New HampshireNew Hampshire bars towns from changing state building code's technical rules
Since July 1, 2026, New Hampshire towns and cities cannot change the state building code's technical rules, though they may set permit and fee procedures within state limits.
What it does
Towns and cities cannot change the technical rules in the state building code. They may set local permit and fee procedures if those meet state conditions.
Argument forCommon technical rules could help builders understand which rules apply when they work in different New Hampshire towns.
Argument againstTowns could struggle to address a local building need if they cannot change the state code's technical rules.
More detail
Towns and cities cannot change the state building code's technical rules. The rule covers New Hampshire towns and cities; it applies to technical building rules, while local procedures for permits, fees, and similar tasks remain allowed. Local permit, fee, and similar procedures must be no less strict than the state code and receive the confirmation required by state law. The rule took effect July 1, 2026, at 12:01 a.m.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Mar 30Signed by the Governor Kelly Ayotte on 03/27/2026; Chapter 17; Effective 07/01/2026 at 12:01 AMBecame Law
- Mar 23Enrolled Adopted, VV, (In recess 03/12/2026); SJ 7To Governor
- Mar 23Enrolled (in recess of) 03/12/2026 HJ 8 P. 115
- Feb 5Special Order to the Present Time, Without Objection, MA; 02/05/2026; SJ 3
- Feb 5Sen. Pearl Moved to Concur with the House Amendment, MA, VV; 02/05/2026; SJ 3
- Jan 7Ought to Pass with Amendment 2025-2972h: MA VV 01/07/2026 HJ 1 P. 69Passed House
- Jan 7Amendment # 2025-2972h: AA VV 01/07/2026 HJ 1 P. 69
- 2025
- Nov 6Committee Report: Ought to Pass with Amendment # 2025-2972h (NT) 11/05/2025 (Vote 15-1; CC) HC 51 P. 9Minor
- Oct 27Executive Session: 11/05/2025 10:00 am GP 231
- Sep 22Full Committee Work Session: 10/01/2025 10:00 am GP 231
- Apr 30Retained in Committee
- Apr 17Public Hearing: 04/24/2025 10:00 am LOB 306-308
- Mar 28Introduced (in recess of) 03/27/2025 and referred to Executive Departments and Administration HJ 11 P. 110Minor
- Mar 6Ought to Pass: MA, VV; OT3rdg; 03/06/2025; SJ 6Passed Senate
- Feb 12Committee Report: Ought to Pass, 03/06/2025; Vote 4-1; CC; SC 11Minor
- Jan 23Hearing: 01/29/2025, Room 103, SH, 09:30 am; SC 7
- Jan 22Introduced 01/09/2025 and Referred to Executive Departments and Administration; SJ 3Introduced
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