Rules for building a hurricane shelter area

(a) Applicable net area. At least 50 percent of the net square feet of a facility must be constructed to qualify as an enhanced hurricane protection area. The net floor area is determined by subtracting from the gross square feet the floor area of excluded spaces, exterior walls, columns, fixed or movable objects, equipment, or other features that under probable conditions cannot be removed or stored during use as a storm shelter. (b) Excluded spaces. Spaces such as mechanical rooms, electrical rooms, storage rooms, attic and crawl spaces, must not be considered as net floor area permitted to be occupied during a hurricane. (c) Occupancy capacity. The occupancy capacity is determined by dividing the net area of the enhanced hurricane protection area by 15 square feet net floor area per person. (d) Toilets and hand washing facilities. Toilet and hand washing facilities must be located and accessible from within the perimeter of the enhanced hurricane protection area. (e) Accessibility. Where the refuge occupancy accommodates more than 50 persons, provide an ADA-accessible route to a shelter area at each facility with a minimum of one wheelchair space for every 200 enhanced hurricane protection area occupants determined in accordance with § 16-14.4 (c).