Council adopts emergency building-code amendments to preserve local reach-code gains; AC-to-heat-pump rule delayed to 2027

The Palo Alto City Council unanimously adopted emergency local amendments to the municipal building code to preserve local reach-code elements and make administrative clarifications required by state timing rules.

Staff said the expedited action was necessary because of state legislation (AB 130) that temporarily limits certain local changes to residential building standards unless cities take timely steps. Palo Alto’s emergency ordinance reestablishes two climate-oriented local amendments and clarifies two administrative definitions so the city may carry the rules forward in the upcoming code cycle.

Key changes adopted

- Air-conditioner replacement rule (effective 2027): The ordinance requires that, beginning in 2027, when a home’s air conditioning is replaced the project must either install a heat pump sized to be the primary heating source for the home or implement a suite of energy-efficiency measures (attic insulation, air sealing and other options). Timothy Scott, resource planner, described the rule as a way to “future proof” homes so customers who replace equipment will be better positioned for forthcoming appliance regulations.

- Remodel flex path (1,000 sq. ft. threshold): Remodels larger than 1,000 square feet must meet a 12-point standard by selecting measures from a flexible list (measures have…