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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Long Beach
A building permit is required for construction projects within the City of Long Beach.
- Exempt One-story detached accessory buildings (tool sheds, storage sheds) with roof area not exceeding 120 square feet
- Exempt Platforms, walks, and driveways not more than 30 inches above grade
- Exempt Fences 6 feet or shorter in height
- Exempt General maintenance, painting, floor covering, cabinetry (non-structural)
Note: Long Beach maintains a detailed 'Work Exempt From Building Permit' document; request from Community Development. Confirm edge cases with the Building Division before proceeding.
- Completed Building Permit Application
- Site plan
- Construction drawings
- Engineering documentation (as required by project type)
- Building code
- Washington State Building Code, current edition (Title 10, Chapter 2 of City Code; Title 51 of the Washington Administrative Code).
- Permit validity
- Permits expire if work does not begin within applicable timeframe; confirm current policy with Building Division.
- Owner-builder
- Confirm owner-builder eligibility with the Building Division.
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors must be registered with Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). Verify contractor registration at https://secure.lni.wa.gov/verify/ before engagement.
Application process
Typical processing: Timeframe varies; contact Community Development for current processing schedule.
- 01 Contact Community Development at (360) 642-4421 or inspector@longbeachwa.gov to confirm permit requirements for your project.
- 02 Obtain and complete the Building Permit Application form.
- 03 Prepare required supporting documents (site plan, construction drawings, engineering if required).
- 04 Submit application with all required documents to the Building Division (in person or by email).
- 05 Pay applicable fees per fee schedule (contact for current rates).
- 06 Receive issued permit; permit must remain on-site throughout the project duration.
- 07 Schedule required inspections with at least 24 hours advance notice.
- 08 Complete all required inspections; final inspection required before occupancy.
Typical processing time: Timeframe varies; contact Community Development for current processing schedule.
Fee schedule
Long Beach building permit fees
Fees due at application submittal. Contact Building Division for current payment methods and options.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- inspector@longbeachwa.gov (email)
- (360) 642-4421 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Give at least 24 hours advance notice.
- Inspection hours
- Contact Building Division for current office hours.
Typical sequence: Required inspections at various construction phases as listed on permit. Final inspection required before occupancy. Long Beach also performs building inspections for Ilwaco under interlocal agreement.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Long Beach permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Long Beach, WA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Long Beach, WA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Long Beach, WA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Long Beach, WA? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Long Beach, WA? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Long Beach, WA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Community Development — Building Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.