Committee adopts updated building, fire and WUI codes; removes WUI sprinkler mandate from state code
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Summary
The committee unanimously advanced several code bills updating the state construction and fire codes (including wildfire‑interface rules). Members said the update protects communities and can reduce insurance exposure; an automatic‑sprinkler requirement was removed from the WUI code (local jurisdictions may still require it).
SALT LAKE CITY — The Business and Labor Interim Committee unanimously advanced multiple construction and fire code bills that update Utah’s building standards to recent editions of the International Building Code (IBC), International Fire Code (IFC), and the 2024 wildland‑urban interface (WUI) code.
Representative Tom Peterson, presenting the construction and WUI bills on behalf of the Uniform Building Codes Commission, said this work results from 14–15 months of review by advisory subcommittees and is tailored to Utah by local amendments. The packages update structural, plumbing, mechanical and energy standards and reorganize overlapping business‑entity provisions into a single hub.
On wildland‑urban interface issues, Peterson said the draft adopts the 2024 edition while deleting a requirement for automatic sprinklers in WUI areas at the state level; he cautioned that local jurisdictions retain authority to adopt sprinkler requirements in their ordinances. Fire officials told the committee the code changes will improve life‑safety protections, particularly around lithium‑ion battery hazards, CO detection and multifamily housing. Park City Fire Marshal Mike Owens said the largest code changes focused on life‑safety guidance for lithium‑ion and lithium‑metal batteries and that the industry is preparing operational responses for EV and battery fires.
Fire chiefs and marshals—including representatives from Salt Lake City and Draper—testified in favor, saying the updates increase safety and provide clarity for enforcement. Representative Peterson and fire officials emphasized the need for accurate wildfire‑interface mapping at the local level to avoid applying WUI requirements where they are unnecessary and costly. Committee members noted potential cost impacts for affected homeowners but said those costs should be weighed against reduced loss and long‑term insurance benefits.
All code bills discussed were advanced as committee bills with unanimous support.
What’s next: The bills will move to session committee hearings. Sponsors and local jurisdictions are expected to coordinate on mapping, administration and enforcement details.
Speakers included Representative Tom Peterson, Mike Owens (Park City Fire Marshal), Tony Allred (Salt Lake City Fire) and Clint Smith (Utah State Fire Chiefs Association).