When do I need a permit?

Although there are sometimes exceptions, rules state when a permit is needed. International Building Codes provide the conditions where permits are not required, and anything not specifically mentioned below will require a permit.

Work exempted from permits:

— One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet. Such structures must also be located inside of the building setback line, typically five feet from the side property line and 20 feet from the rear property line.

— Fences not over six feet high.

— Rockeries and retaining walls that are not over four feet in height, unless supporting a surcharge.

— Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches above grade and not over any basement or story below and which are not part of an accessible route.

— Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and other similar finish work.

— Temporary theater stage sets and scenery.

— Residential window awnings supported by an exterior wall when projecting not more than 54 inches out from the wall and that do not require additional support.

— Prefabricated swimming pools in which the pool walls are entirely above grade, less than 24 inches deep, and the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons.

— Movable cases, counters, and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches in height.

— Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30” above grade at any point, and are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve an exit door required by Section R311.4.

— Like-for-like re-roofing of one and two family dwellings, provided that the roof sheathing is not removed or replaced.

Other exemptions, which apply to non-residential structures, are not listed here. If you are finishing a basement, building an addition, remodeling, adding a plumbing fixture, gas appliance or air conditioner, a permit will be needed prior to starting the work.

Submittal requirements vary with the type of permit. That information can be obtained by contacting the permit coordinator at (425) 386-4103 or [email protected]

If a contractor will be used for any portion of the permitted activity, a state business license is required, as well as a city business license. Any hired individual or company is required to have a city business license, which costs $50 for a calendar year. Failure to comply with any of the permit requirements will result in the permit not being issued or a stop work order being posted after the permit is issued.

With any permit, at least one inspection is required. When the permit is issued, the applicant is informed of the required inspection(s) and a sign-off card is normally provided. A project is not considered complete unless given a final approval by the inspector. Copies of all inspection reports are left at the site and are to be kept with the permit documents.

Any situations not specifically described above or situations that are unique to the processes listed must be approved by the building official. The building official must approve alternate materials, methods, or codes prior to proceeding with the work.

All permits shall expire after two years from the date of issuance, regardless of whether the work is completed.

Mechanical Permits

Are you replacing or installing a new water heater or any other mechanical fixture that is NOT associated with a remodel, new construction (such as a single family home), or any other building permit?

— If yes, all you need to do is complete a Mechanical Permit Application and bring it to City Hall during permit counter hours, or you can obtain your permit online at MyBuildingPermit.com.

— If no, then you must complete a Mechanical Permit Application as part of your overall Building Permit application packet. These types of permits cannot be completed over the counter and require review.

— FEES: For specific mechanical permit fees, please see the Fee Schedule.

Plumbing Permits

Are you replacing or installing a new shower or any other plumbing fixture that is not associated with a remodel, new construction (such as single-family home), or any other building permit? 

— If yes, all you need to do is complete a Plumbing Permit Application and bring it to City Hall during permit counter hours, or you can obtain your permit online at MyBuildingPermit.com.

— If no, then you must complete a Plumbing Permit Application as part of your overall Building Permit application packet. These types of permits cannot be completed over the counter and require review.

— FEES: For specific plumbing permit fees, please see the Fee Schedule.

Re-Roofing Permits

Are you replacing your roof, including the sheathing?

— If yes, all you need to do is complete a Building Permit Application and bring it into City Hall during permit counter hours or you can obtain your permit online at MyBuildingPermit.com.

— FEES: For specific permit fees, please see the Fee Schedule.

Single Family Homes

If you are building new construction or expanding the footprint of your home, you will need to complete a single-family home application. Please see mybuildingpermit.com and ensure you properly prepare and submit all required materials. 

FEES: Plan Review Fees due at time of submittal. Building projects of these kinds are based off of valuation. An estimate of fees cannot be provided prior to submittal. You may use the Fee Schedule and ICC Valuation Table to determine fees in advance.

Solar Permits (Building Division)

If you are having new solar panels installed on a one- and two-family dwelling or townhouse you may qualify for a streamlined permitting process. Please see the Residential Solar Permits – Streamlined Permitting Process standard operating procedure for additional information. If you qualify, please submit your solar permit drawings and manufacturer’s information and a flat fee of $300 plus applicable technology and MBP fees on mybuildingpermit.com, and your review will be expedited. Additional fees will be assessed if resubmittal is required.

For all other conditions including commercial structures, replacement panels, ground-installations, or other one- and two-family dwelling or townhouse structures that do not qualify for the streamlined permitting process, please complete an application on mybuildingpermit.com, and submit your solar permit drawings and manufacturer’s information.

FEES: Your fee will be assessed based on valuation of the solar installation in accordance with our NMC15.05.109.2.1

Demolition Permits (Building Division and Public Works Department)

If you are demolishing a structure, you will need to complete a Demolition Permit Application at mybuildingpermit.com: 

— For an Asbestos Abatement Report - Contact the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency at (206)689-4058; 

FEES: For demolition fees, please see the Fee Schedule.

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