- Code Books: Code books are expected to be available for purchase on the ICC website by the end of year 2024.
- Energy Code: The 2024 Energy Code remains frozen pending legislative action. Until further notice, the energy requirements from the 2018 North Carolina Residential Code will remain in effect.
- Vested Rights: Under NCGS 160D-108, projects may claim vested rights under specific circumstances. To remain under the 2018 code using vested rights, an Alternate Materials and Methods (AMM) request must be submitted to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement. This request must detail the specific circumstances qualifying the project for vested rights. If the AMM is approved, the project may proceed under the 2018 code.
- Story-Attic Definition Removed: The definition of story-attic has been removed from the 2024 Residential Code. This change renders our previous interpretations of story-attic invalid, as the updated code introduces clear language and requirements that supersede prior guidance. Until these updates are clarified through specific project applications and enforcement practices, our prior interpretations should no longer be relied upon for compliance. Interpreting new sections of the code can be challenging, much like applying untested laws. Practical application may evolve as projects are reviewed and approved. While we rely on the intent of the code and our best judgment, interpretations may adapt real-world scenarios provide further insight.
- GS 160D-108 and Three- and Four-Family Dwellings: Last August, GS 160D-108 (Session Law 2023-108) was passed, requiring the Residential Building Code Council (RBCC) to amend the NC Residential Code to include three- and four-family dwellings. However, the RBCC has not yet been appointed, and rulemaking for these dwellings will not begin until the council is established on January 2025.
- A2L Refrigerants: Federal changes regarding A2L refrigerants have no significant impact on low-rise residential buildings.
Code Academy Training
Beginning in 2025, Residential Code Academy training sessions will be held in-person at our offices. These sessions will focus on updates in the new residential code. Designers, builders, architects, and engineers are invited to attend our monthly inspector training sessions, typically held the first Wednesday of every month from 8:00–10:00 am (contact us for confirmation).
Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement (LUESA)
2145 Suttle Avenue, Charlotte NC
4th Floor Conference Rooms
For further clarification or questions, you may contact any of the following:
2024 Building Code
- Combustible stairs now allowed in 1-A podium buildings per 510.2 when conditions are met
- Section 706.1.1 Party Walls --- Party/Firewall not required when dividing building for ownership purposes under certain conditions.
- 1009.6.2 , exception for interior area of refuge
2024 Building Code Chapter 11 and ICC A117.1-2017 Accessibility Standard
- NCSBC Chapter 11 new scoping for Electric Vehicle charging stations
- ICC A117.1-2017 section 410.5.1 New larger size requirement in new buildings for Platform lifts
- ICC A117.1-2017 section 305.3 Clear floor space increased from 48 inches to 52 inches
- ICC A117.1-2017 section 507 accessible routes through parking must be physically separated from vehicular traffic
- ICC A117.1-2017 section 304.3.1 increased size of circular turning space from 60 inches to 67 inches
The 2023 NC Electrical Code will be effective in 2025. This particular code change cycle will prove more challenging than previous adoptions. Commercial and residential projects will adhere to the same edition of the NC Electrical Code ( 2023 NEC with N.C. Amendments). Additionally, this cycle we see that many longstanding amendments have expired that residential projects have received benefits from for a decade. Specific items that should be reviewed are as follows:
- Expanded GFCI requirements for protections that include receptacles and hard-wired equipment in residential and commercial applications
- Expanded AFCI requirements in commercial applications and residential coupled with the expiration of previous amendments
- Expanded requirements for surge protection for residential and commercial services and feeders
- New requirements for exterior residential service disconnecting means
- Extensive changes to pool equipotential and perimeter surface bonding
Of course, there are many other changes to consider; please use the links below to view or acquire 2023 NEC editions, and the list of applicable N.C. Amendments.
- Dryer Exhaust Ducts in Framing Cavities
- Pollution Control Units
- Smoker Ovens with Integral Exhaust
- Pipe and Duct Insulation within Plenums
- Testing of Underground Ducts
- Ceiling Radiation Dampers
- High-volume Large [1] diameter Fans
- Ammonia System Ventilation Rate
- Refrigerant Piping joints, location, and installation
- Bonding of CSST and Arc-resistant CSST
- Schedule 10 Steel Gas Pipe
- Press-Connect Joints for 5 psi systems
- FGC Venting System Terminal Clearances
Please see the following links to the Office of the State Fire Marshal for more detail on upcoming code changes:
- Definition of Press-connect Joint
- Definition of Accessible
- Third-party Certification for Cast-iron Pipe
- Corrosion Protection for Metallic Piping
- Sway Bracing for Drainage Piping
- Thermal Expansion Tank Support
- The Occupancy (Group) column has been deleted from Table 403.1
- Pumped Waste Plumbing Fixtures
- Residential Dishwasher Standard
- Insert Fittings on T&P Valve Piping
- Thermal Expansion Control Devices
- Independent Backflow Protection for Drink Dispensers
- Definition of Public and Private
- Fixture Quantity Calculations for Multiple User Facilities
- Individual Tenant Water Shut-off Valve
- Water Heaters Providing Tempered Water to Fixtures
- Tracer Wire for Buried Nonmetallic Water Service Piping
- Methods for Restoring and rehabilitation of Building Sewer Piping
Please visit the Office of the State Fire Marshal's link to the 2024 N.C. Plumbing Code for more detail.
