2021 International Building Code – ICC IBC-2021

Scope:
The 2021 International Building Code (IBC) applies to all buildings except detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories in height.

Key Updates in the 2021 IBC:

1. Puzzle Rooms (Escape Rooms):
   Now classified as special amusement areas, these must comply with Section 411, including specific means of egress requirements.

2. Control Areas:
   For calculating allowable control areas, each building portion separated by one or more fire walls is now considered a separate building.

3. Enhanced Classroom Acoustics:
   Group E occupancies must provide acoustics compliant with ICC A117.1 in classrooms with a volume of 20,000 cubic feet or less.

4. Metal Composite Materials (MCM):
   Requirements for MCMs on exterior walls of Types I–IV construction have been simplified, and sprinkler allowances removed.

5. Shipping Containers:
   The use of intermodal shipping containers as buildings is specifically addressed, supplementing existing IBC provisions.

6. Group S-2 Parking Garages:
   Automatic sprinkler systems are now required if any fire area exceeds 48,000 square feet.

7. Accessibility Standards:
   The 2017 edition of ICC A117.1 is adopted.

8. Parapet Requirements:
   Minimum-height parapets are now required on aggregate-surfaced roofs to reduce the risk of material blow-off.

9. Mixed Occupancy and Risk Categories:
   Buildings with assembly spaces and total occupant loads over 2,500 are now classified as Risk Category III.

10. Snow Loads:
    The snow map aligns with ASCE 7-16, referencing ASCE 7 snow tables in applicable states.

11. Secondary Rain Loads:
    Updated to align with ASCE 7 provisions.

12. Mass Timber Construction:
    Special inspection is required for anchorage and connection of mass timber structural elements.

13. Fire-Resistant Systems in Group R:
    Special inspections are required in Group R fire areas with occupant loads over 250, for firestop and fire-resistant systems.

14. Frost Protection:
    Added requirements for egress door frost protection at the foundation level.

15. ACI Standards:
    ACI 117 and ITG 7 standards are now referenced to define concrete construction tolerances.

16. New Construction Types IV-A, IV-B, and IV-C:
    These classifications permit mass timber buildings with increased heights, more stories, and greater floor areas than previously allowed under heavy timber provisions.2021 International Building Code – ICC IBC-2021