Bill > HB5148

This bill establishes new regulations for municipal control of stairway requirements in certain multifamily residential buildings, specifically allowing municipalities with certified fire departments to permit single-stairway buildings under specific safety conditions. The bill defines a multifamily residential building as a Group R-2 occupancy structure and outlines 14 detailed safety criteria that such a building must meet to be allowed a single stairway, including limitations on building height (no more than six stories), maximum dwelling units per floor (four), specific sprinkler and fire resistance requirements, exit distance restrictions, emergency escape provisions, and comprehensive smoke and fire detection systems. The legislation does not prevent property owners from enforcing private association rules and still allows municipalities to apply their standard zoning and construction requirements. Importantly, the bill does not mandate single-stairway buildings but provides a framework for municipalities to potentially approve such designs if all specified safety conditions are meticulously met. The law is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, giving municipalities and developers time to understand and implement the new guidelines.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5148