These pages provide assistance in navigating the codes and permit requirements that apply to most any construction or development project.

The City's online permit system offers a number of features, including:

• Applying for mechanical and plumbing permits or critical areas reviews;
• Scheduling inspections; and
• Checking permit status.

The City provides a large number of information handouts designed to assist you in obtaining information about applicable standards and permit processes. Application forms are also provided for download.

Below, you can also find information on a few subjects that often come up, such as:

• Residential construction, additions, or fence projects.
  
• Commercial construction, tenant improvements or signs.
  
• When is a building permit needed?
  
• Information on Green Building.
  
• Options for informal or formal pre-application meetings with City staff.

Residential

Building a new house is a major undertaking and there are a number of regulations and codes that must be accounted for in the planning and scheduling . To expedite the process the Development Services team has compiled a general handout for New Single Family that includes the most common considerations.

Some questions to address in preparing your project might include:

• • What are there setback and height limitations?
  • Are there special storm water concerns with my property?
  • Is my property located in the Edmonds Earth Subsidence and Landslide Hazard Area, which requires special geotechnical review.

Remodeling can vary from re-doing a room to adding a significant amount of new floor area, and the review and permitting will vary accordingly. Many of the questions listed under new house construction would be applicable to larger remodels/additions. Minor projects can usually be handled with a limited review and quick turnaround.  Residential remodel/addition information.

Adding a Deck or Patio?

Decks and patios are subject to setbacks as required by the zoning code and may require a building permit, depending on height, location and construction.

Any new fence must be located within the property boundaries, so it is critical to know exactly where the property lines are before proceeding.

Whatever project you have in mind you can contact our development services staff to assist in preparing your permit submission.

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Commercial

New commercial construction  typically requires review by building, planning, fire and engineering.  It is recommended that you schedule a meeting with our Development Review Committee to go over your project early in the concept/design phase to help expedite the project.

A tenant improvement can vary in scope and the permitting and review required to be completed will vary accordingly.  You may wish to contact our Development Services Staff to assist in planning your project.

Need a sign?

A sign permit is required for most signs.  One of our Planning Staff can assist with your signage.

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When is a Building Permit required?

A building permit is required for any new construction, remodel, repair, demolition, change in use or conversion. Specific exemptions are provided for minor work. It is best to contact the Development Services staff prior to beginning work to verify if a permit is needed.

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I’m interested in Green Building.

Interested in installing solar panels? Options for including LID in your project?

LID (Low Impact Development) is encouraged and can lower your costs for expensive on-site stormwater storage and treatment. Engineering can provide more information.

Solar panels offer increased flexibility in how we use power and the City is involved with a regional study on improving the processing of requests and expediting the permitting. Our staff can assist with your project.

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What options do I have to go over my project with city staff before I apply for a permit?

Informal review. Development Review Committee (DRC) meetings offer you an opportunity to go over your project with representatives from the various city departments that will review your application including: building, planning, engineering and fire. There is no charge for this service, and the discussion is informal. To explore if this is a good option contact the Development Services department at (425) 771-0220.

Formal pre-application meeting. For a fee, we offer an opportunity to obtain a more formal review of your proposal. This includes representatives of all affected departments/divisions, and you obtain more specific written comments that you can refer to after the meeting.

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