Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Building Codes topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Pacifica council adopts 2025 California building codes with local amendments; Wright objects to state limits
Summary
Council approved an ordinance adopting the 2025 California Building Standards Code and local amendments, 4–1. Council member Greg Wright cast the sole no vote, saying state rules constrained local policy responses to issues such as climate change.
The City of Pacifica adopted an ordinance on Nov. 24 to adopt the 2025 edition of the California Building Standards Code with local amendments and required findings, effective Jan. 1, 2026.
Community Development Director Samantha Updegrave summarized the triennial update, noting that the city must adopt the statewide model code and may make local amendments where allowed. The recommendation carried forward most 2022 local amendments where not superseded by state law, removed an all‑electric new construction requirement in response to litigation and added a new amendment requiring electrical outlets equal to 25% of required indoor nonresidential bicycle parking spaces.
During deliberation Council member Greg Wright restated his objection to state preemption that he said limits local approaches to issues such as climate change. Vice Mayor Christine Bowles and other members said they appreciated the deliberations and readiness to adopt the code.
Vice Mayor Bowles moved to adopt by title and waive the second reading, and Council member Beier seconded. The motion passed 4–1; Council member Wright recorded the lone no vote and said his vote reflected a desire to retain fuller local authority.
The ordinance will take effect consistent with the 2025 code cycle on Jan. 1, 2026. Staff said they are available to answer technical questions as the implementation process proceeds.
