Council advances residential-code update and sets hearing on shipping-container rules

Staff presented a first reading of an ordinance to readopt the 2021 edition of the International Residential Code with local modifications that preserve existing safety standards for bedroom egress, pool fencing and a residential fire-sprinkler exemption for single-family homes under 8,000 square feet. A primary local change would raise the maximum allowed detached garage on a floating concrete subfloor or slab from 720 to 900 square feet, while maintaining engineering and minimum-thickness requirements. "This is being seen throughout the state of Iowa as a standard, and it does save local residents quite a bit of money by allowing it to go up to the 900 square foot," staff said.