The Division of Building Codes and Standards (DBCS) was created to provide administrative and technical support to the Technical Building Codes and Standards Board; education, certification, and capacity building for Code Officials; and assistance for contractors and design professionals. A key goal of the Division is to promote enforcement uniformity in order to streamline processes and accelerate construction timelines.
DBCS also provides the public with code information and leverages building codes to assist Mainers to increase the resilience of their homes and businesses while promoting energy and cost efficiency.
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Why are building codes important?
Building codes establish minimum standards that protect life safety, public health, and property by ensuring buildings are structurally sound and resistant to fire and environmental hazards. Building codes also promote disaster resilience by incorporating lessons from past events, providing consistency and predictability for construction professionals, and serving as a form of consumer protection for owners, tenants and visitors.
What is the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code (MUBEC)?
MUBEC is the standard that applies to most building construction within the State of Maine. It includes construction codes for new and existing residential and commercial buildings. MUBEC also provides criteria for meeting energy efficiency goals and healthy indoor air quality practices.
What does MUBEC enforcement entail?
All municipalities with a population greater than 4,000 are required, by statute, to enforce the MUBEC. Municipalities with a population under 4,000 may choose to enforce the MUBEC. Compliance with the MUBEC is mandatory and the responsibility of the building owner, regardless of whether a building is located in a municipality that enforces the MUBEC.
What editions of these codes and standards has Maine adopted?
The Technical Building Codes and Standards Board is required by statute (Title 10 MRS Section 9721 et seq.) to periodically update and the MUBEC. The current code editions and amendments are listed in the MUBEC Rules, Chapters 2-8 and can be found on the Code Enforcement Rules page.
Are there any other rules that may apply?
Yes. Maine’s plumbing code and electrical code, along with other building-related codes, can be found at the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation. There are also National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) laws; failure to comply with these laws is a crime. Maine’s Fire Code (NFPA 1) and Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) along with other Fire and Life Safety standards can be found at the Fire Marshal’s Office.
Not what you’re looking for? Email info.moca@maine.gov or call the MOCA phone line and we’ll connect you with what you need.