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Dallas County moves to require passive radon systems in new single- and two-family homes
Summary
On June 16 the Dallas County Board reviewed second consideration of an ordinance amending the county construction code to require passive radon mitigation in new single- and two-family homes, aligning local rules with state House File 2297 and noting per-home cost estimates of $350–$500.
The Dallas County Board of Supervisors on June 16 advanced local adoption of a change to the county construction code requiring passive radon mitigation systems in new single-family and two-family homes.
The measure, Ordinance 2026-0016, would amend Chapter 47 to adopt Appendix AF of the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) and thereby implement the requirements of recently enacted Iowa House File 2297, which directs the state building code to require passive radon controls in new single- and two-family construction.
David N. Hockett, director of Planning & Development, summarized the background and recommended approval in a staff memo: "Staff recommends APPROVAL of the Ordinance," the memo states. The memo and ordinance text note that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rates Iowa as a Zone 1 area—indicating the highest potential for elevated indoor radon concentrations—and describe the typical passive system elements (gravel base, vapor retarder, vertical exhaust pipe routed through the roof, and sealing around penetrations).
County staff estimated in the memo that installing a passive system during new construction typically adds about $350 to $500 per dwelling, and that retrofitting an existing home with an active fan system is often substantially more expensive. The memo also says installing mitigation during initial construction is usually more cost-effective and reliable than later retrofits.
The documentation provided with the ordinance includes the House File 2297 statutory text directing adoption of IRC Appendix AF; the transcript materials record the second consideration and supporting staff report. The transcript does not include a roll-call vote tally; county materials accompanying the item include dated ordinance text and administrative sign-off dated June 16, 2026.
Next steps listed in county materials identify a final adoption procedure consistent with local ordinance rules: if not waived, additional readings may be required before the ordinance becomes effective.
