Redmond's Building Safety: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles building safety a little differently. In Redmond, Washington, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed

Redmond follows WA State Building Code and IBC Chapter 33 for scaffolds. Commercial scaffold work requires L and I compliance under WAC 296-874 and Redmond permits for right-of-way use.

Key details: Residential threshold: Permit typically over 10 ft. Governing code: IBC Ch 33 and WAC 296-874. Right-of-way: ROW permit for sidewalk use. Inspections: Competent-person each shift.

Lead Paint

Pre-1978 Redmond homes fall under the federal EPA RRP Rule and Title X disclosure. Contractors must be EPA certified, use lead-safe practices, and deliver the Renovate Right pamphlet before renovation.

Key details: Applies To: Pre-1978 housing. Renovation Threshold: 6 sq ft interior / 20 sq ft exterior. Federal Rule: EPA RRP 40 CFR 745. Disclosure Law: Title X (federal). State Certification: WAC 365-230.

RRP violation: EPA civil penalty up to $40,000+ per violation per day. Title X disclosure violation: triple damages to buyer or tenant.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Redmond actively enforces its lead paint requirements.

The Bottom Line

Redmond's building safety rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Redmond is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Redmond's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.