Posted on December 24th, 2022

SBCC is seeking public comment on proposed updates to Group 2 state building codes.

SBCC is working to update Group 2 codes:

Washington State Energy Code-Residential
International Building Code (Structural Provisions)
International Existing Building Code
International Residential Code
International Mechanical Code
International Fuel Gas Code
Uniform Plumbing Code
Washington State Wildland Urban Interface Code

More about all code update proposals can be found here

How to comment

All written testimony must be submitted by 5 p.m. Oct. 14, 2022.

Online contact form
Comment by email to SBCC@des.wa.gov
Attend public hearings Sept. 29, Sept. 30 and Oct. 14. See detailed hearing information including how to sign up to testify.

What’s next

The council will discuss and evaluate public comments at an Oct. 21 work session.
The council will vote on code proposals Nov. 4, and possibly on Nov. 18 (as needed).
Any adopted changes will go into effect July 1, 2023.

Background

The SBCC uses rulemaking to update codes every three years following the national code adoption cycle. This update is based on national model codes adopted in 2021 as well as state Legislative energy policy guidance. As codes are updated, they are broken into two groups:

Updates to Group 1 codes have been adopted. Group 1 includes the International Building Code, International Fire Code, and the Washington State Energy Code Commercial.
Updates to all Group 2 codes are those under consideration.

Proposed energy code updates align with two state laws that call for progressive action to reduce emissions between 2006 and 2031, RCW 19.27A.160 and RCW 19.27A.020.

Once new codes are in effect, implementation occurs on the local level -- the council adopts statewide building codes, and Washington’s 39 counties and 281 incorporated cities and towns enforce them.

More information

Original article: SBCC seeks comment on Group 2 code proposals