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ew York's Building Code Council is set to implement the All-Electric Buildings Act, requiring most new buildings to be all-electric starting in 2026. This means new construction will no longer use fossil fuel infrastructure for heating and other building systems. The law will be phased in, with smaller buildings (less than seven stories) required to comply in 2026, and taller buildings following in 2029.

    The new requirements apply to most new construction, including single-family homes, small commercial buildings, and low-rise residential buildings. However, some exceptions exist for certain commercial kitchens, hospitals, and cases where electric service is not reasonably available. The law aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings, which account for 40% of New York's state emissions.

    Opponents argue that implementation will be costly, while supporters see it as a crucial step towards environmental goals. A federal judge has rejected a challenge to the law, but an appeal is likely. The State will oversee enforcement and provide a statutory definition for exemptions where electric service cannot be reasonably provided by the grid.

    In other local news, the Village of Nyack has passed a zoning amendment aimed at preventing proximity waivers for cannabis dispensaries. The amendment mirrors state law, which generally prohibits retail dispensaries from opening within 2,000 feet of another dispensary in small towns and villages. However, if the Office of Cannabis Management grants a waiver, the local code would override it.

    The Village of Stony Point has also passed a six-month moratorium on construction and expansion of large homes, while it reviews and revamps its zoning code and bulk regulations. The moratorium applies to homes over 6,000 square feet townwide or over 3,000 square feet on lots smaller than 20,000 square feet. Residents who claim the moratorium imposes an "unreasonable burden" can apply for a hardship waiver.