Zoning codes deal with social order and regulate how land is used – what type of uses are allowed on properties in various locations within a community. For example, a zoning code might not allow a bar or nightclub to be located near a school or senior housing development. Individual communities develop their own, local zoning code, and these codes can vary a great deal from one city to the next.
The International Fire Code and the International Building Code deal with life safety: They both provide minimum safeguards for people at home, at school and in the workplace. They regulate how buildings are constructed and used on properties. The IFC and IBC are part of the International Codes, or I-Codes, published by the International Code Council. All I-Codes are model codes and standards used to design, build and maintain pro safe, sustainable, affordable and resilient structures.
Most communities in Colorado have adopted the IFC and IBC. In fact, the I-Codes are utilized by jurisdictions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. While many jurisdictions approve local amendments (modifications) in their I-Codes, these codes are almost identical in every community.
The code provisions are intended to protect public health and safety while avoiding both unnecessary costs and preferential treatment of specific materials or methods of construction. By having known, consistent codes throughout a region, construction professionals can save time and money on their projects.