Construction Codes

The City of Burien will begin using a new set of codes for permit applications with Washington State law for permit applications received starting on March 14, 2024. Plans and supporting documentation must demonstrate compliance with the new 2021 codes. 

  • 2021 International Building Code (IBC) – WAC 51-50
  • 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) – WAC 51-51
  • 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC) – WAC 51-52
  • 2021 NFPA 54, National Fuel Gas Code (NFGC) – WAC 51-52
  • 2020 Edition of NFPA 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code (LPGC) – WAC 51-52
  • 2021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) - WAC 51-52
  • 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) – WAC 51-54
  • 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code & Standards (UPC) – WAC 51–56 
  • 2021 Washington State Energy Code – WAC 51-11A, C, & R 
  • Burien Electrical Code (BEC) – BMC 15.10.140
  • Burien Building and Property Maintenance Code – BMC 15.40

Where can I view/purchase these codes?

A variety of sources to purchase these codes are available online including the Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO) bookstore. Copies of the codes are always available for viewing at Burien City Hall. Also, many local libraries keep copies of current "standard codes" (though these may not include local amendments).

A free version of the international codes can be viewed on the International Code Council’s website

Where can I view code amendments?

Washington State code amendments can be downloaded for free on the Washington State Building Code Council website. Click on "State Building Codes" and scroll down to select the code format you're interested in. State amendments are also available for purchase in hard copy through the WABO bookstoreCity of Burien amendments are currently available for free online. 

Burien Construction Administrative Code - BMC 15.05

  • Chapter 15.05 BMC replaced chapter one (Administration) of the IBC, IRC, IMC, IFGC, and UPC, and provides administrative provisions for the NFGC, LPGC, WSEC, and Burien Electrical Code.)

Burien Construction Codes - BMC 15.10

  • Sound and hours of construction – BMC 15.10.030 International Building Code (IBC) - BMC 15.10.060
  • International Residential Code (IRC) - BMC 15.10.070
  • International Mechanical code (IMC) – BMC 15.10.080
  • National Fuel Gas Code (NFGC) (NFPA 54) – BMC 15.10.090
  • Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code (LPGC) (NFPA 58) – BMC 15.10.100
  • International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) – BMC 15.10.110
  • Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) – BMC 15.10.120
  • Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) - BMC 15.10.130
  • Burien Electrical Code adopted (BEC) – BMC 15.10.140

Airport Noise Reduction – BMC 15.12

Burien Fire Code (IFC) – BMC 15.20 

Burien Building & Property Maintenance Code (BPMC) – BMC 15.40 

Burien Flood Damage Prevention - BMC 15.55 

Is there training available?

Yes! The WABO "Education" website and International Code Council (ICC) "Training" website are good sources of information. You can also go to mybuildingpermit.com and click on "Resources" for the most current code-related news.

Please take advantage of training opportunities available and purchase/reference the current code books and amendments that will affect your project(s). If you have any questions or concerns along the way, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are happy to be of assistance!

2021 Washington State Energy Code

Implementation of the 2021 Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) takes effect on March 14, 2024.

Commercial and residential structures will see new changes in how their energy is used. Significant changes will occur in space-conditioning systems, insulation, and lighting. Specifics on residential changes may be found at WSU Energy Extension Program and commercial details may be found at Washington State Energy Code

Residential codes will 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.

Updated December 28, 2023