Building Codes Assistance Project

[Updated June 25, 2009]

On May 14, 2009, Rhode Island Governor Donald Carcier signed HB 5986 into law, directing the Rhode Island State Building Commission to update the state building code to include the 2009 IECC and ASHRAE 90.1-2007 and to develop a plan to achieve compliance in 90 percent of new and renovated building space by February 2017.

Beginning August 2009, the Commission's Energy Subcommittee will review the codes, with public hearings and a comment period to follow.  The new codes would then go before the State Legislature's Legislative Oversight Committee for final approval (tentatively hoped for during January or February 2010). 

After a period for training of code officials and other stakeholders, a tentative goal of July 2010 would be the effective date of the new state building code.  Development of a plan to achieve 90 percent compliance would likely begin some time in this code cycle's 2nd year, or some time in 2011.

More information on HB 5986: Bill Search (search for "5986") | Text

Other resources: RI Building and Fire Codes | Jack Leyden (State Building Commissioner)

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BCAP Rhode Island Code Status Page