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Commercial Pavilion 30 x 36

ajacobson

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Joined
Jul 29, 2024
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2
Location
Connecticut
Would someone be able to help me classify which type of building a commercial pavilion would be? I am putting together some guidelines for a 30 x 36 ft pavilion for a park but the language in the 2024 codes don't seem to include this type of structure. I am thinking A-2 or A-5 would apply, but the structures given as examples for these classifications are a bit more extreme than what I'm going for. People may eat at these pavilions (pre-prepared meals like sandwiches or snacks) but cooking stations will not be included.
 
A3 is kind of the "junk drawer" of A occupancies.....Glad to see more CT folks here. especially from the design side...Just a wide open pavilion with no rooms in it?
 
Would someone be able to help me classify which type of building a commercial pavilion would be? I am putting together some guidelines for a 30 x 36 ft pavilion for a park but the language in the 2024 codes don't seem to include this type of structure. I am thinking A-2 or A-5 would apply, but the structures given as examples for these classifications are a bit more extreme than what I'm going for. People may eat at these pavilions (pre-prepared meals like sandwiches or snacks) but cooking stations will not be included.
I would have thought A-5 because it is (presumably) open, the examples for A-3 are all indoor spaces.

Here’s a thread with a similar question, steveray posted a quote from the commentary which might be helpful.

 
A3 is kind of the "junk drawer" of A occupancies....
I agree with the "junk drawer" classification approach

302.1 Occupancy classification.
........... Where a structure is proposed for a purpose that is not specifically listed in this section, such structure shall be classified in the occupancy it most nearly resembles based on the fire safety and relative hazard.

303.4 Assembly Group A-3.
Group A-3 occupancy includes assembly uses intended for worship, recreation or amusement and other assembly uses not classified elsewhere in Group A including, but not limited to:
 
I would have thought A-5 because it is (presumably) open, the examples for A-3 are all indoor spaces.

Here’s a thread with a similar question, steveray posted a quote from the commentary which might be helpful.

But A5 is viewing outdoor activities:


303.6 Assembly Group A-5​

Diagram
Group A-5 occupancy includes assembly uses intended for participation in or viewing outdoor activities including, but not limited to:
 
Sounds like A-3 to me. Remember, it doesn't matter whether or not it has enclosing walls. Usable/occupiable areas beneath a roof are nonetheless counted as building area.
 
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