An elder group home shall be located in an area zoned for single-family or multiple-family housing or in an unincorporated area and shall be constructed in compliance with applicable local housing codes and the rules adopted for the special classification by the state fire marshal. In the absence of local building codes, the facility shall comply with the state plumbing code established pursuant to section 135.11 and the state building code established pursuant to section 103A.7 and the rules adopted for the special classification by the state fire marshal. The rules adopted for the special classification by the state fire marshal regarding second floor occupancy shall be adopted in consultation with the department and shall take into consideration the mobility of the tenants.