Class 2 or 3: each SOU has access to at least 2 exits, or its own direct access to a road or open space.
Class 9c: protected throughout with a sprinkler system complying with Specification 17 (not FPAA101D or FPAA101H) and compartment area within Type C limits of Table C3D3.
Ancillary use: Where a part of a building used for a different purpose is less than 10% of the total floor area and is only used in connection with the principal use, it may be treated as ancillary to the principal classification — and the whole building adopts the main class. Confirm with the building certifier that the use meets the NCC definition of ancillary. If over 10%, assess both classes separately and apply the more onerous type per C2D5.
Section 112 — Building Act 1975 (Qld):
Applies to buildings existing before 14 December 1993.
Provides a concessional approval pathway for change of BCA classification or use.
Does not exempt from NCC Parts E1 (fire-fighting equipment) or E4 (emergency lighting, exit signs, intercommunication). These remain mandatory.
Building must be assessed as structurally sound for the new use and adequate means of egress confirmed.
If the building contains special fire services, a QFES suitability report must be received before approval is granted (s.112(3)).
A fire engineering performance solution is typically required for heritage buildings to reconcile NCC provisions with conservation constraints.
Enter the floor area of any other building on the same allotment within 6m, even if it is not physically connected. This value is added only for the Large Isolated Building (LIB) floor area test; it does not automatically change the compartment area of the current building.
Select a building class and rise in storeys to see the result.
Reference — Table C2D2
Rise in storeys
Class 2, 3, 9a, 9b, 9c
Class 5, 6, 7a, 7b, 8
4 or more
Type A
Type A
3
Type A
Type B
2
Type B
Type C
1
Type C
Type C
Reference — Table C3D3 — fire compartment size limits