New state building codes delayed until March 2024

Submitted by SJC

San Juan County’s Department of Community Development is alerting the public of a revised timeline for the implementation of new state building codes. The Washington State Building Code Council (SBCC) voted to delay the effective date of the 2021 codes until March 15, 2024. Previously, the effective date was Oct. 29, 2023.

What does this mean for San Juan County?

San Juan County adopts codes, as amended by the Washington State Building Code Council. One important update regards energy use. For newly constructed habitable structures, the new building and energy codes will require additional insulation and other measures to improve energy efficiency. Over time, this will contribute to climate resiliency and, ideally, lower energy costs for San Juan County residents.

How to learn more:

Those interested in learning more can visit the Washington State Building Code Council website at: https://www.sbcc.wa.gov/. The official announcement is found here: https://www.sbcc.wa.gov/news/revised-effective-date-2021-codes-march-15-2024