Building Code Adoption

Code Adoption Overview

Over the next several months we will be presenting our recommendations for updating the current building codes. Currently we are operating under the 2000 set of International Codes which includes Building, Residential, Fire, Plumbing, Mechanical, Fuel Gas Code, and the 1999 NEC. We will be recommending, with amendments, the adoption of the 2006 set of International Codes.

The proposed schedule for presenting the code adoptions is as follows:

July 16, 2007 Adoption of the 2006 International Building Code, 2006 International Residential Code, and the 2006 International Fire Code.

August 20, 2007 Adoption of the 2006 International Mechanical Code, 2006 International Plumbing Code, 2006 International Electrical Code, Administrative Provisions and the 2006 International Fuel Gas Code.

September 17, 2007 Adoption of the 2006 International Existing Building Code, and the 2006 International Property Maintenance Code.

We would propose that the adoption of these codes become effective January 1, 2008. This will allow some time for builders, developers, and designers to get acquainted with the adopted codes and to allow projects that have already been submitted or are under the plan development stages to be completed under our current set of codes.

The International Codes are Updated and Revised on a three (3) year schedule. The International Code Council has a lengthy process in reviewing proposed code changes for suitability with existing codes, economic impact to builders and home owners, and legal standing of the code amendments. The International Codes have been adopted by 9500+ jurisdictions, including 107 jurisdictions in Missouri. The majority of the jurisdictions, have, or are in the process of adopting the 2006 set of International Codes.

Primarily what comes from the review process are clarifications on interpretations of code sections, corrections to errors in the wording of code, changes to the code to allow...