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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Bridgeport
A building permit is required for new construction, additions, alterations affecting structure, mechanical, plumbing, and gas system installation, and demolition.
- Exempt One-story detached accessory structures (tool sheds, playhouses) up to 200 sq ft with no plumbing or sleeping accommodations
- Exempt Minor repairs and maintenance
- Exempt Minor plumbing repairs (stopping leaks, clearing stoppages)
- Exempt Minor mechanical repairs (replacement parts)
- Exempt Portable fuel-cell or heating appliances not connected to fixed systems
Note: Contact City Hall for any Bridgeport-specific local exemptions. Even exempt work must comply with setback requirements, shoreline regulations (Columbia River shoreline), and other local ordinances.
- Completed Building Permit Application
- Site plan
- Construction plans (floor plan, elevations, foundation, framing)
- Energy compliance documentation (per 2021 IECC with WA amendments)
- Building code
- 2021 International Building Code (IBC), IRC, IMC, IPC, IFGC, IECC, and IWUIC with Washington State amendments, effective March 15, 2024. Bridgeport Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 744 (passed July 16, 2025).
- Owner-builder
- Property owners may perform their own work without contractor registration for personal-use projects (not for resale).
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold valid Washington State L&I registration. No permit may be issued for work by a third-party contractor unless the contractor is registered with L&I and in good standing.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Download the Building Permit Application (PDF) from the city website or pick up at City Hall.
- 02 Prepare required documents: site plan, construction plans (floor plan, elevations, foundation, framing), and energy compliance documentation per 2021 IECC with WA amendments.
- 03 Submit in person at 1206 Columbia Ave during office hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM).
- 04 Bridgeport contracts with Blades Code Services for plan review and inspections.
- 05 Upon approval and fee payment, permit is issued.
- 06 Schedule inspections through Blades Code Services.
Fee schedule
Bridgeport building permit fees
Contact City Hall at (509) 686-4041 for the current fee schedule. State surcharge of $6.50 per residential permit or $25.00 per commercial permit applies. Online payments available through InvoiceCloud: https://www.invoicecloud.com/bridgeport
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (509) 686-4041 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM
Typical sequence: Inspections are conducted by Blades Code Services under contract with the City of Bridgeport. Typical inspection stages: Foundation/footing before pour, Framing before insulation, Mechanical and plumbing rough-in, Final inspection (required before occupancy).
Frequently asked
Common questions about Bridgeport permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Bridgeport, WA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Bridgeport, WA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Bridgeport, WA? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Bridgeport, WA? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Bridgeport, WA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City Hall (contracted with Blades Code Services) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.