Who is a member?
Our members are the local governments of Massachusetts and their elected and appointed leadership.
The Board of Building Regulations and Standards, in collaboration with the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, on April 28 ended the public comment period on a “stretch” energy code, developed in response to the call for improved building energy efficiency in Massachusetts, that would become part of the state’s building code.
The proposed option under the building code will provide standards for both residential and commercial construction, although small commercial buildings (less than 5,000 square feet) are exempt. Residential renovations and additions are also covered, though with separate standards appropriate for this type of construction.
By adopting the “stretch” code locally, communities will qualify as a “green community” under the Green Communities Act.
Many experts believe the standards are attainable using current construction technology and will be cost-effective.
The stricter code also realigns the costs versus benefits of energy-efficient construction. Builders will now have a stake in future cost savings, and the regulations require builders to design and build in ways that will minimize future operational expenses.
The new option under the building code will also include the use of third-party certification in the residential sector to reduce the burden on local building officials and to ensure faithful execution of plans. The auditor will have oversight and verify the efficiency measures.
State law gives the eleven-member BBRS authority to adopt and administer the building code. The members of the BBRS comprise the Building Code Appeals Board for the purposes of deciding appeals of interpretations of the Building Code made by building officials and other officials. The BBRS also certifies and educates local building officials.
The new “stretch” code is expected to be adopted by the BBRS in May and available for implementation by this summer.
The draft code, along with a summary, can be viewed on the BBRS Web site.
At the MMA Annual Meeting in January, members overwhelmingly approved a new energy policy and adopted a resolution on a progressive energy plan for cities and towns. The energy policy indicates the support of cities and towns for optional local bylaws and ordinances that require higher development standards.