News Flash

Sept. 21, 2022

Buda Amends City Code of Ordinances

The City of Buda proposed to update the City's building and property maintenance codes in the City Code of Ordinances to reflect the 2021 International Code Council (ICC) and the 2020 National Electric Code (NEC) and City Council approved the amendments. This process reflects up-to-date codes that should demonstrate safer buildings, less damage and lower insured losses from catastrophes. 

Buda City Council voted on the updates to the City Code of Ordinance in a second reading during its meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022. 

The proposed updates follow the Buda Fire's ICC code with amendments made in May 2021. Some of the most significant changes proposed to the City Code of Ordinances include:

Building Code

1. The City would not offer a refund after a permit has been issued
2. Automatic sprinkler systems would be required in a business or a factory exceeding 18,000 square feet
3. Increase of wheelchair space to 30 inches by 52 inches
4. Required locks to exclude intruders in businesses, educational and daycare facilities

Energy Conservation Code

1. Ceiling R-Value would increase from R38 to R49 – a change that has the potential to save residents up to 11% in energy costs

Plumbing Code

2. Restrooms would not be required to be separated by sex

Residential Code 

1. Common walls would be fire rated on both sides
2. Emergency escapes required would be a minimum width of 36 inches in a public way

Internal Property Maintenance Code

1. Home/property owners would be responsible for clearing weeds, rubbish, or unsanitary matter of whatever nature is growing between their property line and the curb line of adjacent streets and alleys.

This ordinance also updates the foundation concurrence letter for both residential and commercial as required by the City. 

"We anticipate the building code transition will be smooth and a great success," Buda Planning Director Melissa McCollum said. "City staff has been in constant contact with developers and contractors currently in construction or in the development phase of their projects to help streamline this transition."

Staff recommended to Buda City Council for this ordinance to become effective on Jan. 1, 2023. 

Please visit the City's website to view the amendments proposed to the City Code Ordinance.

The City of Buda is home to about 18,000 residents and has earned designations as a “Texas Main Street City,” “Tree City USA,” “Bee City Affiliate” and “Platinum Level Scenic City.” Buda is situated along the Interstate 35 corridor, has 14 parks and a historic downtown district where residents and visitors alike can shop, dine, relax, and breathe easy here.

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