California’s largest cities are readying building code changes that will allow single-stairwell multifamily buildings up to six stories tall.
This code alteration is intended to spur more apartment developments with affordable, family-sized units. The code change originated with a proposal by a Los Angeles City Council member.
San Diego and San Francisco city officials are reportedly exploring similar reforms. California passed AB 835 last year, a law that directs the State Fire Marshal to develop standards for single-stair multifamily buildings with more than three stories by 2028. This would make single-stairwell multifamily development legal statewide.
Current codes require four-to-six story apartment buildings to have two stairwells with a hallway connecting the stairwells on every floor. The resulting dual-loaded corridor buildings tend to limit the size of apartments. This design approach also costs more to build than multifamily buildings with a centrally located stairwell that serves as a fire exit.
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