Florida Building Code for Risers

Types

• Risers that are part of a staircase in a non-residential building have a different set of requirements than those that are in a residential building. Spiral staircases, aisle stairs, replacement stairs and those in certain occupancy groups have their own section in the code.

General Information

• The Florida Building Code outlines the minimum and maximum height requirements of each riser. The height difference between the tallest riser and the shortest riser in any run of stairs is also defined in the code. A standard staircase in a residential building has a maximum riser height of 7-3/4". The difference between the height of any two risers in the same run of stairs cannot be more than 3/8". In non-residential buildings, the stair riser has a maximum height requirement of 7" and a minimum of 4".

Code Sections

• The builder or architect will need to review the code in its entirety to determine the stair specifications he must follow to meet code. Specifications pertaining to standard stairway risers used in non-residential buildings can be found in the Florida Building Code section 1009.3. Spiral staircase riser requirements can be found in section 1009.8. Residential stairway riser requirements can be found in the Florida Residential Code section R311.5.3.1.