What is the required distance for fire lanes in a commercial property?

The required distance for fire lanes in commercial properties is typically established to ensure that emergency vehicles can access the site safely and efficiently. A width of 20 feet unobstructed allows for adequate space for fire apparatus and other emergency vehicles, which often need to maneuver and position themselves quickly in response to emergencies. This width facilitates the safe transportation of firefighting equipment and personnel between the road and the building or incident site.

Additionally, maintaining this width unobstructed is crucial. An obstruction can impede emergency vehicle access during critical situations, potentially compromising response times. The 20-foot standard strikes a balance, allowing for sufficient accessibility while minimizing land disruption on commercial properties.

Other wider distances may be required in some jurisdictions, but the 20-foot specification is widely adopted and recognized as sufficient for most urban and suburban commercial settings.