Building Construction Services
Notices & Updates
GARAGE EGRESS ALLOWED
Effective Date: 8/10/2007
Category: HURRICANE SHUTTERS
Details:
Clarification of 2004 FBC, 2006 Addendum
A change in the 2006 addendum of the 2004 Florida Building Code allows for egress through a garage of a dwelling unit provided it has a side hinge door leading directly to the exterior
1008.1.3.6
The temporary installation or closure of storm shutters, panels and other approved hurricane protection devices shall be permitted on emergency escape and rescue openings in Group R occupancies during the threat of a storm. Such devices shall not be required to comply with the operational constraints of Section 1025.4. While such protection is provided, at least one means of escape from the dwelling or dwelling unit shall be provided. The means of escape shall be within the first floor of the dwelling or dwelling unit and shall not be located within a garage without a side hinge door leading directly to the exterior. Occupants in any part of the dwelling or dwelling unit shall be able to access the means of escape without passing through a lockable door not under their control.
R310.4 Bars, grills, covers and screens.
Bars, grills, covers, screens or similar devices are permitted to be placed over emergency escape and rescue openings, bulkhead enclosures, or window wells that serve such openings, provided the minimum net clear opening size complies with Sections R310.1.1 to R310.1.3, and such devices shall be releasable or removable from the inside without the use of a key, tool or force greater than that which is required for normal operation of the escape and rescue opening. The temporary installation or closure of storm shutters, panels, and other approved hurricane protection devices shall be permitted on emergency escape and rescue openings during the threat of a storm. Such devices shall not be required to comply with the operational constraints of Section R310.1.4. While such protection is provided, at least one means of escape from the dwelling or dwelling unit shall be provided. The means of escape shall be within the first floor of the dwelling or dwelling unit and shall not be located within a garage without a side hinge door leading directly to the exterior. Occupants in any part of the dwelling or dwelling unit shall be able to access the means of escape without passing through a lockable door not under their control.
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Charlotte County Building Constructions Services
Permitting, Plans Review, and Inspection Divisions
18400 Murdock Circle
Port Charlotte, Florida 33948-1074
Phone: 941.743.1201
Fax: 941.764.4108
