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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Asotin County
The Building and Planning Department requires permits for development throughout unincorporated Asotin County, including new residential and commercial construction, additions and structural alterations, decks, porches, carports, and attached structures, accessory buildings (beyond exempt thresholds), re-roofing and exterior cladding changes, demolition, placement or installation of manufactured/mobile homes, septic system installation or repair, and land use permits related to boundary lines and occupancy changes.
- Exempt Minor alterations to residential occupancies (Group R-3) with total valuation not exceeding $1,500 in any 12-month period, not affecting structural components or reducing egress, light, air, or ventilation (exemption does not include electrical, plumbing, or mechanical)
- Exempt One-story detached accessory buildings (tool sheds, storage sheds, playhouses) with projected roof area of 120 square feet or less
- Exempt Retaining walls 4 feet or less in height (bottom of footing to top of wall) not supporting a surcharge or impounding liquids
- Exempt Fences within locally specified height limits
- Exempt Painting, floor covering, cabinet installation, and similar interior finish work
- Exempt Concrete patios and flatwork at ground grade
Note: Even exempt work must comply with building codes and county zoning regulations (setbacks, height limits, land use). Contact the department to confirm current exemption thresholds, as county ordinance may refine state defaults.
- Completed permit application
- Site/plot plan (showing property lines, setbacks, structure location, access, drainage)
- Construction plans (floor plan, elevations, structural details, foundation)
- WA L&I contractor registration number (if using a contractor)
- Geotechnical report (may be required for steep slopes, unstable soils, or proximity to the Snake River canyon rim — verify with department)
- Septic system approval (if applicable — contact Asotin County Environmental Health)
- Building code
- 2021 International Building Code (IBC) with Washington amendments, effective March 15, 2024
- Owner-builder
- Property owners may apply for their own permits. Washington State contractor registration is required for all contractor work.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must be registered with Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) under RCW 18.27. Registration requires active bonding ($30,000 for general contractors; $15,000 for specialty contractors as of July 1, 2024) and workers' compensation compliance.
Application process
Typical processing: Time varies by project complexity; contact the Building and Planning Department at (509) 243-2020.
- 01 Verify the property is in unincorporated Asotin County using the county parcel map (not within Clarkston or City of Asotin city limits).
- 02 Obtain permit forms by downloading from asotincountywa.gov/279/Permit-Information-Forms or picking up at 95 2nd Street, Suite 2.
- 03 Prepare supporting materials including site plan, construction drawings, contractor registration number, and any required engineering documentation.
- 04 Submit application to the Building and Planning Department in person or by mail to P.O. Box 610, Asotin, WA 99402.
- 05 Staff review for code compliance, zoning, setbacks, and any required land use approvals.
- 06 Fees are assessed and paid at permit issuance.
- 07 Permit card is issued and posted on-site.
- 08 Call 24 hours in advance at (509) 243-2020 to schedule each inspection stage.
- 09 Final inspection is required for certificate of occupancy on new construction.
Typical processing time: Time varies by project complexity; contact the Building and Planning Department at (509) 243-2020.
Fee schedule
Asotin County building permit fees
Checks are made payable to the Asotin County Clerk. Fees are generally charged to all applicants including government agencies, unless a specific statutory exemption applies. Contact the Building and Planning Department at (509) 243-2020 to obtain a current fee estimate before submitting an application. A Washington State surcharge applies to all permits.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (509) 243-2020 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Inspections must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.
- Inspection hours
- Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Typical sequence: Typical inspection stages (residential new construction): footing/foundation (before concrete pour), framing and sheathing (after rough framing, before insulation), rough plumbing and mechanical, insulation, wallboard/sheathing (if required), final inspection (all work complete, prior to occupancy). Approved plans and permit card must be on-site at all inspections.
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Asotin County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Asotin County, WA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Asotin County, WA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Asotin County, WA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Asotin County, WA? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Asotin County, WA? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Asotin County, WA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Asotin County Building and Planning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.