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Builders and designers have until Oct. 1 to implement state building code changes that took effect July 1. Most are technical and administrative in nature, said Rex Turner, structural program chief for the Oregon Building Codes Division.

The BCD reviews 13 specialty codes periodically; in its most recent cycle it reviewed structural, mechanical and energy efficiency codes. Changes come from the International Code Council‘s national building code, which is the basis for Oregon’s Uniform Building Code.

Typically, the BCD reviews rules every three years, but will start doing so every six years, said Turner, who noted that these changes should not have much of an impact on construction.

“Our buildings are pretty darn safe now,” he said. “We are trying to slow down the change process, which is very costly in our business but also to industry. But that doesn’t mean we wouldn’t make changes if they were needed.”

For example, recent school shootings around the country spurred one new code. It requires that new schools include a voice communication alarm system able to give automated instructions in a live event.

Another change allows wireless smoke alarms, which are much less expensive to install in building retrofits. In the past, builders had been required to install hard-wired, interconnected alarms. Now it is an either/or option, Turner said.

A more significant change is an increase in the height exemption for fences on commercial properties from six feet to seven feet. That means commercial builders and residential builders will be able to build fences up to seven feet high without a permit.

The BCD is holding workshops for inspectors and building officials around the state. Those trainings should finish by the end of September, Turner said.

For more information on the code changes, visit .