Type III construction is usually limited to buildings of how many stories or less?

• A. Three stories or less
• B. Four stories or less
• C. Five stories or less
• D. Six stories or less

Answer: (B)

Type III construction pairs noncombustible exterior walls with interior framing that can be wood, so while the outer shell resists fire, the interior is more vulnerable than in the higher-rated types. Because of that mix, the fire performance and life-safety considerations are more constrained, which is why the code usually limits these buildings to four stories or less. Keeping the height to four stories helps ensure adequate egress, firefighting access, and predictable fire behavior without needing the more stringent protections required for taller, fully noncombustible structures. In short, four stories or less is the typical limit for this construction type.