406.2 Definitions.

Editor's note: this section has been amended by L.L. 2024/055, 4/6/2024, eff. 12/21/2025. For related unconsolidated provisions, see Appendix A at L.L. 2024/055.

The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:

   CARPORT.

   MECHANICAL-ACCESS OPEN PARKING GARAGE.

   OPEN PARKING GARAGE.

   PRIVATE GARAGE.

   RAMP-ACCESS OPEN PARKING GARAGE.

406.3 Private garages and carports.

Private garages and carports shall comply with Sections 406.3.1 through 406.3.5.

406.3.1 Classification.

Private garages and carports shall be classified as Group U occupancy.

406.3.2 Clear height.

In private garages and carports, the clear height in vehicle and pedestrian traffic areas shall be not less than 7 feet (2134 mm). Vehicle and pedestrian areas accommodating van-accessible parking shall comply with Section 1106.5.

406.3.3 Floor construction.

Private garage and carport floors shall be of concrete or equivalent noncombustible material that will not absorb flammable liquids. The area of floor used for parking of vehicles shall be sloped to facilitate the movement of liquids to a drain. The sills of all door openings connecting a dwelling unit to a private garage shall be raised at least 4 inches (102 mm) above the floor level of the garage.

   Exception: Asphalt surfaces shall be permitted at ground level in carports.

406.3.3.1 Ramps.

Ramps shall have a gradient not exceeding one in seven, with nonslip surfaces, and shall be located entirely within the property line. However, upon application to the commissioner, steeper gradients may be accepted, but in no event greater than one in three.

406.3.4 Separation.

Separations shall comply with the following:

   1.   The private garage shall be separated from the dwelling unit and its attic area by means of a minimum 1-hour fire-rated construction. Garages beneath habitable rooms shall be separated from all habitable rooms above by not less than 1-hour fire-rated construction. Openings from a private garage directly into a room used for sleeping purposes shall not be permitted.

   2.   No air used for heating, cooling, or ventilation shall be circulated through private garages to dwelling areas.

   3.   A separation is not required between a Group R-3 occupancy and a carport, provided the carport does not have any enclosed areas above.

   4.   For free standing private garages where the fire separation distance from the nearest exterior wall is less than 5 feet, such exterior walls shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than one hour.

406.3.5 Automatic garage door openers.

Automatic garage door openers, if provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.