What Electrical Code is Virginia Under?

While Teaching Code update courses I often get the question: What code are we under in Virginia? As of today The 2009 Uniform State Wide building Code is the reference that Virginia enforces the building codes. The newest 2012 Uniform State Wide building Code is still in process of being reviewed. The cycle is done by the legislation in Richmond. Also to keep in mind Richmond is pretty much the Authority have Jurisdiction and covers the Virginia cities regarding Electrical licensing and such.The 2009 USWBC provides the electrical industry to refer to the 2008 NEC for the guidelines to follow regarding the safe installations of electrical systems in Virginia. Base on some research I have done the 2012 USWBC may go into effect around march of 2014 this would refer electrical installations to the 2011 NEC. While many states adopt the codes much quicker Virginia is sometimes a cycle behind because of the time it takes to review the many changes in the code and to make sure they are in line with the Building codes already in place. So when you are faced with the choice of do I take a the 2008 or the 2011 code update course I would recommend the 2011 as we will be under this code soon. Both will count for your education requirements for your license renewal. Well thats all for now my fellow tradesman.
Remember Stay safe and keep Surging Forward  Have a great Holiday