Specialized Municipal Opt-in Energy Code and Model Rule

(1) Recommended Process. The Department has published a model rule and other guidance in order to assist Participating Communities in achieving the objectives of the Demonstration Project. The Department recommends that cities or towns seeking to participate in the Demonstration Project: (a) Adopt the Specialized Municipal Opt-in Energy Code, as established in 225 CMR 22.00: Massachusetts Stretch Code and Specialized Code 213 for Low-rise Residential and 225 CMR 23.00: Massachusetts Front-end Amendments to the International Energy Conservation Code 2021 Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code – 2023 Commercial Amendments to IECC2021; and (b) Adopt through Local Approval the model rule published by the Department. (2) Model Rule. The model rule published by the Department ensures appropriate integration with the Massachusetts Specialized Municipal Opt-in Energy Code. If a Participating Community determines that adoption of a local by-law or ordinance that differs from the model rule published by the Department is necessary, the Participating Community shall provide information as described in 225 CMR 24.04(1)(b) in its application. (a) A Participating Community may modify the model rule provided by the Department, provided such modifications do not conflict with the requirements of 225 CMR 24.00 or the requirements of St. 2022, c. 179, § 84. (b) Deviations from the model rule provided by the Department must include exemptions from fossil fuel free requirements for Research Laboratories for Scientific or Medical Research, or for Hospitals or Medical Offices.