The Mountain Home City Council is set to update the city’s energy and electrical codes during its meeting Thursday night, replacing outdated standards last revised in 1979 and 2002. Both new codes are scheduled to take effect on November 15, if adopted.
The energy ordinance before the council proposes adopting the 2014 Arkansas Energy Code, the state’s version of the International Energy Conservation Code, and repealing Ordinance No. 666, which has guided the city’s energy efficiency standards since it was passed in 1981. The original rules, based on 1979 policies from the Arkansas Department of Energy, were established to reduce dependence on foreign oil following the energy crisis of the 1970s.
The electrical ordinance introduces the 2026 edition of the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) and eliminates two earlier city ordinances from 1997 and 2005. The older regulations adopted the 1996 and 2002 editions of the national code, respectively. Both proposed ordinances include provisions that would automatically incorporate future updates made to these codes by state or national bodies without requiring further City Council approval.
Clay Strain is presenting the ordinances for the city, which will be enforced by Mountain Home’s Planning and Engineering Department. The new rules would apply to new construction, renovations, and improvements. Violations could result in misdemeanor fines ranging from $100 to $200 per day, a penalty structure consistent with the 2005 electrical ordinance and slightly lower than the $250 maximum set by the 1981 energy ordinance.
The proposed electrical code maintains current permit fees, which include a base inspection fee of $40, 25 cents for each 110-volt outlet, $2 for each 220-volt outlet, and $5 for new service installations. These fees have remained largely unchanged since 1997, although the base inspection fee increased from $20 in that year. Work completed without proper permits would continue to incur double fees under the ordinance.
Notably, the new electrical code introduces a requirement for ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) on all outlets in laundry and utility rooms. Other local rules already in place include requiring conduit for all wiring in commercial buildings, a minimum 100-amp service in new homes, and a prohibition on placing service entrances or meter loops above wooden decks. However, certain provisions from earlier ordinances, such as specifications for residential wire sizes and circuit capacities, would be governed by the national code under the new ordinance. Additionally, the 1997 ordinance’s creation of a five-member Board of Adjustments and Appeals for electrical matters would be repealed.
Thursday's City Council meeting begins at 5 p.m. at the Municipal Building, located at 720 Hickory Street. The agenda also includes discussions on two rezoning proposals, adjustments to the 2026 budget, and an appointment to fill the Ward 3 council seat vacated by Philip Frame.