Which occupancy is described as the display and sale of merchandise?

• A. Health care
• B. Ambulatory health care
• C. Mercantile
• D. Residential

Answer: (C)

Occupancy classifications are based on the primary use of the space. Mercantile occupancy is defined by spaces where merchandise is displayed to the public and offered for sale. This distinguishes it from places dedicated to services or living quarters. So a department store, grocery store, or shop fits mercantile because its main function is retail—displaying goods and enabling customers to buy them. The presence of back-of-house storage or offices doesn’t change the occupancy—the defining feature is the display and sale of merchandise to customers.