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Board pauses local energy performance code pending state code updates
Summary
The Board voted to pause development of a county energy performance code after staff noted the state energy code will change within months; staff will coordinate with cities and return with options so local reach codes do not delay building activity.
The Board of Supervisors voted March 18 to pause development of a local energy performance code and instead wait for the state’s updated energy code, while directing staff to coordinate with neighboring cities so regional builders have consistent rules.
Community Services Director Jesus Armas and Planning staff told the board that the statewide energy code will be updated and that tools and software expected in the first half of 2025 will make implementation and compliance simpler for the development community. Staff said the county can revisit reach-code options after the state changes take effect and that coordination with the cities of Goleta and Santa Barbara would reduce jurisdictional variation that confuses builders.
Supervisor comments emphasized a desire to support transition to electrification but not to impose new local requirements that could stall building permits; the board voted to accept staff’s recommendation to pause and return after the state code is published and to continue regional coordination.
