This bill aims to implement the International Wildland Urban Interface Code in Washington State by amending existing laws related to building codes. It reenacts and amends RCW 19.27.031, which outlines the state building code that includes various model codes, now explicitly incorporating the International Wildland Urban Interface Code. The bill mandates that the state building code council adopt this code by November 1, 2029, following the completion of statewide wildfire hazard and base-level wildfire risk maps for each county. Additionally, it allows counties, cities, and towns to adopt the International Wildland Urban Interface Code in whole or in part until 90 days after the completion of the statewide maps.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for the development of wildfire hazard maps and risk assessments, requiring collaboration between the state building code council, the Department of Natural Resources, and local governments. It also introduces provisions for local amendments to the code, contingent upon approval from local fire marshals, and emphasizes the importance of aligning defensible space requirements with existing environmental regulations. The Department of Natural Resources is tasked with maintaining the statewide wildfire hazard and risk maps, ensuring they are accessible to the public and updated based on local assessments.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 19.27.560
Substitute Bill: 19.27.560, 43.30.580