Building Code Glossary
Array: Building Code Definition
How the IFC 2009 define array, where the wording differs, and which chapters depend on the term.
On this page
Last updated September 7, 2026 · Definitions quoted from the 2009 International Codes as transcribed in this site's building-codes collection, with the source chapter linked for each quotation. Usage counts are computed over the chapters hosted here, one copy per code. The [ICC code library](https://codes.iccsafe.org/codes) publishes the current model text and the [ICC adoption maps](https://www.iccsafe.org/advocacy/code-adoption-maps/) show which edition a jurisdiction has adopted; those sources control.
Direct answer
Array is a defined term in the International Fire Code (IFC) 2009, in High-piled Combustible Storage. The code's own words are: “The configuration of storage. Characteristics considered in defining an array include the type of packaging, flue spaces, height of storage and compactness of storage.” No other I-Code in this corpus defines it, so the IFC 2009 definition is the one to work from. The term is used in 6 chapters of this corpus, most often in High-piled Combustible Storage (IFC 2009), Aerosols (IFC 2009), Fire Protection Systems (IBC 2009). These pages transcribe the 2009 model text; verify the definition against the edition and amendments your authority having jurisdiction has adopted. Record the jurisdiction, the adopted edition, the application date and any local amendment that rewrites the definition before you use it on a live project, because a term redefined by amendment changes every requirement that depends on it.
Content and cited inputs reviewed by Scott Barrington, Harth founder and architectural technology specialist · Published 2026-09-07 · Updated 2026-09-07.
What does this term mean?
Array — IFC 2009, High-piled Combustible Storage:
The configuration of storage. Characteristics considered in defining an array include the type of packaging, flue spaces, height of storage and compactness of storage.
What must be verified before using this guidance?
Array is defined once in this corpus, in the High-piled Combustible Storage chapter of the International Fire Code (IFC) 2009:
The configuration of storage. Characteristics considered in defining an array include the type of packaging, flue spaces, height of storage and compactness of storage.
Where array is used in the code
The term appears in 6 chapters of the 2009 I-Codes hosted here. The chapters that lean on it hardest are the ones to read next.
| Chapter | Code | Mentions |
|---|---|---|
| High-piled Combustible Storage | IFC 2009 | 10 |
| Aerosols | IFC 2009 | 6 |
| Fire Protection Systems | IBC 2009 | 3 |
| Fire Protection Systems | IFC 2009 | 3 |
| Definitions | IFC 2009 | 2 |
| Solar Systems | IMC 2009 | 2 |
The term in use
How the code actually writes about array, quoted from the 2009 text hosted here:
Where an automatic sprinkler system design utilizes protection based on a closed array, array clearances shall be provided and maintained as specified by the standard used.
Level 2 and 3 aerosol containers shall not be stacked more than 6 feet (1829 mm) high from the base of the aerosol array to the top of the aerosol array unless the containers are placed on fixed shelving or otherwise secured in an approved manner.
When mounted on or above the roof covering, the collector array and supporting construction shall be constructed of noncombustible materials or fire-retardant-treated wood conforming to the International Building Code to the extent required for the type of roof construction of the building to which the collectors are accessory.
Array: what to open, and in what order
Every row is a document this term depends on. The ICC code library and the ICC adoption maps cover the middle rows.
| Check | Where | Confirmed |
|---|---|---|
| Read the definition in the adopted IFC | High-piled Combustible Storage | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | High-piled Combustible Storage (IFC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Aerosols (IFC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Fire Protection Systems (IBC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Fire Protection Systems (IFC 2009) | |
| Local amendment to any of the above | Jurisdiction's amendment list |
A research aid, not a code determination. The authority having jurisdiction decides which edition and which amendments apply.
Where can you explore related guidance?
- Explore all glossary guidance
- High-piled Combustible Storage: Building Code Definition
- Draft Curtain: Building Code Definition
- Commodity: Building Code Definition
- Early Suppression Fast-response (ESFR) Sprinkler: Building Code Definition
Sources and method
Definitions quoted from the 2009 International Codes as transcribed in this site's building-codes collection, with the source chapter linked for each quotation. Usage counts are computed over the chapters hosted here, one copy per code. The ICC code library publishes the current model text and the ICC adoption maps show which edition a jurisdiction has adopted; those sources control.
Source links
Frequently asked questions
What is the code definition of array?
The International Fire Code (IFC) 2009 defines it in High-piled Combustible Storage as: “The configuration of storage. Characteristics considered in defining an array include the type of packaging, flue spaces, height of storage and compactness of storage.” The 2009 model text is reproduced here; the definition that binds your project is the one in the edition your jurisdiction has adopted, as amended locally.
Which parts of the code depend on array?
In this corpus the term is used across 6 chapters, led by High-piled Combustible Storage in the IFC 2009. Those are the sections whose scope moves if the definition is amended locally, so read them together with Chapter 2 rather than on their own.
What is the definition of array?
In the 2009 I-Codes hosted here it is a defined term rather than a description. The IFC 2009 states, in High-piled Combustible Storage: “The configuration of storage. Characteristics considered in defining an array include the type of packaging, flue spaces, height of storage and compactness of storage.” It is defined in IFC 2009. Because it is a defined term, whatever the adopted edition says it means is what every section using it means — so check Chapter 2 of that edition and any local amendment before relying on this wording.
Related pages
- Area, Building: Building Code Definition
Area, Building — IBC 2009 definition: The area included within surrounding exterior walls (or exterior walls and fire walls) exclusive of vent …
- Area Drain: Building Code Definition
Area Drain — IPC 2009 definition: A receptacle designed to collect surface or storm water from an open area.
- Area OF Refuge: Building Code Definition
Area OF Refuge — IBC 2009 definition: An area where persons unable to use stairways can remain temporarily to await instructions or assistance …
- Aspect Ratio: Building Code Definition
Aspect Ratio — IRC 2009 definition: The ratio of longest to shortest perpendicular dimensions, or for wall sections, the ratio of height …
- ASTM D 2855: Building Code Definition
ASTM D 2855 — IPC 2009 definition: Solvent-cement joints shall be permitted above or below ground.
- Atmospheric Pressure: Building Code Definition
Atmospheric Pressure — IRC 2009 definition: The pressure of the weight of air and water vapor on the surface of the earth …