Roughly a month ago, the International Code Council approved hundreds of changes to be included in the 2009 version of the International Codes.  Several of these changes mean we will be seeing more fire sprinklers in new construction homes:

• Fire sprinklers are required in all new one- and two-family residences beginning Jan. 1, 2011.
• Fire sprinklers are required in all new townhomes.

Several other interesting code changes include:

• Carbon monoxide detectors are required in homes with attached garages or fuel-fired equipment such as gas furnaces, gas stoves and gas water heaters.
  
• A requirement to install programmable thermostats in new homes and buildings with forced air furnaces.
  
• High-efficiency light bulbs required in at least 50% of permanent lighting fixtures in new homes.

Here is a slightly longer list of significant changes, and an overview of the 2008 annual conference.