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.

Integrated codebook info

The integrated 2026 ORSC codebook is currently being published with ICC.

It is anticipated to be available for purchase before the end of this year. A summary of amendments will be available soon.

2026 Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC)

• Administrative provisions (Chapter 1):
• Effective and mandatory Oct. 1, 2026
  Available Oct. 5, 2026
  
• Construction provisions (Chapters 2 - 44 and appendices):
• Effective Oct. 1, 2026 with *six-month phase-in period
  
• Mandatory April 1, 2027
  
• Based on 2024 International Residential Code (IRC)
  

*During the phase-in period, except for Chapter 1, use of the 2023 ORSC or the 2026 ORSC is permitted

2026 ORSC update training and summary of amendments: Coming soon

Previous codebook

2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC)

• Issued errata
  
• 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
  

2023 ORSC update training and adoption resources