Chapter 1
Scope and Administration
Chapter 1 establishes what the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) covers, who enforces it, and the procedural framework for permits, inspections, and appeals. Understanding this chapter is essential for knowing the boundaries of the code and how it is applied.
Purpose and Scope (§101–102)
The IFGC establishes minimum requirements for safety, health, property protection, and general welfare. It governs the installation of fuel-gas piping systems, appliances, and gas-fired equipment in buildings and structures.
- Natural gas piping systems operating at 125 psig (862 kPa gauge) or less.
- LP-gas piping systems operating at 20 psig (140 kPa gauge) or less.
- Gas-fired appliances and equipment regulated by the code.
Not covered: fuel gas piping in power plants and atomic energy plants. Where the code specifies different requirements for existing versus new installations, the more restrictive requirement governs (§102).
Administration and Code Official (§103–105)
The code creates a department responsible for the implementation, administration, and enforcement of its provisions (§103). The code official heads this function and has broad authority to carry it out.
- Code official may enter any building or premises at reasonable times to inspect (§104).
- Modifications to code provisions may be granted for individual cases when practical difficulties exist, provided the intent of the code is met (§105).
- Modifications must not reduce safety, health, or fire protection below what the code requires.
Permits and Fees (§106, §109, §111)
A permit is required before beginning work regulated by the code. Key rules:
- Emergency appliance and equipment replacements or repairs do not require a permit beforehand (§106).
- A permit is not valid until the prescribed fees have been paid (§109).
- Permits for temporary equipment or systems may be issued for a maximum of 180 days (§111).
Construction Documents and Inspections (§107–108, §112)
- Construction documents, engineering calculations, diagrams, and other data must be submitted in two or more sets or as a single digital copy (§107).
- A Notice of Approval may be revoked if it was issued in error, based on incorrect information, or if the installation no longer complies with the code (§108).
- The permit holder is responsible for providing access to work required by the code for inspection purposes (§112).
Temporary Connections and Enforcement Actions (§110, §115–116)
- Code official may authorize temporary connection to a utility system for testing or under a temporary approval (§110).
- A person shall not make energy source connections to an installation that has been ordered disconnected or where a notice of violation has been posted (§115).
- A stop work order may be issued without prior written notice in an emergency (§116).
Board of Appeals (§113–114)
The code establishes a Board of Appeals to provide due process for those affected by code official decisions.
- The board hears and decides appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations made by the code official (§113).
- Each board member serves a 5-year term (§114).