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Tennessee · Building code

The building code in force in Tennessee now.

2021 IBC with Tennessee amendments (Rule 0780-02-02), effective Apr 17, 2025; also 2021 IEBC, IMC, IPC, IFGC, IPMC and commercial IECC; 2018 IRC and residential IECC; 2017 NEC with two optional items. Enforced by SFMO Codes Enforcement (plans review, inspections) outside exempt jurisdictions; exempt local governments enforce their own codes, which must be within 7 years of the latest edition (T.C.A. 68-120-101(b)(5)(A)), subject to SFMO audit. Checked on the primary source; the state record was last reviewed 2026-11-12.

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Building code in Tennessee

Checked on the source
In force

2021 IBC with Tennessee amendments (Rule 0780-02-02), effective Apr 17, 2025; also 2021 IEBC, IMC, IPC, IFGC, IPMC and commercial IECC; 2018 IRC and residential IECC; 2017 NEC with two optional items

Replaced the 2012 I-codes in force since Aug 4, 2016. Amendments address the ASCE 7 edition, flammable gases (2024 IBC/IFC definitions) and IEBC storm shelters. Prior-code plans were accepted through Aug 15, 2025 (AIA Tennessee).

Source: primary document

Who enforces it

SFMO Codes Enforcement (plans review, inspections) outside exempt jurisdictions; exempt local governments enforce their own codes, which must be within 7 years of the latest edition (T.C.A. 68-120-101(b)(5)(A)), subject to SFMO audit

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

What changes next

In force

In force (State Fire Marshal's adopted-codes page read on the primary page Nov 9, 2026: 2021 edition effective Apr 17, 2025; no newer adoption, proposed rule or hearing posted)

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 Tennessee

Which building code applies in Tennessee today?

2021 IBC with Tennessee amendments (Rule 0780-02-02), effective Apr 17, 2025; also 2021 IEBC, IMC, IPC, IFGC, IPMC and commercial IECC; 2018 IRC and residential IECC; 2017 NEC with two optional items. Replaced the 2012 I-codes in force since Aug 4, 2016. Amendments address the ASCE 7 edition, flammable gases (2024 IBC/IFC definitions) and IEBC storm shelters. Prior-code plans were accepted through Aug 15, 2025 (AIA Tennessee).

Who enforces the building code in Tennessee?

SFMO Codes Enforcement (plans review, inspections) outside exempt jurisdictions; exempt local governments enforce their own codes, which must be within 7 years of the latest edition (T.C.A. 68-120-101(b)(5)(A)), subject to SFMO audit.

What changes next for the building code in Tennessee?

Nothing is scheduled. The rule above stays in force until the state adopts a newer edition or amends the program; AHJ Radar re-checks the source weekly.

Other areas in Tennessee

Everything in force in Tennessee
Fire code2021 IFC with Tennessee amendments (Rule 0780-02-02), effective Apr 17, 2025, replacing th…ElevatorsRule 0800-03-04 (authority T.C.A. 68-121-103): ASME A17.1-2016 and A18.1-2014, effective J…BoilersBoard of Boiler Rules chapter 0800-03-03 (TDLWD copy revised June 2021; Secretary of State…Pools and spasTDH Rule 1200-23-05 Public Swimming Pools under T.C.A. 68-14-301 et seq. (TDH-hosted copy,…Hotels and lodgingTDH hotel permit and inspection, Rule 1200-23-04 (Hotels) under T.C.A. 68-14-301 et seq.; …Workplace safetyTOSHA State Plan (Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development)

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