NEW MASSACHUSETTS ENERGY STRETCH CODE IN EFFECT AS OF

JULY 1, 2011

The Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code which was adopted at the 2011 Annual Town Meeting will be implemented starting July 1, 2011; however please note that it will run concurrently with the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for six (6) months.  This means that the user has the option of using either the Stretch Energy Code or the 2009 IECC to achieve compliance with the energy conservation provisions of the Massachusetts Building Code, 780 CMR.  On January 1, 2012, the Stretch Code will be the only option available to the developer and homeowner.

It is important to note that the Stretch Code is not a stand-alone code but rather it is the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with Massachusetts Amendments.  The Stretch Code can be found in the Massachusetts State Building Code, 780 CMR under Appendix 115.AA. 

When using the Stretch Code, the user must also reference the 2009 IECC to comply with code requirements not addressed in the Stretch Code.  Also, certain buildings exempt from the requirements of the Stretch Code must still comply with the 2009 IECC.