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Committee adopts amendment to bar local bans on non‑load‑bearing exterior cladding, exempting historic properties
Summary
Senate Bill 5571, which would prohibit local jurisdictions from excluding or requiring specific non‑load‑bearing exterior cladding materials if the materials comply with the state building code, was reported out of committee 6–0 (1 excused) after adopting an amendment exempting historic districts and landmarks.
The Local Government Committee reported out Senate Bill 5571 on March 21 with an amendment exempting historic properties and districts from the bill's prohibitions.
The bill as briefed would prevent local jurisdictions from either requiring or excluding exterior cladding materials when those materials comply with the state building code, a change sponsors said was intended to avoid local exclusions of lower‑cost but code‑compliant materials that can raise construction costs. The committee adopted amendment Russ M 247 to exempt structures in locally designated historic districts, historic districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and locally, state or nationally designated historic landmarks, at the request of historical societies and landmark boards.
Representative Zahn said the bill reduces additional burdens on developers by preventing local exclusions of non‑load‑bearing cladding materials, while Representative Griffey cautioned that some materials (for example, vinyl siding in certain climate areas) may be a poor fit but emphasized consumer choice. The committee approved the measure by voice vote; staff announced six ayes, zero nays, and one excused.
The bill will proceed to the Senate calendar for consideration.
