Moundsburg building official outlines ADU code, fire and EV rules for homeowners

Chuck Dillon, building official for the City of Moundsburg, told residents at a city meeting that homeowners planning accessory dwelling units should use plans that comply with Washington State building and energy codes and follow local design criteria for seismic, wind and snow loads.

Dillon said the guidance matters because many applicants submit out-of-state plans that do not meet Washington State requirements and because following the code's prescribed path can reduce costs. “We got 3 of them on back table,” he said, referring to printed guidance documents that explain ADU standards, design criteria and the permit process.

Dillon listed several technical and life-safety items that often cause problems. He said energy-code compliance…