Planning & Building

2019 Building Code Updates

New California Building Standards Code Changes Take Effect on January 1, 2020

Every three years, the State of California adopts new building codes (known collectively as the California Building Standards Code) to establish uniform standards for the construction and maintenance of buildings, electrical systems, plumbing systems, mechanical systems, and fire and life safety systems.

Beginning January 1, 2020, the County of San Luis Obispo Department of Planning and Building is required by state law to enforce the 2019 Edition of California Building Standards Codes (also known as Title 24 of the California Codes of Regulations).

For more information about state-mandated changes, please visit the Building Standards Commissions Codes website. 

The California Building Standards Code consists of the following 13 parts. More detailed information on each section can be found on the International Code Council website.

An Informational Workshop Took Place on December 10, 2019. The PowerPoint from that meeting can be found through the link below: 

Building Code Workshop Presentation

An explanation of the State and County laws regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) can be found through the following link:

Frequently Asked Questions about ADUs 

Details about the changes in Title 19, the Building and Construction Ordinance for the County of San Luis Obispo can be found using the link below. Changes take effect January 1, 2020. 

Significant Changes to Title 19