City Code
Building Codes
Model codes adopted by the City include: (See local ordinance for modifications)
- Iowa State Fire Code IAC 661-201
- International Fire Code 2015 (IFC)
- International Building Code 2015 (IBC) Chapters 2-7 and portions of 8
- National Electrical Code 2023 (NEC), effective July 1, 2025
- Uniform Plumbing Code 2024 (UPC)
Additional State codes applicable to all construction throughout the State of Iowa include:
- International Energy Conservation Code 2015 (IECC)
- International Mechanical Code 2021 (IMC)
- ADAAG 2010
For projects receiving public funding and/or serving specific public functions, additional state regulations may be required. Review requirements with the State Fire Marshal and Department of Public Health.
- Iowa State Fire Marshal: https://dps.iowa.gov/divisions/state-fire-marshal
- Siouxland District Health Department: http://www.siouxlanddistricthealth.org/
A licensed professional may be required for your project. The city of Spencer follows the Iowa Administrative Code definitions for “excepted” and “non-excepted” buildings. Information related to the requirements for licensed professionals’ involvement in a project is outlined in the Building Officials’ Handbook available online at: https://plb.iowa.gov/sites/files/plb/documents/Handbook%20Final%202019.pdf
Property owners are able to conduct electrical and plumbing work in their primary place of residence only in single family dwellings. All multiple family dwellings, commercial, industrial, and other buildings or structures must have a licensed electrician or plumber to complete the work for each permitted activity.
Flood Plain
Portions of the City of Spencer are designated a Flood Plain. Properties located within the designated Flood Plain have special restrictions. For more information on the City’s Floodplain Management plan refer to Title 9, Chapter 16 of the City’s Zoning Code.
Nuisance Enforcement
Grass regulations and abatement procedures may be found in Title 4, Chapter 2 of the Spencer City Code.
Zoning Regulations
The City of Spencer has adopted Land Use Zoning Regulations which described restrictions on parcels of land within the City and also prescribed the permitted and conditional uses of land within certain zoning classifications. The Zoning Regulations can be found in Title 9 of the Spencer City Code.
