Michigan Building Codes

Current Commercial Code

Michigan building code

2009 Michigan Uniform Energy Code (MUEC), Part 10a
Based on the 2015 International Building Code (IBC) with amendments Passed 4/20/2017, effective 4/20/2017

Michigan Electrical Code 2023

Official title:
Michigan Electrical Code 2023

Effective dates:
March 12, 2024 – Present

Adopts with amendments:
2023 National Electrical Code (NEC)

Overview:
The 2023 Michigan Electrical Code adopts the second printing edition of the 2023 National Electrical Code with state-specific modifications suitable for Michigan’s requirements. This code covers all aspects of electrical safety including requirements for electrical installations to ensure safety to life and property from electrical hazards. Notably, the code includes provisions like mandatory surge protection for certain types of dwelling units and requirements for emergency disconnects in one- and two-family dwellings.

Michigan Stationary Fuel Cell Power Code 2020

Michigan Plumbing Code 2021

Adoption Info

Official title:
Michigan Plumbing Code

Effective dates:
March 12, 2024 – Present

Adopts with amendments:
International Plumbing Code 2021 (IPC 2021)

Overview:
The International Plumbing Code (IPC) is a publication for the design, installation, and maintenance of plumbing systems in buildings and structures, including sanitation and water conservation.

The Michigan Plumbing Code 2021 is based on the International Plumbing Code 2021 (IPC 2021) with amendments and additions. These amendments include specific modifications to ensure the code meets the unique requirements and conditions in Michigan. Notable changes have been made to the inspection and testing protocols of plumbing systems, particularly focusing on backflow prevention assemblies to ensure they are operable and meet safety standards.

Michigan Mechanical Code 2021

Adoption Info

Official title:
Michigan Mechanical Code 2021

Effective dates:
March 12, 2024 – Present

Adopts with amendments:
2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC 2021)

Overview:
The 2021 Michigan Mechanical Code adopts the third printing edition of the 2021 International Mechanical Code with specific state modifications to better suit local needs. These amendments include updates to the safety standards for the use of A2L refrigerants as part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act’s requirements to reduce the use of hydrofluorocarbons. The Michigan Mechanical Code ensures that mechanical systems in buildings meet safety, efficiency, and environmental objectives​

2015 Michigan Energy Code

Adoption Info

Official title:
2015 Michigan Energy Code

Effective dates:
Effective since September 20, 2017

Adopts with amendments:
2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)

Overview:
The 2015 Michigan Energy Code (MEC) integrates the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code and includes state-specific amendments tailored to Michigan’s climate and building practices. This code outlines standards for energy efficiency in the design and construction of both residential and commercial buildings, ensuring systems are in place for effective energy conservation and management.

Current Residential Code

2015 Michigan Residential Code, Chapter 11
Based on the 2018 IRC with state-specific amendments
Effective 10/4/2021

Michigan Rehab Code

2015 Michigan Rehabilitation Code for Existing Buildings
Based on the 2015 IEBC with state-specific amendments
Effective as of the date it was adopted by the state

 Climate Zones: 5A, 6A, 7

Code Adoption and Change Process

Code Change Process

The Michigan Uniform Energy Code (MUEC) is promulgated by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA, formerly DELEG) Bureau of Construction Codes and is evaluated for revisions or modifications every three years.

Code Change Cycle

The Bureau of Construction Codes in the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA, formerly DELEG) reviews the MUEC every three years in concurrence with the national model code cycle. Section 1972 PA 230 states that the director of the construction code commission shall add, amend, and rescind rules to update the commercial chapters of the Michigan energy code not less than once every three years to coincide with the national code change cycle. However, this document also states that, commencing with the 2015 national code change cycle, the director shall add, amend, and rescind rules to simultaneously update all chapters of the Michigan residential code not less frequently than once every six years or more frequently than once every three years as the director determines is appropriate. This code change cycle process was enacted by House Bill No. 4561 in 2012.

Next Code Update

According to the 2015-2016 rules status chart, the new commercial energy code will be effective by early 2017.

The October 1st Michigan Register gives notice that the state is updating its commercial energy code to be based on the 2015 IECC and ASHRAE 90.1-2013 with amendments.

History

July 1, 2011 The Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth (DELEG) becomes the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
March 9, 2011 The 2009 Michigan Uniform Energy Code (MUEC), Part 10 (Residential) and Part 10a (Commercial), filed with the Secretary of State on November 8, 2010, become effective. The rules adopt the 2009 IECC with Michigan amendments and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007.
July 20, 2010 The Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth (DELEG) Bureau of Construction Codes holds a public hearing to receive public comments on proposed amendments to the Michigan Uniform Energy Code (MUEC), Part 10 (Residential)and Part 10a (Commercial). The proposed rules would adopt the 2009 IECC with Michigan amendments and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007. The MUEC is currently based on the 2003 IRC and ASHRAE 90.1-1999).
March 2009 The Michigan Climate Action Council (MCAC) releases its Climate Action Plan.
October 24, 2008 The 2003 MUEC becomes effective.
2002 The Department of Labor and Economic Growth (DELEG) establishes a committee to review and update Michigan’s Uniform Energy Code. After review and promulgation of the code, the Ingham County Circuit Court issued an injunction to halt the February 28, 2005 effective date of the rules in response to a lawsuit by the Michigan Association of Home Builders (MAHB). The new code was not implemented between 2005 and 2008 while litigation was before the courts.

On October 24, 2008, the judge presiding over the litigation dismissed the MAHB complaint and dissolved the lawsuit, making the rules effective immediately. Therefore, every unit of government enforcing the single state construction code had to apply the 2003 Michigan Uniform Energy Code to newly issued permits. The 2003 MUEC was based on the 2003 International Residential Code (IRC) with references to the 2004 IECC supplement and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999.
March 31, 1999 The Michigan Uniform Energy Code Part 10 Rules are updated.
January 1996 SB 719 repeals the 1995 adoption of the 1993 MEC. The legislation directs the state construction code commission to, by April 1, 1997, provide cost-effective standards and establish a program to provide home buyers with energy rating information. A 10-member ad hoc committee is established to assist with these efforts.
July 27, 1985 The state adopts ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90A-1980 statewide.
June 22, 1977 The state adopts ASHRAE/IES Standard 90-1975 statewide. Prior to this date, the state of Michigan had no building energy efficiency requirements.
Contacts

Irvin Poke
Director, Construction Codes
Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Email: pokei@michigan.gov

Roger Doherty
Energy Office
Michigan Energy Office
Email: dohertyr1@michigan.gov

Isaac Elnecave
Senior Policy Manager
Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA)
Email: ielnecave@mwalliance.org

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