The Answer is Six Feet
(well it depends)
The International Building Code regulates combustible storage in section 413 of the 2006 edition. The 
section requires that high piled stock or storage in any occupancy group shall comply with the International Fire Code. The section also provides clarification on combustible storage in under-floor and concealed spaces (see section 413.2 for more clarification). Chapter 23 provides guidance for protection of life from hazards associated from high pile storage.
As the user traverses codes to the IFC 2006, you will find a detailed chapter 23 which provides requirements on the configuration, height of storage and additional requirements which are triggered based on the area of storage. The “other requirements” may include an automatic sprinkler system, automatic detection system, smoke/heat venting or additional exterior doors.
“High Piled Storage” is defined in IFC 2302 as:
“Storage of combustible materials in closely packed piles or combustible materials on pallets, in racks or on shelves where the top of storage is greater than 12 feet (3658 mm) in height.” When required by the fire code official, high-piled combustible storage also includes certain high-hazard commodities, such as rubber tires, Group A plastics, flammable liquids, idle pallets and similar commodities, where the top of storage is greater than 6 feet (1829 mm) in height.
This definition provides the [click to continue…]
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