Seattle Permitting Guide for Builders & Contractors

If you’re planning a construction project in Seattle, Washington, understanding the local permitting process is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful outcome. The City of Seattle has established guidelines and resources to help you navigate the complexities of obtaining permits. In this guide, we’ll break down the essential steps and provide the information you need to get started.

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When do you need a building permit in Seattle?

Most construction projects in Seattle require a permit, especially if they involve:

• New construction, additions, or alterations to existing structures
• Demolition of buildings
• Changes in building occupancy or use
• Work in Environmentally Critical Areas (ECAs)
• Grading or significant site work
• Installation of pools or spas

For detailed information, refer to the SDCI's Do You Need a Permit? page.

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Projects that typically do not require a permit

Certain minor projects do not need a Seattle building permit. They include:

• One-story detached accessory buildings (e.g., greenhouses, tool sheds, playhouses) if the projected roof area is less than 120 square feet and the building foundation is only a slab on the ground
• Fences less than 8 feet high and without concrete or masonry elements higher than 6 feet
• Decks and platforms less than 18 inches above grade and not over a basement or other building story
• Patio and concrete slabs on the ground (on grade)
• Painting, wallpapering, and similar finish work that does not affect structural components
• Minor repairs or alterations that cost $6,000 or less in any 6-month period, provided they do not involve work on load-bearing supports, changes to the building envelope, or work that reduces egress, light, ventilation, or fire resistance

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Seattle building permit fees: residential projects

Permit fees for residential construction in Seattle are based on project valuation, type of work, and scope of review. Key components include:

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1. Plan review fee

• 75% of the total permit fee is typically due at the time of application intake
• Complex land use reviews (Design Review, ECA, Variances, etc.) may include a minimum fee of $4,670, covering the first 10 hours of review
• Additional time is billed at $467/hour

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2. Permit fee

• The remaining 25% of the total permit fee is due before permit issuance
• Calculated based on construction valuation using SDCI’s Fee Estimator (available to download here)

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3. Technology fee

• A 5% technology fee is added to all charges

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4. Additional hourly fees (if applicable)

• Land use-related reviews: $467/hour
• Electrical plan review (residential): ~$257/hour

For more information, please refer to the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections page.

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Seattle building permit fees: commercial projects

Commercial projects often fall under Master Use Permits (MUP) and design reviews, with higher complexity and fees:

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1. Master use permit (MUP) review

• Minimum fee: $9,340 for 20 hours
• Hourly rate after that: $467/hour
• Public notice fees range from $717 to $1,598, depending on project type

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2. Design review fees

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3. Other fees

• Drainage/Ordinance: ~$205.50 (if applicable)
• Technology Fee: 5% of all charges

Learn more about how much your Seattle permit will cost.

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How long do building permits last in Seattle?

Seattle permits are valid for 18 months from the date of issuance. If your project requires more time, you can apply for a one-time extension of up to 12 months.

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Seattle permit application process

If you're ready to get a Seattle building permit, whether for a personal or commercial project, you can use the guide below to start navigating the process.

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Step 1: Pre-application

Begin by submitting a Building & Land Use Pre-Application through the Seattle Services Portal.

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Step 2: Prepare your application

Here you have to gather all required documents, which include:

• Detailed site plans
• Construction drawings
• Project descriptions
• Any necessary reports or assessments

Check if all documents meet SDCI's formatting and content requirements.

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Step 3: Schedule an intake appointment

When your application is good to go, go to the Seattle Services Portal to book your electronic intake appointment. Make sure to upload all your documents before 7:00 a.m. on the day of your meeting. Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay about 75% of the total permit fees during this stage.

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Step 4: Plan review and corrections

SDCI will review your application and may request corrections or additional information.

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Step 5: Permit issuance

After all reviews are complete and fees are paid, you’ll get your Seattle permit. Print the permit and approved plans to have on-site during construction.

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Step 6: Inspections and project completion

Schedule required inspections through the Seattle Services Portal. Once everything is done, you will be issued a Certificate of Occupancy.

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Seattle permit search: How to look up permits online

Need to check the status of a building permit or research past construction on a property? The Seattle permit search tool makes it easy. 

Simply visit the Seattle Services Portal and enter the address, record number, or parcel ID to:

• View current and past permit applications
• Check inspection results and scheduled dates
• Track plan review and permit issuance progress
• Download approved documents and site plans

The system includes records for building, electrical, land use, and trade permits issued by the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI).

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Seattle permitting resources

For assistance with your permit applications, you can reach out to the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections directly:

• Phone: (206) 684-8600 
• Address: 700 5th Ave, Suite 2000, Seattle, WA, 98104
• Hours:  Monday to Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

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