WASHINGTON, DC — California-based homebuilders are applauding the signing of legislation that contains a series of “pro-housing provisions,” including a six-year pause on adopting or amending new home building codes in the state.
The legislation, recently signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom, contains provisions aimed at addressing the state’s housing affordability crisis and easing the frustrations of Los Angeles residents who have been seeking building permits after losing their homes in wildfires earlier this year.
According to the California Building Industry Association (CBIA), the legislation prevents California from considering, approving, or adopting any changes to residential building codes until June 1, 2031, except in emergency situations or in the case of wildfire mitigation. The bill further prevents local municipalities from amending their code during the same period.
“This is a huge win for us, and for home buyers and renters in the state,” said Chris Ochoa, CBIA’s senior counsel for codes. “It remains to be seen if these provisions can be expanded to other states, but California’s change of direction on building codes and permit reviews can be seen as a sign that anything is possible if there’s political will.”