From the Preface:
Introduction
Internationally, code officials recognize the need for a modern, up-to-date residential code addressing the design and construction of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses. The International Residential Code, in the 2003 edition, is designed to meet these needs through model code regulations that safeguard the public health and safety in all communities, large and small.

This comprehensive, stand-alone residential code establishes minimum regulations for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses using prescriptive provisions. It is founded on broad-based principles that make possible the use of new materials and new building designs. This 2003 edition is fully compatible with all the International Codes (I-Codes) published by the International Code Council (ICC), including the International Building Code, ICC Electrical Code Administrative Provisions, International Energy Conservation Code, International Existing Building Code, International Fire Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Mechanical Code, ICC Performance Code, International Plumbing Code, International Private Sewage Disposal Code, International Property Maintenance Code, International Urban-Wildland Interface Code and International Zoning Code.

The International Residential Code provisions provide many benefits, among which is the model code development process that offers an international forum for residential construction professionals to discuss prescriptive code requirements. This forum provides an excellent arena to debate proposed revisions. This model code also encourages international consistency in the application of provisions.

Development
The first edition of the International Residential Code (2000) was the culmination of an effort initiated in 1996 by a development committee appointed by the ICC and consisting of representatives of the three statutory members of the International Code Council: Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc. (BOCA), International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO) and Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI) and representatives from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The intent was to draft a comprehensive, stand-alone residential code consistent with and inclusive of the scope of the existing model codes. Technical content of the 1998 International One- and Two-Family Dwelling Code and the latest model codes promulgated by BOCA, ICBO, SBCCI and ICC was utilized as the basis for the development, followed by public hearings in 1998 and 1999 to consider proposed changes. This 2003 edition presents the code as originally issued, with changes approved through the ICC Code Development Process through 2002 and residential electrical revisions based on the 2002 National Electrical Code (NFPA 70). A new edition such as this is promulgated every three years.

Fuel gas provisions have been included through as agreement with the American Gas Association (AGA). Electrical provisions have been included through an agreement with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 70).

With the development and publication of the family of International Codes in 2000, the continued development and maintenance of the model codes individually promulgated by BOCA (BOCA National Codes), ICBO (Uniform Codes) and SBCCI (Standard Codes) was discontinued. This 2003 International Residential Code, as well as its predecessor—the 2000 edition, is intended to be the successor residential code to those codes previously developed by BOCA, ICBO, and SBCCI.

The development of a single set of comprehensive and coordinated family of International Codes was a significant milestone in the development of regulations for the built environment. The timing of this publication mirrors a milestone in the change in structure of the model codes, namely, the pending consolidation of BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI into the ICC. The activities and services previously provided by the individual model code organizations will the responsibility of the consolidated ICC.

This code is founded on principles intended to establish provisions consistent with the scope of a residential code that adequately protects public health, safety and welfare; provisions that do not unnecessarily increase construction costs; provisions that do not restrict the use of new materials, products or methods of construction; and provisions that do not give preferential treatment to particular types of classes of materials, products or methods of construction.

The 2003 International Residential Code is also available in looseleaf or on CD-ROM. Click here to order tabs for the 2003 International Codes.

Request your complimentary copy of the Seismic Design Parameters CD-ROM, FREE with your purchase of the 2003 International Building Code or International Residential Code. It contains Earthquake Spectoral Response Acceleration Maps that will assist you with the Building and Residential Codes. Prepared in conjunction with the U.S. Geological Survey, Building Seismic Safety Council, and Federal Emergency Management Agency, E.V. Leyendecker, A.D. Frankel, and K.S. Rukstales. Ask for Item 8016CD in the Special Instructions box of your online shopping cart or order form.

To view the complete table of contents for the International Residential Code, click here .

We also have commentaries and handbooks, workbooks and flash cards, extended indexes and tabs available. The code is also available as part of a set, or on CD-ROM. A complete list of the 2003 International Codes can be found here.