How Do You Get a Permit?

The permit process differs for each permit type, and may also vary depending on how complex your project is. These steps are a general guideline to follow to apply for a permit. You will submit most permit applications electronically through the Seattle Services Portal.

• How to Get a Building Permit Infographic
• 5 Steps to Submitting a Successful Permit Application

Research

• Research your property and determine the scope of your project
• Visit our common projects pages to determine the permit type required
• Get answers
  • Contact the Applicant Services Center for a free 20-minute video coaching session
  • Request a paid scheduled one-hour coaching session to answer land use, geotechnical, building, energy, and mechanical questions
  • Submit a building or land use question
  • Review applicable Tips
  • Visit the Seattle Services Portal Help Center

Start Permit Application

Submit Preliminary Application Materials

• Submit required preliminary application materials electronically through your Seattle Services Portal. You will need to include a site plan.

• Tip 103, Site Plan Requirements

Prepare Your Plans

• Prepare plans showing all of your proposed work
• Determine which permit forms are required for your permit type
• Review the PASV Report or Preliminary Assessment Report you received after submitting your pre-application to see additional requirements

• Tip 106, General Standards for Plans and Drawings

Submit Plans

Screen Application Materials

Upload your application materials to your Seattle Services Portal. We will review your material to make sure you have everything you need for a successful permit application intake. 

Schedule an Intake Appointment

Schedule an electronic intake appointment through the Seattle Services Portal. You do not need to schedule an appointment for subject-to-field-inspection permits. You do not need to be onsite during your intake appointment. However, you do need to be available for questions. We may call or email you on your appointment day for more information.

Tip: Submit your completed application early to be eligible for an earlier appointment in case of a cancellation. Once you submit your application, we'll add your project to The Intake Express Lane. This means your application will likely be taken in well ahead of your scheduled appointment. We can usually take in your application within 2-3 weeks after you upload your complete application. For more information, read How Can I Get in the Intake Express Lane?

Submit Your Permit Application

You must upload all application documents by 7:00 a.m. on the day of your appointment. We may contact you that day for more information. You will need to pay all fees once we determine your application is complete.

Make Corrections & Resubmit Your Plans

After you submit your permit application, we will review your plans. If we need additional information or changes to your plans, you will receive an email telling you that corrected and/or additional documents can be uploaded into your portal. 

Get Permit

Pay any outstanding fees and print your approved plans and permit.