A building code is an adopted set of requirements that governs how buildings are designed, constructed, altered, or occupied.
Definition
For a civil engineering firm, a building code is one part of the project’s governing requirements. It may set minimum provisions for matters such as structural safety, accessibility, fire protection, and building systems, depending on the adopted code and project scope. A code can be adopted with local amendments, and the applicable edition may differ by jurisdiction. Firms identify the governing requirements with the project team and relevant authority, then use them as design and review criteria. A code is not a complete project brief: owner standards, site conditions, permits, and other laws may add requirements. It is also not the same as a model code, which does not apply automatically everywhere. The International Code Council develops model codes, but the authority having jurisdiction determines which provisions apply locally.
How owners use it
- Identify the governing code and amendments during project startup so the team uses a shared design basis.
- Compare code requirements with owner criteria and project scope when preparing design assumptions and fee estimates.
- Document code-related decisions and interpretations that affect design reviews or coordination.
- For a building project, the team identifies the adopted code and applicable provisions, then records them in its design criteria.
