On October 1, 2018, new Uniform Construction Codes will go into effect throughout the state of Pennsylvania. The changes represent the first building code update the state has made since 2009.

Pennsylvania has updated its building codes for commercial and residential construction to the 2015 International Codes while Philadelphia will adopt the 2018 International Codes for all non-residential construction (residential construction will continue to follow the 2015 International Residential Code, with state-modifications). The leap establishes Philadelphia as the first United States city to adopt the state-of-the-art 2018 IBC codes and a new leader in modern code adoption.

The state has provided a six month grace period for adopting the new 2018 code. Beginning Monday, April 1, 2019, all permit applications submitted for new buildings or major renovations must be reviewed under the new codes. For more information, reference Philadelphia’s new Code Bulletin which details the implementation of the 2018 International Codes.

For questions about complying with PA’s building code requirements, contact the experts at Milrose today.