Cook County, IL Building Safety: Green Building Code (2026)
Key Facts
- Code adopted
- 2018 International Energy Conservation Code
- Applies to
- Unincorporated Cook County only
- Chapters adopted
- Ch. 1 Part 1; Chapters 2-6
- Enforced by
- Building Commissioner, Building Department
- Adopted by
- Ord. No. 21-3425, 7-29-2021
Summary
Unincorporated Cook County adopts the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code by reference for new commercial and residential construction, setting the county's baseline green building energy standards administered by the Building Commissioner.
The following provisions of the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code are hereby adopted by reference to provide the regulations with respect to energy conservation of buildings and structures in unincorporated Cook County, Illinois: Of the IECC-Commercial Provisions: Chapter 1, Part 1; and Chapters 2 through 6. Of the IECC-Residential Provisions: Chapter 1, Part 1; and Chapters 2 through 6. The above provisions are applicable in full force and effect as if set out at length in this Code.
Full Breakdown
Cook County Code Section 102-125 adopts specific chapters of the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code by reference -- Chapter 1 Part 1 and Chapters 2 through 6 of both the IECC-Commercial and IECC-Residential provisions -- to regulate energy conservation for buildings and structures built in unincorporated Cook County. Any IECC provision not on that list is excluded. The section is one of six model codes collectively titled the Cook County Building Code, administered and enforced by the Building Commissioner and Building Department, with permits required before covered construction begins.
Violations & Fines
Building without a permit covering IECC-regulated work, or noncompliant insulation, glazing or HVAC efficiency, is a Building Code violation enforced by the Building Commissioner through permit denial, inspection, or Administrative Hearings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cook County have a green building or energy code?
Does this energy code apply in Chicago or other Cook County towns?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cook County
Compare Cook County to another location·View the Illinois building safety overview
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