Bill > SB5055

This bill adds a new provision to Washington state law that provides a specific exemption for agricultural buildings used for agritourism activities. Under this legislation, such buildings will not be required to meet standard commercial building permit requirements, with the key exception that they must still comply with all life and fire safety standards. To qualify for this exemption, the building must be used for agritourism activities for six months or less per year. Agritourism, as defined in RCW 4.24.830, typically refers to activities that invite the public to visit agricultural operations for recreational, educational, or entertainment purposes, such as farm tours, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, or pick-your-own fruit experiences. By creating this exemption, the bill aims to reduce regulatory burdens on farmers and agricultural businesses that want to diversify their income by offering tourism-related activities, while still maintaining essential safety protections for visitors.