Building Codes

The Washington State Building Code Council (SBCC) advises the Washington State Legislature on building code issues and develops building codes used in Washington state. According to SBCC, “These codes help to ensure buildings and facilities built in the state are safe and healthy for occupants, accessible to persons with disabilities and the elderly, and are energy efficient.” The State of Washington and local jurisdictions, such as the City of Monroe, adopt new and amend existing codes on a three-year cycle.

2021 BUILDING CODES IN EFFECT

On March 15, 2024, amendments to the following Washington State Building Codes take effect.  

• 2021 International Building Code
• 2021 International Residential Code
• 2021 International Mechanical Code (and associated codes)
• 2021 International Fire Code
• 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code
• 2021 Washington State Energy Code

NOTE: Complete applications received by the City of Monroe before March 15, 2024, will be reviewed in compliance with the 2018 editions of the above listed codes. Applications received on or after March 15, 2024, will be reviewed in compliance with the 2021 codes. 

PENDING: 2021 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

The Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Code is a set of regulations aimed at protecting life and property from wildland fires in areas where human development (e.g. construction of most residential and commercial structures) and natural vegetation (e.g. forest land) are intermixed. WUI codes reduce wildfire risks to people and property and address fire spread, accessibility, defensible space, water supply and more for buildings constructed near wildland areas.

Although the WUI Codes have been considered as part of the 2021 amendments to the Washington State Building Code, there continues to be discussion between the SBCC and legislators on adopting a final version. Until the time that WUI Codes are finalized, the City of Monroe is not reviewing certain building permits for compliance with WUI Codes.