BCAB #1603 - Building Area, Article 1.1.3.2. Defined Terms

June 23, 2004

BCAB #1603

Re: Building Area,  Article 1.1.3.2. Defined Terms

Project Description

The subject is a four storey multiple suite residential building. A covered, open to the exterior balcony, about 1.5 m by 3.0 m, with a solid 1070 mm high guard, is attached to each suite on the storeys above grade. There is a sliding glass door separating the balcony from the suite.

Reason for Appeal

Within Article 1.1.3.2., the term building area is defined as the greatest horizontal area of a building above grade within the outside surface of exterior walls or within the outside surface of exterior walls and the center line of a firewalls.

Appellant’s Position

The appellant contends that the building area does not include exterior balconies as they are not within the outside surface of exterior walls.

Building Official's Position

The Building Official official considers the term building area to include the entire building, and in the subject building of appeal, would include the area of the exterior balconies.

Appeal Board Decision #1603

It is the determination of the Board that the area of these balconies is not considered part of the building area as defined by the Building Code.

George Humphrey, Chair