A flight of stairs shall not have a vertical rise greater than how many feet between floor levels or landings?

• A. 9 feet
• B. 10 feet
• C. 11 feet
• D. 12 feet

Answer: (D)

A flight of stairs must not have a vertical rise greater than 12 feet between floor levels or landings to meet safety and structural integrity requirements. This height ensures that the stairs can be navigated safely and comfortably by users.

Typically, a rise that exceeds 12 feet would necessitate additional design considerations, such as the incorporation of landings, to reduce the risk of accidental falls and to ensure that the stairs adhere to the accessibility features outlined in the building code. It is crucial that the design of stairs promotes safe use and minimizes the physical strain on individuals ascending or descending, which is why this specific height limit is enforced in the building codes.

The other height options—9, 10, and 11 feet—do not comply with the established code, which mandates the 12-foot maximum rise to safeguard users effectively.