Wildfire Rebuilding Code Relief Considered
Washington officials are weighing energy-code flexibility for homeowners rebuilding after wildfires.
Washington’s Building Code Council is considering targeted changes that could make it easier for homeowners to rebuild residences destroyed by this summer’s wildfires.
Gov. Bob Ferguson has asked the council to let owners of homes built before 2015 rebuild under the 2015 residential energy code. Owners of homes built after 2015 could use the energy code in effect when their residence was originally constructed. The proposal is intended to reduce added construction costs and permitting delays while displaced homeowners work to return home.
Council members are also studying a longer-term approach that could amend current standards and give cities and counties greater flexibility when reviewing wildfire-rebuilding projects. Any relief would need to balance recovery needs with existing safety and energy-efficiency standards.
The council is aiming to act on an approach by the end of October. Builders, designers and other residential construction professionals should continue monitoring the discussion for potential changes affecting rebuilding projects and local permitting.
Related Links:
Original article: https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2026/10/19/washington-panel-eyes-ways-to-ease-hurdles-to-rebuilding-homes-destroyed-by-wildfires/
Governor’s emergency proclamation: https://governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/26-03.1%20-%20Wildfires%20-%20Immediate%20Relief%20and%20Response.pdf
Governor’s October 8 letter: https://sbcc.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2026-10/SIGNED-LetterToSBCCFrom%20Governor.pdf
Building Code Council wildfire report: https://sbcc.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2026-10/SBCC_wildfire%20emergency_report_09092026.pdf
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Source : “Washington panel eyes ways to ease hurdles to rebuilding homes destroyed by wildfires,” Jerry Cornfield, Washington State Standard, October 19, 2026.
Regional Focus : State-Wide