Building Code

The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (typically referred to as the "Building Code," or the "USBC") prescribes regulations to be complied with in the construction, alteration, rehabilitation and change-of-occupancy of buildings and structures. The Building Code is administered and enforced at the local level by the County's Building Official. The Building Official is responsible for ensuring that the Building Code is applied correctly, and his qualifications and training are prescribed by the USBC. The Building Official has limited authority to approve a deviation from a Code requirement; however, any proposed deviation or modification must be accompanied by evidence that an equivalent level of safety can be achieved by specific alternative measures.

Effective July 1, 2021 the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) will be based on the 2018 ICC Model Codes with Virginia specific amendments.

Virginia State Building Code

Codes of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code

The following Codes make up the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code:
  • 2017 NEC (NFPA 70)
  • Virginia Construction Code
  • Virginia Existing Building Code
  • Virginia Industrialized Building Safety Regulations (modular buildings)
  • Virginia Maintenance Code (not adopted in Madison County)
  • Virginia Manufactured Home Safety Regulations (HUD homes)
  • Virginia Mechanical, Plumbing, Fuel Gas and Energy Conservation Codes
  • Virginia Residential Code
  • Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code

The purpose of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code is to protect the

health, safety and welfare of the public.

Supporting Documents

  1. 2018 USBC Code Change Guide (PDF)
  2. Consumer Guide to Manufactured Homes (PDF)

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