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Jefferson County adopts 2018 building codes, approves modest fee increases and new permit items
Summary
The board adopted the 2018 International Building Codes and approved revised fee schedules that include a 5% valuation bump, a $100 minimum demolition fee (with small-structure exemptions), a permit-extension fee and new mechanical and tower-related permit items.
Jefferson County commissioners on Oct. 6 adopted ordinance 2025-10 to incorporate the 2018 International Building Code series (including the International Residential, Mechanical and Fuel Gas codes) into county code and approved related fee updates.
County staff said the building-code fee schedule had not been updated in more than 20 years and proposed modest increases and several new fee items to reflect inspection and administrative costs. The building official summarized the changes, including a 5% increase in valuation used for several building fees, a $100 minimum demolition permit (freestanding structures under 200 square feet may be exempt from demolition permits), updated valuation tables for commercial mechanical permits, and a permit-extension fee to allow a permit holder to extend an in-force permit rather than reapply.
"The building code fees have not been changed on that fee schedule in more than 20 years," the building official said, explaining the need to align fees with current costs. Staff also proposed a small increase to the GIS/mapping fee, a charge for moving structures, and a new fee for change-of-occupancy reviews on commercial properties.
Commissioners asked whether proposed fees were comparable with neighboring counties; staff said the schedule is in line with Madison and Bonneville counties. The board passed ordinance 2025-10 and approved Resolution 2026-01 (building-code fee schedule) on roll call.
The board also approved Resolution 2026-02, updating planning and zoning fees (Chapter 106 and related chapters) to add items such as short-plat fees, re-review fees, zoning certificates, addressing fees and a property-status request process. Planning staff said the changes formalize previously uncharged services and add a modest technology/GIS surcharge to applications. Commissioners said they will monitor implementation and contractor feedback as the fees take effect.
