The Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC) stands as the cornerstone of building regulations and standards across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Enforced since April 2004, the Pa Uniform Construction Code ensures consistent and safe building practices throughout the state. Notably, a significant majority, over 90%, of Pennsylvania’s 2,562 municipalities have chosen to administer and enforce the UCC at the local level. This local enforcement is carried out either by municipal employees or through certified third-party agencies, also known as private code enforcement agencies, contracted by the municipalities.
However, it’s crucial to understand the exceptions. In municipalities that have “OPTED-OUT” of local UCC enforcement, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry (L&I) assumes direct responsibility for all commercial construction code enforcement. Furthermore, L&I holds exclusive jurisdiction over all elevator installations and state-owned buildings, regardless of their location within Pennsylvania. In these “OPTED-OUT” areas, property owners or their contractors are required to engage certified third-party agencies to ensure compliance with the residential aspects of the UCC.
For municipalities actively participating in UCC enforcement, the applicable codes are determined by the date of construction permit application. For permits sought between February 14, 2022, and July 13, 2025 (unless a design contract predates this timeframe*), the governing standards are the 2018 International Codes, published by the International Code Council (ICC), along with specific amendments introduced by the UCC Review & Advisory Council (RAC). Detailed information regarding the adoption of the 2018 ICC standards can be found in the PA Bulletin. It’s important to note that only the initial published versions of these codes and their official errata are applicable within Pennsylvania.
*Phase-In Period from Act 36 of 2017: Act 36 of 2017 introduced a phase-in period to accommodate projects already in progress when code updates take effect. Specifically, “Where a design or construction contract was signed before the effective date [7/13/25] of regulations for a subsequent Uniform Construction Code or International Fuel Gas Code issued under this act, the permit may be issued under the Uniform Construction Code or International Fuel Gas Code in effect at the time the design or construction contract was signed if the permit is applied for within six months of the effective date of the regulation [1/12/26] or the period specified by a municipal ordinance, whichever is less.” This provision ensures a smooth transition for ongoing projects when code revisions are implemented.
Looking ahead, effective July 13, 2025, the PA UCC is set to adopt the 2021 I-Codes, as amended by the RAC. Further information regarding this upcoming code update can be accessed on the Code Update Training webpage. Staying informed about these updates is crucial for all stakeholders in the Pennsylvania construction industry to maintain compliance with the PA Uniform Construction Code.
