Note The library cannot tell you which code applies to your specific project.
Texas statutes, administrative rules, and local ordinances sometimes adopt a specific version of a building or technical code.
This page lists some Texas laws that adopt commonly used building codes like the International Residential Code or the International Building Code.
Usually on the publisher's website. These codes are published by independent organizations like the International Code Council and the National Fire Protection Association.
Your local government's website might also have a copy of the version used in their area.
Even though they are incorporated as law, building codes are not reprinted within the law itself. Instead, they are "adopted by reference."
This means that the law will name the code and its publisher, but you must access the code itself elsewhere.
Requirements in your city or county may be different than the version adopted by state law.
In many cases, state law allows local officials to adopt a more recent edition of a statewide building code.
Ask your local building or code enforcement department for help determining which codes are relevant to your specific project.
State law adopts a minimum residential code requirement for all cities and some unincorporated areas of Texas. These laws adopt the International Residential Code from the International Code Council.
The law allows local governments in these areas to adopt later versions of the codes.
Ask your local code department for help with codes that apply to your project.
State law adopts a minimum commercial code requirement for all cities in Texas. These laws and rules adopt the International Building Code from the International Code Council.
The law allows local governments to adopt later versions of the codes for their areas.
Ask your local code department for help with codes that apply to your project.
State law adopts a minimum electrical code requirement for Texas. These laws and rules adopt the National Electrical Code from the National Fire Protection Association.
The laws allow local governments to adopt later versions of the codes for their areas.
Ask your local code department for help with codes that apply to your project.
State law sets out minimum fire code requirements in some situations in Texas. These laws and rules adopt:
The laws allow local governments in certain areas to adopt later versions of the codes.
Ask your local code department for help with codes that apply to your project.
Licensed contractors in Texas must follow certain HVAC & refrigeration codes from the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials and the International Code Council:
The law allows the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation to update code requirements. Your city may also have requirements that apply in your area.
Ask your local code department for help with codes that apply to your project.
Licensed plumbers in Texas must follow certain plumbing codes:
The law also allows the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to adopt later versions of the codes. Your city may also have requirements that apply in your area.
Ask your local code department for help with codes that apply to your project.
State law adopts a minimum code requirement for swimming pools and spas in all cities in Texas. These laws and rules adopt the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code from the International Code Council.
The laws allow local governments in these areas to adopt later versions of the code.
Ask your local code department for help with codes that apply to your project.
Note The library cannot tell you which code applies to a specific project.