Washington State Association of Permit Technicians

Getting Involved In Code Development

Thursday, January 01 WSAPT - Code Development

Why get involved? As an organization, WSAPT is dedicated to assisting in the development and promotion of uniform regulations and legislation pertaining to building construction.

What is the Code Development Process? The code development process is a revision procedure that allows all interested parties the opportunity to both propose changes to the code provisions and to testify regarding such change proposals.
 

What is the Purpose of a Code Change? The purpose for a code change might include revising the codes to:

  • Address health, safety and welfare issues.
  • Reflect new technology.
  • Delete out-of-date technology.
  • Refine language and content by either:
    • Adding new requirement(s) or,
    • Deleting or amending current requirement(s).

The effect of the proposed change on the intent of the section (and subsection), as well as the impact of the change on the application of the code, is considered during the code development process.


Current Codes Being Watched by WSAPT:   No codes are being watched at this time.
This section will be updated after the proposed changes have been published.


International Code Council (ICC)

     Current Legislation: Bill # H.R.2246 Community Building Code Administration Grant Act


State Building Code Council (SBCC)

 

Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO)


Propose a Change!

Coming soon, our members will be able to submit a proposed code change to our very own Code Development Committee.

This section is a work in progress so please check back for updates!!


International Code Council (ICC)  

The International Code Council, a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states that adopt codes choose the International Codes developed by the International Code Council.

In order to ensure that the ICC International Codes reflect new developments in the construction industry, published formal procedures have been established for reviewing proposed changes submitted for incorporation into the code.  Anyone can submit a proposed change.  The Code development hearings are open to the general public and anyone may testify.  The process follows a predictable, easy-to-follow agenda. 

Washington State Building Code Council (SBCC) 

The Washington State Building Code is comprised of several different codes.  Most are national model codes adopted by reference and amended at the state level.  Others, such as the Washington State Energy Code, are state-written and specific to Washington. 

The SBCC periodically initiates a process for review of code amendments proposals and new code requirements.  The Council appoints experts and interest group representative to serve on Technical Advisory Groups (TAGs), to assist the Council by providing detailed information on state building code changes and other issues.  All meetings are open to the public and active participation is encouraged. 

Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO) 

WABO actively participates in the building code development process at the national and state levels.  WABO encourages their membership to acknowledge a professional obligation to contribute time and expertise to monitor and develop safety standards. Their Technical Code Development Committee reviews draft proposals from members for technical merit and proper wording, as well as coordinating with other stakeholder groups.

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Important News & Events:

ICC

2009/2010 Code Development Cycle – Current Schedule

By-Laws Changes Regarding Voting Eligibility and Procedures

ICC Code Development Process Changes

Link to ICC's - Online Newsroom

SBCC

Current SBCC - Meeting Schedule

WABO

ICC Governmental Consensus on Residential Sprinklers (see pdf)

NFPA

Critical Changes in NFPA 101® Life Safety Code, 2009 Edition (see pdf)

OTHER

AWC Legislation Bulletin - Final Bulletin for Legislative Session: (see pdf)

    ESHB 1906 - Improving economic security through unemployment compensation.

    SB 6157 - Calculating compensation for retirement purposes.

 

 

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