HomeMy WebLinkAboutord2021-007strike• Whatcom County COUNTY COURTHOUSE
311 Grand Avenue, Ste #105
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
(360)778-5010
Agenda Bill Master Report
File Number: AB2021-096
File ID: AB2021-096 Version: 1 Status: Adopted
File Created: 01/29/2021
Department: Planning and
Development Services
Department
Assigned to: Council
Agenda Date: 02/23/2021
Entered by: CMetz@co.whatcom.wa.us
File Type: Ordinance Requiring a Public Hearing
Primary Contact Email: cmetz@co.whatcom.wa.us
TITLE FOR AGENDA ITEM:
Final Action: 02/23/2021
Enactment #: ORD 2021-007
Ordinance adopting amendments to Whatcom County Code Title 15 (Buildings & Construction) to
adopt by reference the 2018 Editions of the International Building and other associated codes
SUMMARY STATEMENT OR LEGAL NOTICE LANGUAGE:
An ordinance adopting amendments to Whatcom County Code Title 15 (Buildings & Construction) to
adopt by reference the 2018 Editions of the International Building, Residential, Mechanical, Fuel Gas,
Existing Building, Fire Codes, and the National Fuel Gas, Washington State Energy, Uniform Plumbing,
& Liquefied Petroleum Gas Codes, and the 1997 Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous
Buildings, as amended as set forth herein, as required by RCW Chapter 19.27
HISTORY OF LEGISLATIVE FILE
Date: Acting Body:
Action:
Sent To:
02/09/2021 Council INTRODUCED FOR PUBLIC Council
HEARING
Aye: 7 Browne, Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Frazey, and Kershner
Nay: 0
Absent: 0
02/23/2021 Council ADOPTED
Aye: 5 Browne, Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, and Frazey
Nay: 2 Elenbaas, and Kershner
Whatcom County Page 1 Printed on 212412021
Agenda Bill Master Report Continued (AB2021-096)
Absent: 0
Attachments: Staff Memo, Proposed Ordinance, Exhibit A
Whatcom County Page 2 Printed on 212412021
PROPOSED BY: Planning
INTRODUCTION DATE: 2/09/2021
ORDINANCE NO. 2021-007
ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO WHATCOM COUNTY CODE TITLE 15 (BUILDINGS & CONSTRUCTION) TO
ADOPT BY REFERENCE THE 2018 EDITIONS OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING, RESIDENTIAL,
MECHANICAL, FUEL GAS, EXISTING BUILDING, FIRE CODES, AND THE NATIONAL FUEL GAS,
WASHINGTON STATE ENERGY, UNIFORM PLUMBING, & LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS CODES, AND THE
1997 UNIFORM CODE FOR THE ABATEMENT OF DANGEROUS BUILDINGS, AS AMENDED AS SET FORTH
HEREIN, AS REQUIRED BY RCW CHAPTER 19.27
WHEREAS, the State Building Code Council has updated and amended the State Building Code
by adopting the International Codes, 2018 Edition, with modifications; and,
WHEREAS, RCW Chapter 19.27 requires local jurisdictions to administer and enforce the State
Building Code within the unincorporated areas of its boundaries; and,
WHEREAS, RCW 19.27.040 allows local jurisdictions to adopt appropriate modifications and/or
amendments to the State Building Code; and,
WHEREAS, some identified modifications and/or amendments to the State Building Code as it
applies to Whatcom County are desirable for various reasons; and,
WHEREAS, the local adoption of the referenced codes will promote and protect the health,
safety, and welfare of occupants or users of buildings and structures and the general public, and will
fulfill the state -mandated enforcement obligation; and,
WHEREAS, the Whatcom County Council held a public hearing on February 23, 2021 to review
findings and staff recommendations and to consider any public testimony and written correspondence
regarding this matter.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Whatcom County Council that:
Section 1. Amendments to the Whatcom County Code are hereby adopted as shown in Exhibit A.
Section 2. Staff is authorized to work with Code Publishing to correct and update any cross-
references made ineffective by these amendments.
Page 1 of 2
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 23rd day of February , 2021.
w;^
WHATtJI�I CiUNTY(1iJ ,
WHAfC�TfV1Ol�NTY<WX��'�N��ON
Dana Browfv- i� xCrc �ncihClerk
�p
APPROVE b'as,to forms
Royce Buckingham / Approved via email / LB
Civil Deputy Prosecutor
Barry Buchanan, Council Chair
Approved ( ) Denied
SJLI—
Satpal Sidhu, xecutive
Date: Z' Z(/Z0r- d
Page 2 of 2
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update
Title 15 BUILDINGS & CONSTRUCTION
Chapter 15.04 Building Codes
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 Chapters 19.27 and 70.92 RCW or successor, for the purpose of establishing
rules and regulations for the construction, alteration, rerraevaIre location, enlargement, replacement,
repair, demolition,, equipment, use and occupancy, location,ar}d-maintenance, removal, and demolition
of every -ef buildings orand structures; or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or
structures, including permits and penalties.
A. The 20152018--International Building Code (IBC), including the 2152018 International Existing
Building Code (IEBC), 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC), Appendix B, except
as amended per Ordinance No. 2007-024, Board of Appeals, and including Appendices C, E. and J, as
published by the International Code Council, hereinafter referred to as the IBC, as modified by
Chapter 51-50 WAC or successor; and as amended in WCC 15.04.015, 15.04.020, and 15.04.050;+s
heFelby adopted by refeFenee.
B. The 20152018 International Residential Code (IRC), including Appendices E, G, artd-K, and Q as
published by the International Code Council, hereinafter referred to as the IRC, and as modified by
Chapter 51-51 WAC or successor and as amended in WCC 15.04.030 and in WCC 15.04.050, +s
heFeb - adopted by Fefere^^^ with the following additions, deletions and exceptions; provided, that
Chapters 11 and 25 through 42 of this code are not adopted.
C. The 20152018 International Fire Code (IFC), including Appendix A, except as amended per Ordinance
No. 2007-0247 jBoard of Appealsj; Appendices B, C, and D and most current supplements, as
published by the International Code Council, hereinafter referred to as the IFC, as modified by
Chapter 51-54A WAC or successor, and as amended in WCC 15.04.040 and 15.04.050.
D. The 29152018 International Mechanical Code (IMC), including Appendix A, as published by the
International Code Council, hereinafter referred to as the IMC, as modified by Chapter 51-52 WAC
and as amended by WCC 15.04.050 or successor.
E. The 20152018 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), as published by the International Code Council,
hereinafter referred to as the IFGC, as modified by Chapter 51-52 WAC and as amended by WCC
15.04.050 or successor.
F. The standards for liquefied petroleum gas installations shall be the 20152018 Edition of NFPA 58
(Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code) and the P9352018 Edition of ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54 (National Fuel
Gas Code), adopted by reference in Chapter 51-52 WAC and as amended by WCC 15.04.050 or
successor.
G. The 20152018 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), the 201-28
Uniform Plumbing Code Standards (IAPMO/ANSI UPC 1-20148), and/or all current referenced
standards, and including Appendices A, B, C, and I, as published by the International Association of
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, hereinafter referred to as the UPC, as modified by Chapter 51-56
WAC and as amended by WCC 15.04.050 or successor.
H. 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 Chapter 51-50 WAC, IBC Chapters 10 and 11, IBC Appendix E, and ICC/ANSI A117.1 2009
or successor.
I. The 20152018 Washington State Energy Code, per Chapter 51-11C WAC, jCommercial Provision
Chapter 51-11R WAG jResidential Provisionsl and appendix chapters or successor, hereinafter
referred to as the WSEC, promulgated by the State Building Code Council.
J. The Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings, 1997 Edition, or successor.
K_Design data for Whatcom County shall be per WCC 15.04.030(E)j, '�0-1) Climatic and
Geographic Design Criteria).
15.04.012 Definitions.
The following words shall have the following meanings in this Title and throughout the codes adopted in
§ 15.01.010:
"Administrative Authority" is the Department of Planning & Development Services, the Building
Services Division and the Whatcom County Building Official.
"Agricultural Building." Livestock shelters or buildings, including shade structures and milking barns;
poultry buildings or shelters; barns; storage of equipment and machinery used exclusively in agriculture;
horticultural structures including detached production greenhouses and crop protection shelters;
sheds; grain silos; and stables. (IBC Appendix C, Group U-Agricultural Buildings)
"Agricultural Processing Building and/or Facility." Buildings/facilities where agricultural products are
cooled frozen or dried and packaged in their otherwise unaltered, primary state for shipping to
distribution sales outlets. Agricultural processing buildings/facilities may include conveyors, refrigeration
equipment and rooms other applicable processing or environmental mechanical equipment offices
employee facilities restrooms product and product packaging storage, loading docks, and similar
applicable accessory appurtenances.
Although agricultural processing buildings/facilities are determined by Whatcom County to be a
Group U occupancy for purposes of determining fire flow requirements they represent a more intensive
use than agricultural buildings based on the typical number of personnel (even if seasonal), type of
equipment and typical operations Appropriate applicable health fire and life/safety codes and
regulations will be applied in the review process of these buildings/facilities.
Cooking modifying altering combining and/or other secondary food processing/ manufacturing is
not considered agricultural processing. The primary use for this type of processing is determined to be a
Group F occupancy per applicable provisions of the IBC and other adopted codes and regulations
"Building Official" is the Director of the Department of Planning & Development Services or his/her
designee. See WCC 15.04.015 (Department of Building Safety ).
"Building Site" is any site proposed for the location of a manufactured home, including sites within
mobile home parks.
"Critical Areas" means those resource and hazard areas as designated in WCC 16.16 (Critical Areas).
2
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update
October 28, 2020
"Director" means the director of the Whatcom County Department of Planning and Development
Services, or his/her designee.
"Fire Chief." Whenever the term Fire Chief is referenced in this code it shall mean Whatcom County
Fire Marshal (Fire Code Official) or his/her designee, as identified in IFC §103, except as stated in IFC
§104 11 and/or where the Fire Marshal has delegated a specific responsibility to the Fire Chief of a given
fire district by verbal, written, and/or historic agreement.
"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, as identified in IFC §103.2 and as amended per WCC
15.04.040.
"Fire -Flow." The flow rate of a water supply, measured at 20 pounds per square inch (psi) (138 kPa)
residual pressure, that is available for firefighting.
"Fire -Flow Calculation Area." The floor area, in square feet (m2 ), used to determine the required
fire flow.
"HUD" is the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development.
"Installer" shall either be the owner or a State licensed mobile home installer.
"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. It is also defined and cross-referenced per the current adopted edition of the IRC, §R202
(Definitions, MANUFACTURED HOME).
"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 f NMHCSSI Act
of 1974).
"Ordinary High Water Mark": iYhe mark or line 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 as that condition existed on
June 1 1971 as it may naturally change thereafter, or as it may change thereafter in accordance with
approved development• provided, that in any area where the OHWM cannot be found, the OHWM
adioining saltwater shall be the line of mean higher high tide and the OHWM adioining fresh water shall
be the line of mean high water. For braided streams, the OHWM is found on the banks forming the
outer limits of the depression within which the braiding occurs. --- comment [CES1]: Amended tothat inthesMP
"Permanent Foundation" means concrete blocks on a concrete footing or slab, or other approved
engineered foundation systems
Tiny Home A tiny home is a single-family dwelling unit that is 400 square feet or less in floor area
(excluding sleeping lofts). There are two types of tiny homes as described below. Any other form is - comment'[CM2]: This definition matches the
considered a recreational vehicle. consistent 11 with the definition of a park model in
1. Site -Built Tinv Home. A tiny home built on -site on a permanent foundation that meets the WAC 296 150P 00200.
minimum requirements of the International Residential Code (IRC), including provisions of
Appendix Q and is reviewed and inspected by Whatcom County.
2 Manufactured Tiny Home. A factory -built tiny home bearing a certification tag from the
Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) or other approved third party
inspection agency stating it is approved for use as a single-family residence per the current
3
Exhibit A: 2018 Buildine Codes U
October 28, 2020
edition of the International Residential Code (IRC) or Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
requirements. Manufactured tiny homes usually have wheels and a chassis when they come out
of the factory, and typically have the wheels removed prior to placing it on its manufacturer -
approved foundation.
— Comment Moved to 15.04.020(A)
S e e ti a 109 i s am. nrl nrl -.r fn 1l....,�.
and n el nt SeFyirt s Depart.,- eRt I\A GRQS1
an ;IternRte designee at h'r/her.d'r rntien
eenewFenee E)fthe appeinting authaFity, the Building 04iGial shall have the authe�ity to appoint
a Deputy 1361i'diRg QffiGi@l, the rP_,1a4_3d teehnieal officers, iRspeeteFs, plans examiners and nthpr
empleyees. Such ..1.,. ees shall have pewers s .delegated by the Building Officia4.
15.04.016 Project Permit Review Procedures.
All applications for project permits shall be reviewed and processed in accordance with ACC Chaptef
Title 22.05 W C (Land Use and Development), except as otherwise stated within this title. Appeals of
this Title's fire and building code requirements shall be made to the Board of Appeals per current
building code. The Hearing Examiner shall be the appeal body for appeals of non -fire and building code
requirements associated with project permits required by this Title.
15.04.020 Amendments to the International Building Code (IBC).
A. IBC §103 is amended as follows:
§103.1 Creation of Enforcement Agency. The Department of Building Safety is hereby created
and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the Building Official. The Department of
Building Safety is hereby referred to as the Building Services Division of the Whatcom County
Planning and Development Services Department (WCPDS).
§103.2 Appointment. The Director of Planning and Development Services is the Building Official.
The Director may appoint an alternate designee at their discretion.
§103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this iurisdiction and with the
concurrence of the appointing authority, the Building Official shall have the authority to appoint
a Deputy Building Official the related technical officers, inspectors, plans examiners, and other
employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the Building Official) - comment [CES4]: Moved tom 11114.1111
B. IBC §104 is amended as follows:
See#Ge �104.17{General] is amended with the following additional language:
4
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
For matters related to flood review of building permits The Building Official d Fars to WCC Title
177IFlood Damage Preventionl7and WCC Chapter 16.16 (Critical Areas) shall control.
In See-tiee �104.117 (.Alternate Materials, Design and Methods of Constructionl, the last sentence is
amended as follows:
Where the alternative material, design, or method of construction is not approved, the
Building Official shall respond in writing, stating the reasons why the alternative was not
approved, when a determination request is submitted to the Building Official in writing.
C. IBC §105 is amended as follows:
1. Seetie+4-�105.1; JRequiredZ is amended to include the following:
105.1.3 Commercial project proposals require pre-screening for a waiver {from pFe applieatien
rneetieg) or a pre -application meeting prior to permit application submittal. Pre-screening may
be waived at the discretion of the Building Official for minor projects such as simple signs, single
unit small equipment foundations, and projects of similar minor scale and impact. Information
and document submittals for the purposes of waiver or pre -application are not intended to
meet the standard for a complete permit application and do not constitute project vesting.
However, information, requirements, and conditions received by the applicant(s) and/or their
agents or consultants for a given project proposal, as part of the waiver or pre -application
process, will be considered vested, regardless of change of adopted codes or regulations, if a
complete permit application is received within 30 consecutive days from the date of waiver or
pre -application meeting. Such information, requirements, and conditions are not intended or
represented as a complete or comprehensive list of project requirements. Significant changes in
the scope of a project proposal may require additional screening for another waiver or pre -
application meeting.
105.1.4 Whatcom County (the Eeunty) may require that a covenant or agreement be recorded
against the deed(s) applicable to the location and/or operation of a given project to inform
future property owners of the current restrictions or approved land uses. The County may draft
the covenant or agreement upon whatever terms the County in its discretion deems proper.
§105.165 A coordinated master site plan (MSP), demonstrating consistency in the layout of the
project proposal with all applicable regulatory requirements, is required to be submitted by the
applicant and/or project design professional in substantial charge prior to permit issuance. In
general, a coordinated MSP will be required for projects exceeding a construction value of
$200,000:99, but may be required for any project the Building Official deems necessary. County
staff will review the site plan(s) in the application file for regulatory conflicts and discrepancies
prior to plan check. County staff will notify the applicant and/or design professional of identified
conflicts or discrepancies to be reconciled. The master site plan may be one page which
incorporates all applicable regulatory review overlays when practical. It may also include
multiple overlay pages for readability purposes provided they have been verified by County staff
19
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update
October 28, 2020
for regulatory consistency. Once the coordinated MSP has been reviewed and approved,
application review processing will continue.
105.1.6 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 valuation and not
requiring plans and specifications and not in conflict with state or local zoning and
environmental policies and with the prior approval of the Building Official.
105.1.7 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 -for the lawful enforcement of the
provisions of the respective codes. The applicant shall file all forms with applicable fees.
105.1.8 No person, firm, partnership, corporation, or other entity shall perform work as
provided herein until such time as they receive verification of approval of their application by
the seUaty Building Official and have been given written notice of a valid permit.
2. �ny vielatien of this chapter shall he cause f9F the BHildiRg Offi(31@1 t9 Feveke thp mail
meehapical and plumbing eedes supeFseded by this chapter shall Festimp in f, ill forep and effea
.............. ._.._11 1 1 1 11__.__
2_Seetiea-§105.27 (Work Exempt from Permitl7 is amended read to PP;4d as follows:
Building:
1_One-story detached, non -habitable eGeupied accessory structures without basements, used
as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided that:
i_44The fleeeareabuilding footprint does not exceed 120 square feet, Jill sq. ml
}measured outside wall to outside wall-
b.
�}Accessory structures maintain a minimum separation of 10 {tern) -feet [3,048 mm]
between exterior walls, and a minimum separation of 876 feig4t--feet [2438 mm]
between eaves of adjacent buildings on the same propertylaad
c_4+prev+ded-tha _ he accessory structures meet all applicable setback requirements!
d. -4}-The maximum wall height is 10 feet (3,048 mm);-
e -54he maximum building height is 11 feet 6 inches (3,505 mm); and,..
f. }-The maximum eave overhang is 24 inches (610 mm).
1-2. Fences not over 7 feet (2,134 mm) high.
�3. Retaining walls that are do not retain more thanever 4 feet (1,219 mm) of unbalanced back
fill in height differential measured from the lower finished ground level and the upper
finished ground level , unless supporting
surcharge or grades exceeding a 1:3 slope above or below the wall or impounding Class I, II,
or IIIA liquids.
-3-4. Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons
(18,925 L)- aAnd the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
4:5.Sidewalks, walking surfaces, and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade
and not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible route.
6
r�Comment [CESS]:.Deleted, as it makes no sense
as a penalty, especially since we're moving to
electronic submittals.
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update
October 28, 2020
5-6. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops, and similar finish work.
6-7.Temporary motion picture, television, and theater stage sets and scenery.
7 8. Prefabricated swimming pools installed entirely above -ground and? accessory to a Group R-
3.
8-.9. Shade cloth or soft cover structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes and not
including service systems.
1:10. Swings and other playground equipment.
48:11. Window awnings in Group R-3 and U occupancies; supported by an exterior wall which
do not project more than 54 inches (1,,372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require
additional support.
44,12. Non fixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters, and partitions not over 5 feet 9
inches (1,753 mm) in height.
13. Bridges, box culverts, and similar passageway structures built over depressions or obstacles,
hereinafter referred to as bridges, are structures and may be deemed as exemptth^r,�f^�^
not exempt per 1ectien � 05 ' ^x^^^t as interpreted and quantified in Building Services
Division Code Interpretation #2002-05. All other bgridges shall be designed and constructed
per the current adopted Whatcom County Development Standards (WCDS), Chapter 57
f Road Standards] Sect4en-§5137 ]Bridges and Associated Retaining Wallsj;, and per
applicable portions of IFC SectGe+ 503. Bridges constructed as a requirement or condition
of subdivision or short subdivision approval7 per
ems, WCC Title 21 (Land Division Regulations), and which must receive final approval
from the Public Works Technical Administrator, shall be deemed by the Building Official to
have met the permit requirements per IBC &Qct,m^^^ �105. The Technical Administrator is
designated as the County Engineer, per WCDS7 Chapter 57(Road Standards], gecti^^ �502.
4-2-714. Temporary construction site office and storage structures placed at a permitted lob site
during construction may be allowed on a temporary basis and shall be removed upon final
approval of the construction and prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy. A
temporary construction site office or storage structure is a portable structure for which the
primary purpose is to securely house equipment and supplies, and which may serve as a
temporary office during construction of a protect
3. Sectie^ �105.37 (Application for Permitl is amended to 4iek de-r�lace the first paragraph with
the following:
To obtain the permit, the applicant shall first file an application in writing on a form provided by
the Department and shall include all items as stated in the Department's Administrative Manual.
Such applications shall:
4. Sectien-§105.57 fExpirationl is amended to include the following:
105.5.1 Land Disturbance permits issued for grading activity shall expire if work authorized
is not commenced within 180 days of issuance unless a phased plan has been approved by
the Director. The Technical Ad.. inistFat^ Director is authorized to
grant one extension of 180 days if the request is submitted prior to expiration of the permit.
The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause(s) demonstrated. If the
project is located within a Water Resource speeia1 management areaProtection Overlay
7
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
District (WCC 20.71) or the Lake Whatcom Watershed Overlay District (WCC 20.51), arm
which are subject to seasonal clearing activity limitations, the extension shall begin at the
commencement of the construction season, pursuant to WCC 20.80.735 (Water Resource
Special Management Areas).
105.5.2 Grading permits also expire and become invalid when the total approved volume
has been placed into or excavated from the approved area.
5. Seetien D07.27 (Construction Documentsl7 is amended to include the following:
107.2.7 Construction documents may be submitted in Standard English or Metric
measurement. However, the Building Official may require, at his/her discretion, that any
Metric construction documents be converted by the applicant to Standard English
measurement, which then may be submitted independently or in tandem with Metric
documents.
6. Sprtig'^^ §109.67 jRefundsL is amended to include the following policy:
109.6.1 The refund policy applies to the current editions and amends the respective
Sections of the IBC, Sectkon �109; IRC, Seetien-§R108.5; IFC, IMC, SeCt+ea
�106.5.3; IFGC, Seetk4,,-�106.6.3; and UPC79eetie-R-�103.4.5, as adopted per WCC 15.04.010.
109.6.2 The Building Official may authorize refunding any fee hereunder which was
erroneously paid or collected at 100%.
109.6.3 The Building Official may authorize refunding of not more than 80% of the fee paid
for a building permit when no work has been done under a building permit issued in
accordance with the current editions listed in this policy.
109.6.4 The Building Official may authorize refunding of not more than 80% of the plan
review fee paid when an application for a building permit for which a plan review fee has
been paid is withdrawn or cancelled before any plan reviewing is done.
109.6.5 The Building Official shall not authorize the refunding of any fee paid, except upon
written application filed by the original permittee not later than 180 days after the date of
fee payment.
7. Section -D13, JBoard of AppealsL is amended as follows:
Appeals related to grading activity, per Appendix J and as amended per SprtiA°n^^ WCC
15.04.020j, "—�&ems' ^^ Bl, 'that include, are associated with in any way, or
promulgated within any regulated critical areas, seems WCC Chapter 16.16-1 are according
to the provisions of WCC Sections 16.16.280 (Appeals) and 16.16.285 (Penalties and
Enforcement) and shall be the decision of the Whatcom County Hearings Examiner.
&D. Appendix J7 JGradingl7 is adopted and amended as follows:
1. 113G Seet;G;4194)101-4-
,JGenerall; is amended peF this s bseetiaR B, to includefng an additional
paragraph to read as follows:
J101.3 The Director of tk�--Planning and Development Services flepartmeRt OF the
nir et^ s desigRee al e fe ed to heg.eip Ar the T^ h na tr,t^ is hereby
authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of IBC Appendix J7 jGradingl ;"was
amended herein ` GG Chapter 15, SeGtien 15.94.020. The TeehRie al. ndrnini tFat^.Director
8
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update
October 28, 2020
shall have the authority to render interpretations of the amended Appendix and to adopt
policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such
interpretations, policies, and procedures shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose
of amended Appendix J. Such policies and procedures shall not have the effect of waiving
requirements specifically provided for in amended Appendix J.
2. $J102.1, Definitions: is amended to add the ---(Comment [CES6]: All definitions moved to 1
following sentence: Words not defined herein shall be as defined in WCC 15.04.12 (Definitions). l 15.04.012
l EARTH MATERIAL: A Feek, at al sell e aRy mbiRatien thereef.
critical area,; along with asseeiated buffers ideRtified under WGG 16.14&'
vii. andwildlife habitat.- Rse vat en aFeao.
viii. QRPINAR4 HIGH %AIATER. MARK� The maFk 9R all lakes, FiveFs, StFP-ams and tidal that
will be found by examining the beds and baRks and asee4aining where the presenee and
mark wpeR h 'I a ehameter .Jilt'.. t fmm that of the abutting upland i Fespeet t
3. The following shall be added to Se4ie+�,$J103.1:
Upon receipt of a fill and grade permit application on properties within 500 feet of a site
known to contain archaeological resources that are outside of the Shoreline Management
Program Jurisdiction (WCC Title 23) and/or the Point Roberts Special District (WCC 20.72),
the County shall notify the applicant that the project's location is within an archaeologically
sensitive area and Federal, State and Tribal Laws and Regulations pertaining to cultural
resources may apply.
Grading permit expiration is per WCC 22.05.140 (Expiration of Project Permits)I C c- +;^
4. The numbered exemption list of 5eetie+ J103.27 jExemptionsl is amended as follows:
1. Grading in an isolated, self-contained area, provided there is no danger to the public,,—;-4Rd
that such grading will not adversely affect adjoining properties or critical areast and f Trth -r
pFevided that the activity occurs outside of the jurisdiction of the Whatcom County
Shoreline Management Program (WCC Title 23)i and that fill does not exceed 250 cubic
yardsi and is associated with a residence authorized by a valid building permit.
2. Excavation for construction of a structure permitted under this code, provided that said
construction has been duly reviewed for compliance with the Whatcom County Shoreline
Management Program (WCC Title 23) and the Whatcom County Critical Areas Ordinance
(WCC 16.16).
3. Cemetery graves.
9
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
4. Refuse disposal sites controlled by and appropriately permitted in accordance with other
regulations.
5. Excavations for wells or trenches for utilities, provided the activity occurs outside of the
jurisdiction of the Whatcom County Shoreline Management Program (WCC Title 23) and
there are no adverse impacts to critical areas.
6. 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.
7. Exploratory excavations performed under the direction of a registered design professional
provided that said excavations have been duly reviewed for compliance with the Whatcom
County Shoreline Management Program (WCC Title 23) or critical areas
erd'Rane-eregulations (WCC Chapter 16.16).
8. A fill less than 1 foot in depth and placed on natural terrain with a slope flatter than 1 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 Shoreline Management Program.
9. Exemptions listed per WCC 20.80.733 (Land Clearing Exemptions).
5. The following requirements are added to �J104.27 JSite Plan Requirementsl:
1. In addition to the provisions of Sec#en-§107, 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
6. �J104.3; JGeotechnical Reportl, is amended as follows:
When required by the Director, a geotechnical report prepared by a
registeFed design professional shall be provided consistent with WCC 16.16.375
(Geologically Hazardous Areas — Review and Reporting Requirements).. The report shall
eentain at least the following:
The natwFe and .d'str'h t'n of existing seils;
!"Heel and r erl -. t'o r far gF,.d'n pFeee.dwrer.
Sails design : teria fer a stFuetures eF embankments required to a relish the
Where necessary, slope stability studies, and and cenclusions FegaFdimn-g
site g elegy; end
�rcc-6coTob-per cmcr
10
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
approvedUnless approved by the Technical AdministrateF, a building permit shall net he issued OR
foil without @H eRgineeFed sails FepeFt and r of of supeFvised, m n;teed
I t by the r iste Fed dreg refer aI
AddltiARal iRfAFFRatieR may be Fequired at the diseretian of the Technical
slid permit, as requiFed by this chapter
deteFm;Res that the nature of the werk applied faFis suel; that a Fepert is Rat ReGessary.
7. Add the following as Sectk)p-�J104.5; (Surface Mining Reportl:
Grading permit plans associated with surface mining shall be consistent with a surface
mining reclamation plan as required and approved by the Washington Department of
Natural Resources.
15.04.030 Amendments to the International Residential Code (IRC).
A. In Seetle-p,§R104.11 (Alternative Materials and Methods of Construction and Equipment), the last
sentence is amended as follows:
Where the alternative material, design, or method of construction is not approved, the Building
Official shall respond in writing, stating the reasons why the alternative was not approved, when
a determination request is submitted to the Building Official in writing.
B. Sec#GR-�R105.1; jRequiredj- is amended as follows:
§R105.1.1 Whatcom County (the Eet+pty) may require that a covenant or agreement be
recorded against the deed(s) applicable to the location and/or operation of a given project to
inform future property owners of the current restrictions or approved land uses. The County
may draft the covenant or agreement upon whatever terms the County in its discretion deems
proper.
C. SeeVKw,-�R105.2; jWork Exempt from PermitL is amended to read as follows:
1 One-story detached non -habitable accessory structures without basements, used as tool and
storage sheds playhouses, and similar uses, provided that:
a The building footprint does not exceed 200 square feet (18.6 sq. m) measured outside wall
to outside wall;
b. Accessory structures maintain a minimum separation of 10 feet [3,048 mml between
exterior walls and a minimum separation of 6 feet [2438 mm] between eaves of adjacent
buildings on the same property;
c. The accessory structure meet all applicable setback requirements;
d. The maximum wall height is 10 feet (3,048 mm);
e. The maximum building height is 11 feet 6 inches (3,505 mm); and,
f. The maximum eave overhang is 24 inches (610 mm).
sterage sheds, playheuses and similar uses, provided that i.) the floer a-rea dee; not P-weeed P-00
ements.
11
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
2. Fences not over 7 feet (2,134 mm) high.
3. Retaining walls that a4:edo not retain more thaneve 4 feet (1,219 mm) of unbalanced back fill in
height differential measured from the lower finished ground level and upper finished ground
levelbattem of the feetiRg te the tap of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge, or grades
exceeding a 1:3 slope above or below the wall or impounding Class I, 11, or IIIA liquids.
4. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18,927
L)-Aand the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
5. Sidewalks, walking surfaces, 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 that are less than 24 inches deep, or as per the 2018
International Swimming Pool/Spa Code (ISPSC).
8. Swings and other playground equipment.
9. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall +cka that do not project more than 54 inches
(1,372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
10. Uncovered decks not exceeding 200 square feet (18.58 sq. m) in area, that are no more than 30
inches (762 mm) above grade at any point, not attached to a dwelling or accessory structure,
and do not serve the exit door required by See iewR311.4.
4G 11 Flag poles not over 25 feet (7,620 mm) in height. Flag poles must meet property line set
backs.
D. sec ie+> In R105.37 JApplication for Permitl- the first paragraph is replaced with ^^� � dpd +^
the following:
To obtain the permit, the applicant shall first file an application in writing on a form provided by
the Department and shall include all items as stated in the Department's Administrative Manual.
Such application shall:
is amended as follows:
1. Figure R301.2(6) shall be interpreted using Table 1, below.
1, r a Snow Lead Table lan 1997•
Table 1. Ground Snow Load, January 1997
Whatcom County
Approx. Average Elevation feet above
mean sea level)
Revised Ground Snow
Load As
Revised Roof Snow Load
sf
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
L nden
103
24
25
Maple Falls
643
77
77
Mt. Baker Ski
Area
4,200
588
588
12
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
Whatcom County
Approx, Average Elevation feet above
mean sea level
Revised Ground Snow
Load s
Revised Roof Snow Load
s
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
25
2. FeetnNotes on Table 1 Ground Snow Load:
a. Any proposal can challenge the above design load with engineer or architect stamped and
signed calculations and criteria.
b. Buildings where the roof snow load exceeds 30 psf may require architect or engineer review.
c_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 2012 IBC and/or the most current edition of the Snow Load Analysis for
Washington.
3. Other design criteria) shall be as follows:
a. Wind Speed (mph): IRC — Vult = 110 mph [Figure R301.2(4)B]. Vult = IBC Risk Category 1-100
mph [Figure 1609.3(3)]; IBC Risk Category II — 110 mph [Figure 1609.3(1)1; IBC Risk Category III
and IV — 115 mph [Figure 1609.3(2)].
b. Seismic Design: Zone DO/D1; Design Category D (See IBC §1613 and/or ASCE 7)
c. Subject to Damage from Weathering: Moderate
d. Frost Line Depth: 18" (west of longitude 122° 54' 30", approximately at mile post 35 of State
Route 542, Mt. Baker Highway)
e. Termite: None
f. Decay: Moderate
g. Winter Design Temp: 19' F
h. Ice Shield Underlayment Req.: No
i. Air Freezing Index: 260
j. Mean Annual Temperature: 48° F
€-F. IRC Appendix E; JManufactured Homesj is entirely replaced with the following:
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
13
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
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 her; 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
Words shall be as defined in WCC 15.04.12 (Definitions).
R 'l�''T*ding C DMsian, d the Whateem County Building Offieial
h+s/heFdesignee. See Seet'n., 15.04.015.
E nl III DIPIG CITE is any site propesed for the leGatinn of a manufaetidred he
b
within mobile heme paFks.
d. 41 In ' the Federal n tment of Housing and I IrbaR D`yelopm`..t
e. INSTALLER ED shall 'th be the Aviner ora State limn nd mnhilp home iert-.Ilnr
f nnAN IEACITI IDED HOME Fneans a struetuFe designed and built to eemply with the
Wn/ h' r State n r Ht of I aher @Rd !Rd urtry's rules and r uI;tin r for
the current adepted editien of the I146, SECTION 14202 nefinitin nnANUPnr_'riilz>:n1-10114€
g. MOBILE HQME is a t ertable f@Gter.,_h 'It dwell'n n't e RStruGtnd n _ e to 4Ano !9,
Stand-,rdr INMHGSSl Art of 1974)
appre,ed e red fe ndat'e 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; jPermanent Foundation
Requirementsl. The manufacturer or dealer shall send twe copies of its approved
installation recommendations to the purchaser of the manufactured home and - fie copies
shall be submitted with the building permit application.
c. No person, firm, partnership, corporation, or other entity may install a manufactured home
unless 4,-/sZhe owns the manufactured home, or is a licensed manufactured home installer.
14
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update
October 28, 2020
d. All manufactured home installations shall comply with the requirements of the IRC Seetien
�R403.1.7.37 jFoundation Elevationl7 and with the following:
i_On graded sites, the top of any exterior foundation shall extend above the elevation of -- Formatted: Indent: Lett: 0.88" —�
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.
ii_The following provisions shall be made to prevent standing water under and around a
building or structure prior to the final inspection_
A. The finished grade and elevation under the building shall be above the ground Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
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.
B_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.
C_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.
e D.lf 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 Seetie4�,�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.
Vie. In those areas that are recognized as floodplains by the Washington State Department of
Ecology or the Department of Homeland Security, 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 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.
g-f_Manufactured homes in a floodplain must be installed per the applicable provisions of
Whatcom County Code, Title 17, Flood Damage Prevention, and per associated
requirements of the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
1}p_Used mobile homes older than 19767 require a fire/life safety inspection by the State
Department- of Labor & Industries prior to building permit submittal
15
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update
October 28, 2020
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 manufactured home building permit application and issuance regulations,
the following shall apply to manufactured home installations: �epar:ate applieatien ,;hall he.
Comment [CES7]: Already stated in (a).
a. A separate application shall be required for each manufactured home installation. The
application shall be made upon forms provided by the administFative Department
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. The plot plan shall show all existing &t. 4wfe,and proposed structures,
including decks and porches.
Vic. Construction plans and details for all proposed non-exempt landings, open decks, covered
decks, and stairs shall be provided with the application
Ed. Applications for manufactured homes:
shall be accompanied by twegpt ^ffoundation plans fora permanent 1 Comment[CESB]: Don'tneed this phrase, asall
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 A-ther than thege ; ebile home - . +The installer of the
manufactured/ mobile home shall request the following inspections:
i_-a-F#ooting inspection, after the placement of the footing forms and rebar 044d-but prior
to pouring concrete or placing the footings.
ii_7--a-Ttie-down, blocking, and vapor barrier inspection,
iii_ and a #Final inspection, after all aspects of the installation have been completed. -Fee
mebile home park installatiens, the installer shall FeqUeSt a fiRal iRspertien aftPF all
aspects ef the iRStallatien have been eampleted.
i-iv. 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.
16
manufactured homes would be installed in one of
these two places.
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
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.
7) 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
WCC 15.04.030(F)(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.
8) FOUNDATION SYSTEM FOOTINGS
a. Footings shall be constructed of solid concrete per the manufacturer's installation
specifications or an approved alternate method.
b. Foundations placed in flood zones or flood -plains shall be installed per WCC
15.04.030(F)(3)(e and f) and may require an engineers' review for the design. Lam" ' "
with thickened feetings, extendiRg 18 iRehes belew existing grade, 16 iRr-_hpq diRM(#PF
c. Footings shall be:
i. Evenly bedded and level;
ii. Placed on firm, undisturbed or compacted soil that is free of organic material;
4-iii_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 ^„F, t,,.^ , hnmp 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 so that 759/qe t 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
17
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
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 fourthree 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 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,aaA-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 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
18
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
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 specifications 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 Washington VIA -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:
L Engineered tie -down systems shall be per approved details from the Washington State
Department of Labor and Industries.
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 Washington WA sState licensed engineer may be required.
c. Ties shall be of approved 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:
19
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes
October 28, 2020
Length of home in feet
(excluding hitch)
Number of vertical ties per
detached corner of add-ons
Number of diagonal
ties
32-54
1
5
55 — 73
1
6
13) ASSEMBLY
The water pipe connection to the manufactured home shall have a main shutoff valve in
compliance with the 2$1;2 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code, 8ee-tie43,-§606. 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 such as awnings, carports,
garages, porches, or steps attached to or located next to a home, s eh as awninos, eaFparts,
^rGhes, er steps shall be constructed in conformance with applicable County
codes and structurally independent of the manufactured home unless pre -approved by the
manufacturer.
15.04.040 Amendments to the International Fire Code IFC .
A. e-e �102.27 JAdministrative, Operational and Maintenance Provisions),, 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 to be determined by the Whatcom County Fire Marshal, for all
Group A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R, S, and U occupancies. Only R-3 Occupancies containing the following
shall be subject to fire code inspections: adult family homes, family daycare homes, and adult
and child care facilities, as defined in Chapter 2 (Definitions) as amended by t _-Washington
State ^^mod .ewent
B. eetio°^^ �103.17 JGeneralj is amended to read as follows:
The Department of Fire Prevention, hereinafter referred to as the Fire Marshal's Office, is
established within the jurisdiction under the direction of the Fire Code Official, hereinafter
referred to as the Fire Marshal. The function of the deparRae Office shall be the
implementation, administration, and enforcement of the IFevisiens efthis code. Recognizing
the authority and responsibility vested in the Fire Marshal by the International Fire Code, the
Fire Marshal is authorized to promulgate such rules, policies, and/or procedures as lhe/s e.
deems necessary for the efficient operation of fire prevention and investigations.
C. &eGtie^^ �103.27 JAppointmentj7 is amended to read as follows:
The Fire Marshal is the Department- Director of Planning and Development Services, except that
a Fire Marshal and/or Deputy Fire Marshal may be appointed by the PepaFtmeRt Director. The
Fire Marshal/Deputy Fire Marshal shall be not less than a supervisor within the Building Services
Division of the Whatcom County Department of Planning & Development Services Dep aFt rte„t,
as designated by the Director. The Fire Marshal for Whatcom County is authorized to enforce
the provisions of this ordinance and adopted referenced codes and amendments.
D. Sec4ier 104.17 JGeneralL- is amended with the following additional paragraphs:
The provisions of RCW 18.160.070 and the Levels of Licensing required by the State Fire
Marshal's Office will be enforced by the Whatcom County Fire Marshal's Office as specified,
20
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
including but not limited to work performed by contractors and/or documentation verifying
compliance with current licensing requirements. Issuance of permits may be withheld due to
lack of compliance with these provisions.
It is the interpretation and determination of the Whatcom County Fire Marshal that the
"installation of underground work of any kind for any kind of structure" applies to the
installation of fire protection systems connected to or integral to a fire protection sprinkler
system. A Level U license from the State Fire Marshal's office shall be required. The Fire
Marshal, at his/her discretion, may require a Level U license for any underground work
determined at any stage of installation to be substantially and/or consistently substandard.
E. In Seetlerr�104.97 JAlternate Materials and Methodst the last sentence is amended as follows:
Where the alternative material, design or method of construction is not approved, the Fire
Marshal shall respond in writing, stating the reasons why the alternative was not approved,
when a determination request is submitted to the Fire Marshal in writing.
F. Sectie+�-�104.107 jFire 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.
G. Seetie43,-�104.10.17 JAssistance from Other Agenciesl- is amended with the following additional
language:
The Whatcom County Fire Marshal shall have the authority to render necessary assistance in the
investigation of fires. The Whatcom County Fire Marshal and designated, assigned staff members
shall have the powers of a limited authority of a Washington peace officer as defined in Chapter
10.93 RCW. They shall be commissioned by the Whatcom County Sheriff 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.
H. Sectie+�,-�105.7.17 (Automatic Fire -Extinguishing SystemsJ7 is amended with the addition of the
following language:
Commercial cooking arrays require permanently affixed signage that states: "Alteration of
commercial cooking arrays is prohibited without prior review and approval from the Whatcom
County Fire Marshal." Sign location to be determined by the Fire Marshal.
I. See#enr§105.7.98; JFlammable and Combustible Liquidsl- is amended as follows:
'ter
2)
3. To install, alter, remove, abandon, or otherwise dispose of a flammable or combustible liquid
tank. Abandoned underground fuel tanks are required to be removed according to all applicable
codes and safety standards except under special circumstances, such as steep or extreme
topography, significant physical obstructions, or similar circumstances, as approved per the
discretion and judgment of the Fire Marshal.
J. See4iera-�1095.17 jBoard of Appealsl- is amended to read as follows:
21
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
'^ order to hear and deei e appeal` of eFder 'Decisions or determinations made by the Fire
Marshal relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is h^r^h
�^e' shall be heard by the Whatcom County Board of Appeals.
PIA PQQ:� A24 shall hpthp PiFe Code Appeals BeaFd. The Appealq RA;;F[i shall bp the samp board
c^r all ender appeals, exeept as amended in WGG Chapter 1 5 nn
K. Sec -tie 2027 jGeneral Definitionsj7 is amended to add the following sentence: Words not defined
herein shall be as defined in WCC 15.04.12 (Definitions).~^^c' ag
a. FiFe Chief. I.A.1heRever the term FiFe Chief iq refereneed in this ende 4,;hall PAP-aR
amended per WGG 15.01.040.
L. Chapter 5 is amended to include adoption of all sections of the chapter not adopted by Washington
State Amendments, Chapter 51-54A WAC, as authorized per RCW 19.27.060(5).
M. Appendix B7 jFire Flow Requirements for BuildingsL is amended to read in its entirety as follows:
§6101 GENERAL
13101.1 Scope. The procedure for determining fire flow requirements for buildings or portions of
building hereafter constructed shall be in accordance with this appendix. This appendix does not
apply to structures other than buildings.
§B102 DEFINITIONS
B102.1 Definitions. Words shall be as defined in WCC 15.04.12 (Definitions).
§6103 MODIFICATIONS
Sect4e44-§B103.17 jDecreasesj.
The Fire Marshal is authorized to reduce the fire -flow requirements for isolated buildings or a
group of buildings in rural areas or small communities where the development of full fire -flow
requirements is impractical. This may include consideration of alternative materials and
methods where the Fire Marshal finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies
with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method, or work is at least
the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire -resistance,
durability, and safety.
B103.2 Increases. The Fire Code Official is authorized to increase the fore flow requirements
where conditions indicate an unusual susceptibility to group fires or conflagrations. An increase
shall be not more than twice that required for the building under construction.
B103.3 Areas without water supply systems. For information regarding water supplies for fire-
fighting purposes in rural and suburban areas in which adequate and reliable water supply
systems do not exist, the fire marshal is authorized to utilize NFPA 1142 or the International
Wildland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC).
22
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
SECTION B104 FIRE -FLOW CALCULATION AREA
�6104.17 JGeneralj, i ,,, ded as f llewg.
B104.1.1 The fire -flow calculation area shall be the total floor area of all floor levels within the
exterior walls, and under horizontal projections of the roof of a building (such as a connecting
breezeway), otherwise including only areas that are fully enclosed on all sides and which have a
full ceiling height. Full ceiling height means an average (50% or more) ceiling height of 6 (six)
feet-8 (eight) inches (203.3 cm), including under -floor areas that are accessed by a side -hinged
man door, sliding door, overhead door, or similar standard height access. The calculation area is
measured to the outside surface of exterior and/or enclosure walls.
B104.1.2 In general, commercial and industrial structures will be measured ae�eir�g teusina
the same methodetegy as for residential/accessory buildings, except that structures will also be
judged according to their use and corresponding hazard, according to the applicable codes in
the IFC and IBC, and according to the judgment and discretion of the Fire Marshal. As such area
may be calculated for roof only (open sided) structures, covered open/partially open portions of
buildings, to the outside edge of eaves, and/or for uncovered portions of structures (decks,
balconies, loading docks, etc.) on a case -by -case basis where, in the discretion of the Fire
Marshal, it is warranted to preserve the health, safety, and welfare of the public, building
occupants, and/or emergency responders.
B104.2 Area Separation. Portions of buildings that are separated by fire walls without openings,
constructed in accordance with the International Building Code, are allowed to be considered as
separate fire -flow calculation areas.
B104.3 Type IA and Type IB Construction. The fire -flow calculation area of buildings constructed of
Type IA and Type IB construction shall be the area of the three largest successive floors.
Exception: Fire -flow calculation area for open parking garages shall be determined by the area
of the largest floor.
SECTION B105 FIRE -FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS
§13105.1, (One- and Two -Family Dwellingsl.
B105.1.1 The minimum fire flow and flow duration requirements for one- and two-family dwellings
having a fire -flow calculation area_, —including both existing and new proposed building area J that
measures in excess of 4,000 square feet (371.6 mZ) shall be 500 GPM @ 20 psi for 1 hour. For a f€ire
hydrant to qualify for fire -flow it shall be located with 600 feet along an accessible route measured
to the center of the structure.
B105.1.2 An NFPA 13D automatic sprinkler system throughout the measured fire area of a residence
and/or residential accessory building qualifies as 100% reduction/mitigation in fire flow when the
requirement threshold is exceeded.
B105.1.3 An NFPA 13-D automatic sprinkler system is required throughout all dwellings with a
measured fire area exceeding 8,000 square feet. In addition, fire -flow for dwellings with a fire -flow
calculation area exceeding 8,000 square feet (743.2 M2), shall not be less than that specified in Table
23
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update
October 28, 2020
B105.1, as amended by Whatcom County, except that the flow duration may be a minimum of one
hour.
LExceptionl: For Single Family Residences where the addition of an attached garage results in a
Added exception to allow one
z
total building area exceeding 8,000 square feet (743.2m ), where a fire flow system consisting of
�Comment[CM9]:
opening in fire rated assembly for a single family
residents
a water storage tank fire pump, and a hydrant would be required, all of the following shall be
installed to relieve the fire flow requirements. If the total building area is over 10,000 sf (929m)
this exception does not apply.
i. Full two --hour fire rated construction that separates the garage from the house. The fire
wall shall be designed per IBC §706, except that there shall only be one opening allowed in
the fire --rated construction between the house and garage. The maximum size of the
opening shall accommodate one 3'-0" x 6'-8" man door. The man door shall be two—hour
fire rated assembly and have an automatic closing devise. No other openings are allowed in
the fire --rated construction between the garage and house.
ii. An NFPA 13D automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the house and
attached garage (entire structure).
iii. The water storage for the sprinkler system shall be designed to twice the calculated
required amount.
a. Table 13 05 , r, t : Rat .,d,,, ted
Sectie+:i,-§B105.2T jBuildings other than One- and Two -Family Dwellings],'° amended as F^II^,•,g:
n�rnnuT ,.innlc.
Comment [CE510]: Definitions moved to
15.04.012
(li3G Appendix C, GFoup 9 AgricultuFal Buildings)
preteaien shelters; sheds; gFain silos; stables.
frezen, dried in their etheFwise unalteFed, state fer shipping te
cooled, eF and packaged primary
buildings, based the typieal ef (even if seasonal), type e
thaR agrieultural E)R RumbeF peFSGRRel
regulations will be applied in the review precess of these buildiRgs/faGilities.
24
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update
October 28, 2020
B105.2.1 The minimum fire -flow and flow duration requirements for private garages, detached
shops, agricultural storage buildings (Group U occupancy) shall be 500 GPM @ 20 psi for 1 hour.
Exception: Fire -flow is not required if the structure meets one of the following criteria:
1. It does not exceed 2,500 square feet (232.3 m2).
2. It is protected by an approved automatic fire sprinkler system.
3. It has, at a minimum, 60 _foot setbacks to -from all property lines, and other structures on
the same lot. Setback measurement may include the full width of an adjacent public way,
no -build easement recorded with the Auditor to run concurrent with the deed, or similar
instrument or provision acceptable to the Fire Marshal.
4. It has, at a minimum, 100 _foot setbacks to all property lines and other structures on the
same lot for buildings which include hay storage, other combustible fibers, the potential for
loose combustible fibers, and/or the potential for combustible dust (IFC Sections 2204 and
3704.1; NFPA 61). Setback measurement may include the full width of an adjacent public
way, no -build easement recorded with the Auditor to run concurrent with the deed, or
similar instrument or provision acceptable to the Fire Marshal.
8105.2.2 The minimum fire -flow and flow duration requirements for agricultural processing
buildings not exceeding 6,000 square feet (557.4 mz) shall be 500 GPM @ 20 psi for 1 hour. If the
building exceeds 6,000 square feet (557.4 mz), Table B105.1, as amended by Whatcom County, shall
apply except that, at the discretion of the Fire Marshal, where adequate and reliable water supply
systems do not exist the duration may be reduced by up to 50%, but not to be reduced to below a
duration of 1 hour.
Exception: Fire -flow is not required if the structure meets one of the following criteria:
1. It does not exceed 2,500 square feet (232.3 M2), in measured fire area.
2. It has, at a minimum, 60 _foot setbacks to all property lines7 and other structures on the
same lot. Setback measurement may include the full width of an adjacent public way, no -
build easement recorded with the Auditor to run concurrent with the deed, or similar
instrument or provision acceptable to the Fire Marshal.
3. The building is provided with an NFPA 13 automatic sprinkler system throughout, including
water storage to support the sprinkler system per the system design, plus an additional 500
gpm of fire flow at 20 psi for a duration of one hour, to be available at an approved hydrant
or hydrants as determined by the Fire Marshal.
B105.2.3 The minimum fire- flow and flow duration requirements for buildings other than one- and
two-family dwellings and Group U buildings specified above; shall be as specified in Table B105.1, as
amended by Whatcom County, with the ability to apply fire -protection credits as described in Table
13105.2, but not to be reduced to below 500 GPM @ 20 psi for duration of 1 hour for Group F and S
occupancies, including accessory occupancies (per IBC 508.2); 1,500 GPM @ 20 psi for a duration of
1 hour for occupancies and/or mixed occupancies including Group B, E, I, M, and R occupancies
except where lower gpm is indicated per Table B105.1. Fire -flow reductions for Group H occupancies
may only be considered at the discretion of the Fire Marshal. Increases in fire flow may be required
based on the Fire Marshal's evaluation of operational hazard and/or occupancy group. Fire
protection credits shall not allow the elimination of required systems as required in other parts of
the Fire Code.
25
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update
October 28, 2020
Exception: Fire flow is not required if the structure meets all of the following criteria:
1. It does not exceed 2,500 square feet (232.3 M2).
2. It does not contain a hazardous operation, as determined by the Fire Marshal.
3. It is 44not a Group A occupancy.
TABLE B105.1. Fire -flow for Buildings Other than One- and Two -Family Dwellings and Private Garages
and Commercial Agricultural Buildings (Group U)
Construction Type -al
Required
Fire Flow
(GPM)
Duration
(Hours)
IA & IB
IIA & IIIA
IV & VA
IIB & 11113
VB
WHEN TOTAL FIRE AREA IN SQUARE FEETY)' IS EQUAL TO OR LESS
THAN THESE VALUES
5,500
3,700
2,600
2,100
1,600
500
1
11,100
6,800
4,700
3,500
2,400
750
1
15,900
9,300
6,200
4,500
2,900
1,000
1
22,700
12,700
8,200
5,900
3,600
1,250
1
30,200
17,000
10,900
7,900
4,800
1,500
1
38,700
21,800
12,900
9,800
6,200
1,750
1.5
48,300
24,200
17,400
12,600
7,700
2,000
1.5
59,900
33,200
21,300
15,400
9,400
2,250
1.5
70,900
39,700
25,500
18,400
11,300
2,500
2
83,700
47,100
30,100
21,800
13,400
2,750
2
97,700
54,900
35,200
25,900
15,600
3,000
2
112,700
63,400
40,600
29,300
18,000
3,250
3
128,700
72,400
46,400
33,500
20,600
3,500
3
145,900
82,100
52,500
37,900
23,300
3,750
3
164,200
92,400
59,100
42,700
26,300
4,000
4
184,400
103,100
66,000
47,700
29,300
4,250
4
203,700
114,600
73,300
53,000
32,600
4,500
4
225,200
126,700
81,100
58,600
36,000
4,750
4
247,700
139,400
89,200
65,400
39,600
5,000
4
271,200
152,600
97,700
70,600
43,400
5,250
4
295,900
166,500
106,500
77,000
47,400
5,500
4
GREATER
GREATER
115,800
83,700
51,500
5,750
4
125,500
90,600
55,700
6,000
4
135,500
97,900
60,200
6,250
4
145,800
106,800
64,800
6,500
4
26
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes U
October 28, 2020
Construction Type (a)
Required
Fire Flow
(GPM)
Duration
(Hours)
IA & IB
IIA & IIIA
IV & VA
IIB & IIIB
VB
156,700
113,200
69,600
6,750
4
167,900
121,300
74,600
7,000
4
179,400
129,600
79,800
7,250
4
191,400
138,300
85,100
7,500
4
GREATER
GREATER
GREATER
7,750
4
Footnotes:
(a) Types of construction are based upon the current adopted edition of the IBC.
(b) Each portion of a building shall be considered as a separate fire area when separated by one or
more fire walls built in accordance with the IBC.
TABLE B105.2. Fire Protection Credit for Commercial Rural Fire -Flow
Options to Reduce Fire-Flow-W
% Reduction!b�
NFPA Monitored Fire Alarm
25%
NFPA 13 Automatic Sprinkler System
75%
40' Minimum Setbacks-N
25%
Footnotes:
(a) Credits used for or with substantial alterations shall be applied to the entire structure.
(b) Reductions will be simply rounded to the closest fire flow rate and applied for the duration
prescribed by that flow rate. In cases of an equal distance between two rates, the rate will
be rounded down.
Setbacks apply to all property lines and buildings, on all sides of the structure. Setback
measurement may include the full width of an adjacent public way, no -build easement
recorded with the Auditor to run concurrent with the deed, or similar instrument or
provision acceptable to the Fire Marshal.
(�(d) Fire -flow rates shall not be reduced less than the minimums as required in Section
B 105.2.
§13105.3 Water supply for buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system.
B105 3.1 For buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system, the water supply shall be
capable of providing the greater of:
1. The automatic sprinkler system demand, including hose allowance.
2. The required fire -flow.
SECTION B106 REFERENCED STANDARDS.
ICC; IBC-18 International Building Code B104.2
ICC; ICF-18 International Fire Code As amended Tables B105.1 and B105.2
ICC IWUIC-18 International Wildland-Urban interface Code, Table B105.1(1)
27
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
NFPA 1142-12 Standards on Water Supplies for Suburban and Rural Fire Fighting, B103.3 or most
current version.
N. Appendix C; jFire Hydrant Locations and Distributionsl- is amended with the following added
section:
�C1067jSubdivision Alternativel, is added to the Appendix:
C106.1 Hydrant placement alternative. Subdivisions and plats with no fire flow
infrastructure require a minimum lot size of 1 {er-4acre and a minimum 20_ 4went4foot
setback from property lines to structures, in addition to applicable fire flow requirements
per Appendix B as amended. A no -build easement recorded with the Auditor to run
concurrent will be required to reduce the property setbacks.
O. Appendix D; Fire Apparatus Access Roadsl; is amended as follows:
�D103; jMinimum Specificationsl; is amended with the following additienal language2_s follows:
D103.2 Grade per Exhibit A and `" CDSWhatcom County Development Standards, Chapter 5;
jRoad Standardsl. In addition to standard access road requirements, Rresidential and residential
accessory structures accessed by roads or driveways exceeding 12% grade require mitigation
such as an automatic sprinkler system; per NFPA 13-D; throughout the applicable building(s); an
approved fire flow system; or equivalent mitigation approved at the discretion of the Fire
Marshal en addit;en te standard access read Fequirements.
D103.3 Turning radius — Minimum thiFty five feat (354-foot radii. Residential private roads and
driveways per Exhibit DWhatcom County Development Standards, Chapter 5.
�1)103.5; jFire Apparatus and Access Road Gatesl; is amended as follows:
Gates installed across emergency apparatus access roads and driveways require a permit from
the Fire Marshal's office and shall comply with all the following criteria:.
ltn..,
1. Where a single gate is provided, the net openable gate width shall be not less than 20
feet (6,096 mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists of a divided roadway (one
separate lane in each direction) or the current required width of the apparatus access
road is a minimum of 12 feet (3,658 mm), the net openable gate width shall be not less
than 12 feet (3,658 mm) at each lane or road. The net openable width of the gate shall
be not be less than the applicable required drivable surface width of any access road or
driveway.
9. At the Fire Marshal's determination, applications for gates proposed to be installed
across private access easements, roads, and driveways, which are shared by multiple
property owners/users, may be required to include written, notarized, confirmation
€rern-that all property owners/users approve ofiRg the gate installation.
28
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
10. Gate installations where multiple properties are accessed shall include an approved
universal optical sensor k-safety access system that will allow access by all
emergency responders.
11. Where deemed appropriate, the Fire Marshal may require language addressing
maintenance responsibilities and/or incorporation of maintenance language and other
relevant information regarding any gate to be recorded with the County Auditor
separately or as part of the access easement(s) description.
Add §D103.7 Turnarounds— For all projects other than residential or residential accessory,
turnarounds shall be a minimum tw^ (20+-foot wide drivable surface, and legs Sixty fee
(604 feet long per WCDS, Chapter 57,(Road Standardsl. Where options are limited by topography
or at the discretion of the Fire Marshal for other considerations, turnarounds for residential or
residential accessory structure access may be a minimum twenty feet (204-foot wide drivable
surface and turnaround legs fortfeet (45'j feet long. Turnarounds shall be located within
150 feet of a structure that requires access but no closer than 50 feet unless otherwise
approved by the Fire Marshal where topographic or other significant obstacles exist. S^�hibit
Add §D103.8 Bridges — Bridges, box culverts, or similar passageway structures built over
depressions or obstacles shall be hereinafter referred to as bridges. When a bridge is required to
be used as part of a driveway access road, it shall be designed and constructed per the current
adopted edition of the WCDS, Chapter 57 jRoad Standardsl §513; ,(Bridges and Associated
Retaining Wallsj and per applicable portions of IFC �503. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at
both entrances to bridges when required by the Fire Marshal.
Add §D103.9 Installation of residential accessory buildings less than 2,500 square feet, small
residential/ accessory additions, and similar minor changes or alterations may be exempt or may
not trigger road standard improvements on a case —by —case basis, at the discretion of the Fire
Marshal.
Add §D103.10 Surface — Per Whatcom County Development Standards (WCDS), Chapter 5;
(Road Standards,. nn gtandRFd . . Exhibit r DFiv .way SeGtiqn.
Add §D103.11 Vertical clearance — Minimum thirteeR feet six inch (13 feet!-6 inches
unobstructed vertical clearance for the required width of the road. See F"�rcxhib rrribit A" + A.
Add §D103.12 Fire apparatus access roads serving up to 2 {tw4residential lots, where building
location is less than 9He hundred fifty feet (150!4 feet from approved access roads require a
minimum width of 12 feet (3658 mm) and a minimum vertical clearance of 13 feet-6 inches
(4,115 mm).
Add §D103.13 Fire apparatus roads over 9Re hupdFed fifty feet (1504 feet long serving up to
two residential lots:
29
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
§D103.13.1 Minimum width Twelve feet (12+ oot driving surface with turnouts no farther
than every six huRdred feet (6004 feet when required by the Fire Marshal. To create a
turnout, the road shall be widened to +••��oe,ty feet (204 feet in the direction of travel for a
minimum distance of ene h RdFed feet 11004 feet to allow vehicles to pull over arad-to allow
emergency vehicles to proceed. Turnout shall be located approximately midpoint for
driveways over six huRdFed feet (600) feet but less than tIN e. ^ " ^ ' ^ f^^+ 41,2004 feet.
Add §D103.14 Fire apparatus access roads and, access serving more than two residential units,
shall meet the following:
1. Standards per E •"'"'+ ^ and ^ rfent adopted Whatcom County Development Standards
(WCDS), Chapter 5; jRoad Standardsj.
2. The Fire Marshal may make modifications in these standards if the road is not buildable
because of topography, waterways, nonnegotiable grades, or similar conditions. These
modificationsaFe shall be based on:
a. The building being protected by a minimum NFPA 13D Automatic Sprinkler System.
b. Additional fire protection features as required by the Fire Marshal.
3. When, in the opinion of the Fire Marshal, a residential addition or a new detached accessory
building will not create a more significant fire load or hazardous situation, exceptions may
be made for:
a. Minor additions to existing dwellings not exceeding 1,.248 square feet of net measurable
fire area where the total measurable fire area of the contiguous building (new and
existing) does not exceed 4,000 square feet.
b. One, small, detached accessory building not exceeding 864 square feet in measurable
fire area or where the aggregate measurable fire area of all detached accessory
buildings on a site does not exceed 864 square feet.
Add §D103.15 d-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.
Add §D103 16 Private roads and driveways shall meet Whatcom County Development Standards and
Drawings Chapter 5 (Roads & Related Work).
e. -See EXhibits A, 9, (;, and P, feF additienal iRfermatieH, details, and amending Appendix P.-
This seetien applies te reads/streets that are pFivately GWRed, generally within an easement providing
er arterial reads/streets. PFivate Feads/streets are MaiRt@ined with pFivate funds and AghpFP thp C-01-IRtY7
Criteria feF AwtheFizatian� PFivate reads/stFeets may be permitted when se pFevided iR appropriate
.J' Ar at the el's Fet'.. of the Ge ^t„ Engi.. .,h^.,•
30
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
Dno.! looro(2j
nrr ontal
Grade, %
Surfaurrr
Featme
�reatrneaE
Width,}-tt
lnnebs Vert Gal
{1QIRi �(e, ft i
6learaase fE
�Ain'mum TuFn n Dnrl.I #
n
See
�n
�2RdaFdS
Dra��")
i�ride
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4-4
G&$6N3
A
i-1i
2-5
40
505...E 6
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R)
15---19
Heated
Qf69Ved
-4-2
45�
43:5
25m
49M
58J:E I;
12 14
P-ave494
45 48
Ideated
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Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update
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15.04.050 Permit Expirations and Violations of the Above -Referenced Codes.
A. Expiration.
1. IBC Seetie s 105.5 of the 16(;, and IRC R105.5 of the IRG .,a Inc 3 4 of the IFC are amended
to read as follows:
Every permit issued under the provisions of this code, according to IBC Sec en-§105.5 and
IRC 5ec-tie4�-§13105.5, 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 than 180 days each. The extension
shall be requested in writing and justifiable causes demonstrated. In the event of permit
expiration, before such work can recommence, a new permit shall be first obtained to do so,
and the fee therefor 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. These permits are only transferable with the prior approval of
the Building Official and any change in occupancy, operation, tenancy, or ownership shall
require that a new permit be issued.
2. IFC §105.3.1 is amended to read as follows:
34
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
Every permit issued under the provisions of this code, according to IFC SeetkN4-? 105, 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 fire code official (designated as the fire marshal) is authorized to grant, in
writing, one or more extensions of time for a period not more than 180 days each, except
that expiration and extension shall not apply to open burning permits. The extension shall
be requested in writing and justifiable causes demonstrated. In the event of permit
expiration, before such work can recommence, a new permit shall be first obtained to do so,
and the fee therefor 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 paragraphs shall be added to IBC Sect+eri 114.1, IRC Sec-�R113.1, and IFC
Secliea-§1105.1:
When construction and/or development 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, the Fire Code Official, or any administrator who has been granted authority
by the Director 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.
When construction, development, modification, or any changes to a structure have taken
place without a valid permit as required by this chapter, the County may, at its discretion
and as it deems necessary for compliance, require the structure to be restored to its original
construction/condition. This may include, but is not limited to, complete or partial
demolition of the structure or remodel; removal of framed walls or other structural
components; electrical systems and/or components; cabinets, doors, countertops, fixtures,
35
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
drywall; plumbing and/or plumbing fixtures; applicable appliances. Time lines required to
restore the structure to its original condition shall be at the discretion of the County.
C. Stop Work Orders.
1. IBC &eGtiG��115 of t"�1Q'" IRC §R114 of the IRG, and IFC §1124 Af the 14; are amended to
read as follows:
In the event any person, firm, partnership, corporation or other entity violates any provision
of this ordinance or any code adopted by this ordinance, the County may issue a notice of
violation, to be delivered to the owner, operator, or their agent, or to be conspicuously
posted at the site. In a non -emergency situation, such notice may include notice of the
intent to issue a stop work order no less than 10 calendar days following the receipt of the
notice, and provide for an administrative pre -deprivation hearing within 10 calendar days of
notice/order. In an emergency situation where there is a significant threat to public safety
or the environment, the County may issue a stop work order. The stop work order shall
include, in writing, the right to request an administrative post -deprivation hearing within 72
hours following receipt of the stop work order. Failure to comply with the stop work order
shall be a gross misdemeanor punishable upon conviction by a minimum fine of $500.00 up
to a maximum fine of $1,000-.00 or one year in jail, or both. Under no circumstance may the
court defer or suspend any portion of the minimum $500�0 fine for any conviction under
this section. Each day or part thereof of noncompliance with said order to stop work shall
constitute a separate offense.
D. Violation Deemed Misdemeanor.
1. IBC `^^aim,^^^� �114 of the49CZ, IRC §R113 of the lRC, and IFC §1109 of *"o � e IPC are amended to
read as follows:
Except as specified below, aAny 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, directives or conditions 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 $1,000-.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.
EXCEPTION: TT^ Violations of intemat enal `iFe CE)deIFC ee4a^ §307 JOpen Burning and
Recreational Firesl 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 $1,000-.G0 or
36
Exhibit A: 2018 Building Codes Update October 28, 2020
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. IFC See#ee-�1108.3 of the+FC—is amended to read as follows:
When the Fire Code Official, referred to as the Fire Marshal, 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. When immediate compliance is not possible, a time shall be specified for re
inspection. In special situations citations could be issued to individuals violating this code.
F. Civil Penalty.
1. Any person, firm, partnership, corporation or other entity 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 this section shall be imposed by a notice in writing and delivered by personal service
to the owner, the owner's agent, the operator and/or violator, and/or sent by certified mail,
and/or be conspicuously posted at the site. 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. The notice may
simultaneously accompany a notice of penalty.
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.
3_The final decision of the Building Official, firp P.Adp AfficialFire Marshal, 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.
�4iA fee as established in the Unified Fee Schedule shall be paid to the County Council office uaon
filine of such an appeal. This fee shall not apply to appeals initiated by a County department. If
.a i a Rant reyails in �n a eal of final decisions of the Building Official Fire_Code Official. or
the Director of Plannine and Development Services, on mitigation or revision of the penalty to
the County Councl,_the ._ao ellant's appeal fees shall be refunded.:.
-3-.5. 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.
37