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Altoona council approves requirement for basements in new detached single‑family homes, effective Jan. 1, 2026
Summary
Council adopted an amendment to Chapter 168 on Oct. 20 requiring basements in new detached single‑family residential construction, with the ordinance set to take effect Jan. 1, 2026; the measure passed unanimously (5-0).
The Altoona City Council approved an amendment to Chapter 168 on Oct. 20 that requires basements in newly built detached single‑family homes. Community Development Director John Shaw told the council the requirement "will become effective after January 1, 2026." The ordinance readings and vote to publish passed unanimously, 5-0.
John Shaw presented the change during a public hearing; the hearing opened and closed at 6:32 p.m. with no public comment. The amendment to the zoning code updates the district regulations to require basements for new detached single-family residential construction beginning Jan. 1, 2026.
The transcript does not record detailed discussion of potential cost or construction impacts, nor does it record requests for exemptions or phased compliance. The council adopted the ordinance by roll call and directed publication according to city procedures.
