The ICBO Uniform Building Code, which is based on the 1989 MEC, may be adopted and enforced by local jurisdictions. The energy provisions contained in Appendix Chapter 53 of the Uniform Building Code are recommended statewide minimums that local jurisdictions may, but are not required to, adopt and enforce. Code provisions may be modified by the local enforcement community without state approval to be more restrictive than the Chapter 53 requirements. The state recommends compliance with the energy codes for all buildings. Changes approved by the council are then adopted at the annual September meeting and become effective in January of the following year.
Local adoption is required before energy provisions can be enforced.
Compliance is determined by plan review and inspection by local code officials in jurisdictions that have adopted energy provisions as a part of their building code. Towns and counties that are established as local enforcement may, but are not required to, enforce an energy code at the local level. As part of their normal building inspection process, the enforcement agency performs field inspections in these towns and counties. The 1976 edition of the Uniform Codes was adopted in 1977. Prior to 1977, the State Fire Marshal's Office adopted and enforced the National Fire Prevention Agency standards.