Code Adoption Resources
Access the latest tools and information about Code Adoptions through the International Code Council. There are sample ordinances, a map with contact info of people who can assist and answer questions and FAQs.
Submit or update International Code Adoptions information for your jurisdiction.
Code Adoption Toolkit
The Code Adoption Toolkit contains briefing papers on technical issues, samples of ordinances, endorsements and support materials from national organizations in pdf format. If you have any comments or suggestions on the Toolkit submit them to Lesley Garland.
- What is the International Code Council?
- Codes Save
- Building Codes Ensure Affordable Housing
- Community Safety and Recovery Resources
- Resiliency
- ICC's Code Development
- Code Officials: Building Safety Today for Stronger Tomorrow
- Why Should the Public Care About Codes and Standards
- Why Choose the I-Codes
- Policy on Amendments to ICC Codes and Standards
- California Code Adoption Resources
- A Statement On Code Adoption from the International Code Council
- Understanding the Importance of Copywriting on Standards in Regulations
- Principles for Federal Engagement in Standards Activities to Address National Priorities
- Federal Engagement in Standards Activities to Address National Priorities (Background and Proposed Policy Recommendations)
Sample Adoption Ordinances
Click here to view/download sample adoption ordinances in Word and PDF fomats.
Who to Call
The Who To Call map contains links by state to ICC offices and staff members across the country who can assist with code adoption efforts and answer questions about our products and services.
Adoption of International Code Council Codes and Standards: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The International Code Council makes its model codes and standards (collectively known as “codes”) available for use by both the public and private sectors. The codes are updated regularly through a consensus process to ensure that they reflect the latest advances in knowledge and technology related to the field of building safety.
If a governmental agency or authority having jurisdiction over code adoption (AHJ) wishes to adopt a model code for legislative or regulatory purposes, it should enact an ordinance, regulation or law (collectively “law”) to incorporate by reference (IBR) the relevant code. The enacting law should also include the full text of any changes or amendments enacted by the legislative body of the AHJ.
The following FAQs provide additional information about the adoption of model codes by jurisdictions. The Code Council has an extensive support network of experts to help AHJs adopt or update their codes in addition to information on funding that may be available to offset the cost of code development, adoption and implementation, including training.