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§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Redmond
A building permit is required for most construction within the City of Redmond.
Sidewalks, driveways, detached decks under 30 inches above grade
One-story detached accessory structures under 200 sq ft
Retaining walls under 4 feet in height (not supporting surcharge)
Window replacement in existing openings (not altering size)
Interior door replacement in existing frames
- Exempt Sidewalks, driveways, detached decks under 30 inches above grade
- Exempt One-story detached accessory structures under 200 sq ft
- Exempt Retaining walls under 4 feet in height (not supporting surcharge)
- Exempt Window replacement in existing openings (not altering size)
- Exempt Interior door replacement in existing frames
Note: See Work Exempt from Permit handout for complete list. Verify with DSC before proceeding.
Required documents
- Completed permit application
- Site plan
- Construction plans (PDF format on USB drive for in-person)
- Project specifications
- Architectural plans
- Structural 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: Over-the-counter (OTC) permits may be issued same day if complete.
- 01 Determine if your project requires a permit
- 02 Prepare documents in PDF format
- 03 For in-person submittal, prepare USB drive with PDFs (paper plans NOT accepted)
- 04 Submit application online or in-person at DSC
- 05 Pay intake fees at counter or online
- 06 Staff review process
- 07 Permit issuance upon approval
Typical processing time: Over-the-counter (OTC) permits may be issued same day if complete.
§ 04
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
How to schedule
- Online permit portal (online)
- 425-556-2495 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Typical sequence: Trade permits must be approved/finaled before building permit can be finaled.
§ 05
Frequently asked
Common questions about Redmond permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Redmond, WA? ▸
A building permit is required for most construction within the City of Redmond.
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Redmond, WA? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Redmond, WA, follow these steps: 1. Determine if your project requires a permit 2. Prepare documents in PDF format 3. For in-person submittal, prepare USB drive with PDFs (paper plans NOT accepted) 4. Submit application online or in-person at DSC 5. Pay intake fees at counter or online 6. Staff review process 7. Permit issuance upon approval
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Redmond, WA? ▸
Building permit processing times in Redmond, WA typically run Over-the-counter (OTC) permits may be issued same day if complete.. Timelines can vary based on project complexity and current department workload.
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Redmond, WA? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit in Redmond, WA. The following work is generally exempt: Sidewalks, driveways, detached decks under 30 inches above grade; One-story detached accessory structures under 200 sq ft; Retaining walls under 4 feet in height (not supporting surcharge); Window replacement in existing openings (not altering size); Interior door replacement in existing frames. Note: See Work Exempt from Permit handout for complete list. Verify with DSC before proceeding. When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Redmond, WA? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Redmond, WA via: Online permit portal, 425-556-2495.
last verified April 2026
source Development Services Center (DSC) ↗
entry id permits/washington/king/redmond
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Development Services Center (DSC) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.