Austin Energy Code, an amended version of the 2021 IECC adopted under City Code Title 25, requires high-reflectance and high-emissivity roofing on low-slope commercial and multifamily roofs, reducing cooling loads and mitigating urban heat island effect.
Austin Energy Code Section C402.3, as amended by City Council Ordinance and codified through City Code Title 25, mandates that low-slope roofs (slope less than 2:12) on new commercial and multifamily buildings meet minimum three-year-aged solar reflectance of 0.55 and thermal emittance of 0.75, or a Solar Reflectance Index above 64. Compliance options include CRRC-rated cool roof products, vegetative roofs, or photovoltaic arrays covering most of the roof. Re-roofs replacing more than 50 percent of the membrane must also comply. Single-family homes and steep-slope roofs are exempt. The Development Services Department reviews submittals at permit. The rule complements the Austin Urban Heat Island and Climate Equity Plan strategies.
Building permit denial for noncompliant roof assemblies. Re-roof projects discovered noncompliant during inspection must replace materials, delaying certificate of occupancy. Fines under City Code 25-1 reach $2,000 per day for unpermitted work or false compliance documentation.
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