Residential Structures Code Program

Adopted codes and standards

The division works with building officials, technical committees, advisory boards, and the public to adopt, amend, and interpret the Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC). This code applies to the construction, reconstruction, and repair of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.

2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC)
Administrative provisions (Chapter 1):
Effective and mandatory Oct. 1, 2023
Construction provisions (Chapters 2 - 44 and appendices):
Effective Oct. 1, 2023 with *six-month phase-in period
Mandatory April 1, 2024
Based on 2021 International Residential Code (IRC)
Errata
Issued errata - Last updated April 2026
Interim amendments and related information

Amendments: Emergency Escape and Rescue Opening - R310
Amendments: Attached stacked two-family dwellings
Amendments: Wildfire Hazard Mitigation - R327 | Local adoption of Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Standards
Amendments: Sleeping lofts and associated means of egress
Statewide Alternate Method: No. 26-01: Continued reference to the 2022 OSSC for nonprescriptive design
Code update training and adoption resources

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ORSC adoption process

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Wildfire Hazard Mitigation

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Oregon Design Criteria Hub

BCD technical bulletins

Inspection tools

Prescriptive design

APA wall bracing calculator

Program activities

Residential and Manufactured Structures Board - The Residential and Manufactured Structures Board works with the division to adopt and administer the ORSC.
Residential code adoption - The division works with the board, local building officials and industry stakeholders to adopt each edition of the ORSC. The code adoption process includes a code development phase, a board review phase which can include a code review committee, a rulemaking phase and for certified inspectors, a code update training phase.
Permit-ready plans - The division has developed new permit-ready deck plans meeting the requirements of the ORSC.
Low-volume window labels - The Low-Volume Window Label Program helps manufacturers and installers comply with the Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC) fenestration provisions for windows and glazed doors, as well as certain kinds of skylights and solariums, produced in small numbers.