Cochise County advisors begin review of 2024/2023 code cycle; energy, fire and local amendments flagged

Cochise County building-code advisers discussed beginning a multi-step review of more recent model codes during a regular meeting, with members urging study of the substantive policy changes, how they would affect construction costs, and what local amendments should be retained or revised.

The conversation was led by Paul, the building official, who opened the topic by noting other local jurisdictions are reviewing newer code cycles and that Cochise County currently operates on older codes. "We're on the 15 codes. They are a bit dated," Paul said, describing conversations he's had with Sierra Vista and a regional code-review committee.

Board members said matching Sierra Vista and other nearby jurisdictions could reduce inconsistencies for builders and emergency responders. Mark Prince said staying ahead helps avoid situations where a major prospective project cannot be permitted under an older code: "I'd rather be ahead of the game, than…