17C.30.040 Work Exempt from Permit.
Section R105.2 of the International Residential Code is amended as follows:
1. One story detached accessory structure used as unheated tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 m2) and it is at least three feet from a property line.
2. Fences not over 6 feet (1829 mm) high.
3. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.
4. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18-927 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
5. Decks, sidewalks, and driveways not more than 30 inches above grade at any point and not over any story or basement below.
6. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
7. Swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep.
8. Self contained Spas and hot tubs installed entirely above ground and not connected to the potable water system nor to a drain into a septic or sewer system.
9. Swings and other playground equipment.
10. Window Awnings:
a. Fixed window awnings supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
b. Retractable window awnings, motorized or manual pull out, supported by an exterior wall that do not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 m2).
11. The re-roofing of Group R, Division 3 One and Two-Family Dwellings and Group U, private garages, carports and accessory structures having a roof slope greater than 2" in 12", when the total load of all roof coverings does not exceed 7.5 pounds per square foot. This exemption does not apply to vegetated roofs.
This exemption does not apply to the replacement of roof sheathing.
12. The re-siding of Group R, Division 3 One and Two-Family Dwellings and Group U, private garages, carports and accessory structures.
This exemption does not apply to the replacement of wall sheathing, shear walls, or weather resistant exterior described in IRC Section 703.
13. The installation or relocation of an accessory membrane-covered frame structure where the floor area does not exceed 576 square feet in area and the structure is assembled and anchored per manufacturer's recommendations.
14. One-story detached accessory agriculture structure up to 600 square feet on land where agriculture activities are allowed as identified under Title 18A PCC, Development Regulations – Zoning, provided:
a. The proposed structure must meet the definition of an agriculture structure as defined in the International Building Code, Section 202.
b. The property owner must certify through the use of an affidavit recorded on title:
1. That the exempt structure will meet the definition of an agriculture structure;
2. That the structure is not located within a wetland or regulated fish and wildlife species and habitat conservation area unless it meets the exemption provisions under Title 18E PCC, Development Regulations – Critical Areas;
3. That it complies with setback requirements in accordance with Title 18A PCC, Development Regulations – Zoning; and
4. That it is built to the latest version of the International Residential Code and International Building and Fire Code.
c. Plumbing and mechanical permits are still required.
d. The maximum height of the structure does not exceed 14 feet.
e. The exemption applies only to parcels five acres or greater in size. The number of exempt structures is not to exceed two per parcel.
f. The exemption does not apply to structures located within a floodway.
g. The proposed structure must adhere to other applicable Pierce County, State, and Federal regulations or ordinances.
Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of Pierce County.