Building Code Glossary
Pier: Building Code Definition
How the IFC 2009 define pier, 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
Pier is a defined term in the International Fire Code (IFC) 2009, in Marinas. The code's own words are: “A structure built over the water, supported by pillars or piles, and used as a landing place, pleasure pavilion or similar purpose.” 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 20 chapters of this corpus, most often in Concrete (IBC 2009), Soils and Foundations (IBC 2009), Foundations (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?
Pier — IFC 2009, Marinas:
A structure built over the water, supported by pillars or piles, and used as a landing place, pleasure pavilion or similar purpose.
What must be verified before using this guidance?
Pier is defined once in this corpus, in the Marinas chapter of the International Fire Code (IFC) 2009:
A structure built over the water, supported by pillars or piles, and used as a landing place, pleasure pavilion or similar purpose.
Where pier is used in the code
The term appears in 20 chapters of the 2009 I-Codes hosted here. The chapters that lean on it hardest are the ones to read next.
| Chapter | Code | Mentions |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete | IBC 2009 | 49 |
| Soils and Foundations | IBC 2009 | 24 |
| Foundations | IRC 2009 | 20 |
| Marinas | IFC 2009 | 15 |
| Motor Fuel-dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages | IFC 2009 | 15 |
| Wall Construction | IRC 2009 | 11 |
| Masonry | IBC 2009 | 10 |
| Wood | IBC 2009 | 6 |
| Building Planning | IRC 2009 | 6 |
| Flammable and Combustible Liquids | IFC 2009 | 4 |
| Means of Egress | IBC 2009 | 3 |
| Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy | IBC 2009 | 3 |
8 further chapters mention the term.
The term in use
How the code actually writes about pier, quoted from the 2009 text hosted here:
Transverse reinforcement shall be extended beyond the pier clear height for at least 12 inches (305 mm).
Mansonry-unit footings shall be laid in Type M or S mortar complying with Section 2103.8 and the depth shall not be less than twice the projection beyond the wall, pier or column.
Open-flame devices used for lighting or decoration on the exterior of a vessel, float, pier or wharf shall be approved.
The terms pier 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 pier covers:
- Structure — IPC 2009: That which is built or constructed or a portion thereof.
Pier: 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 | Marinas | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Concrete (IBC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Soils and Foundations (IBC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Foundations (IRC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Marinas (IFC 2009) | |
| Confirm the dependent definition | Structure | |
| 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
- Structure: Building Code Definition
- Vessel: Building Code Definition
- Float: Building Code Definition
- Marina: 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 pier?
The International Fire Code (IFC) 2009 defines it in Marinas as: “A structure built over the water, supported by pillars or piles, and used as a landing place, pleasure pavilion or similar purpose.” 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 pier?
In this corpus the term is used across 20 chapters, led by Concrete in the IBC 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 pier in construction?
In the 2009 I-Codes hosted here it is a defined term rather than a description. The IFC 2009 states, in Marinas: “A structure built over the water, supported by pillars or piles, and used as a landing place, pleasure pavilion or similar purpose.” 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.
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