MONDAY, July 13, 2026|
Photo – Building plans – Courtesy Triple D Construction
Rawlins officials debated the need for more restrictive building codes, with some arguing that stricter rules could limit growth.
During the July 7th Rawlins City Council meeting, Mayor Jacquelin Wells introduced an ordinance to amend the city’s building codes. Building Official Mike O’Brien explained that the state of Wyoming requires local governments to approve the latest International Building Code, or IBC, every three years. O’Brien said the amended ordinance codifies the 2024 codes into municipal law as part of that state‑mandated requirement.
O’Brien said the city is currently operating under the 2021 IBC and asked the governing body to adopt the 2024 codes.
Councilman Steve Sanger asked if the city could loosen restrictions set by the latest International Building Codes. O’Brien replied that they can make them stricter, but not less restrictive, prompting Councilman Sanger to ask if the city could automatically update its building codes to match the new regulations without the need for a formal ordinance.
Building Official O’Brien said the state adopts the standard International Building Codes, but Rawlins must add its own restrictions into its local ordinance. Councilman Sanger expressed his disapproval of the additional regulations, saying they may create unnecessary difficulties for builders.
O’Brien replied that the International Building Codes specifically direct builders to ask local governments about any additional requirements.
Councilman Steve Sanger asked if it would be simpler for the city to adopt the new building codes as written, without any additional requirements. City Attorney Pinita Maberry‑Nave said the codes must be changed to conform with the city’s zoning regulations.
Vice Mayor Darril Garner agreed that adopting the newest International Building Codes, without any changes, would help contractors know exactly what standards they must meet to build in Rawlins. The vice mayor said more restrictive codes may discourage development.
Building Official Mike O’Brien said every municipality has its own regulations that builders must follow. Vice Mayor Garner said the closer Rawlins follows the established building codes the more likely developers will choose to work in the city.
O’Brien said the city largely follows the International Building Codes but, like other local governments, is more restrictive in certain instances, such as wind and snow‑load requirements.
Councilman Steve Sanger said contractors are more likely to build in an area when they can buy the same material for every job. By adding stricter regulations, he said municipalities are making development more difficult and costly.
O’Brien explained that the standard building codes, as set by the International Code Council, are insufficient for Carbon County’s weather, adding that every local government sets its own requirements based on the area’s unique conditions. He said contractors tend to follow the strictest rules in the region where they’re working.
Following the discussion, the Rawlins City Council unanimously voted to adopt the 2024 International Building Codes on first reading. All changes to municipal ordinances require three readings during three separate public meetings.
