Council introduces ordinance to adopt 2025 California building standards; hearing set for Nov. 17

Deputy environmental services director and building official Ted Drago presented Ordinance 13-66, recommending the council introduce changes to Simi Valley Municipal Code Title 8 by adopting the 2025 California Building Standards (Title 24) by reference.

Drago told the council the adoption package reflects state model codes that will be effective Jan. 1, 2026, and highlighted the addition of the wildland‑urban interface provisions (Part 7) that will place greater emphasis on building hardening and fire-prevention standards for high‑risk areas. He noted administrative and local seismic standards previously adopted by the city would remain in force.

Councilmembers asked for clarifications about the geographic scope and specifics of the wildland‑urban interface updates; Drago said the provisions will apply to areas within the state's local high‑risk fire designation and may expand over time. Council introduced the ordinance and, following a motion, set a public hearing for Nov. 17. Staff also reported it is preparing additional guidance related to tiny homes on wheels.

The ordinance introduction does not itself change local standards; it sets up the formal public process and a second reading with a public hearing on Nov. 17.