Ann Arbor building appeals board tables appeal over basement egress at 200 North State

The Ann Arbor Building Board of Appeals on Feb. 20, 2025, tabled an appeal (BBA 25.0001) by the applicant for 200 North State seeking relief from section 1,030.3 of the 2015 Michigan Building Code regarding the maximum sill height for emergency‑escape and rescue openings in basement sleeping rooms.

The matter was tabled so city staff can review code implications of an added sprinkler system and fire‑alarm work in the basement. The board voted to table the appeal unanimously; no final decision on the requested interpretation or variance was made.

Staff summarized the request and recommended denial. Michael Lemieux, building department staff, said the permit (issued Oct. 8, 2024) covers interior renovations to a 1930 R‑2 (multi‑family) building and that plan review flagged basement windows that “do not meet the standard for emergency escape and rescue openings.” Lemieux told the board: “Staff recommends this…