scope:

The following is a suggested procedure for determining the Code requirements for a building or structure:

(1) Determine the occupancy classification by referring to the occupancy definitions in Chapter 6 and the occupancy Chapter 12 through Chapter 42 (see 6.1.14 for buildings with more than one use).

(2) Determine if the building or structure is new or existing (see the definitions in Chapter 3).

(3) Determine the occupant load (see 7.3.1).

(4) Determine the hazard of contents (see Section 6.2).

(5) Refer to the applicable occupancy chapter of the Code (Chapter 12 through Chapter 42) [see Chapter 1 through Chapter 4 and Chapter 6 through Chapter 11, as needed, for general information (such as definitions) or as directed by the occupancy chapter].

(6) Determine the occupancy subclassification or special use condition, if any, by referring to Chapter 18 and Chapter 19, health care occupancies; Chapter 22 and Chapter 23, detention and correctional occupancies; Chapter 28 and Chapter 29, hotels and dormitories; Chapter 32 and Chapter 33, residential board and care occupancies; and Chapter 36 and Chapter 37, mercantile occupancies, which contain subclassifications or special use definitions.

(7) Proceed through the applicable occupancy chapter to verify compliance with each referenced section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, and referenced codes, standards, and other documents.

(8) Where two or more requirements apply, the occupancy chapter generally takes precedence over the base Chapter 1 through Chapter 4 and Chapter 6 through Chapter 11.

(9) Where two or more occupancy chapters apply, such as in a mixed occupancy (see 6.1.14), the most restrictive requirements apply.