Line used to determine fire separation distance....

[JZegowitz]

On a large lot with many multi-family buildings, where is the line between two buildings placed for determining fire separation distance? Must this line be equidistant to both buildings?

 

[RLGA]

Quite litterally, anywhere you want it to be, as long as each building on either side of the imaginary line complies with the opening and exterior wall requirements for the fire separation distances determined based on the final location of the imaginary line.

 

[JZegowitz]

Quite litterally, anywhere you want it to be, as long as each building on either side of the imaginary line complies with the opening and exterior wall requirements for the fire separation distances determined based on the final location of the imaginary line.

Thank you RLGA!

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

Quite litterally, anywhere you want it to be, as long as each building on either side of the imaginary line complies with the opening and exterior wall requirements for the fire separation distances determined based on the final location of the imaginary line.

I pretty much agree. What it really means is that the designer chooses where to draw the line, and then the fire-resistance ratings and percentage of protected and unprotected openings in the walls of both buildings that face the line have to meet the code. The line must be shown on the construction drawings, and becomes part of the building record. This means if you max out one building in regard to openings, nobody can come back later and add a few more windows.