This chapter is enacted as an exercise of the police power of the city for the benefit of the public at large. It is not intended to create a special relationship with any individual, or individuals, nor to identify and protect any particular class of persons. It is not the intent of this chapter to impose liability on the city for failure to perform any discretionary act. Rather, it is the intent of this chapter to place the obligation of complying with its requirements upon the owner and/or contractor.

Nothing contained in this chapter shall be construed to relieve from or to lessen the responsibility or liability of any person or persons for injury or damage to persons or property caused by or resulting from any defect of any nature in any construction work performed by said person or any construction equipment owned, controlled, operated or used by the contractor; nor shall the city of Bellingham or any officer, agent, or employee thereof incur or be held as assuming any liability by reason or in consequence of any permission, certificate of inspection, inspection or approval authorized herein, or issued or given as herein provided or by reasons or consequence of any things done or acts performed pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.

The International Fire Code, 2018 Edition, including Appendix Chapters B, F, H, and I as amended by the state of Washington (Chapter 51-54A WAC), is hereby adopted by reference as the fire code of the city of Bellingham. A copy of the document is on file in the office of the finance director. It governs the safeguarding of life and property from fire and explosion hazards arising from the storage, handling and use of hazardous substances, materials and devices, and from conditions hazardous to life or property in the occupancy of buildings and premises as herein provided and provides for the issuance of permits and collection of fees therefor. Each and all of the regulations, provisions, penalties, conditions and terms of said fire code on file in the office of the city of Bellingham are hereby referred to, adopted, and made a part hereof, as if fully set out in this chapter, with the additions, insertions, deletions and changes prescribed in BMC 17.20.020 through 17.20.100. [Ord. 2021-01-002 § 1; Ord. 2016-08-027 § 1; Ord. 2013-06-040 § 1; Ord. 2012-09-044 § 1; Ord. 2011-04-021; Ord. 2010-06-038; Ord. 2007-07-057; Ord. 2004-06-040].