Required distance behind accessible seat not on egress path

[redeyedfly]

Granted but where the 2017 is more restrictive than the 2009, it might be better design to use the 2017. I can't speak for every situation and condition, but the minimum sizes for wheelchair spaces and maneuvering space have generally increased in 2017, usually for good reasons. But then I'm a designer and consider code minimums a necessary condition but rarely sufficient for good design.

I would certainly discuss using an optional, more restrictive, code with your clients before designing to them.

While your attitude may be admirable to some, the choice to go above code is not yours, it is the choice of whoever is paying for it.

 

[Stanovby]

I would certainly discuss using an optional, more restrictive, code with your clients before designing to them.

While your attitude may be admirable to some, the choice to go above code is not yours, it is the choice of whoever is paying for it.

Thanks. I was not trying to go above code, I was trying to do what is required. One thing is, we dont do these seating plans, this is done by an outside firm hired by our client. I am just trying to make sure we dont get kicked out of permit or worse. I may have not interpreted things 100% correctly. That's why I love this forum, I am learning a lot that I didn't know before.

 

[bill1952]

I would certainly discuss using an optional, more restrictive, code with your clients before designing to them.

While your attitude may be admirable to some, the choice to go above code is not yours, it is the choice of whoever is paying for it.

I disagree. In the type of buildings I work on - performing arts theatres - most owners have no idea of what's required or what's good. I've been hired for my expertise to help them build the best possible theatre within their budget. They selected me based on my previous experience and usually we tour some of those together, to discover their preferences. I make design choices for them based on that and review those choices with those users. These are btw most often high school band, choir, and drama teachers along with administrators and facility people.

I'm actually repulsed by the concept of designing to code minimums.

One example: if I designed to code minimums for restrooms serving a theatre, the women would be screaming at me. Another, the code 18" x 32" per person on bleachers is just a fairy tale. Using self rising seats that fold very compactly and allowing the minimum 12" clear between rows would not permit most people to sit, yet it complies with code. There's no end to the deficiencies in the code for good design.