Well 2011 is almost here. I hope everyone is ready for the new building codes which take effect on January 1st. The new codes include two brand new-to-California publications: the Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), and the California Residential Code, which will require automatic fire sprinklers in all new single-family homes in California.

“This time around we are looking at adopting the 2010 California Building Code (CBC) which will be based on the 2009 IBC. A new code for us will be the California Residential Code (CRC) and that will be based on the 2009 IRC. The balance of the codes will be the 2010 CFC, CMC, CEC. The 2008 California Energy Standards are already in effect.”
Source- kpaa.com/news

There has been a lot of controversy over the new fire sprinkler requirement with opposition headed mostly by NAHB, The National Association of Home Builders, who argue that the sprinklers are not needed and will add significant cost to new projects. Some sources have calculated that the average cost per square foot will be in the neighborhood of $1.61. Others claim the cost will be much higher.
The bottom line is, if you would rather not have to deal with these requirements, your only alternative is to get your plans submitted for permits prior to Jan 1, 2011.

There are a lot of new energy codes to comply to as well with the Cal Green standards being implemented and some wonder how this will coincide with the current LEED standards.
Click Here to download the comprehensive overview of changes taking effect with CalGreen.