Do I Need a Permit?
Most construction and remodeling work requires a permit unless it is specifically listed as exempt in the International Building Code. If your project is not listed as exempt below, assume a permit is required. Always confirm before starting any work. Unique situations or alternative materials, methods, or code approaches must be approved by the building official before work proceeds.
Permit Requirements and Expiration
Permit submittal requirements vary by project type. Contact the Permit Center for guidance by phone 425-386-4103 or email permit@newcastlewa.gov. All permits expire two years from the date they are issued, regardless of project status.
Most permits require at least one inspection. When a permit is issued, any required inspections will be noted. A project is not considered complete until final approval is granted. Inspection reports must be left onsite and should be kept with permit documents.
Permit Exemptions
The following projects generally do not require a building permit:
- One-story detached accessory structures (sheds, playhouses, etc.) up to 200 sq. ft., located inside building setback lines (typically 5 feet from the side property line and 20 feet from the rear).
- Fences up to 6 feet high.
- Retaining walls/rockeries up to 4 feet tall unless supporting extra loads.
- Sidewalks and driveways no more than 30 inches above grade and not over a basement/story below.
- Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work.
- Temporary theater sets and scenery.
- Residential window awnings that project less than 54 inches and are fully wall-supported.
- Above-ground prefabricated pools less than 24 inches deep and under 5,000 gallons.
- Moveable cases, counters, and partitions under 5 feet 9 inches tall.
- Decks under 200 sq. ft., not over 30 inches above grade, not attached to a dwelling, and not serving a required exit door.
- Like-for-like re-roofing for one- and two-family homes, as long as roof sheathing is not replaced.
Other exemptions apply to non-residential structures and are not listed here.
Working with a Contractor
If you hire a contractor, both a state business license and a City of Newcastle business license are required. Any hired individual or company must also hold a City of Newcastle business license. Failure to meet these requirements may delay permit issuance or result in a stop-work order.