Building Codes & Design Criteria

Code Updates

survey-button Opens in new windowThe Town of Erie Board of Trustees has adopted the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC) to be effective Aug. 21, 2021. 

REQUIRED: Any and all electrical work permitted in the Town after Sept. 21, 2021 is required to comply with the 2020 NEC.

Please also review the 2021 International Code Adoption Ordinance. The Board of Trustees approved the adoption of these codes on Dec. 13, 2022.

2021 International Fire Codes

The Board of Trustees held a public hearing on the adoption of the 2021 International Fire Codes on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023. Review the draft ordinance.

Building Codes

Building codes are established to provide minimum standards to safeguard life and limb, health, property, and public welfare by regulating and controlling construction. 

NOTICE: 2021 Code Adoption | Grace Period Extension

The Town of Erie Board of Trustees adopted the 2021 editions of the International Codes (I-Codes) on Dec. 13, 2022 that became effective as of Jan. 20, 2023. 

To allow for builders, developers, and others to review and adjust to the new codes, a grace period was enacted in which the previous 2015 I-Codes were still applicable. This initial grace period is set to expire, meaning that all applications received after March 31, 2023 would need to be submitted, accepted, and comply with the 2021 editions of the I-Codes and applicable amendments.

Latest Update

To allow for adequate and consistent interpretation, implementation, and enforcement of the adopted 2021 I-Codes, the grace period for compliance is now extended for up to 6 months from April 1, 2023.  A specific compliance date will be determined shortly, and a follow-up notification will be issued. Please email bldgfax@erieco.gov with any questions about this extension. 

Planning Division Design Criteria

This includes items such as architectural standards, access requirements, and orientation requirements. These requirements are governed by the Unified Development Code as well as individual subdivision development agreements. Development Design Standards.

Please consult with the Planning Division to ensure your project meets these requirements.

Design Criteria

Please design residential projects to comply with the following criteria:

  • Snow load - 30 psf
  • Wind load - 142 mph V(ult)
  • Frost depth - 30 inches
  • Winter design temp - 0 degrees
  • Summer design temp - 91 degrees