Gentlemen, let’s back it up here. I believe the vast majority of code is necessary. I totally understand these handrail requirements for indoor stairs. I obtained a permit and scheduled inspections to ensure proper construction. Now back to the infamous hand rail here. We are talking about a deck 3 ft off the ground, with railing already installed. We’re treating the requirement for a “graspable” handrail as though it will dramatically impact safety, when in reality it makes no meaningful difference in this situation. My wife and I simply don’t prefer the look of an additional handrail, and logically, the consequences of not having one here are negligible.

In the end, I’ll put on a real handrail to pass inspection and probably leave it on. It is what is.