Massachusetts 780 CMR

[Hyrax4978]

I have been asked to do a generic programmatic layout/code review for a project in Massachusetts. The state website says the building code is 780 CMR, but then says its based of IBC 2015. Is the 780 essentially the same as the 2015 IBC but just with the listed amendments?

Also under the amendments it seems to reference other codes such as 780 CMR 13.00 or 521 CMR etc etc. I am a little confused if the website states they are based off 2015 IBC what these other codes are.

Is there an easy explanation? or am i just overthinking this?

Thank you,

 

[mark handler]

CMR=Commonwealth of Massachusetts Regulations
780 = the number in the Regulations for the Building Code

 

[RLGA]

780 CMR 13 refers to Chapter 13 of the building code, which is energy efficiency and references the IECC. 521 CMR is their version of an accessibility standard, which replaces IBC Chapter 11 and ANSI A117.1.

Here’s a link to the website for the building code: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/ninth-edition-of-the-ma-state-building-code

 

[steveray]

Yep...just like CT, they IBC base and then modify with their "regulations" I think they call their energy section the "stretch" code..

 

[ADAguy]

Mass was one of the first states to address access in their building code pre-ADA.