Posting Language
Title
Set a public hearing to consider an ordinance repealing and replacing City Code Chapter 25-12, Article 4 (Electrical Code) to adopt the 2026 National Electrical Code, Annex H, and local amendments. (Suggested date: April 23, 2026, at Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second St., Austin, TX). Funding: This item has no fiscal impact.
De
Lead Department
Austin Development Services.
Fiscal Note
This item has no fiscal impact.
Prior Council Action:
August 31, 2023 - The public hearing was conducted and a motion to close the public hearing and approve Ordinance No. 20230831-105 was approved on Mayor Pro Tem Ellis motion, Council Member Harper-Madison's second without objection.
For More Information:
Martin Starrett, Division Manager Commercial Building Inspections (ADS), Martin.Starrett@austintexas.gov, 512-974-3488; Todd Wilcox, Building Official (ADS), Todd.Wilcox@austintexas.gov <mailto:Todd.Wilcox@austintexas.gov>, 512-978-4662.
Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action:
January 21, 2026 - Adoption of the 2026 National Electrical Code and related local amendments recommended by the Electrical Board on an 6-0 vote. Commissioner Cochren, Wallace, Grant, and Hernandez were absent.
Additional Backup Information:
The National Electrical Code provides a national minimum standard for electrical installations associated with residential, commercial, and industrial buildings and structures. The proposed ordinance establishes amendments to address local installations, complies with state law, and is consistent with the State Electrical Law and the State’s adopted National Electrical Code.
Significant changes for the Adoption of the 2026 National Electrical Code include:
• The 2026 National Electrical Code will introduce reformatting in preparation for a major structural shift planned for the 2029 National Electrical Code, including reorganization of medium voltage and limited-energy systems.
• Separation of Power Control Systems from Energy Management Systems, which will clarify the responsibilities and installation requirements of both.
• Expanded worker safety requirements. Reinforcing listing requirements and clarifying equipment labeling, maintenance, and safe operation.
Highlights of the local amendments include:
• Removal of the term “specification” from plan review requirements.
• Modification of two permit exemptions. One clarifying and adjusting the exemption requirements for temporary wiring in laboratories, and another updating low-voltage installations to reflect current practices and safety standards.
• Removal of local amendments pertaining to homestead requirements. Applicants will instead utilize the homestead requirements contained in the Building Criteria Manual.
• Removal of “registered industrial plant program” from the annual permit section.
• Addition of the Fire Code reference for fire pump disconnect requirements.
• Removal of local amendments pertaining to main electrical service disconnect requirements. Applicants will instead utilize main electrical service disconnect requirements contained in the 2026 National Electrical Code.