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State Adoption Protocol Category:
State baseline
State Adoption Protocol Summary:

The state adopts a building code based on the IBC, but enforcement is local. Jurisdictions adopting the code must follow the state version but may amend it, while home rule cities can theoretically adopt different codes.

State Upcoming Adoption Status:
New codes effective in 2026
Tennessee
>
Memphis
Memphis
,
TN
No upcoming changes

State Adoption Context

State baseline here

Tennessee enforces minimum statewide commercial building codes through the State Fire Marshal's Office, though enforcement varies in "Exempt Jurisdictions" with reduced requirements. It is unclear if local jurisdictions may adopt stricter amendments to state codes.

Code adoption status

-

Does this city make amendments?

Tennessee enforces minimum statewide commercial building codes through the State Fire Marshal's Office, though enforcement varies in "Exempt Jurisdictions" with reduced requirements. It is unclear if local jurisdictions may adopt stricter amendments to state codes.

Yes

Memphis and Shelby County adopt the ICC codes and NEC with both technical and administrative amendments via joint ordinances. Local amendments impact commercial building, energy, fire, mechanical, plumbing, fuel gas, and electrical requirements.

Current City Codes

Family
Base Code
Edition
BUILDING
International Building Code
2021
FIRE
International Fire Code
2021
ENERGY
International Energy Conservation Code
2018
ELECTRICAL
National Electrical Code
2020
MECHANICAL
International Mechanical Code
2021
PLUMBING
International Plumbing Code
2021

Upcoming Code Changes

Tennessee enforces minimum statewide commercial building codes through the State Fire Marshal's Office, though enforcement varies in "Exempt Jurisdictions" with reduced requirements. It is unclear if local jurisdictions may adopt stricter amendments to state codes.

No upcoming changes

No updates

No grace periods found
Disclaimer: This information should be used to guide your research and does not represent the AHJ. Always verify via government websites.
Louisiana
>
New Orleans
New Orleans
,
LA
New codes effective in 2026
2026-07-01

State Adoption Context

State baseline here

Louisiana enforces a single, uniform building code statewide for all projects, including commercial. Local jurisdictions may handle enforcement but cannot amend, opt out, or adopt independent building codes.

Code adoption status

-

Does this city make amendments?

Louisiana enforces a single, uniform building code statewide for all projects, including commercial. Local jurisdictions may handle enforcement but cannot amend, opt out, or adopt independent building codes.

Yes

New Orleans adopts the 2021 International Codes with both technical and administrative amendments addressing local conditions. Key amendments impact flood elevation, administrative processes, and cross-references to local provisions for commercial projects.

Current City Codes

Family
Base Code
Edition
BUILDING
International Building Code
2021
FIRE
International Fire Code
2021
ENERGY
International Energy Conservation Code
2021
ELECTRICAL
National Electrical Code
2020
MECHANICAL
International Mechanical Code
2021
PLUMBING
International Plumbing Code
2021

Upcoming Code Changes

Louisiana enforces a single, uniform building code statewide for all projects, including commercial. Local jurisdictions may handle enforcement but cannot amend, opt out, or adopt independent building codes.

New codes effective in 2026
2026-07-01

Louisiana will allow local governments to adopt the International Fire Code as part of its Uniform Fire Prevention Code starting July 1, 2026, with New Orleans already using the 2021 version. Fire Marshal directives will require the 2021 International Existing Building Code for permits issued on or after January 1, 2026, impacting fire and building codes statewide.

No grace periods found
Disclaimer: This information should be used to guide your research and does not represent the AHJ. Always verify via government websites.