I would call the township inspector directly. I have customers that are configured both ways but both of the ones I am thinking of in Wall are a bit older and codes are subject to change.

How wide are your steps? This may be one of the criteria used.

Having the rail there is especially useful for seniors and the handicapped. I understand that the look isn't as clean but I look at that as a small potatoes item in the scheme of things. I often have friends over and am glad my rail is there.

Scott

We weren't required to have railing either, but had the anchors bonded in so that we could put one in later when my Impaired FIL came to visit. Ends up that we've never taken it out. I like having it there, although I am glad that I had them offset it to one side vice centered on the step.