Get involved in developing the 2026 Oregon Residential Specialty Code

As Oregon updates the residential energy code, there are opportunities for you to help shape it. If you’re interested in contributing to the Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC) development, here’s what you to need to know:

The 2026 Oregon Residential Specialty Code is coming

Oregon’s Building Codes Division (BCD) anticipates adopting the 2026 ORSC effective October 1, 2026. The BCD recommends basing the new code on the 2024 International Residential Code and the 2023 ORSC.

In early June, the BCD will post a notice to invite applications for the code review committee. Members of this committee will have a hands-on role in all steps of the code development, from reviewing public code amendment proposals, model code standards, and existing Oregon amendments to recommendations. Keep an eye out for this notice on the BCD’s website.

From early July to mid-August, the BCD will accept code amendment proposals from the public. The agency will post a website notice detailing how to submit a proposal.

Below is a summary of the BCD’s proposed development timeline for the 2026 ORSC.

If you would like to serve on the code review committee or submit public testimony, you can become engaged and help influence the 2026 ORSC. Visit the Residential and Manufactured Structures Board webpage over the coming months to stay informed of meetings and updates related to code development.

Email the BetterBuiltNW team at info@betterbuiltnw.com with questions about residential energy code or what changes could mean for your business.

Find trainings on the current 2023 ORSC on the BCD website.