Building Code Update – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Effective January 1, 2026
Adoption of the 2024 Building Codes and the 2023 National Electrical Code

The Town of Oro Valley adopted the 2024 Building Codes and the 2023 National Electrical Code effective January 1, 2026 (Exception: 2018 IECC)

 

The following questions explain how the code transition affects building permit applications and permits.

Which building codes apply to my project?

The applicable code depends on when your application was submitted and whether the permit remains active.

 

I submitted my permit application before January 1, 2026. Which code applies?

If your permit application was submitted before January 1, 2026, it may be reviewed under the 2018 Codes, provided that:

  • The application was complete at the time of submittal (no missing required items), and
  • The application or permit remains active (not expired or abandoned).

 

I submitted my permit application on or after January 1, 2026. Which code applies?

All permit applications submitted on or after January 1, 2026 will be reviewed under the 2024 Codes.

 

My application was submitted before January 1, 2026, but the permit is issued after that date. Does the 2024 Code apply?

No. If the application was submitted prior to January 1, 2026, the permit may still be issued under the 2018 Codes, even if issuance occurs after the effective date, as long as the permit remains active.

 

What happens if my 2018 Code permit expires or is abandoned after January 1, 2026?

If a permit approved under the 2018 Codes expires or is abandoned on or after January 1, 2026, the permit must generally be updated to comply with the 2024 Codes in order to be re-activated.

In limited cases, the Building Official may allow re-activation under the 2018 Codes (for example, if inspections were completed prior to expiration).

 

Can I revise a permit that was originally issued under the 2018 Codes?

Yes. Revisions to permits originally issued under the 2018 Codes may continue to be reviewed under the 2018 Codes, even if the revision is submitted after January 1, 2026, provided the permit remains active.

 

Can I request an extension for a permit reviewed under the 2018 Codes?

Yes, with the following limitations:

  • If the permit has not yet been issued: One 90-day extension may be granted without requiring updates to the 2024 Codes.
  • If the permit has already been issued: One 180-day extension may be granted without requiring updates to the 2024 Codes.

Additional extension requests under the 2018 Codes may be considered on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the Building Official.

 

What does “active” mean?

An active application or permit is one that has not expired or been abandoned in accordance with Town regulations.

 

What does “grandfathered” mean?

Grandfathered means a project may continue under the 2018 Codes if it was submitted before January 1, 2026, and has remained active.

 

Who makes the final determination on which code applies?

The Building Official retains discretion to determine code applicability in unique or transitional situations

 

 

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