Washington Engineering Law Update (HB 2229): New Structural Engineer & Licensing Requirements for 2026
Washington has enacted HB 2229, effective June 11, 2026, clarifying when a Structural Engineer (SE) license is required, how engineering experience is evaluated, and how firms maintain Certificates of Authorization (COAs). The updates primarily affect firms working on large-scale or high-risk structures and introduce flexibility in firm renewal timelines.
Structural Engineer Requirement for Significant Structures
HB 2229 establishes clearer thresholds for when a Structural Engineer license is required. Engineers must now be licensed as an SE to perform structural work on defined “significant structures.”
To qualify, an individual must hold an active Washington Professional Engineer license and complete at least 2 years of qualifying structural engineering experience beyond the standard PE requirements. This reinforces structural engineering as a distinct licensure requirement rather than an extension of general engineering practice.
The law defines significant structures to include hazardous facilities, essential facilities over 5,000 square feet, such as hospitals and emergency response buildings, structures exceeding 100 feet in height, and large-span bridges. These definitions reduce ambiguity and set clearer expectations for project staffing.
Clarified Experience Requirements
The law maintains the existing eight-year experience requirement for Professional Engineers but clarifies how that experience must be evaluated. Experience must be progressive and demonstrate competency in applying engineering principles, with education counting toward a portion of the requirement within established limits.
Certificate of Authorization (COA) Changes
HB 2229 removes the fixed annual renewal cycle for Certificates of Authorization. COAs will now be valid for a period determined by the Board, with additional implementation guidance expected.
The law also reinforces responsible charge requirements. Firms must designate a licensed Professional Engineer for engineering services and a licensed Professional Land Surveyor for land surveying services. Firms offering both must designate both roles unless one individual holds both licenses.
What This Means for Firms
These updates primarily clarify when specialized licensure is required and how firms maintain authorization in Washington. Firms should review current and upcoming projects to determine whether they meet the updated definition of significant structures, confirm internal qualifications for structural engineering work, and prepare for changes to COA renewal timing once the Board issues guidance.
Stay Aligned With Washington Requirements
Regulatory updates like HB 2229 can impact both licensing and project planning. Monitoring these changes and aligning internal processes early can help avoid delays or gaps in authorization. Harbor Compliance provides tools and support to help firms track requirements, manage renewals, and maintain good standing across jurisdictions. Contact us today to learn more.
