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Re: basement/1st floor definition

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Building Codes and Zoning
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43
Date: 26 Jan 2002
Time: 11:56 AM

Comments

The Uniform Building Code defines a basement as "any floor level below the first story in a building, except that a floor level in a building having only one floor level shall be classified as a basement unless such floor level qualifies as a first story as defined herein."

It turns out that the real definition of a basement depends on local zoning laws. For example, some communities in the San Francisco Bay Area have recently revised the definition of a basement stating that a basement must be fully surround on all 4 sides and be totally below grade level, otherwise it counts as a first floor. Other zoning laws state that a basement must be surrounded on at least 3 sides...and be 50% or more below grade.

The only way to know for sure what the definition is of a basement and first story is to contact your city our county zoning office for a definition specific to your location.

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