WSR 21-06-035
PERMANENT RULES
BUILDING CODE COUNCIL
[Filed February 23, 2021, 4:40 p.m., effective March 26, 2021]
Effective Date of Rule: Thirty-one days after filing.
Purpose: Making editorial changes to chapter 51-50 WAC, Adoption and amendment of the 2018 International Building Code, correcting section reference and numbering errors.
Citation of Rules Affected by this Order: New 1; and amending 12.
Adopted under notice filed as WSR 20-24-122 on December 2, 2020.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Comply with Federal Statute: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Federal Rules or Standards: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Recently Enacted State Statutes: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted at the Request of a Nongovernmental Entity: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted on the Agency's own Initiative: New 1, Amended 12, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Clarify, Streamline, or Reform Agency Procedures: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted using Negotiated Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Pilot Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Other Alternative Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Date Adopted: February 19, 2021.
Diane Glenn
Chair
OTS-2787.2
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 16-03-064, filed 1/19/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-50-0310Section 310—Residential Group R.
((310.2 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
ADULT FAMILY HOME.
BOARDING HOUSE.
CHILD CARE.
CHILD CARE, FAMILY HOME.
CONGREGATE LIVING FACILITIES.
DORMITORY.
GROUP HOME.
GUEST ROOM.
LODGING HOUSE.
PERSONAL CARE SERVICE.
TRANSIENT.
310.4))310.3 Residential Group R-2. Residential occupancies containing sleeping units or more than two dwelling units where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature, including:
Apartment houses
Boarding houses (nontransient) with more than 16 occupants
Congregate living facilities (nontransient) with more than 16 occupants
Convents
Dormitories
Fraternities and sororities
Hotels (nontransient)
Live/work units
Monasteries
Motels (nontransient)
Vacation timeshare properties
((310.5.3))310.4.3 Adult family homes, family home child care. Adult family homes and family home child care facilities that are within a single-family home are permitted to comply with the International Residential Code.
((310.5.4))310.4.4 Foster family care homes. Foster family care homes licensed by Washington state are permitted to comply with the International Residential Code, as an accessory use to a dwelling, for six or fewer children including those of the resident family.
((310.6))310.5 Residential Group R-4. R-4 classification is not adopted. Any reference in this code to R-4 does not apply.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 20-01-090, filed 12/12/19, effective 7/1/20)
WAC 51-50-0412Section 412—Aircraft-related occupancies.
412.2.2.1 Stairways. Stairways in airport traffic control towers shall be in accordance with Section 1011. Exit stairways shall be smokeproof enclosures complying with one of the alternatives provided in Section 909.20. Where interior exit stairways and ramps are pressurized in accordance with Section 909.20.5, the smoke control pressurization system shall comply with the requirements specified in Section 909.6.3.
[F]((412.8.3))412.7.3 Means of egress. The means of egress from heliports, helipads and helistops shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 10. Landing areas located on buildings or structures shall have two or more means of egress. For landing areas less than 60 feet in length or less than 2,000 square feet (186 m2) in area, the second means of egress is permitted to be a fire escape, alternating tread device or ladder leading to the floor below. On Group I-2 roofs with heliports or helipads and helistops, rooftop structures enclosing exit stair enclosures or elevator shafts shall be enclosed with fire barriers and opening protectives that match the rating of their respective shaft enclosures below.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 20-21-021, filed 10/9/20, effective 11/9/20)
WAC 51-50-0504Section 504—Building height and number of stories.
Table 504.3
Allowable Building Height in Feet Above Grade Planea
Occupancy Classification | Type of Construction |
See Footnotes | Type I | Type II | Type III | Type IV | Type V |
A | B | A | B | A | B | A | B | C | HT | A | B |
A, B, E, F, M, S, U | NSb | UL | 160 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 50 | 40 |
S | UL | 180 | 85 | 75 | 85 | 75 | 270 | 180 | 85 | 85 | 70 | 60 |
H-1, H-2, H-3, H-5 | NSc,d | UL | 160 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 55 | 120 | 90 | 65 | 65 | 50 | 40 |
S | | | | | | | | | | | | |
H-4 | NSc,d | UL | 160 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 50 | 40 |
S | UL | 180 | 85 | 75 | 85 | 75 | 140 | 100 | 85 | 85 | 70 | 60 |
I-1 Condition 1, I-3 | NSd,e | UL | 160 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 50 | 40 |
S | UL | 180 | 85 | 75 | 85 | 75 | 180 | 120 | 85 | 85 | 70 | 60 |
I-1 Condition 2, I-2 | NSd,e,f | UL | 160 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 50 | 40 |
Si | UL | 180 | 85 | | | | | | | | | |
I-4 | NSd,g | UL | 160 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 50 | 40 |
S | UL | 180 | 85 | 75 | 85 | 75 | ((270)) 180 | ((180)) 120 | 85 | 85 | 70 | 60 |
Rh | NSd | UL | 160 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 55 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 65 | 50 | 40 |
S13D | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 50 | 40 |
S13R | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 |
S | UL | 180 | 85 | 75 | 85 | 75 | 270 | 180 | 85 | 85 | 70 | 60 |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. |
UL = Unlimited; NS = Buildings not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system; S = Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1; S13R = Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2. |
| a | See Chapters 4 and 5 for specific exceptions to the allowable height in this chapter. |
| b | See Section 903.2 for the minimum thresholds for protection by an automatic sprinkler system for specific occupancies. |
| c | New Group H occupancies are required to be protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.5. |
| d | The NS value is only for use in evaluation of existing building height in accordance with the International Existing Building Code. |
| e | New Group I-1 and I-3 occupancies are required to be protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.6. For new Group I-1 occupancies Condition 1, see Exception 1 of Section 903.2.6. |
| f | New and existing Group I-2 occupancies are required to be protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.6 and Section 1103.5 of the International Fire Code. |
| g | For new Group I-4 occupancies, see Exceptions 2 and 3 of Section 903.2.6. |
| h | New Group R occupancies are required to be protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.8. |
| i | I-1, Condition 2 Assisted living facilities licensed in accordance with chapter 388-78A WAC and residential treatment facilities as licensed by Washington state under chapter 246-337 WAC shall be permitted to use the allowable height above grade plane for Group R-2 occupancies. |
Table 504.4
Allowable Number of Stories Above Grade Planea,b
Occupancy Classification | Type of Construction |
See Footnotes | Type I | Type II | Type III | Type IV | Type V |
A | B | A | B | A | B | A | B | C | HT | A | B |
A-1 | NS | UL | 5 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
S | UL | 6 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
A-2 | NS | UL | 11 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
S | UL | 12 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 18 | 12 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
A-3 | NS | UL | 11 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
S | UL | 12 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 18 | 12 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
A-4 | NS | UL | 11 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
S | UL | 12 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 18 | 12 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
A-5 | NS | UL | UL | UL | UL | UL | UL | 1 | 1 | 1 | UL | UL | UL |
S | UL | UL | UL | UL | UL | UL | UL | UL | UL | UL | UL | UL |
B | NS | UL | 11 | 5 | 3 | 5 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
S | UL | 12 | 6 | 4 | 6 | 4 | 18 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
E | NS | UL | 5 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
S | UL | 6 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 2 |
F-1 | NS | UL | 11 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
S | UL | 12 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
F-2 | NS | UL | 11 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
S | UL | 12 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
H-1 | NSc,d | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | NP | NP | NP | 1 | 1 | NP |
S | | | | | | | 1 | 1 | 1 | | | |
H-2 | NSc,d | UL | 3 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
S | | | | | | | 2 | 2 | 2 | | | |
H-3 | NSc,d | UL | 6 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
S | | | | | | | 4 | 4 | 4 | | | |
H-4 | NSc,d | UL | 7 | 5 | 3 | 5 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
S | UL | 8 | 6 | 4 | 6 | 4 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
H-5 | NSc,d | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 2 |
S | | | | | | | 3 | 3 | 3 | | | |
I-1 Condition 1 | NSd,e | UL | 9 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
S | UL | 10 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
I-1 Condition 2 | NSd,e | UL | 9 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
Si | UL | 10 | 5 | | | | 10 | 6 | 4 | | | |
I-2 | NSd,f | UL | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | NP | NP | NP | NP | 1 | 1 | NP |
S | UL | 5 | 3 | | | | 7 | 5 | 1 | | | |
I-3 | NSd,e | UL | 4 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
S | UL | 5 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 |
I-4 | NSd,g | UL | 5 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
S | UL | 6 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 2 |
M | NS | UL | 11 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 1 |
S | UL | 12 | 5 | 3 | 5 | 3 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 2 |
R-1h | NSd | UL | 11 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
S13R | 4 | 4 | | | | | | | | | 4 | 3 |
S | UL | 12 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 18 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
R-2h | NSd | UL | 11 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
S13R | 4 | 4 | 4 | | | | | | | | 4 | 3 |
| S | UL | 12 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 18 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
R-3h | NSd | UL | 11 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 |
S13D | 4 | 4 | | | | | | | | | 3 | 3 |
S13R | 4 | 4 | | | | | | | | | 4 | 4 |
S | UL | 12 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 18 | 12 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
R-4h | NSd | UL | 11 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
S13D | 4 | 4 | | | | | | | | | 3 | 2 |
S13R | 4 | 4 | | | | | | | | | 4 | 3 |
S | UL | 12 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 18 | 12 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
S-1 | NS | UL | 11 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 1 |
S | UL | 12 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 2 |
S-2 | NS | UL | 11 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 2 |
S | UL | 12 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 |
U | NS | UL | 5 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
S | UL | 6 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
UL = Unlimited; NP = Not permitted; NS = Buildings not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system; S = Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1; S13R = Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2. |
| a | See Chapters 4 and 5 for specific exceptions to the allowable height in this chapter. |
| b | See Section 903.2 for the minimum thresholds for protection by an automatic sprinkler system for specific occupancies. |
| c | New Group H occupancies are required to be protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.5. |
| d | The NS value is only for use in evaluation of existing building height in accordance with the International Existing Building Code. |
| e | New Group I-1 and I-3 occupancies are required to be protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.6. For new Group I-1 occupancies Condition 1, see Exception 1 of Section 903.2.6. |
| f | New and existing Group I-2 occupancies are required to be protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.6 and Section 1103.5 of the International Fire Code. |
| g | For new Group I-4 occupancies, see Exceptions 2 and 3 of Section 903.2.6. |
| h | New Group R occupancies are required to be protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.8. |
| i | Group I-1, Condition 2 Assisted living facilities licensed in accordance with chapter 388-78A WAC and residential treatment facilities as licensed by Washington state under chapter 246-337 WAC shall be permitted to use the allowable number of stories for Group R-2 occupancies. |
504.4.1 Stair enclosure pressurization increase. For Group R-1, R-2, and I-1 Condition 2 Assisted living facilities licensed under chapter 388-78A WAC and residential treatment facilities as licensed by Washington state under chapter 246-337 WAC located in buildings of Type VA construction equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the maximum number of stories permitted in Section 504.4 may be increased by one provided the interior exit stairways and ramps are pressurized in accordance with Sections 909.6.3 and 909.20. Legally required standby power shall be provided in accordance with Sections 909.11 and 2702.2.16 for buildings constructed in compliance with this section and be connected to stairway shaft pressurization equipment, elevators and lifts used for accessible means of egress (if provided), elevator hoistway pressurization equipment (if provided) and other life safety equipment as determined by the authority having jurisdiction. For the purposes of this section, legally required standby power shall comply with 2020 NEC Section 701.12, options (C), (D), (E), (F), (H) or (J) or subsequent revised section number(s).
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 16-03-064, filed 1/19/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-50-0716Section 716—Opening protectives.
((716.5.9))716.2.6.1 Door closing.Fire doors shall be latching and self- or automatic-closing in accordance with this section.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Fire doors located in common walls separating sleeping units in Group R-l shall be permitted without automatic- or self-closing devices. |
| 2. The elevator car doors and the associated hoistway enclosure doors at the floor level designated for recall in accordance with Section 3003.2 shall be permitted to remain open during Phase I emergency recall operation. |
| 3. In Group I-1, Condition 2 Assisted living facilities licensed under chapter 388-78A WAC and residential treatment facilities licensed under chapter 246-337 WAC, fire doors in dwelling and sleeping units opening to the corridor shall be permitted without automatic or self-closing devices when all of the following conditions exist: |
| 3.1 Each floor is constantly attended by staff on a 24-hour basis and stationed on that floor; |
| 3.2 The facility is provided with an NFPA 13 sprinkler system throughout; |
| 3.3 Doors shall be equipped with positive latching; |
| 3.4 Dwelling and sleeping units are not equipped with cooking appliances; |
| 3.5 Dwelling and sleeping units shall be equipped with a smoke detection system interconnected with the smoke detection system required by Section 907.2.6.1. |
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 20-21-021, filed 10/9/20, effective 11/9/20)
WAC 51-50-1107Section 1107—Dwelling units and sleeping units.
1107.5 Group I. Accessible units and Type B units shall be provided in Group I occupancies in accordance with Sections 1107.5.1.1 through 1107.5.1.3.
1107.5.1.1 Accessible units in Group I-1, Condition 1. In Group I-1, Condition 1, at least 4 percent, but not less than one, of the dwelling units and sleeping units shall be accessible units.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. In not more than 50 percent of the accessible units, water closets shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where such water closets comply with Section 1109.2.4. |
| 2. In not more than 50 percent of the accessible units, roll-in-type showers shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where roll-in-type showers comply with Section 1109.2.5. |
1107.5.1.2 Accessible units in Group I-1, Condition 2. In Group I-1, Condition 2, at least 10 percent, but not less than one, of the dwelling units and sleeping units shall be accessible units.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. In not more than 90 percent of the accessible units, water closets shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where such water closets comply with Section 1109.2.4. |
| 2. In not more than 90 percent of the accessible units, roll-in-type showers shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where roll-in-type showers comply with Section 1109.2.5. |
1107.5.4 Group I-2 rehabilitation facilities. In hospitals and rehabilitation facilities of Group I-2 occupancies that specialize in treating conditions that affect mobility, or units within either that specialize in treating conditions that affect mobility, 100 percent of the dwelling units and sleeping units shall be accessible units.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. In not more than 50 percent of the accessible units, water closets shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where such water closets comply with Section 1109.2.4. |
| 2. In not more than 50 percent of the accessible units, roll-in-type showers shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where roll-in-type showers comply with Section 1109.2.5. |
1107.6.2.2.1 Type A units. In Group R-2 Occupancies containing more than 10 dwelling units or sleeping units, at least 5 percent, but not less than one, of the units shall be a Type A unit. All units on a site shall be considered to determine the total number of units and the required number of Type A units. Type A units shall be dispersed among the various classes of units, as described in Section 1107.6. Bedrooms in monasteries and convents shall be counted as sleeping units for the purpose of determining the number of units. Where the sleeping units are grouped into suites, only one sleeping unit in each suite shall count towards the number of required Type A units.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. The number of Type A units is permitted to be reduced in accordance with Section 1107.7. |
| 2. Existing structures on a site shall not contribute to the total number of units on a site. |
1107.5.1 Group I-1. Accessible units and Type B units shall be provided in Group I-1 occupancies in accordance with Sections 1107.5.1.1 through 1107.5.1.3.
1107.5.1.1 Accessible units in Group I-1, Condition 1. In Group I-1, Condition 1, at least 4 percent, but not less than one, of the dwelling units and sleeping units shall be accessible units.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. In not more than 50 percent of the accessible units, water closets shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where such water closets comply with Section 1109.2.2. |
| 2. In not more than 50 percent of the accessible units, roll-in-type showers shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where roll-in-type showers comply with Section 1109.2.3. |
1107.5.1.2 Accessible units in Group I-1, Condition 2. In Group I-1, Condition 2, at least 10 percent, but not less than one, of the dwelling units and sleeping units shall be accessible units.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. In not more than 50 percent of the accessible units, water closets shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where such water closets comply with Section 1109.2.2. |
| 2. In not more than 50 percent of the accessible units, roll-in-type showers shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where roll-in-type showers comply with Section 1109.2.3. |
1107.5.1.3 Type B units. In structures with four or more dwelling units or sleeping units intended to be occupied as a residence, every dwelling unit and sleeping unit intended to be occupied as a residence shall be a Type B unit.
EXCEPTION: | The number of Type B units is permitted to be reduced in accordance with Section 1107.7. |
1107.5.2 Group I-2 nursing homes. Accessible units and Type B units shall be provided in nursing homes of Group I-2, Condition 1 occupancies in accordance with Sections 1107.5.2.1 and 1107.5.2.2.
1107.5.2.1 Accessible units. At least 50 percent but not less than one of each type of the dwelling units and sleeping units shall be accessible units.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. In not more than 90 percent of the accessible units, water closets shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where such water closets comply with Section 1109.2.2. |
| 2. In not more than 90 percent of the accessible units, roll-in-type showers shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where roll-in-type showers comply with Section 1109.2.3. |
1107.5.4 Group I-2 rehabilitation facilities. In hospitals and rehabilitation facilities of Group I-2 occupancies that specialize in treating conditions that affect mobility, or units within either that specialize in treating conditions that affect mobility, 100 percent of the dwelling units and sleeping units shall be accessible units.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. In not more than 50 percent of the accessible units, water closets shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where such water closets comply with Section 1109.2.2. |
| 2. In not more than 50 percent of the accessible units, roll-in-type showers shall not be required to comply with ICC A117.1 where roll-in-type showers comply with Section 1109.2.3. |
1107.6.2.3 Group R-2 other than live/work units, apartment houses, monasteries and convents. In Group R-2 Occupancies, other than live/work units, apartment houses, monasteries and convents falling within the scope of Sections 1107.6.2.1 and 1107.6.2.2, accessible units and Type B units shall be provided in accordance with Sections 1107.6.2.3.1 and 1107.6.2.3.2. Bedrooms within congregate living facilities shall be counted as sleeping units for the purpose of determining the number of units. Where the sleeping units are grouped into suites, only one sleeping unit in each suite shall be permitted to count towards the number of required accessible units. Accessible units shall be dispersed among the various classes of units, as described in Section 1107.6.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 16-03-064, filed 1/19/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-50-1403Section 1403—Performance requirements.
((1403.2))1402.2 Weather protection. Exterior walls shall provide the building with a weather-resistant exterior wall envelope. The exterior wall envelope shall include flashing as described in Section ((1405.4))1404.4. The exterior wall envelope shall be designed and constructed in such a manner as to prevent the accumulation of water within the wall assembly by providing a water-resistant barrier behind the exterior veneer, as described in Section ((1404.2))1403.2, and a means for draining water that enters the assembly to the exterior. An air space cavity is not required under the exterior cladding for an exterior wall clad with lapped or panel siding made of plywood, engineered wood, hardboard, or fiber cement. Protection against condensation in the exterior wall assembly shall be provided in accordance with Section ((1405.3))1404.3.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. A weather-resistant exterior wall envelope shall not be required over concrete or masonry walls designed in accordance with Chapters 19 and 21, respectively. |
| 2. Compliance with the requirements for a means of drainage, and the requirements of Sections 1404.2 and 1405.4, shall not be required for an exterior wall envelope that has been demonstrated through testing to resist wind-driven rain, including joints, penetrations and intersections with dissimilar materials, in accordance with ASTM E 331 under the following conditions: |
| 2.1 Exterior wall envelope test assemblies shall include at least one opening, one control joint, one wall/eave interface and one wall sill. All tested openings and penetrations shall be representative of the intended end-use configuration. |
| 2.2 Exterior wall envelope test assemblies shall be at least 4 feet by 8 feet (1219 mm by 2438 mm) in size. |
| 2.3 Exterior wall envelope assemblies shall be tested at a minimum differential pressure of 6.24 pounds per square foot (psf) (0.297 kN/m2). |
| 2.4 Exterior wall envelope assemblies shall be subjected to a minimum test exposure duration of 2 hours. |
| The exterior wall envelope design shall be considered to resist wind-driven rain where the results of testing indicate that water did not penetrate control joints in the exterior wall envelope, joints at the perimeter of openings or intersections of terminations with dissimilar materials. |
| 3. Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) complying with Section 1408.4.1. |
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 19-02-038, filed 12/26/18, effective 7/1/19)
WAC 51-50-1406((Section 1406—Combustible materials on the exterior sides of exterior walls.))Reserved.
((1406.3 Balconies and similar projections. Balconies and similar projections of combustible construction other than fire-retardant-treated wood shall be fire-resistance-rated where required by Table 601 for floor construction or shall be of Type IV construction in accordance with Section 602.4.4. The aggregate length of the projections shall not exceed 50 percent of the building's perimeter on each floor.))
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 20-21-021, filed 10/9/20, effective 11/9/20)
WAC 51-50-2900Chapter 29—Plumbing systems.
SECTION 2901—GENERAL.
2901.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter and the state plumbing code shall govern the erection, installation, alteration, repairs, relocation, replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of plumbing equipment and systems. Toilet and bathing rooms shall be constructed in accordance with Section 1210. Plumbing systems and equipment shall be constructed, installed and maintained in accordance with the state plumbing code.
2901.2 Health codes. In food preparation, serving and related storage areas, additional fixture requirements may be dictated by health codes.
2901.3 Fixed guideway transit and passenger rail systems. In construction of a fixed guideway and passenger rail system, subject to Section 3114, public plumbing fixtures are not required.
SECTION 2902—MINIMUM PLUMBING FACILITIES.
2902.1 Minimum number of fixtures. Plumbing fixtures shall be provided in the minimum number shown in Table 2902.1. Uses not shown in Table 2902.1 shall be determined individually by the building official based on the occupancy which most nearly resembles the proposed occupancy. The number of occupants shall be determined by this code. Plumbing fixtures need not be provided for unoccupied buildings or facilities.
2902.1.1 Fixture calculations. To determine the occupant load of each sex, the total occupant load shall be divided in half. To determine the required number of fixtures, the fixture ratio or ratios for each fixture type shall be applied to the occupant load of each sex in accordance with Table 2902.1. Fractional numbers resulting from applying the fixture ratios of Table 2902.1 shall be rounded up to the next whole number. For calculations involving multiple occupancies, such fractional numbers for each occupancy shall first be summed and then rounded up to the next whole number.
EXCEPTION: | The total occupant load shall not be required to be divided in half where approved statistical data indicate a distribution of the sexes of other than 50 percent of each sex. |
2902.1.1.1 Private offices. Fixtures only accessible to private offices shall not be counted to determine compliance with this section.
2902.1.1.2 Urinals in men's facilities. Where urinals in men's facilities are provided, one water closet less than the number specified may be provided for each urinal installed, except the number of water closets in such cases shall not be reduced to less than one quarter (25%) of the minimum specified. For men's facilities serving 26 or more persons, not less than one urinal shall be provided.
2902.1.1.3 Urinals. Where urinals are provided in gender-neutral facilities, one water closet less than the number specified may be provided for each urinal installed, except the number of water closets in such cases shall not be reduced less than one quarter (25 percent) of the minimum specified. Facilities serving 26 or more persons, not less than one urinal shall be provided.
2902.1.4 Family or assisted-use toilet and bath fixtures. Fixtures located within family or assisted-use toilet and bathing rooms required by Section 1109.2.1 are permitted to be included in the number of required fixtures for either the male or female occupants in assembly and mercantile occupancies.
2902.2Separate facilities. Where plumbing fixtures are required, separate facilities shall be provided for each sex.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Separate facilities shall not be required for dwelling units and sleeping units. |
| 2. Separate facilities shall not be required in structures or tenant spaces with a total occupant load, including both employees and customers, of 15 or less. |
| 3. Separate facilities shall not be required in mercantile occupancies in which the maximum occupant load is 100 or less. |
| 4. Separate facilities shall not be required in spaces primarily used for drinking or dining with a total occupant load, including both employees and customers, of 30 or fewer. |
| 5. Separate facilities shall not be required when gender-neutral facilities are provided in accordance with Section 2902.2.2. |
2902.2.1Family or assisted-use toilet facilities serving as separate facilities. Where a building or tenant space requires a separate toilet facility for each sex and each toilet facility is required to have only one water closet, two family or assisted-use toilet facilities shall be permitted to serve as the required separate facilities. Family or assisted-use toilet facilities shall not be required to be identified for exclusive use by either sex as required by Section 2902.4.
2902.2.2 Gender-neutral facilities. Gender-neutral toilet facilities, when provided, shall be in accordance with the following:
1. There is no reduction in the number of fixtures required to be provided for male and female in the type of occupancy and in the minimum number shown in Table 2902.1.
2. Gender-neutral multiuser toilet rooms shall have water closets and urinals located in toilet compartments in accordance with ICC A117.1.
3. Gender-neutral multiuser toilet room water closet and urinal compartments shall have full-height walls and a door enclosing the fixture to ensure privacy.
4. Gender-neutral toilet room water closet and urinal compartment doors shall be securable from within the compartment.
5. Gender-neutral toilet rooms provided for the use of multiple occupants, the egress door from the room shall not be lockable from the inside of the room.
6. Compartments shall not be required in a single-occupant toilet room with a lockable door.
2902.3 Employee and public toilet facilities. Customers, patrons and visitors shall be provided with public toilet facilities in structures and tenant spaces intended for public utilization. The number of plumbing fixtures located within the required toilet facilities shall be provided in accordance with Section 2902.1 for all users. Employees shall be provided with toilet facilities in all occupancies. Employee toilet facilities shall either be separate or combined employee and public toilet facilities.
EXCEPTION: | Public toilet facilities shall not be required in: |
| 1. Open or enclosed parking garages where there are no parking attendants. |
| 2. Structures and tenant spaces intended for quick transactions, including takeout, pickup and drop-off, having a public access area less than or equal to 300 square feet (28 m2). |
| 3. Fixed guideway transit and passenger rail systems constructed in accordance with Section 3112. |
((2902.3.2))2902.3.3 Location of toilet facilities in occupancies other than malls. In occupancies other than covered and open mall buildings, the required public and employee toilet facilities shall be located in each building not more than one story above or below the space required to be provided with toilet facilities, or conveniently in a building adjacent thereto on the same property, and the path of travel to such facilities shall not exceed a distance of 500 feet (152 m).
EXCEPTION: | The location and maximum distances of travel to required employee facilities in factory and industrial occupancies are permitted to exceed that required by this section, provided that the location and maximum distance of travel are approved. |
((2902.3.3 Location of toilet facilities in malls. In covered and open mall buildings, the required public and employee toilet facilities shall be located not more than one story above or below the space required to be provided with toilet facilities, and the path of travel to such facilities shall not exceed a distance of 300 feet (91,440 mm). In mall buildings, the required facilities shall be based on total square footage (m2) within a covered mall building or within the perimeter line of an open mall building, and facilities shall be installed in each individual store or in a central toilet area located in accordance with this section. The maximum distance of travel to central toilet facilities in mall buildings shall be measured from the main entrance of any store or tenant space. In mall buildings, where employees' toilet facilities are not provided in the individual store, the maximum distance of travel shall be measured from the employees' work area of the store or tenant space.
2902.3.4 Pay facilities. Where pay facilities are installed, such facilities shall be in excess of the required minimum facilities. Required facilities shall be free of charge.
2902.3.5 Door locking. Where a toilet room is provided for the use of multiple occupants, the egress door for the room shall not be lockable from the inside of the room. This section does not apply to family or assisted-use toilet rooms.
2902.3.6 Prohibited toilet room location. Toilet rooms shall not open directly into a room used for the preparation of food for service to the public.
2902.4 Signage. Required public facilities shall be provided with signs that designate the sex for separate facilities or indicate gender-neutral facilities. Signs shall be readily visible and located near the entrance to each toilet facility. Signs for accessible toilet facilities shall comply with Section 1111.
2902.4.1 Directional signage. Directional signage indicating the route to the public toilet facilities shall be posted in a lobby, corridor, aisle or similar space, such that the sign can be readily seen from the main entrance to the building or tenant space.))
2902.5 Drinking fountain location. Drinking fountains shall not be required to be located in individual tenant spaces provided that public drinking fountains are located within a distance of travel of 500 feet of the most remote location in the tenant space and not more than one story above or below the tenant space. Where the tenant space is in a covered or open mall, such distance shall not exceed 300 feet. Drinking fountains shall be located on an accessible route. Drinking fountains shall not be located in toilet rooms.
2902.5.1 Drinking fountain number. Occupant loads over 30 shall have one drinking fountain for the first 150 occupants, then one per each additional 500 occupants.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Sporting facilities with concessions serving drinks shall have one drinking fountain for each 1000 occupants. |
| 2. A drinking fountain need not be provided in a drinking or dining establishment. |
2902.5.2 Multistory buildings. Drinking fountains shall be provided on each floor having more than 30 occupants in schools, dormitories, auditoriums, theaters, offices and public buildings.
2902.5.3 Penal institutions. Penal institutions shall have one drinking fountain on each cell block floor and one on each exercise floor.
2902.5.4 Bottle filling stations. Bottle filling stations shall be provided in accordance with Sections 2902.5.4.1 through 2902.5.4.3.
2902.5.4.1 Group E occupancies. In Group E occupancies with an occupant load over 30, a minimum of one bottle filling station shall be provided on each floor. This bottle filling station may be integral to a drinking fountain.
2902.5.4.2 Substitution. In all occupancies that require more than two drinking fountains per floor or secured area, bottle filling stations shall be permitted to be substituted for up to 50 percent of the required number of drinking fountains.
2902.5.4.3 Accessibility. At least one of the required bottle filling stations shall be located in accordance with Section 309 ICC A117.1.
((2902.6))2902.7 Dwelling units. Dwelling units shall be provided with a kitchen sink.
((2902.7))2902.8 Water. Each required sink, lavatory, bathtub and shower stall shall be equipped with hot and cold running water necessary for its normal operation.
SECTION 2903—RESERVED.
SECTION 2904—RESERVED.
Table 2902.1
Minimum Number of Required Plumbing Fixturesa
(See Sections 2902.2 and 2902.3)
No. | Classification | Occupancy | Description | Water Closets | Lavatories | Bathtubs/ Showers |
Male | Female | Male | Female |
1 | Assembly | A-1d | Theaters and other buildings for the performing arts and motion pictures | 1 per 125 | 1 per 65 | 1 per 200 | — |
| | A-2d | Nightclubs, bars, taverns, dance halls and buildings for similar purposes | 1 per 40 | 1 per 40 | 1 per 75 | — |
| | | Restaurants, banquet halls and food courts | 1 per 75 | 1 per 75 | 1 per 200 | — |
| | A-3d | Auditoriums without permanent seating, art galleries, exhibition halls, museums, lecture halls, libraries, arcades and gymnasiums | 1 per 125 | 1 per 65 | 1 per 200 | — |
| | | Passenger terminals and transportation facilities | 1 per 500 | 1 per 500 | 1 per 750 | — |
| | | Places of worship and other religious services | 1 per 150 | 1 per 75 | 1 per 200 | — |
| | A-4 | Coliseums, arenas, skating rinks, pools, and tennis courts for indoor sporting events and activities | 1 per 75 for first 1,500 and 1 per 120 for remainder exceeding 1,500 | 1 per 40 for first 1,520 and 1 per 60 for remainder exceeding 1,520 | 1 per 200 | 1 per 150 | — |
| | A-5 | Stadiums amusement parks, bleachers and grandstands for outdoor sporting events and activities | 1 per 75 for first 1,500 and 1 per 120 for remainder exceeding 1,500 | 1 per 40 for first 1,520 and 1 per 60 for remainder exceeding 1,520 | 1 per 200 | 1 per 150 | — |
2 | Business | B | Buildings for the transaction of business, professional services, other services involving merchandise, office buildings, banks, light industrial and similar uses | 1 per 25 for first 50 and 1 per 50 for the remainder exceeding 50 | 1 per 40 for first 80 and 1 per 80 for remainder exceeding 80 | — |
3 | Educational | Ee | Educational facilities | 1 per 35 | 1 per 25 | 1 per 85 | 1 per 50 | — |
4 | Factory and industrial | F-1 and F-2 | Structures in which occupants are engaged in work fabricating, assembly or processing of products or materials | 1 per 100 | 1 per 100 | Check State (UPC) |
5 | Institutional | I-1 | Residential care | 1 per 10 | 1 per 10 | 1 per 8 |
| | I-2 | Hospitals, ambulatory nursing home care recipientb | 1 per roomc | 1 per roomc | 1 per 15 |
| | | Employees, other than residential careb | 1 per 25 | 1 per 35 | — |
| | | Visitors other than residential care | 1 per 75 | 1 per 100 | — |
| | I-3 | Prisonsb | 1 per cell | 1 per cell | 1 per 15 |
| | | Reformatories, detention centers and correctional centersb | 1 per 15 | 1 per 15 | 1 per 15 |
| | | Employeesb | 1 per 25 | 1 per 35 | — |
| | I-4 | Adult day care and child day care | 1 per 15 | 1 per 15 | 1 |
6 | Mercantile | M | Retail stores, service stations, shops, salesrooms, markets and shopping centers | 1 per 500 | 1 per 750 | — |
7 | Residential | R-1 | Hotels, motels, boarding houses (transient) | 1 per sleeping unit | 1 per sleeping unit | 1 per sleeping unit |
| | R-2 | Dormitories, fraternities, sororities and boarding houses (not transient) | 1 per 10 | 1 per 10 | 1 per 8 |
| | | Apartment house | 1 per dwelling unit | 1 per dwelling unit | 1 per dwelling unit |
| | R-3 | One- and two-family dwellings | 1 per dwelling unit | 1 per 10 | 1 per dwelling unit |
| | | Congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer persons | 1 per 10 | 1 per 10 | 1 per 8 |
| | R-4 | Congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer persons | 1 per 10 | 1 per 10 | 1 per 8 |
8 | Storage | S-1 S-2 | Structures for the storage of goods, warehouses, storehouses and freight depots, low and moderate hazard | 1 per 100 | 1 per 100 | Check State (UPC) |
a. | The fixtures shown are based on one fixture being the minimum required for the number of persons indicated or any fraction of the number of persons indicated. The number of occupants shall be determined by this code, except with respect to Group E occupancies the provisions of note "e" shall apply. |
b. | Toilet facilities for employees shall be separate from facilities for inmates or care recipients. |
c. | A single-occupant toilet room with one water closet and one lavatory serving not more than two adjacent patient sleeping units shall be permitted where such room is provided with direct access from each patient sleeping unit and with provisions for privacy. |
d. | The occupant load for seasonal outdoor seating and entertainment areas shall be included when determining the minimum number of facilities required. |
e. | For Group E occupancies: The number of occupants shall be determined by using a calculation of 100 square feet gross building area per student for the minimum number of plumbing fixtures. |
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 20-01-090, filed 12/12/19, effective 7/1/20)
WAC 51-50-3304Section 3304—Site work.
((3304.5.1))3304.2 Fire watch during construction. Where required by the fire code official, a fire watch shall be provided during nonworking hours for new construction that exceeds 40 feet (12,192 mm) in height above the lowest adjacent grade.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. New construction that is built under the IRC. |
| 2. New construction less than 5 stories and 50,000 square feet per story. |
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-50-480810Energy conservation.
810.1 Minimum requirements. Level 2 alterations to existing buildings or structures shall comply with the Washington State Energy Code (chapter 51-11C WAC).
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 13-04-067, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-50-480811((Energy conservation.))Reserved.
((811.1 Minimum requirements. Level 2 alterations to existing buildings or structures shall comply with the Washington State Energy Code (chapter 51-11 WAC).))
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 20-01-090, filed 12/12/19, effective 7/1/20)
WAC 51-50-480907((Reserved.))Energy conservation.
907.1 Minimum requirements. Level 3 alterations to existing buildings or structures shall comply with the Washington State Energy Code (chapter 51-11C WAC).
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 13-04-067, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-50-480908((Energy conservation.))Reserved.
((908.1 Minimum requirements. Level 3 alterations to existing buildings or structures shall comply with the Washington State Energy Code (chapter 51-11 WAC).))