Ordinances establishing regulations for the construction of buildings, the installation of plumbing, electric wiring or similar work, where such rules and regulations have been printed in book form, may be adopted in whole or in part by reference thereto without further posting thereof; provided, however, that not less than three copies of such code have been filed, for use and examination by the public, in the office of the clerk of said city prior to the adoption thereof. (Prior code § 1.16.020)