ROCHELLE – The City of Rochelle adopted the 2021 International Code Council building codes along with the Illinois Plumbing, Accessibility, and Energy Conservation codes Monday night. This change follows a new Illinois law that sets minimum building standards across the state to improve safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency. Rochelle has been working with 30 nearby communities to create a unified building code for the region. Existing local rules about foundations, floodplain levels, ventilation, and permits will be kept and updated to fit the new codes. Some new technical requirements, like blower door testing and better energy performance, are required by the state and apply everywhere in Illinois. The new codes go into effect July 1st.
