The 2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) is the official statewide energy code for Texas. It was adopted on September 1, 2016, and applies to all residential and commercial construction projects statewide.
Who Enforces the Texas Energy Code?
Texas does not have a single statewide enforcement agency. Instead:
✔ Local jurisdictions (cities & counties) enforce the code.
✔ Some cities, like Austin, Houston, and Dallas, have stricter local amendments.
✔ Builders must check local authority rules in addition to state requirements.
Texas follows the 2018 IECC, but local variations may apply.
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Texas Energy Code Adoption Timeline
✔ 2015 IECC adopted statewide in Texas (2016)
✔ 2018 IECC adopted as the minimum standard (September 1, 2019)
✔ Local municipalities can amend the energy code to be stricter but not weaker
🔹 The next potential update (to the 2021 IECC) is under review but not yet adopted statewide.
Key Energy Code Requirements in Texas
✅ Blower Door Testing – Required for all new homes (≤5 ACH50 for Zones 2 & 3, ≤3 ACH50 for Zone 4).
✅ Duct Leakage Testing – Required if ducts are outside conditioned space.
✅ High-Efficiency Lighting – 90% of installed fixtures must be LED, CFL, or high-efficacy fluorescent.
✅ Insulation & Windows – Must meet Texas-specific R-value and U-factor requirements based on Climate Zones 2, 3, and 4.
🔹 For more details, refer to the Texas State Energy Code Guide
📞 888-213-3975 – Local Energy Audits – Certified testing for blower doors, duct leakage, and energy efficiency compliance.
