Building Codes

The City of Mt. Vernon follows building codes to help keep construction projects safe and meet quality standards. These rules apply to most buildings in the city.

What Codes Do We Follow?

We use national and state codes to make sure buildings are built safely. These include:

• International Building Code (IBC) - 2021 Edition
• International Existing Building code (IEBC) - 2021 Edition
• International Mechanical Code (IMC) - 2021 Edition
• International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) - 2021 Edition
• International Fire Code (IFC)  - 2021 Edition
• National Electric Code (NEC)  - 2023
• NFPA 101 Life Safety Code - 2021 Edition
• Illinois Energy Conservation Code
• Illinois Plumbing Code
• Illinois Accessibility Code & Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

What You Need to Know:

• These codes must be listed on all construction plans when applying for a building permit.
• Exception: One- and two-family homes do not need to follow these codes.
• Mt. Vernon is in Seismic Design Category D, which means earthquake safety requirements must be included in applicable projects..

Local Ordinances

In addition to state and national codes, you must follow Mt. Vernon’s local building rules:

• Chapter 150, Buildings
• Chapter 153, Electrical Code
• Chapter 91, Fire Prevention and Safety
• Chapter 154, Plumbing Code
• Title 5, Public Works

Note: You do not have to list these local ordinances on your construction plans.