Building Connections Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections

Building Connections

Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections news and events

Revised Policy on Covered Private Balconies

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Many new Seattle residential buildings include private balconies for each unit.  Although they may be outside of the building envelope, where these balconies are covered by a roof or by the floor of the balcony above, they are considered floor area, and must comply with fire-resistance and separation requirements in the Seattle Building Code. To help architects and others, SDCI has recently released two Code Interpretations on this topic.

Revised Rat Abatement Forms

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We revised the rat abatement forms required for getting demolition permits. Under the new process, applicants will file a declaration with their permit application affirming they understand the rat abatement requirement. There will be no hold on issuance of the demolition permit. At the first ground disturbance inspection, prior to the start of demolition, the applicant or contractor will provide a certification from a pest control company. The certification will confirm the date the rat abatement program started and confirm that the abatement program will continue until demolition actually starts.

Reminder for Geotechnical Special Inspectors! New Process for Submitting Geotechnical Field Reports

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We have transitioned to a new process for sending in geotechnical field reports and final letters.  You will need to create an account to access your organization’s projects using the Seattle Services Portal. There should be one account per organization/firm that you use to upload field reports and final letters. This account should be separate from an individual account that you might use to apply for a permit.

Seeking Volunteers for Construction Codes Advisory Board

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Seattle’s Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) is seeking volunteers to fill board openings for an electrical contractor, general contractor, commercial building owner or operator, and a developer and/or contractor on residential projects. Board members help the City evaluate construction codes to ensure that Seattle buildings stay safe, accessible, and sustainable. The deadline for submitting applications is March 11, 2019.

Reminder: Are YOU Prepared for Landslides?

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Landslide season is upon us, so the City of Seattle is urging residents to take preventive measures to protect themselves and their property from possible landslides. Most landslides are caused by water (e.g. rainfall, uncontrolled stormwater) or human activity that increases the weight at the top of the slope or reduces the stability at the bottom of the slope.

Protect Your Property from Winter Weather

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Rain on top of melting snow can create added weight to hillsides and flat rooftops. As snow begins to melt, it’s important to ensure rooftop drains and downspouts are functioning and clear of ice or other obstructions. A few simple steps can prevent damage to flat roof buildings and reduce the risk of landslides.

Proposed Electric Vehicle Readiness Rules Available for Public Review

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We’d like your feedback on draft legislation that would require new development in Seattle to provide electric vehicle (“EV”) charging infrastructure. Specifically, the amendments to the Land Use Code (Title 23) would require that a certain amount of off-street parking spaces include the wiring and electrical (power) outlets necessary to be considered “EV ready”, to make it easier for someone to install charging equipment/stations there in the future. The legislation is available for public review and comment through December 20, 2018.

Online Open House: Bus Layover Facilities

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The City of Seattle is updating the Land Use Code to allow for Bus Hub facilities and Metro is identifying locations in north downtown to build them. The first “bus hub” will be located on Eastlake Ave E. This surface facility will accommodate approximately 12 buses and provide a comfort station and an operations office for operators. Please visit the online open house, which will be open to the public on Wednesday, January 17 through January 31. There, you can give feedback on land use changes and the design features of the Eastlake hub.