City council approves updated building standards code
Second reading set for Nov. 4
– The Paso Robles City Council on Tuesday voted unanimously to introduce an ordinance adopting the 2025 California Building Standards Code with minor local amendments. The action keeps the city in compliance with state law. The item will return for a second reading on Nov. 4.
The State of California updates its building standards every three years, and the 2025 edition will take effect statewide Jan. 1, 2026. Cities are required to enforce the new rules but may make limited modifications to address local conditions such as heat, seismic activity or terrain.
City staff recommended approval to ensure Paso Robles remains aligned with state requirements and avoids enforcement gaps. Projects submitted before Jan. 1, 2026, will continue under the 2022 code; all new building permit applications filed after that date must meet the updated standards.
Local amendments approved Tuesday are minimal. Most changes simply update references from “2022” to “2025” and clarify which state codes apply. Technical revisions include:
Fire Department Connections: requiring rigid couplings on check valves to strengthen connections and improve testing reliability.
Forward Flow Test Connections: adding extra outlets to make sprinkler system testing faster, more accurate and less wasteful.
Electric-Vehicle Charging Restrictions: prohibiting EV charging stations in underground, sub-level and multi-story parking garages. Staff said the restriction is based on local heat, seismic activity and limited access in enclosed structures, which make EV fires more difficult to control.
Staff noted that the updates stem from state-level mandates. The motion to approve, made by Councilmember Steve Gregory and seconded by Councilmember Kris Beal, passed unanimously. Councilmember Fred Stong was absent.
The full agenda and staff report are available at pub-pasorobles.escribemeetings.com.
