City permit authority

Seattle permit information

These resources apply to properties governed by the City of Seattle. A Seattle mailing address alone does not prove that the property is inside city jurisdiction.

Open Seattle Services Portal ↗Visit official SDCI website ↗

Authority

Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections

SDCI oversees City of Seattle construction permitting, inspections, code compliance, and related services.

Customer service: (206) 684-8600
Main business hours: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
Information desk: 700 Fifth Ave, 4th Floor
Last verified: Aug 16, 2026

Published guides

7 complete residential permit guides

Current guidance for one- and two-family homes, including exemptions, permit triggers, application steps, costs, timing, inspections, and official citations.

What permit does an ADU need in Seattle?One- or two-family home · 18 guide citations + 2 supplement sources

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Does an electrical panel upgrade need a permit in Seattle?One- or two-family home · 3 guide citations

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Does a residential fence need a permit in Seattle?One- or two-family home · 3 guide citations

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Does an HVAC replacement need a permit in Seattle?One- or two-family home · 5 guide citations

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Does a roof replacement need a permit in Seattle?One- or two-family home · 5 guide citations

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What permits does a residential solar installation need in Seattle?One- or two-family home · 5 guide citations

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Does a water-heater replacement need a permit in Seattle?One- or two-family home · 3 guide citations

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Official services

Apply, research, and contact Seattle

Seattle Services Portal

Apply for permits, check records, pay fees, and manage inspections.

Official City of Seattle website ↗SDCI customer services

Contact staff by help request, chat, phone, or an online coaching appointment.

Official City of Seattle website ↗Research a project or property

Find permit activity, project status, inspection status, and available records.

Official City of Seattle website ↗Schedule an inspection

Open Seattle's official inspection information and scheduling options.

Official City of Seattle website ↗