The bill amends several sections of the Washington state building code to enhance regulations related to the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Code. Key changes include the adoption of only specific portions of the International Wildland Urban Interface Code, as referenced in RCW 19.27.560, and the requirement for the state building code council to ensure that Wildland Urban Interface Codes are consistent with these provisions. Additionally, the bill mandates the establishment of a statewide wildfire hazard map and a base-level wildfire risk map for each county, which will inform local jurisdictions in their building permit processes for areas identified as high hazard.

Furthermore, the bill allows counties, cities, and towns to create their own wildfire hazard and risk maps until the statewide maps are completed, after which local maps must align with the state criteria. It also establishes a program for technical assistance and grants to support local governments in developing findings of fact and maps for wildland urban interface areas. The bill emphasizes the importance of addressing firefighter safety during the code adoption process and declares an emergency for immediate implementation.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 19.27.031, 19.27.074, 19.27.560
Engrossed Bill: 19.27.031, 19.27.074, 19.27.560, 43.30.580
Bill as Passed Legislature: 19.27.031, 19.27.074, 19.27.560, 43.30.580
Session Law: 19.27.031, 19.27.074, 19.27.560, 43.30.580