Louisiana Exercises Emergency Provision to Amend Construction Code

The Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council (LSUCCC) has exercised the emergency provision in accordance with R.S. 49:953(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act, to amend LAC 17:I.107 in the Uniform Construction Code as authorized by R.S.40:1730.28. The LSUCCC has found an immediate need to adopt the language below in the International Residential Code, 2021 Edition, by amending Chapter 9, Roof Assemblies, and adopting additional language under Section R905.1.1, Underlayment.

“As we approach the 2026 hurricane season, which carries a high risk of destructive wind events and significant water intrusion—particularly at the roof’s drip edge—this amendment is necessary to ensure a watertight roofing system that performs in accordance with IBHS Fortified Standards. This amendment will serve to better protect the public and to follow national guidelines for occupants to live and work in safe, healthy, resilient environments.

The emergency rule adopted by the council on May 5, 2026, shall have the force and effect of law on June 1, 2026, and will remain in effect 180 days, unless renewed by the agency head of the council, or until permanent rules are promulgated in accordance with law.

2021 International Residential Code
Chapter 9 Roof Assemblies
Section R905.1.1 Underlayment

When a roof is installed to IBHS Fortified Standards the following shall be required:

1. Provide (minimum 26 gauge for steel) corrosion-resistant metal drip edge and fasteners at eaves and gables of shingle roofs. Overlap is to be a minimum of 3 inches (76 mm). Eave drip edges shall extend 1/2 inch (13 mm) below sheathing and extend back on the roof a minimum of 2 inches (51 mm). Drip edge shall be installed over the underlayment. Self-adhering, ASTM D1970 underlayment may be installed over a primed drip edge flange. Drip edge shall be mechanically fastened in an alternating (staggered) pattern a maximum of 4 inches (305 mm) on center.
2. Fasteners shall be galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum or copper roofing nails, minimum 12-gage [0.105 inch (3 mm)] shank with a minimum ?-inch diameter (9.5 mm) head, complying with ASTM F1667 as specified in section R905.2.5.
3. The top surface of the drip edge shall be clean, free of oil, primed with ASTM D41 primer per manufacturer. There shall be a minimum 8 inches (51 mm) width, 1/8-inch maximum thickness, of roof cement installed over the drip edge flange or the self-adhering underlayment or a self-adhering, ASTM D1970 shingle starter strip.”