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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Anacortes
Building permits required for construction within City of Anacortes
Note: Contact PCED Department for specific exemption information; generally follows State Building Code exemptions with local amendments
- Completed permit application via SmartGov
- Site plan showing property location and setbacks
- Construction drawings (floor plans, elevations, sections)
- Stormwater site plan (required for complete application)
- Zoning and land use compliance documentation
- Energy code compliance documentation
- Specifications and construction details
- Building code
- International Building Codes with Washington State amendments; subject to new development regulations effective January 1, 2026
- Permit validity
- Application expires if not approved within specified timeframe
- Owner-builder
- Verify owner-builder requirements with PCED; some work may require licensed contractors
- Contractor requirements
- Licensed contractors with Washington State L&I registration required
Source: City of Anacortes Planning, Community, and Economic Development (PCED) Department ↗
Application process
Typical processing: First review timelines vary by permit type; contact PCED for project-specific schedule
- 01 Register for account on SmartGov portal at https://ci-anacortes-wa.smartgovcommunity.com/ (click Sign Up)
- 02 Review applicable permit submittal checklist before starting application
- 03 Prepare electronic documents following submittal requirements
- 04 Submit application through portal with all required documents
- 05 Pay fees online through portal
- 06 Track application status and respond to staff comments
- 07 Request inspections through portal after permit issuance
Typical processing time: First review timelines vary by permit type; contact PCED for project-specific schedule
Source: City of Anacortes Planning, Community, and Economic Development (PCED) Department ↗
Fee schedule
Anacortes building permit fees
Payment required at time of submittal through SmartGov portal
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- SmartGov portal (online)
- 360-293-1901 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Contact PCED for current inspection hours
Typical sequence: Inspections required at various construction phases; final inspection required for occupancy approval
Source: City of Anacortes Planning, Community, and Economic Development (PCED) Department ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Anacortes permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Anacortes, WA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Anacortes, WA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Anacortes, WA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Anacortes, WA? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Anacortes, WA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Anacortes Planning, Community, and Economic Development (PCED) Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.