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Enid staff propose automatic adoption of updated International Codes; new sewer backflow requirement floated
Summary
City staff told the commission they want ordinances that automatically adopt the state-updated versions of the International Existing Building Code, plumbing, fuel gas and mechanical codes; a separate proposed plumbing change would require backflow/backwater valves on all new construction and service-line alterations.
City code officials briefed the Enid Mayor and Board of Commissioners Nov. 4 on proposed ordinances to align the city's building- and trade-code references with state adoption and on a proposed plumbing change that would require sewer backflow (backwater) valves on new construction.
A city presenter summarized the proposal as an "automatic adoption" mechanism: the ordinances would reference the state-adopted codes so that when the Oklahoma Uniform Building Code Commission adopts a newer edition (for example, moving from the local 2018 standard toward the state's 2023/2024 updates), the city's references would update in concert. The presenter also said the ordinances include a tiered violation fine structure.
On plumbing, staff proposed updating the local code from a 2014 reference to a 2024 reference and adding a requirement that backflow/backwater valves be installed on all new construction (both commercial and residential) and when sewer services are changed. Staff explained the trigger language in the draft: if a downstream manhole is lower than the service line, a backflow preventer is required; the stated intent is to prevent sewage backups into buildings.
Commissioners asked practical questions about builder notifications and inspection practices. The presenter said notices would be posted in the newspaper and on building-department bulletin boards and that inspectors and the homebuilders group would be informed in advance. The mayor and others noted the devices are relatively inexpensive hardware items, while labor may be the costlier component.
Commissioners and staff also discussed a 50/50 retrofit program for existing construction referenced in the draft code; staff said that program appears rarely used and may need review before being applied more broadly. The item remained in the study-session phase for further consideration and possible formal ordinance introduction at a later meeting.
Next steps: staff will post the proposed ordinance as required, coordinate outreach to builders and stakeholders, and return with final ordinance language for potential adoption when state action occurs.
