Which of the following is an occupancy classification?

• A. Commercial
• B. Office Building
• C. Residential
• D. Outdoor Site

Answer: (C)

Occupancy classification refers to how a space is used and how that use drives safety and code requirements. Living spaces where people actually reside are defined as a residential occupancy, which carries specific protections like smoke detection, egress standards, and construction requirements tailored to daily living. An office building describes the form or use of a building, and while it could fall under a business-type category in some code schemes, it isn’t itself a standalone occupancy classification. An outdoor site isn’t an enclosed occupancy category at all, so it doesn’t fit the concept of occupancy classification. For these reasons, residential is the appropriate occupancy classification.