An update on the 2018 building codes

Earlier this year, the City of Linn Valley updated its building codes from the 2006 editions to the 2018 editions, adopted by the Council through Ordinance 284 on September 28, 2026.

It was time. Our codes were about 20 years old. Newer standards do a better job addressing things like tiny homes and solar installations — and our Building Inspector can no longer even get certified on the 2006 editions, because certification testing for codes that old is no longer offered.

When I ran for Mayor, accountability was at the center of what I promised — and accountability isn’t only for the good days. It means owning it when the City comes up short. So here is where we came up short: the City did not do a good enough job communicating this change. Our website and permit materials weren’t updated when the new codes were adopted, and contractors and residents deserved clearer, earlier notice. That’s on the City — and as Mayor, on me — and we’re correcting it.

Before we begin enforcing the 2018 standards, we’re taking a few steps: mailing notice to every contractor on the City’s approved list, updating the building permit package to clearly identify the adopted codes, including a brightly colored notice with permit materials, and updating the website. Until that’s done, I’ve directed our Building Inspector to temporarily hold enforcement of the transition — so no one is held to a standard the City didn’t clearly communicate.

To be clear: we are not going back to the 2006 codes. This is about giving people fair notice, not reversing the decision.

I’ve put together a full FAQ that answers the common questions — why we updated, why we chose the 2018 editions (rather than automatically the newest ones), when enforcement will begin, and where to find current requirements:

Read the 2018 Building Codes FAQ →

If you have a project in the works, please contact City Hall before you begin, so we can confirm the permits, inspections, and code requirements that apply.