City of Fort Worth – Residential and Commercial Green Building Requirements

In March 2011, the City of Fort Worth made a significant step towards promoting energy efficiency and sustainable building practices by adopting the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with specific amendments. This move aimed to establish a robust building energy code for the city, setting standards for energy efficiency in construction projects.

Subsequently, in compliance with state laws and regulations, the City of Fort Worth updated its residential building energy code. As of now, the city implements the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code for residential buildings, incorporating specific amendments tailored to the local context. This newer code version represents an advancement in energy conservation practices and aligns with contemporary standards in the field.

For commercial building energy code compliance, the City of Fort Worth offers flexibility by allowing the use of two different codes. Commercial projects within the city can adhere to either the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code with amendments or the 2013 ASHRAE 90.1. This dual-code approach provides options for builders and developers, allowing them to choose the code that best fits their project requirements while still meeting the state’s energy conservation mandate.

ASHRAE 90.1, developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, serves as an alternative to the IECC for commercial buildings. It provides guidelines and standards for energy efficiency in the design and construction of buildings, emphasizing factors such as HVAC systems, lighting, and building envelopes.

Overall, the City of Fort Worth’s commitment to energy efficiency is reflected in its adoption and implementation of updated building energy codes. These codes serve as essential tools to regulate and enhance energy performance in both residential and commercial constructions, contributing to the city’s broader sustainability goals and aligning with state regulations aimed at promoting energy conservation and responsible building practices. The continuous evolution of building energy codes underscores the city’s dedication to staying current with advancements in energy-efficient technologies and methodologies.