2024 New Code Adoption Press Release

Effective July 1, 2026, the State of New Hampshire adopted the 2024 editions of the International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Existing Building Code (IEBC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Plumbing Code (IPC), and International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC), along with the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC). The 2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) remains in effect. These codes include all amendments adopted by the State of New Hampshire.

We understand and appreciate that transitioning to new code requirements can present challenges, particularly for projects that require significant time for design, review, and construction. In accordance with RSA 155-A:2, projects that have submitted a complete building permit application prior to July 1, 2026, may continue to be reviewed, permitted, constructed, and inspected under the code that was in effect at the time the application was received for the duration of the work covered by that permit.

State law also establishes a six-month concurrency period from July 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. During this period, applicants may elect to submit building permit applications and related construction documents using either the previously adopted code editions or the newly adopted 2024 code editions. However, projects must be designed entirely under one code edition. Mixing provisions from different code editions on the same project is not permitted.

During the concurrency period, all permit applications and construction documents must clearly identify which edition of the code is being used for the project. Beginning January 1, 2027, all new permit applications must comply with the 2024 New Hampshire State Building Code.