Chicago Energy Conservation Code MCC 18-13 requires reflective cool roofs on new and replacement low-slope roofs, the country's first such mandate. Minimum solar reflectance is 0.72 initial and 0.50 aged.
Adopted in 2009 as one of the nation's first cool-roof mandates, MCC Ch. 18-13 (Chicago Energy Conservation Code) requires that new and replacement low-slope roofs (slope under 2:12) on commercial and multi-family buildings achieve a minimum initial solar reflectance of 0.72 and aged reflectance of 0.50, or installation under an alternate path using ENERGY STAR cool-roof products. Steep-slope residential roofs receive less stringent reflectance requirements but must meet IECC R-values. Compliance is verified at Department of Buildings inspection through manufacturer documentation. Vegetative green roofs and reflective ballast systems satisfy the rule. Repairs covering less than 25% of roof area are exempt.
Roofs failing reflectance requirements at inspection cannot receive Department of Buildings sign-off, blocking certificate of occupancy. Building permit fines run $300 to $2,000 per violation under MCC 14B-1-113. Repeat permit violations can trigger contractor license suspension.
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See how Chicago's cool roof requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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