Setbacks have hit the North Carolina construction scene as the state pushes back on the adoption of the anticipated 2024 State Building Code. Slated for a January 1, start, the state has seen legislative maneuvers nudge the effective date into an undetermined future. Official word on the delay came through a statement from the North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM), citing requirements that need checking off before builders can dive into the new code. These requirements, including the publication of the code and the full formation of the Residential Code Council, are central hinges for this delayed gate.
Current focus includes recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene, which have taken priority in Western NC, leading to the additional time allowance. According to the OSFM, certain gears of government are moving smoothly with the International Code Council (ICC®) in the swing of finalizing the 2024 Code's printing and digital formats. Yet, it's not just natural disasters tugging at the schedule's hem; bureaucratic red tape also plays a unruly role, particularly in assembling the Residential Code Council which awaits appointments from the Governor and General Assembly.
For now, the good old 2018 North Carolina State Building Code holds the fort. That's not to say builders and designers are stuck in the past—the state has given the thumbs up for using the 2024 Code as an alternative method of construction with the proper request in place. This interim measure serves as a bridge until the full breadth of the new code comes into effect with all its ten codes spanning from building, residential, existing building, energy conservation, fire, fuel gas, mechanical, to plumbing, alongside the 2023 Electrical Code and administrative policies.
Despite the delay, preparation remains a key tune played by the state officials. NC Fire Marshal Brian Taylor underscored the importance of familiarization with the upcoming standards. "Ensuring the safety and integrity of our buildings is our top priority. While the delay provides additional time for preparation, we encourage builders, designers, and code officials to familiarize themselves with the 2024 Code as it will set the standard for years to come," Taylor told the press. With July 31, marked as the date by which the published versions of the 2024 Code are expected ready for distribution, the state esteems this period as not just a halt but a chance to prime the construction industry for the imminent norm.
