At 50 occupants, the occupancy then becomes an "assembly" and requires a permit — we call it a permitted occupancy. At that point, the structure needs an annual operating permit, two exits on opposite ends of the structure, perhaps a fire sprinkler system depending on jurisdiction, etc, etc. The point is, once you require a permit, everything is a lot costlier and more detailed.
Therefore, 49 becomes the magic number for a lot of places. The occupancy may be able to accommodate 1000 people, but if they agree to stay at 49 or below, they can avoid the permit and its requirements.
Next time you're in a business (restaurants especially), look to see how many people post "49" as their occupancy requirement. Especially smaller businesses in older, hard to renovate buildings.
PimpMogul on May 25th, 2017 at 12:35 UTC »
NFPA 101 requires 2 means of egress if you have more than 49 occupants. If you have 49 or less, one exit door is sufficient.
saldelmundo on May 25th, 2017 at 12:51 UTC »
Historical building status protects the original sign, but occupancy standards changed to reflect new data. That's why.
fender1878 on May 25th, 2017 at 16:25 UTC »
Fire Inspector here....
At 50 occupants, the occupancy then becomes an "assembly" and requires a permit — we call it a permitted occupancy. At that point, the structure needs an annual operating permit, two exits on opposite ends of the structure, perhaps a fire sprinkler system depending on jurisdiction, etc, etc. The point is, once you require a permit, everything is a lot costlier and more detailed.
Therefore, 49 becomes the magic number for a lot of places. The occupancy may be able to accommodate 1000 people, but if they agree to stay at 49 or below, they can avoid the permit and its requirements.
Next time you're in a business (restaurants especially), look to see how many people post "49" as their occupancy requirement. Especially smaller businesses in older, hard to renovate buildings.