CSLB General Building (B)Framing and CarpentryHard
A building inspector measures a stairway's handrail height at 30 inches, measured vertically from the nosing of the treads. The contractor is told to raise the handrail. What is the acceptable handrail height range required by code for this measurement?
- A38 to 42 inches
- B30 to 34 inches
- C34 to 38 inches
- D28 to 32 inches
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 34 to 38 inches
Residential stair handrail height must be between 34 and 38 inches, measured vertically from the nosing of the treads (or from the walking surface of the ramp/landing). A measured height of 30 inches falls below this range, requiring the contractor to raise the handrail to comply.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This range applies to guardrails on landings, not stair handrails.
- B. Still below the minimum required range of 34 inches.
- D. Below the minimum required handrail height range.
Stair Handrail Height
The vertical distance from the tread nosing to the top of the graspable handrail, required by code to fall between 34 and 38 inches.
- Measured vertically from the nosing of the treads
- Range: 34 to 38 inches for residential stairs
- Distinct from the 42-inch guardrail height on landings
Memory trick: 'Reach for 34 to 38 as you climb the stairs.'