Maine Energy Code Repeal Legislation Introduced
On January 11, a bill (HP 36 LD 43) was introduced in the Maine Legislature that would repeal the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code (MUBEC). A hearing on the bill is scheduled for April 7 before the House Committee on Labor, Commerce, Research and Economic Development. Other legislation has been introduced to delay, modify, or alter the application of the MUBEC.
After the legislative establishment of the MUBEC in April 2008 by LD 2257 (enacted as P.L. 699), the Bureau of Building Codes and Standards (within the Department of Public Safety) issued regulations setting the 2009 IECC and ASHRAE 90.1-2007 as the mandatory energy standards for residential, commercial, and public buildings statewide.
The MUBEC became effective June 1, 2010, although there was a six-month transition period during which towns may could still enforce their previous codes. Among the new rules:
- Towns with a population of 2,000 that had a building code on August 1, 2008 were required to begin enforcing the code December 1, 2010.
- Towns with a population of 2,000 that did not have a building code on August 1, 2008 will be required to begin enforcing the code December 1, 2012.
- Towns with a population under 2,000 are not required to enforce the code.
- The MUBEC replaces all local municipal building codes. Cities and towns may not amend any MUBEC provisions, even to make it more stringent.
- Enforcement is the responsibility of local jurisdictions. Municipalities without a CEO certified by the State Planning Office may authorize a Third-party Inspector to conduct compliance inspections and prepare a report to be given to the municipal CEO as an application for the Certificate of Occupancy.
More Information: HP 36 LD 43: Home & Text | Bureau of Building Codes and Standards | MUBEC FAQs | SPO Code Enforcement & Training | P.L. 699
