Mississippi Electrician Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Mississippi State Building Codes and Electrician Legislation
Mississippi's building codes and electrical regulations are primarily set and enforced by local jurisdictions, with the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC) overseeing contractor licensing. While there isn't a fixed statewide code adoption cycle, the state generally follows the International Code Council (ICC) releases, typically adopting them a few years after their publication. Local municipalities have the discretion to adopt building, plumbing, electrical, and other codes by ordinance.
- Adopted Codes: Mississippi has adopted the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) as the basis for its electrical code, effective January 1, 2023. This code applies to all electrical installations statewide. For general building codes, Mississippi has adopted the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) and the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC), with state-specific amendments. Previously, local jurisdictions were required to adopt either the 2009, 2012, or 2015 International Building Code. The Mississippi Fire Prevention Code is based on the 2015 International Building Code, 2015 International Fire Code, and 2015 International Residential Code, referencing the 2014 National Electrical Code.
- Primary State Agencies: The Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC) is the primary agency responsible for issuing electrical contractor licenses. Local municipalities issue journeyman and Master Electrician licenses. The Mississippi State Fire Marshal's Office is the adopting authority for the Mississippi Electrical Code. The Mississippi Building Code Council also plays a role in the adoption and amendment of building codes.