Residential Building Information Card (BIC) Requirements

Do These Conditions Apply to Your Building?

You may be required to submit a Building Information Card if your residential building meets any of the following:

• The building is 125 feet or taller
• The building skips the 13th floor
• Floor numbering is non-sequential or non-standard

What the Code Requires

If your building is classified as Occupancy Group R-2, is 125 feet or more in height, and has non-sequential or non-standard floor numbering, the owner must:

• Prepare a Building Information Card (BIC)
• Submit it electronically to the Department
• Ensure it complies with all applicable requirements

What Does “Non-Sequential or Non-Standard” Mean?

This includes any building where floor numbering does not follow a simple sequence (1, 2, 3…).

Examples:

• Skipping floors (e.g., no 13th floor)
• Using letters (e.g., 12A, PH, M)
• Mezzanine levels or split numbering
• Different numbering systems within the same building

What Is a Building Information Card (BIC)?

A Building Information Card is:

• An 11″ × 17″, double-sided laminated document
• Used by first responders as a quick-reference guide during emergencies

What’s Included on the BIC?

Side 1: Building Systems Overview

• Elevators
• Stairwells
• Water supply and utilities
• Fire extinguishing systems
• Ventilation systems

👉 View Side 1 Example

Side 2: Building Layout & Access

• Color-coded plot plan and elevation
• Bordering streets and entrances
• Floors, stairs, elevators, and shafts
• Standpipes
• Mechanical equipment rooms

👉 View Side 2 Example

Need to Comply?

If your building meets these criteria:

👉 Apply for a Residential Building Information Card

👉 View the Specific Code Section