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Outdoor Pool - IBC

LGreene

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Joined
Oct 20, 2009
Messages
1,165
Location
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
I'm trying to answer a question about egress requirements for an outdoor pool, and the architect has said that the pool gates are not required to meet the IBC requirements for free egress. The 2015 IBC and Commentary say:

101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.

Commentary: This section establishes when the regulations contained in the code must be followed, whether all or in part…This applies to all such structures, whether or not there are lot lines separating them, and also to accessory structures such as garages and pools.

This is an outdoor pool that is part of an activity center for a residential development. The building has a fitness center, locker rooms, a community room, and the outdoor pool. My questions are:

a) Are the pool gates required to meet the IBC requirements for egress doors and gates?

b) If yes, what use group would an outdoor pool fall into?

Thanks in advance!
 
1008.2 Gates.

Gates serving the means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Gates used as a component in a means of egress shall conform to the applicable requirements for doors.

Not super clean, but pool area, outdoor dining, etc, would typically all have gates that would meet egress requirements. And for that matter gated sites that do not have the designated "rally point" or whatever the IBC calls it and need egress to a public way..If it is an occupied space, it needs egress IMO

MEANS OF EGRESS. A continuous and unobstructed path of vertical and horizontal egress travel from any occupied portion of a building or structure to a public way. A means of egress consists of three separate and distinct parts: the exit access, the exit and the exit discharge.

The pool/ pool area is an occupied structure therefore it requires compliant egress...
 
STRUCTURE. That which is built or constructed.

Guess my dog's dog house needs a bigger door?
 
Unless you have a really big dog.....

[A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit.

Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

Building:

1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area is not greater than 120 square feet (11 m2).
 
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