2021 International Fire Code – ICC IFC-2021

Scope:
The 2021 IFC® provides minimum fire safety requirements for both new and existing buildings, facilities, and processes. It covers topics such as fire prevention, life safety, hazardous material storage, and protection of emergency responders. Coordinated with the full suite of I-Codes, it is intended for adoption and use by jurisdictions regulating building safety.

Key Updates in the 2021 IFC:

• Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing):
  New provisions address safety requirements for both industrial and non-industrial additive manufacturing operations.
• Artificial Combustible Vegetation:
  Performance requirements now apply to vegetation exceeding certain heights on roofs or near buildings.
• Emergency Responder Communication Systems:
  Revised to reflect expanded technologies and performance expectations beyond traditional radio systems.
• Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses:
  Clarified sprinkler requirements for storage, manufacturing, and retail—including an exception for single-story self-storage facilities.
• Open Parking Garages:
  Automatic sprinklers now required for fire areas exceeding specific square footage.
• Energy Storage Systems (ESS):
  Updated requirements for installation, commissioning, and decommissioning of modern ESS technologies.
• Storage of Distilled Spirits and Wines:
  A new chapter provides targeted safety standards for barrel and cask storage environments.
• Construction Fire Safety:
  Enhanced focus on site safety planning and explicit owner responsibilities, including the designation of a site safety director.

This edition reflects changes adopted through the ICC’s public code development process and includes integration with ASCE, NFPA, and other national standards.