Louisiana § RS 40:1730.21 - Public policy for state uniform construction code

§ RS 40:1730.21. Public policy for state uniform construction code

A.  The public policy of Louisiana is to maintain reasonable standards of construction in buildings and other structures in the state consistent with the public health, safety, and welfare of its citizens.

B.  This Part is enacted to enable the state of Louisiana to promulgate a state uniform construction code to govern the construction, reconstruction, alteration, and repair of buildings and other structures and the installation of mechanical devices and equipment therein.  The state uniform construction code shall establish uniform performance standards providing reasonable safeguards for health, safety, welfare, comfort, and security balanced with affordability for the residents of this state who are occupants and users of buildings, and will provide for the use of modern methods, devices, materials, and techniques.  The state uniform construction code will encourage the use of construction materials of the greatest durability, lower long-term costs, and provide greater storm resistance.

C.  To clarify the intent of the legislature and address questions which might arise or have arisen with respect to provisions of the nationally known codes which have been or are in place, only those portions or provisions of the nationally known building and safety codes which relate to building standards and safety are binding upon a state or local governmental entity or agency which adopts the building and safety codes authorized or required by this Part.

D.  To further clarify the intent of the legislature, this Part continues to apply to a person who may act under authority of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections and that the allocation of inspection duties among local officials is not dictated by this Part but remains a matter for the local authority.

E.  To secure these purposes, the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council shall certify a person performing building codes enforcement including building officials, plans reviewers, and inspectors.

Acts 2005, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 12, §2, eff. Nov. 29, 2005.