A building code is a set of rules that specify the minimum acceptable level of safety for constructed objects such as buildings and non-building structures. The main purpose of building codes are to protect public health, safety and general welfare as they relate to the construction and occupancy of buildings and structures. The building code becomes law of a particular jurisdiction when formally enacted by the appropriate authority.

Below are the current  codes that apply to buildings and property in the District of Columbia. 

The District of Columbia adopts the International Codes (I-Codes) published by the International Code Council (ICC), and the National Electric Code (NEC) published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), subject to any changes, deletions and/or additions to the I-Codes or the NEC as set forth in Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR). The District of Columbia has adopted the 2006 I-Codes and NFPA’s 2005 NEC.

The I-Codes are a complete set of comprehensive, coordinated building safety and fire prevention codes that have been adopted in fifty states and the District of Columbia. For further information about the ICC and its code development process, please refer to the ICC’s website at www.iccsafe.org.

Most codes are copyrighted by the authoritative body. We have links to all codes publicly available and links to where codes can be purchased.

Construction Codes and Regulations

• 2005 National Electric Code
• 2006 International Building Code
• 2006 International Energy Conservation Code
• 2006 International Fire Prevention Code
• 2006 International Fuel Gas Code
• 2006 International Mechanical Code
• 2006 International Plumbing Code
• 2006 International Residential Code
• DC Law 8-36 District of Columbia Environmental Policy Act of 1989
• DCMR 12 Building Code Regulations (2008)
• DCMR Title 11 - Zoning Regulations
• Green Building Act of 2006