Where the distance between connected buildings is more than how many feet, the walls at the intersection of the pedestrian walkway and each building do not need to be fire-resistance rated?

The correct answer is based on the fire safety codes and regulations that govern the construction of commercial buildings, particularly concerning fire-resistance-rated walls. When the distance between connected buildings, such as in a complex where multiple structures are linked, exceeds 10 feet, it is deemed that the risk of fire spreading between these buildings is significantly reduced.

At this distance, the potential for a fire in one building affecting another is minimized, allowing for a regulatory allowance where the walls at the intersection of the pedestrian walkway and each building do not need to be fire-resistance rated. This is based on the understanding that fire safety provisions are calibrated to ensure adequate protection without imposing overly stringent requirements when the risk is low.

Distances shorter than 10 feet require fire-resistance-rated walls since the proximity increases the likelihood of transfer of heat, flames, or smoke from one building to another. Therefore, the 10-foot threshold provides a practical balance between safety and construction feasibility.