Building Code Information

The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) is a state regulation promulgated by the Virginia Board of Housing and Community Development to establish minimum regulations to govern the construction and maintenance of buildings and structures.  The provisions of the USBC are based on nationally recognized model building and fire codes published by the International Code Council, Inc. (ICC). The ICC model codes are made part of the USBC through a regulatory process known as incorporation by reference. The USBC also contains administrative provisions governing the use of the model codes and establishing requirements for the enforcement of the code by the local building departments and other code enforcement agencies. The 2021 edition of the USBC, effective on January 18, 2024, includes a provision to allow permits filed no later than January 17, 2025, to remain subject to the previous edition (2018) of the USBC. Links to the various editions of the USBC and the referenced ICC model codes are listed below. 

ICC Codes with VA Amendments

Virginia Codes (External Link to International Code Council Website)

Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Codes and Related Regulations

Virginia Building, Fire and Related Regulations  (External Link to Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Website)

2018 Residential Code Changes – Building and Trades

2018 Residential Building Code Changes

2018 Residential Electrical Code Changes

2018 Plumbing/Mechanical Code Changes

Contact Us

Building Inspections

Physical Address
Department of Building Construction and Inspections
4301 East Parham Road
Henrico, VA 23228

Phone
(804) 501-4360
Automated Permit System
(804) 501-7770

Mailing Address
Department of Building Construction and Inspections
P. O. Box 90775
Henrico, VA 23273-0775

 
Google Translate Icon

Translate