Montgomery County, Maryland has taken a bold step toward a greener future by adopting the 2021 IBC Code Suite, including amended versions of the IgCC and energy codes, through Executive Regulation 13-24. As a long-time leader in sustainability, the County’s updated code marks a major shift-especially for projects currently pursuing permits. What does this mean for your project? More planning, more modeling, and more impact. At Lorax Partnerships, we help project teams navigate these evolving code landscapes with clarity and confidence. As expert green building consultants and energy modelers, we’re here to simplify the process and ensure your projects meet these more rigorous standards.
Be sure to tune in to Lorax’s Webinar on the MoCo 2021 Code Adoption on Wednesday, June 18th at noon, to hear first-hand from our in-house experts on what the code change means for your projects, how to navigate the optional compliance paths, ways to meet the modeling requirements, and the methods to maximize your property tax credit. Register here.
Key Takeaways for Designers, Developers, and Owners
Green Building Compliance (IgCC)
Most new commercial and multifamily projects over 5,000 GSF-and all projects over 20,000 GSF-must now comply with Montgomery County’s amended 2021 IgCC. This means:
- Earlier planning for compliance,
- Some additional upfront costs, and
- A requirement for energy modeling on most buildings to demonstrate energy code performance.
Notable IgCC compliance options for different building types:
- R-2 & R-4 buildings over 5,000 GSF and <5 stories: ICC-700 NGBS 2020 at Silver level
- R-2/R-4 mixed-use: Residential portions can follow NGBS; non-residential must follow IgCC, ASHRAE 189.1, or NGBS Chapter 13
- R-1, Non-residential, and R-1/Mixed-Use over 5,000 GSF: IgCC or ASHRAE 189.1
We recommend NGBS for most residential projects due to its clarity and cost-efficiency.
What’s New in the Amended IgCC?
Montgomery County’s amendments reflect ambitious climate goals. Some standout requirements that deviate from business-as-usual design and construction practices:
- EV-Ready Parking: 4% of commercial and 20% of residential parking
- On-site space for energy storage
- Humidity control and acoustical design
- Dynamic heat and moisture modeling
- Indoor Air Quality testing or flush-out before occupancy
Energy Code: More Modeling, More Efficiency
Unlike most jurisdictions adopting the 2021 IECC, Montgomery County has selected ASHRAE 90.1-2022, reinforcing its Climate Action Plan, increasing rigor, and putting the county on a path to Net Zero. Most projects over 5,000 GSF (and all over 20,000 GSF) must follow the Performance Path-requiring energy modeling to demonstrate compliance. This required energy modeling is one of the most complex and critical parts of the new code. It’s also where Lorax adds tremendous value.
Property Tax Credits Just Got Tougher-But Very Valuable
Montgomery County offers significant property tax credits for newly constructed energy-efficient buildings, but the bar is now higher. Projects must outperform the new energy code by at least 10% to qualify. Tax Credit Tiers:
| % Above Code | Credit Multiplier | Property Tax Credit |
|---|---|---|
| 10-20% | 0.5 | 5-10% |
| 21-30% | 1.0 | 21-30% |
| 31-40% | 1.5 | 46.5-60% |
| Above 40% | 2.0 | 82-100% |
Bonus Credits for green building certifications like NGBS, LEED, PHIUS+, BREEAM, and LBC.
| Eligible Green Building Certifications | Property Tax Credit |
| NGBS Gold, LEED Gold, PHIUS+/Passive House, BREEAM-NC Excellent (or equivalent) | 25% for 4 years |
| NGBS Emerald, LEED Platinum, LBC Petal Certification, BREEAM-NC Outstanding (or equivalent) | 75% for 4 years |
| Living Building Certification (or equivalent) | 75% for 5 years |
Example: A project that is 22% more efficient energy code and achieves NGBS Emerald earns a 97% property tax credit for 4 years.
Don’t Miss Our Upcoming Webinar
“MoCo Energy & Green Building Code Compliance Paths” – Wednesday, June 18th, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Join Lorax’s experts for a live webinar breaking down Montgomery County’s 2021 code updates, compliance strategies, and tips to maximize tax credits.
Get clear answers, practical insights, and real solutions from the pros who know these codes best. Register Now.
At Lorax Partnerships, we’re more than code experts-we’re your trusted green building consultants. We offer:
- Energy Modeling and compliance strategy
- Support across rating systems, codes, and standards: IgCC, NGBS, LEED, Passive House, BREEAM, LBC, WELL, Fitwel, Energy Star
- Services including ASHRAE audits, IAQ testing, feasibility analysis, blower door testing, and more.
Let us help you design smarter, build greener, and unlock the incentives that come with doing it right. Have a project in Montgomery County? Let’s talk.
Reach out today or sign up for our webinar to get started.