Building Codes Assistance Project

Upload Date: 07/02/08

On May 14, 2008 the state legislature amended Public Chapter No. 907 by establishing the 2003 IECC as the mandatory minimum energy conservation standard for new residential construction on or after January 1, 2009. The law strongly encourages builders to voluntarily adhere to the 2006 IECC standards for residential and commercial construction.

House Bill 2757 and the corresponding Senate Bill 3092 would remove authorization for local jurisdictions to use the Model Energy Code, 1992 Edition, as minimum requirement for effective energy use in new buildings; requires 2000 International Energy Conservation Code with 2002 amendments, published by the International Code Council, be used as minimum requirements. As of April 2, 2008, both bills are in committee.

The Tennessee House Conservation and Environment Committee House just passed HB 348 which will update energy codes for homes to 2003 IECC. It has been referred to the House Finance, Ways & Means Committee for consideration. Last year the Senate passed (SB 116) the same bill. Final passage of the bill is expected soon.

For more information on the status of HB0348/SB0116, consult the Tennessee Legislature Bill Status webpage.