NAVIGATING BUILDING CODES: WHERE TO START
Building codes are much more than guidelines. They are requirements meant to ensure the safety, health, and general welfare of the public as related to construction and occupation of a building. Becoming familiar with them should be the first step you take in planning your projects. WHERE TO FIND THE BUILDING CODES Most states and municipalities use code put together by the International Code Council (ICC) as the basis for their local building codes, either as written or in modification. So becoming familiar with the basic International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), and the International Fire Code (IFC) is a good place to start. These documents can be purchased from the ICC but if that stretches your budget you may be able to find copies in the local library for an overview. You should also consult with the local code officials who will have the most up-to-date information for the municipality, especially any modifications made to the ICC’s original ...