Couertsy: www.ashrae.org

Internationally, code officials and designers recognize the need for a modern, up-to-date code governing the impact of buildings and structures on the environment. This code is designed to meet
this need through model code regulations that contain clear and specific requirements with provisions that promote safe and sustainable construction in an integrated fashion with the ICC Family of
Codes. This 2018 International Green Construction Code (IgCC) is the first fully integrated edition
of the IgCC to be developed cooperatively by ICC and ASHRAE. (See Forward on page iv.)
This comprehensive green code establishes minimum regulations for building systems and site
considerations using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. It is intended to be compatible with all of the International Codes (I-Codes) published by the International Code Council
(ICC), including the International Building Code, International Energy Conservation Code, International Existing Building Code, International Fire Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Mechanical Code, ICC Performance Code, International Plumbing Code, International
Private Sewage Disposal Code, International Property Maintenance Code, International Residential Code, International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, International Wildland-Urban Interface
Code and International Zoning Code.
This code has been developed in collaboration with the following Cooperating Sponsors: The
American Institute of Architects (AIA); ASHRAE; the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC); and the
Illuminating Engineering Society (IES). ICC wishes to thank these Cooperating Sponsors for recognizing the need for the development of a comprehensive set of green regulations that are enforceable,
usable and adoptable.
The I-Codes, including this International Green Construction Code, are used in a variety of ways in
both the public and private sectors. Most industry professionals are familiar with the I-Codes as the
basis of laws and regulations in communities across the U.S. and in other countries. However, the
impact of the codes extends well beyond the regulatory arena, as they are used in a variety of nonregulatory settings, including:
• Voluntary compliance programs such as those promoting sustainability, energy efficiency
and disaster resistance.
• The insurance industry, to estimate and manage risk, and as a tool in underwriting and rate
decisions.
• Certification and credentialing of individuals involved in the fields of building design, construction and safety.
• Certification of building and construction-related products.
• U.S. federal agencies, to guide construction in an array of government-owned properties.
• Facilities management.
• “Best practices” benchmarks for designers and builders, including those who are engaged in
projects in jurisdictions that do not have a formal regulatory system or a governmental
enforcement mechanism.
• College, university and professional school textbooks and curricula.
• Reference works related to building design and construction.
In addition to the codes themselves, the code development process brings together building professionals on a regular basis. It provides an international forum for discussion and deliberation
about building design, construction methods, safety, performance requirements, technological
advances and innovative products.