posted 2 years ago
Hi Nissa,
Most building code jurisdictions in the United States evaluate and adopt model codes from the International Residential Code Council. IRC Appendix S Strawbale Construction was approved as a model code in 2015 and has since undergone several updates. It's also now called Appendix AS Strawbale Construction.
Most states, and certainly most counties, cities, and towns don't have the resources to create their own building codes from scratch, so they adopt parts or all of model codes made available by organizations like the IRC. (There's also an IBC, and other organizations that put these codes together, often based on whether it's for residential, commercial, or institutional construction). The code writing, approval, and adoption process takes time and involves multiple hearings, opportunities for testimony and public comment. The straw bale construction model code process took the better part of ten years. Other model codes for straw-clay, cob, and hempcrete construction available through the IRC followed suit but took much less time--you might say that straw bale paved the way for these other codes.
I don't know if the state of Massachusetts or any other code jurisdictions within that state have adopted Appendix AS, but if they haven't you can still use the fact that there's a model code available in the US to support your permit application. Almost all building code jurisdictions allow for the use of "alternative means and materials," though it may require a structural engineer's stamp.
To learn if there are any completed straw bale buildings in your state I recommend you contact local builders who may know. For example, althouh New Frameworks is in Vermont, I'd be surprised if they didn't know of straw bale buildings in neighboring states. Yestermorrow, also based in Vermont, has a natural building education component--I'll wager that someone there also knows of completed projects in nearby states.
I hope that helps!
Jim
Many Hands Builders
