WA fire officials press for safety reforms amid accessory dwelling unit surge

Washington fire officials are advocating for a minimum 5-foot access width to homes that do not face a street, alley, or parking lot, citing safety risks posed by recent housing density laws. The new legislation has led to developments where access paths are as narrow as three feet, complicating emergency responses. During a Building Code Council meeting, Dave Kokot highlighted the urgency of the issue, prompting a petition for an emergency rule change. However, the council opted for a committee review instead of immediate adoption. Some cities, like Vancouver, already enforce a 5-foot minimum standard.

The proposal includes exceptions for properties with fire sprinkler systems, allowing for a four-foot width. Kokot acknowledged this situation as an unintended consequence of efforts to tackle housing shortages and expressed willingness to delay implementation for industry adjustments. Patrick Hanks from the Building Industry Association of Washington warned that the proposed change might hinder accessory dwelling unit construction, crucial for increasing housing affordability.