Codes & Standards

All jurisdictions in the Commonwealth of Virginia enforce the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) 2018 edition effective July 1, 2021; which amends the 2018 International Coe Council model codes.  Applicants have the option to apply for permits using the 2015 USBC until July 1, 2022.

• 2018 Virginia Construction Code
• 2018 Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code
• 2018 Virginia Plumbing Code
• 2018 Virginia Mechanical Code
• 2018 Virginia Fuel gas Code
• 2018 Virginia Energy Conservation Code
• 2018 Existing Building Code
• 2018 Virginia Residential Code
• 2018 Virginia Property Maintenance Code

The model codes and supplements listed below may be purchased directly from the International Code Council (ICC). The ICC model codes referenced in the USBC are as follows:

• 2017 National Electrical Code (NFPA 70)
• 2018 ICC International Building Code
• 2018 ICC International Energy Conservation Code
• 2018 ICC International Existing Buildings Code
• 2018 ICC International Fire Code
• 2018 ICC International Fuel Gas Code
• 2018 ICC International Mechanical Code
• 2018 ICC International Plumbing Code
• 2018 ICC International Residential Code
• 2016 National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72)
• 2016 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems (NFPA 13)

Amendments

The USBC parts one and two have administrative provisions that replace chapter one of the model codes referenced and they provide state technical amendments to the referenced model codes. Jurisdictions may not make further amendments to the USBC.

Further standards are referenced in the codes above for various aspects of design. Note that the state may adopt code editions other than those listed in Chapter 35 of the IBC.