BCAB #1594 - Occupancy Classification/Spatial Separation for Detached Garage Serving One Dwelling Unit, Article 9.10.14.14.

November 19, 2003

BCAB #1594

Re: Occupancy Classification/Spatial Separation for Detached Garage Serving One Dwelling Unit, Article 9.10.14.14.

Project Description

The proposed building is a detached garage approximately 65 square meters in building area. The garage is intended to incorporate a bay vehicle lift.

Reason for Appeal

Article 9.10.14.14. permits detached garages serving one dwelling unit, with specific conditions, to have reduced limiting distances and exposing building face construction requirements.

Appellant’s Position

The appellant contends the garage should not be classified as a Group F, Division 2 repair garage. This would invoke spatial separation requirements as determined by Sentence 9.10.14.1.(1). Rather, the appellant considers Article 9.10.14.14. “Detached Garage Serving One Dwelling Unit”, the appropriate Code requirements to establish the  limiting distance for the garage. The appellant has submitted an affidavit indicating the intended use of the garage is for storage of vehicles and farm equipment, and serves only one dwelling unit.

Building Official's Position

The Building Official contends the building should be considered a repair garage and classified as an Industrial Occupancy, Division 2. The definition of repair garage includes the statement “… where facilities are provided for the repair or servicing of motor vehicles.” The Building Official considers the vehicle lift a facility for repairing motor vehicles and that Article 9.10.14.14. is not applicable to a F2 repair garage.

Appeal Board Decision #1592

It is the determination of the Board that Article 9.10.14.14. is applicable to the garage.

George Humphrey, Chair