Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Building Codes topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Goodyear adopts 2024 International Building and Fire Codes with local amendments
Summary
Development services staff presented the proposed 2024 international building and fire codes; council adopted two ordinances establishing the technical code updates and local amendments and set implementation grace periods for builders.
The Goodyear City Council on March 23 adopted updates to the city's building and fire codes, approving two separate ordinances to adopt the 2024 International Codes with local amendments.
Katie Wilkin, the city's development services director, introduced Chief Building Official Cheryl Mullis and Interim Fire Chief Tim Wayne to explain the changes and stakeholder process. Mullis said staff delayed adoption to align with neighboring jurisdictions and that the International Code Council updates on a three-year cycle. She said staff worked with local stakeholders and the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona, which provided a letter of support.
Mullis described several local changes intended to streamline processes: wider heaters installed by licensed contractors will no longer require permits, and residential reroofing will no longer require permits, reducing cost and process burdens for homeowners. At the same time, the proposed code would require permits for all retaining walls regardless of height, a more restrictive change. Staff said the fire department will provide a 30-day implementation period and the building division will provide 90 days; homebuilders will be given a one-year grace period to submit standard plans updated to the new code.
Council asked about applicability for projects already under review; staff said site plans in review will be given a 90-day transition and builders may request an alternate method if needed. Council also asked whether the new fire code addresses lithium-battery storage in garages; staff said the 2018-to-2024 code updates include significant new provisions and that the fire marshal would confirm residential specifics, but Mullis indicated spacing and location requirements are addressed.
The council adopted Ordinance No. 2026-16-46 (technical code amendments) and Ordinance No. 2026-16-47 (fire code adoption) by 7-0 votes.
Staff will publish implementation guidance for builders and HOAs and follow up with forums and communications to stakeholders.
