2021 ICC Code Adoption

Overview

The City of New Braunfels is working to update all of our building and construction related codes to the most recently developed 2021 International Code Council (ICC) editions. As an example, the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) was originally published in October of 2020. The City of New Braunfels is still under the 2018 IBC, published in August of 2017. The ICC codes are model codes that provide for a set of minimum requirements for building design, construction and operation to protect the public health, safety, and the natural resources that sustain us.  Building codes offer protection against the threats of natural disasters and weather changes to make our communities more resilient, sustainable, and livable for generations to come.  The development of these codes at the national level is unique in the way it brings together interested parties to participate and decide what is needed and feasible for the construction of new buildings.

Code Adoption Timeline

Every three years code professionals, designers, building officials, builders, and material suppliers work together to assess the technology landscape and consumer demand, and democratically create a model code that applies innovation gradually across the building sector, reducing risk for individual builders, contractors, and owners. However, model codes are effective only if they are enacted into law and enforced by state and local governments. Updated model codes benefit the communities that use them.  Ultimately, jurisdictions that choose to enforce the most current codes demonstrate that they are forward thinking and open to change that improves lives.  

For more information on the value and impact of Building Codes, please visit the Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) website.

What's Next?

The Building Safety Division of Planning and Development Services will be working with area stakeholders, a technical advisory committee, other City departments and our City council to adopt the most current 2021 Building and Fire Codes. This effort will take several months with the hope of completion of a final draft of the adopting ordinance and list of proposed amendments to be submitted to Council for approval before the end of the year. Your participation and feedback on this process are welcomed. Join us in public meetings or by submitting ideas as we work to continue to make our built environment safe and sustainable for future generations in New Braunfels!

Questions?

Any questions concerning the new building codes should be directed to the Building Safety Division at (830) 221-4060 or by email at SCain@newbraunfels.gov.