scope:

The provisions of this code shall apply to the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition to and relocation of existing buildings.

Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress, and their accessory structures not more than three stories above grade plane in height, shall comply with this code or the International Residential Code.

• This section establishes where the regulations contained in the code must be followed, whether all or in part. Something must happen (modification to an existing building or allowing an existing building or structure to become unsafe) for the code to be applicable. While such activity may not be as significant as for a new building, a fence is considered a structure and, therefore, its erection is within the scope of the code. The code is not a maintenance document requiring periodic inspections that will, in turn, result in an enforcement action, although periodic inspections are addressed by the International Fire Code^® (IFC^®).

The exception indicates that detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses that are not more than three stories above grade and have separate means of egress may comply with either this code or the International Residential Code^® (IRC^®). The definition of "Townhouse" in the IBC adds that in addition to having a separate means of egress and being limited to more than three stories in height each unit must extend from foundation to roof and there must be open space on at least two sides to be able to use the IRC. This applies to all such structures, whether or not there are lot lines separating them, and also to accessory structures, such as garages and pools. Accessory structures are also limited to not more than three stories in height. Such structures four stories or more in height are beyond the scope of the IRC and must comply with the provisions of the IBC and its referenced codes.