Iowa Senate Bill SF174

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 6/5/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to building design element regulation by governmental subdivisions, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly SF 43; See SF 2154.)

Impact

If passed, SF174 would limit the ability of local governments to impose restrictions on the types of building materials or design elements that can be used in residential buildings. For instance, a governmental subdivision would not be able to prohibit a building product that is approved under a national model code or establish a building standard more stringent than those codes. This could lead to conflicts between local needs and broader regulatory frameworks, impacting local aesthetics and safety preferences.

Summary

Senate File 174 (SF174) is a legislative bill focused on the regulation of building design elements by governmental subdivisions in Iowa. The bill aims to standardize building regulations by prohibiting local governments from adopting or enforcing rules that are more stringent than those established by national model codes. The intent behind the bill is to ensure that building practices remain consistent across jurisdictions, which proponents argue will simplify compliance for builders and promote economic efficiency in the residential construction sector. This standardization is particularly directed at the materials and product usage in residential structures.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding the bill is the balance between local control and state-wide standardization. Supporters assert that this bill can remove unnecessary regulatory barriers that hinder development and construction, while opponents warn that it may strip communities of their ability to address specific local concerns and adapt regulations to the unique needs of their residents. Critics argue that certain design restrictions might be necessary for maintaining local character or addressing community safety measures that national codes do not sufficiently cover.