Change of Occupancy

[Chad Pasquini]

Ok, we have a property owner who has a building that is over 100 years old, who has a set of plans that says "Studio" for 2nd floor, it has never been heated by mechanical means and now she wants to add a furnace for a "Yoga Studio", we are requiring Chapter 34 for change of occupancy as far as we can tell was only used for "artists", it has two exit stairways that were constructed as 1hr, but forget that for now as we will have other issues with exits hopefully addressed by us on site visits. Question does accessibility come into play here, if so please explain code sections and thoughts.

 

[steveray]

How big is the mezzanine?.......Accessibility definitely comes into play, to what extent is the question....

Start here....

3409.3 Change of occupancy.

Existing buildings, or portions thereof, that undergo a change of group or occupancy shall have all of the following accessible features:

1. At least one accessible building entrance.

2. At least one accessible route from an accessible building entrance to primary function areas.

3. Signage complying with Section 1110.

4. Accessible parking, where parking is being provided.

5. At least one accessible passenger loading zone, when loading zones are provided.

6. At least one accessible route connecting accessible parking and accessible passenger loading zones to an accessible entrance.

Where it is technically infeasible to comply with the new construction standards for any of these requirements for a change of group or occupancy, the above items shall conform to the requirements to the maximum extent technically feasible. Change of group or occupancy that incorporates any alterations or additions shall comply with this section and Sections 3409.4, 3409.5, 3409.6 and 3409.7.