Pennsylvania
Updated 3/15/2025
Overview
Pennsylvania follows a hybrid approach to building code adoption under the Uniform
Construction Code (UCC). The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (DLI)
oversees the UCC, which incorporates the 2018 ICC codes with state-specific amendments.
These codes apply statewide, ensuring minimum safety standards for construction, renovation,
and alterations.
How Pennsylvania’s Hybrid Adoption Works:
How Pennsylvania’s Hybrid Adoption Works:
- Statewide UCC Enforcement: The UCC is mandatory statewide, meaning all municipalities must comply with the baseline codes and amendments.
- Local Enforcement & Amendments: Over 90% of municipalities enforce the UCC locally and may hire code officials or third-party agencies for inspections and permitting. Some municipalities, such as those in Second Class Counties (e.g., Allegheny County), can enforce their own plumbing codes as long as they meet or exceed UCC requirements.
- Restrictions on Local Amendments: Municipalities cannot weaken the UCC but can propose stricter requirements. The Review and Advisory Council (RAC) reviews and updates codes every three years to ensure safety and economic feasibility.
CodePro Uses the Following Codes for Answers:
- 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) + Pennsylvania Amendments
- 2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC) + Pennsylvania Amendments
- 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) + Pennsylvania Amendments
Additional Resources:
For more details, click here for the state-specific website.
All state-specific amendments are found on one document.
If your municipality enforces the UCC, you must follow state-adopted codes plus any stricter local amendments. If your municipality does NOT enforce the UCC, the state enforces it directly, meaning only the state amendments apply.
All state-specific amendments are found on one document.
If your municipality enforces the UCC, you must follow state-adopted codes plus any stricter local amendments. If your municipality does NOT enforce the UCC, the state enforces it directly, meaning only the state amendments apply.
- Adoption Category
Hybrid
- Amendments
State and Local
Hybrid Adoption
A hybrid adoption system means codes can vary at state and local level. Many times the
state establishes a base code for building regulations and local jurisdictions then have the
authority to amend or adopt more stringent requirements. This allows flexibility for cities
and counties to tailor codes to their specific needs while maintaining a foundational
standard set at the state level.