Framing & StructuralQuestion 381 of 700

Guards on open sides of walking surfaces in a dwelling must be at least what height above the walking surface or, for stairs, the line connecting the tread nosings?

a.30 inches
b.34 inches
c.36 inches
d.42 inches

Explanation

The residential code sets a minimum guard height of 36 inches for dwellings. 30 inches is the trigger height at which a guard becomes required, not the guard height itself; 34 inches is a handrail height, not a guard height; 42 inches is the commercial guard height, higher than the residential minimum.

Law Reference: 2025 CA Residential Code §R312.1.2

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