Downey Council adopts 2025 California Building Standards Code with local organizational amendments

Downey officials voted to adopt five ordinances implementing the 2025 edition of the California Building Standards Code, including local amendments tailored to the city’s climatic, topographic and geologic conditions. Assistant Fire Chief and Fire Marshal Dan Rasmussen told the council the statewide updates include strengthened wind and seismic design loads, wildfire‑resistant construction standards, and expanded “electric‑ready” provisions in the energy code to support state climate goals.

Rasmussen said Downey’s local amendments are primarily organizational — reorganizing and clarifying municipal code sections to align with the state’s structure — and that staff did not propose substantive policy changes. He noted the amendments maintain public‑safety functions such as fire prevention bureau duties, enforcement authority, permitting guidance and fee structures. Rasmussen also cited compliance with recent state legislation, including Assembly Bill 130, which restricts some local modifications for residential construction.

The council opened the required public hearing, received no public comment, and proceeded to receive and file proof of publication before moving to adopt the ordinances listed on the agenda (ordinance numbers provided by staff). The motion to adopt carried with the Mayor Pro Tem absent. City staff said the adoption completes the triennial code‑update process and is intended to improve usability and clarity for residents, builders and plan reviewers.

Next steps: the ordinances take effect as provided by law; staff will make the reorganized code language available to development partners and the public to assist plan review and permitting.