Ignored Building Codes at the Oakland Warehouse Fire

The death toll from the fire that arose at a converted warehouse in Oakland, California last Friday night has risen to 36 and counting, as police are still identifying victims. 

The blaze was the deadliest in the United States since 100 people perished in a 2003 fire at a Rhode Island nightclub.

While still under investigation by the city and its officials, the reports surfacing state that the building is only permitted to operate as a one-story warehouse, not as an avenue for entertainment or as a residential structure to live in, both of which occurred prior to the fire. 

Also of importance, is that a party or concert at the property would have required a permit, which had not been granted.

The decided cause of the blaze and the factors at fault for the tragedy are yet to be determined by police. It is imperative to stay current on the fire codes in your state and local provisions. To take a look at the building fire codes and regulations in your state, click here.