Construction: code; single exit stairway in multiple-family dwellings; allow under certain conditions. Amends 1972 PA 230 (MCL 125.1501 - 125.1531) by adding sec. 4j.
Key claim: Michigan enacted PA 28 of 2026 (HB5570) amending the state construction code to allow single exit stairways in multiple-family dwellings under certain conditions.
Abstract
(HB5570 · 103rd Legislature) Construction: code; single exit stairway in multiple-family dwellings; allow under certain conditions. Amends 1972 PA 230 (MCL 125.1501 - 125.1531) by adding sec. 4j. Sponsor: Rep. Parker Fairbairn ® + 14 co-sponsors Latest vote: House Third Reading: Roll Call #337 — 102-4 (passed, 2026-07-03) Latest action (2026-07-29): Assigned Pa 28’26 With Immediate Effect
Why this matters
Enactment of PA 28 of 2026 makes Michigan one of a handful of states to formally authorize single-stair multifamily buildings, a change long sought by housing advocates as a way to reduce per-unit construction cost and enable smaller-footprint apartment buildings on infill lots. For builders and local code officials, the practical effect depends on the ‘certain conditions’ specified in new sec. 4j (e.g., building height, unit count, sprinkler and egress requirements), which will shape how much new mid-density housing this actually unlocks.