Building Connections Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections

Building Connections

Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections news and events

Public Hearing for Proposed Electric Vehicle Readiness Rules

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On April 16, the City Council’s Sustainability & Transportation Committee will hold a public hearing to take comments on proposed legislation to add new requirements for electric vehicle charging infrastructure in new off-street parking spaces. The hearing will be held at 2:00 p.m. in the Seattle City Council Chambers at City Hall, on the 2nd floor at 600 4th Avenue. 

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.

Seeking Volunteers for Construction Codes Advisory Board

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As Seattle evolves, its building codes require constant review for effectiveness. The City of Seattle’s Construction Codes Advisory Board reviews new editions of construction codes, code changes, and Director’s Rules and provides advisory recommendations to our building official and Seattle City Council about whether to adopt them. Board members also review building official decisions and provide advisory opinions as requested. 

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.