This article discusses fire safety rules for storing items in stairwells in Queensland, explaining when residents may keep a pram in a fire stairwell without creating a safety risk.
Question: Can I store a pram in the fire stairwell
Answer: Compliance depends on the specific conditions of the stairwell and the nature, size, and placement of the item.
Under the Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008 (BFSR 2008), items may only be placed in an exit or evacuation route (including fire-isolated stairwells) if they do not reduce the required width of the path of travel, obstruct egress, or create a potential hazard during an emergency.
As long as the pram fully complies with the relevant clauses of the BFSR 2008—meaning it does not impede evacuation, restrict access for occupants or emergency services, or create any additional fire or trip hazard—its storage may be permitted.
However, please note that we are unable to give definitive approval for this situation, as compliance depends on the specific conditions of the stairwell and the nature, size, and placement of the item. This response also does not extend to other types of objects stored in a stairwell, each of which must be assessed individually for compliance.
If you require a formal assessment or further clarification, we recommend reviewing the exact stairwell layout against the BFSR 2008 requirements or seeking on-site professional advice.
Stefan Bauer
Fire Matters
E: sbauer@firematters.com.au
P: 07 3071 9088
This post appears in the March 2026 edition of The QLD Strata Magazine.
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