where automatic sprinkler systems are permitted in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2. 5. [Reserved.] 6. Revise Section 1006.2.2.1 by replacing "one is permitted to be a fixed ladder" with "one is allowed to be served by a fixed ladder" and replacing "equal to one-half" with "equal to not less than one-half." 6.1. Revise Section 1006.2.2.2 by replacing "equal to one-half" with "equal to not less than one-half." 7. Revise Section 1006.2.2.3 by deleting "approved." 8. Revise Section 1006.2.2.4 by replacing "2 1/2 years of age or less" with "less than 2 years of age." 9. Revise Section 1006.2.2.6 to read: "1006.2.2.6 Groups R-3, R-4 and R-5. Where Group R-3 and R-5 occupancies are permitted by Section 903.2.8 to be protected by an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3, the exit access travel distance for Group R-3 and R-5 shall be not more than 75 feet (22 860 mm). Where Group R-4 occupancies are permitted by Section 903.2.8 to be protected by an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3, the exit access travel distance for Group R-4 shall be not more than 75 feet (22 860 mm)." 10. Add a new Section 1006.2.2.7 to read: "1006.2.2.7 Electrical rooms. Two exit access doorways are required in electrical rooms containing equipment rated 3,000 amperes or greater. Exit access doorways shall be separated by a horizontal distance equal to not less than one-half the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the room." 11. Revise Section 1006.3 to read: "1006.3 Egress from stories or occupiable rooftops. The means of egress system serving any story or occupiable rooftop shall be provided with the number of separate and distinct exits or access to exits based on the aggregate occupant load served in accordance with this section. Where stairways serve more than one story or occupiable rooftop, only the occupant load of each story or occupiable rooftop considered individually shall be used in calculating the required number of exits or access to exits serving that story or occupiable rooftop." 12. Revise exception 1 to Section 1006.3.1 by replacing "Group R-1, R-2 or R-2" with "Group R." 13. Delete exception 2 to Section 1006.3.1. 14. Revise Section 1006.3.2 to read: "1006.3.2 Egress based on occupant load. Each story and occupiable rooftop shall have the minimum number of separate and distinct exits, or access to exits, as specified in Table 1006.3.2. A single exit or access to a single exit shall be permitted in accordance with Section 1006.3.3. The required number of exits, or exit access stairways or ramps providing access to exits, from any story or occupiable rooftop shall be maintained until arrival at the exit discharge or a public way. Exception: Two exits shall be permitted from a story separated by fire barriers into two areas of approximately equal size that are connected by a horizontal exit where the occupant load of each area does not exceed 300." 15. Revise Section 1006.3.3 to read: "1006.3.3 Single exits. A single exit or access to a single exit shall be permitted from any story or occupiable rooftop where one of the following conditions exists: 1. The occupant load, number of dwelling units and common path of egress travel distance do not exceed the values in Table 1006.3.3(1). 2. Rooms, areas and spaces in the first story above grade plane complying with Section 1006.2 with exits that discharge directly to the exterior at the level of exit discharge, are permitted to have one exit. 3. [Reserved.] 4. [Reserved.] 5. [Reserved.] 6. A level within or serving a single dwelling unit, provided all the following criteria are met: 6.1. The level is either: 6.1.1. A story not more than one story above or below the first story above grade plane. 6.1.2. A mezzanine in accordance with Section 505.2. 6.1.3. A loft in accordance with Section 1207.5. 6.2. The floor area of the level does not exceed: 6.2.1. 1,600 square feet (148.6 m2). 6.2.2. 2,000 square feet (185.8 m2) where the building is protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system. 6.3. The dwelling unit has an exit door that discharges directly to the exterior at the level of exit discharge. 7. The third story above grade plane within a dwelling unit provided all the following criteria are met: 7.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3. 7.2. The floor area of the story does not exceed 1,600 square feet (148.6 m2). 7.3. The dwelling unit has an exit that discharges directly to the exterior at the level of exit discharge. 8. The third story above grade plane within a dwelling unit provided that all of the following criteria are met: 8.1. The building does not contain more than three stories above grade plane. 8.2. The building does not contain more than three dwelling units. 8.3. The net floor area of the story does not exceed 800 square feet (74.3 m2). 8.4. Each habitable space on the story shall have a window with a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet (0.53 m2), the bottom of which is not more than 44 inches (1118 mm) above the floor. 8.5. Each room within the dwelling unit used for sleeping purposes shall be provided with solid wood doors not less than 1 3/4 inches (45 mm) in thickness in a rabbeted frame, or doors in compliance with Section 716.2.2.1 with a fire protection rating of not less than 20 minutes. 8.6. In addition to an interior exit access stairway, the second story above grade plane shall have either a second interior exit access stairway leading directly to an exit door that discharges to the exterior at the level of exit discharge or access to an exterior means of egress leading directly to grade. 8.7. Either of the following shall be provided at the third story above grade plane: 8.7.1. The exit access stairway is enclosed with construction providing a fire-resistance rating of at least one hour and a door meeting criterion 8.5. 8.7.2. An exterior balcony is provided with a depth of at least 3 feet (914 mm). 9. The third and fourth story above grade plane in a townhouse, provided all the following criteria are met: 9.1. The townhouse construction type is I, IIA, IIIA or IV. 9.2. The floor area of the story does not exceed 1,500 square feet (139.4 m2). 9.3. At least one exit access stairway is contained within the townhouse and leads directly to the exterior at the level of exit discharge. 9.4. An egress balcony complying with Section 1021 shall connect at least 3 townhouses at the highest story to an interior exit stairway. 9.5. Each habitable space more than two stories above grade plane shall have a window with a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet (0.53 m2), the bottom of which is not more than 44 inches (1118 mm) above the floor. 9.6. Each room in the townhouse used for sleeping purposes shall be provided with solid wood doors not less than 1-3/4 inches (45 mm) in thickness in a rabbeted frame, or doors in compliance with Section 716.2.2.1 with a fire protection rating of not less than 20 minutes. 10. An occupiable rooftop provided all the following criteria are met: 10.1. The occupiable rooftop is adjacent to a public way. 10.2. The occupiable rooftop is located no more than 12 feet (3658 mm) above the level of the public way. 10.3. The net floor area does not exceed 800 square feet (74.3 m2). 11. An occupiable rooftop provided both of the following criteria are met: 11.1. The occupiable rooftop is located no more than 40 feet (12.2 m) above grade plane. 11.2. The net floor area does not exceed 300 square feet (27.9 m2). 12. A basement with a floor area that does not exceed 2,000 square feet (185.8 m2) that is used exclusively for storage or mechanical equipment, with only incidental human occupancy. 13. An outdoor area as provided in the exceptions to Section 1004.7." 16. Replace Table 1006.3.3(1) as shown: TABLE 1006.3.3(1) STORIES WITH ONE EXIT OR ACCESS TO ONE EXIT FOR R-2, R-3, R-4 AND R-5 OCCUPANCIES STORY | OCCUPANCY | MAXIMUM NUMBER OF DWELLING UNITS PER STORY | MAXIMUM COMMON PATH OF EGRESS TRAVEL DISTANCE First story below grade plane; first or second story above grade plane | R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5 | 4 dwelling units | 75 feet a Third story above grade plane and higher | NP | NA | NA For SI: 1 foot = 3048 mm. NP = Not permitted. NA = Not applicable. a. The maximum common path of egress travel distance shall be 125 feet (38.1 m) in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and buildings of Group R-3, R-4 or R-5 occupancy equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3. 17. Delete Table 1006.3.3(2). 18. Delete Section 1006.3.3.1. (Amend Coun. J. 7-24-19, p. 3646, § 31; Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 42; Amend Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791, Art. II, § 22; Amend Coun. J. 6-25-21, p. 32180, Art. II, § 17; Amend Coun. J. 9-14-21, p. 35949, Art. XV, § 8; Amend Coun. J. 1-26-22, p. 43756, Art. II, § 8)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1007 Exit and exit access doorway configuration.

14B-10-1007 Exit and exit access doorway configuration. The provisions of Section 1007 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise Section 1007.1 by adding the following sentence at the end: "Interlocking or scissor stairways shall be counted as one exit stairway." 2. Revise Section 1007.1.1 to read: "1007.1.1 Two exits or exit access doorways. Where two exits, exit access doorways, exit access stairways or exit access ramps, or any combination thereof, are required from any portion of the exit access, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one- half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the building or area to be served measured in a straight line between them. Exceptions: 1. Where interior exit stairways or exit access ramps are interconnected by a 1-hour fire-resistance- rated corridor conforming to the requirements of Section 1020, the required separation distance shall be measured along the shortest direct line of travel within the corridor. 2. Where a building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the separation distance shall be not less than one-third of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the area served. 3. In Group R-5 occupancies, the exits, exit access doorways, exit access stairways or exit access ramps shall be arranged remote from one another so as to minimize the chance of both being blocked by smoke or fire. 4. Where two exits, exit access doorways, exit access stairways or exit access ramps are required from or within a dwelling unit, they shall be arranged remote from one another so as to minimize the chance of both being blocked by smoke or fire. 5. Where two exits, exit access doorways, exit access stairways or exit access ramps are required from a Group B or Group M tenant space (other than an ambulatory care facility), a reduction in the required separation distance may be approved by the building official where the tenant space is separated from all other areas of the building by construction with a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour and the separation distance is sufficient to minimize the chance of both being blocked by smoke or fire. 6. In Group R-2 occupancies where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and dead-end corridors do not exceed 20 feet (6096 mm), the separation distance shall be not less than 15 feet (4572 mm)."

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1008 Means of egress illumination.

14B-10-1008 Means of egress illumination. The provisions of Section 1008 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise Section 1008.2 to read: "1008.2 Illumination required. The means of egress serving a room or space shall be artificially illuminated at all times that the room or space served by the means of egress is occupied and the intensity of lighting required by Section 1008.2.1 is not provided by means of natural light. Exceptions: 1. Occupancies in Group U. 2. Aisle accessways in Group A. 3. Dwelling units and sleeping units in Groups R. 4. Sleeping units of Group I occupancies." 2. Revise the exception to Section 1008.2.1 to read: "Exception: For auditoriums, theaters, concert or opera halls, galleries and similar assembly occupancies, the illumination at the walking surface is permitted to be reduced during performances or exhibits to not less than 0.1 footcandle (1 lux) at the walking surface, provided that the required illumination is automatically restored upon failure of normal power or activation of the premises’ fire alarm system." 3. Delete Section 1008.2.3. 4. Revise Sections 1008.3.1, 1008.3.2, and 1008.3.3 by replacing "power supply failure" with "normal power supply failure." 5. Revise item 2 in Section 1008.3.3 to read: "Rooms or spaces containing fire command centers." 6. Revise Section 1008.3.4 to read: "1008.3.4 Operation. The emergency power system shall be in accordance with Article 700 of the Chicago Electrical Code."

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1009 Accessible means of egress.

14B-10-1009 Accessible means of egress. The provisions of Section 1009 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise the exceptions to Section 1009.2.1 by replacing "an automatic sprinkler system" with "a supervised automatic sprinkler system." 2. [Reserved.] 3. Revise exception 2 to Section 1009.3.3 by replacing "an automatic sprinkler system" with "a supervised automatic sprinkler system." 4. Revise exception 2 to Section 1009.4.2 by replacing "an automatic sprinkler system" with "a supervised automatic sprinkler system." 5. Delete the exception to Section 1009.7.2. 6. Delete exception 6 to Section 1009.8. 7. Revise Section 1009.8.1 to read: "1009.8.1 System requirements. Two-way communication systems shall provide communication between each required location and the fire command center or a central control point location acceptable to the fire code official. Where the central control point is not a constantly attended location, a two-way communication system shall have a timed automatic telephone dial-out capability to a 24/7 monitoring service. The two-way communication system shall include both audible and visible signals. If a handset is provided, the handset cords shall be at least 29 inches (735 mm) long." 8. Revise Section 1009.10 by deleting "approved." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 43)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1010 Doors, gates and turnstiles.

14B-10-1010 Doors, gates and turnstiles. The provisions of Section 1010 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise exception 1 to Section 1010.1.1 to read: "1. Within Group R-2, R-3 and R-5 dwelling and sleeping units that are not required to be an Accessible unit, Type A unit or Type B unit, the minimum clear opening width of an exit access doorway, other than the primary entrance to the unit, shall be 28 inches (711 mm), and the minimum and maximum width shall not apply to door openings that are not part of the required means of egress." 2. Delete exception 8 to Section 1010.1.1. 3. Revise exceptions 11 and 12 to Section 1010.1.1 to read: "11. The minimum clear opening width shall not apply to doors for shower or sauna compartments not required to be accessible. 12. The minimum clear opening width shall not apply to the doors for toilet stalls or single-user toilet rooms not required to be accessible." 4. Revise exception 4 to Section 1010.1.2 to read: "4. Doors within or serving a single dwelling unit in Groups R-2, R-3 and R-5." 5. Delete exceptions 6 and 8 to Section 1010.1.2. 6. Revise exception 9 to Section 1010.1.2 by replacing "Group H" with "Groups E and H." 7. Revise Section 1010.1.3 to read: "1010.1.3 Door opening force. The force for pushing or pulling open interior swinging egress doors, other than fire doors, shall not exceed 5 pounds (22 N). The force for pushing or pulling open exterior hinged doors and gates shall not exceed 8.5 pounds (38 N). These forces do not apply to the force required to retract latch bolts or disengage other devices that hold the door in a closed position. For other swinging doors, as well as sliding and folding doors, the door latch shall release when subjected to a 15-pound (67 N) force. The door shall be set in motion when subjected to a 30-pound (133 N) force. The door shall swing to a full-open position when subjected to a 15-pound (67 N) force. Exceptions: 1. Group R-5. 2. Within Type B units. 3. Within or serving only dwelling units that are not required to be Type B units." 8. Revise the exception to Section 1010.1.4.1.2, item 4, by replacing "in an approved location and clearly identified" with "within sight of the revolving door." 9. Delete Section 1010.1.4.3. 10. Delete Section 1010.1.4.4.1. 11. Revise exception 1 to Section 1010.1.5, exclusive of subparts, to read: "1. Doors serving individual dwelling units in Groups R-2, R-3 and R-5 occupancies where the following apply:" 12. Revise exception 3 to Section 1010.1.5 to read: "3. In Group R-2, R-3 and R-5 occupancies not required to be Accessible units, Type A units or Type B units, the landing at an exterior doorway shall be not more than 8 inches (203 mm) below the top of the threshold, provided the door, other than an exterior storm or screen door, does not swing over the landing." 13. Revise exception 5 to Section 1010.1.5 to read: "5. Exterior decks, patios or exterior balconies that are part of Type B dwelling units, have impervious surfaces and that are not more than 4 inches (102 mm) below the finished floor level of the adjacent interior space of the dwelling unit." 14. Revise Section 1010.1.6 to read: "1010.1.6 Landings at doors. Landings shall have a width not less than the width of the stairway or the door, whichever is greater. Doors in the fully open position shall not reduce a required dimension by more than one-quarter its required width. Landings shall have a length measured in the direction of travel of not less than 44 inches (1118 mm). Exception: Landing length in the direction of travel in Groups R-3, R-5 and U and within individual units of Group R-2 need not exceed 36 inches (914 mm)." 15. Revise the exceptions to Section 1010.1.7 to read: "Exceptions: 1. In occupancy Group R-2, R-3 or R-5, threshold heights for sliding and side-hinged exterior doors shall be permitted to be up to 8 inches (203 mm) in height if all of the following apply: 1.1. [Reserved.] 1.2. The door is not part of an accessible route as required by Chapter 11. 1.3. The door is not part of an Accessible unit, Type A unit or Type B unit. 2. In Type B units, where Exception 5 to Section 1010.1.5 permits a 4-inch (102 mm) elevation change at the door, the threshold height on the exterior side of the door shall not exceed 4 3/4 inches (120 mm) in height above the exterior deck, patio or exterior balcony for sliding doors or 4 1/2 inches (114 mm) above the exterior deck, patio or exterior balcony for other doors." 16. Revise the exceptions to Section 1010.1.8 to read: "Exceptions: 1. The minimum distance between horizontal sliding power-operated doors in a series shall be 48 inches (1219 mm). 2. Storm and screen doors serving individual dwelling units in Groups R-2, R-3 and R-5 need not be spaced 48 inches (1219 mm) from the other door. 3. Doors within individual dwelling units in Groups R-2, R-3 and R-5 other than within Accessible units and Type A units." 17. Revise Section 1010.1.9.4 to read: "1010.1.9.4 Locks and latches. Locks and latches shall be permitted to prevent operation of doors where any of the following exist: 1. Places of detention or restraint. 2. Where approved by the fire code official, in buildings in occupancy Group A having an occupant load of 300 or less, Groups B, F, M and S, and in places of religious worship, the main door or doors are permitted to be equipped with key-operated locking devices from the egress side provided: 2.1. The locking device is readily distinguishable as locked. 2.2. A readily visible durable sign is posted on the egress side on or adjacent to the door stating: THIS DOOR TO REMAIN UNLOCKED WHEN THIS SPACE IS OCCUPIED. The sign shall be in letters 1 inch (25 mm) high on a contrasting background. 2.3. The use of the key-operated locking device is revocable by the fire code official for due cause. 3. Where egress doors are used in pairs, automatic flush bolts shall be permitted to be used, provided that the door leaf having the automatic flush bolts does not have a doorknob or surface-mounted hardware. 4. Doors from individual dwelling or sleeping units of Group R occupancies having an occupant load of 10 or less are permitted to be equipped with a night latch, dead bolt or security chain, provided such devices are openable from the inside without the use of a key, tool or special knowledge. 5. Fire doors after the minimum elevated temperature has disabled the unlatching mechanism in accordance with listed fire door test procedures. 6. Doors serving roofs not intended to be occupied shall be permitted to be locked preventing entry to the building from the roof." 18. Delete exception 3 to Section 1010.1.9.5. 19. Revise exception 4 to Section 1010.1.9.5 to read: "4. Where a pair of doors serves a Group B, F or S occupancy, manually operated edge- or surface-mounted bolts are permitted on the inactive leaf provided that such inactive leaf is not needed to meet egress capacity requirements. The inactive leaf shall not contain doorknobs, panic bars or similar operating hardware." 20. Revise item 5 in Section 1010.1.9.7 to read: "5. The procedures for unlocking the doors shall be described and accepted as part of the emergency planning and preparedness required by the Chicago Fire Prevention Code." 20.1. Revise Section 1010.1.9.8 by inserting an item 3 to read: “3. Group A occupancies in airport terminals.” 21. Revise items 3 and 4 (including the exception) in Section 1010.1.9.8.1 to read: "3. The delayed egress locking system shall have the capability of being deactivated at the fire command panel. Nothing in this section shall prohibit installation of deactivation means at additional locations. 4. An attempt to egress shall initiate an irreversible process that shall allow such egress not more than 15 seconds after pressure is applied to the egress-side door hardware for not more than 1 second. Initiation of the irreversible process shall activate an audible signal in the vicinity of the door. Once the delay electronics have been deactivated, rearming the delay electronics shall be by manual means only. The time delay shall not be field adjustable." 22. Delete item 6.2 in Section 1010.1.9.8.1. 23. Add new item 9 in Section 1010.1.9.8.1 to read: "9. The door must swing in the direction of egress travel." 24. Revise Section 1010.1.9.11 by replacing "an approved" with "a." Revise exceptions 3 through 5 to Section 1010.1.9.12 to read: "3. In interior exit stairways serving more than 4 stories, exit doors are permitted to be locked from the side opposite the egress side, provided that they are openable from the egress side and capable of being unlocked simultaneously without unlatching both automatically, by smoke detectors or waterflow devices, and manually, upon a signal from the fire command panel, if present, or a signal by building management or emergency personnel from a single location inside the main entrance to the building. A telephone or other two-way communication system connected to a constantly monitored location shall be provided in the exit stairway at not less than every fifth story. 4. In interior exit stairways serving 4 or fewer stories in other than Group A, E, H, and I occupancies, exit doors are permitted to be locked from the side opposite the egress side. 5. Stairway exit doors shall be openable from the egress side and shall only be locked from the opposite side in Group R-2 or R-5 occupancies where the only interior access to the dwelling unit is from a single interior exit stairway." 25. Revise the exception to Section 1010.2 to read: "Exception: Horizontal sliding or swinging gates exceeding the 4-foot (1219 mm) maximum leaf width limitation are permitted in exterior fences and walls." 26. Insert a new Section 1010.2.2 to read: "1010.2.2 Residential buildings. Exterior gates which are part of the exit discharge for a Group R-2, R-3, R-4 or R-5 occupancy shall conform to the applicable requirements of this section. 1010.2.2.1 Small residential buildings. On a lot containing buildings with not more than 4 stories above grade plane and not more than 4 dwelling units or sleeping units, an exterior gate is allowed to require a key or special tool to operate in either or both directions. 1010.2.2.2 Large residential buildings. On a lot containing buildings with 5 or more stories above grade plane or containing 5 or more dwelling units or sleeping units, an exterior gate shall not require a key or special tool to operate in the direction of egress." 27. Revise Section 1010.3.2 by replacing "an approved" with "a." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 44; Amend Coun. J. 12-14-22, p. 58278, Art. III, § 3; Amend Coun. J. 1-24-24, p. 8634, Art. IV, § 3)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1011 Stairways.

14B-10-1011 Stairways. The provisions of Section 1011 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise exception 1 to Section 1011.2 by replacing "an occupant load" with "a story or mezzanine with an occupant load". 1.1. Revise exception 3 to Section 1011.2 by replacing "Group R-3" with "Group R-3 or R-5." 2. Revise Section 1011.3 by replacing "80 inches (2032 mm)" with "7 feet (2134 mm)." 3. Revise exception 2 to Section 1011.3 to read: "2. The required headroom clearance shall be not less than 80 inches (2032 mm), and where the nosings of treads at the side of a flight extend under the edge of a floor opening through which the stair passes, the floor opening shall be allowed to project horizontally into the required headroom not more than 4 3/4 inches (121 mm) in any of the following conditions: 2.1. In Group R-3 and R-5 occupancies. 2.2. Within dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies. 2.3. In Group U occupancies that are accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy or accessory to individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies." 4. Revise Section 1011.4 to read: "1011.4 Walkline. Where a stair includes winder treads, the walkline shall comply with Section 1011.4.1 or 1011.4.2. 1011.4.1 Other than Group R-5 occupancies and within dwelling units. The walkline across winder treads in other than R-5 occupancies and within individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies shall be concentric to the direction of travel through the turn and located 12 inches (305 mm) from the side where the winders are narrower. The 12-inch (305 mm) dimension shall be measured from the widest point of the clear stair width at the walking surface of the winder. Where winders are adjacent within the flight, the point of the widest clear stair width of the adjacent winders shall be used. 1011.4.2 Group R-5 occupancies and within dwelling units. The walkline across winder treads in R-5 occupancies and within individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies shall be concentric to the direction of travel through the turn and located 18 inches (457 mm) from the side where the winders are narrower." 5. Revise exception 3 to Section 1011.5.2 to read: "3. The maximum riser height shall be 8 inches (203 mm), the minimum tread depth shall be 9 inches (229 mm), the minimum winder tread depth at the walkline shall be 9 inches (229 mm) and a nosing projection not less than 1 inch (25 mm) but not more than 1 1/4 inches (32 mm) shall be provided where the tread depth is less than 10 inches (254 mm) in any of the following conditions: 3.1. In Group R-3 and R-5 occupancies. 3.2. Within dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies. 3.3. In interior and exterior stairways in Group R-2 occupancies serving only units that are not required to be Accessible units or Type A units. 3.4. In Group U occupancies that are accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy or accessory to individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies." 6. Revise Section 1011.5.3 to read: "1011.5.3 Winder treads. Winder treads are not permitted in means of egress stairways. Exceptions: 1. Curved stairways in accordance with Section 1011.9. 2. Spiral stairways in accordance with Section 1011.10. 3. Within or serving a building of Group R-3 or R-5 occupancy. 4. Within a dwelling unit in a Group R occupancy." 6.1. Revise Section 1011.5.5 by deleting the second sentence. 7. Revise Section 1011.5.5.3 to read: "1011.5.5.3 Riser profile. Risers shall be solid and vertical or sloped under the tread above from the underside of the nosing above at an angle not more than 30 degrees (0.52 rad) from the vertical. Exceptions: 1. Interior stairways that are not required to comply with Section 1009.3, provided that the opening between treads does not permit the passage of a sphere with a diameter of 6 inches (152 mm). 2. Occupancies in Group I-3 or in Group F, H and S occupancies other than areas accessible to the public. The size of the opening in the riser is not restricted. 3. Spiral stairways constructed in accordance with Section 1011.10. 4. Exterior stairways that are not required to comply with Section 1009.3." 8. [Reserved.] 9. Revise Section 1011.6 to read: "1011.6 Stairway landings. There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway. The width of landings, measured perpendicularly to the direction of travel, shall be not less than the width of stairways served. Every landing shall have a minimum depth, measured parallel to the direction of travel, equal to the width of the stairway or 48 inches (1219 mm), whichever is less. Doors opening onto a landing shall not reduce the landing by more than one-quarter the required width. Where wheelchair spaces are required on the stairway landing in accordance with Section 1009.6.3, the wheelchair space shall not be located in the required width of the landing and doors shall not swing over the wheelchair spaces. Exceptions: 1. Where stairways connect stepped aisles to cross aisles or concourses, stairway landings are not required at the transition between stairways and stepped aisles constructed in accordance with Section 1029. 2. Where doors are allowed by Section 1010.1.5." 9.1. Revise Section 1011.7 to read: "1011.7 Stairway construction. Stairways shall be built of materials consistent with the type of construction of the building. Exceptions: 1. Stairways connecting five or more stories shall be built of and supported by noncombustible materials. Shaft enclosures for stairways connecting five or more stories shall be built of noncombustible materials. 2. Wood handrails shall be permitted for all types of construction." 10. Revise the exception to Section 1011.7.3 by replacing "Group R-2 or R-3" with "Group R-2, R-3 or R-5." 11. Revise Section 1011.8 to read: "1011.8 Vertical rise. A flight of stairs shall not have a vertical rise greater than 12 feet (3658 mm) between floor levels or landings. Exceptions: 1. Spiral stairways used as a means of egress from technical production areas. 2. In Group R-3 and R-5 occupancies a flight of stairs may have a vertical rise not greater than 151 inches (3835 mm) between floor levels or landings." 12. Revise the exception to Section 1011.9 by replacing "Group R-3" with "Group R-3 and R 5." 13. Revise the first sentence of Section 1011.10 to read: "Spiral stairways are permitted to be used as a component in the means of egress in the following locations only: 1. Within a dwelling unit. 2. Serving a single dwelling unit. 3. From a space not more than 250 square feet (23 m 2 ) in area and serving not more than five occupants. 4. From a technical production area in accordance with Section 410.5 ." 14. Revise Section 1011.11 to read: "1011.11 Handrails. Flights of stairs shall have handrails on each side and shall comply with Section 1014. Where glass is used to provide or support the handrail, the handrail or support shall comply with Section 2407. Exceptions: 1. Flights of stairs within dwelling units and spiral stairways are permitted to have a handrail on one side only. 2. Decks, patios and walkways accessory to Group R-5 occupancies or individual dwelling units that have a single change in elevation where the landing depth on each side of the change of elevation is greater than what is required for a landing do not require handrails. 3. Where allowed, a change in elevation consisting of a single riser at an entrance or egress door does not require handrails. 4. Changes in elevation of three or fewer risers within or accessory to individual dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R-2, R-3 and R-5 do not require handrails. 5. Flights of stairs that serve as stepped aisles for seating areas shall have handrails either at one or both sides of the aisle or within the aisle width." 15. Revise Section 1011.12 to read: "1011.12 Stairway to roof. In buildings with four or more stories above grade plane, one stairway shall extend to the roof surface unless the roof has a slope greater than or equal to three units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-percent slope). Exception: Other than where required by Section 1011.12.1, in buildings without an occupiable rooftop, access to the roof from the top story shall be permitted to be by an alternating tread device, a ship's ladder or a permanent ladder." 16. Revise Section 1011.12.2 to read: "1011.12.2 Roof access. Where a stairway is provided to a roof, access to the roof shall be provided through a penthouse complying with Section 1510.2. Exception: In buildings without an occupiable rooftop, access to the roof shall be permitted to be a roof hatch or trap door not less than 16 square feet (1.5 m2) in area and having a minimum dimension of 2 feet (610 mm)." 17. Revise Section 1011.14 by adding the following after the last sentence: "The minimum clear width at and below the handrails shall be 20 inches (508 mm)." 18. Delete the exception to Section 1011.14.2. 19. Revise the second sentence of Section 1011.16 to read: "Permanent ladders shall be constructed in accordance with Section 306.5 of the Chicago Mechanical Code." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 45; Amend Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791, Art. II, § 23; Amend Coun. J. 1-26-22, p. 43756, Art. II, § 9; Amend Coun. J. 6-17-26, p. 45214, Art. IV, § 32)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1012 Ramps.

14B-10-1012 Ramps. The provisions of Section 1012 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise exception 1 to Section 1012.6.3 by replacing "Group R-2 and R-3" with "Group R-2, R-3 and R-5." 2. Revise the exception to Section 1012.6.4 by replacing "Group R-2 and R-3" with "Group R-2, R-3 and R-5."

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1013 Exit signs.

14B-10-1013 Exit signs. The provisions of Section 1013 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise Section 1013.1 by deleting "approved." 2. Revise the exceptions to Section 1013.1 to read: "Exceptions: 1. Exit signs are not required in rooms or areas that require only one exit or exit access. 2. Main exterior exit doors or gates that are obviously and clearly identifiable as exits need not have exit signs where approved by the fire code official. 3. Exit signs are not required in occupancies in Group U and individual sleeping units or dwelling units in Group R-1, R-2, R-3 or R-5. 4. Exit signs are not required in dayrooms, sleeping rooms or dormitories in occupancies in Group I-3." 3. Delete Section 1013.2. 4. Revise Section 1013.3 to read: "1013.3 Illumination. Exit signs shall be internally illuminated. Exception: Visual character signs required by Section 1013.14 shall be internally or externally illuminated at all times. Tactile signs required by Section 1013.4 need not be provided with illumination." 5. Revise Section 1013.4 to read: "1013.4 Raised character and braille signs. Signs stating "AREA OF REFUGE," "EXTERIOR AREA FOR ASSISTED RESCUE," "EXIT," "STAIR" or "FIRE ESCAPE," as required by Sections 1009.9 and 1013.6.1, in visual characters, raised characters and braille and complying with ICC A117.1 shall be provided adjacent to each door to an area of refuge, or providing direct access to an exit stairway, an exterior area for assisted rescue, an exit ramp, an exit passageway or the exit discharge." 6. Delete Section 1013.5. 7. Revise Section 1013.6 and its subsections to read: "1013.6 Internally illuminated exit signs. Internally illuminated exit signs shall comply with Sections 1013.6.1 through 1013.6.3. 1013.6.1 Graphics. Every exit sign and directional exit sign shall have plainly legible letters not less than 3 3/8 inches (86 mm) high with the principal strokes of the letters not less than 9/16 inch (14 mm) wide. Directional exit signs shall have a horizontal arrow below the lettering not less than 1/2 inch (13 mm) wide, running the full length of the lettering. Signs larger than the minimum established in this section shall have letter widths, strokes and spacing in proportion to their height. The lettering and arrow shall be red on a white translucent background and shall be clearly discernible when the means of exit sign illumination is or is not energized. 1013.6.1.1 Exit sign. Exit signs, other than those subject to Section 1013.6.1.2 or 1013.6.1.3 shall read "EXIT." 1013.6.1.2 Stair sign. Exit signs located immediately over an exit access stairway or exit access door leading to an exit stairway shall read "STAIR" or "EXIT STAIR." In existing buildings, new exit signs may also read "STAIRS" or "STAIRWAY" if consistent with existing exit signs. 1013.6.1.3 Fire escape sign. In existing buildings, exit signs and directional exit signs leading to a fire escape shall read "FIRE ESCAPE." 1013.6.2 Exit sign illumination. The face of an exit sign shall be illuminated to meet the luminance measurement test in UL 924. 1013.6.3 Power source. Exit signs shall be illuminated at all times. To ensure continued illumination for a duration of not less than 90 minutes in case of primary power loss, the sign illumination means shall be connected to an emergency power system provided from storage batteries, unit equipment or an on-site generator. The installation of the emergency power system shall be in accordance with Article 700 of the Chicago Electrical Code."

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1014 Handrails.

14B-10-1014 Handrails. The provisions of Section 1014 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise exception 2 to Section 1014.2 by replacing "Group R-3" with "Group R-3 or R-5." 2. Revise the exception to Section 1014.3 by replacing "Group R-3" with "Group R-3 or R-5."

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1015 Guards.

14B-10-1015 Guards. The provisions of Section 1015 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Add a new exception 8 to Section 1015.2 to read: "8. On the loading side of passenger platforms for fixed guideway transit and passenger rail systems." 2. Revise item 1 of Section 1015.3 to read: "1. From adjacent walking surfaces, excluding any horizontal surface 12 inches (305 mm) or less in depth measured perpendicular to the guard." 3. Revise exceptions 1, 2 and 3 to Section 1015.3 to read: "1. For occupancies in Group R-3 and R-5 not more than three stories above grade plane in height and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, and outdoor areas of individual dwelling units located not more than three stories above grade plane, required guards shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height measured vertically above the adjacent walking surfaces. 2. For occupancies in Group R-3 and R-5, and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, guards on the open sides of stairs shall have a height not less than 34 inches (864 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edges of the treads. 3. For occupancies in Group R-3 and R-5, and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, where the top of the guard serves as a handrail on the open sides of stairs, the top of the guard shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edges of the treads." 4. Revise the exceptions to Section 1015.4 to read: "Exceptions: 1. From a height of 36 inches (914 mm) to 42 inches (1067 mm), guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter. 2. The triangular openings at the open sides of a stair, formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail shall not allow passage of a sphere 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter. 3. At elevated walking surfaces for access to and use of electrical, mechanical or plumbing systems or equipment, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter. 4. In areas that are not open to the public within occupancies in Group I-3, F, H, M or S; for alternating tread devices and ship's ladders; and in similar locations where children under the age of 5 are unlikely to be present that are approved by the building official, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter. 5. In assembly seating areas, guards required at the end of aisles in accordance with Section 1029.17.4 shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter up to a height of 26 inches (660 mm). From a height of 26 inches (660 mm) to 42 inches (1067 mm) above the adjacent walking surfaces, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 8 inches (203 mm) in diameter. 6. Within individual dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R-2, R-3 and R-5 occupancies, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 3/8 (111 mm) inches in diameter." 5. Revise Section 1015.5 to read: "1015.5 Screen porches. Porches and decks that are enclosed with insect screening shall be provided with guards where the walking surface is located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below at any point within 36 inches (914 mm) horizontally to the edge of the screening." 6. Revise Section 1015.8 and its subparts to read: "1015.8 Window openings. Where the bottom of the clear opening of an operable window in a dwelling unit, sleeping unit or common area in a Group R occupancy is located less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the finished floor and more than 72 inches (1829 mm) above the finished grade or other surface below on the exterior of the building, the window shall comply with one of the following: 1. Operable windows where the bottom of the clear opening is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the finished grade or other surface below and that are provided with window fall prevention devices that comply with ASTM F2006. 2. Operable windows where the openings will not allow a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere within 36 inches (914 mm) of the finished floor or a 6-inch-diameter (152 mm) sphere within 42 inches (1067 mm) of the finished floor to pass through the opening when the window is in its largest opened position. 3. Operable windows where the openings are provided with window fall prevention devices that comply with ASTM F2090. 4. Operable windows that are provided with window opening control devices that comply with ASTM F2090. Exception: In Group R-2 and R-5 occupancies this section only applies where either: 1. The bottom of the clear opening of an operable window is located less than 24 inches (610 mm) above the finished floor and at least 72 inches (1829 mm) but not more than 20 feet (6096 mm) above the finished grade or other surface below on the exterior of the building. 2. The bottom of the clear opening of an operable window is located less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the finished floor and more than 20 feet (6096 mm) above the finished grade or other surface below on the exterior of the building." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 46; Amend Coun. J. 12-14-22, p. 58278, Art. III, § 4)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1016 Exit access.

14B-10-1016 Exit access. The provisions of Section 1016 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modification: 1. Revise item 1 of Section 1016.2 by deleting the second sentence. 2. Revise the exception to item 5 of Section 1016.2 by replacing "kitchen" with "kitchen, laundry or open storage area." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 47; Amend Coun. J. 6-25-21, p. 32180, Art. II, § 18)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1017 Exit access travel distance.

14B-10-1017 Exit access travel distance. The provisions of Section 1017 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise note a to Table 1017.2 to delete "Section 402: For the distance limitation in malls." 2. Revise note e to Table 1017.2 to replace "Group R-3 and R-4" with "Group R-3, R-4 and R-5." 3. Delete the exception to Section 1017.3. (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 48)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1019 Exit access stairways and ramps.

14B-10-1019 Exit access stairways and ramps. The provisions of Section 1019 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise items 2, 3 and 4 in Section 1019.3 to read: "2. In Group R-1, R-2, R-3 or R-5 occupancies, exit access stairways and ramps connecting four stories or less serving and contained within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit or live/work unit. 3. Exit access stairways connecting three stories or less serving and contained within a Group R-3 congregate living facility or a Group R-4 facility are not required to be enclosed. 4. [Reserved.]" 2. Revise item 7 in Section 1019.3 to delete "smoke-protected or."

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1020 Corridors.

14B-10-1020 Corridors. The provisions of Section 1020 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Delete exception 1 to Section 1020.1. 2. Replace Table 1020.1 as shown: TABLE 1020.1 CORRIDOR FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING OCCUPANCY | OCCUPANT LOAD SERVED BY CORRIDOR | REQUIRED FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING (hours) Without sprinkler system | With sprinkler system OCCUPANCY | OCCUPANT LOAD SERVED BY CORRIDOR | REQUIRED FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING (hours) Without sprinkler system | With sprinkler system H-1, H-2, H-3 | All | Not Permitted | 1 H-4, H-5 | Greater than 30 | Not Permitted | 1 A, B, F, M, S, U | Greater than 30 | 1 | 0 e E | All | 1 | 1 R | Greater than 10 | 1 | 1 I-2 a | All | Not Permitted | 0 I-1, I-3 | All | Not Permitted | 1 b I-4 | All | 1 | 0 a. For requirements for occupancies in Group I-2, see Sections 407.2 and 407.3. b. For a reduction in the fire-resistance rating for occupancies in Group I-3, see Section 408.8. c. [Reserved.] d. [Reserved.] e. In Groups A-1, A-2, A-3, and A-4 occupancies, corridors serving and visually separated from a room or suite of rooms with an occupant load of 300 or more shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour. 2.1. Revise Section 1020.1.1 by replacing "Section 3006.2.1" with "Section 3002.1.1." 3. Replace Table 1020.2 as shown: TABLE 1020.2 MINIMUM CORRIDOR WIDTH OCCUPANCY | MINIMUM WIDTH (inches) OCCUPANCY | MINIMUM WIDTH (inches) Any facility not listed in this table | 44 Access to and utilization of mechanical, plumbing or electrical systems or equipment | 24 With an occupant load of less than 50 | 36 Within or serving a single dwelling unit | 36 In Group E-1 corridors serving classrooms, study rooms or assembly rooms | 60 a In corridors and areas serving stretcher traffic in ambulatory care facilities | 72 Group I-2 in areas where required for bed movement | 96 For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. a. When lockers are installed in corridors, the full required clear width of the corridor shall be provided between locker doors when open. 4. Revise exception 2 to Section 1020.4 to read: "2. In occupancies in Groups B, E-2, F, I-1, M, R, S and U, where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the length of the dead-end corridors shall not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm)." 5. Revise Section 1020.5 including its exceptions to read: “1020.5 Air movement in corridors. Air movement in corridors shall comply with Section 601.2 of the Chicago Mechanical Code.” 6. [Reserved.] 7. Delete Section 1020.5.1. 8. Add a new Section 1020.7 to read: "1020.7 Toilet rooms. Separation shall not be required between a toilet room and a fire-resistance-rated corridor where the toilet room meets the following criteria: 1. The toilet room shall be separated from the remainder of the building by fire-resistance-rated construction meeting the requirements of Section 1020.1. 2. The toilet room shall not directly connect to any habitable space. 3. The toilet room shall not contain any fuel-fired equipment or appliances." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 49; Amend Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791, Art. II, § 24; Amend Coun. J. 1-24-24, p. 8634, Art. IV, § 4; Amend Coun. J. 6-17-26, p. 45214, Art. IV, § 33)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1021 Egress balconies.

14B-10-1021 Egress balconies. The provisions of Section 1021 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modification: 1. Revise Section 1021.4 to read: "1021.4 Location. Exterior egress balconies shall have a minimum fire separation distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) measured at right angles from the exterior edge of the egress balcony to: 1. The closest abutting property line. 2. The far side of a public way. 3. The exterior walls of other buildings on the same lot with openings that are not protected in accordance with Section 705 based on fire separation distance."

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1023 Interior exit stairways and ramps.

14B-10-1023 Interior exit stairways and ramps. The provisions of Section 1023 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise section 1023.2 by replacing "basements" with "basements and occupiable rooftops (even if not counted as stories for other purposes)." 2. Delete exception 3 to Section 1023.3.1. 3. Revise item 3 in Section 1023.5 to read: "3. Security systems covering the interior exit stairway or ramp." 4. Delete the exception to Section 1023.5. 5. Revise Section 1023.8 by replacing "an approved" with "a." 5.1. Insert a new Section 1023.9.2 to read: "1023.9.2 Designation. Stairways shall be designated using letters indicating the compass direction of the location of the stairway within the building. Exception: Letter-based designation schemes approved by the fire code official." 6. Delete Section 1023.10. 7. Delete Section 1023.11 and its subsections. (Amend Coun. J. 6-25-21, p. 32180, Art. II, § 19)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1024 Exit passageways.

14B-10-1024 Exit passageways. The provisions of Section 1024 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise item 3 in Section 1024.6 to read: "3. Security systems covering the exit passageway." 2. Delete the exception to Section 1024.6.

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1026 Horizontal exits.

14B-10-1026 Horizontal exits. The provisions of Section 1026 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modification: 1. Delete the exception to Section 1026.2. 2. Revise the exception to Section 1026.4.2 by replacing the initial "The" with "In Group I-3, the". (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 50)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1027 Exterior exit stairways and ramps.

14B-10-1027 Exterior exit stairways and ramps. The provisions of Section 1027 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise Section 1027.2 to read: "1027.2 Use in a means of egress. Exterior exit stairways shall not be used as an element of a required means of egress for Group I-2 occupancies. For occupancies in other than Group I-2, exterior exit stairways and exterior exit ramps shall be permitted as an element of a required means of egress for levels not more than 45 feet (13.7 m) above grade adjacent to the exterior exit stairway. 1027.2.1 Limitation. Not more than 50 percent of the number and minimum width or required capacity of means of egress components shall be provided using exterior exit stairways or exterior exit ramps. Exceptions: 1. Means of egress components only serving an occupiable rooftop. 2. Means of egress components only serving occupancies that are open to the atmosphere, such as open parking garages or Group A-5 occupancies. 3. Means of egress components serving a single basement, the first story above grade plane, or the second story above grade plane." 2. Revise Section 1027.5 to read: "1027.5 Location. Exterior exit stairways and exterior exit ramps shall have a minimum separation distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) measured at right angles from the exterior edge of the stairway or ramps, including landings, to: 1. The closest abutting property line. 2. The far side of a public way. 3. The exterior walls of other buildings on the same lot with openings that are not protected in accordance with Section 705 based on fire separation distance. Exceptions: 1. Exterior exit stairways, porches and exterior exit ramps serving not more than 4 stories or occupiable rooftops in Group R-2, R-3 and R-5 occupancies shall have a minimum separation distance of 3 feet (914 mm) if constructed of combustible materials; a separation distance is not required for exterior exit stairways, porches and exterior exit ramps constructed of entirely noncombustible materials. 2. On any side of an exterior exit stairway or exterior exit ramp protected by a solid wall with a fire- resistance rating of at least one hour that extends at least 3 feet (914 mm) beyond the exterior edge of adjacent sides and 8 feet (2438 mm) above the highest landing, the separation distance may be reduced to 3 feet (914 mm). 3. Exterior exit stairways and exterior exit ramps serving occupiable rooftops above portions of buildings not more than two stories above grade plane shall have a minimum separation distance of 5 feet (1525 mm). 4. Exterior exit stairways and ramps serving occupiable rooftops above portions of buildings not more than one story above grade plane and not more than 15 feet (4572 mm) above adjoining grade are not required to have a separation distance." 3. Revise exception 1 to Section 1027.6 to read: "1. Separation from the interior of the building is not required for occupancies, other than Group R-1, in buildings that are not more than two stories above grade plane where a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies is the first story above grade plane. 4. Revise exception 2 to Section 1027.6 by deleting "approved." 5. Revise exception 4 to Section 1027.6 to read: "4. In Group R-2, R-3, and R-5 occupancies not more than four stories above grade plane, exterior exit stairways and exterior exit ramps are not required to be separated from the interior of the building and openings are not limited where the exterior exit stairway or exterior exit ramp discharges directly to grade." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 51; Amend Coun. J. 1-26-22, p. 43756, Art. II, § 10)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1028 Exit discharge.

14B-10-1028 Exit discharge. The provisions of Section 1028 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Revise exception 1 to Section 1028.1 by replacing "through areas on the level of discharge" with "through a lobby or similar common area on the level of exit discharge." 1.1. Revise exception 1.1 to Section 1028.1 by replacing "from the point of termination of the enclosure." with "within 25 feet (7620 mm) and no more than two turns, each not exceeding 90 degrees (1.57 rad), from the point of termination of the enclosure. There shall be no dead-end corridors or similar conditions exceeding 10 feet (3048 mm) in length adjacent to the point of termination of the enclosure." 1.2. Revise exception 1.3 to Section 1028.1 by deleting "approved." 2. Add a new exception 4 to Section 1028.1 to read: "4. Up to 100 percent of the number, minimum width, and required capacity of interior exit stairways and exterior exit ramps is permitted to egress through a lobby or similar common area on the level of exit discharge provided that all of the following conditions are met: 4.1. Discharge of interior exit stairways and exterior exit ramps shall be provided with a free and unobstructed path of travel to at least two distinct exterior exit doors and each exterior exit door is readily visible and identifiable within 25 feet (7620 mm) and no more than two turns, each not exceeding 90 degrees (1.57 rad), from the point of termination of the enclosure. There shall be no dead-end corridors or similar conditions exceeding 10 feet (3048 mm) in length adjacent to the point of termination of the enclosure. 4.2. The entire area of the level of exit discharge is separated from areas below by construction conforming to the fire-resistance rating for the enclosure. 4.3. The building is protected throughout by an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. 4.4. Means of egress components are separated in accordance with Exception 1.4." 3. Revise Section 1028.3 to read: "1028.3 Exit discharge components. Exterior exit discharge components shall be sufficiently open to the atmosphere so as to minimize the accumulation of smoke and toxic gases." 4. Revise Section 1028.4.1 by replacing "Group R-3 and U occupancies" with "Group R-3, R-5 and U occupancies and Group R-2 occupancies in buildings with no more than 4 stories above grade plane." 5. Revise exception 2 to Section 1028.4.2 by replacing "Group R-3" with "Group R-3 or R 5." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 52; Amend Coun. J. 1-26-22, p. 43756, Art. II, § 11; Amend Coun. J. 12-14-22, p. 58278, Art. III, § 5)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1029 Assembly.

14B-10-1029 Assembly. The provisions of Section 1029 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications: 1. Delete the exceptions to Section 1029.1.1.1. 2. Revise Section 1029.2 by replacing "10 feet (3048 mm)" with "20 feet (6096 mm)." 3. Delete Section 1029.3. 4. Revise Section 1029.6 to read: "1029.6 Capacity of aisle for assembly. The required capacity of aisles shall be not less than that determined in accordance with Section 1029.6.1 where indoor assembly seating is provided and Section 1029.6.3 where open-air assembly seating is provided." 5. Revise the title and first sentence of Section 1029.6.1 to read: "1029.6.1 Indoor assembly seating. The required capacity in inches (mm) of the aisles for indoor assembly seating shall be not less than the occupant load served by the egress element in accordance with all of the following, as applicable:" 6. Delete Section 1029.6.2 and its subsections. 7. Delete Table 1029.6.2. 8. [Reserved.] 9. [Reserved.] 10. Delete exception 1 (and its subparts) to Section 1029.7. 11. Revise exception 2 to Section 1029.8 by deleting "smoke-protected or." 12. Revise the exception to Section 1029.8.1 by deleting "smoke-protected or." 13. Revise exceptions 3 and 4 to Section 1029.9.5 by deleting "smoke-protected or." 14. Revise the exception to Section 1029.13.2.1 by deleting "smoke-protected or." 15. Revise Table 1029.13.2.1 by deleting "SMOKE-PROTECTED OR." 16. Revise the exception to Section 1029.13.2.2 by deleting "smoke-protected or." 17. Revise exception 3 to Section 1029.15 by replacing "three" with "five." 18. Revise exception 4 to Section 1029.15 to read: "4. In a building, room or space used for assembly purposes where flexibility of the seating arrangement is an integral part of the design and function of the space and seating is on tiered levels, up to 200 seats shall not be required to be fastened to the floor. Plans showing seating, tiers and aisles shall be submitted to the fire code official for review." (Amend Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14473, Art. II, § 53)

Municipal Code of Chicago § 14B-10-1031 Frontage and fire department access requirements for Group E-1.

14B-10-1031 Frontage and fire department access requirements for Group E-1. The following language is adopted as a new Section 1031: "1031. FRONTAGE AND FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS REQUIREMENTS FOR GROUP E-1 1031.1 Frontage requirement. The portion of a building containing a Group E-1 occupancy shall abut the number and type of public ways or yards specified in Table 1031.1. For purposes of this section, each side shall be at least 12 percent of the perimeter of the occupancy. The width of required public ways and yards shall be measured as provided in Section 506.3. TABLE 1031.1 FRONTAGE REQUIREMENTS Occupant Load of Group E-1 Occupancy | Minimum Number of Sides Abutting a Public Way or Yard Public Way at Least 30 Feet Wide | Public Way or Yard at Least 10 Feet Wide Up to 100 | 1 | 0 101 to 500 | 1 | 1 501 to 1,000 | 1 | 2 1,001 to 2,500 | 2 | 1 More than 2,500 | 3 | 1 For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. 1031.2 Fire department access panels. Where the exterior wall on any story of a Group E-1 occupancy exceeds 100 linear feet (30.5 m) without windows, doorways or similar openings, fire department access panels shall be provided at intervals not exceeding 50 feet (15.2 m). Exception: Exterior walls of auditoriums, assembly halls, field houses, gymnasiums, swimming pools, and theater areas. 1031.2.1 Dimensions. Fire department access panels shall be not less than 32 inches (812.8 mm) wide and 48 inches (1219.2 mm) high. Fire department access panels shall be located not more than 32 inches (812.8 mm) above the floor. 1031.2.2 Construction. Fire department access panels shall be approved by the fire code official and constructed of materials and installed in such a manner to be readily removed by the fire department. (Added Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791, Art. II, § 25)
Source: City of Chicago, Municipal Code of Chicago (American Legal Publishing, codelibrary.amlegal.com)URL: https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/chicago/latest/chicago_il/0-0-0-2664491Fetched: 10/24/2026

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