Can building codes still be copyrighted after adoption into law?

Nope. Courts say fair use lets you copy and share them freely. No paywalls on binding rules.

What does the Third Circuit ruling mean for UpCodes?

It's greenlit. Database stays up, making codes searchable nationwide.

Will this apply to other standards like AI safety guidelines?

Likely. If incorporated by reference, same logic: public access trumps private copyright.

Court to Copyright Trolls: Hands Off Our Building Codes

Imagine getting fined for a home reno because you couldn't afford the $100 PDF of the building code that governs it. That's over now, thanks to a sharp Third Circuit ruling.

theAIcatchup Apr 09, 2026 3 min read

Court gavel shattering a paywall over stacks of building code documents

⚡ Key Takeaways

Third Circuit rules copying incorporated building codes is fair use—no copyright barriers to law. 𝕏
All four fair use factors favored public access over private control. 𝕏
Precedent builds for treating laws as uncopyrightable facts, boosting tools like UpCodes. 𝕏

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theAIcatchup

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#Third Circuit #building codes copyright #fair use ruling #public access to law

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Originally reported by EFF Updates

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