The State Building Code Council on April 25 accepted model-code review reports for the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code and opened a 60-day public proposal window for plumbing-code petitions.

The council’s mechanical, ventilation, plumbing and energy (MVPE) committee had reviewed model code changes and existing state amendments for the UPC and recommended that the council accept the committee’s reports and open the code-change proposal window. Ben O’Mourup, acting as ad hoc chair for the MVPE review, moved to accept the UPC reports and open the proposal window; Katie Sheehan seconded the motion. The council approved the motion by voice vote.

The proposal window was set to run from April 25 through June 23. Council staff said the 60-day period follows the council’s standard minimum proposal window and allows proponents time to prepare petitions for state amendments or model-code adoption. The UPC review the tag completed included a note that one model-code change (backflow prevention for carbonated beverage dispensers) may conflict with current state Department of Health rules and was therefore flagged for a state amendment proposal.

Why it matters: The UPC governs plumbing installation standards statewide. Acceptance of the tag’s reports and opening a proposal window begins the formal process for stakeholders to propose state amendments or to adopt 2024 model-code language into Washington’s plumbing code.

Context & next steps: Staff said the UPC-related reports are available in the meeting packet. The council will receive proposals filed during the window and, if necessary, refer them to the appropriate technical advisory group for development and recommendation ahead of any final action.

Ending: Staff noted one item flagged for potential state amendment following consultation with the Department of Health; council members asked that subject-matter reviewers be identified to draft language if petitioners do not.