Building Code Glossary
Supports: Building Code Definition
How the IRC 2009, IPC 2009 define supports, 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
Supports is a defined term in the International Residential Code (IRC) 2009, in Definitions. The code's own words are: “Devices for supporting, hanging and securing pipes, fixtures and equipment.” The IPC 2009 words it differently, in Definitions: “Devices for supporting and securing pipe, fixtures and equipment.” The IPC 2009 defines the same term with different wording, so the controlling text depends on which code governs the question in front of you — the comparison below sets the versions side by side. The term is used in 51 chapters of this corpus, most often in Wood (IBC 2009), Flammable and Combustible Liquids (IFC 2009), Wall Construction (IRC 2009). These pages transcribe the 2009 model text; verify the definition against the edition and amendments your authority having jurisdiction has adopted.
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?
Supports — IRC 2009, Definitions:
Devices for supporting, hanging and securing pipes, fixtures and equipment.
What must be verified before using this guidance?
Two of the I-Codes in this corpus define Supports, and the wording is not identical — read the version that governs your question.
| Code | Where it is defined | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| IRC 2009 | Definitions | Devices for supporting, hanging and securing pipes, fixtures and equipment. |
| IPC 2009 | Definitions | Devices for supporting and securing pipe, fixtures and equipment. |
Where supports is used in the code
The term appears in 51 chapters of the 2009 I-Codes hosted here. The chapters that lean on it hardest are the ones to read next.
| Chapter | Code | Mentions |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | IBC 2009 | 64 |
| Flammable and Combustible Liquids | IFC 2009 | 45 |
| Wall Construction | IRC 2009 | 22 |
| Floors | IRC 2009 | 21 |
| Foundations | IRC 2009 | 16 |
| Flammable Finishes | IFC 2009 | 15 |
| Exhaust Systems | IMC 2009 | 15 |
| Cryogenic Fluids | IFC 2009 | 14 |
| Masonry | IBC 2009 | 13 |
| Gypsum Board and Plaster | IBC 2009 | 12 |
| Structural Design | IBC 2009 | 11 |
| Roof Assemblies and Rooftop Structures | IBC 2009 | 8 |
39 further chapters mention the term.
The term in use
How the code actually writes about supports, quoted from the 2009 text hosted here:
All pieces shall be supported on their ends (i.e., by two supports).
Where subject to external corrosion, piping, related fluid-handling components and supports for both underground and above-ground applications shall be fabricated from noncorrosive materials, and coated or provided with corrosion protection.
Braced wall panels shall be constructed of sheathing with a thickness of not less than 7/16 inch (11 mm) nailed with 8d common nails spaced 4 inches (102 mm) on center at all panel edges and 12 inches (305 mm) on center at intermediate supports.
The terms supports 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 supports covers:
- Equipment — IRC 2009: All piping, ducts, vents, control devices and other components of systems other than appliances that are permanently installed and integrated to provide control of environmental conditions for buildings.
Supports: 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 IRC | Definitions | |
| Read the definition in the adopted IPC | Definitions | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Wood (IBC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Flammable and Combustible Liquids (IFC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Wall Construction (IRC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Floors (IRC 2009) | |
| Confirm the dependent definition | Equipment | |
| 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
- Equipment: Building Code Definition
- Building: Building Code Definition
- Construction Documents: Building Code Definition
- Registered Design Professional: 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 supports?
The International Residential Code (IRC) 2009 defines it in Definitions as: “Devices for supporting, hanging and securing pipes, fixtures and equipment.” 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 supports?
In this corpus the term is used across 51 chapters, led by Wood 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 support structure of a building called?
Structure is a separate defined term. The IPC 2009 defines it as: “That which is built or constructed or a portion thereof.” That is not the same as supports, which the IRC 2009 defines as “Devices for supporting, hanging and securing pipes, fixtures and equipment.” — read both before applying either, and confirm the wording in the edition your jurisdiction has adopted.
What is the IRC 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 supports, which the IRC 2009 defines as “Devices for supporting, hanging and securing pipes, fixtures and equipment.” — read both before applying either, and confirm the wording in the edition your jurisdiction has adopted.
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