Occupant Load Calculator
Enter floor area and occupancy type to get the IBC/NFPA 101 occupant load and required egress width.
Space Parameters
Used to distribute required egress width. IBC 1006 minimum exit count rules apply separately.
Results
Enter space parameters and click Calculate.
Maximum Occupant Load
occupants (round up per IBC 1004.1)
Floor Area
Load Factor
Min. Egress Door Width per Exit
Level egress (0.2 in/occ)
Stair egress (0.3 in/occ)
IBC 1005.1 — 32 in minimum clear width applies. Divide total by number of exits.
Code basis: IBC 2021 Table 1004.5 / NFPA 101 2021 Table 7.3.1.2. Verify against your jurisdiction's adopted edition and any local amendments.
IBC Table 1004.5 — Occupant Load Factors (Selected Functions)
| Function of Space | Factor (sf/occ) | Area Basis |
|---|
Summary
Enter floor area and occupancy type to get the IBC/NFPA 101 occupant load and required egress width.
How it works
- Select the occupancy function type (e.g., assembly, business, mercantile).
- Choose whether your area measurement is gross or net floor area.
- Enter the floor area in square feet.
- The calculator divides area by the code-prescribed load factor to get occupant load.
- Review the required egress width based on occupant count and egress type.
Use cases
- Determine occupant load during building permit applications.
- Verify egress compliance for tenant improvement projects.
- Size exit doors and corridors for new construction.
- Cross-check occupant loads for fire safety planning.
- Assist architects and code consultants with IBC compliance.
- Estimate capacity for assembly or event spaces.