<P> Designers use building code standards out of substantial reference books during design . Building departments review plans submitted to them before construction, issue permits (or not) and inspectors verify compliance to these standards at the site during construction . </P> <P> There are often additional codes or sections of the same building code that have more specific requirements that apply to dwellings or places of business and special construction objects such as canopies, signs, pedestrian walkways, parking lots, and radio and television antennas . </P> <P> The energy codes of the United States are adopted at the state and municipal levels and are based on the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Previously, they were based on the Model Energy Code (MEC). </P> <P> As of March 2017, the following residential codes have been partially or fully adopted by states: </P>

What is the difference between a fire code and a building code