Michigan HB 5570: New Single Exit Stairway Law for Multi-Family Dwellings Explained
Understand how Michigan's new law affects stairway requirements in multi-family buildings and what landlords and builders need to do to comply.
Check your obligations →Michigan HB 5570 allows single exit stairways in certain multi-family dwellings under specific conditions, changing previous building code requirements.
This new law, signed on July 21, 2026, amends the state construction code and may impact how landlords and builders design or renovate apartment buildings.
Understanding the law’s scope, compliance steps, and potential risks is essential for anyone involved in Michigan's multi-family housing sector.
This article breaks down what the law covers, what it means for your properties, and how to stay compliant under the updated regulations.
What Does Michigan HB 5570 Change About Stairway Requirements?
Michigan HB 5570 updates the state construction code to permit a single exit stairway in certain multi-family dwellings, which was not previously allowed under most circumstances.
Before this law, Michigan generally required two or more exit stairways in multi-family buildings to ensure safe evacuation during emergencies. The new law adds Section 4j to 1972 PA 230, creating an exception that allows a single stairway when specific conditions are met.
The law’s exact criteria and limitations are detailed in the official bill text, and property owners should review these carefully. This change aims to provide more flexibility in building design, especially for smaller or lower-rise apartment buildings, while still maintaining safety standards.
Landlords and builders should note that this law does not automatically allow single stairways in all cases; the conditions set by the statute must be met and verified.
- Single exit stairways now allowed under defined conditions
- Amends Michigan’s construction code (1972 PA 230)
- Applies to new and possibly renovated multi-family dwellings
The law creates new design options but requires careful compliance with its conditions.
Sources: Official source
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Consult a Compliance Lawyer →Who Is Affected by the New Single Exit Stairway Law?
Michigan HB 5570 directly affects landlords, property managers, builders, architects, and developers involved in constructing or renovating multi-family dwellings in Michigan.
Landlords and property owners planning new developments or major renovations must now consider whether their building qualifies for the single stairway exception. Builders and architects must ensure that their designs comply with both the new law and any related fire safety or local zoning requirements.
Local building officials and inspectors will also play a key role in interpreting and enforcing the new rules. This may lead to differences in how the law is applied across jurisdictions, so early communication with local authorities is recommended.
Existing buildings are not automatically required to change their stairway configuration, but any substantial renovations or new construction after the effective date must comply with the updated code.
- Landlords and property managers
- Developers and builders
- Architects and engineers
- Local building officials
Anyone planning multi-family housing projects in Michigan should review the new requirements before starting work.
Sources: Official source
Could your property or project be at risk under Michigan HB 5570?
Does your multi-family building in Michigan have only a single exit stairway?
Are you planning new construction or renovations for a multi-family dwelling?
Do you know if your building meets the specific conditions required by HB 5570 for single exit stairways?
How Can Landlords and Builders Comply With Michigan HB 5570?
To comply with Michigan HB 5570, landlords and builders must ensure their multi-family dwelling projects meet all conditions outlined in the new law before using a single exit stairway design.
The first step is to review the official bill text and consult with a qualified architect or code consultant familiar with Michigan’s construction code. Builders should document how their designs meet each condition set by the statute and be prepared to present this to local building officials during the permitting process.
Landlords planning renovations should verify whether their project qualifies for the exception or if additional upgrades are needed to meet fire safety standards. In some cases, local fire departments may require extra safety features, such as sprinklers or fire-rated corridors, even if the state law allows a single stairway.
A non-obvious compliance tip: When planning a project that may qualify, proactively request a pre-construction meeting with both local building and fire officials. This can help clarify any local interpretations of the law and avoid costly design changes later.
- Review the official law and local codes
- Consult with qualified professionals
- Document compliance for permitting
- Schedule pre-construction meetings with officials
Early planning and documentation are key to smooth compliance and avoiding delays.
Sources: Official source
Potential Risks and Liabilities Under the New Law
Landlords and builders who do not comply with Michigan HB 5570 risk legal penalties, project delays, or even denial of occupancy permits for their multi-family dwellings.
If a building is constructed or renovated with a single exit stairway without meeting all statutory conditions, owners could face fines or be required to retrofit the building at significant cost. Non-compliance may also increase liability in the event of an emergency, as insurance companies and courts may scrutinize whether the building met all legal requirements.
It is important to note that the law’s requirements may interact with other fire safety codes, local ordinances, and insurance policies. Builders should verify that their projects comply with all applicable standards, not just the state law.
A real-world example: In other states that have adopted similar stairway exceptions, some developers faced unexpected costs when local fire marshals required additional safety features not explicitly mentioned in state law. Michigan builders should be prepared for similar scenarios.
- Fines or penalties for non-compliance
- Project delays or denied permits
- Potential liability in emergencies
- Insurance complications
Consult legal and insurance professionals to fully understand your risk exposure.
Sources: Official source
How Does Michigan HB 5570 Compare to Previous Stairway Rules?
Michigan HB 5570 marks a significant shift from previous stairway requirements, which generally mandated two or more exits for multi-family dwellings.
The new law introduces flexibility for certain buildings, potentially lowering construction costs and allowing for more creative layouts. However, it does not eliminate the need for safety; the law still sets clear conditions that must be met for a single stairway to be allowed.
Compared to older rules, this approach aligns Michigan with trends in some other states and national model codes, which have started to allow single exit stairways in specific low-rise or small-scale residential buildings. This change may make Michigan more competitive for developers seeking cost-effective housing solutions.
However, the tradeoff is that owners and builders must be diligent in documenting compliance and understanding both state and local requirements, as the new flexibility also brings new responsibilities.
- Previous code: two or more exit stairways required
- New law: single stairway allowed under conditions
- Aligns with some national trends
The law balances design flexibility with safety by setting clear limits on when a single stairway is allowed.
Sources: Official source
What Should You Do Next If You Own or Plan to Build a Multi-Family Dwelling?
If you own or plan to build a multi-family dwelling in Michigan, you should review Michigan HB 5570 and consult with professionals to determine how the new stairway rules apply to your project.
Start by reading the official bill text and discussing your plans with an architect or builder experienced in Michigan code compliance. If your building may qualify for the single stairway exception, prepare detailed documentation and engage with local building officials early in the process.
Consider reaching out to your insurance provider to confirm that your building’s design will not affect your coverage or premiums. It is also wise to monitor updates from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and local authorities, as they may issue guidance or clarifications on the new law.
Remember, this article provides general information only. Always verify details against the official law and consult a qualified professional for legal or technical advice.
- Read the official law text
- Consult with architects and code experts
- Engage local building officials early
- Check insurance implications
Taking proactive steps now can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your project’s success.
Sources: Official source
Frequently asked questions
What is Michigan HB 5570 and what does it change?
Michigan HB 5570 is a new law that allows single exit stairways in certain multi-family dwellings under specific conditions. It amends the state construction code and creates an exception to the previous rule that generally required two or more exit stairways.
Who needs to comply with the new single exit stairway law in Michigan?
Landlords, builders, architects, and developers of multi-family dwellings in Michigan must comply with the new law if their projects involve new construction or major renovations after the law’s effective date.
Does the law apply to existing apartment buildings?
The law does not require existing buildings to change their stairway configuration, but any new construction or substantial renovation must comply with the updated code.
What are the risks of not following Michigan HB 5570?
Not following the law can result in fines, project delays, denied permits, and increased liability in emergencies. Insurance coverage may also be affected if the building does not meet all legal requirements.
How can I find out if my building qualifies for a single exit stairway?
You should review the official law text and consult with a qualified architect or code expert. Local building officials can provide guidance on whether your project meets the law’s conditions.
Are there additional safety requirements besides the stairway rule?
Yes, your project may still need to meet other fire safety codes, local ordinances, and insurance requirements, even if it qualifies for a single stairway under state law.
Where can I read the full text of Michigan HB 5570?
You can read the full law at the official Michigan Legislature website: https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2026-HB-5570.
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