Published November 6 2026
The City of Bellevue Building and Fire Prevention divisions are beginning the process of updating city codes to align Bellevue’s codes with the 2024 codes.
Learn how proposed updates could influence building and fire safety, housing construction, accessibility and emerging technologies such as electric vehicle infrastructure and battery storage systems in Bellevue.
These codes are based on model codes developed by the Internation Code Council and then reviewed and adopted for Washington State by the Washington State Building Code Council. Local jurisdictions, like Bellevue, adopt them and may propose additional local amendments where state law allows.
Building and fire codes affect how homes, businesses and public spaces are built and maintained. These codes are based on nationally recognized standards, with adoption and amendment happening first by the state, and then local governments can adopt the state code without changes or amend them to a higher standard if needed to reflect community needs and priorities. Before codes are finalized, the city would like input from community members, business owners, contractors, design professionals and property owners.
Highlighted Code Updates:
- Washington State Energy Code requirements for greater energy efficiency
- Local updates are limited to Bellevue’s local conditions for flood risk, seismic conditions, wind and snow loads and other environmental and structural factors
- Fire protection and carbon monoxide detection requirements, as well as the storage and use of lithium-ion batteries.
Whether you have experience with construction, permitting, fire safety or simply want to learn more about how these codes and the upcoming changes may affect the places we live, work and gather, your perspective can help inform the amendment and adoption process.
Upcoming Information Sessions
We encourage anyone interested in the future of Bellevue's built environment to attend and participate in the conversation.
- Monday, Nov. 16 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Bellevue City Hall, Room 1E-108
- Tuesday, Dec. 1 1 p.m.-3 p.m. virtual via Microsoft Teams
- Tuesday, Jan. 19 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Bellevue City Hall, Room 1E-108
Please RSVP by emailing Dalong@bellevuewa.gov noting which session you would like to attend. Feedback can also be provided directly by email.
Next Steps
In early 2027, two ordinances will be presented for consideration by the Bellevue City Council. State law requires the city to implement the 2024 codes by May 3, 2027.