If you're planning a construction, remodel, or trade project in Spokane, Washington, navigating the permitting process is step one. From high-rise developments to HVAC swaps in single-family homes, most projects need approval from the city or county before breaking ground.
This guide breaks down the essentials of securing a Spokane building permit, including requirements, costs, and how to apply.
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What requires a building permit in Spokane?
Whether you're inside city limits or in Spokane County, most construction-related activities require Spokane permits.
Common examples include:
- Any new structure, addition, or demolition
- Accessory structures over 200 sq ft
- Fences taller than 7 ft
- Retaining walls over 4 ft, supporting surcharge or hazardous liquids
- In-ground pools or pools with power-operated safety cover over 5,000 gallons
- Decks, platforms, walks, driveways > 30 in above grade
- Permanent stage/set constructions, structural window coverings, and fixed equipment
- Structural renovations or changes in occupancy/use category
Projects that don’t require a permit in Spokane
- One-story, detached accessory structures (tool sheds, playhouses) < 200 sq ft
- Fences < 7 ft tall
- Oil derricks
- Retaining walls < 4 ft high (measured from footing to top), unless retaining surcharge or Class I–IIIA liquids
- Water tanks < 5,000 gal with height-to-diameter ratio < 2:1, supported directly on grade
- Platforms, decks, walks, and driveways < 30 in above adjacent grade, not part of an accessible route
- Painting, wallpapering, floor/ceiling/floor finishes, cabinetry, countertops, and similar non-structural finish work
- Temporary motion-picture/TV/theater stage sets and scenery
- Prefab above-ground pools < 5,000 gal for residential use
- Shade cloth nursery/agricultural structures (without service systems)
Learn more about projects that require and don't require Spokane County permits on the residential and commercial permit pages.
Spokane building permit cost
Spokane building permit fees are generally based on project valuation and scope of work.
Here are residential and commercial fees for permits in the City of Spokane:
Building permit plan review fees:
To learn more, refer to the City of Spokane’s building permit fee schedule.
Spokane trade permits
Trade permits are required for licensed contractors working on mechanical, electrical, plumbing, or similar systems. Here’s a breakdown:
Plumbing permits
Download the City of Spokane plumbing permit application to apply.
Electrical permits
Download the City of Spokane electrical permit application to apply.
Mechanical permits
Download the City of Spokane mechanical permit application to apply.
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How to apply for a building permit in Spokane
Step 1: Prepare your documents
First, you need to verify that your address is in the Spokane County or Spokane City permit service area using SCOUT Maps. Then, you have to gather all required plans and documents in the specified PDF formats (drawings, site plans, structural calculations, etc.) per the “Plan and Documents Standards.”
Step 2: Submit your application
At this stage, you have to create & verify your SmartGov portal account. Then, you need to log in to the Online Permit Center and start a new Spokane building permit form. Select the appropriate permit type (residential, commercial, plumbing, HVAC, etc.).
Step 3: Plan review
Once your submission is complete, your plans will be routed to the technical review team. You’ll receive email updates about approval notifications or requests for additional information/corrections.
Note: To monitor your permit status any time, you can use the City of Spokane permit portal.
Step 4: Pay fees and receive your permit
After the final review, an invoice for the remaining permit and state-surcharge fees is generated in your portal. Pay online (credit card, e-check) or by calling the Permit Center.
Step 5: Schedule inspections
Post the permit at the job site before any work begins. Additionally, make sure you schedule inspections via the Online Permit Center or by calling 509-720-5350. Requests before 7 a.m. are typically same-day; after 7 a.m., next business day.
Spokane permitting resources
- City of Spokane – Development Services Center
- 808 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99201
- Phone: (509) 625-6300
- Email: permitteam@spokanecity.org
- Permit Application Portal
- Spokane County Building & Planning
- 1026 W Broadway Ave, Spokane, WA 99260
- Phone: (509) 477-3675
- Spokane County permits
- Permit fees
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