IBC Code Compliance GPT
Occupancy classification, construction types, mixed-use separations, and IBC code compliance — conversationally.
Conversational IBC research guide for architects, designers, and code consultants. It helps organize occupancy, construction type, height and area, egress, fire separation, and plumbing-fixture questions with section references for verification against the adopted edition.
The Problem
IBC occupancy classification and construction type decisions made early in schematic design determine building height, area, fire resistance ratings, and egress strategy. Wrong classifications at SD compound through every subsequent phase and appear as plan check corrections.
How It Works
Describe your building: uses, occupant loads, construction intent, and location. It walks through occupancy classification, mixed-use options, construction type selection, and the resulting height and area allowances under IBC Table 504.3 and 506.2.
"6-story mixed-use with ground-floor retail and R-2 above — what construction types are permitted?""what is the occupancy classification for a co-working space with private offices?"Key Features
Who It's For
Architects and code consultants classifying buildings under IBC for schematic design and permit submission.
This tool provides IBC code guidance based on IBC 2021. Local amendments vary significantly — always verify with the authority having jurisdiction. It does not review your actual drawings. For full drawing set compliance review, use the Drawing Review Agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between separated and non-separated mixed occupancy?
In non-separated mixed occupancy, the most restrictive requirements apply to the entire building but no rated separations are required. In separated mixed occupancy, each occupancy follows its own requirements but requires rated fire barriers between occupancy groups per Table 508.4.
How do I increase allowable building area under IBC Section 506?
Select the applicable Table 506.2 value for the occupancy, construction subtype, sprinkler condition, and one- or multistory case, then apply the Section 506 equation and any qualifying frontage factor. Do not multiply an unsprinklered value by one universal sprinkler percentage.
What construction type is required for a 5-story wood-frame residential building?
There is no answer from story count and the phrase ‘wood frame’ alone. Confirm the occupancy, exact construction subtype, sprinkler condition, height, story and area table cells, mass-timber or special-building provisions, and any horizontal-building-separation proposal under the adopted edition.