Louisiana

Louisiana adopted 2021 ICC codes effective January 1, 2023 (energy code amendments effective July 2023). Counties are called "parishes" in Louisiana. The state has THREE wind zones: Zone I (north, up to 70 mph), Zone II (central/south, up to 100 mph), Zone III (coastal, up to 110 mph). Coastal parishes have enhanced hurricane requirements. The New Madrid Seismic Zone affects northwest Louisiana (Caddo, Bossier, Webster, Claiborne, DeSoto parishes). Much of southern Louisiana is in flood-prone areas — FEMA flood zone compliance is critical. The LSUCCC (Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council) oversees statewide code adoption. ICC 600 (Standard for Residential Construction in High Wind Regions) applies in coastal parishes. Post-Katrina (2005) and post-Laura (2020) building code improvements significantly strengthened coastal construction requirements.