(e) Notwithstanding paragraph (d) of this Section, this Code shall apply to

(a) This Act shall be known as the "National Building Code of the Philippines" Group A dwellings produced on a commercial scale and intended for use by
and shall hereinafter be referred to as the "Code". the general public.

SECTION 1.01.02: Declaration of Policy SECTION 1.01.05 Building Use Affecting Public Health and Safety

(a) It is hereby declared to be the policy of the State to safeguard life, health, (a) Any building or structure, or any ancillary or accessory facility thereto,
property, and public welfare, consistent with the principles of environmental and any alteration or addition to any building or structure already existing,
management and control; and to this end, make it the purpose of this Code shall conform in all respects to the principles of safe construction, shall be
to provide for all buildings and structured, a framework of minimum suited to the purpose for which the building is designed, and shall, in no case
standards and requirements by guiding, regulating, and controlling their contribute to making the community in which it is located at eyesore, a slum,
location, siting, design, quality of materials, construction, use, occupancy, or a blighted area.
and maintenance, including their environment, utilities, fixtures, equipment,
and mechanical electrical, and other systems and installations. (b) Adequate environmental safeguards shall be observed in the design,
construction, and use of any building or structure for the manufacture and
SECTION 1.01.03: Scope production of any kind of article or product which constitutes a hazard or
nuisance affecting public health and safety, such as explosives, gas, noxious
(a) The provisions of this Code shall apply to the design, location, siting, chemicals, inflammable compounds, or the like.
construction, alteration, repair, conversion, use, occupancy, maintenance,
moving, and demolition of, and addition to, public and private buildings and SECTION 1.01.06: Maintenance
structures.
(a) All buildings or structures, both existing and new, and all parts thereof
(b) Additions, alterations, repairs, and changes of use or occupancy in all shall be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition. All devices or
buildings and structures shall comply with requirements for new buildings safeguards, which are required by this Code in a building or structure when
and structures except as otherwise herein provided. Only such portion or constructed, altered, or repaired, shall be maintained on good working order.
portions of the existing building or structure which have to be altered to
effect the addition, alteration, or repair shall be made to conform to the SECTION 1.01.07: Insanitary, Unsafe, Hazardous, or Dangerous Sites
requirements for new buildings or structures. Alterations should preserve the
aesthetic value of the building to be altered. (a) The land or site upon which will be constructed any building or structure,
or any ancillary or auxillary facility thereto, shall be sanitary , hygienic or safe.
(c) Where, in any specific case, different section of this Code specify different Where the land or site is polluted, insanitary, unhygienic, unsafe, or
materials, methods of construction, or other requirements, the most hazardous, conditions contributing to or causing its being polluted,
restrictive shall govern. insanitary, unhygienic, unsafe, or hazardous shall be reasonably improved or
corrected, or proper remedial measures shall be prescribed or incorporated
SECTION 1.01.04: Application in the design or construction of the building or structure in accordance with
the provisions of this Code.
(a) This Code shall apply to all buildings and structures constructed and any
change or repair made thereon after the approval of said Code. Buildings or (b) The land or site upon which be constructed a building of structure or any
structures constructed before the approval of this Code shall not be affected ancillary or accessory facility thereto, for use of human habitation or abode,
thereby; Except, where their continued use or occupancy is dangerous to life shall be at a safe distance from streamers or bodies of water and/source of
or limb; or where alterations, additions, conversions, or repairs are to be air considered to be polluted, volcano or volcanic site, and building or
made thereon, this Code shall apply only to such portions of the buildings or structure considered to be a potential source of fire or explosion, such as
structure which have to be altered in order to effect such damages or ammunitions factory or dump and storage place for highly inflammable
repairs. material.

(b) This Code shall apply to chartered cities, poblaciones of municipalities and SECTION 1.01.08: Dangerous and Ruinous Buildings or Structures
municipal districts with a population of at least two thousand (2,000)
inhabitants, and to barrios of urban areas with a population of at least two (a) General. - The provisions of this Code shall apply to all dangerous
thousand (2,000) inhabitants. This Code shall also apply to any area where buildings, as herein defined, which are now in existence or which may
there are fifty (50) or more families per hectare. hereafter be constructed, as well as to ruinous buildings as defined in Article
482 of the Civil Code of the Philippines. chan robles virtual law library
(c) This Code shall likewise apply to any area proposed for or being
developed into a new town site, residential subdivision, commercial or (b) Dangerous Buildings Defined. - Dangerous buildings are those which are
residential site, school site, housing project, and similar construction projects structurally unsafe or not provided with safe egrees, or which constitute a
where five or more buildings not covered by paragraph (d) of this Section will fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life, or which in relation to
be constructed even if the poblacion or barrio population is less than two existing use constitute a hazard to safety or health or public welfare, by
thousand (2,000) or the density of population is less than fifty (50) families reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, obsolescence, fire hazard,
per hectare. or abandonment; or which otherwise contribute to the pollution of the site
or the community to an intolerable degree. Any building or structure which
(d) The design and construction requirements of this Code shall not apply to has any or all of the conditions or defects hereinafter described, or
any traditional indigenous family dwelling costing not more than five conditions or defects similar thereto, shall be deemed to be dangerous
thousand pesos (P5,000.00) and intended for use and occupancy of the building: Provided, That such conditions or defect exists to the extent that
family of the owner only. The traditional type of family dwellings are those the life, health, property, or safety of the public or its occupant are
that are constructed of native materials such as bamboo, nipa, logs, or endangered:
lumber, wherein the distance between vertical supports or suportales does
not exceed 3.00 meters (10 feet); and if masonry walls or socalos are used,
such shall not be more than 1.00 meter (3 feet, 3 inches) from the ground: (1) Whenever any door, aisle, passageway, stairway, or other means of exist
Provided, however, That such traditional indigenous family dwelling will not is not of sufficient width or size, or is not so arranged as to provide safe and
constitute a danger to life or limb of its occupants or of the public; will not be adequate means of exit in case of fire or panic;
fire hazard or an eyesore to the community; and does not contravene any
fire zoning regulation of the city or municipality in which it is located. chan (2) Whenever the stress in any materials member or portion thereof, due to
robles virtual law library all dead and live loads is more than one and one-half times the working
stresses or stresses allowed in this Code for new building of similar structure,
purpose, or location: Provided, That in determining working stress, the (1) Where the dangerous building can reasonably be repaired such that it will
working stress method of analysis shall be used, and in the case of no longer be dangerous, it shall be ordered repaired;
engineering "overstress", the ultimate strength method;
(2) Where the dangerous building is such that to repair it would cost more
(3) Whenever any portion thereof has been damaged by fire, earthquake, than 50 per cent of the current to replacement cost of the building, it shall be
wind, flood, or by any other cause, to such an extent that the structural repaired or demolished at the opinion of the owner;
strength or the stability thereof is materially less than it was before such
catastrophe and is less than the minimum requirements of this Code for new (3) Where the dangerous building poses an immediate threat to life, limb, or
buildings of similar structures, purpose, or location; property, it shall be vacated immediately, then repaired or demolished in
accordance with subparagraphs (1) or (2) herein.
(4) Whenever any portion or member or appurtenance thereof is likely to
fall, or to become detached or dislodged, or to collapse and thereby injure
persons or damage property; SECTION 1.01.09. Alternate or new Design, Material, Method of
Construction, or Workmanship; Tests:
(5) Whenever any portion or member or any appurtenance or ornamentation
of the exterior thereof is not of such sufficient strength or stability, or is not (a) Any design, material, method of construction, or workmanship not
so anchored, attached, or fastened - place so as to be capable of resisting a specifically included in this Code may be used: Provided, That such alternate
wind pressure of one-half of that specified in this Code for new buildings of or new design, material, method of construction, or workmanship is at least
similar structure; purpose, or location without exceeding the working the equivalent of those prescribed in this Code in effectiveness.
stresses permitted for such buildings;
(b) Tests for design, materials, method of construction, or workmanship shall
(6) Whenever any portion thereon has wracked, warped, buckled, or settled be prescribed by the Secretary of Public Works and Communication in
to such an extent that walls or other structural portions have materially less appropriate rules and regulations therefor.
resistance to winds or earthquake than is required in the case similar new
construction; SECTION 1.01.10: Municipal and Provincial Ordinances and Regulations

(7) Whenever the building or structure, or any portion thereof, because of: (i) (a) Local ordinances should conform to the Code and suppletory
dilapidation, deterioration, or delay; (ii) faulty construction; (iii) the removal, requirements hereto shall in no case diminish minimum requirements
movement, or instability of any portion of the ground necessary for the embodied in this Code. The Secretary of Public Works and Communications
purpose of supporting such building; (iv) the deterioration, decay, or or, in the proper case, the Secretary of Justice shall take any and all
inadequacy of its foundation; or (v) any other cause, is likely to partially or appropriate steps in cases where local ordinances conflict with the Code.
completely collapse;
SECTION 1.01.11: Definitions and Tables
(8) Whenever, for any reason, the building or structure, or any portion
thereof, is manifestly unsafe for the purpose for which it is being used; (a) The definitions in Annex A and the Tables in Annex B of this Code are
hereby adopted as part thereof.
(9) Whenever the exterior walls or other vertica structural members list,
lean, or buckle to such an extent that the structure falls within the condition SECTION 1.01.12: Separability Clause
described in the preceding subparagraph (2), above, or whenever any
portion thereof suffers a material reduction of the fire and weather (a) If, for any reason, any section or provision of this Code shall be declared
resistance qualities of characteristics required by this Code for newly unconstitutional or invalid, no other section or provision of this Code shall be
constructed buildings of like area, height, and occupancy in the same affected thereby.
location;
SECTION 1.01.13: Repealing Clause
(10) Whenever a building or structure, used or intended to be used for
dwelling purposes, because of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, decay, (a) Any and all statutes, orders, ordinances, rules and regulations or parts
damage, faulty construction or arrangement, inadequate light, air, or thereof, inconsistent with the provisions of this Code, are hereby repealed or
sanitation facilities, or otherwise, is found to be unsanitary, unfit for human modified accordingly.
habitation, or in such a condition that is likely to cause sickness or disease;
chan robles virtual law library SECTION 1.01.14: Effectivity

(11) Whenever any building or structure, because of obsolescence, (a) This Code shall take effect upon its approval within the Greater Manila
dilapidated, condition, deterioration, damage, inadequate exists, lack of Metropolitan Area and in other areas where there are already existing local
sufficient fire-resistive construction, or other cause, is found to be a fire building codes, and four (4) years thereafter, in all other areas in the
hazard; Philippines: Provided, however, That this provision shall not prevent any city
or municipal council or board from adopting this Code immediately upon its
(12) Whenever any portion of a building or structure remains on a site after approval.
demolition or destruction of the building or structure is abandoned for a
period in excess of six months, so as to constitute a nuisance or hazard to the Chapter 1.02 - ENFORCEMENT
public;
SECTION 1.02.01: Joint Building and Environmental Planning Research and
(13) Whenever any building or structure is in such a condition as to Standards Commission
constitute a public nuisance defined in Article 694 and 695 of the Civil Code
of the Philippines. (a) Membership. There is hereby created a Joint Building and Environmental
Planning Research and Standards Commission composed of two Senators,
two Congressmen, and five other members to be appointed by the President
(c) Abatement of Dangerous Buildings. In all cases of dangerous buildings, of the Philippines. The members shall elect a Chairman from among
except those covered by Article 482 and 694 to 707 of the Civil Code of the themselves.
Philippines, the Building Official shall order their repair, vacation, or
demolition in accordance with the following procedure:
(1) The President of the Senate shall designate the chairman of the
Committee on Housing, Urban Development and Resettlement and one
Senator from the minority party as members of the Commission.
 under the supervision of the Secretary of Public Works and Communications,
(2) The Speaker of the House of Representatives shall designate the any provision of law to the contrary notwithstanding.
Chairman of the Committee on Housing and one Congressman from the
minority party as members of the Commission. (c) Subject to the approval of the Municipal Mayor, City Mayor, or Provincial
Governor in the proper case, and other civil service laws and rules, the
(3) The President of the Philippines shall appoint two architects, two Building Official may appoint such number of officers, inspectors, assistants,
engineers, and one building contractor chosen from those officially or other employees possessing the necessary qualifications and competency
recommended by their respective national professional organizations, to as may be authorized by the Municipal Council, City Council, or Provincial
serve for four years or until their successors shall have been duly appointed Board, as the case may be. He may deputize such technically qualified
and qualified. employees as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Code. For
purposes of this Subsection, the terms "necessary qualifications and
(4) The members thereof shall serve without compensation: except, That the competency" and "technically qualified" shall mean that the person to be
members from the professional organizations may receive a per diem of one deputized shall have passed the highest grade of examination called for in
hundred pesos (P100.00) each per meeting actually attended: Provided, That the applicable law regulating the practice of the branch of engineering or
the total per diem the members may receive shall not exceed six hundred architecture related to or associated with the duties and powers which the
pesos (P600.00) per month. A monthly transportation allowance of two person to be deputized shall assume.
hundred fifty pesos (P250.00) shall be granted each of the members from the
professional organizations. SECTION 1.02.03: Building permits

(a) Any person, firm, or corporation, including any department, office,

(b) Duties and Responsibilities. The Commission shall have the following bureau, agency of instrumentality of the government intending to construct,
duties and responsibilities: alter, repair, move, convert or demolish any building or structure, or cause
the same to be done, shall obtain a building permit from the Building Official
for whichever of such work is proposed to be undertaken for the building or
(1) Conduct or cause to be conducted continuing research and studies on structure, before any such work is started.
building, housing, and environmental planning standards and requirements
to safeguard life or limb, health, property, and public welfare; (b) Appropriate rules and regulations shall be set by the Secretary
concerning:
(2) Prepare a draft of a uniform code of criteria, standards, and detailed
specifications covering design, construction, and other related matters suited
to local needs and indigenous conditions for adoption by local governments (1) Forms for application for building permits;
to supplement the minimum standards provided in this Code; (2) Procedures to be observed in securing such permits;
(3) Procedures to be observed in the issuance, suspension, and revocation of
(3) Prepare drafts of environmental planning, management and control such building permits; and
codes, subdivision policies and standards, zoning regulations and other codes (4) Type, nature, and scope of plans and specifications, and other requisite
for legislative enactment; and recommend, from time to time, changes in this documents, which shall be prepared and designed by a licensed architect or
Building Code for submission to Congress; and engineer.

(4) Transmit appropriate recommendation to the Secretary of Public Works

and Communications as a basis for the promulgation by the Secretary of the (c) When authorized by the Building Official in accordance with the
necessary rules and regulations to carry out the provisions of this Code. provisions of this Code, plans and specifications need not be submitted for
the following:

(c) Technical Staff. The Commission shall be assisted by a Technical Staff

which shall be headed by an Executive Director and an Assistant Executive (1) Group A traditional indigenous type of dwelling construction costing not
Director. All personnel shall be appointed by the Chairman subject to civil more than three thousand pesos (P3,000.00); and
service laws, rules, and regulations.
(2) Group J Division 1 Occupancy of Type 1 conventional wood frame
(d) Appropriations. The amount of two hundred and fifty thousand pesos construction or of the traditional indigenous type of construction costing not
(P250,000) or such amount thereof as may be necessary for the operation of more than three thousand pesos (P3,000.00).
the Commission is hereby authorized to be appropriated out of any funds not
otherwise appropriated for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1973. Such sums
may be necessary for the operating expenses of the Commission in (d) The applicant for a building permit for private buildings or structures after
succeeding fiscal years shall be included in the annual General having complied with all the requirements prescribed therefor in accordance
Appropriations Act. with the provisions of this Code, shall be issued a building permit within
fifteen (15) days from the date of payment of the permit fee for Groups A
SECTION 1.02.02: Secretary of Public Works and Communications and and J Occupancies and within thirty (30) days from the date of payment of
Building Officials the permit fee for other Group Occupancies, unless the Building Official or
his Deputy authorized to issue the permit shall inform the applicant in writing
(a) The Secretary of Public Works and Communications, hereinafter referred why the permit should not be issued, and shall indicate thereon the
to as the "Secretary", shall promulgate such rules and regulations necessary particular provisions of the Code violated by the applicant or the particular
to enable the Building Official to enforce the provisions of this Code. requirements not complied with. Within fifteen (15) days from the date of
receipt by the applicant of advice from the Building Official or his Deputy
(b) In municipalities, the Municipal Engineer shall be the Building Official; authorized to issue the permit why the building permit should not be issued,
Provided, That when there is no such Municipal Engineer, or a duly licensed or why the building permit is suspended or revoked, the applicant may
engineer performing the duties of a Municipal Engineer, or a Land and appeal the non-issuance, suspension, or revocation thereof, to the Mayor of
Building Official, the Provincial Engineer, or in the absence thereof, the Public the chartered city or municipality, or the Governor of the province where the
Works Engineer within whose jurisdiction the municipality falls shall be the building or structure for which the permit is being applied for is located. Said
Building Official. In case of cities, the City Public Works Supervisor shall be appeal shall be decided within fifteen (15) days from receipt thereof,
the Building Official: Provided, That when there is no such City Public Works otherwise, the applicant may bring the matter to the proper Court of Justice
Supervisor, the City Engineer shall be the Building Official. For the purpose of for final disposition.
the enforcement of the provisions of this Code, the Building Official shall be
(e) All public buildings shall conform to the provisions of this Code and the (2.3) In case the building or portion thereof poses an immediate danger to
Building Official of the city or province where the public building is located life, limb, or property, the same shall be vacated immediately, then altered
shall issue the building permit therefor, stating in writing that such public to conform to the requirements of this Code or demolished in accordance
building conforms to the requirements of the Code. For national public with subparagraphs (1) and (2) herein.
buildings, the Secretary of Public Works and Communications shall issue a (3) If the owner, after receipts of the order of alteration or demolition fails to
certification that such a building conforms to the Code. Public buildings shall comply with such order within a period of one year, said construction shall
be exempt from payment of building permit, inspection, another fees. be declared a nuisance and be abated in accordance with the provisions of
Article 699 of the Civil Code of the Philippines.
SECTION 1.02.04: Fees

(a) Regulations on building permit, inspection and other fees, and for (b) This Code shall not be construed to deprive any person the right to avail
compliance with the same shall be covered by city and municipal ordinances: himself of any and all judicial proceedings or remedies available under
Provided, That Traditional indigenous family dwellings under Section 1.01.04 existing laws.
(d) shall be exempt from payment of building permit fees.
(c) Nothing in this Chapter is intended to diminish the powers vested in the
SECTION 1.02.05: Inspection ad Certificates of Occupancy different Boards of Examiners of the various architectural and engineering
professions as provided for in existence laws regulating the practice of
(a) Inspection. The duly licensed architect or engineer engaged by the owner architecture and engineering, nor to restrict the designing engineering or
to undertake inspection and detailed supervision of the construction shall architect in the exercise of his professional discretion within the basic
periodically certify that the construction conforms to the plans and minimum standards and requirements embodied in Section 1.01.02 of this
specifications submitted in the application for a building permit. Upon Code.
submission of such periodic certifications during the progress of
construction, the Building Official shall periodically issue the required TITLE 2 - FIRE AND FIRE-RESISTIVE STANDARDS
authority to continue with the subsequent phases of construction, without Chapter 2.01 - REQUIREMENTS FOR FIRE ZONES
prejudice to his right to conduct on his own initiative any inspection of the
said construction. Upon completion of the construction, the said duly SECTION 2.01.01: General
licensed architect or engineer shall submit to the Building Official the final
certification that the building conforms to the provisions of the Code and (a) Fire Zones Defined. Fire zones are areas within which only certain types of
with the detailed plans and specifications submitted. building are permitted to be constructed based on their use, occupancy, type
of construction, and resistance to fire.
(b) Certificates of Occupancy. The proper Certificate of Occupancy shall be
issued to the applicant within seven (7) days from completion of the (b) Building Located in More Than One Fire Zone. If a building or structure is
requirements for inspection and occupancy and payment of any and all fees located in more than one fire zone and more than one-third of its total floor
therefor, unless the building Official or his Deputy issuing the Certificate shall area is in a more restricted fire zone, then the entire building shall conform
show cause in writing why the Certificate should not be issued and shall to the requirements for the more restricted area.
indicate thereon the particular provisions of the Code violated or the
particular requirements not complied with. Within fifteen (15) days from (c) Moved Building. Any building or structure moved within or into any fire
receipt by the applicant of the advice from Building Official or his Deputy zone shall be made to comply with all the requirements for buildings of that
authorized to issue the certificate why the certificate should not be issued, or fire zone.
why the certificate is suspended or revoked, the applicant may appeal the
non-issuance, suspension, or revocation thereof, to the Mayor of the (d) Temporary Buildings. Temporary buildings or structures conforming to
chartered city or municipality, or the Governor of the province where the the requirements of this Code, used for the protection of the public around
building for which the certificate is being applied for is located. Said appeal and in conjunction with construction work may be erected in any of the fire
shall be decided within fifteen (15) days from receipts thereof, otherwise, the zones: Provided, that such work is allowed by special permit from the
applicant may bring the matter to the proper Court of Justice for final Building Official and such is used only for a limited period of time.
disposition. The building may be occupied only upon issuance of the
Certificate of Occupancy. chan robles virtual law library (e) Center Lines of Streets. For the purpose of this Chapter, the center line of
an adjoining street or alley may be considered an adjacent property line.
SECTION 1.02.06: Violations of This Code Covering Designs, Materials, Distance shall be measured at right angles to the street or alley.
Methods of Construction, and Workmanship
SECTION 2.01.02. Designation of Fire Zones
(a) In all cases of violation of this Code covering design, materials, methods
of construction, and workmanship, the Building Official shall observe the (a) The Secretary shall classify each type of fire zone in accordance to use,
following procedure in ordering the alteration to conform to this Code or occupancy, type of construction, and resistance to fire subject to the
demolition of the building or portion thereof: provisions of this Code.

(b) Based on the classification of fire zones, City Counsels or Municipal

(1) Where the building is in the process of construction, the construction of Boards, by resolution, shall divide cities and municipalities into fire zones.
the portion or portions in violation of this Code shall be stopped until the Such division shall be in accordance with the local physical and spatial
same shall have been altered to conform to this Code, unless such partial framework plans or the recommendation of the local city or municipal
violation will impair the stability and safety of the whole or part of the development body.
structure, in which case, the whole construction shall be stopped.
Chapter 2.02 - FIRE-RESISTIVE REQUIREMENTS AND STANDARDS FOR FIRE
(2) Where a building or portion thereof has been constructed, the following PROTECTION
procedure shall be observed:
(2.1) In case it can be reasonably altered to conform to the requirements of SECTION 2.02.01: Fire-Resistive Requirements
this Code, it shall be altered accordingly;
(a) Exterior bearing and nonbearing walls of Types II and III constructions
(2.2) In case the lateration will cost more than 50 per cent of the current shall have one-hour fire-resistive rating; while those of types IV and V shall
construction cost of the building, it shall be altered to conform to this Code have four-hour fire-resistive rating.
or demolished at the option of the owner;
(b) Interior bearing walls, permanent partitions, floors, and roofs of Types II
to IV constructions shall have one-hour fire-resistive rating; while those of
Type V shall have three-hour fire-resistive rating for walls, one-hour fire- masonry, 25.4 centimeters (10 inches) thick; and solid concrete, 15
resistive rating for partitions, and two-hour fire-resistive rating for vertical centimeters (6 inches) thick.
openings, floors, and roofs.

(c) Structural frames of Types II and III constructions shall have one-hour fire- (2) The following protection for metal structural members shall have a three-
resistive rating; those of Type IV shall have two-hour fire-resistive rating; and hour fire resistive rating: centimeters (2 inches) of concrete; 7.6 centimeters
those of Type V shall have three-hour fire-resistive rating. (3 inches) of masonry.

(d) Exterior doors and windows shall have three-fourths-hour fire-resistive

rating for all types of construction. (e) Four-Hour Fire-Resistive Time Period Rating

SECTION 2.02.02: Fire-Resistive Standards

(1) The following partitions, walls, and floors shall have a four-hour fire
(a) General. Materials and systems of fire-resistive purposes shall be resistive rating: solic masonry walls, 20 centimeters (8 inches) thick; hollow
classified according to their fire-resistive ratings as determined by unit masonry, 30 centimeters (12 inches) thick; and solid concrete, 17.8
internationally accepted testing methods, subject to the provisions of this centimeters (7 inches) thick.
Section.

(b) One-Hour Fire-Resistive Time Period Rating (f) Steel Joists. Steel joist floors shall have from one to four-hour fire-resistive
rating based on internationally accepted standards of engineering.

(1) The following walls and partitions shall have a one-hour fire-resistive (g) Flame-Proof Materials. Materials required to be flame-proofed shall be
rating: Solid masonry, 10 centimeters (4 inches) thick; hollow unit masonry, treated with a flame-retardant having flame-spread rating of 50 less as
15 centimeters (6 inches) thick; solid concrete, 10 centimeters (4 inches) determined by the "Tunnel Test".
thick; stud walls covered on each side with 1.9 centimeters (3/4 inch) lath
and plaster, 1.6 centimeters (5/8 inch) of vermiculite gypsum board, or 2.5 SECTION 2.02.03: Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish
centimeters (1 inch) of gypsum board; and 5 centimeters (2 inches) nominal
thickness tongue and groove wood, or two layers of 1.9 centimeters (3/4 (a) General. Finishes for interior walls and ceilings of any building shall be
inch) tongue and groove wood separated by sheet metal or asbestos paper classified according to their flame-spread characteristics using the
and treated on each side with a fire-retardant coating having a flame-spread internationally accepted "Tunnel Test" or other equivalent test for fire
rating of 50 or less. Square-edged boards may be used is the layers are laid at protection. The class of materials according to flame-spread characteristics
right angles with each other. shall be determined for each occupancy group. The smoke density shall not
be greater than that obtain from the burning of untreated wood under
(2) The following floors shall have a one-hour fire-resistive rating: masonry or similar conditions when tested in accordance with the "Tunnel Test" in the
concrete, 10 centimeters (4 inches) thick; wood joists having two layers of way intended for use. The products of combustion shall be no more toxic
flooring above and a plaster or gypsum board ceiling, 1.9 centimeters (3/4 than the burning of untreated wood under similar conditions.
inch) in thickness - the two layers of flooring shall be separated by sheet
metal or asbestos building paper; 6.3 centimeters (2-1/2 inches) net (b) Interior Finish Materials. Interior walls and ceiling finish shall mean
thickness tongue and grooved wood floors covered with 1.9 centimeters (3/4 interior wainscoting, paneling, or other finish applied structurally or for
inch) wood flooring laid at right angles thereto. The supporting beams for decoration, acoustical correction, surface insulation or similar purposes.
such floors shall be not less than 15 centimeters (6 inches) in minimum Requirements for finishes shall not apply to trim, doors, and windows or
dimension. their frames, nor to materials which are less than one millimeter (0.039 inch)
in thickness cemented to an incombustible backing. Interior finish materials
(3) The following protections for metal structural members shall have one- applied to walls and ceilings shall be tested as specified herein and regulated
hour fire-resistive rating: 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) of concrete; 3.8 for purposes of limiting flame-spread.
centimeters (1-1/2 inches) of masonry; and metal lath and 2.5 centimeters (1
inch) of plaster. SECTION 2.02.04: Promulgation of Fire-Resistive Regulations

(4) The following shall also have a one-hour fire-resistive rating; wood (a) The Secretary shall promulgate appropriate standards and regulations on
colums, 20 centimeters (8 inches) or more in least dimension; and wood the testing of materials for flame-spread characteristics; application of
beams, 15 centimeters (6 inches) or more in least dimension. controlled interior finish; finishes based on occupancy; materials and tests on
fire dampers, fire tests of building construction and materials, fire tests of
door assemblies, tin-clad fire doors, fire test of window assemblies,
(c) Two-Hour Fire-Resistive Time Period Rating installation of fire door and fire windows, and smoke and fire detectors for
fire protective signaling systems; fire-resistive protection of structural
members; fire-resistive walls and partitions; fire-resistive floor-ceilings or
(1) The following partitions, walls, and floors shall have a two-hour fire- roof-ceilings; fire-resistive assemblies for protection of openings; and fire-
resistive rating: solid masonry, 15 centimeters (6 inches) thick; hollow unit retardant roof coverings.
masonry, 20 centimeters (8 inches) thick; and solid concrete, 127
centimeters (5 inches) thick. TITLE 3 - REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY
Chapter 3.01 - CLASSIFICATION OF ALL BUILDINGS BY
(2) The following protections for metal structural members shall have a two- USE OR OCCUPANCY AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
hour fire-resistive rating. 3.8 centimeters (1-1/2 inches) of concrete; 5 FOR ALL OCCUPANCIES
centimeters (2 inches) of masonry; and two layers of metal lath and plaster
with 1.9 centimeters (3/4 inch) air space between and having a total SECTION 3.01.01: Occupancy Classified
thickness of 6.3 centimeters (2-1/2 inches).
(a) Building proposed, for construction shall be identified according to its use
or the character of its occupancy and shall be classified as follows:
(d) Three-Hour Fire-Resistive Time Period Rating

(1) Group A - Residential: Dwellings. Group A Occupancies shall include

(1) The following partitions, walls, and floors shall have a three-hour fire- dwellings.
resistive rating: solid masonry, 17.8 centimeters (7 inches) thick; hollow unit
(2) Group B - Residential: Hotels and Apartments. - Group B Occupancies which its use most nearly resembles based on the existing or proposed life
shall include boarding or lodging houses, hotels, apartment houses, and fire hazard.
convents, and monasteries (each accomodating more than 10 persons). chan
robles virtual law library (c) The Building Officials shall identify and indicate in the Certificate of
Occupancy the appropriate classification to which a building or structure to
(3) Group C - Education and Recreation. Group C Occupancies shall be any be constructed belongs.
building used for school or day care purposes more than eight hours per
week, involving assemblage for instruction, education, or recreation, and not SECTION 3.01.02: Change in Use
classed in Group I or in Divisions 1 and 2 of Group H Occupancies.
(a) No change shall be made in the character of occupancies or use of any
(4) Group D - Institutional. Group D Occupancies shall include: Division 1 - building which would place the building in a different division of the same
Mental hospitals, mental sanitariums, jails, prisons, reformatories, and group of occupancy or in a different group of occupancies, unless such
buildings where personal liberties of inmates are similarly restrained; buildings is made to comply with the requirements for such division or group
Division 2 - Nurseries for full-time care of children under kindergarten age, of occupancy: Except, That the character of occupancy of existing buildings
hospitals, sanitariums, nursing homes with non-ambulatory patients, and may be changed subject to the approval of the Building Official and the
similar buildings (each accommodating more than five persons); Division 3 - building may be occupied for purposes set forth in other Groups without
Nursing homes for ambulatory patients, homes for children of kindergarten conforming to all the requirements for those Groups, provided the new or
age or over (each accommodating more than five persons); Provided, That proposed use is less hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than the existing
Group D Occupancies shall not include buildings used only for private use.
residential purposes or for a family group.
SECTION 3.01.03: Mixed Occupancy
(5) Group E - Business and Mercantile. Group E Occupancies shall include:
Division 1 - Gasoline filling and service stations; storage garage and boat (a) General. When a building is used for more than one occupancy purposes,
storage structures where no work is done except exchange of parts and each part of the building comprising a distinct "Occupancy" shall be
maintenance requiring no open flame, welding, or the use of highly separated from any other occupancy. When a building is used for more than
flammable liquids; Division 2 - Wholesale and retail stores, office buildings, one occupancy purpose, it shall be subject to the most restrictive
drinking and dining establishments having an occupant load test than 100, requirements for the occupancies concerned: Except, - (1) When a one-story
printing plants, municipal police and fire stations, factories and workshops building houses more than one occupancy, each portion of the building shall
using materials not highly flammable or combustible, storage and sales room conform to the requirements for the occupancy housed therein, and the area
for combustible goods, and paint stores without bulk handling, and Division 3 of the building shall be such that the sum of the actual areas divided by the
-Aircraft hangars where no repair work is done except exchange of parts and allowable area for each separate occupancy shall not exceed one; and (2)
maintenance requiring no open flame, welding, or the use of highly Where minor accessory uses do not occupy more than 10 per cent of the
flammable liquids; open parking garages and heliports. area of any floor of a building, nor more than 10 per cent of the basis are
permitted in the occupancy requirements. The major use of the building shall
(6) Group F - Industrial. Group F Occupancies shall include: Ice plants, power determine the occupancy classification provided the uses are separated in
plants, pumping plants, cold storage, and creameries; factories and accordance with requirements for occupancy separation.
workshops using incombustible and non-explosive materials; and storage and
sales rooms of incombustible and non-explosive materials. (b) Forms of Occupancy Separation. Occupancy separations shall be vertical
or horizontal or both, or when necessary, of such other form as may be
(7) Group G - Storage and Hazardous. Group G Occupancies shall include: required to afford a complete separation between the various occupancy
Division 1 - Storage and handling of hazardous and highly flammable or divisions in the building.
explosive materials other than flammable liquids; Division 2 - Storage and
handling of flammable liquids; dry cleaning plants using flammable liquids; (c) Types of Occupancy Separation. Occupancy separations shall be classed as
paint stores with bulk handling; paint shops and spray painting rooms, and "One-Hour Fire-Resistive" "Two-Hour Fire-Resistive", "Three-Hour Fire-
shops; Division 3 - Wood working establishments, planning mills and box Resistive", and "Four-Hour Fire-Resistive".
factories, shops factories where loose, combustible fibers or dust are
manufactured, processed or generated; warehouses where highly
combustible material is stored; Division 4 - Repair garages; and Division 5 - (1) A "One-Hour Fire-Resistive Occupancy Separations" shall be of not less
Aircraft repair hangars. than one-hour fire-resistive construction. All openings in such a separations
shall be protected a fire assembly having a one-hour fire-resistive rating.
(8) Group H - Assembly Other Than Group I. Group H Occupancies shall
include: Division 1 - Any assembly building with a stage and an occupant load (2) A "Two-Hour Fire-Resistive Occupancy Separation" shall be of not less
of less than 100 in the building; Division 2 - Any assembly building without a than two-hour fire-resistive construction. All openings in such separation
stage and having an occupant load of 300 or more in the building; Division 3 - shall be protected by a fire assembly having a one and one-half-hour fire-
Any assembly building without a stage and having an occupant load of less resistive rating.
than 300 in the building, including such buildings used for school purposes
less than eight hours per week; and Division 4 - Stadiums, reviewing stands, (3) A "Three-Hour Fire-Resistive Occupancy Separation" shall be of not less
amusement park structures not included within Group I or Divisions 1, 2, and than three-hour fire-resistive construction. All openings in walls forming such
3, Group H Occupancies. separation shall be protected by a fire assembly having a three-hour fire-
resistive rating. The total width of all openings in any three-hour fire-resistive
(9) Group I - Assembly Occupant Load 1000 or More. Group I Occupancies occupancy separation wall in any one-story shall not exceed 25 per cent of
shall be any assembly building with a stage and an occupant load of 1000 or the length of the wall in that story and no single opening shall have an area
more in the building. greater than 10.00 square meters (107.1 square feet). All openings in floors
forming a "Three-Hour Fire-Resistive Occupancy Separation" shall be
(10) Group J - Accessory. Group J Occupancies shall include: Division 1 - protected by vertical enclosures extending above and below such openings.
Private garages, carports, sheds, and agricultural buildings; Division 2 - The walls of such vertical enclosures shall be of not less than ten-hours fire-
Fences over 1.80 meters (6 feet) high, tanks, and towers. resistive construction, and all openings therein shall be protected by a fire
assembly having one and one-half-hour fire-resistive rating.

(b) Other subgroupings or divisions within Groups A to J may be determined (4) A "Four-Hour Fire-Resistive Occupancy Separation" shall have no
by the Secretary. Any other occupancy not mentioned specifically in this openings therein and shall be of not less than four-hour fire-resistive
Section, or about which there is any question, shall be included in the Group construction.
 structural design if completely of incombustible materials, or may extend not
(d) Fire Ratings for Occupancy Separation. Occupancy separations shall be to exceed 6.00 meters (19 feet, 8 inches) above the height limits for each
provided between various groups, subgroupings, or divisions of occupancies. occupancy group if of combustible materials.
The Secretary shall promulgate rules and regulations for appropriate
occupancy separations in buildings of mixed occupancy: Provided, That SECTION 3.01.08: Maximum Requirements for Group A Dwellings: One Two
where any occupancy separation is required, the minimum shall be a "One- Stories
Hour Fire-Resistive Occupancy Separation"; and where the occupancy
separation is horizontal, structural members supporting the separation shall (a) Dwelling Location and Lot Occupancy. The dwelling shall occupy not more
be protected by equivalent fire-resistive construction. than 90 per cent of a corner lot and 80 per cent of an inside lot, and subject
to the provisions on easements of light and view of the Civil Code of the
SECTION 3.01.04: Location on Property Philippines, shall be at least 2.00 meters (6 feet, inches) from the property
line.
(a) General. Buildings shall adjoin or have access to a public space, yard, or
street on not less than one side. Required yards shall be permanently (b) Light and Ventilation. Every dwelling shall be so constructed and arranged
maintained. For the purpose of this Section, the center line of an adjoining as to provide adequate light and ventilation.
street or alley shall be considered an adjacent property line. Eaves over
required windows shall be not less than 75 centimeters (30 inches) from the
side and rear and rear property lines. (1) Habitable rooms, bathrooms, toilet rooms and utility rooms shall have a
height of not less than 2.40 meters (8 feet), measured from floor to ceiling.
(b) Fire Resistance of Walls. Exterior walls shall have fire resistance and
opening protection in accordance with requirements set by the Secretary. (2) Rooms shall have a minimum size of 6.00 square meters (65 square feet)
Projections beyond the exterior wall shall not extend beyond a point one- with a least horizontal dimension of 2.00 meters (6 feet, 7 inches) for rooms
third the distance to the property line from an exterior wall; or a point one- of human habitations; 3.00 square meters (32 feet) with a least horizontal
third the distance from an assumed vertical plane located where fire-resistive dimension of 1.50 meters (5 feet) for kitchens; and 1.20 square meters (13
protection of openings is first required due to location on property, square feet) with a least horizontal dimension of 90 centimeters (3 feet) for
whichever is the least restrictive. Distance shall be measured at right angles bathrooms.
from the property line. When openings in exterior walls are required to be
protected due to distance from property line, the sum of the area of such (3) Windows shall be at least 1/10th of the floor area of the room.
openings shall not exceed 50 per cent of the total area of the wall in each
story.
(c) Sanitation. Every dwelling shall be provided with at least one sanitary
(c) Buildings on Same Property and Buildings Containing Courts. For the toilet and adequate washing and drainage facilities.
purpose of determining the required wall and opening protection, buildings
on the same property and court walls shall be assumed to have a property (d) Foundation. Footing shall be of sufficient size and strength to support the
line between them. When a new building is to be erected on the same load and dwelling and shall be at least 30 centimeters (1 foot) thick and 60
property with an existing building, the assumed property line from the centimeters (2 feet) below the surface of the ground. Each post shall be
existing building shall be the distance to the property line for each occupancy anchored to such footings by straps and bolts of adequate size.
as set forth by the Secretary: Provided, That two or more buildings on the
same property may be considered as portions of one building of the (e) Post or Suportales. The dimensions of wooden post or suportales shall be
aggregate area of such buildings is within the limits of allowable floor areas those found in Table 3.01 - A Dimension of Wooden Posts or Suportales
for a single building; and that when the buildings so considered house (Annex B).
different occupancies or are of different types of construction, the area shall
be that allowed for the most restricted occupancy or construction. (f) Floor. The live load of the first floor shall be at least 200 kilograms per
square meter (40 pounds per square foot) and for the second floor, at least
SECTION 3.01.05: Allowable Floor Areas 150 kilograms per square meter (30 pounds per square foot).

(a) Areas of One-Story Buildings and Building Over One Story. Allowable floor (g) Roof. The wind load for roofs shall be at least 150 kilograms per square
areas for one-story buildings and buildings over one story shall not exceed meter (30 pounds per square foot).
the limits determined in accordance with occupancy groups and types of
construction. (h) Stairs. Stairs may be 75 centimeters (30 inches) wide, with a rise of 20
centimeters (8 inches) and a run of 23 centimeters (9 inches).
(b) Area Separation Walls. Each portion of a building separated by one or
more area separation walls may be considered a separate building provided (i) Entrance and Exit. There shall be one entrance and one exit.
the area separation wall meet the requirements of this Code.
(j) Electrical Outlets. There shall be at least one convenience outlet per 6.00
SECTION 3.01.06: Allowable Area Increases meters (20 feet) of wall measured along the floor and one light outlet for
every room.
(a) The floor area hereinabove provided may be increased in certain specific
instances and under appropriate conditions, based on the existence of public (k) Mechanical Requirements. Family dwellings not more than two stories
space, streets, or yards extending along the adjoining two or more sides of shall be exempt from the requirements of the Mechanical Code.
the building or structure.
SECTION 3.01.09: Requirements for Group Occupancies
SECTION 3.01.07: Maximum Height of Buildings and Increases
(a) Subject to the provisions of this Code, the Secretary shall promulgate
(a) The maximum height and number of stories of every building shall be regulations for each occupancy group covering: allowable construction,
dependent upon the character of the occupancy and the type of height, and area; location on property, exit facilities, light, ventilation, and
construction, and shall not exceed the limits determined by population sanitation; enclosure of vertical openings; fire-extinguishing system; and
density, building bulk, widths of streets, and car parking requirements. The special hazards.
height shall be measured from the highest adjoining sidewalk or ground
surface, provided that the height measured from the lowest adjoining TITLE 4 - TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION
surface shall not exceed such maximum height by more than 3.00 meters (10 Chapter 4.01 - CLASSIFICATION OF ALL BUILDINGS BY TYPES OF
feet): Except, That towers, spires, and steeples, erected as a part of a building CONSTRUCTION AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
and not used for habitation or storage, are limited as to height only by
SECTION 4.01.01: Types of Construction under this Code, or so as to create an additional room, unless such additional
room conforms to the requirements of this Code.
(a) The requirements of this Chapter are minimum for the varying degrees of
public safety and resistance to fire. Every building proposed for construction (d) No building shall be enlarged, so that the dimensions of any required
shall be identified according to the following: court yard would be less than that prescribed for any such building.

SECTION 5.01.02: Measurement of Site Occupancy

(1) Type I. Type I Buildings shall be of wood construction. The structural
elements may be any of the materials permitted by this Code. (a) The measurement of site occupancy or lot occupancy shall be taken at the
ground level and shall be exclusive of courts, yards, and light wells.
(2) Type II. Type II Buildings shall be of wood construction with protective
fire-resistant materials and one-hour fire-resistive throughout: Except, That (b) Courtyards and light wells shall be measured clear of any projections from
permanent nonbearing partitions may use fire-retardant treated wood within the walls enclosing such wells or yards with the exception of roof leaders,
the framing assembly. wall copings, sills, or steel fire escapes, not exceeding 1.20 meters (4 feet) in
width.
(3) Type III. Type III Buildings shall be masonry and wood construction,
Structual elements may be any of the materials permitted by this Code: SECTION 5.01.03: Percentage of Site Occupancy
Provided, That the building shall be one-hour fire-resistive throughout.
Exterior walls shall be of incombustible fire-resistive construction. (a) The maximum site occupancy shall be governed by the use, type of
construction, and height of the building, and the use, area, nature and
(4) Type IV. Type IV Building shall be of steel, iron, concrete, or masonry location of the site, subject to the provisions of local zoning requirements
construction. Walls and permanent partitions shall be of incombustible fire- and in accordance with rules and regulations set forth by the Secretary.
resistive construction: Except, That permanent nonbearing partitions of one-
hour fire resistive construction framing assembly. SECTION 5.01.04: Minimum Size of Courts and Their Least Dimensions

(5) Type V. Type V Buildings shall be fire-resistive. The structural elements (a) The minimum size of courts and their least dimensions shall be dependent
shall be of steel, iron, concrete, or masonry construction. Walls and upon the use, type of construction, and height of the building subject to the
permanent partitions shall be incombustible fire-resistive construction. requirements set forth by the Secretary: Provided, That in no case shall be
the minimum horizontal dimension of courts be less than 2.00 meters (6 feet,
7 inches).
(b) Other subtypes or divisions within Types I to V may be determined by the
Secretary. Any building which does not conform entirely to a type of (b) All inner courts shall be connected to a street or yard, either by a
construction herein set forth shall be classified into a type having an equal or passageway with a minimum width of 1.20 meters (4 feet) or by a door
lesser degree of fire-resistance of the building. through a room or rooms.

(c) The Building Official shall identify and indicate in the Certificate of SECTION 5.01.05: Ceiling Heights
Occupancy the appropriate classification to which a building or structure to
be constructed belongs. (a) Habitable rooms, bathrooms, toilet rooms, storage rooms, and utility
rooms shall have a ceiling height of not less than 2.40 meters (8 feet),
SECTION 4.01.02: Change in Type measured from the floor to the ceiling: Provided, That for buildings of more
than one story, the minimum ceiling height of the first story shall be 2.70
(a) No change shall be made in the type of construction of any building which meters (9 feet) and 2.40 meters (8 feet) for the second story, and succeeding
would place the building in a different subtype or type of construction unless stories. Garages shall have an unobstructed headroom clearance of not less
such bidding is made to comply with the requirements for such subtype or than 2.10 meters (7 feet) above the finished floor.
type of construction: Except, That the type of construction of existing
buildings may be changed subject to the approval of the Building Official and SECTION 5.01.06: Minimum Size of Rooms and Their Least Dimensions
the building may be constructed for purposes set forth in other Types
without conforming to all the requirements for those Types, provided the (a) The minimum sizes of rooms and their least horizontal dimensions shall
new or proposed construction is less hazardous, based on life and fire risk, be as follows: 6:00 square (65 square feet) with at least nominal dimension
than the existing construction. of 2.00 meters (6 feet 7 inches) for rooms for human habitation; 3.00 square
meters (32 square feet) with a least horizontal dimension of 1.50 meters (5
SECTION 4.01.03: Requirements on Types of Construction feet) for kitchens; and 1.20 square meters (12 square feet) with a least
horizontal dimension of 0.90 meter (3 feet) for bathrooms.
(a) Subject to the provisions of this Chapter, the Secretary shall promulgate
regulations for each type of construction, and promulgate rules and SECTION 5.01.07: Minimum Air Space Requirements in Determining the Size
regulations therefor, covering: structural framework, exterior walls and of Rooms
openings, interior walls and enclosures, floors, exits and stars construction,
and roofs. (a) The following minimum air spaces shall be provided:

TITLE - LIGHT, VENTILATION, AND SANITATION

Chapter 5.01 - LIGHT AND VENTILATION (1) For school rooms: 3.00 meters (106 cubic feet) with 1.00 square meter
(10.7 square feet) of floor area per person.
SECTION 5.01.01: General
(2) For workshops, factories, and offices: 10.00 cubic meters (354 cubic feet)
(a) Subject to the provisions of the Civil Code on easement on light and view, or air space per person at daytime and 14.00 cubic meters (494 cubic feet) of
and to provisions of this Title, every building shall be so constructed, air space per person at night time.
arranged, and equipped as to provide adequate light and ventilation.
(3) For habitable rooms: 14.00 cubic meters (494 cubic feet) of air space per
(b) All building erected shall face a street or public alley or private street adult person and 7.00 cubic meters (247 cubic feet) of air space per child
which has been officially approved. under 10 years of age.

(c) No building shall be altered nor arranged so as to reduce the size of any
room or the relative area of windows to less than that provided for buildings SECTION 5.01.08: Window Openings
(a) Every room intended for any use, not otherwise provided with air- (a) All buildings hereafter erected for human habitation should be provided
conditioning or mechanical ventilation system as herein provided in this with plumbing facilities installed in conformity with the National Plumbing
Code, shall be provided with a window or windows whose total area of Code adopted and promulgated by the National Master Plumbers Association
openings shall be at least 1/10th the floor area of the room, and such shall of the Philippines pursuant to Republic Act 1378, otherwise known as the
open directly to a court, yard, public way or alley, or water course. "Plumbing Law".

SECTION 5.01.09: Mezzanine Floor TITLE 6 - REGULATIONS FOR USE OF PUBLIC

PROPERTY
(a) A Mezzanine floor is a partial, intermediate floor in any story or room of a Chapter 6.01 - BUILDING PROJECTION OVER
building having an area not more than one-half of the area of the room or PUBLIC STREETS
space in which it is constructed.
SECTION 6.01.01: General
(b) A mezzanine floor shall be constructed with a clear ceiling height of not
less than 1.90 meters (6 feet, 4 inches) above and below.
(a) No part of any building structure or any of its appendages shall project
SECTION 5.01.10: Vent Shafts beyond the property line of the building site, except as provided in this Code.

(a) Size. Vent shafts shall have a cross-sectional area of not less than 1/10th (b) The projection of any structure of appendage over a public property shall
of a square meter for every meter of height of shafts (1 square foot per 10 be the distance measured horizontally from the property line to the
feet) but not less than 1.00 square meter (10.7 square feet) in any case. No outermost point of the projection.
such shaft shall be less than 60 centimeters (2 feet) in its least dimension.

(b) Skylights. Unless open to the outer air at the top for its full area, such SECTION 6.01.02: Projection into Alleys and Streets
shaft shall be covered by a skylight having a net area of fixed louver openings
equal to the maximum required shaft area.
(a) No part of any structure or its appendage shall project into any alley or
(c) Air Ducts. Air ducts shall be connected to a street or court by a horizontal street except as provided in this Code.
duct or intake at a point below the lowest window opening on such shaft.
Such duct or intake shall have a minimum unobstructed cross-sectional area (b) No projection shall be allowed on any national roads or public highway.
of not less than 0.30 square meter (3.2 square feet) with a minimum
dimension of 30 centimeters (1 foot). The opening to the duct or intake shall (c) Footing located at least 2.40 meters (8 feet) below grade may project not
not be less than 30 centimeters (1 foot) above the bottom of the shaft and more than 30 centimeters (12 inches) beyond the property line.
the street surface or bathroom of court, at the respective ends of the
conduct or intake. (d) Foundation may be permitted to encroach into public sidewalk areas to a
width not exceeding 50 centimeters (1 foot, 8 inches): Provided, That the top
SECTION 5.01.11: Ventilating Skylights of the said foundations or footings does not reach beyond the level of a
plane 60 centimeters (2 feet) below the established grade; and Provided,
(a) Skylights. Skylights shall have a glass area not less than that required for further, That said projection does not obstruct any existing utility such as
the window they replace. They shall be equipped with movable sashes or power, communication, gas, water, or sewer lines, unless the owner
louvers of an aggregate net area not less than that required for openable concerned shall pay the corresponding entities for the re-routing of the parts
parts in the window they replace or with approved ventilation of equal affected.
efficiency.

(b) Ventilation. Rooms containing industrial heating equipment shall be SECTION 6.01.03: Projection of Balconies and Appendages Over Streets
provided with adequate artificial means of ventilation to prevent excessive
accumulation of hot or polluted air. chan robles virtual law library
(a) The extent of any projection over an affected alley or street shall be
SECTION 5.01.12: Artificial Ventilation uniform within a block and shall conform to the limitations set forth in Table
6.01-A: Projection of balconies and Appendages (Annex B).
(a) General. When artificial ventilation is required, the equipment shall be
designed and constructed to meet the following requirements in air changes: (b) The clearance between the established grade of the street or sidewalk
and the undersurface of the balcony shall be not less than 3.00 meters (10
(1) Business and Workrooms feet).
(1.1) For rooms wholly above grade occupied for office, clerical or
administrative purposes, or as stores, sales, rooms, restaurants, markets,
factories, workshops, or machinery rooms, not less than three changes of air SECTION 6.01.04: Arcades
per hour shall be provided.

(1.2) For rooms wholly above grade, occupied as bakeries, hotel or restaurant (a) Arcades shall be constructed on sidewalks when required by local
kitchen, laundries other than accessory to dwellings, and boiler rooms, of not ordinances. The with of the arcade and its height over affected sidewalks
less than ten changes or air per hour shall be provided. shall be uniform within a block: Provided, That, in no case, shall an arcade be
(2) Rooms in Public and Institutional Buildings less than 3.00 meters (10 feet) above the establishment sidewalk grade of
(2.1) For auditoriums and other rooms used for assembly purposes, not less the established street.
than 0.85 cubic meter (30 cubic feet) of air per minute shall be supplied for
each person for whom seating or other accommodation is provided. (a.1.) General. For the purpose of this Section, a marquee shall include by any
object or decoration attached thereto.
(2.2) For wards and dormitories of institutional buildings, not less than 0.85
cubic meter (30 cubic feet) of air per minute shall be supplied for each (b.2.) Projection and Clearance. The horizontal clearance between the
person accommodated. outmost edge of the marquee and the curb line shall be not less than 30
Chapter 5.02 - SANITATION centimeters (1 foot). The vertical clearance between the payment or grounds
line and the undersurface of the marquee shall be not less than 2.70 meters
SECTION 5.02.01: General (9 feet).
 (a) The mixing or handling of mortar, concrete, or similar materials on public
(c.3.) Construction. A Marquee shall be constructed of incombustible street shall not be allowed except when the same are to be used on such
material or materials of not less than one-hour fire-resistive construction. It streets or any portion thereof such as curbs, gutters, manholes, sidewalks,
shall provided with the necessary drainage facility. culverts and the like.

(d.4.) Location Prohibited. Every marquee shall be so located as not to SECTION 6.02.05: Protection of Utilities
interfere with the operation of any exterior standpipe connection or to
obstruct the clear passage from stairways or exists from the building or the (a) All public or private utilities above or below the ground shall be protected
installation or maintenance of electroliers. from any damages by any work being done under the permit. This protection
shall be maintained while such work is being done and shall not obstruct the
normal functioning of any such utility.
SECTION 6.01.06: Movable Awnings or Hoods
SECTION 6.02.06: Walkway
(a) Definition. An awning is a movable shelter supported entirely from the
exterior wall of a building and of a type which can be retracted, folded, or (a) A temporary walkway not less than 1.20 meters (4 feet) wide shall be
collapsed against the face of a supporting building. provided in lieu of the sidewalk, or in case there is none, in front of the
building site during construction or demolition unless the Building Official
(b) Clearance. The horizontal clearance between the awning and the curb authorizes the sidewalk to be fenced and closed. Adequate signs and railings
line shall be not less than 30 centimeters (1 foot). The vertical clearance shall be provided to direct pedestrian traffic.
between the undermost surface of the awning and the payment or ground
line shall be not less than 2.40 meters (8 feet). Collapsible awnings shall be so (b) The walkway shall be capable of supporting a uniform live load of 633
designed that they shall not block required when collapsed. kilograms per square meter (150 pounds per square foot). a durable wearing
surface shall be provided throughout the construction period.
SECTION 6.01.07: Doors
SECTION 6.02.07: Pedestrian protection
(a) Doors either sully opened or when opening, shall not projects beyond the
property line. (a) Protection Required. Pedestrian traffic shall be protected by a railing on
the street side when the walkway extends into the roadway, by a railing
SECTION 6.01.08: Corner Buildings with Chaflans when adjacent to excavations, and by such other appropriate portion such as
set forth in Table 6.02-A: Type of Protection Required for Pedestrian (Annex
(a) Every corner building on a public street or alley less than 30.60 meters (12 B).
feet) in width shall be made with a chaflan or truncated angle at the corner.
The face of the triangle so formed shall be at right angles to the bisector of (b) Railings. Railings shall be built substantially and should be at least 1.00
the angle of intersection of the street lines; Provided, That, in no case, shall meter (3 feet, 3 inches) in height.
the length of the chaflan be less than 4.00 meters (13 feet, 4 inches). In
special cases, the Building Official shall determine the size and form of the (c) Fence. Fences shall be built of an approved material, not less than 2.40
chaflan. meters (8 feet) in height above grade, and to be placed on the side of the
walkway nearest to the building site. Fences shall enclose entirely the
(b) If the buildings is arcaded, no chaflan is required notwithstanding the building site. Openings in such fences shall be provided with doors which
width of the public street or alleys less than 12.00 meters (39 feet, 4 inches). shall be kept closed at all times.

Chapter 6.02 - PROTECTION OR PEDESTRIANS DURING CONSTRUCTION OR (d) Canopies. The protective canopy shall have a clear height of 2.40 meters
DEMOLITION (8 feet) above the walkway, and shall be constructed structurally safe. Every
canopy shall have a solid fence built along its entire length on the
SECTION 6.02.01: General construction side. If materials are stored or work is done on top of the
canopy, the edge along the street shall be adopted by a tight curb board not
(a) No person shall use or occupy a street, alley, or public sidewalk for the less than 30 centimeters (1 foot) high and a railing not less than 1.00 meters
performance or work under a building permit except in accordance with the (3 feet, 3 inches) high shall be provided. The entire structure shall be
provisions of this Chapter. designed to carry the loads imposed upon it: Provided, That the live load
shall be not less than 633 kilograms per square meter (150 pounds per
(b) No person shall perform any work on any work on any building or square foot).
structure adjacent to a public way in general use by the public for pedestrian
travel, unless the pedestrians are protected as specified in this Chapter. SECTION 6.02.08: Maintenance and Removal of Protection Devices

(c) Any material or structure temporarily occupying public property, including (a) Maintenance. Such protection devices shall be properly maintained in
fences, canopies, and walkways, shall be adequately lighted between sunset place and kept in good order for the entire length of time pedestrians may be
and sunrise. endangered.

SECTION 6.02.02: Temporary Use of Streets and Alleys (b) Removal. Every protection fence or canopy shall be removed within 30
days after such protection is no longer required.
(a) The use of public property shall meet legal requirements and subject to
permit to be issued officially by the Building Official. SECTION 6.02.09: Demolition

SECTION 6.02.03: Storage on Public Property (a) The work of demolishing any building shall not be commenced until the
required pedestrian protection structures are in place.
(a) Materials and equipment necessary for work to be done under a permit
shall not be placed or stored on public property so as to obstruct free and (b) The Building Official require the permitee to submit plans and complete
convenient approach to and use of any fire hydrant, fire or police alarm box, schedule for demolition. Where such required, no work shall be done until
utility box, catch basin, or manhole or so as not to interfere with any such plans and/or schedule are approved by the Building Official.
drainage of any street or alley gutter.
TITLE 7 - ENGINEERING REGULATIONS
SECTION 6.02.04: Mixing Mortar on Public Property Chapter 7.01 - GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 7.01.01: Scope
SECTION 8.01.03: Veneer
(a) The design and construction of all buildings and structures shall be in
compliance with the provisions of the National Structural Code for Buildings, (a) Definition. Veneer is a nonstructural facing of brick, concrete, stone, tile,
latest edition, adopted and promulgated by the Board of examiners of civil metal, plastic, glass, or other similar approved materials attached to a
engineers pursuant to Republic Act Numbered 544, as amended, otherwise backing or structural components of the building for the purpose of
known as the "Civil Engineering Law". ornamentation, protection, or enclosure that may be adhered, integrated, or
anchored either on the exterior or interior of the building or structure.

TITLE 8 - DETAILED REGULATIONS (b) Design Requirements. The design of all veneer shall comply with the
Chapter 8.01 - GENERAL REQUIREMENTS following:
(1) Veneer shall support no load other than its own weight and the vertical
dead load of veneer above.
SECTION 8.01.01: General
(2) Surfaces to which veneer is attached shall be designed to support the
(a) Buildings proposed for construction shall comply with all the regulations additional vertical and lateral loads imposed by the veneer.
and specifications herein set forth governing quality, characteristics and
properties of materials, methods of design and construction, type of (3) Consideration shall be given for differential movement of supports
occupancy, and classification of construction. including that caused by temperature changes, shinkage, creep, and
deflection.
SECTION 8.01.02: Excavations, Foundations, and Retaining Walls
(4) Adhered veneer and its backing shall be designed to have a bond to the
(a) General. Subject to the provisions of Articles 684 to 686 of the Civil Code supporting elements sufficient to withstand shearing stresses due to their
of the Philippines on lateral and subjacent support, the quality of materials weights including seismic effects on the total assemblage.
and design used structurally in excavations, footings and shall conform to the
internationally recognized and accepted principles of engineering. (5) Anchored veneer and its attachments shall be designed to resist external
forces equal to twice the weight of the veneer.
(b) Excavation or fills.
(6) Anchors, supports, and veneers shall be incombustible corrosion-
resistant.
(1) Excavation or fills for any building structure and excavations or fills (c) Construction. The person undertaking a causing a construction to be
accessory thereto shall be so constructed or protected that they do not undertaken shall observe, to the satisfaction of the Building Official,
endanger life and property. internationally recognized and accepted principles governing dimensions of
units, weights of materials, methods of construction, attachment or
(2) Whenever or wherever the depth of any excavation for a new anchorage, bonding or anchorage, bonding or adhesion, structural adequacy
construction is such that the lateral and subjacent support of the adjoining and type and rigidity of backing, and considerations for differential
property or existing structure thereon would be affected in a manner that movements of supports including that caused by temperature changes,
the stability of safety of the same is in endanger, the person undertaking or shinkage, creep, and deflection.
causing the excavation to be undertaking or causing the excavation to be
undertaken shall be responsible for the expense of underpinning or SECTION 8.01.04: Enclosure of Vertical Openings
extending the foundation or footings of the aforementioned property or
structure only when such underpinning is necessary for the safety of the (a) General. Vertical openings be enclosed depending upon the fire-resistive
same during excavation. requirements of a particular type of construction as set forth in this Code.

(3) Excavations and other similar disturbances made on public property (b) Elevator Enclosures. Walls and partitions enclosing elevators and
caused by public utilities shall be repaired immediately and returned to its escalators shall be not less than the fire-resistive construction required under
former condition within 48 years from the start of such excavations and the Types of Construction. Enclosing walls of elevators shafts may consist of
disturbances by the public utility franchise owner and the duly constituted wire glass set in metal frames on the entrance side only. Elevator shafts
officials thereof. Adequate signs and safeguards shall be installed around and extending through more than two stories shall be equipped with an
near the excavation to protect the public from any danger of falling into the approved means of adequate ventilation to and through the main roof of the
excavation. Repeated and flagrant violations of this Section shall be the basis building: Provided, That in buildings housing Groups G and F Occupancies
of revocation of any public utility franchise. This provision shall not exempt equipped with automatic fire-extinguishing systems throughout, enclosures
the franchise owner and the duly constituted officials thereof from any shall not be required to escalators: Provided, further, That the top of the
criminal or civil liabilities arising from such excavations and disturbances to escalator opening at each story shall be provided with a draft curtain. Such
third persons. draft curtain shall enclose the perimeter of the unenclosed opening and shall
extend from the ceiling downward at least 30 centimeters (12 inches) on all
sides. Automatic sprinklers shall be provided around the perimeter of the
(c) Footings and Foundations, and Retining Walls opening and within 60 centimeters (2 feet) of the draft curtain. The distance
between the sprinklers shall not exceed 1.80 meters (6 feet) center-to-
center.
(1) Footings and foundations shall be of the appropriate type, of adequate
size, and capacity in order to safely sustain the superimposed loads under (c) Other Vertical Openings. All shafts, ducts, chutes, and other vertical
seismic or any condition to external forces that may affect the safety or openings not covered in paragraph (b), above shall have enclosing walls
stability of the structure. It shall be the responsibility of the architect and/or conforming to the requirements specified under the Type of Construction of
engineer to adopt the type and design of the same in accordance with the building in which they are located. In other than Group A Occupancies
generally accepted principles and standards of engineering. rubbish and linen chutes shall terminate in rooms separated from the
remainder of the bidding by a One-Hour Fire-Resistive Occupancy Separation.
(2) Whenever or wherever there exists in the site of the construction on Openings into the chutes shall not be located in required exit corridors or
abrupt change in the ground levels or levels of the foundation such that stairways. chan robles virtual law library
instability of the soil could result, retaining walls shall be provided and such
shall be of adequate design and type of construction in accordance with (d) Air Ducts. Air ducts passing through a floor shall be enclosed in a shaft.
generally accepted standards and principles of engineering. The shaft shall be as required in this Code for vertical openings. Dampers
shall be installed where ducts pierce the shaft enclosure walls. Air ducts in
Group A Occupancies need not be enclosed in a shaft if conforming to the vents with the balance of the required ventilation provide by eave or cornice
mechanical provisions of this Code. vents.

SECTION 8.01.05: Floor Construction

(d) Roof Drainage. Roof systems not designed to support accumulated water
(a) Floor construction shall be of materials and construction as specified shall be sloped for drainage.
under Title 2 on Fired Zones and Fire-Resistive Standards and under Title 4 on
Types of Construction.
(1) Roof Drains. Unless roofs are sloped to drain over roof edges or are
(b) All floors shall be so framed and tied into the framework and supporting designed to support accumulated water, roof drains shall be installed at each
walls as to form an integral part of the whole building. low point of the roof. Roof drains shall be adequate in size to convey the
water tributary to the roof drains.
(c) The types of floor construction used shall provide means to keep the
beams and girders from spreading by installing either ties or bridging, with (2) Overflow Drains and Scuppers. Where roof drains are required, overflow
no laterally unsupported length of joints being permitted to exceed 2.40 drains having the same size as the roof drains shall be installed with the inlet
meters (8 feet) except as otherwise specified in this Code. flow line located 5 centimeters (2 inches) above the low point of the roof, or
overflow scuppers having three times the size of the roof drains may be
SECTION 8.01.06: Roof Construction ad Covering installed in adjacent parapet walls with the inlet flow line 5 centimeters (2
inches) above the low the point of the adjacent roof and having minimum
(a) Roof Coverings. Roof coverings for all buildings shall be either fire- opening height of 10 centimeters (4 inches). Overflow drains shall be
retardant or ordinary depending upon the fire-resistive requirements of the connected to drain lines independent from the roof drains.
particular Type of Construction. The use of combustible roof insulation shall
be permitted in all Types of Construction provided it is covered with (3) Concealed Piping. Roof drainage overflow drains, when concealed within
approved roof covering applied directly thereto. the construction of the building, shall be installed.

(b) Roof Trusses. All roofs shall be so framed and tied into the framework and (4) Over Public Property. Roof drainage water from a building shall not be
supporting walls so as to form an integral part of the whole building. Roof permitted to flow over public property, except for Groups A and J
trusses shall have all joints well fitted and shall have all tension members Occupancies.
well tightened before any load is placed on the truss. Diagonal and sway
bracing shall be used to brace all roof trusses. The allowable working stresses
of materials in trusses shall conform to this Code. The minimum net section (e) Flashing. At the juncture of the roof and vertical surface, flashing and
of the members after framing shall be used in determining the strength on counterflashing shall be provided.
the truss at any point.
SECTION 8.01.07: Stairs, Exits, and Occupant Loads
(c) Attics
(a) General. The construction of stairs, exits, and occupant loads shall
conform to requirements for occupants of buildings, reviewing stands,
(1) Access. An attic access opening shall be provided in the ceiling of the top bleachers, and grandstands.
floor of buildings with combustible ceiling or roof construction. The opening
shall be located in a corridor or hallway of buildings or three or more stories
in height, and readily accessible in buildings of any height. The opening be (1) Determination of Occupant Loads. The occupant load permitted in any
not less than 55 centimeters by 75 centimeters (22 inches by 30 inches). building or portion thereof shall be determined by dividing the floor area
Seventy-five centimeters (30 inches) minimum clear headroom shall be assigned to that use by the square meters or square feet per occupant
provided above the access opening. Attics with a maximum vertical clear according generally accepted principles of engineering. The capacity of a
height of less than 75 centimeters (30 inches) need not be provided with building containing mixed occupancies shall be determined by adding the
access openings. number of occupants of the various parts of the building classified as to
Occupancy and Type of Construction.
(2) Area Separations. Enclosed attics spaces formed of combustible
construction shall be divided into horizontal areas not exceeding 230 square (2) Exit Requirements. Exit requirements of a building or portion thereof
meters (2500 square feet) by partitions extending from the ceiling to the used for different purposes shall be determined by the occupant load which
roof. Such partitions shall be not less than 13 millimeters (1/2 inch) thick gives the largest number of persons. No obstruction shall be placed the
gypsum wallboard, or 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) nominal thickness tight-fitting required width of an exit except projections permitted by this code.
wood, 10 millimeters (3/28 inch) thick plywood or approved incombustible
materials adequately supported. Openings in the partitions shall be (3) Posting of Room Capacity. Any room having an occupant load of more
protected by self-closing doors constructed as required for the partitions: than 50 where fixed seats are not installed, and which is used for classroom,
Except, That where the entire attic is equipped with an approved automatic assembly, or similar purpose, shall have the capacity of the room posted in a
fire-extinguishing system, the attic space may be divided into areas not to conspicuous place near the main exit from the room. Approved signs shall be
exceed 700 square meters (7500 square feet). maintained in a legible manner by the owner or his authorized agent, and
shall indicate the number of occupants permitted for each room use.
(3) Draft Stops. Regardless of the Type of Construction, draft stops shall be
installed in trussed roofs, between roof and bottom chord of trusses, in all (4) Changes in Elevation. Except in Group A Occupancies, changes in
buildings exceeding 1900 square meters (20,000 square feet). Draft stops elevation of not less than 30 centimeters (12 inches) along any exit serving a
shall be constructed as for attic area separations, and in accordance with tributary occupant load of 10 or more shall be by means of ramps.
Type of Construction.

(4) Ventilation. Enclosed attics and enclosed rafter spaces formed where (b) Exits Required
ceilings are applied direct to the underside of roof rafters, shall have cross
ventilation for each separate space by ventilating and openings protected
against the entrance of rain. The net free ventilating area shall be not less (1) Number of Exits. Every building or usable portion thereof shall have at
than 1/150ths of the area of the space ventilated, except that the area nay least one exit. In all occupancies, floors above the first story having an
be 1/300ths this provided by ventilators located in the upper portion of the occupant load of more than 10 shall have not less than two exits. Each
space to be ventilated at least 90 centimeters (3 feet) above eave or cornice mezzanine used for other than storage purposes, if greater in area than 185
square meters (2000 square feet), or if more than 18.00 meters (60 feet) in
any dimension shall have not less than two stairways to an adjacent floor. (6) Egress from Door. Every required exit door shall give immediate access to
Every story or portion thereof, having an occupant load of 500 to 999 shall an approved means of egress from the building.
have not less than three exits. Every story or portions thereof, having an
occupant load of 1000 or more shall have not less than four exits. The (7) Change in Floor Level at Doors. Regardless of the occupant load, there
number of exits required from any story of a building shall be determined by shall be a floor or landing on each side of and exit door. The floor or landing
using the occupant loads of floors which exit through the level under shall be level with, or not more than 5 centimeters (2 inches) lower than the
consideration as follows: 50 per cent of the occupant load in the first threshold of the doorway: Except, That in Groups A and B Occupies, a door
adjacent story above (and the first adjacent story below, when a story below may open on the top step of a flight of stairs or an exterior landing providing
exits through the level under consideration) and 25 per cent of the occupant the door does not swing over the top step or exterior landing and the landing
load in the story immediately beyond the first adjacent story. The maximum is not more than 19 centimeters (7-1/2 inches) below the floor level.
number of exits required for any story shall be maintained until egress is
provided from the structure. For purposes of this Section, basements or (8) Door Identification. Glass doors shall conform to the requirements
cellars and occupied roofs shall be provided with exits as required for stories. specified in Section 10.05.05. Other exit doors shall be so marked that they
Floors above the second story, basements, and cellars used for other than are readily distinguishable from the adjacent construction.
service of the building shall have not less than two exits.
(9) Additional Doors. When additional doors are provided for egress
(2) Width. The total width of exists in meters shall be not less than the total purposes, they shall conform to all provisions in the following cases:
occupant load served divided by 165 (in feet, by 50). Such width of exits shall Approved revolving door having leaves which will collapse under opposing
be divided approximately equally among the separate exits. The total exit pressures may be used in exit situations: Provided, That such doors have a
width required from any story of a building shall be determined by using the minimum width of 2.00 meters (6 feet, 7 inches); or they are not used in
occupant load of that story, plus the percentage of the occupant loads of occupancies where exits are required to be equipped with panic hardware;
floors which exit through the level under considerations as follows: 50 per or at least one conforming exit door is located adjacent to each revolving
cent of the occupant load in the first adjacent story above (and the first door installed in a building, and the revolving door shall not be considered to
adjacent story below when a story below exits through the level under provide any exit width.
consideration) and 25 per cent of the occupant load in the story immediately
beyond the first adjacent story. The maximum exit width required from any
story of a building shall be maintained. (d) Corridors and Exterior Exit Balconies. The provisions herein shall apply to
every corridor and exterior exit balcony serving as required exit for an
(3) Arrangement of Exits. If only two exits are required they shall be placed a occupant load of more than 10.
distance apart equal to not less than one-fifth of the perimeter of the area
served measured in a straight line between exits. Where three or more exits
are required they shall be arranged a reasonable distance apart so that if one (1) Width. Every corridor or exterior exit balcony shall be not less in which
becomes blocked others will be available. 1.12 meters (3 feet, 8 inches).

(4) Distance to Exits. No point in an unsprinkled building shall be more than (2) Projections. The required width of corridors and exterior exit balconies
45.00 meters (150 feet) from an exterior exit door, a horizontal exit, exit shall be unobstructed: Except, That trim, handrails, and doors when fully
passageway, or an enclosed stairway, measured along the line of travel. In opened shall not reduce the required width by more than 18 centimeters (7
building equipped with a complete automatic fire-extinguishing system the inches). Doors in any position shall not reduce the required width by more
distance from exits may be increased to 60.00 meters (200 feet). than one-half.

(3) Access to Exits. When more than one exit is required, they shall be so
(c) Doors. The provisions herein shall apply to every exit door serving an area arranged to allow going to either direction from any point in the corridor or
having an occupant load more than 10, or serving hazardous rooms or areas. exterior exit balcony to a separate exit, except for dead ends permitted.

(4) Dead Ends. Corridors and exterior exit balconies with dead ends are
(1) Swing. Exit doors shall swing in the direction of exit travel when serving permitted when the dead ends does not exceed 6.00 meters (20 feet) in
any hazardous areas or when serving an occupant load of 50 or more. Double length.
acting doors shall not be used as a part of fire assembly, nor equipped with
panic hardware. A double acting door shall be provided with a view panel of (5) Construction. Walls and ceilings of corridors shall be not less than one
not less than 1300 square centimeters (200 square inches). hour fire-resistive construction: Except, That this requirement shall not apply
to exterior exit balcony railings, corridors of a one-story building housing a
(2) Type of Lock or Latch. Exit door shall be openable from the inside without Group E or F Occupancy occupied by one tenant only and which serves an
the use of a key or any special knowledge or effort: Except, That this occupant load of 30 less, nor to corridors, formed by temporary partitions.
requirement shall not apply to exterior exit doors in a Group E or F Exterior exit balconies cannot project into an area where protected openings
Occupancy if there is a conspicuous, readily visible and durable sign on or are required.
adjacent to the door, stating that the door is to remain unlocked during
business hours. The locking device must be of a type that will be readily (6) Openings. Where corridor walls are required to be one-hour fire-resistive
distinguishable as locked. Flush bolts or surface bolts are prohibited. construction every interior door opening shall be protected as set forth in
generally recognized and accepted requirements for dual purpose fire exit
(3) Width and Height. Every required exit doorway shall be of a size as to doors. Other interior openings, except ventilation louvers equipped with
permit the installation of a door not less than 90 centimeters (3 feet) in approved automatic fire shutters shall be 6.3 millimeters (1/4 inch) fixed wire
width and not less than 2.00 meters (6 feet, 7 inches) in height. When glass set in steel frames. The total area of all openings other than doors, in
installed in exit doorways, exits doors shall be capable of opening at least 90 any portion of an interior corridor wall shall not exceed 25 per cent of the
degrees and shall be so mounted that the clear width of the exitway is not area of the corridor wall of the room which it is separating from the corridor.
less than 70 centimeters (2 feet, 4 inches). In computing the required exit
width, the net dimension of the exitway shall be used.
(c) Stairways. Every stairway serving any building or portion thereof shall
(4) Door Leaf Width. No leaf an exit door shall exceed 1.20 meters (4 feet) in conform to the following requirements of this Code except stairs or ladders
width. used only to attend equipment.

(5) Special Doors. Revolving, sliding, and overhead doors shall not be used as
required exits. (1) Width. Stairways serving an occupant load of more than 50 shall be not
less in width than 1.12 meters (3 feet, 8 inches). Stairways serving an
occupant load of 50 less may be 90 centimeters (3 feet) wide. Private the walls and soffits of the enclosed space shall be protected on the enclosed
stairways serving an occupant load less than 10 may be 75 centimeters (2 side as required for one-hour fire-resistive construction.
feet, 6 inches) wide. Trim and handrails shall not reduce the required width
may more than 9 centimeters (3-1/2 inches). (12) Stairway to Roof. In every building more than two stories in height, one
stairway shall extend to the roof surface, unless the roof has a slope greater
(2) Rise and Run. The rise of every step in a stairway shall not exceed 19 than 1 in 3.
centimeters (7-1/2 inches) and the run shall not be less than 25 centimeters
(10 inches). Except as provided under paragraph (d) the maximum variations (13) Headroom. Every required stairway shall have a headroom clearance of
in the height of risers and the width of treads in any one flight shall be 5 not less than2.00 meters (6 feet, 8 inches). Such clearance shall be
millimeters (3-1/2 inch): Except, That in private stairways serving an established by measuring vertically from a plane parallel and tangent to the
occupant load of less than 10, the rise may be 20 centimeters (8 inches) and stairway tread nosing to the soft above all points.
run may be 23 centimeters (9 inches).

(3) Winding Stairway. In Group A Occupancies and in private stairways in (f) Ramps. A ramp conforming to the requirements of this Code may be used
Group B Occupancies, winders may be used if the required width of run is as an exit. The width of ramps shall be as required for corridors.
provided at a point not more than 30 centimeters (12 inches) from the side
of the stairway where the treads are the narrower, but in no case shall any (g) Horizontal Exit. If conforming to the provisions of this Code, a horizontal
width of run be less than 15 centimeters (6 inches) at any point. exit may be required exit. All openings in a separation wall shall be protected
by a fire assembly having a fire-resistive rating of not less than one hour. A
(4) Circular Stairways. Circular stairs may be used as an exit provided the horizontal exit shall lead into a floor area having capacity for an occupant
minimum width of run is not less than 25 centimeters (10 inches). All treads load not less than the occupant load served by such exit. The capacity shall
in any one flight between landing shall have identical dimensions within a 5- be determined by allowing 0.28 square meter (3 square feet) of net clear
millimeters (3/16-inch) tolerance. floor area per ambulatory occupant and 1.86 square meters (20 square feet)
per non-ambulatory occupant. The dispersal area into which the horizontal
(5) Landings. Every landing shall have a dimension measured in the direction exit leads shall be provided with exits as required by this Code.
of travel equal to the width of the stairway. Such dimension need not exceed
1.20 meters (4 feet) when the stair has a straight run. Landings, when (h) Exit Enclosures. Every interior stairway, ramp, or escalator shall be
provided shall not be reduced in width by more than 9.3 centimeters (3-1/2 enclosed as specified in this Code: Except, That in other than Group D
inches) by a door when fully open. Occupancies, an enclosure will not be required for a stairway, ramp, or
escalator serving only one adjacent floor and connected with corridors or
(6) Basement Stairways. Where a basement stairway and stairway to an stairways serving other floors. Stairs in Group A Occupancies need not be
upper story terminate in the same exit enclosure, an approved barrier shall enclosed.
be provided to prevent persons from continuing on into the basement.
Directional exit signs shall be provided as specified in this Code.
(1) Enclosure walls shall be of not less than two-hour fire-resistive
(7) Distance Between Landings. There shall be not more than 3.65 meters (12 construction elsewhere. There shall be no openings into exit enclosures
feet) vertically between landings. except exit doorways and openings in exterior walls. All exit doors in an exit
enclosure shall appropriately be protected.
(8) Handrails. Stairways shall have handrails on each side, and every stairway
required to be more than 3.00 meters (9 feet) in width shall be provided with (2) Stairway and ramp enclosures shall include landings and parts of floors
not less than one intermediate handrail for each 3.00 meters (9 feet of connecting stairway flights and shall also include a corridor on the ground
required width. Intermediate handrails shall be spaced approximately equal floor leading from the stairway to the exterior of the building. Enclosed
within the entire width of the stairway. Handrails shall be placed not less corridors or passageways are not required from unenclosed stairways.
than 75 centimeters (2 feet, 6 inches) nor more than 85 centimeters (2 feet,
10 inches) above the nosing of threads, and ends of handrails shall be (3) A stairway in an exit enclosure shall not continue below the grade level
returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals: Except, in the exit unless an approved barrier is provided at the ground floor level to
following cases: Stairways 1.12 meters (3 feet, 8 inches or less in width and prevent persons from accidentally continuing into the basement.
stairway serving one individual dwelling unit in Group A or B Occupancies
may have one handrails, except that such stairway open on one or both sides (4) There shall be no enclosed usable space under stairways in an exit
shall have handrails provided on the open side or sides; or stairways having enclosure, nor shall the open space under such stairways be used for any
less four than four risers need not have handrails. purpose.

(9) Exterior Stairway Protection. All openings in the exterior wall below or
within 3.00 meters (10 feet), measured horizontally, of an exterior exit (i) Smokeproof Enclosures. A smoke enclosure shall consist of a continuous
stairway serving a building over two stories in height shall be protected by a stairway enclosed from the highest point top the lowest point by walls of
self-closing fire assembly having a three-fourths-hour fire-resistive rating: two-hour fire-resistive construction. In buildings five stories or more in
Except, That openings may be unprotected when two separated exterior height, one of the required exits shall be smokeproof enclosure.
stairways serve an exterior exit balcony.

(10) Stairway Construction-Interior. Interior stairways shall be constructed as (1) Stairs in smokeproof enclosures shall be of incombustible construction.
specified in this Code. Where there is enclosed usable space shall be
protected on the enclosed side as required for one-hour fire-resistive (2) There shall be no openings in smokeproof enclosure, except exit
construction. doorways and openings in exterior walls. There shall be no openings directly
into the interior of the building. Access shall be through a vestibule with one
(11) Stairway Construction-Exterior. Exterior stairways shall be of wall at 50 per cent open to the exterior and having an exit door from the
incombustible material: Except, That on Type III buildings which do not interior of the building and an exit door leading to the smokeproof enclosure.
exceed two stories in height, and are located in less fire-resistive Fire Zones, In lieu of a vestibule, access may be by way of an open exterior balcony of
as well as on Type I buildings, these may be of wood not less than 5 incombustible materials.
centimeters (2 inches) in nominal thickness. Exterior stairs shall be protected
as required for exterior walls due to location on property as specified in this (3) The opening from the building to the vestibule or balcony shall be
Code. Exterior stairways shall not project into an area where openings are protected with a self-closing fire assembly having one-hour fire-resistive
required to be protected. Where there is enclosed usable space under stairs rating. The opening from the vestibule or balcony to the stair tower shall be
protected a self-closing fire assembly having a one-hour fire-resistive rating.
 aisle leading thereto. In Groups C, H, and E Occupancies, aisles shall not be
(4) A smokeproof of enclosure shall exit into a public way or into an exit provided a dead end greater than 6.00 meters (20 feet) in length.
passageway leading to a public way. The exit passageway shall be without
other openings and shall have walls, floors, and ceilings of two-hour exit (4) Vomitories. Vomitories connecting the foyer or main exit with the cross
resistance. aisles shall have a total width not less than the sum of the required width of
the widest aisles leading thereto plus 50 per cent of the total required width
(5) A stairway in a smokeproof enclosure shall not continue below the grade of the remaining aisles leading thereto.
level exit unless an approved barrier is provided at the ground floor level to
prevent persons from accidentally continuing into the basement. chan robles (5) Slope. The slope portion of aisles shall not exceed 1 in 8.
virtual law library

(m) Seats
(j) Exit Outlets, Courts, and Passageways. Every exit shall discharge into a
public way, exit court, or exit passageway. Every exit court shall discharge
into a public way or exit passageway. Passageways shall be without openings (1) Seat Spacing. With standard seating the spacing of rows of seats from
other than required exits and shall have walls, floors, and ceilings of the back-to-back shall be not less than 84 centimeters (2 feet, 9 inches), nor shall
building but shall be not less than one-hour fire-resistive construction. less than 69 centimeters (2 feet, 3 inches) plus the sum of the thickness of
the back and inclination of the back. Automatic or self-rising seats shall be
measured in the seat-up position, other seats shall be measured in the seat-
(1) Width. Every exit court and exit passageway shall be at least as wide as down position. With continental seating, the spacing of rows of unoccupied
the required total width of the tributary exits, such as required width being seats shall provide a clear width measured horizontally, as follows: 45
based on the occupant load served. The required width of exit courts or exit centimeters (18 inches) clear for rows of 18 seats or less; 51 centimeters (20
passageways shall be unobstructed except as permitted in corridors. At any inches) clear for rows of 35 seats or less; 51 centimeters (21 inches) clear for
point where the width of an exit court is reduced from any cause, the rows of 45 seats or less; and 56 centimeters (22 inches) clear for rows of 46
reduction in width shall be affected gradually by a guardrail at least 90 seats or more.
centimeters (3 feet) in height. The guardrail shall make an angle of not more
than 30 degrees with the exit court. (2) Width. The width of any seat shall not less than 45 centimeters (1 foot, 6
inches).
(2) Slope. The slope of exit courts shall not exceed 1 in 10. The slope of exit
passageways shall not exceed 1 in 8.
(n) Special Hazards
(3) Number of Exits. Every exit court shall be provided with exits as required
by this Code.
(1) Boiler Rooms. Except in Group A Occupancies, every boiler room and
(4) Openings. All openings into an exit court less than 3.00 meters (10 feet) every room containing an incinerator or L-P Gas or liquid fuel-fired
wide shall be protected by fire assemblies having a three-fourths-hour fire equipment shall be provided with at least two means of egress, one of which
resistive rating: Except, That openings more than 3.00 meters (10 feet) above may be a ladder. All interior openings shall be protected as set by
the floor of the exit court may be unprotected. internationally recognized and accepted practice for dual purpose fire exit
doors.

(k) Exit Signs and Illumination. Exits shall be illuminated at any time the (2) Cellulose Nitrate Handling. Film laboratories, projection rooms, and nitro-
building is occupied with light having an intensity of not less than one-foot cellulose processing rooms shall have not less than two exits.
candle at floor level: Except, That for Group A Occupancies the exit
illumination shall be provided with separate circuits or separated sources of
power (but not necessarily separate from exit signs) when these are required (o) Reviewing Stands, Grandstands, and Bleachers
for exit sign illumination.

(l) Aisles. Every portion of every building in which are installed seats, tables, (1) Height of Stands. Stands employing combustible framing shall be limited
merchandise, equipment, or similar materials shall be provided with aisles to 11 rows or 2.70 meter (9 feet) in height.
leading to an exit.
(2) Design Requirements. The minimum unit live load for reviewing stands,
grandstands, and bleachers shall be 488 kilograms per square meter (100
(1) Width. Every aisle shall be not less than 90 centimeters (3 feet) wide if pounds per square foot) of horizontal projection for the structure as a whole.
serving only one side, and not less than 1.07 meters (3 feet, 6 inches) wide if Seat and footboards shall be 178.5 kilograms per linear meter (120 pounds
serving both sides. Such minimum width shall be measured at the point per linear foot). The sway force, applied to seats, shall be 35.7 kilograms per
farthest from an exit, cross aisles, or foyer and shall be increased by 4 linear meter (24 pounds per linear foot) parallel to the seats and 14.8
centimeters (1 1/2 inches) for each 1.50 meters (5 feet) in length toward the kilograms per linear meter (10 pounds per linear foot) perpendicular to the
exit, cross aisle, or foyer. With continental spacing, side aisle shall be not less seats. Sway forces need not be applied simultaneously with other lateral
than 1.12 meters (3 feet, 8 inches) in width. forces.

(2) Exit Distance. In area occupied by seats and in Group H and I Occupancies (3) Spacing of Seats
without seats, the line of travel to an exit door by an aisle shall not be not
more than 46.00 meters (150 feet). With standard spacing, as specified in
this Code, aisles shall be so located that there will be not more than six (3.1) Row Spacing. The minimum spacing of rows of seats measured from
intervening seats between any seat and the nearest aisle. With continental back-to-back shall be: 55 centimeters (22 inches) for seats without backrests
spacing, the number of intervening seats may be increased to 29 where exit in open air standards; 76 centimeters (30 inches) for seats with backrests;
doors are provided along each aisle of the row of seats at the rate of one pair and 84 centimeters (33 inches) for chair seating. There shall be a space of not
of exit doors for five rows of seats. Such exit doors shall provide a minimum less than 30 centimeters (12 inches) between the back of each seat and front
clear width of 1.75 meters (5 feet, 6 inches). of the seat immediately behind it.

(3) Cross Aisle. Aisles shall terminate in a cross aisle, foyer, or exit. The width (3.2) Rise Between Rows. The maximum rise from one row of seats to the
of the cross aisle shall be not less than the sum of the required width of the next shall not exceed 40 centimeters (16 inches).
widest aisle plus 50 per cent of the total required width of the remaining
(3.3) Seating Capacity. For determining the seating capacity of a stand, the provided with guardrails. Handrails at the front of stands and adjacent to an
width of any seat shall be not less than 45 centimeters (18 inches) nor more aisle shall be designed at resist a load of 74 kilograms per linear meter (50
than 48 centimeters (19 inches). pounds per linear foot) applied at the top rail. Other handrails shall be
designed at resist a load of 9 kilograms (20 pounds).
(3.4) Number of Seats Between Aisles. The number of seats between any
seats and an aisle shall not be greater than 15 for open air stands with seats (7) Footboards. Footboards shall be provided for all rows of seats above the
without backrests; 9 for open air stands with seats having backrest in third row, or beginning at such point where the seating plank is more than 60
buildings, and 6 for seats with backrest in building. centimeters (2 feet) above grade.

(4) Aisles (8) Exits

(4.1) Aisles Required. Aisles shall be provided in all stands: Except, That aisles (8.1) Distance to Exit. The line of travel to an exit shall be not more than
may be omitted when all the following conditions exists: Seats are without 45.00 meters (150 feet). For stands with seats without backrests this distance
backrest; the rise from row to row does not exceed 30 centimeters (12 may be measured by direct line from a seat to the exit from the stand.
inches) per row; the number of rows does not exceed 11 in height; the top
seating board is not over 3.00 meters (10 feet) above grade; and first seating (8.2) Aisle Used as Exit. An aisle may be considered as only one exit unless it
board is not more than 50 centimeters (20 inches) above grade. is continuous at both ends to a legal building exit or to a safe dispersal area.

(4.2) Obstructions. No obstruction shall be placed in the required width of (8.3) Two Exits Required. A stand with the first seating board not more than
any aisle or exitway. 50 centimeters (20 inches) above grade of floor may be considered to have
two exits when the bottom of the stands is open at both ends. Every stand or
(4.3) Stairs Required. When an aisle is elevated more than 20 centimeters (8 section of a stand within a building shall have at least two means of egress
inches) above grade, the aisle shall be provided with a stairway or ramp when the stand accommodates more than 50 persons. Every open air stand
whose width is not less than the width of the aisles. having seats without backrest shall have at least two means of egress when
the stand accommodates more than 300 persons.
(4.4) Dead End. No vertical aisle shall have a dead and more than 16 rows in
depth regardless of the number of exits required. (8.4) Three Exits Required. Three exits shall be required for stands within a
building when there are more than 300 occupants within a stands, and for
(4.5) Width. Aisles shall have a minimum width of 1.07 meters (3 feet, 6 open air stands with seats without backrests where a stand or section of a
inches). stand accommodates more than 1000 occupants.

(8.5) Four Exits Required. Four exits shall be required when a stand or section
(5) Stairs and Ramps. The requirements in this Code shall apply to all stairs of stand accommodates more than 1000 occupants. Except, That for an open
and ramps except for portions that pass through the seating area. air stand with seats without backrest four exits need not be provided unless
there are accommodations for more than 3000 occupants.

(5.1) Stair Rise and Run. The maximum rise of treads shall not exceed 20 (8.6) Width. The total width of exits in meters shall be not less than the total
centimeters (8 inches) and the minimum width of the run shall be 28 occupant load served divided by 165 (by 50 in feet): Except, that for open air
centimeters (11 inches). The maximum variations in the width of treads in stands with seats without backrests the total width of exits in meters shall be
any one flight shall be not more than 5 millimeters (3/16 inch) and the not less than the total occupant load served divided by 500 (150 in feet)
maximum variation in the height of two adjacent rises shall not exceed 5 when exiting by stairs, and divided by 650 (by 200 in feet) when exiting by
millimeters (3/16 inch). ramps or horizontally. When both horizontal and stair exits are used, the
total width of exits shall be determined by using both figures as applicable.
(5.2) Ramp Slope. The slope of ramp shall be of approved nonslip material. No exit shall be less than 1.07 meters (42 inches) in width. Exits shall be
arranged a reasonable distance apart. When but two exits are provided, they
(5.3) Handrails. A ramp with a slope exceeding 1 in 10 shall have handrails. shall be spaced not less than one-fifth of the perimeter apart.
Stairs for stands shall have handrails. Handrails shall conform to the
requirements of this Code.
(9) Securing of Chairs. Chairs and benches used on raised stands shall be
secured to the platform upon which they are placed: Except, That when less
(6) Guardrails than 25 chairs are used upon a single raised platform the fastening of seats
to the platform may be omitted. When more than 500 loose chairs are used
in connection with athletic events, chairs shall be fastened together in groups
(6.1) Guardrails shall be required in all locations where the top of seat plank of not less than three, and shall be tied or staked to the ground.
is more than 1.20 meters (4 feet) above the grade and at the front of stands
elevated more than 60 centimeters (2 feet) above grade. Where only (10) Safe Dispersal Area. Each safe dispersal area shall have at least two exits.
sections of stands are used, guardrails shall be provided as required in this If more than 6000 persons are to be accommodated within such an area,
Code. there shall be a minimum of three exits, and for more than 9000 persons
there shall be a minimum of four exits. The aggregate clear width of exits
(6.2) Railings shall be 1.07 meters (3 feet, 6 inches) above the rear of a seat from a safe dispersal area shall be determined on the basis of not less than
plank or 1.07 meters (3 feet 6 inches) above the rear of the steps in an aisle one exit unit 56 centimeters (22 inches) for each 500 persons to be
when the guardrail is parallel and adjacent to the aisle: Except, That the accommodated and no exit shall be less than 1.12 meters (44 inches) in
height may be reduced to 90 centimeters (3 feet) for guardrails located in width. Exits shall be a reasonable distance apart but shall be spaced not less
front of the grandstand. than one-fifth of the perimeter of the area apart from each other.

(6.3) A midrail shall be placed adjacent to any seat to limit the open distance
above the top of any part of a seat to 3.00 meters (10 feet) where the seat is SECTION 8.01.08: Skylights
at the extreme end or at the extreme rear of the bleachers of grandstand.
The intervening space shall have one additional rail midway in the opening: (a) All skylights shall be constructed with metal frames, except those for
Except, That railings may be omitted when stands are placed directly against Groups A and J Occupancies. Frames of skylights shall be designed to carry
a wall or fence giving equivalent protection; stairs and ramps shall be loads required for roofs. All skylights, the glass of which is set an angle of less
than 45 degrees from the horizontal, if located above the first story, shall be
at least 10 centimeters (4 inches) above the roofs. Curbs on which the (2) Walls not less than 1.50 meters (5 feet) from an exterior wall of a Type IV
skylight rests shall be constructed of incumbustible materials except for Type building may be of one-hour fire-resistive incombustible construction.
I or II constructions.

(b) Spacing between supports in one direction for flat wired glass skylights The above restriction shall not prohibit the placing of wood flagpoles or
shall not exceed 7.60 meters (25 feet). Corrugated wired glass may have similar structures on the roof of any building.
supports 1.50 meters (5 feet) apart in the direction of the corrugation. All
glass in skylights shall be wire glass: Except, That skylights over vertical shafts (e) Towers and Spires. Towers or spires when closed shall have exterior walls
extending through two or more stories shall be glazed with plain glass as as required for the building to which they are attached. Towers not enclosed
specified in this Code: Provided, That wire glass may be used if ventilation and which extend more than 23.00 meters (75 feet) above grade shall have
equal to not less than one-eighth the cross-sectional area of the shaft but their framework construction of iron, steel, or reinforced concrete. No tower
never less than 1.20 meters (4 feet) is provided at the top of such shaft. Any or spire shall occupy more than one-fourth of the street frontage of any
glass not wire glass shall be protected above and below with a screen building to which is attached and in no case shall the base area exceed 150
constructed of wire not smaller than 12 U.S. gauge with a mesh not larger square meters (1600 square feet) unless it conforms entirely to the type of
than 2.5 centimeters (1 inch). The screen shall be substantially supported construction requirements of the building to which it is attached and is
below the glass. limited in height as a main part of the building. If the area of the tower or
spire exceeds 10.00 square meters (107 square feet) at any horizontal cross
(c) Skylights installed for the use of photographers may be constructed of section, its supporting frame shall extend directly to the ground. The roof
metal frames and plate glass without wire netting. covering of the spires shall be as required for the main roof of the roof of the
rest of the structure. Skeleton towers used as radio masts, neon signs, or
(d) Ordinary glass may be used in the roofs and skylights for greenhouses, advertisement frames and placed on the roof of any building shall be
provided the height of the greenhouse at the ridge does not exceed 6.00 constructed entirely of incombustible materials when more than 7.60 meters
meters (20 feet) above the grade. The use of wood in the frames of skylights (25 feet) in height and shall be directly supported on an incombustible
will be permitted in greenhouses outside of highly restrictive Fire Zones if the framework to the ground. No such skeleton towers shall be supported on
height of the skylights does not exceeds 6.00 meters (20 feet) above the roofs of combustible framings. They shall be design to withstand a wind load
grade, but in other cases metal frames and metal sash bars shall be used. from any direction in addition to any other loads.

(e) Glass used for the transmission of light, if placed in floors or sidewalks, SECTION 8.01.11: Chimneys, Fireplaces, and Barbecues
shall be supported by metal or reinforced concrete frames, and such glass
shall be not less than 12.7 millimeters (1/2 inch) in thickness. Any such glass (a) Chimneys
over 103 square centimeters (16 square inches) in area shall have wire mesh
embedded in the same or shall be provided with a wire screen underneath as (1) Structural Design. Chimneys shall be designed, anchored, supported,
specified for skylights in this Code. All portions of the floor lights or sidewalk reinforced, constructed, and installed in accordance with generally accepted
lights shall be of the same strength as required for floor or sidewalk lights principles of engineering. Every chimney shall be capable of producing a draft
shall be of the same strength as construction, except in cases where the floor at the appliance not less than the required for the safe operation of the
is surrounded by a railing not less than 1.07 meters (3 feet, 6 inches) in appliance connected thereto. No chimney shall support any structural load
height, in which case the construction shall be calculated for not less than than its own weight unless it is designed to act as a supporting member.
roof loads. Chimneys in an wood-framed building shall be anchored laterally at the
ceiling and each floor line which is more than 1.80 meters (6 feet) above
SECTION 8.01.09: Bays, Porches, Balconies grade, except when entirely within the framework on when designed to be
free standing.
(a) Walls and floors in bay and oriel windows shall conform to the
construction allowed for exterior walls and floors of the type of construction (2) Walls. Every masonry chimneys shall have walls of masonry units, bricks,
of the building to which they are attached. The roof covering of a bay or oriel stones, listed masonry units, reinforced concrete or equivalent solid
window shall conform to the requirements of the roofing of the main roof. thickness of hollow masonry and lined with suitable liners in accordance with
Exterior balconies attached to or supported by walls required to be of the following requirements:
masonry, shall have brackets or beams constructed of incombustible (2.1) Masonry Chimneys for Residential-type Appliances. Masonry chimneys
materials. Railings shall be provided for balconies, landings, or porches, shall be constructed of masonry units or reinforced concrete with walls not
which are more than 75 centimeters (2 feet, 6 inches) above grade. less than 10 centimeters (4 inches) thick or rubble stone masonry not less
than 30 centimeters (12 inches) thick. The chimney linear shall be in
SECTION 8.01.10: Penthouses and Roof Structures accordance with this Code.

(a) Height. No penthouse or other projection above the roof when used as an (2.2) Masonry Chimneys for Low-heat-Appliances. Masonry chimneys shall be
enclosure for tanks or elevators which run to the roof and in all other cases constructed of masonry units or reinforced concrete with walls not less than
shall be not extend more than 3.60 meters (12 feet)in height above the roof. 20 centimeters (8 inches) thick except that rubbles stone masonry shall be
not less than 30 centimeters (12 inches) thick. The chimneys linear shall be in
(b) Area. The aggregate area of all penthouses and other roof structures shall accordance with this Code.
not exceed 33-1/3 per cent of the area of the supporting roof.
(2.3) Masonry Chimneys for Medium-heat-Appliances. Masonry chimneys for
(c) Prohibited Uses. No penthouse, bulkhead, or any other similar projection medium-heat appliances shall be constructed of solid masonry units of
above the roof shall be used for purposes other than shelter of mechanical reinforced concrete not less than 20 centimeters (8 inches) thick, except that
equipment or shelter of vertical shaft openings in the roof. A penthouse or stone masonry shall be not at less than 30 centimeters (12 inches) thick and,
bulkhead used for purposes other than that allowed by this Section shall in addition shall be lined with not less than 10 centimeters (4 inches) of
conform to the requirements of this Code for an additional story. firebrick laid in a solid bed of fire clay mortar with solidity filled head, bed,
and wall joints, starting not less than 60 centimeters (2 feet) below the
(d) Construction. Roof structures constructed with walls, floors, and roof as chimney connector entrance and extending for a distance of at least 7.60
required for the main portion of the building except in the following cases: meters (25 feet) above the chimney connector entrance. Chimneys extending
7.60 meters (25 feet) or less above the chimney connector shall be lined to
the top.
(1) On Types II and III buildings the exterior walls and roofs of penthouses
which are 1.50 meters (5 feet) pr more from an adjacent property line may (2.4) Masonry Chimneys for High-heat Appliances. Masonry chimneys for
be of one-hour fire-resistive incombustible construction. high-heat appliances shall be constructed with double walls of sold masonry
units of reinforced concrete not less than 20 centimeters (8 inches) in when built within a structure, or with 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) when the
thickness, with an air space of not less than 5 centimeters (2 inches) between chimney is built entirely outside the structure.
walls. The inside of the interior walls shall be of firebrick not less than 10
centimeters (4 inches) in thickness laid in a solid bid of fire clay mortar with (11) Termination. All incineration shall terminate in a substantially
solidly filled head, bed and wall joints. constructed spark arrester having a mesh not exceeding 19 centimeters (3/4
inch).
(2.5) Masonry Chimneys for Incinerators Installed in Multi-Story Buildings
(Apartment-type Incinerators). Chimneys for incinerators installed in multi- (12) Cleanouts. Cleanout opening shall be provided at the base of every
story buildings using the chimney passageway as a refuse chute where the masonry chimney.
horizontal grate area of combustion chamber does not exceed 0.84 square
meter (9 square feet) shall have walls of solid masonry or reinforced (b) Fireplaces and Barbecues. Fireplaces, barbecues, smoke chamber, and
concrete, not less than 10 centimeters (4 inches) thick with a chimneys lining fireplace chimneys shall be of solid masonry or reinforced concrete and shall
as specified in this Code. If the grate area of such an incinerator exceeds 0.84 conform to the minimum requirements specified in this Code. Factory-built
square meter (9 square feet), walls shall be not less than 10 centimeters (4 metal room heating stoves may be used in accordance with generally
inches) of firebrick except that higher than 9.00 meters (30 feet) above the recognized engineering practices.
roof of the combustion chamber, common brick alone, 20 centimeters (8
inches) in thickness, may be used.
(1) Fireplace Walls. Walls of fireplaces shall be not less than 20 centimeters
(2.6) Masonry Chimneys for Commercial and Industrial-type Incinerators. (8 inches) in thickness. Walls of fireboxes shall be not less than 25
Masonry chimneys for commercial and industrial-type incinerators of a size centimeters (10 inches) in thickness: Except, That where a lining of firebrick is
designed for not more than 115 kilograms (250 pounds) or refuse per hour used such walls shall be not less than 20 centimeters (8 inches) in thickness.
and having a horizontal grate area not exceeding 0.84 meter (9 square feet) The firebox shall be not less than 50 centimeters (20 inches) in depth. The
shall have walls of solid masonry or reinforced concrete not less than 10 maximum thickness of joints in firebrick shall be 6 millimeter (1/4 inch).
centimeters (4 inches) thick with lining shall extend for not less than 10
centimeters (4 inches) for firebrick, which lining shall extend for not less than (2) Hoods. Metal hoods used as a part of a fireplace or barbecue shall be not
12.00 meters (40 feet) above the roof of the combustion chamber. If the less than No. 18 gauge copper, galvanized steel, or other equivalent
design capacity or grate area of such an incinerator exceed 115 kilograms corrosion-resistant ferrous metal with all seams and connections of
(250 pounds) per hour and 0.84 square meter (9 square feet) respectively, smokeproof unsoldered construction. The hoods shall be sloped at an angle
walls shall be not less than 20 centimeters (8 inches) thick, lined with not less of 45 degrees or less from the vertical and shall extend horizontally at least
than 10 centimeters (4 inches) of firebrick extending the full height of the 15 centimeters (6 inches) beyond the limits of the firebox. Metal hoods shall
chimney. be kept a minimum of 40 centimeters (18 inches) from combustion materials
(3) Linings. Fire clay chimney lining shall be not less than 16 millimeters (5/8 unless approved for reduced clearances.
inch) thick. The lining shall extend from 20 centimeters (8 inches) below the
lowest inlet or, in the case of fireplaces, from the throat of the fireplace to a (3) Circulators. Approved metal heat circulators may be installed fireplaces.
point above enclosing masonry walls. Fire clay chimney linings shall be
installed ahead of the construction of the chimney as it is carried up, (4) Smoke Chamber. Front and side walls shall be not less than 20
carefully bedded one on the other in fire clay mortar, with close-fitting joints centimeters (8 inches) in thickness. Smoke chamber back walls shall not be
left so smooth on the inside. Firebrick not less than 5 centimeters (2 inches) not less than 15 centimeters (6 inches) in thickness.
thick may be used in place of fire clay chimney.
(5) Fireplace Chimneys. Walls of chimneys without flue lining shall be not less
(4) Area. No chimney passageway shall be smaller in area than the vent than 20 centimeters (8 inches) in thickness. Walls of chimneys with flue lining
connection on the appliance attached thereto. shall be not less than 10 centimeters (4 inches) in thickness and shall not be
constructed in accordance with this Code.
(5) Height. Every masonry chimney shall extend at least 60 centimeters (2
feet) above the part of the roof through which it passes and at least 60 (6) Clearance to Combustible Material. Combustible material shall not be
centimeters (2 feet) above the highest elevation of any part of a building placed within 5 centimeters (2 inches) of fireplace, smoke chamber, or
within 3.00 meters (10 feet) to the chimney. chimneys walls when built entirely within a structure, or within 2.5
centimeters (1 inch) when the chimney is built entirely outside the structure.
(6) Corbeling. No masonry chimney shall be corbel from a wall more than 15 In lieu of 2.5-centimeter (1 inch) clearance between chimney and exterior
centimeters (6 inches) nor shall a masonry chimney be corbeled from a wall wall, 12 millimeters (1/2 inch) gypsum board may be substituted.
which is less than 30 centimeters (12 inches) in thickness unless it projects Combustible materials shall not be placed within 15 centimeters (6 inches) of
equally on each side of the wall. In the second story of a two-story building of the fireplace opening. No such combustible material within 30 centimeters
Group A Occupancy, corbeling of masonry chimneys on the exterior of the (12 inches) of the fireplace opening shall project more than 3 millimeters
enclosing walls may equal the wall thickness. In every case the corbeling shall (1/8 inch) for each 2.5-centimeter (1 inch) clearance from such opening. No
not exceed 2.5-centimeter (1 inch) projection for each course of brick. part of metal hoods used as part of a fireplace, barbecue, or heating stove
shall be less than 40 centimeters (18 inches) from combustible material. This
(7) Change in Size or Shape. No change in the size or shape of a masonry clearance may be reduced to the minimum requirements set forth in this
chimney where the chimney passes through the roof shall be made within a Code.
distance of 15 centimeters (6 inches) above or below the roof joists or
rafters. (7) Areas of Flues, Throats, and Dampers. The net cross-sectional area of the
flue and of the throat between the firebox and the smoke chamber of a
(8) Separation. When more than one passageway is contained in the same fireplaces shall be not less than the requirements according to internationally
chimney, masonry separation at least 10 centimeters (4 inches) thick bonded recognized and accepted principles of engineering. Where dampers are used,
into the masonry wall of the chimney shall be provided to separate they shall be of not less than No. 12 gauge metal. When fully opened,
passageways. damper openings shall be not less than 90 per cent of the required flue area.
When fully opened, damper blade shall not extent the line of inner face of
(9) Inlets. Every inlet to masonry chimneys shall enter the side thereof and the flue.
shall be of not less than 3 millimeters (1/8 inch) thick metal or 16 millimeters
(5/8 inch) refractory materials. (8) Lintel. Masonry over the fireplace opening shall be supported by an
incombustible lintel.
(10) Clearance. Combustible materials shall not be placed within 5
centimeters (2 inches) of smoke chamber walls or masonry chimney walls (9) Hearth. Every fireplace shall be provided with a brick, concrete, stone, or
other approved incombustible hearth slab at least 30 centimeters (12 inches)
wider on each side than the fireplace opening and projecting at least 30
centimeters (18 inches) therefrom. This slab shall be not less than 10 (7) Signs. An iron or bronze sign with raised letters at least 2.5 centimeters (1
centimeters (4 inches) thick and shall be supported by incombustible inch) high shall be rigidly attached to the building adjacent to all Siamese
materials or reinforced to carry its own weight and all imposed loads. connections and such sign shall read: "CONNECTION TO DRY STANDPIPE."
Combustible forms and centering shall be removed.

(c) Wet Standpipes. Every Group H and I Occupancy of any height and every
SECTION 8.01.12: Fire-Extinguishing Systems Group C Occupancy of two or more stories in height, whose corridors are
flanked on both sides, and every Group C Occupancy of two or more stories
(a) Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems: Where Required. Standard in height, whose corridors serve only one row of rooms on one side and with
automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall comply with requirements of an open court on the other side, and every Group B, D, E, F, and G Occupancy
generally recognized and accepted practices and shall be installed in the of three or more stories in height and every Group G and E Occupancy over
following places: 1800 square meters (20,000 square feet) in area shall be equipped with one
(1) In every basement or cellar with an area of 200 square meters (2152 or more interior wet standpipes extending from the cellar or basement into
square feet) or more which is used for habitation, recreation, dining, study, the topmost story: Provided, That Group H buildings having no stage and
or work, and which base an occupant load of more than 20. having a seating capacity of less than 500 need to be equipped with interior
standpipes.
(2) In all dressing rooms, rehearsal rooms, workshops or factories, and other
rooms with an occupant load of more than 10, assembly halls under Groups
H and I Occupies with an occupant load of more than 500, and if the exit (1) Construction. Interior wet standpipes shall be constructed as required for
doors of said rooms are more than 30.00 meters (100 feet) from the nearest dry standpipes.
safe fire dispersal area of the building or opening to a court or street.
(2) Size
(3) In all rooms used as storage or handling of photographic and x-ray
nitrocellulose films and other inflammable articles. (2.1) Interior wet standpipes shall have an internal diameter sufficient to
(b) Dry Standpipes. Every building six more stories in height shall be deliver 189 liters (50 gallons) of water per minute under 2.1 kilograms per
equipped with one or more dry standpipes. square centimeter (30 pounds per square inch) pressure at the lose
connection, based on the available water supply. Buildings of Groups H and I
Occupancies shall have wet standpipe systems capable of delivering the
(1) Construction and tests. Dry standpipes shall be of wrought iron or required quantity and pressure from any two outlets simultaneously; for all
galvanized steel and together with fittings and connections shall be of other occupancies only one outlet need be figured to be at one time. In no
sufficient strength to withstand 20 kilograms per square centimeter (300 case shall the internal diameter of a vet standpipe be less than 5 centimeters
pounds per square inch) of water pressure when ready for service, without (2 inches), except when the standpipe is attached to an automatic fire-
leaking at the joints, valves, or fittings. Tests shall be conducted by the owner extinguishing system as set by the internationally recognized and accepted
or his representative or contractor in the presence of a representative of the engineering practices.
City or Municipal Fire Department whenever deemed necessary for the
purpose of certification of its proper function. chan robles virtual law library (2.2) Any approved formula which determines pipe sizes on a pressure drop
basis may be used to determine pipe size for wet standpipe systems. The
(2) Size. Dry standpipes shall be of such size as to be capable of delivering Building Official may require delivery and pressure tests on completed wet
946 liters (250 gallons) per minute from each of any three outlets standpipe systems before approving such systems.
simultaneously under the pressure created by one fire engine or pumper,
based on the existing city equipment available. The local Fire Department (3) Numbered Required. Wet standpipes shall be so located that any portion
shall be consulted as to the proper size and threads of those connections. of the can be reached therefrom with a hose not exceeding 23.00 meters (75
feet) in length.
(3) Number Required. Every building six or more stories in height where the
area of any floor above the fifth floor is 950 square meters (10,000 square (4) Location. In Groups H and I Occupancies, outlets shall be located as
feet) or less shall be equipped with not less than one dry standpipe and an follows: one on either side of the stage, one at the rear of the auditorium,
additional standpipe shall be installed for each additional 950 square meters and one at the rear of the balconies. Where occupant loads are less than 500
(10,000 square feet) or fraction thereof. the above requirements may be waived: Provided, That portable fire-
extinguishers of appropriate capacity and type are installed within easy
(4) Location. Standpipes shall be located within stairway landings or near access from the said locations. In Groups B, C, D, E, F, and G Occupancies the
such stairways as possible or immediately inside of an exterior wall and 30 location of all interior wet standpipes shall be in accordance with the
centimeters (12 inches) of an opening in a stairway enclosure of the balcony requirements for dry standpipes: Provided, That at least one wet standpipe is
or vestibule of a smokeproof tower or an outside exit stairway. installed to cover not more than 650 square meters (700 square feet).

(5) Siamese Connection. Subject to the provisions of subparagraph (2), all 10- (5) Outlets. All interior wet standpipes shall be equipped with a 3.8-
centimeter (4-inch) dry standpipes shall be equipped with a two-way centimeter (1-1/2 inch) valve in each story including the basement or cellar
Siamese fire department connection. All 12.5-centimeters (5-inch) dry of the building , and located not less than e0 centimeters (1 foot) nor more
standpipes shall be equipped with a three-way Siamese fire department than 1.50 meters (5 feet) above the floor.
connection and 15-centimeter (6-inch) dry standpipes shall be equipped with
a fourway Siamese fire department connection. All Siamese inlet connections (6) Threads. All hose threads in connection with the installation of such
shall be located on a street front of the building and not less than 30 standpipes, including valves and reducing fittings, shall be uniform with that
centimeters (12 inches) nor more than 1.20 meters (4 feet above the grade used by the local Fire Department.
and shall be equipped with clapper-checks and substantial plugs. All Siamese
inlet connections shall be recessed in the wall or otherwise substantially (7) Water Supplies. All interior wet standpipes shall be connected to a street
protected. water main not less than 10 centimeters (4 inches) in diameter, or when the
water pressure is sufficient, to a water tank of sufficient size as provided in
(6) Outlets. All dry standpipes shall be extend from the ground floor to and subparagraph (8). When more than one interior wet standpipe is required in
over the roof and shall be equipped with a 6.3-centimeter (2-1/2-inch) outlet the building, such standpipes shall be connected at their bases or at their
not more than 1.20 meters (4 feet) above the floor level at each story. All dry tops by pipes of equal size.
standpipes shall be equipped with a two-way 6.3-centimeters (2-1/2 inch)
outlet above the roof. All outlets shall be equipped with gate valves with (8) Pressure and Gravity Tanks. Tanks shall have a capacity sufficient to
substantial chains. furnish at least 1346 liters (250 gallons) per minute for a period of not less
than 10 minutes. Such tanks shall be located so as to provide not less than operating mechanism or obstruct the distribution of water from the
11.3 kilograms (25 pounds) pressure at the topmost hose outlet for its entire automatic fire-extinguishing systems.
supply. Discharge pipes from pressure tanks shall extend 5 centimeters (2
inches) into and above the bottom of such tanks. All tanks shall be tested in (3) Design. Ventilators, penthouses, and supporting framework shall be
place after installation and proved tightly at a hydrostatic pressure 50 per designed in accordance with this Code.
cent in excess of the working pressure required. Where such tanks are used
for domestic purpose the supply pipe for such purposes shall be located at or (4) Automatic Openings. Each ventilator shall be arranged to open
above the center line of such tanks. Incombustible supports shall be provided automatically after the outbreak of fire by the use of an approved automatic
for all such supply tanks and not less than 90-centimeters (3-foot) clearance closing device as defined in this Code. The fusible link and operating cable
shall be maintained over the top and under the bottom of all pressure tanks. shall hold each door closed against a minimum 13.5-kilogram (30-pound)
counterforce exerted by springs or counterweights. This minimum
(9) Fire Pumps. Fire pumps shall have a capacity of not less than 1346 liters counterforce shall be exerted on each door through its entire arc of travel
(250 gallons) per minute with a pressure of not less than 11.3 kilograms (25 and for a minimum 115 degrees. A manual control shall be provided.
pounds) at the topmost hose outlet. The source of supply for such pump shall
be a street water main of not less than 10-centimeter (4-inch) diameter or a (5) Spring Actuations. Springs, when employed to actuate ventilator doors,
well or cistern containing a one-hour supply. Such pumps shall be supplied shall be capable of maintaining full required tension indefinitely. Springs shall
with an adequate source of power of the building and shall be automatic in not be stressed more than 50 per cent of their rated capacity and shall not be
operation. located directly in the air stream, nor exposed to the elements.

(10) Hose and Hose Reels. Each hose outlet of all interior wet standpipes (6) Location of Fusible Links. A fusible link shall be placed in the cable control
shall be supplied with a hose not less than 3.8 centimeters (1-1/2 inches) in system on the underside of the ventilator at or above the roof line, and shall
diameter. Such hose shall be equipped with a suitable brass or bronze nozzle be so located as not to be affected by the operation of fire-extinguishing
and shall be not over 23.00 meters (75 feet) in length. An approved standard systems.
form of wall hose reel or racks shall be provided for the hose and shall be
located so as to make the hose readily accessible at all times and shall be (7) Control. Remote, manual, or electrical control shall provide for both
recessed in the walls or protected suitable cabinets. opening and closing of the ventilator doors for periodic testing and shall be
located at a point on the stage designated by the Building Official. When
remote control of ventilator is electrical, power failure shall not affect its
(d) Basement Pipe Inlets. Basement pipe inlets shall be installed in the first instant operation in the event of fire. Hand winches may be employed to
floor of every store, warehouse, or factory where there are cellars or facilitate operation of manually controlled ventilators.
basements under same: Except, Where in such cellars or basements there is
installed a fire-extinguishing system as specified in this Code, or where the (8) Curb Construction. Curbs shall constructed as required for the roof.
cellars or basements are used for banking purposes, safe deposit vaults, or
similar uses.
(b) Gridirons

(1) Materials. All basement pipe inlets shall be of cast iron, steel brass, or
bronze with lids of cast brass or bronze and shall consist of a sleeve not less (1) Gridirons, fly galleries, and pin-rails shall be constructed of incombustible
than 20 centimeters (8 inches) in diameter through the floor extending to materials and fire protection of steel and iron may be omitted. Gridirons and
and flush with the ceiling below and with a top flange, recessed with an fly galleries shall be designed to support a live load of not less than 112
inside shoulder, to receive the lid and flush with the finish floor surface. The kilograms per square meter (75 pounds per square foot). Each loft block well
lid shall be a solid casting and have a ring lift recessed on the top thereof, so shall be designed to support 37.2 kilograms per linear meter (250 pounds per
as to be flush. The lid shall have the words "FIRE DEPARTMENT ONLY, DO linear foot) and the block well shall be designed to support the aggregate
NOT COVER UP", cast on the top thereof. The lid shall be installed in such a weight of all the loft block well served. The head block well must be provided
manner as to permit its removal readily from the inlet. with an adequate strongback of lateral brace to offset torque.

(2) Location. Basement pipe inlets shall be strategically located and kept (2) The main counterweight sheave beam shall be designed to support a
readily accessible at all times to the Fire Department. horizontal and vertical uniformly distributed live load sufficient to
accommodate the weight imposed by the total number of loft blocks in the
gridiron. The sheave blocks shall be designed to accommodate the maximum
(e) Approval. All fire-extinguishing systems, including automatic sprinkles, load for the loft blocks or head blocks served with a safety factor of five.
wet and dry standpipes, automatic chemical extinguishers, basement pipe
inlets, and the appurtenance thereto shall meet the approval of the Fire
Department of the particular municipality or city as to installation and (c) Rooms Accessory to Stage. In buildings having a stage, the dressing room
location and shall be subject to such periodic tests as may require. sections, workshops, and storerooms shall be located on the stage side of the
proscenium wall and shall be separated from each other and from the stage
SECTION 8. 01.13: Stages and Platforms by not less than a One-Hour Fire-Resistive Occupancy Separation.

(a) Stage Ventilators. There shall be one or more ventilators constructed of (d) Prosceniums Walls. A stage shall be completely separated from the
metal or other incombustible material near the center and above the highest auditorium by a proscenium wall of not less than two-hour incombustible
part of any working stage raised above the stage roof and having a total construction. The proscenium wall shall extend not less than 1.20 meters (4
ventilation area equal to at least five per cent of the floor area within the feet) above the roof over the auditorium. Proscenium walls may have, in
stage walls. The entire equipment shall conform to the following addition to the main proscenium opening at the orchestra pit level and not
requirements: more than two openings at the stage floor level, each of which shall be not
more than 2.00 square meters (25 square feet) in area. All openings in the
proscenium wall of a stage shall be protected by a fire assembly having a one
(1) Opening Action. Ventilators shall open by spring action or force of gravity and one-half-hour fire-resistive rating. The proscenium opening, which shall
sufficient to overcome the effects of neglect, rust, dirt, or expansion by heat be the main opening for viewing performances, shall be provided with a self-
or warning of the framework. closing fire-resistive curtain according to generally recognized and accepted
engineering practices.
(2) Glass. Glass, if used in ventilators, must be protected against falling on
the stage. A wire screen, if used under the glass, must be so placed that if (e) Stage Floors. The Type of Construction for stage floors shall depend upon
clogged it cannot reduce the required ventilating area of interfere with the the requirement based on the Type of Occupancy and the corresponding fire-
resistive requirements. All parts of the stage floor shall be designed to which when fused by heat will cause closure of the shutter by gravity.
support not less than 185 kilograms per square meter (125 pounds per Shutters of a size greater than 1290 square centimeters (200 square inches)
square foot). Openings through stage floors shall be equipped with tight- shall be equipped with a counter-balance. There shall also be a fusible link
fitting trap doors. located over the upper magazine of each projector, which, upon operating,
will close all the shutters. In addition, there shall be provided suitable means
(f) Platforms. The Type of Construction for platforms shall depend upon the for manually closing all shutters simultaneously from any projector head and
requirements based on the Type of Occupancy and corresponding fire- from a point within the projection room near each exit door. Shutters on
resistive requirements. Enclosed platforms shall be provided with one or openings not in use shall be kept closed: Except, That shutters may be
more ventilators conforming to the requirements of stage ventilators: omitted when acetate (safety) film only is used.
Except, That the total area shall be equal to five per cent of the area of the
platform. When more than one ventilators is provided, they shall be so
spaced as to provide proper exhaust ventilation. Ventilators shall not be (e) Ventilation
required for enclosed platforms having a floor area of 45.00 square meters
(500 square feet) or less.
(1) Inlet. A fresh-air inlet from the exterior of the building not less than 928. 8
(g) Stage Exits. At least one exit not less than 90 centimeters (3 feet) wide square centimeters (114 square inches) and protected with wire netting shall
shall be provided from a passageway not less than 90 centimeters (3 feet) in be installed within 50 millimeters (2 inches) of the floor in every projection
width to a street or exit court. An exit stair not less than 75 centimeters (2 room, the source of which shall be remote from other outside vents or flues.
feet, 6 inches) wide shall be provided for egress from each fly gallery. Each
tier of dressing rooms shall be provided with at least two means of egress (2) Outlets. Ventilation shall be provided by one or more mechanical exhaust
each not less than 75 centimeters (2 feet, 6 inches) wide and all such stairs systems which shall draw air from each arc lamp and from one or more
shall be constructed as specified in this Code. The stairs required in this points near the ceiling. Systems shall exhaust to outdoors either directly or
Subsection need to be enclosed. through an incombustible flue used for no other purpose. Exhaust capacity
shall be not less than 0.42 cubic meter (15 cubic feet) nor more than 1.40
SECTION 8.05.14: Motion Picture Projection Rooms cubic meters (50 cubic feet) per minute for each are lamp plus 5.60 cubic
meters (200 cubic feet) per minute for the room itself. Systems shall be
(a) General. The provisions of this Section shall apply only where ribbon type controlled from within the enclosure and have pilot lights to indicate
motion picture film in excess of 22-millimeter (7/8-inch) width and electric operation. The exhaust system serving the projection room may be extended
are projection equipment are used. Every motion picture machine using to cover room associated therewith such as rewind rooms. No dampers shall
ribbon type in excess of 22-millimeter (7/8-inch) width and electric arc be installed in such exhaust systems. Ventilation of these rooms shall not be
projection equipment, together with all electrical devices, rheostats, connected in any way ventilating or air conditioning system serving other
machines, and all such films present in any Group C, I, or H Occupancy, shall portions of the building. Exhaust ducts shall be of incombustible material,
be enclosed in a projection room large enough to permit the operator to and shall either be kept 25 millimeters (1 inch) from combustible material or
walk freely on either side and back of the machine. covered with 10 millimeters (1/2 inch) of incombustible heat-insulating
material.
(b) Construction. Every projection room shall be of not less than one-hour
fire-resistive construction throughout and the walls and ceiling shall be
finished with incombustible material. The ceiling shall be not less than 2.40 (f) Regulation of Equipment. All shelves, fixtures, and fixed equipment in a
meters (8 feet) from the finished floor. The room shall have a floor area of projection room shall be constructed of incombustible materials. All films not
not less than 7.00 square meters (80 square feet) and 3.50 square meters (40 in actual use shall be stored in metal cabinets having individuals
square feet) for each additional machine. compartments for reels or shall be in generally accepted shipping containers.
No solder shall be used in the construction of such metal cabinets.
(c) Exits. Every projection room shall have at least two doorway separated by
not less than one-third the perimeter of the room, each at least 75 (g) Sanitary Requirements. Every projection room shall be provided with
centimeters (2 feet, 6 inches) wide and 2.00 meters (6 feet, 7 inches) high. All unenclosed water closet and lavatory.
entrances to a projection room shall be protected by a self-closing fire
assembly having a three-fourths hour fire-resistive rating. Such doors shall SECTION 8.01.15: Lathing, Plastering, and Installation of Wallboards
open outward and lead to proper exits as required in this Code and shall not
be equipped with any latch. The maximum width of such door need be no (a) General. The installation of lath, plaster, and gypsum wallboards shall
more than 75 centimeters (2 feet, 6 inches). conform to the fire-resistive rating requirements and the Type of
Construction of the building and shall be designed in accordance with the
(d) Ports and Openings. Ports in projection room walls shall be of three kinds: legally accepted principles of engineering.
projection ports; observation ports; and combination ports used for both
observation and for stereopticon, spot, or floodlight machines. TITLE 9 - MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL REGULATIONS
Chapter 9.01 - MECHANICAL REGULATIONS

(1) Ports Required. There shall be provided for each motion picture projector SECTION 9.01.01: Mechanical Code
not more than one projection port, which shall be limited in area to 774
square centimeters (120 square inches), and not more than one observation (a) All mechanical systems equipment, and installations mentioned in this
port, which shall be limited in area to 1290 square centimeters (200 square Code shall conform to the provisions of the Mechanical Code of the
inches). There shall be not more than three combination ports, each of which Philippines, latest edition, adopted and promulgated by the Board of
shall not exceed 75 centimeters by 60 centimeters (30 inches by 24 inches). Mechanical Engineering Examiners pursuant to Commonwealth Act
Each port opening shall be completely covered with a pane of glass: Except, Numbered 294, as amended.
That when acetate (safety) film is used projection ports may be increased in
size to an area not to exceed 4644 square centimeters (720 square inches). Chapter 9.02 - ELECTRICAL REGULATIONS

(2) Shutters. Each port and every other opening in projection room walls, SECTION 9.02.01: Electrical Code
including any fresh-air inlets but excluding exit doors and exhaust ducts, shall
be provided with a shutter of not less than No. 10 U.S. gauge sheet metal or (a) All electrical systems and installations mentioned in this Code shall
its equivalent large enough to overlap at least 25 millimeters (1 inch) on all conform to the provisions of the Philippine Electrical Code, latest edition,
sides of such opening. Shutters shall be arranged to slide without binding in adopted and promulgated by the Board of Electrical Engineering Examiners
guides constructed of material equal to the shutters in strength and fire pursuant to Republic Act No. 184, otherwise known as the Electrical
resistance. Each shutter shall be equipped with a 74ºC (165ºF) fusible link, Engineering Law.
TITLE 10 - SPECIAL SUBJECTS SECTION 10.02.01: General
Chapter 10.01 - PHOTOGRAPHIC AND X-RAY FILMS
(a) Prefabricated assembly is a structural unit, the integral parts of which
SECTION 10.01.01: Storage and Handling have been built up or assembled prior to incorporation in the building.

(a) In the storage and handling of photographic and x-ray nitrocellulose film, (b) Special tests based on internationally recognized and accepted
automatic sprinklers shall be provided in the following case: engineering practices shall be required on assemblies to determine heir
(1) When unexposed and the films exceed the aggregate of 14.00 cubic structural appropriateness, durability, soundness, and weather and fire
meters (500 cubic feet), these should be in generally accepted safety resistance. Materials and their assembly shall comply with the latest
shipping containers for films; generally accepted engineering and architectural specifications and
standards.
(2) Where shelving used for storage of individual packages not in said safety
shipping containers and the films exceeds 1.40 cubic meters (50 cubic feet) in (c) Every device or system designed to connect prefabricated assemblies shall
capacity; or be capable of developing the strength of the different members as a
homogenous or monolithic structure, except in the case of members forming
(3) Storage not in generally accepted safety shipping containers in any fire part of a structural frame as specified in this Code. Anchorages and
section equipped with automatic sprinklers may be permitted up to 14.00 connections between members and the supporting elements of the structure
cubic meters (500 cubic feet). or walls shall be capable of withstanding all probable external and internal
(b) Film negatives in storage or in process of handling shall be kept in heavy forces or other conditions for a structurally sound construction. In structural
manila envelopes not exceeding 12 films to an envelope. Expanding design, proper allowances shall be made for any material to be displaced or
envelopes shall not be used. removed for the installations of pipes, conduits, or others.

(c) Film negatives shall be kept in properly insulated vented cabinets, vented (d) Placement of prefabricated assemblies shall be inspected to determined
storage vaults or outside storage houses. Not more than 113 kilograms (250 compliance with this Code.
pounds shall be stored in any single cabinet. Where the film stored exceeds
453.5 kilograms (1000 pounds), it shall be in vented storage vaults or in a Chapter 10.03 - PLASTICS
detached structure or roof vault. Door openings in vault shall be of four hour
fire-resistive construction and shall be kept close except when in use. SECTION 10.03.01: General

(d) Only incandescent electric lights shall be permitted, protected with (a) Approved Plastics. Approved plastic materials shall be those which have a
substantial wire guards or vapor proof globes, or both. Portable lights on flame-spread rating of 225 or less and a smoke density not greater than that
extension cords are prohibited. Smoking shall be prohibited and conspicuous obtained from the burning of untreated wood under similar conditions when
no smoking sign posted. tested in accordance with generally recognized and accepted engineering
practices for surface burning characteristics of building materials in the way
(e) No films shall be stored within 60 centimeters (2 feet) seam pipes, intended for use. The products of combustion shall be no more toxic than the
chimneys, or other sources of heat. chan robles virtual law library burning of untreated wood under similar conditions.

(f) First aid appliances of types using water or water solutions shall be SECTION 10.03.02: Installation
provided. Discarded films shall be stored and handled in the same manner as
other films until removed from the premises. (a) Structural Requirements. All plastic materials and their assemblies shall
be of adequate strength and durability to withstand the prescribed design
SECTION 10.01.02: Nitrocellulose Motion Picture Film loads. Sufficient and substantial technical data shall be submitted to establish
stresses, maximum unsupported spans, and such other information as may
(a) Nitrate motion picture film shall be stored or handled only in buildings of be deemed necessary for the various thickness and forms used.
fire-resistive construction. Every room where nitrate film is stored or handled
in quantities greater than 22.5 kilograms (50 pounds), except in motion (b) Fastenings. Fastenings shall be adequate to withstand design loads and
picture booths or rewinding rooms connected with such booths, shall be internal and external stresses required of the assembly, Proper allowances
equipped with automatic sprinklers. shall be made for expansion and contraction of plastic materials in
conjunction with other materials with which it assembled or integrated.
(b) Buildings used for, or housing, a nitrate picture film laboratory or studio
shall have automatic sprinklers. A minimum of one sprinkler for every 6.00 SECTION 10.03.03: Glazing of Openings
square meters (64 square feet) shall be provided.
(a) Doors, sash and framed openings in exterior walls of all building except
SECTION 10.01.03: Classes of Film Exempted Types IV and V construction may be glazed or equipped with approved
plastic: Provided, That:
(a) The provisions of this Section do not apply to: film for amateur (1) The wall in which such glazing is installed is so located that openings are
photographic use in original packages of "roll" and "film pack" films in not required to be fire-protected.
quantities of less than 1.40 cubic meters (50 cubic feet); safety film (cellulose
acetate base); dental x-ray film; establishments manufacturing photographic (2) Except for Type I buildings, the location, size, and spacing of such glazed
films and their storage incidental thereto; and films stored or being used in openings do not exceed the values set by generally recognized and accepted
standard motion picture booths. principles of engineering.

(b) Safety photographic X-ray films (cellulose acetate base) may be identified (3) Plastics used in glazed openings of Type II buildings shall be of materials
by the marking on the edge of the film. appropriate to use according to flame-spread characteristics and the
location, size and spacing of the openings do not exceed the values set forth
SECTION 10.01.04: Sprinklers by generally accepted principles of engineering.
SECTION 10.03.04: Skylights
(a) Unless otherwise provided in this Code, all sprinklers when so required
shall be of a type, specifications, and method of installations in accordance (a) General. Approved plastics may be used in skylights installed on roofs
with generally accepted practices. Types I, II, or III buildings and all buildings equipped with an approved
automatic fire-extinguishing system in Groups A, B, C, E, F, J, H-3, an H-4
Chapter 10.02 - PREFABRICATED CONSTRUCTION Occupancies: Except, That:
(1) Approved plastics may be used in any type of construction or occupancy SECTION 10.03.07: Partitions
as a fire venting system when approved by the Building Official.
(a) Where partitions are not required to be of fire-resistive or incombustible
(2) Plastics may be used in approved skylights in Type I one-hour construction, approved plastics conforming to the requirements specified in
constructions which are located 30 centimeters (12 inches) or more above this Code may be used.
the lower plane of the ceiling. The walls of the skylight well shall be no less
fire-resistive than the adjacent ceiling. SECTION 10.03.08: Exterior Veneer

(3) Where a fire-resistive ceiling is not required in one-story buildings, (a) General. Exterior veneer may be of approved plastic materials and shall
approved plastics may be used in skylights. conform to the provisions of this Section.
(b) Installation Requirements
(b) Height. Plastic veneer may be attached to exterior walls above the first
story of buildings located outside of highly restrictive Fire Zones: Provided,
(1) Except in Group A Occupancies, no skylight shall be installed within 3.00 further, That the height of veneer is not in excess of 10.50 meters (35 feet)
meters (10 feet) of a property line. above the adjacent grade elevation.

(2) The edges of dome-type skylights shall be properly flashed. (c) Area. Section of plastic veneer shall not exceed 15.00 square meters (150
square feet) in area: Except, That in less restrictive Fire Zones the area may
(3) Plastic skylights shall be separated from each other by at least 2.50 be increased by 50 per cent.
meters (feet, 4 inches) Laterally and 3.00 meters (10 feet) along the slope of
the roof. (d) Separation. Sections of plastic veneer shall be separated by a minimum of
1.20 meters (4 feet) vertically and 60 centimeters (2 feet) horizontally.

(c) Allowable Areas. The area of individual plastic skylights shall not exceed SECTION 10.03.09: Awnings and Canopies
10.00 square meters (107 square feet). The total aggregate area of plastics
used in skylights, monitors, and sawtooth glazing shall not exceed 20 per (a) Plastics of materials appropriate to use according to flame-spread
cent of the floor area of the room or occupancy sheltered. characteristics may be utilized in awnings and canopies, and all such awnings
and canopies shall be constructed in accordance with provisions governing
(d) Curb Requirements. Plastic skylights in roofs having a slope of less than 1 projections and appendages specified in this Code.
in 3 shall have a 10 centimeter (4-inch) high curb. The curb may be omitted
where a wire screen not smaller the No. 12 U.S. gauge with 25-millimeter (1- (b) Approved plastics may be used in awnings where untreated canvas is
inch) mesh is provided immediately below the skylight. The screen shall be permitted.
substantially mounted below the skylight.
(c) Approved plastics may be used in lieu of plain glass in greenhouse in less
SECTION 10.03.05: Light-Transmitting Panels in Monitors and Sawtooth Roofs restrictive Fire Zones.

(a) General. Where a fire-resistive rating is not required for the roof Chapter 10.04 - SHEET METAL SPRAY BOOTHS
structure, and in all buildings provided with an approved automatic fire-
extinguishing system, approved plastics may be used with or without sash as SECTION 10.04.01: General
the light-transmitting medium in monitors and sawtooth roofs: Except, That
plastics used in monitors or sawtooth roofs of Type II buildings shall be of (a) General. Paint spray booths shall be constructed of steel of not less than
materials appropriate to use according to flame-spread characteristics. No. 18 U.S. gauge in thickness and shall be designed in accordance with this
Code.
(b) Allowable Areas. The area of individual plastic glazing used in monitors
and sawtooth glazing shall not exceed 15.00 square meters (150 square feet). (b) Area. The area of a paint spray booth shall not exceed 150 square meters
The total aggregate area of plastics used in skylights, monitors, and sawtooth (1500 square feet) nor 10 per cent of the basic area permitted for the major
glazing shall not exceed 20 per cent of the floor area of the room or use of the building according to the occupancy group.
occupancy sheltered.
(c) Floor Construction. The floor shall be constructed of incombustible
(c) Area Separations. The areas of such plastic panels shall be separated from material.
each other by a section incombustible materials or by a section of the roofing
material of the structure not less than 1.50 meters (5 feet) in length. The (d) Interior Surface. Paint spray booths shall be designed to permit the free
lower edge of the plastic material shall be at least 15 centimeters (6 inches) passage of exhaust air from all parts of the interior and all interior surfaces
above the surface of the adjoining roof surface. shall be smooth and continuous without outstanding edges.

SECTION 10.03.06: Plastic Light Diffusers in Ceilings SECTION 10.04.02: Fire Protection

(a) General. Ceiling light diffusers having an area greater than 10 per cent of (a) Every spray booth having an open front elevation larger than 0.90 meter
any 10.00 square meters (100 square feet) of room area shall be approved (9 square feet) and which is not equipped with doors, shall have a fire curtain
plastics conforming to the requirements specified in this Code. or metal deflector not less than 10 centimeters (4 inches) deep installed that
upper outer edge of the booth opening.
(b) Installation. Plastic light diffusers shall be installed in such a manner that
they will not readily become detached when subjected to room temperature SECTION 10.04.03: Light
of 149ºC (300ºF) for 25 minutes, except, for plastic light diffusers which are
installed in the first floor areas of Group C Occupancies having egress directly (a) Paint spray booths shall illuminated through hammered wire or heat-
to the exterior of the building; and plastic light diffusers which are located treated glass panels. The glass panels shall be located in such a manner as to
between an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system and the areas to reduce the hazard of ignition caused by paint spray deposit.
be protected other than public corridors or Groups A, B, C, D, E, G, H, and I
Occupancies if tests in accordance with generally accepted and recognized SECTION 10.04.04: Ventilation
principles of engineering have established that such installations will not
interfere with the efficient operation of such automatic fire-extinguishing (a) General. Mechanical ventilation shall be provided direct to the exterior of
systems. the building. The mechanical exhaust system shall be designed to move the
air through any portion of the paint spray area at the rate of not less than
30.00 linear meters (100 linear feet) per minute. The blades of exhaust fan
shall be constructed of nonferous materials and shall be mounted in such a (2) Glass lights located not less than 45 centimeters (18 inches) above the
manner as to prevent contact with the exhaust duct. The motor shall not be adjacent finished floor or walking surface.
mounted in the spray booth or the duct system and belts shall be enclosed
where they enter the booth or duct system. (3) Glass lights when the least dimension is no greater than 45 centimeters
(18 inches).
(b) Exhaust Ducts. Exhaust ducts shall be constructed of steel having a
thickness not less than the values set by generally recognized and accepted (4) Glass lights 0.55 square meter (16 square feet) or less in area.
principles of engineering. The discharge paint for ducts in a paint spray booth Chapter 10.06 - SIGNS
shall be not less than 1.80 meters (6 feet) from adjoining combustible
construction nor less than 7.50 meters (25 feet) from adjoining exterior wall SECTION 10.06.01: General
openings: Except, That the discharge point for exhaust ducts is not regulated
in a water-wash spray booth. (a) No signs or signboards shall be erected in such a manner as to confuse or
obstruct the view or interpretation of any official traffic sign signal or device.
Chapter 10.05 - GLASS AND GLAZING
(b) No signboards shall be constructed as to unduly obstruct the natural view
SECTION 10.05.01: General of the landscape, distract or obstruct the view of the public as to constitute a
traffic hazard, or otherwise defile, debase, or offend the aesthetic and
(a) This Chapter shall apply to exterior glass and glazing in all occupancies cultural values and traditions of the Filipino people.
except Groups A, B, and J Occupancies not over three stories in height, and
to interior and exterior glass and glazing in all occupancies subject to human SECTION 10.06.02: Maintenance
impact as specified in this Chapter.
(a) All signs, together with all of their supports, braces, guys and anchors,
(b) Standards for materials shall conform to this Chapter and to generally shall be kept in repair and in proper state of preservation. The display
recognized and accepted principles of engineering on glass dimensional surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at all times.
tolerance, breaking stress levels, and design (safety) factors.
SECTION 10.06.03: Design and Construction
(c) Each light shall bear the manufacturer's label designating the type and
thickness of glass. Each light with special performance characteristics such as (a) General. Signs and signs structures shall be designed and constructed to
laminated, heat-strengthened, fully tempered or insulated shall bear the resist all wind and seismic forces. All bracing systems shall be designed and
manufacturer's identification showing the special characteristic and thickness constructed to transfer lateral forces to the foundations. For signs on
by etching or other permanent identification that shall be visible after the buildings the dead and lateral loads shall be transmitted through the
glass is glazed. structural frame of the building to the ground in such manner as not to
overstress any of the elements thereof. The overturning moment produced
SECTION 10.05.02: Area Limitation from lateral forces shall, in no case, exceed two-thirds of the dead-load
resisting moment. Uplift due to overturning shall be adequately resisted by
(a) Exterior glass and glazing shall be capable of safety withstanding the loads proper anchorage to the ground or to the structural frame of the building.
set forth by generally recognized and accepted principles of engineering on The weight of earth superimposed over footings may be used in determining
wind pressures for various height zones above ground acting inward or the dead-load resisting moment. Such earth shall be carefully placed and
outward. The area of individual lights shall not be more than those set by thoroughly compacted.
generally recognized and acceptable principles of engineering on the
maximum allowable area of glass according to the wind load multiplied by SECTION 10.06.04: Support
the appropriate adjustment factor.
(a) General. The supports for all signs or signs structures shall be placed in or
SECTION 10.05.03: Glazing upon private property and shall be securely built, constructed, and erected in
conformity with the requirements of this Code.
(a) Glass firmly supported on all four edges shall be glazed with a minimum
laps and edge clearances in accordance with generally accepted and (b) Materials. Materials of construction for signs and sign structures shall be
recognized principles of engineering for minimum glazing requirements: of the quality and grade as specified in this Code.
Provided, That glass edge clearance in fixed openings shall be not less than
what is required for wind and earthquake drift. For glass not firmly (c) Restrictions and Combustible Materials. All signs and sign structures
supported on all four edges, design shall be submitted for approval. Glass erected in highly restrictive Fire Zones shall have structural members of
supports shall be considered firm when deflection of the support at design incombustible materials. Ground signs may be constructed of any material
load does not exceed 1/175th of the span. meeting the requirements of this Code. Combination signs, roof signs, walls
signs, projecting signs, and signs on marquees shall be constructed of
SECTION 10.05.04: Windows Louvered incombustible materials. No combustible materials other than approved
plastics shall be used in the construction of electric signs.
(a) Regular plate, sheet, or patterned glass in jalousies and louvered windows
shall not be thinner than nominal 5.6 millimeters (7/32 inch) and no longer (d) Nonstructural Trim. Nonstructural trim and portable display surface may
than 1.20 meters (4 feet) Exposed glass edged shall be smooth. chan robles be of wood, metal, approved plastics, or any combination thereof.
virtual law library
(e) Anchorage. Member supporting unbraced signs shall be so proportioned
SECTION 10.05.05: Impact that the bearing loads imposed on the soil in either direction, horizontal or
vertical, shall not exceed the safe values. Braced ground signs shall be
(a) Frameless glass, doors, glass in doors, fixed glass panels, and similar anchored to resist the specified wind or seismic load in any direction.
glazed openings which may be subject to accidental human impact shall Anchors and supports shall be designed for safe bearing loads on the soil and
conform with generally recognized and accepted principles of engineering on for an effective resistance to pull-out amounting to a force twenty five
impact loads of glass: Except, in the following cases: percent (25) greater than the required resistance to overturning. Anchors
(1) Bath tub and shower enclosures shall be constructed from approved and supports shall penetrate to a sufficient depth below ground. Portable
shatter-resistant materials, such as: wire reinforced glass not less than 5-6- ground signs supported by frames or posts rigidly attached to the base shall
millimeter (7/32-inch) thickness; fully tempered glass not less than 4.8- be so proportioned that the weight and size of the base will be adequate to
millimeter (3/16-inch) thickness; or laminated safety glass of not less than resist the wind pressure. Signs attached to masonry, concrete, or steel shall
6.4-millimeter (1/4-inch) thickness. be safely and securely fastened thereto by means of metal anchors, bolts, or
approved expansion screws of sufficient size and anchorage to support safely
the loads applied. No wooden blocks or plugs or anchors with wood used in
connection with screws or nails shall be considered proper anchorage, except
in the case of signs attached to wood framing. No anchor or support of any
sign shall be connected to, or supported by, an unbraced parapet wall, unless
such wall is designed in accordance with the requirements for parapet walls.

(f) Display Surfaces. Display surfaces in all types of signs may be made of
metal, glass, or approved plastics.

SECTION 10.06.05: Projection and Clearance

(a) Clearance from High Voltage Power Lines. Signs shall be located not less
than 1.80 meters (6 feet) horizontally or 3.60 meters (12 feet) vertically from
overhead electrical conductors which are energized in excess of 750 volts.
The term "overhead conductor" as used in this Section means any electrical
conductor, either bare or insulated, installed above the ground except such
conductors as are enclosed in an iron pipes or other material covering of
equal strength.

(b) Clearance from Fire Escapes, Exits, or Standpipes. No sign or signs

structure shall be erected in such a manner that any portion of its surface or
supports will interfere in any way with the free use of any fire escape, exit, or
standpipe.

(c) Obstruction of Openings. No sign shall obstruct any opening to such an

extent that light or ventilation is reduced to a point below that required by
this Code. Signs erected within 1.50 meters (5 feet) of an exterior wall in
which there are openings within the area of the sign shall be constructed of
incombustible material or approved plastics. chan robles virtual law library

(d) Projection Over Alleys. No sign or sign structures shall project into any
public alley below a height of 4.25 meters (14 feet) above grade nor project
more than 30 centimeters (12 inches) where the sign structure is located
4.25 meters (14 feet) to 4.85 meters (16 feet) above grade. The sign or sign
structure may project not more than 0.90 meter (3 feet) into the public alley
where the sign or sign structure is located more than 4.85 meters (16 feet)
above graded.

Enacted without executive approval: August 26, 1972.