The International Building Codes are released every three years and go into effect as each jurisdiction adopts the codes. This gives a jurisdiction time to review and make amendments to properly reflect their region or address jurisdictional issues. While it would appear that this process could lead to countless alterations of the code, most remain pretty similar. This is due to two reasons. First, national councils work hard to accommodate a universal code to fit the nation. They urge states to adopt the code with as few changes as possible.
The second and more important reason is Section 104—or the administrative chapter of the code. Section 104 provides for alternates in materials, designs and methods of construction. This is critical as it directs the full power of the code to the local building official, including changes to the prescribed code. This translates to the published code being strong but also flexible. The final and absolute power rests with the Authority Having Jurisdiction, allowing this party to accept or alter whatever it deems appropriate and may be job specific.