Maine Adopts New ICC Model Codes for New Construction

Carli Labrecque

On April 7, Maine updated its building codes to align with standards set by the International Code Council (ICC) in 2021. While the final code package is still awaiting official receipt by the Secretary of State, these updates will apply to new residential and commercial construction, as well as to additions and alterations to existing structures. These revisions are incorporated into the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code (MUBEC), which includes updates to the following standards:

International Building Code (IBC)

International Existing Building Code (IEBC)

International Residential Code (IRC)

International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)

International Mechanical Code (IMC)

MUBEC will apply to all buildings constructed or renovated in Maine, with specific provisions for municipalities. Municipalities with populations of 4,000 or more are required to enforce MUBEC, while those with populations under 4,000 have the option to enforce it. However, architects must still design projects according to MUBEC standards regardless of the municipality’s decision to enforce the code.

Building permit applications submitted on or after April 7, 2025 must comply with the 2021 ICC codes as amended by MUBEC, along with the energy stretch code. However, any amendment applications for permits approved under the previous code will be reviewed according to the earlier regulations, as long as the original permit remains valid.

Key Updates in the New Code

The newly adopted Model Codes include several noteworthy changes aimed at improving safety and clarifying requirements across a range of construction scenarios:

Occupant Load Factor: The occupant load factor, or number of people a space can accommodate, for business use areas increases from 100 to 150 square feet per person.

Vehicle Charging Stations: These stations must meet accessibility requirements, except in Group R-2, R-3, and R-4 occupancies. Not less than 5% of vehicle spaces on the site served by electrical vehicle charging systems, but not fewer than one for each type of electric vehicle charging system, shall be accessible.

Intermodal Shipping Containers: The code now addresses intermodal shipping containers used as buildings and structures, requiring verification of their construction, condition, and structural integrity for evaluation by structural engineers.

Fire Wall Construction: Clarifications are provided on various methods of fire wall construction.

Occupied Roofs: Changes may allow occupied roofs to be excluded from building area, height, or story limitations, and additional occupancy classifications may be allowed if the building is equipped with sprinklers.

Fire Sprinkler Systems: Fire sprinklers are now required in open parking garages with fire areas exceeding 48,000 square feet.

Special Inspections: Additional special inspection requirements are introduced for certain construction elements.

Benefits of the Updated Code

The updated building code brings a range of practical benefits for homeowners, builders, and communities, including:

Energy Efficiency: The new standards are expected to lower heating and cooling costs and promote clean energy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, households can expect to save an estimated $978 annually in the first year, with the payback period for energy efficiency investments typically under five years in most parts of Maine.

Improved Indoor Environments: Enhanced ventilation and radon protection measures will contribute to healthier indoor air quality.

Clear Guidelines: The uniform statewide code provides clarity for builders, contractors, and homeowners, ensuring consistent enforcement across municipalities.

Structural Resilience: Updated structural guidelines will help protect homes and businesses from natural disasters and long-term wear.

Important Considerations

Because there is a grace period for switching to the new codes, project teams should check with local code enforcement officers to confirm which version of the codes their specific projects will be reviewed under.

For any questions or concerns regarding compliance with the updated codes, please contact us. The new codes will be available for free online through the ICC website, and Maine-specific amendments will be posted on the Maine State Fire Marshal’s website.

Carli Labrecque is a business and asset protection attorney at Bernstein Shur, where she assists clients on a wide range of business matters ranging from construction contract drafting and reviewing, mergers and acquisitions, licensing agreements, and regulatory compliance, to personal matters such as estate planning, business succession considerations, and contracts among families. With experience in the full life cycle of both the person and the company, Carli understands the importance of helping her clients manage risk while harnessing long-term growth. Learn more about Carli here.