Balcony railings are typically 36 to 42 inches (91–107 cm) tall. While 36 inches is often the minimum for residential decks, many building codes require a 42-inch (110 cm) height for elevated balconies, multi-story buildings, and commercial applications to prevent accidental falls.

Key Safety and Code Requirements:

Minimum Height: Generally, 36 inches (91.4cm) is the lowest allowed for residential, but 42 inches (106.7cm) is the standard for higher safety, notes this PRANCE Ceiling article.

Child Safety/Spacing: Vertical balusters should not have gaps greater than 4 inches (10 cm) to prevent children from passing through.

Structural Load: Railings must be strong enough to withstand significant lateral force, typically at least 200 pounds.