20x30 1 1/2 with "sleeping loft"

[lynn_cjhouse]

Would it be possible to build the 20x30 1 1/2 story with just a ladder to the loft? Is that allowed by code? We don't really want to use up space with the stairs and we aren't planning on using the loft for much, except for a little bit of storage and a spare bed if we get company. Thanks for any insight.

[handyman]

Lynn

     My 20 x 30 loft has a ladder for access and is used by the young only.  If you tell the inspector it is for storage you could put a ladder back up after final inspection.

                            Bryce

[Don_P]

It depends on the use. For a habitable room, a sleeping loft,  a stair is required by code.

[firefox]

What about those pull down stairs for attics? On second thought, you could
end up with someone getting trapped up there, or some pet. Not
one of my better ideas.

[Don_P]

For an attic they are acceptable, for a habitable space a stair is the code requirement. A spiral stair is probably the smallest to-code footprint.

[grover]

I plan on a steep set of stairs, more like a ladder.  I don't have anything definite yet on the ladder but there is a window for escape if necessary.

[Don_P]

Yes, sleeping rooms are required to have an exit door to the outside or egress rated window.