International Code Council releases fifth edition of National Green Building Standard

 Monday, April 27, 2026

National Association of Home Builders and International Code Council have jointly released the ICC 700-2025 National Green Building Standard (NGBS), marking the fifth edition of the country’s leading residential green building standard. Approved by the American National Standards Institute, the 2025 NGBS continues to set the benchmark for sustainable residential construction, renovation, and land development across the United States.

“The 2025 NGBS represents nearly two decades of progress and innovation in sustainable residential construction and remodeling,” said Bill Owens, a builder and remodeler from Worthington, Ohio. “This edition expands the possibilities for high-performance, resilient and low-carbon homes that meet the evolving needs of both the housing industry and homeowners.” Bill added further.

Developed by an independent consensus committee representing a diverse range of stakeholders, the 2025 NGBS incorporates the latest advancements in green design, construction, and building performance. It applies to single-family homes, multifamily buildings, mixed-use developments, land development projects, and other similarly constructed residential facilities.

“The 2025 NGBS represents nearly two decades of progress and innovation in sustainable residential construction and remodeling,” said Bill Owens, a builder and remodeler from Worthington, Ohio. “This edition expands the possibilities for high-performance, resilient and low-carbon homes that meet the evolving needs of both the housing industry and homeowners.”

“We are committed to continually advancing codes and standards,” said ICC Chief Executive Officer, John Belcik. “Together, with NAHB, we are proud to introduce this updated standard for high‑performance buildings, which is an achievement born from a longstanding, collaborative relationship.” John added further.

The NGBS promotes high performance in six critical areas:

• Lot Design, preparation and development.
• Resource efficiency
• Energy dfficiency
• Water efficiency
• Indoor environmental quality
• Operation, maintenance and building owner education.

Based on project objectives, building type, market requirements, and sustainability priorities, builders, remodelers, and developers can seek certification across multiple tiers—Certified, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Emerald—each reflecting progressively higher levels of performance in green building practices.

What’s new in the 2025 Edition?

The 2025 NGBS introduces several major updates and expanded pathways, reflecting the latest best practices in sustainable building:

• New property certification path for existing multifamily and mixed-use communities with multiple buildings.
• Expanded resilience practices to help homes better withstand natural disasters and support residents sheltering in place afterward.
• New practices to encourage low-carbon design to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Alternative energy efficiency compliance options.
• Substantially revised existing building chapter with more flexible compliance options.

International Code Council and National Association of Home Builders remain committed to equipping the residential construction industry with the flexibility to design, build, and renovate homes and mixed-use developments that are sustainable, cost-effective, and suited to regional needs. The 2025 NGBS builds on nearly two decades of proven performance, delivering a comprehensive and adaptable framework to address today’s green building challenges.

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