Everett, WA Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Adopted codes
- IBC & IRC by reference (WAC 51-50/51-51)
- Administered by
- Building division under the building official
- Enforcement
- Civil infraction under EMC Chapter 1.20
- Governing section
- EMC 16.005.030 (amended 2022, 2024)
Summary
Everett adopts the International Building Code and International Residential Code by reference, as amended by the Washington State Building Code Council, and the building division administers all permits under these codes.
The city of Everett hereby adopts the following codes by reference, which are incorporated herein as fully as if set out at length herein: A. The current edition of the International Building Code … as adopted by the Washington State Building Code Council in Chapter 51-50 WAC … B. The current edition of the International Residential Code … as adopted by the Washington State Building Code Council in Chapter 51-51 WAC, as now or hereafter amended.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 4194-26, passed July 29, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under EMC 16.005.030, Everett adopts the current International Building Code and International Residential Code by reference, incorporating every Washington State Building Code Council amendment (WAC 51-50 for the IBC, WAC 51-51 for the IRC) automatically as it takes effect. The building division, headed by the building official appointed by the mayor under EMC 16.005.020, issues and enforces permits for work covered by these adopted codes. Everett's own local amendments to the IBC/IRC survive future state updates unless the city repeals them, and a signed copy of each adopted code is kept on file with the city clerk.
Violations & Fines
Working without a required permit, or violating the adopted building codes, is enforced as a civil infraction under EMC Chapter 1.20; the building official or a code enforcement officer may issue citations.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Everett
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