ORD 24-980 - Adopting State Mandated Building & Construction CodesORDINANCE NO.24-980
AN ORDINANCE of the City of Federal Way, Washington, relating to
the adoption of the 2021 Washington State Building Code and related
matters; amending FWRC 13.16.020, 13.16.030, 13.20.050, 13.20.090,
13.22.020, 13.22.030, 13.26.020, 13.26.030, 13.28.020, 13.28.030,
13.31.020, 13.31.030, 13.34.020, 13.34.030, 13.38.020, 13.41.020,
13.43.020, 13.43.030, and adding Chapter 13.47 FWRC, including
sections, 13.47.010, 13.47.020, and 13.47.030 (Amending Ordinance Nos.
01-389, 04-465, 07-563, 09-595, 10-665, 13-743, 15-793, 17-830 and 21-
910).
WHEREAS, the Revised Code of Washington ("RCW") mandates enforcement and provides
authority to the City of Federal Way Washington to administer and enforce the Washington State
Building Code Act (Chapter 19.27 RCW), the Washington State Energy Code (Chapter 19.27A
RCW), Washington State regulations regarding electricians and electrical installations (Chapter
19.28 RCW), Washington State regulations regarding installation and permitting of factory
assembled structures (Chapters 43.22 and 43.22A RCW), the Growth Management Act as it applies
to the construction of buildings (Chapter 36.70A RCW), and related matters within the incorporated
boundaries of the City of Federal Way, Washington; and
WHEREAS, these Washington State laws include amendments as adopted and included by
the State of Washington; and
WHEREAS, certain amendments, appendices, and other regulations are optional, and where
applicable, are enforceable if adopted specifically by the City of Federal Way.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FEDERAL WAY,
WASHINGTON, DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. FWRC 13.16.020 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page I of 20
13.16.020 201521 International Building Code adopted.
The 204-821 Edition of the International Building Code (IBC), including the following appendix
chapters:
(1) Appendix E, published by the International Code Council (ICC), is hereby adopted by reference
pursuant to Chapter 19.27 RCW and Chapter 51-50 WAC. The International Building Code
requirements for barrier -free accessibility, Chapter 11, and other IBC requirements for barrier -free
access, including ICC Al 17.1-200917 and Appendix E, are adopted pursuant to Chapters 19.27 and
70.92 RCW and shall not be amended by local government.
(2) Appendix J of the IBC published by the International Code Council (ICC) is hereby adopted by
reference.
Section 2. FWRC 13.16.030 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.16.030 201821 International Building Code amendments.
The International Building Code, adopted by reference in FWRC 13.16.020, is amended as follows:
(1) IBC Section 101.1, Title, is hereby amended as follows:
These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of City of Federal Way, hereinafter
referred to as "this code."
(2) IBC Section 101.4.3, Plumbing, is hereby amended as follows:
The provisions of the 204-921 Edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code shall apply to the
installation, alteration, repair and replacement of plumbing systems, including equipment,
appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, and where connected to a water or sewage
system and all aspects of a medical gas system. Private Sewage Disposal systems shall be
approved by King County Department of Health.
(3) IBC Section 101.4.6, Energy, is hereby amended as follows:
The provisions of the International Energy Conservation Code, including WAC 51-11R and
WAC 51-11C, shall apply to all matters governing the design and construction of buildings for
energy efficiency.
(4) IBC Section 105.1.1, Annual permit, is hereby replaced with IBC Section 105.1.1, Work in
Critical Areas, to read as follows:
Permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be
done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 2 of 20
this jurisdiction. Permits shall be required for work proposed within critical areas. Work exempt
from permit (IBC Section 105.2) shall not apply to work proposed in critical areas.
(5) IBC Section 105.1.2, Annual permit records, is hereby deleted in its entirety.
(6) IBC Section 105.2, item 1, is hereby amended to read as follows:
One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar
uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 m2) and exterior wall height
shall not exceed 10 feet measured from the bottom plate to the top of wall.
(7) IBC Section 105.4.1, Amended Permit, is hereby created as follows:
When the size of the building is increased or the scope for which the permit was issued is
changed, an application to amend the building permit shall be required. Amended permit
documents including but not limited to revised plans, calculations, product information, energy
calculations, or other documents needed in order to clarify the intent and scope of the amended
application shall be submitted for plan review. Fees for the review of the amended permit
application shall be assessed and paid pursuant to the City of Federal Way fee resolution. When
the building official is satisfied that the proposed work included in the amended application
conforms to the requirements of this code and laws and ordinances applicable thereto, the
building official shall issue a permit therefore as soon as practicable.
(8) IBC Section 107.3, Examination of documents, is hereby amended as follows:
The building official shall examine or cause to be examined the accompanying submittal
documents and shall ascertain by such examinations whether the construction indicated and
described is in accordance with the requirements of this code and other pertinent laws or
ordinances. The building official may require third party review to insure compliance with this
code. The cost of such review shall be borne by the applicant in compliance with the city's fee
schedule.
(9) Chapter 2, Definitions, is hereby amended by the addition of the following definition:
SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT. Any repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition or
improvement of a building or structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the
assessed value of the structure before the improvement or repair is started. If the structure has
sustained substantial damage, any repairs are considered substantial improvement regardless of
the actual repair work performed. The term does not, however, include either:
1. Any project for improvement of a building required to correct existing health, sanitary or
safety code violations identified by the building official and that are the minimum necessary
to assure safe -living conditions.
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 3 of 20
2. Any alteration of a historic structure provided that the alteration will not preclude the
structure's continued designation as a historic structure.
(10) IBC Section 502.1. Address identification. is hereby amended as follows:
New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address
identification shall be le ible and Rlaced in a position that is visible from the street or road
fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their backgrounds
Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled
out. Each character shall be not less than 8 inches (203.2 mm) high with a minimum stroke width
of 112 inch (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be
provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by
means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument. pole
or other_ sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be
maintnined_
(110) IBC Appendix J is hereby amended to add a new Section J101.1.1, Local Regulations, as
follows:
In addition to the requirements of IBC appendix J, clearing and grading activities shall be
reviewed and regulated under the following FWRC regulations:
(a) FWRC Title 16 Surface and Stormwater Management; and,
(b) Chapter 19.120 FWRC, Clearing, Grading, and Tree and Vegetation Retention; and,
(c) Chapter 19.142 FWRC, Flood Damage Prevention.
In case of conflict, the most restrictive provision shall apply.
Section 3. FWRC 13.20.050 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.20.050 Fire detection and protection.
(-1-) A standby power generator set shall be provided on the premises in accordance with the 204 821
International Building Code, Section 403.4, and the 202023-National Electrical Code, as presently
constituted or as may be subsequently amended. The standby system shall have a capacity and rating
sufficient to supply all equipment required to be operational at the same- time, including but not
limited to emergency lighting, stair enclosures, elevator shaft pressurization, and elevators.
Section 4. FWRC 13.20.090 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.20.090 Construction inspection.
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 4 of 20
The following shall be required for buildings designed and constructed pursuant to this section:
(1) Structural observation provided by the engineer of record for structural frame elements;
(2) Special inspections as required in the 204921 International Building Code;
(3) All other inspections shall be in strict accordance with other applicable codes; and
(4) Structural observation documents stamped by the engineer of record and all special inspection
reports shall be submitted to the Federal Way building division prior to the issuance of a certificate
of occupancy.
Section 5. FWRC 13.22.020 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.22.020 201821 International Residential Code adopted.
The 204921 Edition of the International Residential Code (IRC) as published by the International
Code Council (ICC) is hereby adopted by reference pursuant to Chapter 19.27 RCW and Chapter 51-
51 WAC, with the following additions, deletions, and exceptions; provided, that Chapters 11 and 25
through 43 of this code are not adopted; that energy conservation construction is regulated by
Chapter 51-11R WAC; that plumbing is regulated by Chapter 51-56 WAC; that electrical
installations are regulated by Chapter 296-46B WAC or the National Electrical Code (NEC) as
published by the National Fire Protection Association, as adopted by the city of Federal Ways
Peels,
Spas and Hot Tubs, of the 2018 Edition ef the !R-C as pAlis
by the IGG is hereby adepted. The standards for liquefied petroleum gas installations shall be NFPA
58 (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code) and NFPA 54 (National Fuel Gas Code). All other fuel gas
installations shall be regulated by the International Mechanical Code (IMC) and International Fuel
Gas Code (IFGC); '
Section 6. FWRC 13.22.030 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.22.030 201821 International Residential Code amendments.
The International Residential Code, adopted by reference in FWRC 13.22.020, is amended as
follows:
(1) IRC 101.1, Title, is hereby amended to read as follows:
These provisions shall be known as the Residential Code for One- and Two-family
Dwellings of The City of Federal Way, and shall be cited as such and will be referred to
herein as "this code."
(2) IRC Section 105.1.1, Annual permit, is hereby replaced with IBC Section 105.1.1, Work in
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 5 of 20
Critical Areas, to read as follows:
Permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work
to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or
ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall be required for work proposed within
critical areas. Work exempt from permit (IBC Section 105.2) shall not apply to work
proposed in critical areas.
(3) IRC 105.3.1, Action on application, is hereby amended by the addition of the following
language:
The building official shall examine or cause to be examined applications for permits and
amendments thereto within a reasonable time after filing. If the application or the
construction documents do not conform to the requirements of pertinent laws, the
building official shall reject such application in writing stating the reasons therefore.
When the building official is satisfied that the proposed work conforms to the
requirements of this code and laws and ordinances applicable thereto, the building
official shall issue a permit therefore as soon as practicable. The building official may
require third party review to insure compliance with this code. The cost of such review
shall be borne by the applicant in compliance with the city's fee schedule.
(4) IRC 105.4.1, Amended Permit, is hereby created as follows:
When the size of the building is increased or the- scope for which the permit was issued is
changed, an application to amend the building permit shall be required. Amended permit
documents including but not limited to revised plans, calculations, product information,
energy calculations, or other documents needed in order to clarify the intent and scope of
the amended application shall be submitted for plan review. Fees for the review of the
amended permit application shall be assessed and paid pursuant to the City of Federal
Way fee resolution. When the building official is satisfied that the proposed work
included in the amended application conforms to the requirements of this code and laws
and ordinances applicable thereto, the building official shall issue a permit therefore as
soon as practicable.
(5) R106.3.1, Approval of construction documents, is hereby amended to read as follows:
When the building official issues a permit, the construction documents shall be approved
in writing or by a stamp. One set of construction documents so reviewed and stamped
Approved File Copy, shall be retained by the building official. The other set, stamped
Approved Site Copy, shall be returned to the applicant, shall be kept at the site of work at
all times and shall be open to inspection by the building official or his or her authorized
representative. Failure to produce the Site Copy of the plans at time of inspection may
result in a failed inspection.
(6) IRC Table 3 01.2(1) is amended by the addition of the following information:
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 6 of 20
Roof Snow
Load
Wind Design
Seismic
Design
Category
Subject To Damage From
Winter
Design
Temp
Ice Layer
Underlay
Required
Flood
Hazard
Air
Freezing
Index
Mean
Annual
Temp
Speed
Topo
Weathering
Frost line
Termites
Mph
Effects
25lb/ft'
85
No
D2
Moderate
12"
Moderate
24
No
Yes
250
55
Section 7. FWRC 13.26.020 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.26.020 204$21 International Mechanical Code adopted.
The 204921 Edition of the International Mechanical Code (IMC) as published by the International
Code Conference (ICC) is hereby adopted by reference pursuant to Chapter 19.27 RCW and
Chapter 51-52 WAC.
In the case of conflict between the duct sealing or insulation requirements of Section 603 or 604 of
the IMC and the duct sealing or insulation requirements of Chapter 5 1 -11 C WAC, the Washington
State Energy Code, the provisions of the energy code shall govern.
Section 8. FWRC 13.26.030 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.26.030 20-1821 International Mechanical Code amendments.
The International Mechanical Code, adopted by reference in FWRC 13.26.020, is amended as
follows:
(1) IMC 101.1, Title, is hereby amended to read as follows:
These regulations shall be known as the Mechanical Code of the City of Federal Way,
hereinafter referred to as "this code."
(2) IMC 104.6, Notices and orders, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Notices and Orders shall be issued in compliance with FWRC 1.15.040.
(3) IMC 106.4.1.1, Amended Permit, is hereby created as follows:
When the scope of work for which the permit was issued is changed, the building official
may amend the mechanical permit. When such fees specified in IMC Section 106 or the
Federal Way Fee Schedule have been paid and when changes to the plans and application
have been approved, the building official shall issue an "amended permit," which
includes the approved changes as well as the original plans and specifications. The
issuance of such amended permit shall void the original permit.
(4) IMC 106.3.2, Preliminary inspection, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 7 of 20
Before a permit is issued, the building official is authorized to inspect and evaluate the
systems, equipment, buildings, devices, premises and spaces or areas to be used. The
building official may require third party review to ensure compliance with this code. The
cost of such review shall be borne by the applicant in compliance with the Federal Way
Fee Schedule.
(5) IMC 106.4.34, Expiration, is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such
permit is commenced within 180 days after issuance, or if the work authorized on the site
by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the
work is commenced. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more
extensions of time, for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be
requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. In order to renew action on a
permit after expiration, the permittee shall pay a new full permit fee.
(6) IMC 106.5.2, Fee schedule, is hereby amended to read as follows:
The fees for mechanical permits shall be assessed in accordance with the provisions of
the City of Federal Way Fee Schedule.
(7) IMC 106:5-3109.6, Fee refunds, is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
Fees shall be refunded in accordance with the City of Federal Way Fee Schedule.
(8) IMC 108.3115.3, Prosecution of violation, is hereby amended to read as follows:
If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the building official shall take
action as prescribed in Title 1 of the FWRC.
(9) IMC 44"115.4, Violation penalties, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the
requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter or repair mechanical work in
violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or
of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to the
provisions of Title 1 of the FWRC.
(10) IMC 408-.7115.6, Unsafe mechanical systems, is hereby amended to read as follows:
A mechanical system that is unsafe, constitutes a fire or health hazard, or is otherwise
dangerous to human life, as regulated by this code, is hereby declared as an unsafe
mechanical system. Use of a mechanical system regulated by this code constituting a
hazard to health, safety or welfare by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, fire
hazard, disaster, damage or abandonment is hereby declared an unsafe use. Such unsafe
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 8 of 20
equipment and appliances are hereby declared to be a nuisance and shall be abated by
repair, rehabilitation, demolition or removal in accordance with Title 1 of the FWRC.
(11) IMC 1�'�115.6.1, Authority to condemn mechanical systems, is hereby amended to read
as follows:
Whenever the building official determines that any mechanical system, or portion
thereof, regulated by this code has become hazardous to life, health, property, or has
become insanitary, the building official may issue an order to cease activity. The cease
activity notice shall be issued pursuant to Section 1.15.030 of the FWRC. A person shall
not use or maintain a defective mechanical system after receiving such notice. When
such mechanical system is to be disconnected, written notice as prescribed in Title 1 of
the FWRC shall be given. In cases of immediate danger to life or property, such
disconnection shall be made immediately without such notice.
(12) IMC 4094114.1, Application for appeal, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Appeals of decisions or determinations made by the building official relative to the
application and interpretation of this code shall be made to the hearings examiner
pursuant to FWRC 13.06.060.
Section 9. FWRC 13.28.020 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.28.020 20�$21 International Existing Building Code adopted.
The 204-921 Edition of the International Existing Building Code (IEBC), as published by the
International Code Conference (ICC), is hereby adopted by reference pursuant to
Chapter 19.27 RCW and Chapter 51-50 WAC.
Section 10. FWRC 13.28.030 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.28.030 204821 International Existing Building Code amendments.
(1) IEBC 101.1, Title, is hereby amended to read as follows:
These regulations shall be known as the Existing Building Code of the City of Federal
Way, hereinafter referred to as "this code."
Section 11. FWRC 13.31.020 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.31.020 201521 International Fire Code adopted.
The 204421 Edition of the International Fire Code (IFC), published by the International Code
Council, is hereby adopted by reference pursuant to Chapter 19.27 RCW and Chapter 51-54A WAC
with the following additions, deletions, and exceptions. Appendix B is adopted as amended.
Appendices C, E, F, and I are adopted by reference.
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 9 of 20
Section 12. FWRC 13.31.030 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.31.030 204821 International Fire Code amendments.
(1) IFC Section 503 is hereby created as follows:
(a) IFC 503.1, Where required. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided and
maintained in accordance with Sections 503.1.1 through 503.1.3.
(b) IFC 503.1.1 Buildings and facilities. Approved fire apparatus access roads shall be
provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter constructed or
moved into or within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access road shall comply with
the requirements of this section and shall extend to within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of all
portions of the facility and all portions of the exterior walls of the first story of the
building as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the building or facility.
Exception: The fire code official is authorized to increase the dimension of 150 feet (45
720 mm) where:
1. The building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.
2. Fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed because of location on property,
topography, waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar conditions, and an
approved alternative means of fire protection is provided.
3. There are not more than two Group R-3 or Group U occupancies.
(c) IFC 503.1.2 Additional access. The fire code official is authorized to require more
than one fire apparatus access road based on the potential for impairment of a single road
by vehicle congestion, condition of terrain, climatic conditions or other factors that could
limit access.
(d) IFC 503.1.3 High -piled storage. Fire department vehicle access to buildings used for
high -piled combustible storage shall comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter
32.
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 10 of 20
(e) IFC 503.2 Specifications. Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed and arranged
in accordance with Sections 503.2.1 through 503.2.8.
(f) IFC 503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed
width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved
security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance
of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm).
(g) IFC 503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall have the authority to require an
increase in the minimum access widths where they are inadequate for fire or rescue
operations.
(h) IFC 503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to
support the imposed loads of fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-
weather driving capabilities.
(i) IFC 503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access
road shall be determined by the fire code official.
0) IFC 503.2.5 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45
720 mm) in length shall be provided with an approved area for turning around fire
apparatus.
(k) IFC 503.2.6 Bridges and elevated surfaces. Where a bridge or an elevated surface is
part of a fire apparatus access road, the bridge shall be constructed and maintained in
accordance with AASHTO HB-17. Bridges and elevated surfaces shall be designed for a
live load sufficient to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus. Vehicle load limits shall
be posted at both entrances to bridges when required by the fire code official. Where
elevated surfaces designed for emergency vehicle use are adjacent to surfaces which are
not designed for such use, approved barriers, approved signs or both shall be installed
and maintained when required by the fire code official.
(1) IFC 503.2.7 Grade. The grade of the fire apparatus access road shall be within the
limits established by the fire code official based on the fire department's apparatus. The
maximum cross slope grade shall not exceed 5%.
(m) IFC 503.2.8 Angles of approach and departure. The angles of approach and departure
for fire apparatus access roads shall be within the limits established by the fire code
official based on the fire department's apparatus.
Or i nOrtl r, lYV. L'f-lvu l ugo 1 l Vf 4V
(n) IFC 503.4 Obstruction of fire apparatus access roads. Fire apparatus access roads
shall not be obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. The minimum
widths and clearances established in Section 503.2.1 shall be maintained at all times.
(o) IFC 503.5 Required gates or barricades. The fire code official is authorized to require
the installation and maintenance of gates or other approved barricades across fire
apparatus access roads, trails or other accessways, not including public streets, alleys or
highways. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL
325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed
to comply with the requirements of ASTM F 2200.
(p) IFC 503.5.1 Secured gates and barricades. When required, gates and barricades shall
be secured in an approved manner. Roads, trails and other accessways that have been
closed and obstructed in the manner prescribed by Section 503.5 shall not be trespassed
on or used unless authorized by the owner and the fire code official.
Exception: The restriction on use shall not apply to public officers acting within the
scope of duty.
(q) IFC 503.6 Security gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus
access road shall be approved by the fire chief. Where security gates are installed, they
shall have an approved means of emergency operation. The security gates and the
emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times. Electric gate operators,
where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic
operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of
ASTM F 2200.
Q IFC Section 505.1 is hereby amended as follows:
IFC 505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with
approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a
position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification
characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers
or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be 4pelled out. Each character shall be not less
than 8 inches 203.2 mm high with a minimum stroke width of 112 inch 12.7 mm . Where
required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional
approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private
road and the buildinj4 cannot be viewed from the public wadmonument, pole or other
Sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be
maintained.
Exception: Each character shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mrn) high with a minimum
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 12 of 20
stroke width of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) for 1 or 2 family dwellings,
(23) IFC Appendix B is hereby amended as follows:
(a) Section B 105.2, Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, is replaced as follows:
B 105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings. The minimum fire flow and
flow duration for buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings shall be as
specified in IFC Table B 105.1(2).
Exception: A reduction in required fire flow of up to 50 percent, as approved, is allowed
when the building is protected throughout with an automatic fire sprinkler system
installed in accordance with NFPA 13 or NFPA 13R. The resulting fire flow shall not be
less than 1,500 gallons per minute (5,678 L/min) for the prescribed duration as specified
in Table B 105.1(2).
(b) Table B105.2 is deleted.
Section 13. FWRC 13.34.020 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.34.020 201821 Uniform Plumbing Code adopted.
The 204-8-21 Edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), including Appendices A, B, and I, as
published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), is
hereby adopted by reference pursuant to Chapter 19.27 RCW and Chapter 51-56 WAC, with the
following additions, deletions and exceptions; provided, that Chapters 12 and 15 of this code are not
adopted; provided further, that those requirements of the UPC relating to venting and combustion air
of fuel fired appliances as found in Chapter 5 and those portions of the code addressing building
sewers are not adopted. Where a conflict exists between the provisions of -Appendix I and the
manufacturer's installation instructions, the conditions of the listing and the manufacturer's
installation instructions shall apply.
Section 14. FWRC 13.34.030 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.34.030 204921 Uniform Plumbing Code amendments.
The Uniform Plumbing Code, adopted by reference in FWRC 13.34.020, is amended as follows:
(1) UPC 103.3.2.1, Amended Permit, is hereby created as follows:
When the scope for which the permit was issued is changed, an application to amend the
building permit shall be required. Amended permit documents including but not limited
to revised plans, or other documents needed in order to clarify the intent and scope of the
amended application shall be submitted for plan review. Fees for the review of the
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 13 of 20
amended permit application shall be assessed and paid pursuant to the City of Federal
Way fee resolution. When the building official is satisfied that the proposed work
included in the amended application conforms to the requirements of this code and laws
and ordinances applicable thereto, the building official shall issue a permit therefore as
soon as practicable.
(2) UPC 103.3.3, Expiration, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Every permit issued by the building official under the provisions of this code shall expire
by limitation and become null and void if the work authorized by such permit is not
commenced within one hundred and eighty (180) days from the date of such permit, or if
the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned at any time after the work
is commenced for a period of one hundred and eighty (180) days.
A permittee holding an unexpired permit shall be permitted to apply for an extension of
the time within which work shall be permitted to commence under that permit when the
pennittee is unable to commence work within the time required by this section. The
building official shall be permitted to extend the time for action one or more times by the
permittee for a period not exceeding one hundred and eighty (180) days upon written
request by the permittee. In order to renew action on a permit after expiration where such
suspension or abatement has exceeded one (1) year, the permittee shall pay a new full
permit fee.
(3) UPC 103.4.2, Expiration of Plan Review, is amended in its entirety as follows:
An application for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been
abandoned 180 days after the date of filing, unless such application has been pursued in
good faith or a permit has been issued; except that the building official is authorized to
grant one or more extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 180 days each.
The extension shall be requested in writing. A new, complete permit application and full
fees must be submitted to restart the review process on any expired application that
cannot be extended. The new application date is the date of the new submittal.
Section 15. FWRC 13.38.020 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.38.020 Electrical codes adopted.
(1) Adoption by reference. The following codes, as presently constituted or as may be subsequently
amended, are all adopted as amended, added to, or excepted in this title, together with all
amendments and additions provided in this title, and shall be applicable within the city:
(a) The National Electrical Code (NEC), 202023 Edition, as published by the National Fire
Protection Association;
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 14 of 20
(b) The laws, rules and regulations for installing electrical wiring and equipment set forth in
Chapter 19.28 RCW;
(c) The following chapters of the Washington Administrative Code:
(i) Chapter 296-43 WAC, Heating Installation;
(ii) Chapter 296-45 WAC, Safety Standards, Electrical Workers;
(iii) Chapter 296-46B WAC, Electrical Safety Standards, Administration, and Installation.
(2) Purpose. This title is enacted as an exercise of police power of the city for the benefit of the
public at large. It is not intended to create a special relationship with any individual, or individuals,
or to identify and protect any particular class of persons. The purpose of this title is to provide
minimum standards to safeguard life or limb, health, property and public welfare, by regulating and
controlling building construction and work related thereto.
Section 16. FWRC 13.41.020 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.41.020 2047821 International Energy Conservation Code adopted.
The 204-821 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), published by the International Code
Council as amended by the state of Washington, is hereby adopted by reference pursuant to
Chapter 19.27 RCW and Chapters 51-11R and 51-11C WAC. Where this Code is in conflict with
one or more of the city's adopted regulations, the more restrictive language shall apply.
Section 17. FWRC 13.43.020 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.43.020 204-821 International Property Maintenance Code adopted.
The 204-821 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) is adopted as amended, added to, or
excepted in this title, and shall be applicable within the city. Where this Code is in conflict with one
or more of the city's adopted regulations, the more restrictive language shall apply.
Section 18. FWRC 13.43.030 is hereby amended to read as follows:
13.43.030 201821 International Property Maintenance Code amendments.
The International Property Maintenance Code, adopted by reference in FWRC 13.43.020, is amended
as follows:
(1) IPMC 101.1, Title, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 15 of 20
These regulations shall be known as the Property Maintenance Code of City of Federal
Way, hereinafter referred to as "this code."
(2) IPMC 102.3, Application of other codes, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Repairs, additions or alterations to a structure, or changes of occupancy, shall be done in
accordance with the procedures and provisions of the International Building Code,
International Residential Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Mechanical
Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, National Electrical Code, Washington State Energy
Code and the Washington State Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality Code. Nothing in this
code shall be construed to cancel, modify or set aside any provision of the Federal Way
Revised Code.
(3) IPMC 103 is hereby deleted in its entirety.
(4) IPMC 106.2, Notice of violation, is hereby amended to read as follows:
The code official shall serve a notice of violation or order in accordance with Title 1 of
the Federal Way Revised Code (FWRC).
(5) IPMC 106.3, Prosecution of violation, is hereby deleted in its entirety.
(6) IPMC 106.4, Violation penalties, is hereby deleted in its entirety.
(7) IPMC 106.5, Abatement of violation, is hereby deleted in its entirety.
(8) IPMC 107.1, Notice to person responsible, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Whenever the code official determines that there has been a violation of this code or has
grounds to believe that a violation has occurred, notice shall be given in the manner
prescribed in Section 1.15.040 of the FWRC.
(9) IPMC 107.2, Form, is hereby deleted in its entirety.
(10) IPMC 107.3, Method of service, is hereby deleted in its entirety.
(11) IPMC 107.5, Penalties, is hereby deleted in its entirety.
(12) IPMC 111, title, is hereby amended to read as follows:
HEARINGS EXAMINER.
(13) IPMC 111.1, General, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 16 of 20
Appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official relative to
the application and interpretation of this code shall be made to the hearings examiner
pursuant to FWRC 13.05.060.
(14) IPMC 111.2, Limitations on authority, is hereby amended to read as follows:
An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the
rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this
code do not fully apply. The hearings examiner shall have no authority relative to the
interpretation of the administrative provisions of this Code nor shall the hearings
examiner be empowered to waive any requirements of this code.
(15) IPMC 112, title, is hereby amended to read as follows:
ORDER TO CEASE ACTIVITY
(16) IPMC 112.1, Authority, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Orders to cease activity. Whenever any work is being done contrary to the provisions of
this Code, or other pertinent laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of
this Code, the building official may order the work to cease by issuance of an order to
cease activity pursuant to the FWRC 1.15.030.
(17) IPMC 112.2, Issuance, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Occupancy violations. Whenever any building or structure or equipment therein
regulated by this Code is being used contrary to the provisions of this Code, the building
official may, by issuance of an order to cease activity pursuant to FWRC 1.15.030, order
such use discontinued and the structure, or portion thereof, vacated.
(18) IPMC 112.3, Unlawful continuance, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with an order to cease
activity, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or
unsafe condition, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
(19) IPMC 202, Definitions, is hereby amended to read in part:
CODE OFFICIAL. Shall mean the Building Official.
(20) IPMC 302.4, Weeds, is hereby amended to read as follows:
All premises and exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds or plant growth
in excess of six inches in height on development property or 12 inches in height on
vacant land. All noxious weeds shall be prohibited. Weeds shall be defined as all grasses,
annual plants, and vegetation, other than trees or shrubs; however, this term shall not
include cultivated flowers and gardens.
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 17 of 20
Section 19. A new Chapter 13.47, International Wildland-Urban Interface Code, including
Section 13.47.010, 13.47.020, and 13.47.030, is hereby added to Title 13, Buildings, to read as
follows:
Chapter 13.47 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code
13.47.010 Title.
This chapter shall be known as International Wildland-Urban Interface code.
13.47.020 2021 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted.
The 2021 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC) is adopted as amended, added to, yr
excepted in this title, and shall be applicable within the city. Where this Code is in conflict with one
or more of the city's adopted regulations. the more restrictive language shall apply.
13.47.030 2021 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code amendments.
The International Wildland-Urban Interface Code, adopted by reference in FWRC 13.47.030, is
amended as follows:
(1) MUUC 101.1, Title, is hereby amended to read as follows:
These regulations shall be known as the Wildland-Urban Interface Code of City of
Federal Way, hereinafter referred to as "this code."
Section 20. Severability. Should any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, or
phrase of this chapter, or its application to any person or situation, be declared unconstitutional or
invalid for any reason, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this
chapter or its application to any other person or situation. The City Council of the City of Federal
Way hereby declares that it would have adopted this chapter and each section, subsection, sentence,
clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections,
sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 18 of 20
Section 21. Corrections. The City Clerk and the codifiers of this ordinance are authorized to
make necessary corrections to this ordinance including, but not limited to, the correction of
scrivener/clerical errors, references, ordinance numbering, section/subsection numbers and any
references thereto.
Section 22. Ratification. Any act consistent with the authority and prior to the effective date
of this ordinance is hereby ratified and affirmed.
Section 23. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect March 15, 2024.
PASSED by the City Council of the City of Federal Way this 16th day of January, 2024.
[signatures to follow]
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 19 of 20
CITY OF FEDERAL WAY:
JI LL, MAYOR
ATTEST:
&MAtt iyLan
SPAOIE COURTNEY, �yll
CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
3�zo`
J. RYAN CALL, CITY ATTORNEY
FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK: 12/27/2023
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL: 01/16/2024
PUBLISHED: 01/19/2024
EFFECTIVE DATE: 03/15/2024
ORDINANCE NO.: 24-980
Ordinance No. 24-980 Page 20 of 20