City of Dallas - Residential and Commercial Green Building Requirements

In April 2008, the City of Dallas enacted a Green Building Program (see Ordinance No. 27131), which required all new buildings to meet enhanced energy efficiency standards. The program was implemented through two phases. Phase 1 became effective October 1, 2009, and Phase 2 became effective October 1, 2013 (as amended by Ordinance No. 28813).

Notably, Dallas became the first U.S. city to adopt the 2012 International Green Construction Code (with amendments) for new commercial construction. Dallas now implements the 2015 International Green Construction Code (with amendments, hereafter Dallas Green Construction Code) as mandatory for commercial construction.

Residential Buildings

2015 International Residential Code: Dallas implements the energy provisions of the 2015 International Residential Code for 1- and 2- family construction effective September 1, 2016. 

Commercial Buildings

2015 International Green Construction Code: Dallas implements the 2015 International Green Construction Code (with amendments, hereafter Dallas Green Construction Code) as mandatory for commercial construction.