Model Code Requirement

  • International Fire Code (IFC) Section 503.2.1: fire apparatus access roads must have an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 ft 6 in.[3][5][6][1]
  • NFPA guidance for fire department access roads mirrors this, calling for at least 13.5 ft of unobstructed vertical clearance.[2][8]

What “vertical clearance” covers

  • Clearance applies to anything overhanging the access road: building projections, balconies, arches, trees, decorative lighting, signs, wires, and similar features.[4][6]
  • The clearance must be maintained for the full required width of the road and along its length so large engines and aerials can pass and operate without striking overhead obstructions.[6][4]

Local amendments and authority

  • Some jurisdictions (example: certain cities adopting amended IFC) increase minimum vertical clearance to 14 ft and/or increase width requirements, especially where larger apparatus are used.[9][10]
  • The fire code official is typically authorized to require greater vertical clearance where the standard minimum is inadequate for safe fire or rescue operations.[10][9]

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  1. https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IFC2024V2.0/chapter-5-fire-service-features
  2. https://www.firefighternation.com/firefighting/fire-department-access-requirements/
  3. https://www.newbraunfels.gov/DocumentCenter/View/955/Fire-Lanes
  4. https://coderedconsultants.com/insights/fire-department-access-part-1-roadway-dimensions/
  5. https://kootenaifire.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Access-Requirements.pdf
  6. https://www.brightonny.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4557
  7. https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/NorthBend/html/NorthBend15/NorthBend1518.html
  8. https://www.nfpa.org/news-blogs-and-articles/blogs/2021/01/08/fire-apparatus-access-roads
  9. https://www.lakeworthtx.org/fire-department/files/adopted-fire-code-2018
  10. https://content.civicplus.com/api/assets/6778e46c-a530-4085-94f4-48479ef5a82e?cache=1800
  11. https://evstudio.com/fire-lane-requirements-for-buildings/
  12. https://www.cityofmobile.org/fire/docs/access-road-requirements-new.pdf
  13. http://www.slcdocs.com/building/Res Fire List.pdf
  14. https://braintreema.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4752/Fire-Dept-Access-Memo-2019-10-15holland
  15. https://www.tupeloms.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/19.-Fire_Compliance_Guide_IBC2018.pdf