Building & Fire Safety
The Building & Fire Safety Section is responsible for the enforcement of the State Building Act which encompasses several different codes:
The Department is currently using the 2009 Codes. These include:
- International Building and Residential Building Codes
- Washington State Historic Building Code
- Washington State Energy / Ventilation and Indoor Quality Code
- Uniform Plumbing Code
- International Mechanical Code
- International Fire Code
The Building Division is made up of two program areas: development permitting inspections and fire safety inspections.
Fire Safety Inspections are initiated and an approved permit is issued for large burn piles, underground storage tanks or fireworks stands/displays. The Fire Marshall investigates all fires in county jurisdiction, and reports when there is a county burn ban in effect.
Rules and regulations adopted by the Council establishing regulations for Barrier Free Facilities are also enforced by the Building Section.
For more information on burn permits and burn regulations see
Southwest WA Fire Prevention Council and the Southwest Clean Air Act.
Helpful Links
Firewise, Lewis County - Wildfire Education & Prevention Project