HBC adopts new codes
The Interim Joint Committee on Local Government has adopted new 2018 Kentucky Building Codes (KBC) and 2018 Kentucky Residential Codes (KRC). The 2018 Kentucky Codes, modeled after the 2015 International Building Code and the 2015 International Residential Code, have certain Kentucky-specific amendments. The Kentucky Amendments are located on our web site at http://dhbc.ky.gov.
The following new codes were adopted:
- 2018 Kentucky Building Code (Based on the 2015 International Building Code with Kentucky Amendments)
- 2018 Kentucky Residential Code (Based on the 2015 International Residential Code with Kentucky Amendments)
- 2015 International Mechanical Code
- 2017 NFPA 70 – National Electrical Code
- 2012 NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code (Health Care Facilities)
The Department established January 01, 2019, as the effective date for mandatory compliance with the new codes. In the interim period, projects could be submitted under the new code or the 2013 Kentucky Codes. Project submittals within the first three (3) months of 2019, that were under design before January 01, 2019, had the option to request for a variance to continue use of the 2013 Kentucky Building Code for that project in an effort to facilitate a smooth transition to the new codes.
The following codes are unchanged:
- 2012 International Fire Code (New construction projects, only when specifically referenced by the body of KBC)
- 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (for use with the Kentucky Building Code only excluding R-2, R-3 and R-4 construction)
- 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (for use with the Kentucky Residential Code and Group R-2, R-3, and R-4 buildings in the Kentucky Building Code only)
- 2009 ICC/ANSI A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities
- Kentucky State Plumbing Law, Regulations & Code (KRS Chapter 318 and 815 KAR Chapter 20)
- State Boiler Regulation (KRS Chapter 236, 815 KAR Chapter 15)
- 2012 NFPA 1 – Fire Prevention Code (as directed by 815 KAR 10:60 Kentucky Standards of Safety)
- 2010 NFPA 13 – Installation of Sprinkler Systems
- 2010 NFPA 13D – Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One-and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes
- 2010 NFPA 13R – Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Residential Occupancies Up to and Including Four Stories in Height
- 2010 NFPA 14 – Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems
- 2009 NFPA 54 – National Fuel Gas Code
- 2010 NFPA 72 – National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
- GB-03-01- Structural Engineers Association of Kentucky – Special Inspection Guidelines, Third Edition, March 2007