Code Updates
Staying abreast of the latest building codes and related regulations is critical to architecture. Here are some resources to help.
State Building Codes
The most commonly consulted building codes in the State of Massachusetts are indicated below. An updated list can be found on the AIA Massachusetts page for State Boards and Construction Regulations.
Board of Building Regulations and Standards
The Board of Building Regulations and Standards (BBRS) monitors Massachusetts building codes and construction supervisor licensing. The Board also licenses concrete testing labs and technicians, approves manufactured buildings and related inspection procedures, approves native lumber producers, and certifies municipal building inspectors.
Board of Fire Prevention Regulations
Board of Fire Prevention Regulations (BFPR) promulgates the State Fire and Electrical Codes.
Architectural Access Board
The Architectural Access Board (AAB) develops and enforces regulations designed to make public buildings accessible to, functional for, and safe for use by persons with disabilities.
Department of Energy Resources (DOER)
The Department of Energy Resources (DOER) oversees Massachusetts Stretch Energy Codes.
Boston Municipal Codes
Key municipal codes and policies for the City of Boston are indicated below. These links are specific to the City of Boston. To find your city’s municipal codes, please look at your municipality’s website.
Planning & Zoning
Planning & Zoning (P&Z), a Division within the City of Boston’s Planning Department, manages short- and long-term planning at a variety of scales—hyper-local, neighborhood level, and citywide.
Environment Department
Boston's Environment Department is centered around Boston’s just transition to a thriving green economy and a citywide Green New Deal.
Additional Resources
Please consult the resources below for additional and in-depth information about codes and regulations that pertain to architecture in Massachusetts.
- AIA Mass.: State Boards and Construction Regulations
- AIA Mass.: AIA MA Code News
- BSA Knowledge Community: Codes Committee
- BSA News: The 2023 Energy Code Updates Are Here
- Built Environment Plus: Cracking the Massachusetts Energy Codes
- NEEP Residential Low-Rise Stretch Code Guide
- NEEP Commercial Stretch Code Guide
