What is the minimum clearance required for any portion of a masonry chimney located in the interior of the building from combustibles?

The minimum clearance required for any portion of a masonry chimney located in the interior of the building from combustibles is 2 inches. This requirement is put in place to ensure safety by reducing the risk of fire hazards that can arise from excessive heat radiating from the chimney to nearby combustible materials.

Masonry chimneys conduct heat, and if they are placed too close to combustible materials such as wood framing, drywall, or insulation, there’s a significant risk of igniting those materials. The 2-inch clearance acts as a buffer, allowing for air circulation around the chimney and reducing the chance of fire incidents.

In building codes and safety regulations, maintaining this distance is critical to protect the overall integrity of the structure and the safety of its occupants. Thus, compliance with the 2-inch clearance requirement aligns with standard construction practices and fire safety protocols.