Issue No. 2

Fall 2008

Georgia Code Development Procedure

Several of you have asked Jim or Wendell to describe the process involved in the development of the Georgia Electrical Code.  To make sure our answer was correct we asked Mr. Ryan Meres of the Department of Community Affairs to provide an explanation.  Below you will see his answer.

Mr. Allison:

I will try to explain the code review and approval process as clearly as possible. 

The State Codes Advisory Committee (SCAC) is a 21 member group appointed by the commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs (DCA).  The SCAC authorizes the task force to review the NEC.  The task force is appointed by the Chairman of the State Codes advisory committee.  DCA solicits various organizations with involvement in the electrical industry to serve on the task force, we also accept resume’s from anyone who contacts us with an interest in serving.  The SCAC chairman then chooses from those individuals.  The NEC Task force reviews the newest edition of the NEC and any amendments that have been proposed.  The task force members can also propose amendments as they see fit.  When the task force is completed it reports all of its findings to the SCAC including any proposed amendments that were approved by the task force and whether or not the state should adopt the next edition of the NEC. Then the SCAC votes on whether or not to approve the proposed amendments and adopt the NEC.  The SCAC has the authority to reject any proposed amendments or modify them before approval.  The SCAC then submits its recommendation to the Department of Community Affairs Board which has the final decision on approval of the proposed amendments and new code edition.  A public hearing is held prior to the DCA Board meeting and any comments on the proposed amendments are relayed to the DCA Board.  The DCA Board typically only votes up or down on whether or not to approve the SCAC recommendation.  After DCA Board approval all amendments and new code editions are submitted to the Secretary of State. 

All of the meetings mentioned above are open to the public and all interested parties are encouraged to attend.  Any interested party can submit their information to us prior to the formation of the NEC task force and we will send email updates on meeting dates, the agenda, meeting minutes and proposed amendments.

I think this should clear up the lengthy process but please let me know if I can be of further assistance.

Sincerely,

Ryan Meres, LEED AP

Building Codes Consultant

Georgia Dept. of Community Affairs

(404) 679-3109

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Phone at:    (770) 679-5085

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Watkinsville, Ga 30677