Brooklyn since 2014All five boroughsSame-day response during business hours

What is NYC BC § 1011.3?

Quick Answer

This section establishes the minimum headroom clearance requirements for stairways, specifying a height of 84 inches, with certain exceptions for Group R-2, R-3, and spiral stairways. The statute ensures safety standards in building design and applies to building owners and property operators responsible for stairway construction and maintenance.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

Michael Nacmias - Founding PartnerMichael Sargo - Partner
From the team atNacmias Law Firm, PLLCBrooklyn-based attorneys representingproperty owners across all five boroughsMeet the team →

1011.3 Headroom.

BC § 1011.3

Stairways shall have a headroom clearance of not less than 84 inches (2133.6 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the edge of the nosings. Such headroom shall be continuous above the stairway to the point where the line intersects the landing below, one tread depth beyond the bottom riser. The minimum clearance shall be maintained the full width of the stairway and landing. Projections into the required width shall not be limited above the minimum headroom height. Exceptions: 1. In Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies stairways shall have a headroom clearance of not less than 80 inches (2032 mm).

2.Spiral stairways complying with Section 1011.10 are permitted a 78-inch (1981.2 mm) headroom clearance.

3.In Group R-3 occupancies; within dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies; and in Group U occupancies that are accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy or accessory to individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies; where the nosings of treads at the side of a flight extend under the edge of a floor opening through which the stair passes, the floor opening shall be allowed to project horizontally into the required headroom not more than 4 3/4 inches (120.7 mm).

Common Questions

Our team

Meet the people you will work with

Free case review

Have a matter that touches § 1011.3?

Free 15-minute case review with the attorney handling your matter. Same-day response during business hours across all five boroughs — OATH hearings, Housing Court, and real estate closings.

Or email us

[email protected]

An attorney reads every message.

  • Same-day response

    During business hours

  • Direct attorney access

    Same lawyer from intake to close

  • Flat-fee pricing

    On most OATH and closing matters