Maximum height for interior balcony & guardrails
specialmom
| Posted in Code Questions on
I have an autistic son who attempted to jump from the second floor. I would like to know the “maximum” height requirement for balcony and stairs.
Attached is my current balcony.
Replies
There is no maximum height. You can make them as high as you want to. I believe current codes call for a 42" minimum.
The issue with your balcony is the "ladder" style which allows someone to climb over the top. Most cities do not allow this style.
It’s not a ladder if you turn the picture.
While the picture is rotated as noted above and does not actually have horizontal infill, even the current ICC version (IRC 2015+) no longer eliminates horizontal infill. But that has to be checked with every code release, just like the maximum shed sf. And yes, some local jurisdictions amend their version of the code. Research!
You could run the barrier to the ceiling if you want. Might not be a bad idea. Additionally, as long as there is 1 1/2" clearance for the handrail, the barrier along the stairs could also be extended to the ceiling. Keep him from creating a second choice spot for jumping.
There is no maximum height. The IRC, which is the model code used by most jurisdictions in the US, specifies a minimum height of 36 in. Horizontal infill as in your case is permitted by the IRC. Individual jurisdictions can amend the code as they see fit. Where I live in CT, that's done at the state level. Other places work at county or municipal levels.