This chapter of the International Building Code® (IBC®) references the International Energy Conservation Code® (IECC®) for provisions regulating the design and construction of buildings for energy efficiency. The IECC sets forth minimum requirements for new and existing buildings by regulating their exterior envelopes. In addition, it addresses the selection of heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning; service water-heating; electrical distribution; and illumination systems and equipment in order to provide for efficient and effective energy usage.

The IECC contains two separate sets of provisions, one for commercial buildings and one for residential buildings. Each set of provisions is applied separately to buildings within their scope. The IECC—Residential Provisions apply to all detached one- and two-family dwellings and town houses as well as Group R-2, R-3, and R-4 buildings three stories or less in height above grade plane. All other buildings are regulated for energy efficiency under the IECC—Commercial Provisions.