Final answer:
The question asks about the minimum square footage required per shelter occupant by the NYC Building Code. While specific figures from the reference material were not available, the answer explains the purpose of such regulations with historical context and relevance to modern housing challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the building code regulations in New York City, specifically addressing the minimum livable area that must be provided per occupant in a shelter. Although the exact figure is not provided in my reference material, generally such requirements are established by local building codes to ensure safety, health, and efficient waste management.
Shelters must comply with these codes to avoid overcrowding and must have adequate means of egress to ensure that occupants can safely exit the building in case of emergencies. The historical context provided by the tenement houses of New York illustrates the evolution of such standards, recognizing the impacts of overcrowding in the early 20th century. The issue remains relevant as modern cities continue to navigate challenges related to homelessness and housing.