Cayman Islands Receives First Building Code from ICC
The International Code Council (ICC) has presented the Cayman Islands with its first Cayman-specific Building Code, designed to meet modern international standards and address local conditions. The new Code, developed in collaboration with the ICC, was presented during their December 2025 Board of Directors meeting held at Grand Old House.
Deputy Premier, Honourable Gary Rutty and Minister of Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing and Infrastructure, Honourable Jay Ebanks led the team of Government officials.
During the meeting with the ICC Board, led by President Mike Boso and Chief Executive Officer John Belcik, Cayman officials discussed next steps for implementation of the code, additional training opportunities, capacity development, and the practical phased integration of the Building Code across government agencies and industry stakeholders.
“This first branded Cayman Islands Building Code represents a significant step forward for our islands”, Minister Ebanks said. “It reflects years of collaboration, technical work and a shared commitment to building a safe and strong Cayman Islands. We are grateful to the ICC for its continued guidance as we prepare our country for the future.”
The presentation of the new Code builds on the Cayman Islands’ long-standing relationship with the Council, which began in 1994 through the Southern Building Code Congress International. The significance of the occasion and the ICC’s commitment to supporting Cayman in strengthening its regulatory and building safety framework was reflected in the strong delegation from the Council.
Speaking at the meeting, Chief Officer Eric Bush emphasised the operational value of the new code for the public service. “For our agencies, the Code provides clarity and structure to support sound decision-making. Our long relationship with the ICC has helped strengthen our internal systems and ensured that our regulatory framework remains aligned with recognised global models."
A highlight of the meeting was the Ministry’s recognition of key personnel including the Planning and Building Control leadership team, specifically Director of Planning, Haroon Pandohie, Deputy Director, Kerry-Ann Picard and Plans Examination Supervisor, Shontel Bodden whose efforts were instrumental in advancing the Code and preparing for its implementation. Corey M. Roblee was acknowledged for supporting the Cayman Islands in advancing code training, technical awareness and capacity building. The Ministry also recognised McCleary Frederick, former Chief Building Control Officer and the current Executive Director of Energy at Utility Regulation and Competition Office for his long-standing service in strengthening building safety and technical standards.
The ministry has expressed appreciation to the ICC board for hosting its meeting in the Cayman Islands and for the collaborative relationship that continues to support the islands’ long-term development.
