On this page 6
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Olympia
Building permit required for all construction, additions, alterations, and changes of occupancy within the City of Olympia.
- Exempt Agricultural/deer fences up to 8 feet tall (fee exempt)
- Exempt Other exemptions per Olympia Municipal Code (OMC) Chapter 4.36
Note: Contact CPD for specific exemption determinations. Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from zoning, setback, and code requirements.
- Completed permit application
- Site plan
- Construction drawings
- Project scope information
- Energy code compliance forms
- Contractor registration documentation
- Building code
- 2021 Building Codes (effective March 15, 2024)
- Permit validity
- Incomplete permit applications are valid for 30 days only, then cancelled if not submitted completely.
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors must be registered with Washington State L&I. Proof of contractor registration required.
Application process
Typical processing: 48-72 hour response time for application status after submission; plan review duration varies by building size and complexity.
- 01 Review permit application checklists available on the online portal.
- 02 Create a portal account (required for applicants to submit applications, plans, and request inspections).
- 03 Submit complete application and required documents online.
- 04 Pay plan review fees at time of submittal.
- 05 Respond to plan review comments if needed.
- 06 Pay remaining permit fees and receive permit issuance.
- 07 Schedule inspections throughout construction via portal or phone.
Typical processing time: 48-72 hour response time for application status after submission; plan review duration varies by building size and complexity.
Fee schedule
Effective 2025-2026
Technology fee: 4.1% of permit/plan review fees. State Building Code Council surcharge: $4.50 per permit. Temporary Certificate of Occupancy: Residential (single-family): $113.72; Commercial/multi-family (interior remodel): $170.58; Commercial/multi-family (new construction): $568.61. Supplemental plan review: $199.01 per hour.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective 2025-2026) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Online portal (online)
- (360) 753-8314 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Cutoff time for next-day inspections is 5:00 PM.
- Inspection hours
- Inspection hours: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Inspector availability: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM.
Typical sequence: Required inspections: footing, foundation, underslab rough-in, framing, rough electrical, rough plumbing, rough mechanical, insulation, final building, final electrical, final plumbing, final mechanical, blower door test.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Olympia permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Olympia, WA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Olympia, WA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Olympia, WA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Olympia, WA? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Olympia, WA? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Olympia, WA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Community Planning and Development (CPD) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.