This message has been cross posted to the following Discussion Forums: Housing Knowledge Community and Historic Resources Committee .
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In response to David Johannas's request, San Francisco has amended the IBC Section 1205.1 by adding the following exception:
Exception: Guest rooms and habitable rooms (excluding kitchens) within a dwelling unit or congregate residence shall be provided with natural light by means of exterior glazed openings in accordance with Section 1205.2 thus eliminating the provision allowing only artificial light in residences.
I surmise that the Code Council added the provision in the 2006 edition in order to market their wares to developing countries with severe overpopulation and housing problems. Other countries will have to make their own decisions balancing the human need for safe housing vs. the human need for natural light and ventilation, but I do not believe that we, in the USA are so terribly desperate for space that we can afford to allow human habitation without access to natural light. Notably, San Francisco has not amended the section allowing mechanical ventilation. With the quality of air deteriorating outdoors in our urban environments, I guess one could make the argument that we can achieve healthier air quality through mechanical means. However, I remain unconvinced that the same is true for light.
I am encouraged that my City- San Francisco has made the effort to combat this trend towards development-friendly building codes and hope that Richmond and other jurisdictions can follow their example.
Grow-lights anyone?
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A. Atkinson
A. Gordon Atkinson, Architect
San Francisco CA
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