The Seattle construction codes are being updated to the 2021 code editions and include the building, residential, existing building, energy, mechanical, plumbing, fuel gas, wildland urban interface, and fire codes. The Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code is also being updated to the 2023 edition.
The City of Seattle adopts the Seattle construction codes after Washington state adopts the state construction codes. The Washington state 2021 Construction Codes effective date is currently March 15, 2024. The target implementation date for the 2021 Seattle Construction Codes is delayed to no sooner than July 1, 2024, as we continue our City ordinance process. The 2021 draft Seattle Amendments can be found on the 2021 Seattle Code Adoption webpage.
SDCI will accept applications designed to the 2021 Washington Codes with draft 2021 Seattle amendments when they are accompanied by a code modification request. Between March 15, 2024, and the Seattle Codes effective date, applicants may use either the 2018 or 2021 Seattle Codes without a code modification request.
If you have questions on using the 2021 code for your project or if there are specific provisions within the 2021 code that you would like to request to use on your project designed to the 2018 codes, please schedule a construction pre-submittal conference.