Code Level
- Commercial Energy Code - 2015 IECC, with amendments (effective 5/1/2018)
- Residential Energy Code - 2009 IECC, with amendments (effective 1/1/2016)
- To see how Wisconsin's residential energy code differs from the model code, click here.
Authority
Authorized by – Statute. The commercial building energy code is authorized by Wisconsin Statutes 101.027 where it lists requirements for rule promulgation, department oversight, and code updates. The residential energy code is authorized by Wisc Stat 101.62 through powers granted to the Uniform Dwelling Code Council.
Oversight – Code oversight in Wisconsin is through the Department of Safety and Professional Services.
Code Change Process – Regulatory and Legislative. The Office of Codes and Applications in the Department of Safety & Professional Services reviews, proposes and approves code changes after a public comment process. Adopted code changes are then approved by legislative committee. As of amendments implemented in Wisconsin's 2011 fiscal budget, all code changes to the Universal Dwelling Code that would increase the cost of the home by more than $1000 are required to go through a full legislative process for approval (Wisc Stat 227.137(3)(f)).
Code Change Cycle - Every three years for commercial (Wisc Stat 101.027(3)(a)2), concurrent with updates to the model energy code. The energy code for residential buildings does not have a set update cycle.
Compliance
Enforcement – Standards in SPS Chapters 363 and 367 (commercial and rental buildings) may be changed by local governments or agencies by ordinance only if the alternatives are as stringent as those in the referenced code. SPS Chapter 322 requirements must be applied without local modification. Code inspections are performed by local code officials. If the local jurisdiction does not have code enforcement, an inspection should be done by the Department of Safety & Professional Services (commercial) or by an agency or delegate approved by the Department (residential). Enforcement powers lie with the Department of Safety & Professional Standards.
Implementation/Compliance Studies – Starting in 2024, residential, commercial and multifamily field studies are underway in Wisconsin. Stay tuned for results once all data is collected.