Texas statutes, administrative rules, and local ordinances occasionally adopt, incorporate, or refer to technical codes published by independent organizations.

These codes describe scientific and safety standards for structures and discuss specifications for construction practices, electrical systems, plumbing fixtures, fire safety, and many other topics.

Note The library cannot help determine which codes apply to your specific project.

Adopted by Reference

Even though they are incorporated as law, building codes are not reprinted within the law itself. Instead, they are “adopted by reference.” This means that the law will name the code and its publisher, but you must access the code itself elsewhere.

Where to Find Codes

We link to online editions on the publisher's website whenever possible. In addition, some local governments publish the codes and any local amendments on their website.

You may not always find the code online due to copyright restrictions from the publisher. If not online, check with your city clerk's office, a code enforcement or planning department, or a local public library to view the code.

Disclaimer: Our listing of adopted codes is not comprehensive. We have attempted to include the most common adopted codes. State laws quoted on this page are not the official versions of the law. See the Texas Constitution and Statutes website.