Initial Adoption

Module I-Getting Started/First Steps to Immediate IECC Benefits

Initial building code adoption/administration tools

Most jurisdictions in the United States choose to protect the safety and health of their citizens and visitors in the built environment through adoption and enforcement of model codes which include building, fire, plumbing, mechanical and other nationally recognized codes and standards. The International Codes are the most widely adopted and enforced building safety codes in the United States and reflect a minimum standard developed by a broad stakeholder group through a governmental consensus process. These codes, which reflect the accepted societal minimum for safety and health in the U. S., are now being embraced by the international community. Adopting jurisdictions usually become governmental members of ICC and enjoy a complete framework of support for effective code administration. ICC members, ICC Chapters and ICC Certified Professionals stand ready to assist you in taking these important first steps.

Benefits of National Model Code Adoption

Provides a solid, nationally recognized foundation to ensure the safety and health of building occupants
Helps to protect owners of buildings from unexpected design and construction defects
Places the jurisdiction in a better position of risk management in terms of adopting a nationally developed and utilized minimum standard of care
Provides a network of ICC Members and Certified Professionals at a local, state and national level
The Colorado Chapter of ICC coordinates very closely with three additional ICC chapters in the state providing an invaluable networking resource
Resource links

Best Practice and Implementation Plan Suggestions

Thousands of smaller jurisdictions across the United States have successfully navigated the process of adopting model building and safety codes and have established effective code administration programs. Your jurisdiction can accomplish this same goal by employing the best practices and implementation steps listed below.

Best Practices

Make the decision to move forward
Almost every jurisdiction nationally that adopts an energy code also has adopted building and safety codes in effect. These codes complement each other
Make the commitment to adopt current building, safety and energy codes
Keep local amendments to the adopted codes at a minimum
Implement an effective code administration program
Develop a permit fee structure. Fees for the permit services provided, pay for operating costs
Resource links

Implementation Plan Suggestions

Take one step at a time
Benchmark with similar Colorado jurisdictions that have adopted codes
Utilize assistance from the experienced resources listed in this tool kit
Examine case studies of code adoption and code administration practices in Colorado
Empower a public stakeholder adoption committee with jurisdictional staff guidance
Gain public support through educational seminars, public hearings and workshops
Evaluate needs and local resources available
Explore code administration options, i.e.; hire a part time employee, employ a code official with broad experience and expertise, contract with a third party company, utilize IGAs, take a regional approach, etc.
Consult with your jurisdiction's legal counsel
Develop a basic implementation plan for adoption and administration that makes sense
Gain approval from the governing body or bodies to proceed
Do it
Resource links