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Houston, TX Environmental Rules: Cool Roof Requirements (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Reflectance minimum
0.55 aged or SRI 64
Emittance minimum
0.75 thermal emittance
Climate zone
ASHRAE zone 2A
Trigger threshold
25% roof replacement
Authority
Houston Chapter 28 Energy Code

Summary

Houston Energy Code amendments to Chapter 28 require low-slope commercial roofs to meet minimum solar reflectance and thermal emittance values, reducing heat absorption and lowering cooling demand in the citys hot, humid climate.

Sec. 388.003. ADOPTION OF BUILDING ENERGY EFFICIENCY PERFORMANCE STANDARDS. (a) To achieve energy conservation in single-family residential construction, the energy efficiency chapter of the International Residential Code, as it existed on May 1, 2001, is adopted as the energy code in this state for single-family residential construction. On September 1, 2016, the energy efficiency chapter of the International Residential Code, as it existed on May 1, 2015, is adopted as the energy code in this state for single-family residential construction.

Source: City of Houston Code of OrdinancesView official code

Full Breakdown

Houston adopted the International Energy Conservation Code with local amendments addressing the regions cooling-dominated climate zone 2A. Commercial buildings with low-slope roofs must use roofing materials carrying a minimum three-year aged solar reflectance of 0.55 and thermal emittance of 0.75, or meet a Solar Reflectance Index of 64. Alternative compliance allows additional insulation in lieu of cool-roof products. Single-ply membranes, coatings, and tile products certified by the Cool Roof Rating Council typically qualify. Permits for re-roofing projects above 25 percent of roof area trigger compliance review by the Houston Permitting Center under building inspection.

Violations & Fines

Permit denials, stop-work orders, and certificate of occupancy holds apply to non-compliant projects. Civil penalties under Chapter 28 can reach 2,000 dollars per violation per day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cool roof rules apply to homes?
Residential roofs follow IRC requirements without strict cool-roof mandates, though high-reflectance shingles qualify for energy code credits in compliance calculations.
Can I substitute insulation?
Yes. Houstons amendments permit added roof insulation as an alternative to reflective surface materials, provided the project meets equivalent UA performance.

Sources & Official References

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