BCAB #1056 - Exits from Mezzanines in Dwelling Units, Subsection 9.9.9.

April 10, 1989

BCAB #1056

Re: Exits from Mezzanines in Dwelling Units, Subsection 9.9.9.

With reference to your letter of March 15, 1989 regarding egress from dwelling units. The units in question are condominiums, containing one dwelling unit above another.

A mezzanine in a dwelling unit is undoubtedly a storey, by definition, although under the provisions of Subsection 9.10.4. it may gain exemption from consideration as a storey for the purposes of calculating building height. Under the circumstances, we consider that Subsection 9.9.9. does apply to the mezzanines within a dwelling unit, even where these do not affect building height. Your design therefore contravenes the Code. With respect to your proposed variation enclosing stairs, we suggest that this first be discussed with the authority having jurisdiction, there is no indication as yet that you are in dispute on the question.

J.C. Currie, Chair