2018 Seattle Code Adoption - What & Why

We update construction codes to ensure that people in Seattle get to live, work and play in buildings that are safe, sustainable, and accessible.
  • What & Why
    Proposing potential changes for Seattle’s 2018 construction codes.
  • Get Involved
    Proposing potential changes for Seattle’s 2018 construction codes.
  • Project Documents
    Proposing potential changes for Seattle’s 2018 construction codes.
  • Timeline
    Proposing potential changes for Seattle’s 2018 construction codes.

What’s Happening Now?

We have adopted the 2018 editions of Seattle construction codes and are now in the process of adopting errata for the following codes:

  • 2018 Seattle Building Code

Code changes can come from various sources including the International Code Council, State of Washington, members of the public, and City staff. Proposed code changes have been reviewed by SDCI staff and the Seattle Construction Codes Advisory Board (CCAB). The board has substantially completed its review of the codes. SDCI will make a recommendation to the Seattle City Council in Spring 2021. 

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

Seattle adopted the 2018 editions of the national model codes published by the International Code Council along with State of Washington and local amendments. They became effective on March 15, 2021. A summary of key changes is posted on the Project Documents page.