What is the term for a change in the purpose or level of activity within a structure that involves a change in application of the requirements of the Code?

• A. Change of Use
• B. Change of Occupancy Classification
• C. Re-zoning
• D. Additions to life safety features

Answer: (A)

When a space inside a building is used for something different, the life safety requirements that apply can change. This is described as a Change of Use. Changing the use can affect occupant load, means of egress, fire protection features (like sprinklers or detection), fire barriers, and other code provisions, so the space must be reevaluated to meet the requirements for the new use. For example, turning a storage area into a classroom increases the number of occupants and may require different exit capacities and fire protection.

Change of Occupancy Classification would involve formally redefining the occupancy category itself, which is a more specific reclassification rather than simply changing the use within the building. Re-zoning is a municipal zoning issue, and adding life safety features is a modification, not a change in use.