Overview
The Uniform Code, which took effect on January 1, 1984, prescribes the minimum standards for building construction in New York. It is applicable in every part of the State with the exception of New York City, which is currently permitted to retain its own code. The Uniform Code consists of certain Department of State regulations and adopted referenced standards. The majority of the Uniform Code is contained in these referenced standards, primarily specific printings of the International Code Council (ICC) model code books. Click here to access the adopted code books. Click here for regulations applicable to Code Enforcement and Administration.
Regulations
New York Codes, Rules and Regulations (the “NYCRR”) contain all of New York State’s Agency rules and regulations adopted under the State Administrative Procedure Act (SAPA). The State Register plays a central role in New York's rule making process. It contains proposed amendments to Agency rules and provides the public with an opportunity to comment on these amendments before an Agency adopts them. Click here for regulations applicable to the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (Uniform Code) and the State Energy Conservation Construction Code (Energy Code). Click here for proposed and recent updates to the Uniform Code.
More Restrictive Local Standards
Executive Law §379 authorizes the legislative body of local governments (cities, towns, villages, or Nassau County) to enact or adopt local laws or ordinances that impose standards for building construction that are “higher” or “more restrictive” than the minimum standards imposed by the Uniform Code. More information on these higher standards for construction can be found by clicking here.
Rule Making
TBA