Reference Library

Building Codes

• State Building Code "‘New Hampshire building code’ or ‘state building code’ means the adoption by reference of the International Building Code 2000, the International Plumbing Code 2000, the International Mechanical Code 2000, the International Energy Conservation Code 2000, and the International Residential Code 2000, as published by the International Code Council, and the National Electric Code 2002." [RSA 155-A:1, IV]
• SENATE BILL 234 AN ACT including the International Residential Code 2000 in the definition of the state building code. Chapter Law 112 of 2006. (See the note from the 2006 NHMA Final Legislative Bulletin.)
• RSA 674:51 Power to Amend State Building Code and Establish Enforcement Procedures
• RSA 674:51-a Local Adoption of Building Codes by Reference
• Department of Safety, State Building Code
• State Building Code Review Board
• State Building Code Update - NHMA Legal Q & A
• Fire Code. There is also a state fire code which is adopted under administrative rules through the State Fire Marshal’s office (see the enabling statute RSA 153:5). Contact the SFM’s office directly (271-3294) to learn more about both and to see how the new state building code and the state fire code work together.
• Energy Code. There is a residential energy code that is administered by the Public Utilities Commission. The code is adopted as an administrative rule and RSA 155-D is the enabling statute.
• Architectural Barrier-Free Design Code. Information about ABFDC is available from the Governor’s Commission on Disability, Architectural Barrier Free-Design Committee
• NH Building Officials Association