Page 30 - Lesson 1 Use, Occupancy, and Construction_v4.0

Lesson 01

Use, Occupancy, and Construction

Note: Using an automatic sprinkler system to increase building height is not
permitted under certain circumstances, as identified under “Exceptions” in Section
504.2.

(2014 Florida Building Code, Section 504.2, 506.2)

Mezzanines

A mezzanine (or multiple mezzanines) designed in accordance with Section 505 of
the 2014 Florida Building Code are considered to be a portion of the story directly
below it. Mezzanines do not contribute to the total stories or the building area.

(2014 Florida Building Code, Section 505)

Mixed Use and Occupancy

Each building portion must be classified individually according to Section 302.1 of
the code. However, if a building has more than one use or occupancy group, such
as those with incidental or with several separated occupancies, it is subject to the
regulations in Section 509 of the code, according to its specific designation.

(2014 Florida Building Code, Section 509)

Lesson 1 Summary

The Florida Building Code designates occupancies, uses, and types of construction
for structures. The maximum allowable height and area for a building is
determined somewhat by using these classifications.

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