Do Spiral Staircases Meet Code in Utah? Yes — If They’re Built Like This

Published On: July 1, 2025By Jason Pedersen

Spoiler alert: Yes, our custom spiral staircases in Utah can meet code — but only if they’re done right. And by “done right,” we don’t mean that YouTube DIY spiral made of PVC and hope. We mean precision fabrication, smart design, and understanding what your inspector actually cares about.

Utah Building Code + Spiral Stairs
What Utah Code Requires
How We Build to Pass
Tiny Home or Cabin? No Problem
Tough Inspector? Here’s What We Do
Ready to Build One?

📏 Utah Building Code + Spiral Stairs = A Tight Dance

If you’re adding a spiral staircase to your home, cabin, tiny house, or patio escape hatch — the big question is:

Will my spiral staircase pass inspection?

The good news? Yes, it absolutely can. We custom-build each spiral staircase to align with Utah’s residential code requirements — and we’ve done the homework so you don’t have to.

See the Utah Building Code for spiral staircases for yourself.

✅ What Utah Code Requires (And What We Actually Do)

Requirement	Utah Code	Titan Forge Standard
Max riser height	9.5″ (spirals only)	We keep ours under 7.5″ for better comfort & safety
Tread depth at 12″ from center	Min 7.5″	Ours typically land at 8″–9″
Baluster spacing	< 4″ gap	Check — we do this every time
Handrail height	34–38″	Standard on all our builds
Structural anchoring	Required	1/4″ or thicker base plates bolted to concrete or steel

🛠️ Why It Matters (And How We Build to Pass)

Every riser is calculated with precision — no guessing
Balusters are spaced correctly and look damn good doing it
Anchor points are overbuilt to hold weight and pass any tug test
We plan around inspection standards from the beginning — not after a red tag

We’ve even had customers forward emails from their contractors saying, “This is the nicest prefab metal work I’ve ever installed.”

🏡 What If My Staircase Is for a Cabin or Tiny Home?

Whether it’s:

A cozy A-frame cabin in Heber
A tiny house on wheels in Moab
A backyard Airbnb unit in Park City

Our custom spiral staircases are designed to fit your space while still meeting residential code. We’ll ask the right questions, get your dimensions, and guide you through what’s possible.

💥 But Wait… What If My Inspector Is a Stickler?

Then we’re your best friend. We’ll send detailed specs, drawings, and breakdowns you can hand right to your contractor or building official. We’ve worked with cities across Utah — from Salt Lake to Springville — and we’re happy to help get your permit paperwork looking sharp.

Bonus: Check out our behind-the-scenes blog to see how one project came together — including all the math, welding, and “oh crap” moments.

🧠 Frequently Asked Questions: Utah Spiral Staircase Code

Can a spiral staircase be used as the main stairway in Utah?

Yes, but only in specific cases. Utah’s building code allows spiral staircases as the primary means of access to a space if it’s less than 250 square feet and doesn’t serve more than one room (like a loft or storage area). For full-sized floors, you’ll need a code-compliant traditional staircase.

What’s the minimum tread depth for a spiral staircase to meet Utah code?

According to Utah Residential Code, the tread must be at least 7.5 inches deep, measured 12 inches from the center pole. We typically build treads at 8–9 inches for better footing and comfort.

How wide does a spiral staircase need to be?

The clear walking path must be at least 26 inches wide, not including handrails or center poles. We always account for this in our CAD layouts to make sure your staircase is both code-compliant and functional.

Can I install a spiral staircase in a tiny home or cabin?

Absolutely — and we specialize in that. We custom-build spiral staircases to meet code and fit tight spaces. Whether your home is on wheels or tucked into a mountain hillside, we’ll guide you through every dimension and clearance. But be sure to plan a head with your contractor so that size, weight, and movability are all taken into consideration.

What if my inspector is extra picky?

That’s our jam. We’ll provide spec sheets, CAD drawings, and anchor details that building inspectors love. We’ve worked with cities all across Utah — from Moab to Ogden — and we’ll make sure your inspector has zero reason to say no.

📍 Want a Spiral Staircase That Actually Passes Code?

Let’s build one.

Jason (that’s me) will walk you through the process — from CAD layout to the final weld bead. No nonsense, no shortcuts, and no wondering if you’ll get a green tag.

Call or text: 385-301-6038
Or fill out the contact form here »

Let’s make your spiral staircase stronger than your HOA’s opinions.