North Richland Hills adopts 2024 International Codes and 2023 NEC; property-maintenance code deferred

The North Richland Hills City Council voted 7–0 on Feb. 9 to adopt the 2024 editions of the International Codes and the 2023 National Electrical Code, incorporating local amendments and technical updates, while removing a reference to the International Property Maintenance Code for separate consideration.

Cody Payne, who presented the code package, said the update consolidates trade-specific standards (plumbing, electrical, mechanical, fire and building) and brings in roughly 339 technical amendments that reflect new safety research and technology. Highlights staff called out included expanded carbon-monoxide alarm requirements; updated rules for lithium-battery storage and solar installations; surge-protection requirements for dwelling units; and expanded GFCI requirements for certain kitchen appliances.

Payne emphasized the change would primarily affect new construction, major additions and significant remodels. “Building codes are not retroactive,” Payne said; “your home is legally grandfathered under the code that your house was built under.” City staff said changes triggered by a change of use for a business would be handled under state code requirements.

During the motion to adopt ordinance 39-47, councilmember (speaker 5) moved to approve with an amendment removing subparagraph k in section 98-140 (which referenced the International Property Maintenance Code). The motion passed unanimously. Staff told the council that a standalone property-maintenance code is expected to be returned for consideration in the coming months.

Council’s action aligns North Richland Hills’ codes with current construction and safety practices and is intended to harmonize requirements for new construction and significant renovations across trades.