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Archinet Logo Building Codes Directory for Major US Cities

New York City
Los Angeles
Chicago
Houston

This directory provides a non-comprehensive list of important building codes resources for the top 10 US cities by population, designed to help architects quickly find the information they need.

New York City

NYC Department of Buildings

Building Department: NYC DOB

Building Codes: NYC Codes

Permits: Apply for a Permit

Forms: Forms

Contact: 212-566-5000

Major City
Los Angeles

LA Department of Building and Safety

Building Department: LADBS

Building Codes: LADBS Codes, UpCodes LA

Permits: Permitting Services

Forms: Online Services

Contact: 888-524-2845

Major City
Chicago

Chicago Department of Buildings

Building Department: Chicago DOB

Building Codes: Construction Codes

Permits: Permits

Forms: Forms

Contact: 312-744-5000

Major City
Houston

Houston Inspectional Services

Building Department: Houston Inspectional Services

Building Codes: Houston Code Archive, UpCodes Houston

Permits: Permitting Center

Forms: Forms

Contact: 832-393-6600

Major City

Important Notes

Some cities may use third-party platforms like UpCodes for building codes, especially when official sites are temporarily unavailable. Please check those alternative sources if you encounter any issues.

Quick Resources

  • Building Code Basics
  • Permit Application Guide
  • Common Code Violations
  • Inspection Checklist