R305.2.2 Minimum Stairway Headroom, Existing Buildings

Alterations to existing basement stairways shall have a minimum headroom in all parts of the stairway not less than 6 feet 4 inches (1931 mm) measured vertically from the sloped line adjoining the tread nosing or from the floor surface of the landing or platform on that portion of the stairway.

Exception: 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 a maximum of 4³/₄ inches (121 mm).