CODE COMPLIANCE & Permits
Iowa's primarily uses model building codes:
- International Building Code (IBC)
- International Residential Code (IRC)
For Permits and Compliance: Contact your local city or county building department to find out which specific code version (like the 2021 IBC, for example) they have adopted.
climate zone
CZ 5 (Climate Zone 5)
- Location: The majority of Iowa is in Climate Zone 5.
- Climate: This is a "cold climate" zone, with cold winters and warm, humid summers.
- Building codes: Residential building energy codes based on the IECC are in effect for construction in this zone.
CZ 6 (Climate Zone 6)
- Location: Pockets of Climate Zone 6, which is colder than Zone 5, exist in the northern and northeastern parts of Iowa.
- Climate: This zone experiences an even colder, more severe winter than Zone 5, with very cold temperatures.
- Building codes: Structures built in these pockets must adhere to the more stringent energy code requirements for Zone 6.
How zones are used
Governing regulations:
The climate zones are used by builders and contractors to determine the insulation requirements for different parts of a home, such as the walls, attic, and foundation.
Specific requirements:
Buildings in the northern pockets of Zone 6 will have higher insulation standards than those in the rest of the state that fall under Zone 5, as they need to withstand colder winter temperatures.