Casper Council Approves Building Code Overhaul

The city adopts updated international codes, new contractor licensing classes, and revised permit fees on a 6-3 vote.

Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Construction

Casper Council Approves Building Code Overhaul

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Do you support Casper's new contractor licensing and continuing education requirements?

The Casper City Council approved an overhaul of the city's building and construction regulations on a 6-3 vote, adopting the 2024 International Building Code and 2024 International Fire Code. Councilors Sweeney, Jensen and McIntosh cast the dissenting votes.

Why it matters

The updates remove obsolete language, correct grammatical errors and align local enforcement with evolving state and national guidelines. The ordinance also creates new licensing classifications for concrete, framing, drywall and insulation sub-trades.

Permit fees are calculated on total project valuation, including labor and materials, with a $60 starting fee for projects up to $500 and $1,090 for projects up to $100,000. Licensed contractors must complete four hours of continuing education annually, though the approved course lists are still pending.

The players

Casper City Council

The municipal legislative body of Casper, Wyoming, which holds authority over local ordinances, including the city's building and construction code.

The details

Subcontractors working directly under a licensed general contractor are not required to obtain independent licenses unless they operate as distinct business entities. The updates fall under Title 15 of the municipal code and reorganize administrative rules alongside an updated permit fee schedule based on fiscal year 2025 revenue.

FY 2025: Fiscal year revenue used to calibrate the new permit fee schedule.
November 3, 2026: Casper City Council officially approved the building code overhaul.

Industry Context

By adopting the 2024 International Building Code and 2024 International Fire Code, Casper brings its local enforcement in line with the most recent edition of the model code used across much of the country. The move also follows the state's broader push to align local construction rules with evolving guidelines.

Licensed contractors will need to complete four hours of continuing education each year once the new requirement takes effect. Homeowners and builders should expect permit costs to follow the new valuation-based fee schedule.

The takeaway

Contractors and property owners planning projects in Casper should review the new permit fee schedule and licensing classes before applying. Staying current with the upcoming continuing education rules will help avoid compliance issues.