How Much Does a Building Permit Cost in Washington
Quick Answer:
In Washington State, building permits for new residential homes typically cost $3,000 to $6,000, depending on size and location. Smaller projects like window replacements may cost $50ā$200, while major remodels range $200ā$1,000. Large-scale commercial permits can exceed $10,000. For example, Skagit County permit fees begin at $32 for projects valued at $500, while Island County charges about $1,500ā$2,500 in permit and plan review fees for a $170,000 project, plus a 3% technology surcharge.
For a full breakdown of home construction costs beyond permits, see our guide on the Average Cost to Build a Home in Washington.
Why Building Permits Matter
When planning a construction or renovation project, one of the first steps youāll encounter is the need for a building permit.
A building permit is an official approval issued by local government agencies that allows you to proceed with construction or remodeling projects on your property. These permits are necessary to ensure that the work complies with local building codes and safety standards,Ā and will not result in a condition hazardous to yourself or your neighbors. In most areas, the permits also allow the local government to accurately assess your property for tax purposes. In most locations a home construction permit is reviewed by the local fire department to make sure they have emergency access should that be required.
Without a permit, you risk fines or being required to dismantle unapproved construction.Ā Also, should you want to sell your originally three bedroom now four bedroom house, you cannot call it four bedrooms if the County calls it three. So permits provide a number of positive reasons for their use.
Factors That Affect Building Permit Costs
Building permit costs can vary widely based on several factors. Understanding these factors will help you estimate the potential costs for your project.
Project Size and Complexity
The size and complexity of your project play a major role.
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Larger projects (new homes, commercial builds) require more plan reviews and inspections, which raise fees.
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Smaller projects (minor repairs, window replacements) usually cost far less.
Location
Permit costs vary by jurisdiction.
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Urban areas may charge more than rural areas because of higher demand and stricter zoning rules.
Type of Construction
Different projects have different fee schedules.
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Structural changes, plumbing, and electrical work may each require separate permits.
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Specialized projects (swimming pools, decks) also have unique costs.
Additional Fees
Other charges may apply:
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Plan review fees (often 65% of base permit). In most cases, the jurisdiction will charge an initial fee to review the supplied documents after they have determined that all of the necessary documents have been submitted.
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Inspection fees.Ā When the reviewing is completed, another fee will be charged to pay for any necessary inspections.
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Impact fees (schools, parks, traffic). Larger jurisdictions may add impact fees, at times totaling far beyond the cost of the permit itself.Ā In some locations, those fees can range up to $20,000, paying for infrastructure improvements that will occur in the future.
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Admin or tech fees (Island County adds 3%).
Want to see how permits fit into your overall construction budget? Read our guide on the Average Cost to Build a Home in Washington.
Average Building Permit Costs
Hereās what you can expect based on project size:
Small Projects
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$50ā$200 (minor renovations like replacing windows or installing new appliances).
Medium Projects
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$200ā$1,000 (kitchen remodels, room additions).
Large Projects
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$1,000 to several thousand dollars (new home construction or major commercial projects).
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In Washington, residential permits for new homes average $3,000ā$6,000, while commercial can exceed $10,000.
Washington County Examples
Skagit County
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Fees start at $32 for the first $500 valuation, plus $3.75 for each additional $100.
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Impact fees may apply depending on the project.
Island County
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~$1,537 permit fee for a $170,000 project.
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~$999 plan review fee.
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$4.50 state surcharge.
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3% technology surcharge.
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$51.50 admin fee.
š Together, Island County fees for a modest home may reach $2,500ā$3,000 before impact fees. Compare these with overall construction budgets in our Average Cost to Build a Home in Washington.
āBuilding permits are one of the most critical ā and most misunderstood ā parts of any construction project. When handled properly, they protect homeowners, contractors, and the integrity of the build itself. But when theyāre rushed or overlooked, they can cause serious delays and added costs. Taking the time to understand the process, submit complete applications, and communicate with the local jurisdiction makes all the difference in keeping a project on schedule.ā
ā Mark Robinson, Owner, Northwest Permit Services
How to Apply for a Building Permit
Research Local Requirements
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Find requirements on your county or city government website. If your project is complicated or involves wetlands, critical areas or similar complications, it may be worthwhile to schedule a pre-application meeting with the local planning department. Some locations may require this step. Such a meeting will include all of the people who will be reviewing your application, so you will get an opportunity to meet them in person, which is always a good thing. Some jurisdictions charge a fee of up to $300, but in every case, it will be money well spent.
Prepare Your Application
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Gather project plans, drawings, and specifications. Make sure any building plans have been stamped/signed by the appropriate originator, referencing the current building codes. In WA, the State regulations are such that insulation, window sizing, and heat sources are carefully controlled, requiring documentation showing your project meets those regulations.Ā Of particular importance is the site plan, showing everything currently on the site and the intended changes, all in scale.Ā This will be a center point for the permits, as it will show everything involved in the project.
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Ensure compliance with local building codes and zoning laws.
Submit Your Application
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Submit online or in person at your local building department. Almost every jurisdiction now has online submission only. Be comfortable with handling .pdf documents. During the review process, it will be handy to have a .pdf editing tool available.
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Pay the application fee.
Plan Review and Approval
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Officials review your plans for compliance.
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If changes are needed, youāll be asked to adjust. You will get comments that require adjustments to your original submission.Ā This is where the .pdf editing tool is handy. DO NOT argue about the comments, just make the corrections and resubmit.Ā You will never win an argument with the people who wrote the rules.
Obtain Your Permit
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Once approved, youāll receive your permit. You will receive a notification that there is a fee to be paid, after which you will be sent the permit.
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Keep it visible at the job site for inspections.
DIY Note:
- Many people consider that they can perform their own permit submission, and go about the work involved. While this may offer a good feeling of being involved with the project on a more intimate way, it often carries a cost.Ā General Contractors typically estimate that a self done permit submission results in a delay of two months when compared to hiring a permit specialist, as a result of additional corrections when compared to a professionally prepared submission.Ā The Building Industry Association of Washington research has shown that a one-week delay in starting construction of a single-family home adds about $1,100 to the cost of the project. Do the math and the DIY submission cost in delays will exceed the cost of hiring a professional to do the work.Ā SICBA can provide guidance as to the professional permit companies in your area.
Tools for Estimating Permit Costs
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Seattle SDCI Fee Estimator ā Seattle.gov
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County fee schedules ā Skagit, Snohomish, King, Pierce
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Local planning departments ā Call for estimates
Tips for Managing Building Permit Costs
Managing building permit costs effectively can save you money and help you stay within budget:
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Plan Ahead: Research permit requirements and fees early.
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Consult Professionals: Architects, contractors, or permit expediters can help streamline the process.
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Bundle Projects: Combine multiple projects under one permit to save fees.
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Stay Informed: Fees and codes can change annually.
FAQ
Q: How much does a building permit cost in Washington?
A: $50ā$200 for small projects, $200ā$1,000 for remodels, and $3,000ā$6,000+ for new homes.
Q: What are Skagit County fees?
A: $32 for the first $500 + $3.75 for each additional $100 in valuation.
Q: What about Island County fees?
A: ~$1,537 permit fee + ~$999 plan review fee + 3% tech surcharge.
Q: Do commercial permits cost more?
A: Yes, often $10,000+ due to larger project scope and impact fees.
Q: Do I need a permit for small projects like decks or fences?
A: Often yes ā check your countyās website for requirements.
Conclusion
Understanding the cost of building permits is an essential part of planning any construction or renovation project. By considering factors such as project size, location, and type of construction, you can estimate permit costs more accurately. Following the application process and using cost-saving strategies can help you manage your budget effectively and ensure a successful project.