Preparing for the 2021 UCC Transition
Beginning January 1, 2026, the City of York will enforce the 2021 Uniform Construction Code (UCC) as part of Pennsylvania’s statewide code update. All new permit applications must comply with these updated standards. For official statewide guidance, visit the PA Department of Labor & Industry UCC page.
For official details on the 2021 ICC code adoption under Pennsylvania’s UCC, see the Pennsylvania Bulletin notice (Doc. No. 25-1602).
Statewide Adoption of 2021 ICC Codes
The 2021 ICC codes were adopted into the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code through final‑omitted rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin; these regulations are effective statewide on January 1, 2026.
Additional Information
Learn more about permit requirements, inspections, and how the 2021 UCC affects your project.
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All new permit applications submitted on or after January 1, 2026 must comply with the 2021 Uniform Construction Code (UCC). Applications submitted before this date may continue under the 2018 UCC, provided they are complete and remain active under applicable review timeframes.
The 2021 UCC includes updates that may affect permit application requirements, including construction drawings, code references, energy compliance documentation, and accessibility details. Applicants may be required to revise plans or provide additional information during plan review to demonstrate compliance with the updated codes.
Inspection procedures may also change under the 2021 UCC. Required inspections, inspection sequencing, and approval criteria may differ from prior code cycles. Projects that do not meet the updated standards may experience inspection corrections, re-inspections, or delays in approval.
These updates apply to new construction, additions, alterations, renovations, and changes of use for both residential and commercial properties. Projects that transition between code cycles may be subject to additional review to confirm eligibility under the 2018 UCC.
Property owners, contractors, developers, and design professionals are strongly encouraged to review the 2021 UCC requirements early in the planning process. Understanding these changes in advance can help reduce permit delays, inspection issues, and impacts to project schedules or final occupancy approvals.
What is the 2021 UCC?
The 2021 Uniform Construction Code (UCC) is Pennsylvania’s statewide building code, updated to reflect the latest 2021 ICC standards for safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility.
When do the 2021 codes go into effect?
The 2021 UCC will be enforced in the City of York starting January 1, 2026. Applications submitted before this date may still follow the 2018 codes.
Who must comply with the new codes?
All property owners, contractors, developers, design professionals, and business owners submitting new construction, renovations, additions, or changes of use must comply.
What projects are affected?
Residential and commercial projects requiring building permits, zoning approvals, or Certificates of Occupancy submitted on or after January 1, 2026.
Where can I review the 2021 ICC code books?
You can access the official 2021 ICC code books adopted by Pennsylvania on the PA Bulletin link and the PA DLI UCC website.
Are existing permits affected?
Permits issued prior to January 1, 2026 can continue under the 2018 UCC codes. Only new applications submitted on or after January 1, 2026 must follow the 2021 UCC.
Who can I contact with questions?
For questions, contact the City of York Bureau of Permits & Inspections at 717-849-2256.
Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD)
Bureau of Permits and Inspections
101 South George St
York, PA 17401
Phone: (717) 849-2256
Fax: (717) 849-2329
