Code Question

Code Question: Expert Staff Opinions

International Building Code
Chapter 4—Special Detailed Requirements Based on
Use and Occupancy

SECTION 402.10, ITEM 4
IBC Interpretation No. 11-07
2006 Edition
Issued: 09-04-2007
BU_06_11_07

402.10 Kiosks. Kiosks and similar structures (temporary or permanent) shall meet the following requirements:

1. Combustible kiosks or other structures shall not be located within the mall unless constructed of any of the following materials:

          1.1. Fire-retardant-treated wood complying with Section 2303.2.
          1.2. Foam plastics having a maximum heat release rate not greater than 100kW (105 Btu/h) when tested in accordance with the exhibit booth protocol in UL 1975.
          1.3. Aluminum composite material (ACM) having a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 when tested as an assembly in the maximum thickness intended for use in accordance with ASTM E 84.

2. Kiosks or similar structures located within the mall shall be provided with approved fire suppression and detection devices.

3. The minimum horizontal separation between kiosks or groupings thereof and other structures within the mall shall be 20 feet (6096 mm).

4. Each kiosk or similar structure or groupings thereof shall have a maximum area of 300 square feet (28 m2).

Q: Is the maximum area of 300 square feet for a grouping of kiosks, as indicated in Item 4 of Section 402.10 of the International Building Code, calculated using the aggregate gross area of the individual kiosks within the grouping plus the area of the open space between the individual kiosks within the grouping?

A: No. The maximum area for a grouping of kiosks within the mall is the gross aggregate area of all individual kiosks within the grouping that does not comply with the 20-foot separation requirement in Item 3 of Section 402.10. The open areas adjacent to and between individual kiosks are not considered part of the maximum allowable area of a kiosk or a grouping of kiosks.