New Codes Adopted (Effective 10/5/2023)

Seabrook City Council recently approved Ordinance No. 2023-20 adopting the 2021 ICC  and 2020 NEC Code Editions. The codes adopted are as follows:

• 2021 International Building Code with amendments
• 2021 International Residential Code with amendments
• 2021 International Plumbing Code with amendments
• 2021 International Mechanical Code with amendments
• 2021 International Gas Code with amendments
• 2021 International Energy Code with amendments
• 2021 Property Maintenance Code with amendments
• 2021 International Fire Code with amendments
• 2021 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code
• 2020 National Electrical Code with amendments

Construction Codes

Construction is subject to the ICC and NEC codes editions adopted by City Ordinance (Chapter 18) The IFC and Life Safety Code adopted by City Ordinance (Chapter 34),  Floodplain regulations adopted in (Chapter 38) and other ordinances of the City of Seabrook.  The city also reviews for compliance with applicable State and National regulations, with the most restrictive code being enforced.

Note: the the City of Seabrook has adopted by ordinance a Design Wind Speed of 150 MPH (Ultimate) wind speed under guidelines set forth in the 2015 IRC, IBC, and ASCE 7-10.  These regulations apply across the entire city to all new construction, addition and renovation projects. 

ZONING IN SEABROOK

Zoning regulations were first adopted in Seabrook on May 4, 1993. Check with Planning for any city ordinances or zoning regulations that may affect or restrict your project. Requirements regarding lot size, height, and setback lines are listed in the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.

DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS

Subdivision development and infrastructure regulations area administered buy the City Engineer.  For specific engineering requirements and standards see Engineering. 

STATE REGULATIONS

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) must review commercial projects with a valuation greater than $50,000 for Texas Accessibility Standards. [Texas Senate Bill No. 484] Contact ADA at (800) 803.9202. Building permit applications will not be accepted for construction covered by this law unless TDLR verifies the required review.

Both commercial Engineering Standardsand residential projects must show compliance with the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code. [Texas Senate Bill No. 5] Model Energy Code (MEC) compliance information may be obtained at (800) 270.2633.

No public or commercial building may be demolished or renovated without an asbestos survey, which must be conducted before the building permit is approved. [Texas Senate Bill No. 509] Information and assistance may be obtained from the Texas Department of Health at (800) 572-5548 or (512) 834.6610.

Deed Restrictions

Deed restrictions are not enforced by the city. Check with your subdivision’s homeowners associations (HOA) for a copy of the deed restrictions and any rules or regulations that are enforced in your area.