BCAB #1537 - Occupancy Classification of Buildings, Article 3.1.2.1

June 18, 2001

BCAB #1537

Re: Occupancy Classification of Buildings, Article 3.1.2.1

Project Description

The subject is a 2 storey suite located in a multi tenant warehouse building, separated from the adjacent suites by a fire separation with a 2 hour fire resistance rating. The intended used of the suite is a music and dance instructional school. Within the school there are several music studios used for individual instruction, and one dance studio with a programmed occupant load of 10 persons. It is intended the total occupant load for the suite will be 43, which includes approximately 13 staff.

Reason for Appeal

Every Building or part thereof shall be classified according to its major occupancy. Sentence 3.1.2.1.(2) states that a building intended for use by more than one occupancy shall be classified according to all major occupancies for which it is intended to be used.

Appellant's Position

The appellant contends the music and dance training facility should be classified as a Group D, Business and Personal Services occupancy.

Building Official's Position

The Building Official considers Group A to be the appropriate classification for the music and dance instructional school.

Appeal Board Decision #1537

It is the determination of the Board the facility in question is best classified as a Group D , Business and Personal Service occupancy. The Board considers the low number of students in keeping with personal services as described in the definition of Business and Personal services occupancy.

George Humphrey, Chair