9 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 8 cities in King County, Washington.
Verified from official government sources
Lead paint in King County follows federal EPA RRP rule (40 CFR 745) and Washington RCW 70A.340. Pre-1978 housing triggers disclosure and certified contractor requirements for most renovations.
EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule, 40 CFR Part 745 Subpart E
In 1978, the federal government banned the sale of lead-based paint for use in homes, childcare facilities and preschools. Approximately three-quarters of the homes in the United States built before 1978 still contain some lead-based paint. Children can live safely in these homes as long as paint and surfaces are in good condition and surfaces are kept clean. The key is to keep children from co...
Elevators in King County are regulated by Washington L&I under RCW 70.87 and WAC 296-96. Annual state inspections and operating permits are required. ASME A17.1 is the adopted safety code.
Scaffolds in King County are regulated by Washington L&I DOSH under WAC 296-874. Scaffolds over 4 feet (general industry) or 10 feet (construction) require guardrails and fall protection.
Pest control in King County follows Washington WSDA rules under RCW 17.21 and WAC 16-228. Commercial applicators must be licensed. Landlords must provide pest-free rentals under RCW 59.18.
Washington's adopted International Residential Code under RCW 19.27 makes fire sprinklers mandatory in townhouses and multifamily buildings; single-family fire sprinklers are typically required only when triggered by access, water-supply, or local amendments.
Childcare centers in King County must meet Washington State Building Code occupancy requirements under RCW 19.27 and obtain a license from the Washington Department of Children, Youth, and Families per RCW 43.216 and WAC 110-300.
Door locks on residential and commercial buildings in King County must comply with the Washington-adopted International Building Code and International Fire Code under RCW 19.27, ensuring single-action egress without keys, tools, or special knowledge.
King County Code Title 21A controls house bulk through floor-area, lot-coverage, and height limits rather than a dedicated mansionization ordinance, with stricter standards in rural and Vashon Island zones to preserve neighborhood character.
King County buildings must meet the Washington State Energy Code under RCW 19.27A, one of the strictest in the nation; the county's Strategic Climate Action Plan also drives green-building incentives toward carbon neutrality by 2050.
8 cities in King County have their own building safety rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
7 verified rules β’ Childcare Center Rules, Elevator Maintenance
4 verified rules β’ Elevator Maintenance, Lead Paint
4 verified rules β’ Elevator Maintenance, Lead Paint
4 verified rules β’ Elevator Maintenance, Lead Paint
4 verified rules β’ Elevator Maintenance, Lead Paint
4 verified rules β’ Elevator Maintenance, Lead Paint
4 verified rules β’ Elevator Maintenance, Lead Paint
4 verified rules β’ Elevator Maintenance, Lead Paint
See every category we cover for King County β parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
King County Ordinance Hub β