Cook County Department of Building and Zoning Proposes Adopting International Building Code Standards for Unincorporated Cook
“The current Cook County Building Code dates back to 1949. Although various amendments have been approved throughout the years, it remains significantly outdated. It’s important that our regulations for unincorporated areas are consistent with those of bordering municipalities and that our building code reflects modern realities,†President Preckwinkle said. “These new standards will encourage more economic development in unincorporated areas, and provide further incentives for municipalities to incorporate these properties.â€
“Adoption of these new codes protects public safety, saves time for contractors, and improves efficiency for the County,†stated Commissioner Silvestri.
The specific international standards proposed are the 2009 National Electrical Code, the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code, the 2009 International Building Code, the 2009 International Residential Code and the 2012 International Mechanical Code. The proposed ordinance is supported by the local building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical unions.
The ordinance was referred to the Building and Zoning Committee and is expected to be on the Board agenda for approval at the November Board meeting.
