Kauai Building Division, Douglas Haigh
June 21, 2007   [email]


The Section T318.3.2 requirement for a firm and stable surface and a 3 inch curb for an above grade tent platform built under Section T318.3.5 appears to be requiring mobility standards where there are no mobility issues.  The platform is designed for transfer and there is no access for wheelchairs. A soft surface like sand would provide better camping comfort for the user.

The intended use of above grade tent platforms is to allow installation of the tent along the edge of the platform and then the user transfers to the platform and “scoots” into the erected tent.  It is impossible for a wheelchair to access the platforms and persons with other mobility challenges would have not reason to walk on the platform.

Section T318.3.2 requires the tent pad surface to be firm and stable, consistent with other provisions in Chapters T2 and T3.  An exception is permitted where at least one of the four conditions specified in T302 exist.

Section T318.3.5 addresses the connection where a tent platform is raised above grade to provide a level surface to pitch a tent.  Access is provided in a similar fashion to playground equipment by a transfer system including a platform and transfer steps.  The need for mobility equipment on the platform surface was not deemed to be necessary for use, as the surface area is the same size as the tent.

Douglas Haigh, PE
Chief, Building Division
Phone: 808-241-6650, Fax: 808-241-6806
4444 Rice Street, Suite 175
Lihue, HI  96766