Minnesota Energy Codes

Minnesota’s energy codes, derived from the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), are designed to enhance energy efficiency in buildings. They set standards for insulation, HVAC systems, lighting, and more to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. Complying with these codes not only saves money for building owners but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable Minnesota.

Minnesota energy codes

Current Commercial Code of Minnesota

Minnesota Commercial State Building Code, Chapter 1323, based on the 2012 IECC with state-specific amendments; ASHRAE 90.1-2010 is also a compliance option.
passed 8/18/14, effective 6/2/15

This code is also applicable for public Minnesota buildings. The following are exemptions from the code:

  • Buildings that do not use either electricity or fossil fuel; and
  • Equipment and portions of building systems that use energy primarily to provide for industrial or manufacturing processes
Current Residential Code

Minnesota Residential State Building Code, based on the 2012 IECC with state-specific amendments.
passed 8/18/14, effective 2/14/15

Code Book Fact Sheet: 2015 Minnesota Energy Code

Climate Zones: 6A, 7

Code Adoption and Change Process

Code Change Process

Regulatory: Authority for adopting the state energy codes has been given to the Department of Labor and Industry. The state’s Administrative Procedures Act provides for a minimum update process of 18 months. Its procedures require a formal public hearing only if requested by 25 or more individuals. The Building Codes and Standards Division delivers an executive summary of the proposed rule changes to the office of the Governor. After the Governor and State Reviser’s Office approve the rule changes, a Notice of Adoption is published in the state register.

Code Change Cycle

No set schedule

Next Code Update

Unknown

History

Effective Dates of Minnesota Code Adoptions

June 2, 2015 The current commercial energy code, based on the 2012 IECC and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010, becomes effective. The code establishes minimum standards for the construction, reconstruction, alteration, and repair of non-residential buildings governing matters including design and construction standards regarding heat loss control, illumination, and climate control pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, sections 326B.101, 326B.106, and 326B.13.
February 14, 2015 The current residential energy code, based on the 2012 IECC with amendments, becomes effective.

The following are exemptions from the code:

  • Portions of the building that do not enclose conditioned space, including garages
  • Insulation R-values, air barrier, and vapor retarder requirements are not required for existing foundations, crawl space walls, and basements in existing dwellings or existing dwelling units whose alteration or repair require a permit if the original dwelling’s permit was issued before the effective date of this chapter
  • Additions to existing dwellings or dwelling units may be made without making the entire dwelling or dwelling unit comply, provided that the addition complies with all the requirements of this chapter
  • Alteration or repairs to existing dwellings or dwelling units may be made without making the entire dwelling or dwelling unit comply, provided the alteration complies with as many requirements of this chapter as feasible, as determined by the designated building official
  • Buildings that have been specifically designated as historically significant by the state or local governing body, or listed or determined to be eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places
  • If a building houses more than one occupancy, each portion of the building must conform to the requirements for the occupancy housed in that portion
  • This chapter does not cover buildings, structures, or portions of buildings or structures whose peak design energy rate usage is less than 3.4 Btu per hour per square foot or 1.0 Watt per square foot of floor area for all purposes
August 18, 2014 The adoption notice for the updated commercial energy code is posted in the Minnesota State Register. The notice for the updated residential energy code is posted as well.
April 7, 2014 The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) releases the first draft of the updated commercial and residential energy codes.
June 1, 2009 The 2007 Minnesota State Building Code becomes effective.
2008 After seven and a half years, the state adopts new residential and commercial energy codes based on the 2006 IRC and ASHRAE 90.1-2004, respectively.
2008 After seven and a half years, the state adopts new residential and commercial energy codes based on the 2006 IRC and ASHRAE 90.1-2004, respectively.
April 2008 The State of Minnesota works closely with the Center for Climate Strategies to create a Climate Mitigation Action Plan which includes improving the energy code and incentives for more efficient buildings.
July 20, 1999 A commercial energy code exceeding ASHRAE 90.1-1989 becomes effective.
1979 Individual counties outside of the seven-county Minneapolis/St. Paul area and incorporated cities with populations of less than 2,500 were given the option of enforcing a statewide building code. Many elected to have no enforcement within their area.
Contacts

Donald Sivigny
Building Codes and Standards
Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry
Email: don.sivigny@state.mn.us

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

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