Both the Residential Edition of the Florida Building Code (FBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC) do not list a minimum height for stair risers. The codes only state a maximum riser height of 7-3/4”. But the FBC specifies “ANSI A117.1-09 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities” as a reference standard, which does have 4” as a minimum riser height. Also, the International Building Code (IBC), which is the commercial edition of the International Code series, specifies 4” as a minimum riser.

    So it is likely that a municipal inspector would hold you to a 4” minimum riser using these secondary code references, because it really does make sense. Anything less, like the 2” step shown below, is more of a trip hazard than a step.

    For an overview of stair construction standards, see our blog post What do home inspectors check when inspecting stairs? 

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Here’s links to a collection of our other blog posts about STAIRS:

• What is the minimum headroom clearance for stairs?

• Is a landing always required at the top and bottom of stairs? 

• When is a railing required at stairs?

• When is a nosing required on a stair tread?

• What is the building code requirement for receptacle outlets at stairs and stair landings?  

• Are open stair risers acceptable?

• What is the steepest residential stair allowed?

• Why is a single step dangerous in a house?

• Do I need stairs at all exit doors from a mobile home? 

• The stairs feel too steep. What's the building code? 

• What is the longest stair run allowed? 

• What is the lighting requirement for stairs?

• A light is required over a stair after how many steps/risers? 

• When is safety glass required for windows at stairs and stair landings?

    Visit our STAIRS page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles.