Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

Michigan House Bill HB5571

Introduced
2/24/26  
Refer
2/24/26  

Caption

Construction: code; single exit stairway in multiple-family dwellings with not more than 6 levels; allow under certain conditions. Amends 1972 PA 230 (MCL 125.1501 - 125.1531) by adding sec. 4j. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5570'26

Impact

If enacted, HB 5571 would significantly impact construction standards for multiple-family dwellings. The bill simplifies stairway requirements, thereby potentially reducing construction costs and enhancing architectural options. However, it also sets strict criteria regarding fire alarm systems, smoke detectors, and other safety measures that must be installed, necessitating a balance between cost-saving designs and stringent safety regulations. Local governments will need to adapt their building codes accordingly to align with the new state law.

Summary

House Bill 5571 is designed to amend the Stille-DeRossett-Hale Single State Construction Code Act in Michigan by introducing a provision that allows certain multiple-family dwellings to have only one interior exit stairway under specific conditions. This legislative change is directed at structures that have between 4 to 6 levels above grade or occupiable roofs, where only a limited number of units and floor area are permitted. The intent is to provide flexibility in design while still ensuring safety protocols are maintained.

Contention

Points of contention in discussions surrounding HB 5571 include concerns about fire safety and evacuation protocols. Opponents argue that permitting a single interior exit stairway could pose risks in emergencies, underscoring the importance of having multiple egress points in residential buildings. Supporters, however, emphasize that the conditions outlined in the bill, such as the requirement for approved fire protection systems, mitigate these concerns and allow for more innovative designs. As such, the bill reflects a tug-of-war between enhancing safety while promoting modern construction methodologies.

Companion Bills

MI HB5570

Same As Housing: codes; single exit stairway in multiple-family dwellings; allow under certain conditions. Amends 1972 PA 230 (MCL 125.1501 - 125.1531) by adding sec. 4i.

Previously Filed As

MI HB5570

Housing: codes; single exit stairway in multiple-family dwellings; allow under certain conditions. Amends 1972 PA 230 (MCL 125.1501 - 125.1531) by adding sec. 4i.

MI HF4545

Rulemaking required to allow single-exit stairway apartment buildings as part of State Building Code.

MI SF5153

Rulemaking requirement to allow single-exit stairway apartment buildings as part of the State Building Code

MI HB3913

Cities and towns; buildings; single-stairway apartment; effective date.

MI HB5148

Relating to municipal regulation of stairway requirements in certain multifamily residential buildings.

MI SB2835

Relating to municipal regulation of stairway requirements in certain apartment buildings.

MI A1536

Permits single exit stairwells in certain new residential buildings under State Uniform Construction Code.

MI S2968

Permits single exit stairwells in certain new residential buildings under State Uniform Construction Code.

MI SB213

Revise the state building code to allow single stairwells in certain buildings

MI SB282

Relative to stairway requirements in certain residential buildings.

Similar Bills

TX SB2835

Relating to municipal regulation of stairway requirements in certain apartment buildings.

TX HB5148

Relating to municipal regulation of stairway requirements in certain multifamily residential buildings.

MI HB5570

Housing: codes; single exit stairway in multiple-family dwellings; allow under certain conditions. Amends 1972 PA 230 (MCL 125.1501 - 125.1531) by adding sec. 4i.

OK HB3913

Cities and towns; buildings; single-stairway apartment; effective date.