Navigating U.S. Plumbing Code Changes, Part 4

Help, my Proposal was Rejected at the Code Hearing!

That stings, but here's the good news: the decision at the code hearing is usually not final. Typically, the initial code hearing is just the first chance for proponents and their supporters to present their cases. You still have more opportunities to review and influence the code changes over the next 10–12 months following the initial code hearings.

Let's look at how ICC and IAPMO handle things after the initial hearing.

For ICC, the IPC committee's decision is made and announced at the hearing. The process allows for modifications to the initial proposals and submission of comments during subsequent reviews and hearings. Overall, you'll have three opportunities to support or oppose a code change: the initial code hearing, the second code hearing (this year it's in October), and during the public review (as a member of the public), scheduled for April 2026.

IAPMO’s process is a bit different. Following the initial hearing, the UPC committee takes a formal ballot to confirm the decisions made at the hearing. This means the decisions announced at the hearing are tentative and can be changed after the committee members review the proposals and the testimonies presented during the hearing, and the decision is made by the committee in a more relaxed setting. Some decisions do get changed, and all final decisions are published several months after the initial code hearing. Following the publication of the report on comments, IAPMO solicits proposal modifications and public comments simultaneously, unlike ICC.

If you need a code change or need to oppose one, it's crucial to stay on top of the process and meet all deadlines. The deadlines will differ depending on the code developer, but they are absolutely inflexible. Miss them, and there’s no recourse. The code developers handle close to 350 proposals each three-year cycle and don't make concessions.

Here’s what to keep in mind if you need to modify your proposal:

1.     Observe the deadlines! For the 2027 code cycles, ICC will accept modifications until July 8, 2024, and IAPMO will accept modifications and public comments until January 3, 2025.

2.     Stay within the scope of the original proposal.

3.     Comply with the editorial guidelines of the developers.

4.     Understand how modifications must be shown in the text (e.g., strike out or underlined).

5.     Consider attending the second code hearing sessions.

By considering these points, you'll be better prepared to navigate the code change process effectively. With diligence and strategic participation, you can influence the outcomes and ensure that the code reflects your interests. Good luck!