What Is the Virginia Construction Code (VCC)?
If you've been researching Virginia contractor licensing, you've probably come across the term Virginia Construction Code (VCC).
It's easy to confuse the VCC with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), but they are not exactly the same thing.
The simplest way to think about it is this:
The Virginia Construction Code (VCC) is Virginia's building code for new commercial construction. It is one of the Virginia code books developed from the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC).
Understanding this distinction makes it much easier to understand Virginia's contractor exam references and code books.
Where Does the VCC Come From?
As explained in What Is the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC)?, Virginia adopts model building codes developed by the International Code Council (ICC) and adds Virginia-specific administrative requirements and amendments.
ICC then publishes fully integrated Virginia code books that combine the model code with Virginia's adopted requirements.
One of those publications is the Virginia Construction Code (VCC).
How Virginia building codes are made, from ICC model codes to the USBC and integrated Virginia code publications.
What Is the VCC Based On?
The Virginia Construction Code is based on the International Building Code (IBC).
Rather than requiring users to reference the International Building Code and a separate list of Virginia amendments, ICC publishes a fully integrated Virginia Construction Code that includes Virginia's adopted administrative provisions and amendments within the code.
In other words, the VCC is Virginia's version of the International Building Code.
Is the VCC the Same as the USBC?
No.
This is one of the most common points of confusion.
The USBC is Virginia's statewide building code system.
The VCC is one of the Virginia code books created under that system.
Think of it this way:
The USBC establishes Virginia's building code requirements.
The VCC is the integrated publication based on the International Building Code (IBC) that contains those Virginia requirements for new building construction.
Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably in conversation, they do not mean exactly the same thing.
Why Does the VCC Exist?
Before ICC began publishing Virginia-specific code books, users often worked with an International Code together with Virginia's separate amendment documents.
Today, ICC publishes integrated Virginia editions that combine everything into one publication.
This makes it easier to use a single reference instead of switching between multiple documents.
Do All Contractors Use the VCC?
Not necessarily.
The Virginia Construction Code is only one of several Virginia code books.
Virginia also has publications based on other International Codes, including the:
Virginia Residential Code (VRC)
Virginia Plumbing Code (VPC)
Virginia Mechanical Code (VMC)
Virginia Fuel Gas Code (VFGC)
Virginia Existing Building Code (VEBC)
Which publication you need depends on the work you're performing or the contractor examination you're taking.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Not exactly.
The Virginia Construction Code is based on the International Building Code (IBC) but includes Virginia's adopted administrative provisions and amendments.
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No.
The USBC is Virginia's statewide building code system.
The VCC is one of the integrated Virginia code publications created under that system.
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ICC publishes the integrated Virginia Construction Code.
Virginia also provides official amendment documents through the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).
Key Takeaway
The Virginia Construction Code (VCC) is Virginia's integrated building code for new construction. It is based on the International Building Code (IBC) and includes Virginia's adopted administrative provisions and amendments.
Understanding what the VCC is—and how it differs from the broader USBC—will make it much easier to understand Virginia contractor exam references and choose the correct code books.
