The 1996 Cork Intermediate Hurling Championship was the 87th staging of the Cork Intermediate Hurling Championship since its establishment by the Cork County Board in 1909. The draw for the opening fixtures took place on 10 December 1995. The championship began on 15 June 1996 and ended on 3 November 1996.
On 3 November 1996, Newtownshandrum won the championship after a 0-12 to 0-09 defeat of Cloyne in a final replay at Páirc UàChaoimh. It was their fourth championship title overall and their first title since 1981.
Newtownshandrum's Ben O'Connor was the championship's top scorer with 3-33.
Promoted to the Cork Senior Hurling Championship
Regraded to the East Cork Junior A Hurling Championship
Regraded to the City Junior A Hurling Championship
Promoted from the Cork Junior Hurling Championship