Step 1: Project Design

During the design phase, the building design team develops construction documents based on the current building codes and Commerce City design standards listed below.

Current Building Codes

The 2021 Commerce City Building Code (C3BC) is now in effect for all projects. We are also under the 2023 NEC.

**For permits issued after 09/01/2026, Commerce City will begin implementing the Class A GFCI requirements found in 2023 NEC Section 210.8(F) for HVAC equipment.**

These codes establish minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety, and general welfare through and to provide safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations. The C3BC is established in Chapter 5 of the Commerce City Municipal Code, Article I - In General. Referenced therein are the following codes with city-centric amendments:

• 2021 International Building Code
• 2021 International Existing Building Code
• 2021 International Residential Code
• 2021 International Mechanical Code
• 2021 International Plumbing Code
• 2021 International Fuel Gas Code
• 2023 National Electrical Code Administration
  (there are no city amendments to the NEC)
• 2021 International Energy Conservation Code
• 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
• 2021 International Green Construction Code
• 2021 International Private Sewage Disposal Code
• Review of notable changes(PDF, 220KB)

International codes can be purchased from the International Code Council. The NEC can be purchased from the National Fire Protection Association (login required).

Technical Bulletins

• 22-01 Finished Basement Egress(PDF, 205KB)

Other Codes & Design Criteria

• Land Development Code
• Local Design Criteria

Additional Information

• Project Design Guides and Submission Requirements
• Design Professional License Look-up
• Wall Bracing Instructional Guide
• Wall Bracing Interactive Worksheet(XLSX, 920KB)
• Accessibility Fundamentals
• Energy Conservation for Residential Projects

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Next Step

Step 2: Permit Application, Contractor Licensing & Plan Review