SBCC accepts preliminary cost‑benefit reports for mechanical and plumbing codes, posts them for CR‑102
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Summary
SBCC staff presented preliminary cost‑benefit analyses for the International Mechanical Code (IMC) and Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). The council accepted both reports for inclusion in CR‑102 supporting materials, noting improvements in format and the need for additional small‑business economic data during public comment.
Council staff presented preliminary cost‑benefit analyses (CBAs) for IMC and UPC code change proposals and the council voted to accept them for use in CR‑102 materials.
Dustin and Brandon (staff) explained that each report uses a consistent template summarizing statutory requirements, stakeholder engagement, proposal‑level analysis, and a least‑burdensome‑alternative review. The IMC CBA flagged most proposals as neutral or positive net economic impact; for example, a proposed alignment of refrigerant‑shaft requirements with ASHRAE 15 was estimated to save roughly $1,000–$2,000 per piping run per floor on a typical multifamily project, according to staff estimates.
Staff acknowledged limitations: the reports lacked defensible small‑business job estimates because limited economic input was received during listening sessions, and staff plan further outreach and to commission third‑party analysis for the energy code package. Council members praised the clarity and format of the analyses but asked staff to improve stakeholder solicitation for future cycles to provide more robust small‑business and job‑impact numbers.
Motion and outcome: Ben moved to accept the IMC preliminary CBA and include it in CR‑102 materials as appropriate; Tom Young seconded. The council voted in favor. The UPC preliminary CBA was presented in the same format and accepted by motion; staff will incorporate editorial clarifications (especially EV‑charging accessibility language) before posting.
What happens next: Staff will post CBAs on the SBCC website and include references to the documents in CR‑102 filings; the council noted the documents are being retained as supporting material and that final CBAs will be added prior to final rule adoption.