The following regulations apply to all elevated beds constructed by or for students. Notre Dame Modular Systems, as found in several residence halls, are regulated separately.

a. Students must complete a permit form prior to building an elevated bed. Elevated beds only may be constructed; platforms, lofts or structures which constitute additional floor surfaces are not permitted. Permits for elevated beds will be available from residence hall staff at the beginning of the fall semester.

b. Students may construct an elevated frame for a bed. The frame may be no longer than needed to accommodate the mattress on top of the bed springs. Bed springs must be incorporated into the frame as a support for the mattress.

c. Two elevated beds may be built in any room.

d. In rooms with more than two elevated beds, their total area shall not comprise more than 35 percent of the total room area.

e. In buildings equipped with automatic sprinklers, elevated beds must be located so as to minimize automatic sprinkler interference.

(1) Sidewall sprinklers-Locate bed on opposite wall from sprinkler(s).
(2) Overhead sprinklers-Do not locate elevated bed directly under sprinkler(s).

f. Elevated beds must not be attached to ceilings or walls or be supported by wardrobes, sinks or other room furnishings.

g. Elevated beds must be adequately braced and bolted securely to prevent swaying and collapse. At least two bolts, with attached nuts, per joint are required for all joined members. The main vertical structural members should be at least 4" x 4" or equivalent dimensioned lumber.

h. Elevated beds or their frames shall not be enclosed with fabric, plywood or any other material.

i. Elevated beds shall abut only on the short ends except when placed in an "L" shaped configuration.

j. The top of the mattress shall be no higher than 7 feet from the floor, regardless of ceiling height.

k. Construction of elevated beds must be completed by the beginning of the first full week of semester classes, or sooner as mandated by the rector.

l. All elevated beds will be inspected by University Facilities Operations and/or Risk Management personnel, who will have final authority with respect to interpretation, modification and enforcement of these regulations. Elevated beds may not be modified or altered after they have been approved by the inspectors.

m. Keep in mind that all lofts must be broken down in late April, prior to room inspections.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE ELEVATED BED AGREEMENT FORM.

Questions regarding elevated beds should be directed to orlh@nd.edu.