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Commission adopts 2024 building codes with local amendments
Summary
The commission approved adoption of the 2024 International Building Code and 2024 International Residential Code with local amendments after a code-committee review and industry outreach; certain sprinkler and occupancy thresholds were amended.
The Hays City Commission voted to adopt the 2024 International Building Code (IBC) and the 2024 International Residential Code (IRC) with local amendments after staff and a local code committee reviewed changes and consulted with local contractors.
Public Works Director Jesse Rohrer summarized a multi-step process that included a code committee of local licensed contractors, staff review of the 2018 and 2021 interim changes, and an open meeting with local builders. Rohrer said the 2015 codes were last adopted in 2017 and that the 2024 cycle addresses newer construction techniques, accessibility and energy-efficiency standards.
Rohrer highlighted several local amendments included in the adopting ordinance. One amendment preserves the city's practice on fence permits (no building permit for fences six feet or less) and another amended occupancy thresholds related to fire sprinkler requirements; staff recommended and the ordinance reduces some sprinkler triggers to align with state practice, for example changing a commercial occupant-load threshold in a provision from 100 to 300 for sprinkler triggers referenced in the discussion. Rohrer also noted the codes include provisions for tiny homes, electric-vehicle charging at homes, and rooftop solar systems.
Commission discussion covered contractor buy-in, the timing of adoption versus projects under design, and the practical effect on builders. Staff said projects already under design may proceed under their current code reference and that most commercial designers are already using newer codes in practice. Commissioner questions about fence permits and drainage were answered by staff: fences six feet or less remain exempt from building permits under local practice; fences placed within drainage easements remain subject to easement restrictions.
Commissioner Buric moved to approve Ordinance No. 4,069 adopting the 2024 IBC and IRC with the recommended amendments; Commissioner Cunningham seconded. The motion passed on a voice vote with all commissioners saying "aye." Staff said they will return with additional code updates (electric, plumbing, mechanical and fire code) in future cycles.
