Chapter 15.04
BUILDING CODE

Sections:

15.04.010    International Building Code (Chapter 51-50 WAC).

15.04.012    International Building Code requirements for barrier-free accessibility.

15.04.015    References to Uniform Building Code revised to International Building Code.

15.04.020    International Residential Code (Chapter 51-51 WAC).

15.04.025    Exemptions from permit requirements.

15.04.030    International Building Code – Building valuation costs.

15.04.031    Time limitation of applications.

15.04.032    Fees for building permits, plan reviews, inspections, and expired permits.

15.04.033    Change of use permit fees.

15.04.034    Penalty for work commenced before permit issuance.

15.04.035    Refunds.

15.04.040    International Mechanical Code (Chapter 51-52 WAC).

15.04.050    Mechanical permit and inspection fees.

15.04.060    Uniform Plumbing Code (Chapter 51-56 WAC).

15.04.070    Plumbing permit and inspection fees.

15.04.080    International Fire Code (Chapter 51-54A WAC).

15.04.081    Fire lane.

15.04.082    Fire lanes – Penalties.

15.04.083    Building standpipes.

15.04.084    Reserved.

15.04.085    Propane tank regulations.

15.04.090    Washington State Residential Energy Code (Chapter 51-11R WAC).

15.04.095    Washington State Commercial Energy Code (Chapter 51-11C WAC).

15.04.110    Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings.

15.04.120    Documents to be filed and available for public inspection.

15.04.130    Enforcement and penalties.

15.04.010 International Building Code (Chapter 51-50 WAC).

The International Building Code (IBC), 2018 Edition, including Appendix E, as published by the International Code Council (ICC), with all Washington State amendments and exceptions as contained in Chapter 51-50 WAC, is hereby adopted as modified by the additions and amendments specified in SMC 15.04.030 et seq. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012; Ord. 98-015 § 2; Ord. 95-025 § 2)

15.04.012 International Building Code requirements for barrier-free accessibility.

Chapter 11 and other International Building Code requirements for barrier-free access, including ICC A117.1-2009 and Appendix E, are adopted. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A))

15.04.015 References to Uniform Building Code revised to International Building Code.

All references to the Uniform Building Code (UBC) which may exist in the Sequim Municipal Code (SMC) must be interpreted to refer to the IBC. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012)

15.04.020 International Residential Code (Chapter 51-51 WAC).

The International Residential Code, 2018 Edition, as published by the International Code Council, is hereby adopted by reference with the following additions, deletions, and exceptions; provided, that Chapters 11 and 25 through 43 of this IRC code are not adopted.

Additional residential regulations are in the following documents:

Energy code is regulated by Chapter 51-11R WAC;

Plumbing code is regulated by Chapter 51-56 WAC;

Electrical code is regulated by Chapter 296-46B WAC or electrical code as adopted by the local jurisdiction;

Appendix F, Radon Control Methods;

Appendix U, Dwelling Unit Fire Sprinkler Systems, are included in adoption of the International Residential Code. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012; Ord. 98-015 § 2; Ord. 95-025 § 2)

15.04.025 Exemptions from permit requirements.

Section R105.2 (Building) of the International Residential Code as published by the International Code Council regarding exemptions from permit requirements is amended to read as follows:

1. One-story detached accessory structures, provided that the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet.

2. Fences not over 7 feet high.

3. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge (i.e., an extra or excessive load).

4. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 500 gallons and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.

5. Siding, window replacement without any structural modifications, painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.

6. Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches deep.

7. Swings and other playground equipment.

8. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.

9. Decks not more than thirty inches above grade at any point and not located over any basement or story below.

(Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A))

15.04.030 International Building Code – Building valuation costs.

Building valuation costs used to determine permit fees are from the most current issue of the Building Safety Journal, published by the International Code Council. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012; Ord. 98-015 § 2; Ord. 95-025 § 2)

15.04.031 Time limitation of applications.

Section 105.3.2 of the International Building Code as published by the International Code Council regarding time limitations of applications is amended to read as follows:

An application for a permit for any proposed work is deemed to have been abandoned 180 days after the date of filing unless such application has been pursued in good faith or a permit has been issued; except that the building official is authorized to grant one extension of time for an additional period not to exceed 180 days. The extension must be requested in writing.

(Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A))

15.04.032 Fees for building permits, plan reviews, inspections, and expired permits.

A. Fees relating to the International Building Code and the International Residential Code, building permits, plan reviews, and inspections, utilizing IBC valuations, are as provided for and as amended by the city of Sequim, or as excepted for affordable/workforce housing. See Chapter 3.68 SMC, Rates and Fees.

B. Permit Expiration and Fees. Issued building permits will expire two years from the date of permit issuance. Building permits may be renewed prior to the expiration date for one additional year period at a charge of 50 percent of the original building permit fee.

In order to obtain a new permit for the same proposed construction after expiration, the permittee must obtain a new building permit after payment of a fee as provided below:

1. If no work has been started, the permittee will pay 100 percent of the original building permit fee.

2. If project is completed through the approved foundation inspections, the permittee will pay 75 percent of the original building permit fee.

3. If project is completed through the approved shear-nailing inspection, the permittee will pay 50 percent of the original building permit fee.

4. If project is completed through the approved wall insulation inspection, the permittee will pay a one-time final inspection fee, as set forth in Chapter 3.68 SMC, Rates and Fees, in order to final the expired building permit. The permittee must pay a reinspection fee, as set forth in Chapter 3.68 SMC, Rates and Fees, for each additional inspection if corrections are required.

If permittee makes substantial structural and/or life safety changes to the original approved plans of which the building permit has expired, but for the same building, a new plan review fee of 65 percent of the above-referenced building permit fee will be charged for residential building permits. A new plan review fee of 80 percent of the above-referenced building permit fee will be charged for commercial building permits.

If a change in building code or building requirements has taken place, and the permittee intends to continue the work of the expired permit, a new plan review fee will be charged in the amount of 65 percent of the original building permit fee for residential building permits. A new plan review fee of 80 percent of the above-referenced building permit fee will be charged for commercial building permits and the permittee will be required to comply with all such new requirements. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1. Formerly 15.04.031.)

15.04.033 Change of use permit fees.

Building permit applications submitted for a residential change of use are charged according to the new use the structure will accommodate. The valuation of the existing use is determined using the most current issue of the Building Safety Journal, published by the International Code Council. The proposed new use building valuation is determined using the Building Safety Journal, published by the International Code Council. The valuation of the existing use is deducted from the proposed new use valuation, and the building permit and plan review fees are provided for in the 1997 Uniform Building Code, Table 1-A, as amended by the city of Sequim based on the revised new value.

Building permit applications submitted for a commercial change of use are charged according to the valuation determined using the fair market value. The fair market value to be used in computing the permit fee is the total value of all construction work for which the permit is issued, as well as all finish work, painting, roofing, electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, elevators, and other permanent work or equipment, and contractor’s profit. The building permit and plan review fees are provided for in the 1997 Uniform Building Code, Table 1-A, as amended by the city of Sequim based on the fair market value. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1. Formerly 15.04.032.)

15.04.034 Penalty for work commenced before permit issuance.

Any person who commences any work, activity, or operation regulated by this code before obtaining the necessary permits is subject to a penalty fee by multiplying the building permit fee times two or as set forth in Chapter 1.13 SMC, Code Enforcement, whichever is higher. This penalty fee is in addition to any other required permit fee(s). The payment of such penalty fee will not exempt any person from compliance with all other provisions of this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1. Formerly 15.04.033.)

15.04.035 Refunds.

Section 109.6 of the International Building Code (IBC) as published by the International Code Council regarding refunds is amended to read as follows:

The building official may authorize a refund of 80 percent of the plan review fee paid when an application for a permit for which a plan review fee has been paid is withdrawn or canceled before any plan reviewing is done.

The building official may authorize a refund of 80 percent of the building permit fee when no work has been done under a permit issued in accordance with this code. Such requests must be made in writing by the permittee or property owner requesting withdrawal or cancellation of the building permit not later than 180 calendar days after the date of the fee payment.

Permits and permit applications belong to the property owner and run with the land. Permit fee refunds go to the property owner with written notice to agent.

(Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1. Formerly 15.04.034.)

15.04.040 International Mechanical Code (Chapter 51-52 WAC).

The International Mechanical Code, 2018 Edition, as published by the International Code Conference, is hereby adopted by reference except that the standards for liquefied petroleum gas installations must be NFPA 58 (Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases and ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54 (National Fuel Gas Code). (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012; Ord. 98-015 § 2; Ord. 95-025 § 2)

15.04.050 Mechanical permit and inspection fees.

Fees relating to the International Mechanical Code, mechanical permits and inspections are as provided for and as amended by the city of Sequim. See Chapter 3.68 SMC, Rates and Fees. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012; Ord. 98-015 § 2; Ord. 95-025 § 2)

15.04.060 Uniform Plumbing Code (Chapter 51-56 WAC).

The Uniform Plumbing Code, 2018 Edition, including Appendices A, B, and I, as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) is hereby adopted by reference with the following additions, deletions, and exceptions: Chapters 12 and 14 of this Uniform Plumbing Code are not adopted; provided further, that those requirements of the Uniform Plumbing Code relating to venting and combustion air of fuel-fired appliances as found in Chapter 5 and those portions of the code addressing building sewers are not adopted. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012; Ord. 98-015 § 2; Ord. 95-025 § 2)

15.04.070 Plumbing permit and inspection fees.

Fees relating to the Uniform Plumbing Code, plumbing permits and inspections are as provided for and as amended by the city of Sequim. See Chapter 3.68 SMC, Rates and Fees. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012; Ord. 98-015 § 2; Ord. 95-025 § 2)

15.04.080 International Fire Code (Chapter 51-54A WAC).

The International Fire Code, 2018 Edition, as published by the International Code Council, including those standards of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) specifically referenced in the IFC, is hereby adopted. The following appendices are also adopted:

Appendix B – Fire Flow for Buildings.

Appendix C – Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution.

Appendix D – Fire Apparatus Access Roads.

Appendix E – Hazard Categories.

Appendix F – Hazard Ranking.

Appendix H – Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) and Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS) Instructions.

Appendix I – Fire Protection Systems – Noncompliant Conditions.

Adoption of the IFC does not preclude the city from adding, deleting, rewording, or making exceptions to certain specific IFC provisions within this municipal code title. Such additions, deletions, language modifications, and exceptions are described as such. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012; Ord. 98-015 § 2; Ord. 95-025 § 2)

15.04.081 Fire lane.

The fire marshal will establish and designate fire lanes in conformance with the following requirements:

A. All designated fire lanes must be clearly marked in the following manner. Vertical curbs must be painted red six inches in height and must be painted on the top and side, extending the length of the designated fire lane with four-inch white block lettering stenciled on the face “NO PARKING – FIRE LANE.” The stenciling must be spaced every 50 feet. Rolled curbs or surfaces without curbs must be a red six-inch-wide stripe painted extending the length of the designated fire lane with four-inch white block lettering stenciled on the stripe “NO PARKING – FIRE LANE.” The stenciling must be spaced every 50 feet.

B. Signs may be substituted for curb painting when approved in writing by the fire marshal.

C. Signs must not be less than 18 inches in height by 12 inches in width, with block lettering of not less than three-inch-high brush strokes, reading “NO PARKING – FIRE LANE.” Such signs must be reflective in nature, with red lettering on a white background, and be spaced at intervals of not more than 50 feet apart. The top of such signs may not be less than four feet or more than six feet from the ground. Signs may be placed on buildings when approved by the fire marshal. When posts are required, they must be constructed of either two-inch or greater galvanized steel, or four-inch by four-inch or greater pressure-treated wood.

D. The fire marshal may approve deviations from any of the specifications when practical difficulties exist. Requests for deviations must be made in writing and specifically state the reasons therefor and will be maintained on file in the fire marshal’s records.

E. Existing signs may be allowed to remain until the fire marshal determines that a need for replacement exists based on the illegibility or other deterioration of the existing signs. Such replacement must occur within 30 calendar days of receiving written notification of the deficiency.

F. Fire lane markings must be established and maintained as often as required by the fire marshal to clearly identify the designated area as a fire lane, at the sole expense of the property owner. The property owner must have completed the required establishment or maintenance of the fire lanes within 30 calendar days of receiving written notification that such is necessary.

G. At the entrance to the property where fire lanes have been designated, signs must be posted in a clearly conspicuous location, and must clearly state that vehicles parked in fire lanes may be impounded, and the name, telephone number, and address of the towing firm where the vehicle may be redeemed.

H. The owner, manager, or person in charge of any property upon which any designated fire lane has been established is responsible to prevent the parking of vehicles in such fire lanes by informing the appropriate towing company of the violation. If the lane is blocked by any other obstruction, the owner, manager, or person in charge of the property must attempt to remove the obstruction, and, if unable to do so, must inform the fire marshal that the obstruction exists.

I. Any vehicle or object obstructing a designated fire lane is hereby declared to be an immediate hazard to the public safety, and may be impounded without notice to the owner pursuant to Chapter 46.55 RCW. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A))

15.04.082 Fire lanes – Penalties.

Any person who fails to mark or maintain the marking of or tampers with the marking of a designated fire lane or sign as required by this chapter, or willfully obstructs or allows the obstruction of a designated fire lane or sign, is subject to penalties in accordance with SMC 15.04.130. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A))

15.04.083 Building standpipes.

Section 905.3, Required Installations, of the International Fire Code as published by the International Code Council regarding standpipe locations, is an added section to read as follows:

905.3.8 Class 1 Standpipes are required in any building with three (3) floor levels or more and in buildings with two (2) floor levels where the travel distance at required exits on the ground level to the most remote location of the second level is more than 150' for non-sprinklered buildings or 200' for sprinklered buildings.

EXCEPTIONS: Residential structures constructed under the current International Residential Code.

(Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A))

15.04.084 Reserved.

(Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A))

15.04.085 Propane tank regulations.

Section 5703.6 of the International Fire Code is amended as follows:

Piping Systems. Piping systems, and their component parts, for flammable and combustible liquids must be in accordance with Section 5703.6.1 through 5703.6.11. Connection of above ground Liquid Propane (LP) gas containers greater than or equal to 120-gallon water capacity must be of approved flexible connect tubing from the tank to the piping system.

Section 6107 of the International Fire Code adds three new sections to read as follows:

SECTION 6107

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND DEVICES

6107.5 Protecting containers from displacement. LP-gas containers greater than or equal to 120-gallon water capacity must be anchored or strapped to prevent lateral displacement. Anchors or straps must be an approved, listed device. Anchors or straps for LP-gas containers greater than or equal to 2000-gallon water capacity must be designed by a licensed professional.

6107.6 Earthquake shut-off valves. LP-gas containers greater than or equal to 120-gallon water capacity must be protected with an approved, listed earthquake shut-off device.

6107.7 Non-compliant installed LP-gas containers. Non-compliant LP-gas containers must comply with Sections 6107.4, 6107.5 and 610.7.6 when a change of use / occupancy occurs.

(Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2017-008 § 1 (Exh. A))

15.04.090 Washington State Residential Energy Code (Chapter 51-11R WAC).

The 2018 Washington State Energy Code, with all Washington State amendments and adopted appendices as contained in Chapter 51-11R WAC, is hereby adopted. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012; Ord. 98-015 § 2; Ord. 95-025 § 2)

15.04.095 Washington State Commercial Energy Code (Chapter 51-11C WAC).

The 2018 Washington State Energy Code, with all Washington State amendments and adopted appendices as contained in Chapter 51-11C WAC, is hereby adopted. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A))

15.04.110 Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings.

The 1997 Edition of the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings published by the International Code Council is hereby adopted. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012. Formerly 15.04.120.)

15.04.120 Documents to be filed and available for public inspection.

The codes, appendices, and standards set forth in this chapter are filed with the department of community development, and a copy thereof made available for use and examination by the public, pursuant to RCW 35A.12.140. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012; Ord. 98-015 § 2; Ord. 95-025 § 2. Formerly 15.04.130.)

15.04.130 Enforcement and penalties.

Enforcement of this title is conducted in accordance with Chapter 1.13 SMC, Code Enforcement, or Chapter 8.04 SMC, Nuisances. Violations of the provisions of this title are subject to the penalties set forth in Chapters 1.12, 1.13, and 8.04 SMC. (Ord. 2021-011 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2019-013 (Exh. B); Ord. 2016-004 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2013-007 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2008-017 § 1; Ord. 2007-004; Ord. 2004-012; Ord. 98-015 § 2; Ord. 95-025 § 2. Formerly 15.04.140.)