New Britain, Conn., Code of Ordinances ch. 13 § 13-152
Handrails
Operative Text
(a) Where the chief building inspector deems it necessary for safety, porches, stairways and/or balconies located more than three (3) feet higher than the adjacent area, shall have structurally sound protective handrails of the height required by the building code, and, if unenclosed, balustrades spaced no less than six (6) inches apart shall also be provided. Every handrail and balustrade shall be firmly fastened and shall be maintained in good condition. (b) Alternate systems providing at least the same degree of protection, if approved by the building official, shall be acceptable.
New Britain Code of Ordinances ch. 13, art. II, div. 7 § 13-152 establishes requirements for handrails and balustrades on porches, stairways, and balconies that sit more than three feet above the surrounding area. When the chief building inspector determines it is necessary for safety, these structures must have structurally sound handrails at the height specified by the building code, and unenclosed areas must also include balustrades spaced no less than six inches apart. All handrails and balustrades must be firmly fastened and kept in good repair, though the building official may approve alternative systems that provide an equivalent level of protection.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 13-152, property owners and managers are generally expected to inspect porches, stairways, and balconies to confirm that any handrails and balustrades are structurally sound, firmly fastened, and maintained in good condition. Compliant operators typically ensure that elevated structures more than three feet above adjacent areas meet building-code height requirements and that unenclosed balustrades are spaced no less than six inches apart. If a non-standard protective system is used, operators generally seek prior approval from the building official to confirm it meets the equivalent safety standard described in subsection (b).
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 13-152 gives tenants a basis to raise concerns when handrails or balustrades on porches, stairways, or balconies appear loose, damaged, or missing, particularly on structures elevated more than three feet above the surrounding area. Tenants who observe such conditions may consider documenting the issue in writing and notifying their landlord, or contacting the New Britain building inspection office to request an inspection. Tenant-rights organizations in Connecticut can also help residents understand what options are generally available when a property may not meet the handrail and balustrade standards set out in this provision.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 11, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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