Recently, many of APGA’s members have joined the International Code Council (ICC) as a Governmental Member. As a Governmental Member, systems have the ability to vote on final actions. These actions are how the next iteration of ICC codes will be determined. On August 19, APGA hosted a special webinar on registering voting representatives for the 2016 building code amendment cycle. Jason Stanek from Metropolitan Utilities District in Omaha was able to walk everyone through the registration process as well as give a broad overview of the ICC website and voting process.
The ICC develops the International Green Construction Code (IgCC), the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) and the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) as well as many other codes. The ICC is the main source of standards for the residential construction segment and they impact how, where and when natural gas can be used in a home or business. An overwhelming majority of state and local jurisdictions already use some version of the Code Council’s model codes.
Different advocacy groups are beginning to rally their supporters. Recently, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) has begun to encourage state affiliates and like-minded code officials to get involved. In this code cycle, the direct-use of natural gas may face multiple proposals that could try to eliminate or severely limit its use in homes.
Now more than ever, APGA members need to participate in the development of the model building codes that form the basis of construction regulations across the country.
For questions on this article, please contact Dan Lapato of APGA staff by phone at 202-464-2742 or by email at
dlapato@apga.org.