Building Code Glossary
Connector: Building Code Definition
How the IBC 2009 define connector, 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
Connector is a defined term in the International Building Code (IBC) 2009, in Masonry. The code's own words are: “A mechanical device for securing two or more pieces, parts or members together, including anchors, wall ties and fasteners.” No other I-Code in this corpus defines it, so the IBC 2009 definition is the one to work from. The term is used in 42 chapters of this corpus, most often in Fuel Gas (IRC 2009), Chimneys and Vents (IMC 2009), Chimneys and Vents (IRC 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?
Connector — IBC 2009, Masonry:
A mechanical device for securing two or more pieces, parts or members together, including anchors, wall ties and fasteners.
What must be verified before using this guidance?
Connector is defined once in this corpus, in the Masonry chapter of the International Building Code (IBC) 2009:
A mechanical device for securing two or more pieces, parts or members together, including anchors, wall ties and fasteners.
Where connector is used in the code
The term appears in 42 chapters of the 2009 I-Codes hosted here. The chapters that lean on it hardest are the ones to read next.
| Chapter | Code | Mentions |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Gas | IRC 2009 | 341 |
| Chimneys and Vents | IMC 2009 | 64 |
| Chimneys and Vents | IRC 2009 | 61 |
| Wood | IBC 2009 | 43 |
| Duct Systems | IMC 2009 | 40 |
| Wall Construction | IRC 2009 | 28 |
| Masonry | IBC 2009 | 16 |
| Services | IRC 2009 | 9 |
| General Requirements | IRC 2009 | 8 |
| Roof-ceiling Construction | IRC 2009 | 8 |
| Fire and Smoke Protection Features | IBC 2009 | 7 |
| Definitions | IMC 2009 | 7 |
30 further chapters mention the term.
The term in use
How the code actually writes about connector, quoted from the 2009 text hosted here:
The shutoff valve shall be within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the appliance, and shall be installed upstream of the union, connector or quick disconnect device it serves.
A connector shall extend from the appliance to the flue serving a masonry fireplace such that the flue gases are exhausted directly into the flue.
Devices that obstruct the flow of flue gases shall not be installed in a connector unless listed and labeled or approved for such installations.
The terms connector is built out of
The definition above leans on 1 other defined term. Each carries its own code definition, and a local amendment to any of them changes what connector covers:
- Device — IRC 2009: Aunit of an electrical system that carries or controls electrical energy as it principal function.
Connector: 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 IBC | Masonry | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Fuel Gas (IRC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Chimneys and Vents (IMC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Chimneys and Vents (IRC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Wood (IBC 2009) | |
| Confirm the dependent definition | Device | |
| 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
- Device: Building Code Definition
- Chimney: Building Code Definition
- Tile: Building Code Definition
- Fireplace: 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 connector?
The International Building Code (IBC) 2009 defines it in Masonry as: “A mechanical device for securing two or more pieces, parts or members together, including anchors, wall ties and fasteners.” 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 connector?
In this corpus the term is used across 42 chapters, led by Fuel Gas in the IRC 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 a connector?
In the 2009 I-Codes hosted here it is a defined term rather than a description. The IBC 2009 states, in Masonry: “A mechanical device for securing two or more pieces, parts or members together, including anchors, wall ties and fasteners.” It is defined in IBC 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.
What are the key components of a building code?
Building is a separate defined term. The IBC 2009 defines it as: “Any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy.” That is not the same as connector, which the IBC 2009 defines as “A mechanical device for securing two or more pieces, parts or members together, including anchors, wall ties and fasteners.” — read both before applying either, and confirm the wording in the edition your jurisdiction has adopted.
Related pages
- Conductor: Building Code Definition
Conductor — IPC 2009 definition: A pipe inside the building that conveys storm water from the roof to a storm or …
- Conduit Body: Building Code Definition
Conduit Body — IRC 2009 definition: A separate portion of a conduit or tubing system that provides access through a removable cover(s) …
- Congregate Living Facilities: Building Code Definition
Congregate Living Facilities — IBC 2009 definition: A building or part thereof that contains sleeping units where residents share bathroom and/or kitchen facilities.
- Constantly Attended Location: Building Code Definition
Constantly Attended Location — IBC 2009 definition: A designated location at a facility staffed by trained personnel on a continuous basis where alarm …
- Construction Documents: Building Code Definition
Construction Documents — IBC 2009 definition: Written, graphic and pictorial documents prepared or assembled for describing the design, location and physical characteristics …
- Container: Building Code Definition
Container — IFC 2009 definition: A vessel of 60 gallons (227 L) or less in capacity used for transporting or storing …