International Building Code

The 2009 International Building Code, incorporated by reference into the Washington State Building Code (WAC 51-50). Establishes minimum requirements for building systems through prescriptive and performance provisions.

International Building Code (2009)

Washington's State Building Code Council adopted the 2009 IBC as WAC 51-50, effective July 1, 2010, for buildings other than detached one- and two-family dwellings. The full text below is reproduced from the 2009 edition as incorporated into law, sourced from public.resource.org; Washington applies state amendments on top. It covers how buildings are classified, sized, and made safe to occupy.

Where verbatim source text is shown, it is reproduced from the code as adopted into law by the jurisdiction, sourced from public.resource.org under the government edicts doctrine (see Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, Inc., 590 U.S. 255 (2020)). This material reflects enacted law and is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and may not reflect local amendments or the most recently adopted edition. Always verify requirements with the authority having jurisdiction.