11 adopted codes · 41 cities tracked
No statewide building code agency — local jurisdictions enforce their own codes. State Fire Marshal oversees fire code. Architecture Practice Act defaults to 2018 IBC for architects.
International Building Code (IBC)
Commonly adopted by local jurisdictions — no statewide mandate
International Residential Code (IRC)
Commonly adopted by local jurisdictions
International Fire Code (IFC)
Commonly adopted by local jurisdictions
International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Commonly adopted by local jurisdictions
International Mechanical Code (IMC)
Commonly adopted by local jurisdictions
International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
Commonly adopted by local jurisdictions
International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
Commonly adopted by local jurisdictions
International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC)
Commonly adopted by local jurisdictions
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
Varies by jurisdiction
National Electrical Code (NEC/NFPA 70)
Commonly adopted by local jurisdictions
ICC 500 - Storm Shelters
Referenced for tornado shelter design
Missouri operates without a mandatory statewide building code, granting local jurisdictions authority to adopt and enforce their own regulations. This has led to a fragmented regulatory landscape. The Architecture Practice Act defaults to the 2018 IBC for architects. Senate Bill 743 and House Bill 2870 ("Missouri Building Codes Act") were proposed to create a statewide system but did not pass. Eastern Missouri is in the New Madrid Seismic Zone (Seismic Design Category C in St. Louis area). Missouri is in Tornado Alley — storm shelter requirements are critical. The state spans Climate Zones 4A (southern/central) and 5A (northern). Design wind speeds range from 90-115 mph. Snow loads range from 15-25 psf. Kansas City and St. Louis have the most comprehensive local code adoption.