Washington State Association of Fire Marshals News

DNR Wildfire Risk Maps and WUI - Review the DNR Maps Now

Karen Grove — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:57:18 GMT

DNR is releasing their new wildfire risk map, and local governments will be required to use the map, or maps generated with substantially similar criteria, to enforce RCW 19.27.560 or your own locally adopted WUI. Further, enforcement will only be allowed for parcels in areas identified as high hazard and very high hazard on the DNR map. This requirement takes effect six months after the DNR maps are finalized. WSAFM members are encouraged to review the draft map and assess how it will work at your permit counter, and provide comments to DNR. We have also been providing updates about this process throughout 2025 in our weekly email newsletters. Find the draft map, the schedule for DNR listening sessions, and more information in the WUI section of our Fire Marshal's Toolkit.

2024 Codes Adoption Date in Washington

Karen Grove — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 20:38:42 GMT

On January 23, 2026, the SBCC voted to have 2024 codes implementation on Monday, May 3, 2027.

2026 State Legislative Process

Karen Grove — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 17:29:32 GMT

The 2026 Legislative Session began the second Monday in January. This is a "short" 60 day session as it is the second year of the biennium. You can see WSAFM's positions on bill we are tracking by reviewing our weekly bill tracker on our legislative advocacy page.

WSAFM's legislative priorities guide our advocacy. These priorities were proposed by the Legislative Committee, reviewed and commented on by WSAFM membership, and approved by the WSAFM Board. Weekly bill trackers will be provided on this page as we move through session.

Please send feedback or volunteer to testify for the association: wsafm@wsafm.com.

Building Fire Access SBCC Emergency Rule Request

Karen Grove — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 20:40:02 GMT

Last April, WSAFM submitted an emergency rule to the State Building Code Council. The issue pertains to the increase in density of single family lots to address the “housing crisis”. In particular, in the number of dwelling units on a single family lot are increasing and lot widths are being reduced to optimize the property as much as possible. This has resulted in an unintended circumstance as distances between structures and property lines can be as small as 3 feet. This width needs to support access to units at the center of the property, which results in access doors being located on the side of buildings that do not face the street or alley. 3 feet is not enough space to properly remove a patient in a gurney or put up ladders for rescue or rooftop venting.

The proposal requests a minimum 5 foot clearance between the building and property line where building access is on the side. The distance is reduced to 4 feet if the building has fire sprinklers. The logic here is that fire operations would not be as significant for a building that has fire sprinklers.

The SBCC introduced the proposal at the July 25^th meeting. SBCC directed the proposal be forwarded to the BFRW Committee for further consideration.

The SBCC then directed that the proposal be forwarded to the BFRW Committee for consideration to revise the language and be brought back to the Council. The BFRW recommended a Special Council Committee be formed.

This was returned to the SBCC for consideration at their September 26^th meeting. The Council voted to create a Special Council Committee. Dan Young is the chair of this committee.

The committee met for the first time on October 24th. As of now, it appears this proposal will not make it into the 2024 code cycle but will be further pursued for inclusion in the 2027 code cycle.

As this progresses, we will provide updates.

DNR Mapping Update

Karen Grove — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 19:41:29 GMT

DNR WUI Wildfire Hazard and Risk Mapping Steering Committee

To comply with the requirements of SB 6120 of the 2024 Legislative session, DNR established the WUI Hazard and Risk Mapping Steering Committee. Two Fire Marshal positions were included. Representing Cities is Dave Kokot from the City of Spokane and representing Counties is Randy Collings from Mason County. The Committee has met several times with the goal to complete the maps by the end of 2025.

To date, there has been a considerable amount of discussion about how the maps could be used, and it has become clear that the maps are more oriented towards a fire response and not any specific designation of a wildland urban interface. The existing WUI map that DNR previously produced is not part of this effort. The hazard and risk mapping is going to be a single GIS map with multiple layers. The data used for the layers is based on the fire return interval (50 years very high, 100 years high), flame height (4’ is currently being evaluated), and considering risk based on likelihood, intensity, and consequences of wildfires to specific values such as people, property, agriculture and forests. The map density looks to be on scale (100-300 meter blocks) that will not be done by parcel (which is a concern). It is anticipated that the hazard/risk map will be updated on a 3-4 year cycle.

There are a number of unknowns still at this time. In particular, how local jurisdictions will be able to edit or communicate changes to their areas.

The Committee also looked at the Oregon mapping that was recently done. Their end goal was very similar to our goal, but it was tabled right after it was announced. They indicated 6 takeaways that the Committee also has concerns about:

Public outreach/trust
Mismatch of scales to other maps
No input of local land types or local knowledge
Confusing appeals process
No credit for mitigation
Implications to insurance rates

One question that did come up is whether or not these meetings are considered public. The participation so far has been only DNR and the Committee members. There was not a clear response to that question.

We have had a few presentations of what existing jurisdictions have done for their mapping efforts. It has become obvious that the directive to use the DNR maps may override the local mapping, which has become an item of concern from the Committee, but that is the language of the bill.

The meetings will continue and a final map will be provided. The usefulness for the WUI is definitely in question as some Committee members are seeing us follow in the footsteps of Oregon. As this progresses, we will provide more updates.

Draft 2026 Legislative Priorities for WSAFM Membership Review

Karen Grove — Sat, 15 Nov 2025 17:35:45 GMT

The WSAFM Board and Legislative Committee are requesting membership input on our draft priorities for the State legislative session. These priorities will guide our advocacy on your behalf during the 2026 session in Olympia. Please provide feedback to Legislative Chair Karen Grove karen.grove@seattle.gov, by December 8, 2025. Thank you for your input and be safe.

2025 State Legislative Session Update

Karen Grove — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 17:50:24 GMT

We are now roughly halfway through the 2025 Legislative Session. WSAFM’s Legislative Committee has been monitoring and advocating on many bills, by providing written, virtual and in person testimony at hearings, and working with WABO, AWC, WFC and other partners. Two important cut offs are now behind us, with a third occurring this week. As a result, we have more clarity on bills that are moving forward this year and which are "dead". Given the projected budget deficit, bills with large fiscal notes have had a harder time moving than those with little or no fiscal impact.

Bills that are moving forward include several bills that WSAFM supported and some that we have concerns about. Our advocacy has had a positive impact this year, thank you to our Legislative Committee, our lobbyist, and the input from WSAFM membership.

Below is a summary of some key items of interest. Click here for links to bill text and latest status: Washington State Legislature

Moving, WSAFM is supporting: HB 1628 Fire Service Policy Board, SB 5419/HB 1793 Fire Loss Data to OIC, HB 1539 OIC/DNR wildfire mitigation and resiliency standards work group, HB 1550/SB 5586 Electric vehicle batteries

Moving, WSAFM has concerns or is opposed: HB 1183/SB 5156 Smaller elevator sizes in R-2s up to 6 stories/24 units, HB 1757 Conversion to Residential, HB 1443 Mobile dwellings

Appear to not be moving, however WSAFM had supported: HB 1571 Occupational disease/heart, SB 5624 Electric vehicle fires (follow on to 2024’s SB 5812 study and recommendations)

Appear to not be moving, WSAFM had concerns with the legislation: HB 1654 Enforcement of the International Fire Code, SB 5429 SBCC Membership, HB 1254 WUI

The Washington State Association of Fire Marshals priorities and legislative tracker are available on our Legislative Resources page.

WUI Updates - DNR Wildfire Risk Maps, New HB 1254

Karen Grove — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 22:03:58 GMT

New Bill on WUI Code HB 1254

A bill has been introduced that would more or less undo SB 6120 from last year, and lead to a more typical situation where SBCC could adopt the WUI with State amendments for all of WA. Currently with SB 6120, only RCW 19.27.560 applies statewide, however local jurisdictions can adopt the full international WUI code if they want. Please let WSAFM know if you have comments.

DNR Wildfire Risk Mapping Process Preview

DNR is convening a steering committee to spend the next 16 months creating wildfire risk maps in response to SB 6120. WSAFM will have two seats on the steering committee, one representing counties and one representing cities. Please see this slide deck for more information.

SSB 5812 Best Practices for EV Fire Response - Report to Legislature

Karen Grove — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 20:26:59 GMT

In 2024, WSAFM testified in favor a SSB 5812 that directed the State Fire Marshal’s Office to convene an expert working group and report to the legislature regarding fire fighter safety and training in response to EV fires, as well as best practices for the tow industry and protecting the environment.

The resulting "Electric Vehicle Fires Study" has now been submitted to the legislature. It contains several recommendations, summarized below, with a total cost of approximately $9m. While the full ask may not receive funding, this is an important step forward in state-wide preparations for EV fires and fire fighter and community safety.

Recommendations:

Establish a training program in the State FMO and disseminate a list of free and no-cost national training options to all agencies in WA by Sept 2025 to ensure all FF's receive training.
Develop an interagency checklist to guide EV fire responses including hazmat implications.
Disseminate information on national best science regarding appropriate PPE for these fires: SCBA , particulate hoods, and turn out gear, decontamination.
Provide one-time funding to help small, rural and volunteer fire agencies to purchase particulate hoods and respiratory protection, as well as recommendation for a replacement funding strategy.
Provide training and PPE to tow industry and WSP.
Strengthen notification procedures between first responders and Ecology regarding hazmat; and recommendations for further efforts related to understanding impacts on human health, environment, and clean up responsibilities.

WSAFM participated on the expert working group, which also included fire operations personnel from several departments, tow industry, and representatives from State Ecology and Commerce. The result is a high-quality and relevant set of recommendations for WA grounded in the best national practices and science.

Member Input - 2025 State Legislative Priorities

Karen Grove — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 18:53:32 GMT

WSAFM’s Legislative Committee is seeking member input for our 2025 State Legislative Priorities. The draft priorities are available here: Washington State Association of Fire Marshals - Legislative Resources. To provide input please email your comments to Legislative Chair Karen.Grove@seattle.gov. As required by the State Constitution, the session will begin the second Monday of January. Because 2025 is the start of a biennium, this session will run for 105-days.

2021 IFC Open-flame cooking devices

Dave Kokot — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 21:51:50 GMT

On March 15th, the State Building Code Council (SBCC) took emergency action to remove an error to the State amendments of the 2021 International Fire Code. Section 308.1.4, Open-flame cooking devices, has not been adopted by the State since the adoption of the International Codes. The amendment was inadvertently removed from the published code. The action of the SBCC has reinstated the amendment that IFC 308.1.4 is NOT ADOPTED. If you have any questions, please contact Dave Kokot (dkokot@wsafm.com).

SB 6120 and Emergency Rule Affecting State WUI Code and DNR Map

Karen Grove — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:37:42 GMT

SB 6120 modified laws in Washington related to the Wildland Urban Interface Code (WUIC). SB 6120 included emergency provisions and will take effect upon the Governor’s signature, which is expected to occur in mid-March 2024. In order to start or continue enforcing the WUIC after this emergency rule takes effect, local jurisdictions should be aware of implementation recommendations from WSAFM.

Call to Action - Don't Exempt Multiplexes from IBC Fire Safety Requirements

Karen Grove — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 16:07:21 GMT

Fellow Fire Marshals,

The Washington State Association of Fire Marshals (WSAFM) needs you to contact your legislator or your municipality’s lobbyist to ask for an amendment to be added to HB2071.

HB2071, as it is currently written, will exempt multiplex housing from the IBC and lessen the likelihood that sprinklers and other fire protection systems will be provided. The end goal of the legislation is to find ways to build multiplexes more affordably. The legislation states: “Allowing middle and multiplex housing to be built according to the standards of the international residential code will result in housing being easier to build and more affordable without sacrificing quality and safety. Therefore, the legislature intends to simplify the production of middle and multiplex housing by allowing more types of housing to use provisions of the international residential code.”

The legislation creates a Technical Advisory Group (TAG) for the purpose of recommending the additions or amendments to rules or codes that are necessary for the council to apply the Washington state residential code to multiplex housing. The legislation goes on to say that the TAG “must consider the life safety systems…….” WSAFM strongly believes that the language “must consider” needs to be replaced with “will include”.

To find your legislative representation you can search here: https://app.leg.wa.gov/Rosters/Members/House

House Bill 2071 Information

Timeline: Let us know by Friday 2/7 if you are willing to get involved. WSAFM’s lobbyist is more than willing to assist you in your efforts. Contact Bryan McConaughy via e-mail at bryan@bmcconsulting.net and cc WSAFM Legislative Leads Dave Kokot dkokot@wsafm.com or Karen Grove karen.grove@seattle.gov.

Yours in service,

The Washington State Association of Fire Marshals

WUI Code Amendments

Karen Grove — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 01:34:08 GMT

On November 17, the SBCC approved amendments to the WUI code that weaken or remove defensible space requirements and ask local jurisdictions to adopt their own map (the DNR map would no longer be referenced). WSAFM has concerns and provided an official letter to the SBCC. Defensible space is a national best practice and proven code strategy to reduce death and property loss from wildfire. WSAFM feels the SBCC exceptions go too far in Chapter 6, particularly for jurisdictions in the eastern, drier part of the state. In addition, WSAFM is concerned that the SBCC is creating an unfunded mandate for local jurisdictions by removing the DNR map (SBCC amendments to Chapter 3). WSAFM would rather see the DNR map improved with more local flexibility rather than require all local jurisdictions to create and maintain their own maps.

WSAFM's official comment is here: WSAFM WUI Position Paper

The proposed Draft Language from the SBCC is here: Microsoft Word - Defensible Space Proposal Council Decision Nov 17 (wa.gov)

Please contact Dave Kokot with comments or feedback at dkokot@wsafm.com.

Draft Legislative Priorities for 2024 State Session

Karen Grove — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:31:11 GMT

The 2024 Legislative Session begins on Monday, January 8, 2024, and will run for a short 60 days. The Washington State Association of Fire Marshals Legislative Committee has established draft priorities for the 2024 session. We are requesting feedback from the membership through December 1, 2023. Please email karen.grove@seattle.gov or dkokot@wsafm.com with comments or suggestions.

State Fire Marshal's Office Fire Service Delivery Workgroup Meeting

Dave Kokot — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 15:48:05 GMT

- A meeting of the Fire Service Delivery Workgroup is scheduled for Tuesday, September 26, 2023 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Lacey Fire District’s Training and Education Center in Lacey, Washington. WSAFM is not a member of the Workgroup, but is requested to provide testimony as a stakeholder. We are looking for comments and suggestions to be included in our testimony to the Workgroup.  Members interested in providing testimony information are requested to contact Dave Kokot at dkokot@wsafm.com.
  
  The Fire Service Delivery Workgroup was established by the 2023 Operating Budget. The workgroup’s purpose is to evaluate the existing funding and service delivery models of fire service functions (currently provided by the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office) including, but not limited to:
  
  a)      Fire service training and certifications;
  
  b)      Apprenticeships;
  
  c)      Risk mobilization;
  
  d)      Fire prevention;
  
  e)      Inspections and plan review;
  
  f)       Data collection;
  
  g)      Building codes and fire sprinkler and monitoring systems; and
  
  h)      Fireworks and fire safe cigarettes.
  
  They are seeking statewide stakeholder input. To that end, we will be providing the following:
  1. How we interact with the Office of the State Fire Marshal
  2. Most important challenges our organization faces regarding fire service funding, or fire service delivery
  3. Recommendations to improve those concerns
  The Fire Service Delivery Workgroup must report its findings and recommendations for the future delivery of these functions to the Legislature and the Governor by December 1, 2023.

Pre-Implementation of NFPA 855 (2023) and 2024 IFC Provisions Related to Energy Storage Systems, Lithium-Ion Batteries, and Micromobility Devices

Karen Grove — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 16:42:03 GMT

The State Building Code Council of Washington State (SBCC) has extended a previously approved emergency rule to allow fire code officials to utilize the 2023 edition of NFPA 855 for the Installation of Energy Storage Systems. This emergency rule had support from regulatory agencies and industry when it was first introduced in November of 2022 to the SBCC. The existing emergency rule expired in May of 2023 and with the delay of the implementation of the 2021 Washington State Codes it was necessary to create an extension.

An amended Chapter 12 of the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) was also approved by the SBCC for Off-Cycle Rule making. This chapter is particularly relevant for the installation and maintenance of batteries and energy storage systems (ESS). The proposed changes bring forward the latest code language from the 2024 IFC into the Washington State 2021 Fire Code.

The 2021 WA State Fire Code also has two new sections addressing Lithium-ion batteries and powered mobility devices such as electric scooters and bikes. Section 322 Lithium-Ion and Lithium Metal Batteries and section 323 Powered Micromobility Devices and Powered Industrial Trucks were developed to help address the hazards associated with the use of lithium-ion batteries. The new code language is from the 2024 IFC (International Fire Code) and was brought forward early in Washington State to assist in regulating this industry. The first printing of the State’s insert pages are a good source for Chapter 3 modifications. The 2021 Washington Fire Code with these amendments is expected to take effect no earlier than October 29, 2023.

Revised Effective Date for 2021 Codes and First Printing of Insert Pages

Karen Grove — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 22:22:36 GMT

The State Building Code Council (SBCC) voted on May 24, 2023, to delay the effective date of the 2021 codes until October 29, 2023 (120 days). The SBCC also created to Technical Advisory Groups to consider stakeholder proposals on sections of the commercial and energy codes. Possible modifications are being considered as a result of legal uncertainty stemming from the decision in California Restaurant Association v. City of Berkeley.

The first printing of insert pages showing WA amendments to the 2021 IFC is available here: www.sbcc.wa.gov/state-codes-regulations-guidelines/state-building-code/fire-code-amendments.

Emergency Rule Making Regarding Battery Energy Storage Systems (January 20, 2023)

Karen Grove — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 20:48:16 GMT

The SBCC recently passed an emergency amendment to the 2018 Fire Code to bring forward additional provisions available in the 2021 code related to requirements for battery energy storage systems. This amendment provides local AHJs additional safety provisions at time of permitting and installation -- provisions that are included in the 2021 codes but not available under the 2018 code.

These changes (shown in underline below) will take effect following the publication by the State’s Code Reviser’s office (early February):

1201.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the installation, operation and maintenance of energy systems used for generating or storing energy. It shall not apply to equipment associated with the generation, control, transformation, transmission, or distribution of energy installations that is under the exclusive control of an electric utility or lawfully designated agency. Energy storage systems regulated by Section 1206 shall comply with this chapter as appropriate and NFPA 855.

Chapter 80 REFERENCED STANDARDS

NFPA 855-23 Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems

1201.1

WUI Code Adopted in Washington

Karen Grove — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 20:42:56 GMT

On Friday 11/18/2022, the SBCC passed the first Washington WUI Code! The new WUI Code will go into effect along with the other State codes on July 1, 2023 [now delayed to 10/29/2023 along with the suite of constrution codes including the fire code]. The code is based on the International WUI Code and is amended by the State to require all jurisdictions to implement all of the requirements of RCW 19.27.560 within the framework of the model code published by ICC.

As adopted by the state, the minimum requirements are those found in RCW 19.27.560 and findings of fact are per the DNR wildland interface map. Additional amendments allow local jurisdictions to refine findings of fact in addition to the DNR map. Furthermore, other ignition resistant construction classifications may be proposed by applicants based on an assessment of risk presented by applicants and reviewed by local jurisdictions. The code amendments approved by the SBCC were largely developed by the WASFM / WABO working group. This is a good example of the fire marshals and building officials collaborating to move an important new code forward in Washington State. For more information about the amendments and steps to take to implement the new code please see: Washington State Association of Fire Marshals - State Codes (wsafm.com)

Thank you to Traci Harvey (Spokane Valley), Dave Kokot (Spokane), Mark Jung (Kirkland), and many others who contributed to this important fire prevention work in Washington.

Effective Date for 2021 WA Fire Code and Other Building Codes

Karen Grove — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 22:11:25 GMT

Throughout the summer there have been proposals submitted to the State Building Code Council asking to defer the effective date of the 2021 Building Codes including the Fire Code in Washington State. Most recently on 10/21/2022 the SBCC considered two proposals that would have moved the effective date to November 2023 or December 2023. However, those proposals were not approved. The effective date for the 2021 Building Codes including the Fire Code remains 7/1/2023.

Notice of Proposed Rules/Comment Period: Fire Sprinkler Contractors and Fitting

Karen Grove — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 22:56:02 GMT

The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office is inviting WSAFM members to provide comment on proposed amendments to WSR 22-19-071 (CR-102) on fire protection sprinkler system contractors and fitting.

PUBLIC COMMENT: Please send your comments to wsprules@wsp.wa.gov by October 21, 2022.

PUBLIC HEARING: October 25, 2022 at 9:30am

Join Zoom Meeting (no physical location for this meeting):

https://zoom.us/j/93685037858?pwd=YUcxTU0zTnUxVTBrMkZNUDA1S20wZz09

Call-in 1-253-215-8782 Meeting ID: 936 8503 7858 Passcode: 552488

Sponsorship Available to Attend 2022 FPI - Due 9/16

Karen Grove — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 19:13:30 GMT

The Washington Surveying and Rating Bureau (WSRB) is sponsoring a registration for the 2022 Fire Prevention Institute to be held October 17^th through October 21^st. This does not include the costs for the room or transportation.

The intent of the sponsorship is to help with the costs for participation by an individual who is not able to participate due to financial limitations.

To submit for this registration, please provide a letter of interest with supportive reasoning for the need to participate in the FPI. Send the letter to dkokot@wsafm.com no later than September 16^th. Submissions will be reviewed and the successful recipient will be notified by September 20^th to allow sufficient time to obtain a room reservation.

If there are any questions, please contact Dave Kokot at dkokot@wsafm.com.

WSAFM greatly appreciates the generosity of WSRB with this sponsorship.

Wildland Urban Interface Code Updates

Karen Grove — Tue, 28 Jun 2022 23:19:27 GMT

The State Building Code Council (SBCC) currently has a Technical Advisory Group (TAG) working on amendments to the WUI code for the 2021 code cycle. Among other things, the amendments offer more flexible framework based on site and construction specifics as an alternative to the straight requirements in RCW 19.27.560. WSAFM has been represented in this work.

What should I do to get ready to implement WUI?

WSAFM recommends that fire marshals and their staff become familiar the provisions in RCW 19.27.560 and the anticipated amendments to the WUI code being worked on by the SBCC.

Browse the new WUI map for your region.
Review RCW 19.27.560 "International Wildland Urban Interface Code.
Talk with the building code official in your agency about implementation. WSAFM is aware that in some agencies, the building code official is taking the lead on review and permitting related to WUI provisions, while in other agencies, the fire code official is leading review and enforcement.

2018 Fire Code and Resources for Food Truck Inspections

Karen Grove — Wed, 21 Jul 2021 00:43:01 GMT

Section 319 of the 2018 Washington State Fire Code establishes new provisions for mobile food preparation vehicles or “food trucks”. Section 105.6 provides for permits for these vehicles.

To respond to these new code sections, several jurisdictions have created a standard food truck inspection checklist and agreed to recognize inspections conducted by other participating jurisdictions. Some participating jurisdictions are also offering a discount on the food truck permit if another agency performs the required inspection. Local jurisdictions retain the sole right to permit and revoke food truck permits within their boundaries, and to conduct additional inspections within their boundaries. The program’s intent is to streamline the inspection requirements as a customer service to food trucks that operate in multiple locations, and to provide a best practice checklist and opportunity for efficiencies to local Fire Marshals and fire agencies.

To join the group of participating jurisdictions and accept valid inspections conducted by another participating jurisdiction, please contact past WSAFM Board Member Anjela Barton at abarton@rentonrfa.org , or current WSAFM Board Member Karen Grove at karen.grove@seattle.gov . Any fire agency in Washington is welcome to join. Whether or not you accept reciprocal inspections, you are welcome to download and use the checklist, which has also been translated into top tier languages.

Materials for download:

Regional food truck inspection checklist | 繁體中文建築安全和消防執行法規 | Español | Af-Soomaali | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | አማርኛ | Tagalog | ภาษาไทย | 日本語
Information Sheet: Regional Food Truck Inspection Program This Word document may be customized with your own logo and information.

Mobile Fueling and the 2018 Code - News and Tools from WSAFM

Karen Grove — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 00:53:05 GMT

Mobile Fueling – New 2018 Code Provisions and Resources for AHJs

The 2018 Fire Code establishes permitting for “on demand mobile fueling”, a newer service where cars are refueled at their parking location. Section 5707 of the 2018 Fire Code sets out a permitting structure that includes: an “operator” permit for the company offering the service, a “vehicle” permit for each truck dispensing gas, and a “site” permit for locations where mobile fueling is allowed to occur.

If your agency intends to permit mobile fueling, you may be interested in downloading WSAFM’s standard permit conditions for mobile on demand fueling operators, vehicles, and sites. WSAFM created these in conjunction with industry stakeholders, partner agencies, and the Fire Code TAG. AHJs may download and use these templates in their permitting program. The conditions align with the 2018 Washington State code including SBCC amendments that took effect July 10, 2021.

Effective July 10, 2021, the 2018 Washington State Fire Code now allows fire departments to accept “operator” and “truck” permits issued by other Washington State fire departments who meet the code standards, instead of issuing their own permit. To date, WSAFM has learned that the Seattle Fire Department is issuing operator and vehicle permits and performing truck inspections that other AHJs may opt to recognize. As required under the new 2018 code, Seattle is maintaining a list of current mobile fueling permit holders for your reference. We will continue to update this post with additional issuing jurisdictions for reference.

Local jurisdictions continue to have sole authority for mobile fueling site permits.