Who creates the standards for occupancy?

The standards for occupancy are primarily established by local laws and housing providers. This is because occupancy standards can vary greatly depending on the specific regulations set by local government entities, such as municipalities and counties, which take into account factors like zoning, health, and safety requirements.

Local laws dictate how many individuals can legally occupy a residence based on factors like the size of the dwelling, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and safety considerations such as fire codes. Housing providers, including landlords and property management companies, may also set their own occupancy standards within the framework of local laws to ensure proper management and maintenance of their properties.

While state regulations and federal housing guidelines do play a role in setting broader legal standards—often related to discrimination and fair housing—they typically do not dictate specific occupancy standards. The property owner may have their own preferences and rules, but these still must align with local laws and regulations. Thus, the most accurate answer is that local laws and housing providers create the standards for occupancy.