The Kentucky building code has several special exceptions to the IBC that allow for larger rickhouses for storing barrels filled with alcohol. This is in consideration of the history of Rickhouses in the area. Under the IBC, these structures would be too large to be built out of wood and be unsprinklered. The Kentucky codes provides exceptions for this, given that other factors of safety are implemented instead. Here we summarize these exceptions:
All the KY building code exceptions for rickhouses are found in Section 430, Barreled Spirit Storage Buildings. It is important to note that this section does not negate any other requirements found in other parts of the code for flammable liquid, unless it explicitly says so. This is not a full list of all the requirements found in this section, but a highlight of the most influential requirements as applicable to rickhouses. This article refers to 2018 edition of the KY building code and IBC.
430.2 – This Section allows these buildings to be built of any material regardless if sprinklered or not. Typically, a Rickhouse is constructed entirely of wood.
430.2.2 This section exempts these buildings from seismic design requirements found in the IBC
430.3 Allows for a 20,000 SF rickhouse if non sprinklered, and 40,000 sf rickhouse if sprinklered. By the way, the code uses the terms “rack supported structure”. Normally, under the IBC, the allowable area would be ~5,000 sf for this occupancy.
430.4 Allows for 60 ft height in a sprinklered rickhouse or 55 in non sprinklered. Normally, under the IBC, height would be limited to 40 ft and would not be allowed unsprinklered.
430.5 This section implements an additional layer of safety in lieu of other exceptions it provides. It requires 100 ft separation for sprinklered and 200 ft separation for non-sprinklered from other buildings and property lines. This is a much larger setback then would normally be required in the IBC.
430.6 This section requires trenches or earthen dykes to surround the building in case of a spill. It must account for all the liquid in the building, plus 20 minutes sprinkler water if applicable. This is another measure of safety that is added in exchange for the other exceptions like increased height, area, etc. It considers that if this building is to burn down, it should not endanger surrounding buildings and be able to be more easily controlled from spreading. Past rickhouse fire disasters (Heaven Hill Fire) have occurred where alcohol was on fire and caught surrounding buildings on fire. Some projects will also use grading and pond to account for this containment requirement. Containment is not required under normal IBC for barrel storage.
430.7 Allows for for 5 mezzanine levels in non sprinklered rickhouses and 6 mezzanine levels in sprinklered. Normally under IBC these levels would be too large to be considered mezzanines and you’d only be allowed to have 1 level of this H-3 occupancy in a wood building (type V-B construction).
430.9.5 Allows for non illuminated exit signs. This is because many of these buildings do not have electricity. Normally, under IBC exit signs would be required to be illuminated.
Whether you are in Kentucky or not, as a distillery architect, we have presented these code requirements to local authorities to accept a rickhouse design in their jurisdiction. Only in KY is it adopted code, so everywhere else would require a special exception.
Article Written By: Matthew Taylor-Rennert
