Mixed use/Unlimited space/Accessory occupancies

[Code]

Hi all,

We got a commercial project coming into our area with a huge footprint. S2/B/A2 The cafeteria area is larger than most standalone restaurants we get for permit. I'm having some issue allowing the accessory occupancy provisions to override the requirements of 507.3.1 that call for separation and exits directly to the exterior. Because of the square footage, the A2 itself could be a monster.

Since the code specifically calls out A-1 and A-2 occupancies for unlimited area buildings and limits their size to the max allowed by 503, then depending on what other areas were considered accessory these would almost always be considered accessory to the primary and would never need to make the conditions of 507.3.1. I'm interested to see if anyone is not allowing the accessory occupancy sections to be used in unlimited area buildings for A-1 and A-2 uses.

 

[Mr. Inspector]

Don't know what code you are using but the 2009 IBC if the building is one story and sprinklered this section seems to require separation per 508.4.4 since it only says other occupancies but does not say anything about accessory occuoancies.

07.3.1 Mixed occupancy buildings with Groups A-1 and A-2.
Group A-1 and A-2 occupancies of other than Type V construction shall be permitted within mixed occupancy buildings of unlimited area complying with Section 507.3, provided:
1. Group A-1 and A-2 occupancies are separated from other occupancies as required for separated occupancies in Section 508.4.4 with no reduction allowed in the fire-resistance rating of the separation based upon the installation of an automatic sprinkler system ;
2. Each area of the portions of the building used for Group A-1 or A-2 occupancies shall not exceed the maximum allowable area permitted for such occupancies in Section 503.1; and
3. All exit doors from Group A-1 and A-2 occupancies shall discharge directly to the exterior of the building.