Buildings 10,000 square feet or greater (including multifamily buildings of five or more units) now have until at least October 1, 2012 to comply with Seattle’s energy benchmarking and reporting program. In response to public input that more assistance and time is needed to comply, the City is evaluating the program and considering staggered reporting deadlines based on building size.
Public Hearing on 2009 State Energy Code
After deciding on June 11, 2010 to delay the effective date of the 2009 Washington State Energy Code (WSEC), the Washington State Building Code Council (WSBCC) met again on June 30, 2010 and endorsed January 1, 2011 as a preferred effective date.
Legalizing Backyard Cottages
The City of Seattle wants to remind homeowners of the grace period through June 30 for legalizing existing unauthorized backyard cottages. Under new regulations that went into effect December 4, 2009, backyard cottages became legal throughout Seattle. Previously, backyard cottages, also known as detached accessory dwelling units or DADUs, had been allowed only in southeast Seattle neighborhoods since 2006. Included in the December legislation is a grace period that allows owners of existing, unauthorized backyard cottages the opportunity to legalize their unit without penalty. Owners have until June 30, 2010 to apply for a building permit and until December 31, 2010 to obtain final inspection of the unit.
Legalizing Backyard Cottages
The City of Seattle wants to remind homeowners of the grace period through June 30 for legalizing existing unauthorized backyard cottages. Under new regulations that went into effect December 4, 2009, backyard cottages became legal throughout Seattle. Previously, backyard cottages, also known as detached accessory dwelling units or DADUs, had been allowed only in southeast Seattle neighborhoods since 2006. Included in the December legislation is a grace period that allows owners of existing, unauthorized backyard cottages the opportunity to legalize their unit without penalty. Owners have until June 30, 2010 to apply for a building permit and until December 31, 2010 to obtain final inspection of the unit.
