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Orange council adopts 2021 international building codes, sets March 1 changeover for new permits
Summary
The City Council of Orange voted unanimously to adopt a package of 2021 International Codes and the 2023 National Electrical Code, and set March 1 as the changeover date; permits issued before that date remain under the previous code cycle.
The City Council of Orange voted to adopt multiple 2021 editions of the International Code Council (ICC) model codes and the 2023 National Electrical Code, and to update related sections of the city code of ordinances. Councilmembers present voted aye on the motion after a presentation from city staff outlining the proposed changes.
The ordinance package covers the International Residential Code (2021), International Building Code (2021), International Existing Building Code (2021), International Plumbing Code (2021), International Fuel Gas Code (2021), International Mechanical Code (2021), International Energy Conservation Code (2021), International Property Maintenance Code (2021), the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (2021), the International Fire Code (2021), and adoption of the 2023 National Electrical Code with local amendments. The package also restores a construction board of appeals and adds provisions such as flood-resistant construction and regulations for manufactured homes and parks.
City staff said the new cycle brings coverage for items not well defined in the city's current codes, including tiny homes, 3D-printed houses, container structures, guidance on electric vehicle and solar battery installations, and updated pool-construction safeguards. The staff presentation noted the energy code will require third-party inspections for insulation and building envelope tightness.
City staff recommended a March 1 changeover: permits issued before that date will be completed under the older code; permits pulled on or after March 1 will follow the 2021/2023 code cycle. That grandfathering date was confirmed on the record during the meeting.
Council members asked about adopting the newer 2024 code cycle; staff said the city prefers to follow larger municipalities that adopt and troubleshoot new cycles before smaller cities follow. Staff also described plans for a construction board of appeals broadened to include qualified professionals from Orange County and surrounding counties so the board can include architects and trade specialists when needed.
Council voted unanimously to adopt the ordinance package as presented. The ordinance also includes standard severability and penalty clauses and repeals conflicting ordinances.
The change will affect permit applicants, contractors, property owners, and rental housing operators. Staff said the city held three town-hall meetings for contractors and invited public comment during the code-draft process prior to the council vote.
Council action recorded: motion made and seconded; Miss McKenna, Mr. Chandler, Mr. Charles, Mr. Burch and Ms. Hennigan recorded as voting Aye. The motion passed.
