History of building code updates

Lakewood has used various building codes since its incorporation in 1969, starting with the Colorado Building Code in 1970 and then switching to the Uniform Building Code. In 2000, the city adopted the International Building Codes. The city has used the international codes to update the city's building codes every three years until 2009. Since then, the city has adopted new codes every six years because of the complexity and volume of the building codes.

In 2018, Lakewood adopted the 2015 International Suite of Building Codes. These 2015 codes are currently used in Lakewood with the exception of the 2020 National Electrical Code and the 2018 International Plumbing and Fuel Gas Codes, which were adopted according to a state mandate.

Lakewood is currently considering the adoption of the 2021 International Suite of Building Codes.