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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Centralia
A building permit is required for all construction within the City of Centralia and its Urban Growth Area.
- Exempt Minor cosmetic updates including painting, flooring replacement, small non-structural repairs
- Exempt Sheds 200 sq ft or smaller (verify with City)
Note: Verify all exemptions with the Building Division before proceeding.
- Completed Building Permit Application
- Three (3) copies of all plans
- Plot Plan/Site Plan showing setbacks, easements, wells, septic, critical areas
- Building Plans drawn to scale (1/4 inch = 1 foot or greater)
- Energy Code Requirements Form
- Utilities Connection Form (if applicable)
- Septic System Approval from Lewis County Environmental Health (if applicable)
- Contractor Registration Verification
- Building code
- 2021 International Building Code, 2021 International Residential Code
- Permit validity
- Permits expire if work not started within 180 days or abandoned for 180 days.
- Contractor requirements
- Valid City of Centralia Business License and Washington State L&I registration required for all contractors. Registration must be verified before permit issuance per WAC 296-200A-110.
Source: Community Development Department, Building Division ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Varies; pre-application conferences held weekly. Allow 2-4 weeks for plan review after submission.
- 01 Pre-application conference (optional but recommended for complex projects) with Site Plan Review Committee at Centralia Public Works Office (1100 N. Tower), held every Monday at 10:00 AM. Submit by 3 PM Wednesday preceding the meeting.
- 02 Submit completed building permit application with checklist and all required documents.
- 03 Submit three (3) copies of all plans (Community Development, City Utilities, Contractor).
- 04 Planning and Engineering Divisions review applications; Building Division reviews for code compliance.
- 05 Pay plan check fee if required at time of application. Residential plan review is 50% of building permit fee; Commercial is 65%.
- 06 Respond to correction list if issued.
- 07 Pay remaining permit fees upon approval.
- 08 Permit is issued and work may commence.
Typical processing time: Varies; pre-application conferences held weekly. Allow 2-4 weeks for plan review after submission.
Source: Community Development Department, Building Division ↗
Fee schedule
Effective January 1, 2026
3.5% fee for Debit/Credit Card payments
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 24-hour Building Inspection Request Line: (360) 330-7663 (phone)
Typical sequence: Required inspections typically include: Foundation inspection (prior to concrete placement), Framing inspection (before insulation/drywall), Plumbing/Mechanical rough-in, Insulation inspection, Final building inspection. Final inspection requirements must be met by: Electrical (WA State L&I if applicable), City of Centralia Building Department, Fire Department (if applicable), City Engineering Department (if applicable). Allow at least 3 working days for final inspections process.
Source: Community Development Department, Building Division ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Centralia permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Centralia, WA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Centralia, WA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Centralia, WA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Centralia, WA? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Centralia, WA? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Centralia, WA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Community Development Department, Building Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.