Agenda Date: 6/2/2026
Subject:
Title
Ordinance 16-2026: An ordinance on first reading amending Title 4, Building Regulations, Chapter 1 Building Codes, by adding Section (B)(33) Single Exit for Group R-2 Buildings
Body
From:
James L. Becklenberg, City Manager
Prepared by:
Reid Betzing, City Attorney
Tim Steinwinder, Chief Building Official
Presentations:
N/A
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this agenda item is to consider adoption of an ordinance amending the City's building code to comply with Colorado House Bill 25-1273, "Residential Building Stair Modernization," which requires qualifying municipalities to permit certain multifamily residential buildings up to five stories in height to be served by a single exit stairway, subject to specified life-safety and design standards.
LONG-TERM OUTCOME(S) SERVED:
High-Quality Governance
DISCUSSION:
During the 2025 legislative session, the Colorado General Assembly adopted House Bill 25-1273, which became law on May 13, 2025. The legislation requires municipalities with populations exceeding 100,000 residents and served by accredited fire protection agencies to amend their building codes no later than December 1, 2027, to allow qualifying multifamily residential buildings with a single exit stairway.
Although the City of Littleton does not have the population to reach the mandate, the City has evaluated the legislation as a potential tool to support housing diversity, affordability, and infill redevelopment goals identified in adopted City planning documents.
Traditional U.S. building codes generally require multifamily buildings above three stories to provide two exit stairways. HB25-1273 permits up to five stories with a single stairway where enhanced fire protection measures are provided, including sprinkler systems, smoke control measures, fire-resistance standards, and limitations on the number of dwelling units per floor.
Single-stair building forms are commonly used internationally and in select U.S. jurisdi...
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