Nonbuilding structures, also referred to simply as structures, are those not designed for continuous human occupancy. The term is used by architects and civil engineers to distinctly identify structures that are not buildings.

Examples of nonbuilding structures:

• Bridges and bridge-like structures (aqueducts, overpasses, trestles, viaducts, etc.)
• Building canopies
• Chimneys and smokestacks
• Dams
• Electric power transmission towers
• Ferris wheels and observation wheels
• Parking structures
• Offshore oil platforms (except for the production and housing facilities)
• Piers
• Roller coasters
• Structures designed to support, contain or convey liquid or gaseous matter, including
  • Cooling towers
  • Pipelines
  • Distillation equipment and structural supports at chemical and petrochemical plants and oil refineries
  • Storage tanks
• Television and radio masts and towers
• Tunnels
• Wharves

Exceptions

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Some structures that are occupied periodically and would otherwise be considered nonbuilding structures are categorized as "buildings" for fire and life safety purposes:

• Aviation control towers
• Factories
• Kiosks
• Lighthouses
• Power stations
• Refineries
• Vehicles such as watercraft and aircraft
• Warehouses

See also

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• Building
• Fire safety
• Hyperboloid structure

Buildings and structures | Rakennelma