NHLA Members Approve Key Rules Changes for 2027

NHLA members recently voted on a series of proposed amendments to the 2027 NHLA Rules, resulting in several approved updates that affect standard grading language, construction grades, and Cypress grading rules. These changes reflect member input and are intended to improve clarity, consistency, and practical application of grading standards across the industry.

Below is a summary of the vote outcomes and what they mean moving forward.

STANDARD INSPECTION & STANDARD GRADES

Members considered several proposals related to FAS grading limits and manufacturing language:

• A proposal to remove the pith limitation under FAS grades (Paragraph 56) did not pass.

• A proposal to remove the 1/3 SM knot or hole limitation (Paragraph 60) also did not pass.

Both limitations will remain in place under the 2027 Rules.

Members did approve an amendment clarifying manufacturing requirements by revising the language from “lumber should” to “lumber shall be properly manufactured.” This change strengthens the directive nature of the rule and reinforces consistency in interpretation and enforcement.

In addition, members voted to reinstate the Original Construction Grades as they were written prior to their removal from later Rule Books. These grades will return in the 2027 edition, with the understanding that they may be modified in the future based on recommendations from the New Construction Task Force.

CYPRESS GRADING RULES

Several Cypress-specific grading changes were approved, affecting both Selects & Better and All Grades classifications. Approved amendments include:

• Adding a pith limitation tied to the width of the piece

• Revising knot allowances for 4” –5” wide pieces, with limited exceptions for longer lengths

• Updating knot allowances for 6”–9” wide pieces based on length

• Clarifying that sidebend shall not exceed limits that prevent machining to standard finished width across Selects, No. 1 Common, and No. 2 Common grades

These changes are designed to better align grading standards with real-world manufacturing and machining considerations.

LOOKING AHEAD

All approved amendments will be incorporated into the 2027 NHLA Rule Book. Together, these updates aim to strengthen clarity, maintain consistency, and support fair application of grading rules across species, grades, and markets.

Members are encouraged to review the updated language when the 2027 Rule Book is released in January of 2027 and to contact me, NHLA Chief Inspector Dana Spessert, at d.spessert@nhla.com with any questions regarding interpretation or implementation.

Important: There will be a Rules Change Open Forum at the 2026 NHLA Convention & Exhibit Showcase. We encourage our members to attend and participate.