Building Codes

Structures are required to be built according to the building code that is in effect for the jurisdiction that they are built in. Most (if not all) states base their building code upon a nationally-recognized building code such as the International Building Code (IBC), the Uniform Building Code (UBC) or the Building Construction and Safety Code Handbook (NFPA 5000). Often times, they will add their own amendments and call it the state building code.

For example, the current building code in California is the California Building Code. It is actually the Uniform Building Code with California-specific amendments.

The International Code Council website has a page illustrating the current adoptions of the International Building Code by state and jurisdiction.

The aforementioned building codes can be purchased through many sources on the internet including the International Code Council, Amazon.com and the National Fire Protection Agency.

It is strongly recommended that the contractor responsible for the construction of your project have a copy of the applicable building code on site during construction activities and be familiar with its provisions.