Authority: IC 22-13-4-5

Affected: IC 22-12; IC 22-13; IC 22-14; IC 22-15

Sec. 2. (a) This rule applies to existing buildings, when specifically requested by the building owner or his or her agent, at the time of an application for a design release under 675 IAC 12-6. Upon receipt of a request, the division shall have the plans, if any, and an inspection report for conversion reviewed for conformance with the requirements of this rule. If conformance is achieved, a design release for the conversion shall be issued. Full compliance with all applicable rules of the commission shall be required for all construction work done to accomplish the conversion.

(b) An application and supporting documents for a design release under this rule must demonstrate all of the following:

1. (1) The total building floor area, excluding basements, does not exceed three thousand (3,000) square feet.
2. (2) The building does not exceed three (3) stories in height, excluding basements.
3. (3) Basements and third floor areas shall not be used by the public.
4. (4) The building occupant load shall not exceed the number permitted for new construction in the planned use group classification.
5. (5) The minimum width of stairways to be used by the public shall be thirty-six (36) inches.

6. (6) The restrictions in this rule:

   1. (A) are acceptable; and
   2. (B) shall be conditions of a design release or other order of the division.

7. (7) The new use group must meet the same requirements for:

   1. (A) exit width;
   2. (B) arrangement of exits;
   3. (C) illumination of exits;
   4. (D) exit signs; and
   5. (E) smoke detection;
8. as required for new construction.
9. (8) Buildings converted to occupancy Group R-1 or R-2 shall be in full compliance with the plumbing, mechanical, and electrical provisions of the commission's rules for the new use or occupancy.

(Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission; 675 IAC 12-13-2; filed Jul 23, 1992, 1:00 p.m.: 15 IR 2586, eff Jun 1, 1992 [ IC 4-22-2-36 suspends the effectiveness of a rule document for thirty (30) days after filing with the Secretary of State. LSA Document #92-11 was filed Jul 23, 1992.]; filed Jan 30, 1998, 4:00 p.m.: 21 IR 2114; readopted filed Sep 11, 2001, 2:49 p.m.: 25 IR 530; filed Aug 30, 2006, 2:25 p.m.: 20060927-IR-675050108FRA; readopted filed Aug 8, 2012, 8:08 a.m.: 20120905-IR-675120260RFA; readopted filed Jul 3, 2018, 2:22 p.m.: 20180801-IR-675180204RFA; readopted filed Jun 10, 2024, 8:09 a.m.: 20240710-IR- 675230794RFA)