Building Codes

Purpose

A building code is a set of rules that specify the minimum acceptable level of safety for constructed objects such as buildings and nonbuilding structures. The main purpose of building codes is to protect public health, safety, and general welfare as they relate to the construction and occupancy of buildings and structures. Building codes become law when they are formally enacted by the City Council.

Scope

Building codes generally include, but are not limited to, the following components:

  • Rules regarding parking and traffic impact
  • Fire code rules to ensure safe evacuation in the event of a fire
  • Requirements for earthquake, tornado, flood and other natural disaster resistance, especially in disaster prone areas or for very large buildings where a failure would be catastrophic
  • Water drainage and run-off
  • Requirements for specific building uses (i.e. storage of flammable substances, number of persons allowed to reside a dwelling, etc.)
  • Allowable installation methodologies (i.e. electrical, plumbing, HVAC)
  • Minimum and maximum room and exit sizes and location
  • Qualification of individuals or companies doing the work

Codes Enforced

The City Council, with passage of Ordinance 2021-8, adopted the 2018 versions of the building codes from the International Code Council. An exception to this is the electrical code, which is adopted from the National Fire Protection Agency and the City Council has adopted the 2017 version of the electrical code.

Current Enforced Codes

  • 2018 International Building Code
  • 2018 International Energy Conservation Code
  • 2018 International Mechanical Code
  • 2018 International Plumbing Code
  • 2018 International Property Maintenance Code
  • 2018 International Residential Code
  • 2017 National Electric Code

A copy of the above codes is kept in the Building Inspector’s office at 306 Pearl Street and can be viewed at any time during normal business hours. A second copy of the codes are also kept at the Wayne Public Library for viewing. Personal copies of building codes can be purchased through the International Code Council and a copy of the electrical code can be purchased through the National Fire Protection Agency.

The Building Inspector is given the authority to enforce these codes through interpretation and through adoption of various policies and procedures to help better clarify the codes.