Washington has enacted HB 2229, efficient June 11, 2026, clarifying when a Structural Engineer (SE) license is required, how engineering expertise is evaluated, and the way corporations keep Certificates of Authorization (COAs). The updates primarily have an effect on corporations engaged on large-scale or high-risk constructions and introduce flexibility in agency renewal timelines.
Structural Engineer Requirement for Vital Buildings
HB 2229 establishes clearer thresholds for when a Structural Engineer license is required. Engineers should now be licensed as an SE to carry out structural work on outlined “important constructions.”
To qualify, a person should maintain an energetic Washington Skilled Engineer license and full not less than 2 years of qualifying structural engineering expertise past the usual PE necessities. This reinforces structural engineering as a definite licensure requirement reasonably than an extension of basic engineering observe.
The legislation defines important constructions to incorporate hazardous services, important services over 5,000 sq. ft, resembling hospitals and emergency response buildings, constructions exceeding 100 ft in peak, and large-span bridges. These definitions scale back ambiguity and set clearer expectations for mission staffing.
Clarified Expertise Necessities
The legislation maintains the prevailing eight-year expertise requirement for Skilled Engineers however clarifies how that have should be evaluated. Expertise should be progressive and reveal competency in making use of engineering ideas, with training counting towards a portion of the requirement inside established limits.
Certificates of Authorization (COA) Modifications
HB 2229 removes the mounted annual renewal cycle for Certificates of Authorization. COAs will now be legitimate for a interval decided by the Board, with extra implementation steering anticipated.
The legislation additionally reinforces accountable cost necessities. Companies should designate a licensed Skilled Engineer for engineering companies and a licensed Skilled Land Surveyor for land surveying companies. Companies providing each should designate each roles until one particular person holds each licenses.
What This Means for Companies
These updates primarily make clear when specialised licensure is required and the way corporations keep authorization in Washington. Companies ought to overview present and upcoming tasks to find out whether or not they meet the up to date definition of great constructions, verify inside {qualifications} for structural engineering work, and put together for modifications to COA renewal timing as soon as the Board points steering.
Keep Aligned With Washington Necessities
Regulatory updates like HB 2229 can influence each licensing and mission planning. Monitoring these modifications and aligning inside processes early may help keep away from delays or gaps in authorization. Harbor Compliance supplies instruments and assist to assist corporations observe necessities, handle renewals, and keep good standing throughout jurisdictions. Contact us at the moment to be taught extra.
