Thinking Like a Developer

Preparing for 2024 IBC Drive Aisle Requirements

Drive Aisle at Sunset landing

The International Building Code (IBC) serves as a foundational framework for construction standards across the United States. Developed by the International Code Council (ICC), the IBC is updated every three years to reflect advancements in building practices, safety protocols, and technological innovations. Local jurisdictions adopt these updates to ensure projects meet current safety, accessibility, and operational standards.

Planning and designing development projects often takes years. The time between initial concept and submitting plans for permits can span multiple code cycles, meaning a project designed under one IBC edition but submitted under a newer edition may require adjustments to remain compliant. A notable example is the 2024 IBC’s change to drive aisle widths. If you’re currently in the site planning phase—or about to begin—it’s especially important to understand these upcoming changes so your design doesn’t need costly revisions later.

Previously, 90-degree parking aisles required a minimum width of 24 feet. The 2024 edition increases this to 26 feet, reflecting updated recommendations from the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) to accommodate modern vehicle sizes and improve maneuverability.

Drive AISLE at Topaz industrial complex

Implications for Developers

1. Permitting Considerations

   Projects in design or awaiting permits may face delays if plans don’t comply with updated requirements. In many cases, even small code changes can trigger the need for redesigns, revised engineering, and updated documentation—all of which add time and cost to the approval process. Revising finalized designs can be especially challenging on sites that were carefully optimized for space efficiency. These adjustments not only strain budgets but can also push project schedules back significantly, impacting everything from financing to tenant commitments.

2. Site Layout and Efficiency

   Increasing drive aisle width by two feet may seem minor, but this change can affect parking counts, circulation, building size and placement. Developers must balance maximizing usable space while maintaining code compliance.

3. Design Constraints

   Wider aisles can create ripple effects across the project. Beyond the possibility of needing more land—which, as we know, isn’t always available—developers must consider building setbacks, landscaping, and access points. These fixed limits can restrict how much the site can be adjusted, making early planning essential—whether that means submitting for permits before the 2024 IBC is adopted or proactively designing drive aisles at 26 feet.

Plans showing 24ft and 36ft wide drive aisles, highlighted in pink

Planning Ahead: Developer Checklist

• Confirm Local Adoption Dates

  Clark County has not yet officially adopted the 2024 IBC, but we have heard rumors that the code may take effect as early as 2026.

  • Note: Even though the code is labeled “2024 IBC,” local adoption often takes 1–2 years. This delay allows time for local amendments, public hearings, training for officials, and a transition period for developers to adjust plans without major redesigns.

• Coordinate Early with Design Teams

  Evaluate how the 26-foot drive aisle requirement impacts parking, circulation, and building placement.

• Assess Site Limitations

  Check lot size, setbacks, and access points. Consider angled stalls, shared drives, or structured parking for constrained sites.

• Plan Flexibility

  Include alternative layouts to accommodate code updates without major redesigns.

• Coordinate with Permitting Authorities

  Ensure submissions align with current or upcoming code requirements to prevent delays.

Our Developer-First Approach

Brandise Construction doesn’t just build for clients—we develop our own projects. This gives us a unique perspective: we think like developers on every project. We understand the trade-offs, timing challenges, and space optimization pressures that developers face, including how changes like the 2024 IBC aisle width increase can impact site efficiency and project costs. This perspective allows us to proactively identify potential issues, propose creative solutions, and help our clients navigate design and permitting challenges with confidence.

The 2024 IBC’s drive aisle change underscores the importance of proactive planning. Developers must anticipate code shifts and integrate them into early design decisions to avoid costly revisions, maximize efficiency, and maintain functional, code-compliant projects. Working with a contractor like Brandise, who approaches every project with a developer’s mindset, ensures projects are optimized, code-compliant, and delivered smoothly from concept to completion.