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Council adopts 2025 California building standards (Ordinance 4343); second reading set for Dec. 16
Summary
The Huntington Beach City Council voted 7-0 to introduce and repeal prior local code ordinances as part of adopting the 2025 Title 24 California Building Standards (Ordinance 4343); staff outlined local amendments and an implementation plan.
The Huntington Beach City Council voted unanimously on Nov. 11 to introduce Ordinance 4343, which adopts the 2025 California Building Standards (Title 24) and repeals prior local code ordinances 4268 and 4270. Fire Marshal Janice Van Mullen and community development staff reviewed the triennial adoption process, recommended local amendments, and described implementation steps including publishing updated checklists and outreach to designers and builders.
Staff recommended carrying forward most local amendments and adding two fire‑department amendments: one addressing 'valet trash' (regulating trash left in protected rated hallways) and another restricting underground supply configurations that would allow a single connection to supply both hydrants and sprinkler systems. Staff also noted the new California Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) code applies where CAL FIRE identified higher hazard zones, and Huntington Beach will not propose further local changes for the WUI code.
Councilmember questions focused on Title 24’s statewide effect on costs and the city’s ability to adopt local amendments to reflect Huntington Beach conditions. Staff emphasized that state codes are mandatory minimums and local amendments can address specific local conditions where justified. The second reading and public hearing on Ordinance 4343 is scheduled for Dec. 16, 2025; staff said the ordinance would take effect 30 days after adoption unless otherwise specified.
