Codes - As enacted, clarifies that, as of July 1, 2025, the roof solar reflectance and thermal emittance requirements of the International Energy Conservation Code for low-sloped roofs do not apply to the 2021 International Code Council adoption; authorizes the state fire marshal to promulgate rules to that effect. - Amends TCA Title 68, Chapter 120.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ed Jackson

Tennessee will not apply the 2021 ICC roof solar reflectance and thermal emittance requirements for low-sloped roofs, with the State Fire Marshal authorized to implement this exemp

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 149

#codes

Title

Codes - As enacted, clarifies that, as of July 1, 2025, the roof solar reflectance and thermal emittance requirements of the International Energy Conservation Code for low-sloped roofs do not apply to the 2021 International Code Council adoption; authorizes the state fire marshal to promulgate rules to that effect. Amends TCA Title 68, Chapter 120.

Purpose and intent

To clarify and codify that Tennessee will not apply the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requirements for roof solar reflectance and thermal emittance on low-sloped roofs as adopted by the 2021 International Code Council (ICC) edition.

To delegate and authorize the State Fire Marshal (SFM) to establish and maintain statewide building construction safety standards, including energy-related provisions, while exempting the specified IECC roof requirements for low-sloped roofs.

Key provisions

New provision added to TCA 68-120-101(l):

For low-sloped roofs, the roof solar reflectance and thermal emittance requirements of the IECC (as published by the ICC) do not apply in Tennessee.

Effective date:

The act takes effect upon becoming law, with the exemption applicable to the 2021 ICC adoption (as amended in the fiscal note) and implemented consistent with the SFM’s authority.

Administrative role:

The State Fire Marshal is empowered to promulgate rules to reflect this exemption and to maintain or update statewide construction safety standards as part of existing duties.

Who is affected

Builders, developers, building owners, and designers in Tennessee constructing or retrofitting low-sloped roofs may be affected, as the specific IECC solar reflectance and thermal emittance requirements will not apply to them for the 2021 ICC edition.

State Fire Marshal’s office will oversee standards related to this exemption and ensure alignment with safety and energy provisions within its purview.

Local governments and building officials may reference the exemption in relevant building codes and permitting processes.

Procedural and timeline notes

Legislative history indicates companion House Bill 801 and Senate Bill 1194 progressed through standard committee and calendar steps, with final enactment reflected in 2025 actions.

Fiscal impact:

Not significant. The fiscal note indicates the change will not impose substantial costs on the State Fire Marshal’s Office or local governments and will not meaningfully affect commerce or jobs.

Implementation:

The exemption applies to low-sloped roofs and relates specifically to the 2021 ICC edition adopted provisions.
Local ordinances or resolutions to adopt the exemption would occur at regularly scheduled meetings.

Fiscal impact (summary)

Overall: Not significant.

Assumptions: The SFM can implement and update standards within existing resources; no major regulatory or cost burdens anticipated for state or local governments or for commerce.

If you want, I can add a quick comparison of how this differs from current law or provide a plain-language briefing for non-technical audiences.

Bill