HomeMy WebLinkAboutord2004-064I HATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL AGENDA BILL NO. 2004 -374
CLEARANCES
Initial
Date
Date Received in Council Office
Agenda Date
Assi nedto:
Originator:
J.E.RI'A,N
`; 1 9 2,04
ex/
10/26/04
Introduction
Dnismn Head:
J.E.Rian
Dept. Head:
NalHNart
UG
11/23/2004
Hearing
Prosecutor
Karen FrakAes
l�
Purchasing /Badge[:
Executive
Pete Kremen
10-4
SUBJECT.-Codification of 2003 International Building Codes as adopted by State Building Code Council
A TTA CHMENTS:Ordinance repealing Uniform Building Codes and adopting new International set of codes.
SEPA review required? ( ) Yes ( X ) NO
Should Clerk schedule a hearing ? ( ) Yes ( ) NO
SEPA review completed? ( ) Yes ( J NO
Requested Date:
SUMMARYSTATEMENT:
Distribution Request
Repeal Uniform Building Codes and codify 2003 International
Building, esidential,Mechanical, Fire, 2003 Uniform Plumbing
g, f g
Indtcarethosewes to the right. raropy oiler eoanar action.
List spe fc namesmthe right
Code, 1997 Uniform Code far the Abatement of Dangerous
Buildings and amendments as adopted by the State Building Code
Council 7 -1 -04.
ADS Facilities Management
ADS Finance
ADS Human Resources
ADS halo Services
Assessor
Auditor
Cooperative Extension
District Court
Executive
Health
Hearing Examiner
Jail
COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN:
Juvenile
Parks
j 10/26/2004: Introduced.
Planning
11/23/2004: Adopted 7 -0, Ord. #2004 -064
Prosecutor
Public Works
Sheriff
Superior Court
Treasurer
Related County Contract #:
Other
Ordinance or Resolution Number
Related File Numbers:
(this item): ordinance 2004 -064
SPONSORED BY: consent
PROPOSED BY: P1annlnq
INTRODUCTION DATE: 10/26/04
ORDINANCE NO. 2004 -064
An Ordinance adopting the Current State Building Code and Repealing the
Existing Title 15 of the Whatcom County Code
Whereas, the Whatcom County Council held a public hearing on 11/23 , 2004 to review staff
findings and recommendations, and to consider any public testimony and written
correspondence regarding Whatcom County Code Title 15, Buildings and Construction; and
Whereas, chapter 19.27 RCW requires Whatcom County to administer and enforce the State
Building Code in the unincorporated areas within its boundaries; and
Whereas, the purpose of these codes is to promote the health, safety and welfare of the
occupants or users of buildings and structures and the general public by the provision of
building codes in Whatcom County; and
Whereas, RCW 19.27.040 allows local jurisdictions to adopt appropriate amendments to the
State Building Code; and
Whereas, modifications and /or amendments to the State Building Code as it applies to
Whatcom County are desirable for various reasons; and
Whereas, the State Building Code Council requires adoption of the 2003 edition of these
International Codes and the 2003 edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code and the 2003 edition of
the State of Washington Energy and Air Quality Codes with further amendments by July 1,
2004;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY ORDAINED that:
Section 1. The following chapters of Title 15 of the Whatcom County Code are repealed in their
entirety:
15.04
Uniform Building Code
15.08
Uniform Mechanical Code
15.12
Mail -in Application for Permits
15.16
Uniform Fire Code
15.18
Fire Flow
15.20
Uniform Plumbing Code
15.24
Manufactured Home Installation
15.28
Fuel Storage Tanks
Section 2. A new Title 15 is hereby adopted as shown in Exhibit A to this Ordinance.
Section 3. Adjudication of invalidity of any
of the sections,
clauses, or
provisions of this
Ordinance shall not affect or impair the validity
of the Ordinance
as a whole
or any part thereof
other than the part so declared to be invalid.
ADOPTED this 23 day of November , 2004.
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON
an McShane, Council Chair
(4. proved �( )) Denied
Pete Kremen, County Executive
A)
Date
EXHIBIT A
15.04.010 Adoption of Referenced Codes
Whatcom County hereby adopts the following codes, as amended by the Washington State
Building Code Council pursuant to RCW 19.27.074 and WAC 51 -50 or successor, for the
purpose of establishing rules and regulations for the construction, alteration, removal,
demolition, equipment, use and occupancy, location and maintenance of buildings and
structures, including permits and penalties.
1. The International Building Code, including appendices C and E (Section 101 -107) as
published by the International Code Council, hereinafter referred to as the IBC, as modified
by WAC 51 -50 or successor, and as amended in WCC 15.04.020 and 15.05.050.
2. The International Residential Code, including appendices E and J of the IBC, as published
by the International Code Council, hereinafter referred to as the IRC, as modified by WAC
51 -51 or successor and as amended in WCC 15.04.030 and in 15.05.050.
3. The International Fire Code, including appendices A, B, C, and D and latest supplements,
as published by the International Code Council, hereinafter referred to as the IFC, as
modified by WAC 51 -54 or successor, and as amended in 15.04.040 and 15.05.050.
4. The International Mechanical Code as published by the International Code Council,
hereinafter referred to as the IMC, as modified by WAC 51 -52 and as amended by
15.05.050 or successor.
a. The installation of fuel gas distribution piping and equipment, fuel gas -fired appliances
and fuel gas -fired appliance venting systems shall be regulated by the International Fuel
Gas Code (WAC 51 -52- 0101).
b. The standards for liquefied petroleum gas installations shall be the 2001 Edition of NPA
58 (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code) and the 2002 Edition of ANSI Z223.1 /NFPA 54
(National Fuel Gas Code) (WAC 51 -52- 0101).
5. Except as provided in RCW 19.27.170, the 2003 Uniform Plumbing code (UPC) and Uniform
Plumbing Code Standards.
6. The rules adopted by the Washington State Building Code Council establishing standards
for making buildings and facilities accessible and usable by the physically disabled or elderly
persons as provided in WAC 51.50 Chapter 11 & ICC At 17.1, or successor.
7. The Washington State Energy Code as modified by WAC 51 -11 or successor, and the
Washington State Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality Code as modified by WAC 51 -13 or
successor, both promulgated by the State Building Code Council, hereinafter referred to as
the WSEC and VIAQC, respectively, or successors.
8. The Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings, 1997 Edition, or successor.
15.04.020 Amendments to the International Buildino Code
A. The IBC
is amended as follows:
1. Section 105.1, Required, is amended to include the following:
a.
Despite any ordinance provisions to the contrary, a state contractor, or an
industrial plant -doing work on premises it owns or operates, may obtain permits
as required by the mechanical and plumbing codes, through mail -in
applications, for work not requiring plans and specifications, State
Environmental Policy Act checklist, shorelines substantial development permit
and not located in a designated flood zone, by following the requirements of
this chapter and with the approval of the building official.
b.
Industrial plants performing work on premises it owns or operates may obtain
permits, as required by the mechanical and plumbing codes, through mail -in
applications for work not exceeding $20,000; and not requiring plans and
specifications, provided that the industrial plants receive prior approval of the
building official; and further provided that proposed work is not in conflict with
any county, state or federal zoning or environmental policies.
C.
A state licensed contractor may obtain a permit, as required by the mechanical
and plumbing codes, through mail -in applications for work not exceeding
$10,000 and not requiring plans and specifications and not in conflict with state
or local zoning and environmental policies and the prior approval of the
building official.
d.
The applicant shall fill out in full the forms furnished for that purpose, and
attach thereto the full amount of moneys that are required for fees as required
in the respective codes. The application shall contain all information
necessary to the lawful enforcement of the provisions of the respective codes.
The applicant shall file all forms with fees.
e.
No person or industrial plant shall perform work as provided herein until such
time as they receive verification of approval of their application by the county
building official and have been given written notice of same.
f.
Any violation of this chapter shall be cause for the building official to revoke the
mail -in applications privilege of the violator. Upon written notice of revocation, all
provisions of the mechanical and plumbing codes superseded by this chapter
shall resume in full force and effect as to the person or industrial plant whose
application has been revoked
Section 105.2 Work exempt from building permits, is amended to read as follows:
a. One —story detached, non - occupied accessory structures used as tool and
storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not
exceed "200" sq ft.
b. Fences not over 6 feet high
c. Oil derricks
d. Retaining walls which are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of
the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting surcharge or impounding
Class I, II, or III -A liquids.
e. Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000
gallons. And the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
f. Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches above grade and not over any
basement or story below and which are not part of an accessible route.
g. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish
work.
h. Temporary motion picture, television and theater sets and scenery.
i. Prefabricated swimming pools installed entirely above - ground, accessory to a
Group R -3.
j. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes and not
including service systems.
k. Swings and other playground equipment.
I. 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 of group
R -3, as applicable in Section 101.2, and Group U occupancies.
m. Movable cases, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches in height.
B. Appendix J, Grading.
1. The following definitions are added to Section J102.1:
i. EARTH MATERIAL: Any rock, natural soil or any combination thereof
ii. CRITICAL AREAS: The following areas as
regulated under WCC 16.16 shall be regarded as
critical areas along with associated buffers
identified under WCC 16.16:
i. Geologically hazardous areas
ii. Frequently flooded areas
iii. Critical aquifer recharge areas
V. Wetlands
V. Fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas
C. ORDINARY HIGH WATER MARK: The mark on all lakes, rivers, streams and
tidal water that will be found by examining the beds and banks and
ascertaining where the presence and action of waters are so common and
usual and so long continued in all ordinary years, as to mark upon the soil a
character distinct from that of the abutting upland in respect to vegetation.
2. The following exemptions are added to Section J103:
a. Grading in an isolated, self- contained area, provided there is no danger to the
public, and that such grading will not adversely affect adjoining properties or
critical areas and further provided that the activity occurs outside of the
jurisdiction of the Whatcom County Shorelines Management Program (WCC
Title 23) and fill does not exceed 250 cubic yards and is associated with a
residence authorized by a valid building permit.
b. Excavation for construction of a structure permitted under this code provided
that said construction has been duly reviewed for compliance with Whatcom
County Shoreline Management Program (WCC Title 23) and the Whatcom
County Critical Areas Ordinance (WCC 16.16).
C. Refuse disposal sites controlled by and appropriately permitted in accordance
with other regulations.
d. Excavations for wells or trenches for utilities, provided the activity occurs
outside of the jurisdiction of the Whatcom County Shorelines Management
Program (WCC Title 23) and there are no adverse impacts to critical areas.
e. Mining, quarrying, excavating, processing or stockpiling rock, sand, gravel,
aggregate or clay controlled by other regulations, provided the activity occurs
outside of the jurisdiction of the Whatcom County Shoreline Management
Program (WCC Title 23) and such operations do not affect the lateral support
of, or significantly increase stresses in soil on adjoining properties, or adversely
impact critical areas.
f. Exploratory excavations performed under the direction of a registered design
professional provided that said excavations have been duly reviewed for
compliance with Whatcom County Shoreline Management Program (WCC Title
23) or critical areas ordinance.
g. A fill less than 1 foot in depth and placed on natural terrain with a slope flatter
than I unit vertical in 5 units horizontal (20% slope) or less than 3 feet in depth,
not intended to support structures, that does not exceed 50 cubic yards on any
one lot and does not obstruct a drainage course or otherwise impact critical
areas provided the activity occurs outside of the jurisdiction of the Whatcom
County Shorelines Management Program.
3. The following Site Plan requirements are added to J104.2:
a. In addition to the provisions of Section 106, a grading plan shall show the
existing grade and finished grade in contour intervals of sufficient clarity to
indicate the nature and extent of the work and show in detail that it complies with
the requirements of this code.
b. The plans shall show the existing grade on adjoining properties in sufficient detail
to identify how grade changes will conform to the requirements of this code.
c. The plans shall show erosion control types and locations, natural features
(slopes, streams, wetlands, ponds, etc.), forested or treed areas, ditches,
culverts, wet areas, flow directions, critical area boundaries, the Ordinary High
Water Mark (OHWM) of any water body regulated by the Whatcom County
Shoreline Management Program and any other information deemed necessary
by the Building Official.
4. The following Soils Report requirement is added to J104.3:
a. A soils report prepared by a licensed geotechnical engineer or licensed
engineering geologist for excavations and fills greater than 1,000 cubic yards
when intended to support structures, shall be provided which shall identify the
nature and distribution of existing soils; conclusions and recommendations for
grading procedures, soil design criteria for any structures or embankments
required to accomplish the proposed grading; and, where necessary, slope
stability studies, and recommendations and conclusions regarding site geology.
15.04.30 Amendments to the International Residential Code
Section R105.2, Work exempt from permits, is amended to read as follows:
1. One —story detached, non - occupied accessory structures used as tool and
storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not
exceed 200 sq ft.
2. Fences not over 6 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.
4. Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000
gallons. And the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
5. Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches above grade and not over
any basement or story below.
6. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish
work.
7. Above ground pre - fabricated pools.
8. Swings and other playground equipment.
9. 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.
10. Decks less than 30" above grade
3. Table R301.2 (1) Design Data for Whatcom County shall read as follows:
1. GROUND SNOW LOAD TABLE JANUARY 1997 Table
R301.2(1)
Whatcom County
Approx. average
elevation
Revised Ground
Snow Load
Revised Roof
Snow Load
Acme
310
22
25
Bellingham
100
15
25
Blaine
45
16
25
Deming
210
24
25
Diablo
910
100
100
Ferndale
60
20
25
Glacier
900
74
74
Lawrence
145
24
25
Lynden
103
24
25
Maple Falls
643
77
77
Mt. Baker Ski Area
4200
588
588
Newhalem
510
129
129
Nooksack
84
24
25
Sumas
36
24
25
Wickersham
310
28
28
Kendall
460
50
Paradise
460
50
Pt. Roberts
120
1 25
Footnotes:
Any proposal can challenge the above design load with engineer or architect stamped and
signed calculations and criteria.
Buildings where the roof snow load exceeds 30psf may require architect or engineer
review.
Recommendations are valid for the recognized central area of each regional designation.
Building Services reserves the right to adjust the roof snow load based on building
location and /or criteria per the 2003 IBC and /or the Snow Load Analysis for Washington.
2. Wind Speed (mph): 85 mph
3. Seismic Design Category: IRC =D1; IBC =D
4. Subject to Damage From Weathering: Moderate
5. Frost Line Depth: 18"
6. Termite: None
7. Decay: Moderate
8. Winter Design Temp: 22 ° F
9. Ice Shield Underlayment Req.: No
10. Air Freezing Index: 260
11. Mean Annual Temperature: 48° F
Appendix E, Manufactured Homes, is amended to read as follows:
This chapter is enacted as an exercise of the police power of the county for the
benefit of the public at large. It is not intended to create a special relationship
with any individual, or individuals, nor to identify and protect any particular class
of persons.
The purpose of this chapter is to provide minimum standards to safeguard life or
limb, health or property, and public welfare, by regulating and controlling the
installation of manufactured homes on building sites within the county.
It is not the intent of this chapter to impose liability upon the county for failure to
perform any discretionary act. Rather, it is the intent of this chapter to place the
obligation of complying with its requirements upon the installer. Nothing
contained in this chapter shall be construed to relieve from or to lessen the
responsibility or liability of any person for injury or damage to persons or
property caused by or resulting from any defect of any nature in any
manufactured home installation work performed by said person or in any
manufactured home installation equipment owned, controlled, operated or used
by him; nor shall Whatcom County, or any officer, agent, or employee thereof,
incur or be held as assuming any liability by reason or in consequence of any
permission, certificate of inspection, inspection or approval authorized herein, or
issued or given as herein provided, or by reasons or consequence of any things
done or acts performed pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.
1) SCOPE
This chapter sets forth rules and regulations to regulate and control the
installation of manufactured homes on building sites, establishes an
administrative procedure for the issuance of permits, and provides for the
inspection of manufactured home installations.
2) DEFINITIONS
a. ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY is the Department of Planning &
Development Services, the Building Services Division, and the
Whatcom County Building Official.
b. BUILDING OFFICIAL is the Building Services Division Manager
C. BUILDING SITE is any site proposed for the location of a manufactured
home including sites within mobile home parks.
d. HUD is the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development.
e.
INSTALLER shall either be the owner or a State licensed mobile home
installer.
f.
MANUFACTURED HOME means a structure designed and built to
comply with the Washington State Department of Labor
and Industry's
rules and regulations for MANUFACTURED homes and commercial
coaches.
g.
MOBILE HOME is a transportable, factory-built dwelling unit
constructed prior to June 15, 1976 (prior to enactment of National
Manufactured Housing Construction & Safety Standards [NMHCSS] Act
of 1974).
h.
PERMANENT FOUNDATION means concrete blocks on a concrete
footing or slab, or other approved engineered foundation systems.
3) GENERAL INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
a.
Manufactured homes installed on building sites shall be installed in
accordance with the provisions of this chapter and all applicable local,
state, and federal codes, ordinances, and statutes.
b.
Manufactured homes shall be installed in compliance with the
manufacturer's installation recommendations or according to
NCSBCS /ANSI A225.1 -1994; permanent foundation requirements. The
manufacturer or dealer shall send two copies of its approved installation
recommendations to the purchaser of the manufactured home. Two
copies shall be submitted with the building permit application.
C.
No person, firm, partnership, corporation, or other entity may install a
manufactured home unless he /she owns the manufactured home, or is a
licensed manufactured home installer.
d.
All manufactured home installations shall comply with the requirements
of the IRC Section R403.1.7.3, Foundation Elevation, and with the
following; On graded sites, the top of any exterior foundation shall
extend above the elevation of the street gutter at point of discharge or
the inlet of an approved drainage device a minimum of 12 inches plus 2
percent. The Building Official may approve alternate elevations,
provided it can be demonstrated that required drainage to the
point of
discharge and away from the structure is provided at all locations
on
the site. The following provisions shall be made to prevent standing
water under and around a building or structure prior to the final
inspection. The finished grade and elevation under the building shall be
above the ground drainage flow of the land around the building to
prevent surface or sub - surface water from draining to the space under
the building, provided that other approved alternates such as drain tile,
exterior grading to a point lower than the interior drainage of the
building or an approved sump pump may be used, and provided further
that the alternate method to be used shall be shown on the building
plans. An approved sump pump system shall in no case be connected
to the sanitary sewer system. In all instances where a drainage or sump
pump system is installed under the structure there shall be provided, in
the foundation wall, an access crawl hole which shall be no more than
20 feet from the main drain cleanout. To facilitate the drainage of water,
the building site shall have at least a 2% gradient towards approved
drainage facilities from building pads. However, this may be waived by
the building official provided that the permittee can demonstrate that
due to the nature of the site this would be impractical and that an
approved alternate will be used. If water appears under the building
within a period of 12 months after the final inspection of the building or
structure, the builder shall be responsible for providing the drainage of
the same, and provided further that the builder has not complied with
the requirements of Section 1804.7 herein, concerning drainage.
Thereafter, the owner of the building shall be responsible for providing
drainage of the same, except where owner and builder agree
otherwise.
e. In those areas that are recognized as floodplains by the Washington
State Department of Ecology or the Federal Emergency Management
Agency, or hazardous because of the probability of earthquakes, ground
slides, avalanches, or high winds, the building official may set
requirements that are necessary to lessen the hazards. Manufactured
homes in a floodplain must be installed per FEMA recommendations as
outlined in GUIDELINES FOR THE INSTALLATION & ANCHORING OF
MANUFACTURED HOUSING IN WASHINGTON STATE, (Sept. 20,
1996.) Used mobile homes older than 1976, require a fire /life safety
inspection by the State Dept. of Labor & Industries prior to building
permit submittal. Manufactured homes installed on sites that are sloping
or have poor drainage shall be installed in accordance with installation
recommendations, provided by a professional engineer or architect
licensed in the state of Washington.
4) PERMITS REQUIRED
No person, firm, or corporation shall install or cause to be installed any
manufactured home on a building site without having first obtained a building
permit and a manufactured home dealer shall not deliver a manufactured home
to a building site until that dealer has verified that the installer has obtained the
necessary building permits.
5) APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
In addition to the building permit application and issuance regulations, the
following shall apply to manufactured home installations: separate application
shall be required for each manufactured home installation. The application
shall be made upon forms provided by the administrative authority and shall be
accompanied by the permit fee established herein.
a. A separate application shall be required for each manufactured home
installation. The application shall be made upon forms provided by the
administrative authority and shall be accompanied by the permit fee
established herein.
b. Each application shall be accompanied by a plot plan drawn to scale with
detail sufficient to show that the installation will meet siting requirements
of all applicable state and local regulations.
C. Applications for manufactured homes to be installed on building sites or
sites within a mobile home park shall be accompanied by two sets of
foundation plans for a permanent foundation.
6) INSPECTION
Approved installation specifications shall be available at the site at the time of
inspection of the installation. In the event that no approved installation
specifications are available or the approved specifications as provided above
do not cover all the installation requirements of this chapter, then the total
installation of the portions thereof not covered by the approved specifications
shall comply with the appropriate provisions of this code.
a. On building sites other than those in mobile home parks, the installer of
the manufactured /mobile home shall request a footing inspection after
7)
31
the placement of the footing forms and rebar and prior to pouring or
placing the footings, a tie -down inspection and a final inspection after all
aspects of the installation have been completed. For mobile home park
installations, the installer shall request a final inspection after all aspects
of the installation have been completed. All requests for inspection shall
be made one working day before such inspection is desired.
b. The manufactured /mobile home may be occupied once the installation
has passed final inspection for compliance with the requirements of this
chapter and any conditions placed upon the issued permit.
C. If the installation does not comply with the installation requirements of
this chapter and the conditions of the installation permit, the local
enforcement agency shall provide the installer with a list of corrections
that the installer must make. The list of corrections shall state a date by
which the corrections must be completed. If the items that require
correction do not endanger the health or safety of the occupants, or
substantially affect the habitability of the manufactured /mobile home, the
local enforcement agency may permit the owner of the home to occupy
it.
BUILDING SITE PREPARATION
A manufactured home may not be installed on a building site unless the ground
at the site has adequate compaction and load- bearing ability to meet the
support requirements of 15.04.030.A.4.3.d or, if the building site is in a mobile
home park, the park owner must insure that the ground on which the mobile
home is to be installed has been improved as necessary to provide a proper
base for the mobile home and that the area beneath the mobile home has
adequate drainage.
FOUNDATION SYSTEM FOOTINGS
a. Footings shall be constructed of solid concrete per the manufacturer's
installation specifications or an approved alternate method.
b. Four -inch slab with thickened footings, extending 18 inches below
existing grade, 16 inches diameter concrete posts eight feet o.c. with a
four- inch concrete slab and Z hook for positive connection between post
and slab, if in a flood plain.
C. Footings shall be:
i. Evenly bedded and level;
ii. Placed on firm, undisturbed or compacted soil that is free of
organic material;
iii. Centered in a line under the main frame longitudinal members on
both sides of the manufactured home;
iv. Spaced not more than eight feet apart and no more than two feet
from the ends of the main frame. The building official may require a
closer spacing, depending on the load bearing capacity of the soil or
the specifications in the manufactured home installation manual.
d. A manufactured home with more than one section must have center line
blocking at end walls and at other points of connection of the sections of
the manufactured home that have ridge beam bearing support. Blocking
is also required at both ends of a door opening that is six feet or more
wide in an exterior wall.
e. If a manufactured home requires footings on its exterior perimeter, as
specified by the installation recommendations or required by the building
official, the footings shall be installed below the frost line.
f. Footings shall be constructed s0 that 75 percent of the area under the
manufactured home has at least 18 inches clearance between the
bottom of the main chassis members and the ground level. The area
beneath the furnace cross -overs and fireplaces must always have at
least 18 inches clearance. At no point under the manufactured home
may clearance be less than 12 inches.
9) FOUNDATION SYSTEM PIERS
a. An installer must build and position piers and load- bearing supports or
devices to distribute the required load evenly. An installer must use
manufactured piers or load- bearing supports or devices that are listed
or approved for the intended use.
b. A pier may be made of a single stack of 8 -inch by 16 -inch blocks if the
blocks are not stacked more than three blocks high. A pier made of a
single stack of blocks shall be installed at a right angle to the main
frame longitudinal members and shall be capped with no more than 2-
inch by 8 -inch by 16 -inch wood blocks or one 4 -inch by 8 -inch by 16-
inch concrete block.
C. A pier may be made of a double stack of 8 -inch by 8 -inch by 10 -inch
blocks if the blocks are not stacked more than five blocks high. Each row
of blocks in such a pier shall be stacked at right angles to the abutting
rows of blocks. The pier shall be capped by with 2 -inch by 8 -inch by 16-
inch concrete blocks. The pier shall be installed so that the joint between
the cap block is at right angle to the main frame longitudinal members.
d. A pier may be made with more than five courses of blocks and not to
exceed 9 (72" inches) courses of block if the stacked blocks are filled
with 2,000 psi concrete or mortar, and no more than 20% of the piers
exceed five courses (40 "). All other systems shall be designed by a
licensed Washington state engineer or architect.
e. All blocks shall be set with cores placed vertically.
10) FOUNDATION SYSTEM PLATES AND SHIMS
An installer may fill a gap between the top of a pier and the main frame with a
wood plate that is not more than two inches thick and two opposing wedge -
shaped shims that are not more than two inches thick. Wood plates and shims
must be of hemlock/fir, Douglas fir, or spruce /pine/fir. A shim shall be at least
four inches wide and six inches long. The installer shall fit the shim properly
and drive it tight between the wood plate or pier and the main frame to ensure
that the manufactured home is level and properly supported at all load- bearing
points. A block that abuts a wedge - shaped shim shall be solid.
11) FOUNDATION
A manufactured home shall have an approved skirting around its entire
perimeter. The wood of the skirting shall be at least six inches from the ground
unless it is pressure- treated wood. Metal fasteners shall be hot dipped
galvanized, stainless steel, or other corrosive - resistant material. Ferrous metal
members in contact with the earth, other than those that are galvanized or
stainless steel, shall be coated with asphaltic emulsion. A manufactured home
that is installed shall have ventilation openings with a net area of one square
foot per 150 square feet of crawl space; except manufactured homes installed
in the Flood plain shall have ventilation openings with a net area of 1 square
inch per 1 per square foot of crawlspace installed within 1 foot of finished
grade. The openings shall be designed to provide cross ventilation on at least
two approximately opposite sides of the manufactured home. The installer shall
locate openings as close to the corner of the manufactured home as practical
and shall cover the opening with a corrosive - resistant wire mesh. Dryer vents
and hot water tank pressure release valves shall exhaust on the exterior of the
perimeter skirting. The skirting for each section of the manufactured home
shall have an opening of at least 18 inches by 24 inches with a cover of metal
or pressure- treated wood to allow access to the crawl space. In all cases the
foundation shall be installed before a final sign off can be made.
12) ANCHORING SYSTEM
The building official shall require a single section or multiple section
manufactured home to have an anchoring system. Such an anchoring system
shall be installed per the manufactured installation specification's or according
to the design of a professional, Washington State licensed engineer or
architect. Components of the anchoring system shall have a resistance to
weather deterioration that is at least equal to that of a zinc coating that is not
less than 0.3 inches per square foot of coated surface. Cut edges of zinc -
coated strapping do not need to be coated.
a. An installer shall install, preload, and adjust a ground anchor in
accordance with the anchor manufacturer's instructions. The installer
must supply a copy of the instructions to the building official. Ground
anchors shall be marked with the manufacturer's identification and
model number in a location that is visible to the inspector after the
anchor is installed. The manufacturer of a ground anchor must provide
instructions with each anchor that specifies the kinds of soils for which
the anchor is suitable. Analysis from a WA State licensed engineer may
be required.
b. If concrete slabs or continuous footings are used to transfer the
anchoring loads to the ground, the following requirements apply:
i. Steel rod cast in concrete shall be able to resist the loads and
corrosion as specified for ground anchors.
ii. A concrete slab may be used in place of a ground anchor if it
provides holding strength equal to the required ground anchors.
iii. Analysis from a WA state licensed engineer may be required.
C. Ties shall be of cable, strapping, or other approved materials. Ties shall
be fastened to the ground anchors and drawn tight with turnbuckles,
yoke fasteners, or other approved tension devices. Tension devices shall
end in clevis, forged, or welded eyes. Tension devices shall be designed
to prevent self - disconnection if the ties become slack. Ties shall connect
the ground anchors to the main frame longitudinal members. Ties must
not connect to steel outrigger beams that fasten to the main frame unless
the manufacturer's installation instructions specifically approve the
connection. Diagonal ties must lie at least 45 degrees from the vertical.
d. The installer shall space the ties as evenly as practical and shall locate
a tie within eight feet of each end of the manufactured home. The
installer shall install vertical ties at each detached corner of a clerestory
roof and added -on sections of expandable manufactured homes., the
installer shall install the following number of ties for each I -beam or
other main frame longitudinal member: according to the manufacturer's
specifications or per NCSBCS /ANSI A225.1 -1994, as indicated in the
following chart:
Length of home in Number of vertical ties Number of diagonal
feet (excluding hitch) per detached corner of ties
add -ons
13) ASSEMBLY
The water pipe connection to the manufactured home shall have a main shut-
off valve in compliance with the 2003 Uniform Plumbing Code, Section 605,
adopted as of July 1, 2004. Exterior water lines and ducting under the
manufactured home shall be insulated. In all other respects, utility connections
to the manufactured home, including water, sewer, electricity, and gas shall
comply with the applicable county codes. Accessory structures attached to or
located next to a home, such as awnings, carports, garages, porches, or steps
shall be constructed in conformance with applicable county codes and
structurally independent of the manufactured home unless pre- approved by
manufacturer.
32-54
i 1
i 5
55-73
1 1
1 6
13) ASSEMBLY
The water pipe connection to the manufactured home shall have a main shut-
off valve in compliance with the 2003 Uniform Plumbing Code, Section 605,
adopted as of July 1, 2004. Exterior water lines and ducting under the
manufactured home shall be insulated. In all other respects, utility connections
to the manufactured home, including water, sewer, electricity, and gas shall
comply with the applicable county codes. Accessory structures attached to or
located next to a home, such as awnings, carports, garages, porches, or steps
shall be constructed in conformance with applicable county codes and
structurally independent of the manufactured home unless pre- approved by
manufacturer.
15.04.040 Amendments to the International Fire Code
A. The International Fire Code is amended as follows:
1. Section102.2, Administrative, operational and maintenance provision, is amended to
read as follows:
To provide a reasonable degree of safety to persons occupying existing buildings,
there shall be a fire code inspection, at times determined by the Whatcom County
Fire Marshal, for all Group A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R -1, 2 & 4 and S occupancies.
2. Section 102.6, Referenced code and standards, is amended to read as follows:
The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be those listed in Chapter 45
of this code such codes and standards shall be considered part of the requirements
of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference as determined or
modified by the fire code official. Where differences occur between the provisions of
this code and the referenced standard, the provisions of this code shall apply as
determined or modified by the fire code official.
3. Section 104.10, Fire investigation, is amended to read as follows;
The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office shall have the authority to investigate the
cause, origin and circumstances of any fire, explosion or other hazardous conditions.
Information that could be related to trade secrets or processes shall not be made
part of the public record except as directed by a court of law.
4. Section 104.10.1 is amended to read as follows:
a) The Whatcom County Fire Marshal shall have the authority to render
necessary assistance in the investigation of fires. The Whatcom County Fire
Marshal and members of the office of the county fire marshal designated by
the fire marshal shall have the powers of a limited authority Washington peace
officer as defined in chapter 10.93 RCW.
b) The Whatcom County Sheriff may be petitioned to commission the Whatcom
County Fire Marshal and members of the office of the county fire marshal
recommended by the fire marshal as specially commissioned Washington
peace officers, as defined in chapter 10.93 RCW, upon satisfaction of the
training and other requirements prescribed or approved by the Washington
criminal justice training commission, for the purpose of administering this code.
5. Section 108.1, Board of Appeals, is amended to read as follows:
In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by
the fire marshal relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall
be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The board of appeals shall be
appointed by the governing body and shall hold office at their pleasure. The Fire
Marshal shall be an ex officio member of said board but shall have no vote on any
matter before the board. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conduction its
business, and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a
duplicate copy to the Fire Marshal. The Appeals Board shall be the same board for
all codes appeals.
6. Section 202 is amended to read as follows:
a. Fire Chief. Whenever the term fire chief is referenced in this code it shall
mean Whatcom County Fire Marshal or his /her designee. Except when
specifically amended, the Whatcom County Fire Marshal shall be the Director
of Planning and Development Services.
b. Fire Code Official. Whenever the term fire code official is referenced in this
code it shall mean Whatcom County Fire Marshal or his /her designee. Except
when specifically amended, the Whatcom County Fire Marshal shall be the
Director of Planning and Development Services.
Appendix D, Apparatus access roads, is amended to read as follows:
a. Section D101.1 Scope. Fire apparatus access roads shall be in accordance
with this chapter and all other applicable requirements of the International Fire
Code as required by the Fire Marshal.
b. Section D102.1 Required access. Fire apparatus access roads shall be
provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter constructed
or moved into or within the jurisdiction when the facility is in excess of one
hundred fifty feet (150') from fire apparatus access.
C. Section D103 Minimum Road Specifications
1) Driveways serving one (1) or two (2) residential lots where access is less
then one hundred fifty feet (150) in length. Driveways where building is
less than one hundred fifty feet (150') from approved access roads have
no specific requirement.
2) Driveways over one hundred fifty feet (150') long serving one (1) lot:
i. Width — twelve foot (12') driving surface with turnouts every six
hundred feet (600') when required by the fire marshal. To create a
turnout, the road shall be widened to twenty feet (20') in the direction
of travel for a distance of one hundred feet (100') to allow vehicles to
pull over and allow emergency vehicles to proceed. Turnout shall be
located approximately midpoint for driveways over six hundred feet
(600') but less than one thousand two hundred feet (1200').
ii. Vertical clearance — thirteen foot six inch (13'6 ") unobstructed head
clearance.
iii. Surface — Whatcom County Development Standards WCDS chapter
5 road standards.
iv. Turning radius — 35 foot radii
V. Turnarounds — 20 feet wide 60 feet deep or WCDS chapter 5 road
standards.
vi. Bridges — designed to HS20 load, posted at both end.
vii. Grade — per WCDS chapter 5 road standards.
3) Fire Department Vehicle Access Roads — Access serving other than Two
(2) residential units shall meet the following:
i. Whatcom County Development Standards WCDS Chapter 5 road
standards.
NOTE: These standards apply to existing legal lots of record and
are for building permits only. These standards are in no way
intended to eliminate the need for full compliance with land
division requirements.
ii. The Fire Marshal may make modifications in these standards if the
road is not build -able because of topography, waterways, non-
negotiable grades, or similar conditions. These modifications are
based on:
a) The building being protected by NFPA 13D Automatic Sprinkler
System.
b) Additional fire protection features as required by the Fire
Marshal.
Exceptions may be made for minor additions or small accessory buildings
to existing dwellings when in the opinion of the Fire Marshal the addition
or accessory building will not create significantly more dangerous
situations.
4) Emergency vehicle access roads or driveways shall not be obstructed in
any manner, including the parking of vehicles. Width and clearance
requirements of these standards shall be maintained at all times.
15.04.50 Permit Expirations and Violations of the above referenced codes
A. Expiration
1. Sections 105.5 of the IBC, R105.5 of the IRC and 105 of the IFC are amended as follows:
Every permit issued under the provisions of this code shall expire and become null and
void, if the work authorized by such permit is not commenced within 180 days from the
date of issuance of such permit, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or
abandoned at any time after the work is commenced for a period of 180 days. The
building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for a
period not more then 180 days each, in the case of fire code related permits the fire code
official shall replace building official and this expiration and extension shall not apply to
open burning permits. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable causes
demonstrated. Before such work can recommence, a new permit shall be first obtained to
do so, and the fee therefore shall be one -half the amount required for a new permit for
such work, provided no changes have been made, or will be made in the original plans
and specifications for such work; and provided, further that such suspension or
abandonment has not exceeded one year. An operational permit under the IFC shall
remain in effect until reissued, renewed, or revoked or for such a period of time as
specified in the permit. These permits are not transferable and any change in occupancy,
operation, tenancy, or ownership shall require that a new permit be issued.
B. Construction Without Permit
1. The following paragraph shall be added to Sections 113.1 of the IBC, R113.1 of the IRC
and 113.1 of the IFC:
When construction has occurred on a site without a valid permit as required by this
chapter, any and all permits or approvals issued by the county may be denied for that
site until the issue has been resolved. In addition, prompt restoration of the site to its
original condition will be required. The issuance or granting of a permit or approval of
plans and specifications shall not be deemed or construed to be a permit for, or an
approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code. No permit presuming to
give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code shall be valid, except
insofar as the work or use for which it authorizes is lawful. The issuance or granting of a
permit or approval of plans shall not prevent the Director of Planning & Development
Services, the Building Official or the Fire Code Official from thereafter requiring the
correction of errors in said plans and specifications or from preventing construction
operations being carried on thereunder when in violation of this code or of any other
ordinance or from revoking any certificate of approval when issued in error.
C. Stop Work Orders
1. Sections 114.3 of the IBC, R114.3 of the IRC and 114.3 of the IFC are amended as
follows:
Any person, firm or corporation who shall continue any work after having been served
with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to
remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be liable to a fine of not less than $500.00
dollars or more than $1000.00 or one year in jail, or both. Under no circumstances may
the court defer or suspend any portion of the minimum $500.00 fine for any conviction
under this section. Each day or part thereof of noncompliance with the order to stop
work shall constitute a separate offense.
D. Violation Deemed Misdemeanor,
1. Sections 114.3 of the IBC, R114.3 of the IRC and 114.3 of the IFC are amended as
follows:
Any violation of the provisions of the International Building, Fire, Residential or other
related codes as herein adopted is a misdemeanor. Any person, firm or corporation
violating any of the provisions of this code or failing to comply with any of the
requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the
approved construction documents or directive of the Building Official or the Fire Code
Official or the Director of Planning and Development Services or of a permit or
certification used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor,
punishable by a fine of not more than $1000.00 dollars or by imprisonment not
exceeding 90 days, or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation
continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
a. EXCEPTION: The International Fire Code Section 307 Open Burning and
Recreational Fires shall constitute Class 1 civil infractions pursuant to RCW
7.80.120. The maximum penalty and the default amount for such violations
shall be consistent with Chapter 7.80 RCW. All violations shall be heard and
determined in accordance with the system established in Chapter 7.80 RCW.
After having been found to have committed two successive infractions for
violations of the same provision of this title on the same property, any person,
firm, or corporation who continues to violate this title in the same manner on
the same property shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of
not more than $1000.00 or by imprisonment not exceeding 90 days, or both
such fines and imprisonment. Each day that a violation continues after due
notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
E. Notice of Violations
1. Section 109.2 of the IFC is amended as follows:
When the fire code official finds a building, premises, vehicle, storage facility or outdoor
area that is in violation of this code, the fire code official is authorized to prepare a
written notice of violation describing the conditions deemed unsafe and, when
compliance is not immediate, specifying a time for re- inspection. In special situations
citations could be issued to individuals violating this code.
Civil Penalty
1. Any person, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this chapter, or of the
codes adopted by reference by this chapter, shall be deemed guilty of a civil offense
and each day during which such violation is continued or committed shall constitute a
separate offense, and shall be fined not more than $1,000 for each offense. The penalty
provided in the above section shall be imposed by a notice in writing from the Building
Official or the Fire Code Official or the Director of Planning and Development Services;
either by certified service, to the person, firm or corporation incurring the same from the
Whatcom County Department of Planning and Development Services. The notice shall
include the amount of the penalty imposed and shall describe the violation with
reasonable particularity in ordering the act(s) constituting the violation(s) to cease and
desist or, in appropriate cases, requiring necessary corrective action to be taken within
a specific and reasonable time.
2. Within 30 days after the notice is received, the person incurring the penalty may apply
in writing to the building official for remission or mitigation of such penalty. Upon receipt
of the application, said department may remit or mitigate the penalty upon whatever
terms the department in its discretion deems proper. The final decision of the Building
Official, Fire Code Official or the Director of Planning and Development Services on
mitigation or revision shall be reviewed by the county council, if the person being
penalized files a written appeal therewith of said decision, within 10 days of its
issuance. The decision of the county council regarding the penalty imposed shall be
final.
3. In addition to the civil penalties described above, the prosecuting attorney may in his
discretion bring such injunctive, declaratory or other actions as deemed necessary to
ensure that violations of this chapter are prevented or cease, and to otherwise enforce
the provisions of this chapter.