Building Code Changes

Thanks to new inventions, innovation, research and continuous testing for building materials and methods, building codes must be revised on a regular basis. These changes are usually every three years, but most building departments adopt code changes every 6 years. There are several governing bodies that decide what is being changed and subsequently administer these changes, they include the International Code Council (ICC) which includes the International Residential Code (IRC), Uniform Building Code (UBC) and other codes governing plumbing and electrical. These changes are documented in new code editions named for the creation date. In northern Nevada the 2018 editions are being used. Most projects built by Zion Builders, Inc., decks, patio covers and framing, use the IRC and UBC.

Knowing this underpins the importance for builders to stay aware of changes and new codes editions. Northern Nevada building departments have recently chosen to stop using the 2018 editions and have started to enforce the following editions beginning Jan. 1, 2026:

·        2024 International Building Code (IBC)

·        2024 Northern Nevada ICC Amendments

·        2023 National Electrical Code (NEC)

·        2024 Uniform Mechanical and Plumbing Codes

In addition to that mound of new codes, specific Nevada counties have their own specific amendments to these codes.

The adoption of new code editions is not taken lightly because many codes are about safety rules and regulations. Code adoption is a lengthy and painstaking process, and it gives individual jurisdictions a chance to adapt and revise codes to make them better suited to regional conditions. These are called Amendments. In northern Nevada, amendments are made for wind loads, snow loads, earthquake potential, and perhaps most importantly, wildfire danger, as well as other things that we must plan for in our building designs.

Zion Builders, Inc. has asked me to monitor code changes and keep track of new code editions. I will be incorporating these changes into my future project designs. I will also make sure our aluminum patio cover suppliers provide me with updated engineering that complies with the new codes. This will help keep Zion Builders, Inc. on the cutting edge of advancements in building materials and methods. Please feel free to ask us if and how these changes will affect your dream project!

Zion Builders, Inc. cares about code compliance for built-right structures that stand the test of time for reliability, health and safety.

Bob Smith has spent countless hours peering into code books to ensure compliance for all building projects he oversees.

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