New Building Codes Take Effect Jan 1, 2026

Oakland Aligns with 2026 CA Building Code, Adds Bold Climate & Housing Measures 

As California prepares to roll out its most ambitious building code update in decades, the City of Oakland is taking decisive steps to align with the statewide standards while tailoring them to the city’s unique needs. 

Effective January 1, 2026, the new 2025 California Building Standards Code (Title 24) will usher in sweeping changes aimed at electrification, wildfire resilience, seismic safety, and sustainable construction practices. In response, Oakland has adopted a series of amendments that not only harmonize its local code with the state’s but also reinforce protections specific to its geographic, topographical, and climatological conditions. 

Local Safety Meets Global Sustainability 

Oakland’s amendments emphasize seismic resilience and fire safety, critical for a city situated near major fault lines and vulnerable to climate-driven hazards. But the updates go beyond safety: they embed a strong commitment to climate action. New provisions will accelerate electrification of buildings and promote green building materials. 

Housing and Air Quality Take Center Stage 

In a bid to address the region’s housing crisis, Oakland’s revised code includes incentives and streamlined pathways for constructing more housing units. These efforts are coupled with environmental goals — reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and supporting net-zero energy readiness for new developments. 

City officials say the amendments reflect Oakland’s dual priorities: protecting residents and advancing equity through sustainable growth. “We’re not just building structures — we’re building a healthier, more resilient Oakland,” said Cecilia Muela, Interim Deputy Director/Chief Building Official. 

Key Deadlines for Builders and Developers 

To ensure a smooth transition, the City of Oakland has announced the following deadlines: 

• Dec 5, 2025 - Last day to submit a completed Building Worksheet (BW) for new construction or alterations under the current 2022 code cycle
• Dec 31, 2025 - Last day to make payment for a Building (B) or Residential Building Combo (RBD) Permit under the current 2022 code cycle

Projects not meeting these deadlines will be subject to updated 2025 code requirements. For more on the city’s amendments, visit the City of Oakland’s Building Code page.