Section 101. General
101.1 Title.
The regulations contained in this Code constitute and are known as the "Baltimore City Building Code". The Baltimore City Building Code, together with the standards and codes listed in § 101.4 {"Referenced codes"} of this Chapter, as supplemented, amended, or otherwise modified by these provisions, collectively constitute and are known as the "Building, Fire, and Related Codes of Baltimore City".
101.1.1 References to "this Code".
Throughout this Part II, all references to "this Code" refer to the Building, Fire, and Related Codes of Baltimore City.
101.2 Scope. {As in IBC}
Exception 1: {Per MBPS Modification} Detached 1- and 2-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than 3 stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures must comply with the International Residential Code.
Exception 2: {Per MBPS Modification} Existing buildings undergoing repair, alterations, or additions, and change of occupancy must comply with the Maryland Building Rehabilitation Code, set forth in COMAR 09.12.58. {Note: The Maryland Building Rehabilitation Code comprises the 2021 International Existing Building Code, with State modifications.}
Exception 3: {Per MBPS Modification} Maintenance of residential structures and premises must comply with the Minimum Livability Code, as set forth in COMAR 09.12.54.
101.2.1 Appendices.
The appendices to the International Building Code apply as follows:
101.2.1.1 Appendices adopted.
The following appendices are adopted, with or without local modifications, as part of this Code:
1. Appendix C: "Group U – Agricultural Buildings".
2. Appendix D: "Downtown Fire District".
3. Appendix F: "Rodent Proofing".
4. Appendix H: "Signs".
5. Appendix I: "Patio Covers".
6. Appendix J: "Grading".
101.2.1.2 Appendices not adopted.
The following appendices are not adopted as part of this Code:
1. Appendix A: "Employee Qualifications".
2. Appendix B: "Board of Appeals".
3. Appendix E: "Supplementary Accessibility Requirements".
4. Appendix G: "Flood Resistant Construction".
5. Appendix K: "Administrative Provisions".
6. Appendix L: "Earthquake Recording Instrumentation".
7. Appendix M: "Tsunami-Generated Flood Hazard".
8. Appendix N. "Replicable Buildings"
101.3 Purpose. {As in IBC}
101.4 Referenced codes.
The standards and codes listed in this § 101.4, as modified by these provisions and as referred to elsewhere in this Code, are part of the requirements of this Code to the extent prescribed by the reference.
101.4.1 Electrical.
The National Electrical Code (2020 Edition), as modified in Part III of this Code, applies to the installation of electrical systems, including their alteration, repair, replacement, equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings, and appurtenances.
101.4.2 Gas.
The International Fuel Gas Code (2021 Edition), as modified in Part IV of this Code, applies to the installation of gas piping from the point of delivery, to gas appliances, and to related accessories as covered in this Code. These requirements apply to gas piping systems extending from the point of delivery to the inlet connections of appliances and the installation and operation of residential and commercial gas appliances, and related accessories.
101.4.3 Mechanical.
The International Mechanical Code (2021 Edition), as modified in Part V of this Code, applies to the installation, alterations, repairs, and replacement of mechanical systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings, and appurtenances, including ventilating, heating, cooling, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, incinerators, and other energy-related systems.
101.4.4 Plumbing.
The International Plumbing Code (2021 Edition), as modified in Part VI of this Code, applies to the installation, alteration, repair, and replacement, use, or maintenance of or addition to plumbing systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings, and appurtenances.
101.4.5 Property maintenance.
The International Property Maintenance Code (2021 Edition), as modified in Part VII of this Code, applies to existing structures and premises; equipment and facilities; light, ventilation, space heating, sanitation, life, and fire safety hazards; responsibilities of owners, operators, and occupants; and occupancy of existing premises and structures.
101.4.6 Fire prevention.
The International Fire Code (2021 Edition), as modified in Part VIII of this Code, applies to matters affecting or relating to prevention of structures, processes, and premises from the hazard of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling or use of structures, materials, or devices; from conditions hazardous to life, property, or public welfare in the occupancy of structures or premises; and from the construction, extension, repair, alteration or removal of fire suppression, automatic sprinkler systems and alarm systems or fire hazards in the structure or on the premises from occupancy or operation.
101.4.7 Energy.
The International Energy Conservation Code (2021 Edition), as modified in Parts IX-A and IX-B of this Code, applies to all matters governing the design and construction of buildings for energy efficiency.
101.4.8 Residential.
The International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings (2021 Edition), as modified in Part X of this Code, applies to detached 1- and 2-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses), not more than 3 stories above grade plane in height, and their accessory structures.
101.4.9 Green Construction.
The International Green Construction Code Construction (2021 Edition), as modified in Part XI of this Code, applies to construction requirements intended to reduce the negative impacts and increase the positive impacts of the built environment on the natural environment and building occupants.
101.4.10 Swimming Pool and Spa.
The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (2021 Edition), as modified in Part XII of this Code, applies to the construction, alteration, movement, renovation, replacement, repair and maintenance of aquatic recreation facilities, pools and spas.
101.5 References to former Codes.
All references in a violation, condemnation, or other notice, in a citation, or in the Baltimore City Code to any former version of the Building Code or to any provision of that Code are considered to refer to the comparable or otherwise applicable provisions of this Code.