Relocatable Classroom Information Topics

When locating a new relocatable classroom building or group of buildings near existing school buildings, the provisions of California Building Code Sections 503, 504, 505 and 705 must be carefully considered. Basically, the code says that a classroom building can be no more than 9,100 square feet, assuming it is of type V non-rated construction (as most are). Since classrooms are usually around 960 square feet, this means that a typical classroom building with nine classrooms and a few toilets is probably as big as it can legally be. There is, however, an exception which allows the building to be bigger, if the building is a minimum distance from the school's property line and all other structures on two, three or all of the building's sides. Under this circumstance, the classroom building may be increased in size to as much as 18,200 square feet, depending on the total amount of separation, and the number of separated sides.

Any other structures within 20 feet of the building (overhangs included), must be included as part of the building for purposes of determining the total area. Therefore, when locating a new relocatable classroom, it is usually best to maintain 20 feet clear between the closest point of the relocatable's overhang and the existing classroom building's overhang. Up to nine relocatables may be located within a foot or two of each other, as long as the twenty foot perimeter space (considering the relocatables as one aggregate building) is maintained.

All new relocatable buildings must be accessible to persons with disabilities. In addition, State Law and Division of the State Architect policy require that the following existing facilities be made accessible:

• Parking space(s) serving the new relocatables(s). This includes a van-accessible space;
• Drinking fountains;
• Toilet facilities (at least one pair); and
• A path of travel (including all necessary signs) connecting the above items to the new relocatable classroom(s).

DSA will no longer grant relief from the above requirements. The California Attorney General has determined that to do so violates the Americans with Disabilities Act.

All new relocatable buildings must be provided with an approved fire alarm system. This system may be manual or fully automatic, and usually must be tied into the existing campus fire alarm system. A new stand alone system (which is not interconnected) may be provided under the following conditions:

• The building or group of buildings has an aggregate floor area of less than 9,100 s.f.;
• A DSA approved means of communication is provided between the relocatable(s) and the school administrative office; and
• The building or group of buildings must be separated from other buildings by a minimum of 20 feet (including overhangs).

• CSFM's Relocatable Classroom Fire Code Requirements
• DSA's Alternative Relocatable School Buildings Approval Procedures
• DSA's Class Size Reduction Program Procedures