Residential building permit

What is the purpose of a residential building permit?

A residential building permit is required in unincorporated King County to construct a new residential building structure or for certain improvements to assure the development is consistent with building codes and other applicable regulations.

What activities require this permit?

A residential building permit is required for:

• A new residence, mobile home, or accessory dwelling unit
• Any accessory structures such as garages and residential storage structures (detached storage building less than 200 square feet in area are exempt)
• Improvements and additions to existing residences or accessory structures
• Decks over 30" above grade; retaining walls over 4' height; and fences over 6' in height
• Heating and air-conditioning systems, fireplaces, woodstoves and other heating devices or ventilation systems
• Relocation or demolition of a structure
• Changing the use to of a home to a daycare, adult family home or a home occupation.

A basic residential permit also is available for builders who have a previously approved registered plan and intend to construct the same house on one or more building sites (see DDES Customer Information Bulletin #12A, Residential Basics Program*).

Please see related permits administered by other agencies that typically are required with a residential building permit.

How much will it cost?

See DDES' current fee schedule for an estimate.

Where can I get an application?

• Refer to the following packets for application materials:
  • Residential - Addition/Remodels, Decks, Garages, or Sheds Packet
  • Residential - Mobile Homes Packet
  • Residential - New Construction - Single Family Packet
  • Residential Swimming Pools Packet
• Request an application packet by mail by calling DDES customer service at 206-296-6600 or
• Pick up an application packet at DDES in Renton (see map and directions).

How do I submit my application?

See Applying for a permit at DDES and Drop-offs: Permits accepted by drop-off or mail*. Note that some permits can be issued over the counter. For an over-the-counter submittal, make an appointment by calling 206-296-6797.

What is the timeline for processing a residential building permit?

Varies depending on permit decision type (refer to Title 20* of the King County Code).

Notes / Comments

For more information:

• Bulletin #7: Mobile Home Permits*
• Bulletin #9: Obtaining a Residential Building Permit*
• Bulletin #10: Building On or Near Waterfront*
• Bulletin #12: Residential Permit Process*
• Bulletin #23: Certified Wood Stoves*
• Bulletin #29: Drainage Review*
• Bulletin #35: Permits for Relocating Buildings*
• Bulletin #36: Mechanical Permits*
• Bulletin #39: Residential Fire Sprinkler Systems*
• See related permits 
• See shorelines 

Legal authority

Title 16* of the King County Code

Administered by

DDES Building Services Division

Contact

For questions, please contact DDES customer service at 206-296-6600.

*Note: To view PDFs, free software from Adobe is required. See helpful hints for assistance.

To request this information in alternate formats for people with disabilities, call 206-296-6600 or TTY Relay: 711.