Commercial Building Inspector B2General Administration, Permits, and PlansHard
A commercial building inspector is reviewing the plans for a new 8-story hotel (Group R-1) in a jurisdiction that has adopted the 2021 IBC. The building is designed as Type I-A construction and is fully sprinklered. The plans include a proposed 12-foot wide public sidewalk adjacent to the building. The owner proposes to install a fixed awning that extends 8 feet over this public sidewalk. What is the maximum projection allowed for this awning into the public right-of-way, according to IBC Section 3202.1.1?
- A5 feet
- B7 feet
- C6 feet
- D4 feet
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 7 feet
According to IBC Section 3202.1.1, awnings are allowed to project not more than two-thirds of the width of the public way, or 7 feet (2134 mm), whichever is less. In this case, two-thirds of the 12-foot sidewalk is 8 feet. However, the maximum projection is capped at 7 feet, so the 7-foot limit applies.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 5 feet is not the specific maximum for awnings under IBC 3202.1.1.
- C. 6 feet is not the specific maximum for awnings under IBC 3202.1.1.
- D. 4 feet is a common limit for projections into alleys, not general public ways.
Awning Projection into Public Way
Fixed or movable awnings are permitted to project into the public right-of-way, provided they comply with specific limitations on projection distance and clearance above the sidewalk, as outlined in IBC Section 3202.1.1.
- Maximum projection is the lesser of two-thirds of the public way width or 7 feet.
- Minimum clear height above the sidewalk is 8 feet.
- Must not obstruct egress or vehicular traffic.
Memory trick: When 'Awnings' 'Hang Out', remember the 'Two-Thirds Rule' or 'Seven' feet, whichever is 'Smaller'.