September 2026 retrospective
Texas electrical and air-conditioning contractors entered a new code cycle on September 1, 2026. A September 1 notice from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation confirms adoption of the 2026 National Electrical Code as the state electrical code, subject to a limited exception for certain outdoor GFCI requirements.
The adopted rule keeps the exception for listed HVAC equipment from expiring. Teams should read that modification alongside the applicable electrical requirements before choosing equipment or revising connection details; its scope is specific to the provision identified in the state rule.
What project teams should check
A separate change governs air-conditioning and refrigeration contracting. Texas moved the applicable International Residential, Mechanical and Fuel Gas codes and Uniform Mechanical Code from their 2021 editions to 2024 editions. References to ASHRAE 15 and 34 are also updated to the 2024 standards.
The transition language matters for active jobs. Air-conditioning and refrigeration work permitted or started before September 1 may be completed under the 2021 editions. The department retained that protection while declining a request for a longer general transition.
Before the next submittal or equipment release, verify the job’s permit/start date and align mechanical and electrical specifications with the applicable editions. Keep the supporting project records together. This HVAC rule covers a regulated contracting program; it should not be read as a wholesale adoption of the 2024 residential building code for every Texas project.
Scope and source dates
The HVAC rule’s scope is air-conditioning and refrigeration contracting. Its pre-September completion provision must not be generalized to unrelated permits or all electrical work.
This is an informational summary, not legal advice or a guarantee of compliance, permit approval or review timing.