13-200-160 Requirements for change to residential occupancy.

   When the occupancy of an existing building is changed from any occupancy classification to residential, the following requirements shall be met:

   (a)   The existing stairways and elevators may remain but shall be enclosed, in accordance with the requirements of Sections 15-8-140 and 15-8-150. Stairs, passenger elevators, and escalators may be all placed in the same enclosure.

   (b)   Boiler rooms and heating plants shall be enclosed, in accordance with Section 15-8-190.

   (c)   Exit signs and lights shall be provided, in accordance with Section 13-160-700.

   (d)   Means of egress lighting shall be provided, in accordance with Section 13-160-660.

   (e)   Fire alarm and extinguishing systems shall be provided, in accordance with Chapter 15-16.

   (f)   Height and area limitations shall be in accordance with Chapter 13-48 for all additions. If the existing building already exceeds the height or area limitations for the new use, it may be changed to residential occupancy but it shall not be increased in height or area. If the height of the existing building exceeds 80 feet, the existing building shall comply with the High-Rise Code, Chapter 13-76.

   (g)   Pipe shafts and ducts shall be enclosed, in accordance with Section 15-8-160.

   (h)   All residential buildings shall be provided with smoke alarms, as required for new construction in Chapter 13-64.

   (i)   All residential buildings over four stories in height shall be provided with self-closing devices on doors opening upon public corridors or stairs.

(Prior code § 78.1-16; Amend Coun. J. 6-14-95, p. 2841; Amend Coun. J. 9-6-17, p. 55278, Art. VI, § 32)