R311.7.1 Stairways; General

All stairways serving a dwelling or accessory structure, or any part thereof, shall comply with this section. This shall include exterior stairs from a dwelling or garage to grade and those stairs serving decks, porches, balconies, sun rooms, and similar structures.

Stairways shall not be less than 36 inches (914 mm) in clear width at all points above the permitted hand-rail height and below the required headroom height. Handrails shall not project more than 4.5 inches (114 mm) on either side of the stairway and the minimum clear width of the stairway at and below the handrail height, including treads and landings, shall not be less than 31¹/₂ inches (787 mm) where a handrail is installed on one side and 27 inches (698 mm) where handrails are provided on both sides.