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Often times we are asked the question, “When
do I need a Building Permit" and, although there
are exceptions now and then, the rules are pretty clear.
The International Building Codes dictate the conditions
where permits are not required and that leaves us to
conclude that anything else not specifically mentioned
will require a permit.
Work exempted from permits are listed briefly as:
- One-story detached accessory structures used as
tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses,
provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square
feet. Such structures must also be located inside of
the building setback line, typically 5 feet from the
side property line and 20 feet from the rear property
line.
- Fences not over 6 feet high.
- Rockeries & retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height,
unless supporting a surcharge. Retaining walls over 30' are not allowed in setbacks.
- 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 5000 gallons.
- Moveable cases, counters, and partitions not over
5 feet 9 inches in height.
Other exemptions, which apply to non-residential
structures, are not listed here. If you are building
a deck, finishing a basement, planning an addition,
reroofing, remodeling, adding a plumbing fixture, gas
appliance or air conditioner, a permit will be needed
prior to starting the work.
Additional submittal requirements vary with the type
of permit and that information can be obtained either
by contacting the permit coordinator at 425.649.4444 or under 'Other Forms' on the Community Development Building Division page.
If a contractor will be used for any portion of the
permitted activity, a state business license is required
in order for them to be able to obtain a city business
license. Any hired individual or company is required
to have a city business license, which costs $31 for
an entire 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 inspections and a sign-off card is
normally provided. A project is not considered complete
unless given a final approval by the inspection personnel.
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. If a permit is expired for time, a new permit
may be obtained for ½ of the original permit
fee provided that no changes have been or will be made
in the original plans and specifications for such work.
Download: Building Permit Application
*The City gladly accepts cash and checks only. |
