AWC proposes changes to the Wildland Urban Interface Code

On September 15, 2023, the State Building Code Council (SBCC) agreed to further delay the effective date of the 2021 state building codes, including the 2021 Washington Wildland-Urban Interface Code (WWUIC). The new effective date for all 2021 state building codes is March 15, 2024.

AWC has been working with a group of cities to encourage the SBCC to take this opportunity to improve the implementation of the WWUIC.

We are focused on three main issues:

1. The maps generated by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to be used by cities in applying the WWUIC are at too large of a scale to be usable for regulation in incorporated areas and do not accurately reflect existing natural and man-made features. Put simply, the maps are generating very questionable results in some communities.
2. The application of these standards to minor construction projects that do not increase the size of any structure. A building permit for a new roof could trigger substantial new material requirements and defensible space requirements.
3. Those defensible space requirements have conflicts with other state requirements, such as shorelines, stormwater, and critical areas, and need local authority to deviate when appropriate.

AWC has made formal proposals for amendments to the code that the SBCC will consider at their November 17 meeting. The proposals request the following changes:

1. Remove the utilization of the DNR maps and go back to an earlier version of the code where local legislative bodies must establish their own WUI areas.
2. Exempt all projects that do not expand structural coverage on site from the special building construction regulations and defensible space requirements.
3. Provide for authority for local code officials to exempt buildings or structures from defensible space requirements when served by appropriate water supply.

We believe that these changes would make the codes more implementable and still protect public safety. Please contact the SBCC and express your support for these amendments.