California Weighs Pause on Building Code Updates to Curb Rising Housing Costs
California lawmakers are considering a proposal to freeze updates to the state’s building code in an effort to address soaring housing costs. Under the plan, updates to the code—typically revised every three years—would be suspended after the 2025 cycle, which takes effect in January 2026. The freeze would last through June 2031, giving builders a more predictable regulatory environment while policymakers assess the impact of building standards on housing affordability.
Supporters of the bill, including Assembly member Chris Ward of San Diego, argue that while safety and sustainability remain important, cost implications must also be factored into future code changes. They say frequent updates make it harder and more expensive to build homes, particularly for lower- and middle-income Californians. Critics, including environmental and fire safety groups, warn the proposal could halt progress on essential climate and resilience goals, especially in a state prone to wildfires and climate-related risks.
The debate reflects California’s broader challenge of balancing the need for affordable housing with its environmental and safety commitments. The proposal has sparked input from developers, labor unions, and advocates on both sides, as the state continues searching for policy solutions to one of the nation’s most severe housing shortages.
