SECTION 704 EXTERIOR WALLS

 

704.8 Allowable area of openings. The maximum area of unprotected or protected openings permitted in an exterior wall in any story shall not exceed the values set forth in Table 704.8. Where both unprotected and protected openings are located in the exterior wall in any story, the total area of the openings shall comply with the following formula:

          (Equation  7-2)

 

where:


A = Actual area of protected openings, or the equivalent area of protected openings, Ae (see Section 704.7).


a = Allowable area of protected openings.


Au = Actual area of unprotected openings.


au = Allowable area of unprotected openings.

704.8.1 Automatic sprinkler system. In buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the maximum allowable area of unprotected openings in occupancies other than Groups H -1, H - 2 and H - 3 shall be the same as the tabulated limitations for protected openings.

704.8.2 First story. In occupancies other than Group H, unlimited unprotected openings are permitted in the exterior walls of the first story above grade facing a street that have a fire separation distance of greater than 15 feet (4572 mm) or facing an unoccupied space. The unoccupied space shall be on the same lot or dedicated for public use, shall not be less than 30 feet (9144 mm) in width and shall have access from a street by a posted fire lane in accordance with the International Fire Code.

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