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§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Federal Way
A building permit is required for most construction within the City of Federal Way.
Per state building code exemptions
- Exempt Per state building code exemptions
Note: Verify exemptions with Permit Center before proceeding.
Required documents
- Completed permit application
- Site plan
- Construction plans (PDF format)
- Architectural plans
- Mechanical/plumbing plans
- Building code
- 2021 Washington State Building Code
- Permit validity
- Varies by permit type.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold a valid Washington State L&I registration.
§ 03
Application process
Typical processing: Varies by permit type.
- 01 Access MyBuildingPermit.com (current portal as of Oct 20, 2023)
- 02 Create account as property owner or contractor
- 03 Select Federal Way as jurisdiction
- 04 Complete online application forms
- 05 Upload PDF plans and supporting documents
- 06 Pay fees online
- 07 City staff reviews application
- 08 Request inspections online
- 09 Receive electronic permit upon approval
Typical processing time: Varies by permit type.
Source: Community and Economic Development - Permit Center ↗
§ 04
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
§ 05
Frequently asked
Common questions about Federal Way permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Federal Way, WA? ▸
A building permit is required for most construction within the City of Federal Way.
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Federal Way, WA? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Federal Way, WA, follow these steps: 1. Access MyBuildingPermit.com (current portal as of Oct 20, 2023) 2. Create account as property owner or contractor 3. Select Federal Way as jurisdiction 4. Complete online application forms 5. Upload PDF plans and supporting documents 6. Pay fees online 7. City staff reviews application 8. Request inspections online 9. Receive electronic permit upon approval
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Federal Way, WA? ▸
Building permit processing times in Federal Way, WA typically run Varies by permit type.. Timelines can vary based on project complexity and current department workload.
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Federal Way, WA? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit in Federal Way, WA. The following work is generally exempt: Per state building code exemptions. Note: Verify exemptions with Permit Center before proceeding. When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Federal Way, WA? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Federal Way, WA via: MyBuildingPermit.com, IVR system.
last verified April 2026
source Community and Economic Development - Permit Center ↗
entry id permits/washington/king/federal-way
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Community and Economic Development - Permit Center before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.