Building Codes and Regulations
The City of Vancouver adopted Codes
Anticipated adoption of the 2021 Washington State Energy Code is March 15, 2024.
2018 I-Codes with Washington Amendments, effective 02/01/2021
2020 NEC, National Electrical Code, effective 10/29/2020
Resources: Highlights of the NEC 2020 Changes – WA State Labor and Industries 2020 NEC Amendments
- 2018 International Building Code (IBC) w/ WAC 51-50
- 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) w/ WAC 51-51
- 2018 International Existing Building Code w/ WAC 51-50-480000
- 2018 International Mechanical Code w/ WAC 51-52
- 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code w/ WAC 51-56
- 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
- 2018 Washington State Energy Codes WAC 51-11
- 2018 International Fuel Gas Code w/ WAC 51-52-21000
- 2018 International Fire Code w/ WAC 51-54A
- ICC/ANSI A117.1-2009 Accessibility w/ WAC 51-50-1101.2
- Vancouver Municipal Code Title 17
- Washington State Water Conservation Code
- ASCE/SEI 7-16 Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures
The Washington State Building Code is comprised of the model code editions listed with the Washington State Amendments, which may be downloaded from the Washington State Building Code Council (sbcc.wa.gov)
Energy Code Forms and Information
The 2018 Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) is currently in effect as of February 1, 2021.
Anticipated adoption of the 2021 Washington State Energy Code is now March 15, 2024. On September 15, 2023, the State Building Code Council agreed on another delay.
Commercial
2018 Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) Commercial Provisions
Note that Commercial Provisions apply to all commercial occupancies, Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies greater than 3 stories above grade, and Group R-1 (all building heights). Further, compliance with the Energy Code is required throughout WA State for all new construction, additions, and retrofits.
The WSEC is significantly more stringent than the IECC and requires additional efficiency design elements for compliance.
The online compliance documentation webtool printout should be submitted with your building, electrical, or mechanical permit to show compliance with the code provisions that apply to the project and the design measures taken to comply with these provisions. Please note that the COMcheck is not permitted due to the Washington Amendments.
Residential
2018 WSEC Residential Provisions
New to the Energy Code? There are many resources available through the WSU Energy Program.
Residential codes encourage a more efficient use of energy through leak and blower door testing, duct sealing, higher insulation values, indoor and outdoor lighting fixture efficacy requirements, and compliance of all space-conditioning systems, which includes air handlers, outdoor condensing units of a split system air conditioner or heat pump, cooling or heating coil or furnace exchanger.
Forms may also be downloaded from the WSU Energy Program.
New construction and additions require the following forms:
- Prescriptive Worksheet
- Glazing Schedule
- Heating System Sizing Worksheet
Remodels and alterations require the Alterations (Remodel) Worksheet.
Duct Testing: This applies to all Single Family, Mechanical or Residential permits where a furnace or air conditioner is added or replaced. Duct testing is required and test affidavit must be submitted to the City, (see forms below), prior to final approval.
Please email completed test affidavits to inspections@cityofvancouver.us or fax to 360-487-7801.