Delaware · Building code

The building code in force in Delaware now.

Building codes are adopted and enforced by the counties and municipalities (16 Del.C. ch. 76); local codes must meet the state energy code. Enforced by County and municipal building departments; Delaware Energy Office (DNREC) sets the minimum energy code. Checked on the primary source; the state record was last reviewed 2026-11-12.

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Building code in Delaware

Checked on the source

In force

Building codes are adopted and enforced by the counties and municipalities (16 Del.C. ch. 76); local codes must meet the state energy code

Kent, New Castle and Sussex counties may adopt and enforce building, plumbing and electrical codes (sec. 7601). Under sec. 7602, county and municipal codes adopt the latest IECC within 12 months of the Delaware Energy Office's adoption; the Energy Office reviews the energy code every three years. Confirm local dates with the county.

Source: primary document

Who enforces it

County and municipal building departments; Delaware Energy Office (DNREC) sets the minimum energy code

Statewide layer. County and city amendments sit on top; confirm the local office for the address.

What changes next

No statewide code

In force; 16 Del.C. ch. 76 re-read Oct 21, 2026; energy code reviewed every three years (April 2026 revision reported earlier, not re-read; local dates not read)

What a building has to do

1 recurring duties

These apply when the building has the equipment or fits the type named. The frequency is the standard one; your local official can set a stricter one, so confirm it for the address.

Monthly

Accessible pool entry: a pool lift or sloped entry in place and working whenever the pool is open (pools with 300 or more linear feet of wall need two accessible entries; a spa needs one: lift, transfer wall or transfer system); the rule sets no inspection interval; a monthly check that it works and is charged is common practice2010 ADA Standards §242 and §1009; 28 CFR 36.211 · U.S. Department of Justice (enforced through complaints and lawsuits) · Checked against the source 2026-09-28.

Questions about the building code in Delaware

Which building code applies in Delaware today?

Building codes are adopted and enforced by the counties and municipalities (16 Del.C. ch. 76); local codes must meet the state energy code. Kent, New Castle and Sussex counties may adopt and enforce building, plumbing and electrical codes (sec. 7601). Under sec. 7602, county and municipal codes adopt the latest IECC within 12 months of the Delaware Energy Office's adoption; the Energy Office reviews the energy code every three years. Confirm local dates with the county.

Who enforces the building code in Delaware?

County and municipal building departments; Delaware Energy Office (DNREC) sets the minimum energy code.

What changes next for the building code in Delaware?

No statewide code. In force; 16 Del.C. ch. 76 re-read Oct 21, 2026; energy code reviewed every three years (April 2026 revision reported earlier, not re-read; local dates not read)