Des Moines does not impose a mandatory green building code beyond Iowa's adopted IECC energy code, but the 2024 Climate Action Plan promotes voluntary high-performance standards, EV-ready wiring, and electrification incentives for new construction.
Iowa adopts the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) statewide under Iowa Code Chapter 103A, setting minimum insulation, window, lighting, and HVAC efficiency requirements for new buildings in Des Moines. Beyond that floor, the city's 2024 Climate Action Plan encourages voluntary measures, including LEED, ENERGY STAR Multi-Family, and Passive House paths, EV charging readiness, solar-ready roofs, and heat-pump installations. Some city-funded affordable housing and capital projects must meet enhanced sustainability standards by policy. State law preempts local energy codes that exceed the state-adopted version, so private developers cannot be forced beyond the IECC, but they can earn incentives or expedited review for green features.
Failing to meet the state-adopted IECC during plan review or inspection delays certificate of occupancy, while voluntary green commitments tied to incentives may be clawed back if not delivered.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines does not have a standalone tenant anti-harassment ordinance. Tenant protections come from Iowa Code 562A.36 retaliation rules and federal Fair Hou...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines allows ADUs in its neighborhood districts under Municipal Code Chapter 134, with building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits through De...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Chapter 134 historically required the owner to live in either the main house or the ADU, backed by a recorded affidavit. Since July 1, 2025, Iowa ...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments on residential property. Chapter 60 (Housing) requires reasonable property maintenance and could ...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Chapter 48 (Noise) standards could theoretically apply to overnight blow...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Display timing, brightness, and animation are governed primarily by HOA and cond...
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