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IRC Section M1702 — Wood-Fired Appliances

Updated Apr 3, 2026

Addresses safe installation of wood stoves and fireplace inserts.

Section M1702 specifies that wood stoves must be listed and installed per manufacturer instructions. Clearance to combustible materials must be maintained, typically 36 inches from the back and sides and 48 inches from the front. Hearth extension protects floor from embers, typically 16 inches in front and 8 inches to sides. Chimneys must extend above roof 3 feet and 2 feet above any roof or wall within 10 feet. Wooden framing penetrations by the chimney must be protected with 2 inches of noncombustible material.

TAGS

irc wood-stoves combustion-safety

DETAILS

section

M1702

category

Mechanical Systems

code body

IRC

code year

2021

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