The bill amends the Local Government Code to update building codes and standards applicable in the unincorporated areas of certain counties in Texas. It introduces new definitions for "new commercial construction" and "new residential construction," specifying that these terms include various types of construction activities that increase the square footage or value of existing buildings by more than 50 percent. The bill also allows county commissioners to adopt updated versions of the International Residential Code and the International Building Code, provided they publish notice of any proposed changes and allow for public comment.

Additionally, the bill permits counties to charge fees to cover the costs of enforcing building standards and outlines the inspection requirements for new construction. It establishes that builders must contract with certified inspectors for compliance checks and mandates that counties take action if proper notice of inspections is not submitted. The bill also clarifies that it applies only to new construction that begins on or after its effective date of September 1, 2026, while maintaining the previous laws for any construction that commenced before this date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 233.151, Local Government Code 233.154, Local Government Code 233.155, Local Government Code 233.157 (Local Government Code 233)