FINAL BILL REPORT

                  SSB 6214

                          C 157 L 96

                      Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Defining a temporary growing structure.

Sponsors:  Senate Committee on Agriculture & Agricultural Trade & Development (originally sponsored by Senators Snyder, Newhouse, Rasmussen, Morton, Prince and Hargrove).

Senate Committee on Agriculture & Agricultural Trade & Development

House Committee on Agriculture & Ecology

Background:  There are at least two common types of structures that are used for the growing of plants:  (1) those "greenhouses" that fit the dictionary definition of "a glassed enclosure used for the cultivation or protection of tender plants," and (2) a framework that is covered with a light plastic sheeting.  The glassed enclosure is a more permanent structure, whereas the light plastic sheeting deteriorates in a year or two when exposed to ultraviolet rays and wind.

Appendix chapter 3 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code contains standards for horticultural structures including "greenhouses."  This appendix can be used at the option of the local building department.  The appendix does not contain a definition of "greenhouse" to determine whether structures with plastic sheeting are included.

There is an administrative process whereby persons may request a change to the State Building Code.  That process requires a petition to the State Building Code Council.  The council is on a three-year cycle for making changes to the code.  Any code revisions that are adopted must sit through a legislative session before they become effective.  Changes made through this process would take effect in mid-year of 1998.

Summary:  A separate definition is established in the State Building Code statute for "temporary growing structures."  It is defined as a structure that has the sides and roof covered with flexible plastic material and is used to provide plants with frost protection or increased heat.

Temporary growing structures that are solely used for commercial production of horticultural plants are exempt from the requirements of the State Building Code.  The structures continue to be subject to requirements adopted by local jurisdictions, including local zoning and building setbacks.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate    42 0

House     95 0 (House amended)

Senate    45 0 (Senate concurred)

Effective:  March 25, 1996