Seattle Permitting Note: Seattle is in a high seismic zone — structural work must meet enhanced earthquake-resistance standards. Seattle also has one of the nation's strictest tree ordinances; check tree removal requirements before any excavation.
About Building Permits in Seattle
Building permits in Seattle are issued by the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI). Most residential permit applications are submitted online through the Seattle Services Portal portal at seattle.gov/sdci. Processing times for standard residential projects typically run 8–12 weeks for standard Over-the-Counter review.
2021 Seattle Building Code (based on IBC with Seattle's seismic amendments). Seattle's Design Review process applies to many residential additions — check your lot's zoning before starting.
Inspections must be scheduled 48 hours in advance through the Seattle Services Portal.