Ch. 1 Section 105.2.8 interpretation

[sikeston]

I am looking at opening an escape room business. Our plan calls for "strike-able" sets that can be moved to another location after the theme and room have run their course in the location. The space we are looking to lease is a large 2,500 sq/ft basement of a building erected in 1929.

Per the local fire marshal's instruction, we are designing the space that allows for a "B" occupancy. This means that we would have an occupancy load of 50.

There are two means of egress to stairs to the outside at grade.

So, here's my question: if we design the space in a way that doesn't change the structure of the space in any way, with the "sets" (or rooms) to be temporary and movable, would this space fall under the 105.2 exception of the IBC that states:

"Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery" would be exempted from needing a building permit and/or review?

The IBC wording seems VERY vague. What constitutes a "set?" And what is "temporary?"

Thanks in advance for your expert insight.

 

[cda]

Welcome

Temp is normally considered 30 days

Suggest you have rooms and just change the decor/ theme in each room

Much simpler

 

[cda]

Does the basement have a fire sprinkler system??

 

[sikeston]

It doesn't have a sprinkler system, which is why we have to keep the occupancy limit to 50.

 

[Francis Vineyard]

Even if the "strike-able" set (whatever that is) had was approved in accordance with Section 104.9 it would still require a permit for inspection that would include drawings for review similarly with amusement rides or playground equipment inside of malls IMO.

Escape rooms invites the general public to participate in games. A permit is necessary to assure life/safety for guest, public or audience participation and first responders that would not be familiar with the space in the event of emergency.

In reference to the exception #8 to my knowledge these areas are limited to the equipment in employee areas.

 

[JCraver]

How are you doing it in a basement? No ADA in Missouri?

Back to your question - does your jurisdiction enforce the IFC? If so, look at 105.6.2 - Amusement Buildings (2015)

What was this building before? Is your new B occ. a change of use? IBC - 102.6.1 (2015)

 

[TheCommish]

Check Special amusement buildings 411.2 of 2015 edition IBC

 

[cda]

It doesn't have a sprinkler system, which is why we have to keep the occupancy limit to 50.

Not requiring one because of size ???

 

[cda]

The special amusement can be by passed,,

If the escape rooms are set up correctly

 

[ICE]

What measures are taken to aid egress during an emergency? Are lights and door openers interlocked with smoke/fire alarms?

 

[cda]

If they set it up so a door you come in is a door you can go out, with one operation

Or any door you see is openable with one operation, you should be good to go.

You just tell them up front

You open the door before all clues are found

You Lose!!!

 

[ADAguy]

Basement is not accessible, provide an elevator.

 

[my250r11]

Clipped from: https://codes.iccsafe.org/public/document/IBC2015/chapter-1-scope-and-administration



Clipped from: https://codes.iccsafe.org/public/document/IBC2015/chapter-1-scope-and-administration



Alter, change of occupancy, life safety all require permits. We consider any reconfiguration of space as requiring a permit.

 

[mtlogcabin]

Basement is 2,500 sq ft and does not have to be accessible if there are no other non-accessible levels that would total over the 3,000 aggregate sq ft requirement for accessibility


1104.4 Multilevel buildings and facilities.
At least one accessible route shall connect each accessible level, including mezzanines, in multilevel buildings and facilities.

Exceptions:

1. An accessible route is not required to stories and mezzanines that have an aggregate area of not more than 3,000 square feet (278.7 m2) and are located above and below accessible levels.