Adopted Codes & Amendments

2024 Code Update

Summary Information for residents and contractors. This information is not the code - refer to the adopted ordinances and the full text for complete requirements. 

Codes & Standards Being Adopted:

• City of Prospect Heights Municipal Ordinance (Amended 2012 Editions - May 2016)
• City of Prospect Heights Zoning Code
• International Building Code (IBC) 2024 - www.iccsafe.org 
• International Residential Code (IRC) 2024 - www.iccsafe.org 
• International Fire Code (IFC) 2024 - www.iccsafe.org
• International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) 2024 - www.iccsafe.org 
• International Mechanical Code (IMC) 2024 - www.iccsafe.org 
• International Property Maintenance Code 2024
• International Existing Building Code (IEBC) 2024
• Illinois State Plumbing Code (ISPSC) 2024 - www.idph.state.il.us 
• International Energy Code/Illinois Energy Conservation Code 2021 - www.iccsafe.org 
• National Electric Code NFPA 70 - www.nfpa.org
• ALSO REFER TO THE MUNICIPAL ZONING ORDINANCE

Effective Date & Transition

• Effective Date: January 1, 2026
• Applications submitted on/after the effective date will be reviewed under the 2024 adopted codes.
• Permits issued prior to the effective date may continue under the previously adopted codes unless scope changes require re-review (Building Official Determination)

Selected Examples of Changes (Not Exhaustive)

• Energy storage systems (batteries): new requirements and garage protection provisions were installed. 
• Structural design references: updated wind/earthquake/snow load data and expanded hazard considerations (including tornado leads in the 2024 IBC).
• Mechanical systems: updated requirements to accommodate newer refrigerants (including A2L refrigerants) and related safety provisions. 
• Work on existing buildings: expanded/clarified provisions for repairs, alterations, additions, and relocated/moved structures (where applicable). 

Common Projects That May Be Affected

• Additions, dormers, and significant remodels
• Basement finishes and new bedrooms
• Deck rebuilds, porches, stairs, guards/handrails
• Service/panel upgrades and receptacle additions (per NFPA 70 as adopted)
• Interior alterations involving egress, smoke/CO alarms, or fire separation
• Garage conversions and accessory structures
• Furnace/AC replacements and new mechanical installs

What to Include With Permit Submittals (to avoid delays)

• Correct code references on plans/specs (use the adopted editions above after the effective date).
• Clear scope of work and a complete plan set (existing + proposed).
• Manufacturer cut sheets/listings for equipment and assemblies (HVAC, fuel gas, electrical components, batteries, etc.).
• Structural details and connections where altered (including decks, openings, beams, load-bearing changes). 
• Energy compliance documentation as required by the 2021 Illinois Energy Conservation Code.