SENATE BILL REPORT

                            SB 5798

                    AS OF FEBRUARY 25, 1993

Brief Description:  Abolishing the building code council.

SPONSORS: Senators Snyder, Bauer and Winsley

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES

Staff:  Phil Moeller (786‑7445)

Hearing Dates: February 25, 1993; February 26, 1993

BACKGROUND:

The Legislature created the State Building Code Advisory Council in 1974, and changed the name to the State Building Code Council (SBCC) in 1985.  The SBCC is part of the Department of Community Development.

The SBCC has the power to adopt rules that focus on developing and maintaining codes related to building construction.  These codes specifically cover construction standards, mechanical devices, fire protection, plumbing standards, accessibility for the physically challenged, and energy conservation.

Generally when the SBCC adopts a code the requirements within that code serve as a mandatory minimum.  Within some codes local jurisdictions can adopt even more stringent requirements as long as the "higher" code remains consistent with the intent of the state minimum code.

Membership of the SBCC is specified in statute.  Its fifteen members include representatives from the following entities or professions:  elected officials of counties (two); elected officials of cities (two); local government code enforcement; local government fire service; general construction, non-residential; general construction, residential; architectural design; structural engineering; mechanical engineering; building trades; building materials; the disabled community; and the general public.

Some entities have complained about the complexity of the codes adopted by the SBCC. 

SUMMARY:

References to the State Building Code Council are stricken or repealed.  The duties of the State Building Code Council (SBCC) become the responsibility of the Department of Community Development.

The state building code is the maximum code and shall not be exceeded by any local code.  References to past or ongoing studies by the SBCC are stricken or repealed.  Interim ventilation requirements for new residential construction are stricken.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  requested February 24, 1993