Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

All properties within the Ketchikan Gateway Borough's unincorporated jurisdiction, excluding incorporated City of Ketchikan and City of Saxman limits. Includes Ward Cove, Herring Cove, Clover Pass, and other unincorporated communities. Use the KGB GIS parcel viewer to verify jurisdiction.

Department

Ketchikan Gateway Borough — Community Development Department, Building Division

Address

1900 First Ave, Suite 203, Ketchikan, AK 99901

Phone

(907) 228-6620

Email

building@kgbak.us

Website

https://www.kgbak.us/departments/community_development/building_division/index.php

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Determine that your property is within KGB unincorporated jurisdiction (not inside City of Ketchikan or City of Saxman limits) using the KGB GIS parcel viewer or call (907) 228-6620.
2. Identify the permit type required: building, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing (each may require a separate permit).
3. Download or obtain the applicable permit application form from the KGB Building Division.
4. Prepare required construction documents including site plans, construction drawings, structural calculations, energy code compliance, and contractor registration information.
5. Complete the application form and submit the complete package in person at 1900 First Ave, Suite 203, Ketchikan, AK 99901.
6. Pay the plan review fee at time of submittal (based on construction valuation; approximately 65% of the building permit fee).
7. Await plan review by Borough staff for code compliance with adopted building codes.
8. Respond to any correction requests and resubmit revised plans if required.
9. Once plans are approved, pay the remaining permit fee and receive the issued permit.
10. Post the permit placard on the job site in a visible location before beginning work.
11. Schedule all required inspections at key construction milestones by calling (907) 228-6620.
12. Pass all required inspections and receive Certificate of Occupancy for new construction or additions.

Typical processing time: Plan review typically takes 10 to 30 business days for standard residential projects. Commercial or complex hillside/structural projects may take longer.

Source: Ketchikan Gateway Borough — Community Development Department, Building Division

General Requirements

A building permit is required for new construction, additions, structural alterations, demolition, changes of occupancy, all electrical/mechanical/plumbing work, retaining walls over 4 feet, decks, elevated platforms, accessory structures above exempt thresholds, grading/excavation on steep slopes, and shoreline/waterfront structures.

Required Documents

• Completed KGB permit application form
• Site plan drawn to scale showing property lines, setbacks, topographic contours (required for steep terrain), building footprint, driveway/access, existing structures, and distance to water bodies
• Construction drawings: floor plans, elevations (all four sides), building sections, foundation plan and details, structural framing plans
• Structural calculations for complex structures, hillside foundations, or projects in high seismic zones
• Energy code compliance documentation (Alaska amendments to IECC)
• Soils/geotechnical report (recommended or required for steep slopes, fill areas, unstable soils, or slide-prone terrain)
• Contractor information: Alaska DLWD construction contractor registration number
• Owner affidavit/homeowner permit application if owner-builder

Permit validity

Permits expire if construction does not commence within 180 days of issuance or if work is abandoned or suspended for 180 consecutive days. Extensions may be granted; contact the Building Division.

Building code

Ketchikan Gateway Borough adopts the Alaska State Building Code based on the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) and 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) with Alaska-specific amendments. Additional codes: 2018 International Mechanical Code (IMC), 2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC), 2018 International Fire Code (IFC), 2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with Alaska amendments (Climate Zone 7), and NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code) as adopted by the Alaska Electrical Code.

Owner-builder

Homeowners may pull building permits for their own primary residence as owner-builders. The homeowner must occupy or intend to occupy the structure. For electrical and plumbing work, Alaska state law generally requires licensed contractors unless the homeowner qualifies for an exemption. Owner-builders assume all liability for code compliance.

Contractor requirements

Alaska requires construction contractors to register with the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DLWD). Registration requires proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Specialty trades (electrical, plumbing, mechanical) have separate journeyman/master certification requirements.

Fees

Minimum permit fee

Not confirmed from public sources — contact the Building Division

Plan check fee

Approximately 65% of the building permit fee, paid at time of permit application submittal. Non-refundable once review begins.

Permit fee formula

Building permit fees are based on construction valuation using a tiered schedule (increasing dollar ranges with increasing percentage rates), consistent with IBC Table 1 building valuation methodology.

Reinspection fee

Charged when reinspection is required due to incomplete work, failed inspection, or inspector unable to gain site access. Specific amount not confirmed from public sources — contact the Building Division.

Payment note

The KGB Building Division does not appear to post its current fee schedule publicly. All permit fees should be confirmed directly with the Building Division before submitting applications. Due to Ketchikan's remote location and high construction costs, project valuations and resulting permit fees may be higher than mainland comparables.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• One-story detached accessory structures used as tool sheds, storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses, provided floor area does not exceed 200 square feet (confirm current threshold with Building Division)
• Fences not over 6 feet high
• Retaining walls not over 4 feet from bottom of footing to top of wall, unless supporting a surcharge or adjacent to a public right-of-way
• Ordinary repairs that do not affect structural elements, fire ratings, or life safety systems
• Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work
• Moveable cases, counters, and partitions not exceeding 5 feet 9 inches in height
• Prefabricated above-ground swimming pools accessory to a one- or two-family dwelling less than 24 inches deep, not greater than 5,000 gallons, and installed entirely above ground
• Platforms, walks, and driveways not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade and not over any basement or story below

Important: Even if no building permit is required, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical work may still require separate trade permits. Always confirm with the Building Division. Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from zoning and planning requirements.

Inspections

How to Schedule

• (907) 228-6620 (phone)

Scheduling deadline

At least 24–48 hours advance notice typically required.

Inspection hours

Borough office hours: Monday through Friday, approximately 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Alaska Time.

Time windows

Inspection availability may be limited by inspector workload and weather. Building in Ketchikan requires flexibility in inspection scheduling due to frequent rain and occasional wind events that may delay exterior or elevated-work inspections.

Typical inspection sequence: Typical sequence for residential new construction: pre-construction/footing layout, foundation/footing, underground utilities, foundation waterproofing/drainage, framing, rough MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), insulation, fire-rated assembly (if applicable), and final inspection. Retaining walls over 4 feet: footing, wall construction, and final. Elevated decks/boardwalks: post/pier foundation, framing, and final.

Parts of the KGB unincorporated area are accessible only by boat, floatplane, or foot trail. Applicants on remote parcels must coordinate with the Building Division regarding inspection scheduling and access.

Additional Resources

• Building code: Ketchikan Gateway Borough adopts the Alaska State Building Code based on the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) and 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) with Alaska-specific amendments. Additional codes: 2018 International Mechanical Code (IMC), 2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC), 2018 International Fire Code (IFC), 2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with Alaska amendments (Climate Zone 7), and NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code) as adopted by the Alaska Electrical Code.
• Verify contractor license: Alaska Contractor Registration Lookup
• Alaska Division of Building Safety (State Fallback Authority)
• Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DLWD)
• USDA Forest Service — Tongass National Forest / Misty Fiords National Monument
• License lookup guide: Alaska Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Alaska Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Alaska hub: Alaska Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Ketchikan Gateway Borough Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK?

A building permit is required for new construction, additions, structural alterations, demolition, changes of occupancy, all electrical/mechanical/plumbing work, retaining walls over 4 feet, decks, elevated platforms, accessory structures above exempt thresholds, grading/excavation on steep slopes, and shoreline/waterfront structures.

How much does a building permit cost in Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK?

The minimum permit fee is Not confirmed from public sources — contact the Building Division. Fees are calculated as: Building permit fees are based on construction valuation using a tiered schedule (increasing dollar ranges with increasing percentage rates), consistent with IBC Table 1 building valuation methodology.. Plan check fee: Approximately 65% of the building permit fee, paid at time of permit application submittal. Non-refundable once review begins..

How do I apply for a building permit in Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK?

1. Determine that your property is within KGB unincorporated jurisdiction (not inside City of Ketchikan or City of Saxman limits) using the KGB GIS parcel viewer or call (907) 228-6620. 2. Identify the permit type required: building, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing (each may require a separate permit). 3. Download or obtain the applicable permit application form from the KGB Building Division. 4. Prepare required construction documents including site plans, construction drawings, structural calculations, energy code compliance, and contractor registration information. 5. Complete the application form and submit the complete package in person at 1900 First Ave, Suite 203, Ketchikan, AK 99901. 6. Pay the plan review fee at time of submittal (based on construction valuation; approximately 65% of the building permit fee). 7. Await plan review by Borough staff for code compliance with adopted building codes. 8. Respond to any correction requests and resubmit revised plans if required. 9. Once plans are approved, pay the remaining permit fee and receive the issued permit. 10. Post the permit placard on the job site in a visible location before beginning work. 11. Schedule all required inspections at key construction milestones by calling (907) 228-6620. 12. Pass all required inspections and receive Certificate of Occupancy for new construction or additions.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK?

Typical processing time is Plan review typically takes 10 to 30 business days for standard residential projects. Commercial or complex hillside/structural projects may take longer..

What work is exempt from building permits in Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK?

The following work is generally exempt: One-story detached accessory structures used as tool sheds, storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses, provided floor area does not exceed 200 square feet (confirm current threshold with Building Division); Fences not over 6 feet high; Retaining walls not over 4 feet from bottom of footing to top of wall, unless supporting a surcharge or adjacent to a public right-of-way; Ordinary repairs that do not affect structural elements, fire ratings, or life safety systems; Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work; Moveable cases, counters, and partitions not exceeding 5 feet 9 inches in height; Prefabricated above-ground swimming pools accessory to a one- or two-family dwelling less than 24 inches deep, not greater than 5,000 gallons, and installed entirely above ground; Platforms, walks, and driveways not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade and not over any basement or story below. Note: Even if no building permit is required, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical work may still require separate trade permits. Always confirm with the Building Division. Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from zoning and planning requirements.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK?

Inspections can be scheduled via: (907) 228-6620. At least 24–48 hours advance notice typically required..