2024 International Residential Code®

The 2024 International Codes® (I-Codes®) have undergone substantial formatting changes as part of the digital transformation strategy of the International Code Council® (ICC®) to improve the user experience. The changes, promoting a cleaner, more modern look and enhancing readability and sustainability, include:

• Single column text format and modernized font styles improves readability
• QR Codes replace vertical margin sidebars and arrows to identify code changes more accurately
• Shading for table headers and notes improves locating tables and applicable notes
• Grouping of associated content brings tables and figures immediately after the parent section

This comprehensive code comprises all building, plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas, energy conservation and electrical requirements for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses up to three stories. The 2024 IRC® contains many important changes:

• Imaginary lot lines are added for calculating fire separation distance when considering multiple dwellings on a single lot
• Shared accessory rooms are an option in two-family dwellings
• 10-amp circuits now allowed for some lighting circuits, lighting outlets and exhaust
• Many requirements for energy storage systems added
• New protection requirements for storage batteries in garages are added
• Sleeping loft requirements added for habitable attic style lofts and tiny home style lofts now have maximum size limits to meet an exception
• Reinforcement of the floor below guards at a mezzanine is now required
• The final test of the DWV system may be visual
• Air exhaust openings now allowed near operable windows and doors
• A2L refrigerants are added as an option for cooling equipment
• Solvent cement joints for CPVC pipe are allowed above and below ground
• Kitchen islands are no longer required to have receptacle outlets
• Snow, wind and seismic maps updated
• Accessibility in care facilities clarified
• EV cars are added to the feeder load calculations