2021 Seattle Code Adoption - What & Why

SDCI Proposed Changes

What’s Happening Now?

SDCI is reviewing the changes proposed by the State of Washington in its adoption of the 2021 national model codes (I-codes) and changes in the 2021 editions of the I-codes made by the International Code Council for potential inclusion in the 2021 editions of the Seattle Construction Codes. The Seattle Construction codes are being updated to the 2021 editions and include the building, residential, existing building, energy, mechanical, plumbing, fuel gas, and fire codes. The target effective date for these new codes is July 1, 2023. There is no planned grace period beyond this date.

Throughout the end of 2022 and the beginning of 2023, SDCI will review these changes with the Construction Codes Advisory Board (CCAB). Based on CCAB’s recommendation, SDCI will prepare the codes for eventual adoption by the Seattle City Council. For CCAB meeting details, please see the meetings & events calendar displayed on the right-hand side of this page.

SDCI is also accepting code change proposals from the public for the Seattle Construction Codes through December 31, 2022. These code change proposals will be presented to CCAB in January through March, 2023. Send any proposed changes to:

Jenifer Gilliland, Senior Technical Code Development Analyst
(206) 233-2766
jenifer.gilliland@seattle.gov  

Micah Chappell, Technical Codes Development Manager
(206) 256-5157
micah.chappell@seattle.gov  

Current Seattle Codes Are Available

The 2018 Seattle construction codes are now available for purchase through the International Code Council as a bookmarked pdf copy that you can download. 

You can order printed copies of the Seattle construction codes and errata through SDCI. View our publication list for prices. To order, please submit a request through the Seattle Services Portal using the Permits - Trade, Construction and Land Use option. See How to Purchase Seattle Code Books From SDCI for instructions on how to submit your request.

Read only versions of the Seattle construction codes and errata are available on the code webpages.

Project Benefits

Regular updates to Seattle's construction codes make it easier to:

  • Incorporate emerging technology and materials into construction to increase a building's safety, usability, and lifespan

  • Keep Seattle competitive and innovative with early adoption of national code changes

  • Adopt requirements that ensure Seattle's leading-edge energy and carbon reduction goals are met

  • Decrease differences in construction code adoption and enforcement with neighboring communities     

The End Result

SDCI is preparing for the adoption of the 2021 editions of the national model codes published with State of Washington and local Seattle amendments. 

Construction and Inspections

Nathan Torgelson, Director
Address: 700 5th Ave, Suite 2000, Seattle, WA, 98104
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 34019, Seattle, WA, 98124-4019
Phone: (206) 684-8600
Phone Alt: Violation Complaint Line: (206) 615-0808
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SDCI issues land use, construction, and trade permits, conducts construction and housing-related inspections, ensures compliance with our codes, and regulates rental rules. SDCI is committed to an antiracist workplace and to addressing racism through our work in the community.