Exterior walls rated for exposure to fire from both sides must have a fire separation distance less than or equal to what amount?

In the context of fire safety and building codes, exterior walls that are rated for exposure to fire from both sides require a specific fire separation distance to mitigate the risk of fire spread. The correct answer indicates that for such walls, the fire separation distance must be less than or equal to 10 feet.

This requirement is typically enforced to ensure that buildings maintain safe distances from each other, reducing the risk that a fire in one structure could ignite a fire in another. Within this specified separation range, walls must be constructed to certain fire-resistive standards to provide adequate protection and hold the fire longer, allowing for a safer evacuation and firefighting efforts.

The rationale for this particular distance—10 feet—strikes a balance between enabling sufficient spacing for safety while also allowing for practical development in urban and suburban areas where buildings may be closer together. Maintaining this separation distance is vital for upholding fire safety regulations and protecting life and property in the event of a fire incident.