Basement Staircase - REHAB - Section 8 Guidance

[Jerome Foster]

Hello BP -  I am looking for some guidance on staircase railings, especially for Section 8 rental approval.  Can I have an OPEN side to the staircase into the basement area....?  Or, is there a requirement to have railing on BOTH sides going into the basement.   

I ask because to put railing on BOTH sides would NOT allow certain (ie; couch, bed, etc) furnishings to be easily placed in the basement....  I dont want HOLES in my walls, or railing removed/replaced just to get furniture into this room.   This home is in Cook County Illinois.    HELLLLLLP - in rehab mode, but NEED NEXT steps - no waste for money.....ijs....

Please see the attached photo of - current state.....  Is this "ok"....?