The code controls staircase width, step height, step depth, and more.
Learn residential stair code for remodeling or building a home.
Local Codes and Permitting
This guide is derived from the International Residential Code (IRC).
The Spruce / Ashley Poskin
Always check with yourpermitting agencysince communities may adopt either the IRC or IBC wholesale or partially.
In every case, you must follow the local code to pass inspections.
The staircase width distance must be 36 inches or more.
The staircase riser height should be no more than 7-3/4 inches.
Check For Riser Height Consistency
Measure the height of every stair in the staircase.
Stair heights can vary by no more than 3/8-inch.
The staircase tread depth must be at least 10 inches.
The staircase headroom height should be 6 feet, 8 inches, minimum.
This distance does not includehandrails.
It should be no more than 7 3/4 inches.
Stair heights can vary by 3/8-inch, but no more.
In other words, the space must be slightly less than 4 inches high.
The tread depth measurement of every tread in a stairway should be as close as possible.
The largest nosing projection cannot be more than 3/8-inch greater than the smallest nosing projection.
Staircase Landing Width: Staircase Width or More
Everystaircase should have a landingat the top and bottom.
The minimum depth, measured in the direction of travel, is 36 inches.
Staircase Terms
R 311.7.1 Width.
2021 International Residential Code (IRC).
2021 International Residential Code (IRC).
2021 International Residential Code (IRC).
2021 International Residential Code (IRC).
2021 International Residential Code (IRC).
R 311.7.6 Landings for stairways.
2021 International Residential Code (IRC).
2021 International Residential Code (IRC).
