According to NFPA regulations, how is a hotel defined?

The definition of a hotel according to NFPA regulations is a building that provides sleeping accommodations for more than 16 persons and is primarily used for transient lodging. This means that hotels are designed to accommodate guests who stay for a relatively short period, typically for vacation or business purposes. The emphasis on transient lodging distinguishes hotels from other types of accommodations, such as residential buildings, which are meant for permanent residents.

In specific contexts, transient lodging is defined as accommodations where guests do not stay for long durations, thus fitting the description of a hotel. The requirement for sleeping accommodations for more than 16 persons also aligns with common regulatory standards that ensure safety measures and building codes are adhered to, providing a focus on occupancy limits that can affect fire safety measures and emergency protocols.

Understanding this definition is crucial as it helps clarify the specific standards and regulations that hotels must follow in terms of safety, accessibility, and other operational guidelines set forth by organizations like the NFPA.