Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Local Government Committee
SB 5508
Brief Description: Promoting local agriculture through greenhouses.
Sponsors: Senators Short, Shewmake, Warnick, Wilson, J. and Wilson, L..
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Provides that the State Building Code does not apply to any temporary growing structures used solely for the production of horticultural plants.
  • Establishes that a temporary growing structure is not considered a structure for purposes of the State Building Code.
Hearing Date: 2/14/24
Staff: Elizabeth Allison (786-7129).
Background:

State Building Code Council.

 
The State Building Code Council (SBCC) is a state agency that adopts and updates the State Building Code (Code).  The Code adopted by the SBCC establishes the minimum building, mechanical, fire, plumbing, and energy code requirements applicable to the construction of buildings.

 

State Building Code.


The Code is comprised of model codes published by the International Code Council, including building, residential, and fire codes, adopted by reference in statute, as well as rules developed and adopted by the SBCC.  The model codes typically set forth the industry standard.  The SBCC reviews updated editions of each model code and standard every three years.

 

Temporary Growing Structures.


A temporary growing structure is a structure that has sides and a roof covered with polyethylene, polyvinyl, or other similar flexible synthetic material that is used to provide plants with either frost protection or increased heat retention.

 

The Code does not apply to temporary growing structures used solely for the commercial production of horticultural plants, including ornamental plants, flowers, vegetables, and fruits.  A temporary growing shelter is not considered a building for purposes of the Code.
Summary of Bill:

The Code does not apply to a temporary growing structure used solely for the production of horticultural plants, rather than solely for the commercial production of horticultural plants.


A temporary growing structure is redefined as a structure that has a roof, rather than both sides and a roof, covered with polyethylene, polyvinyl, or other similar flexible synthetic material that is used to provide plants with either frost protection or increased heat retention.


A temporary growing structure is not considered a building or structure for purposes of the Code.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.