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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for College Place
Building permits are required for new construction, additions, alterations, remodels, and most structural changes.
- Exempt One-story detached accessory storage structures under applicable square footage threshold
- Exempt Fences not exceeding 7 feet in height
- Exempt Retaining walls not exceeding 4 feet in height (without surcharge)
- Exempt Painting, wallpapering, and similar finish work
- Exempt Flooring, cabinet, and fixture replacement not involving structural work
Note: Exemptions do not include electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work—separate L&I electrical permits and city trade permits are required for those systems. Confirm specific exemptions with Building Official before beginning any work.
- Completed permit application
- Site plan drawn to scale
- Construction plans drawn to scale
- Energy Code compliance forms
- Engineering stamps for structural elements (trusses, beams, non-prescriptive designs)
- Any required calculations or design documentation
- Building code
- 2021 IBC with Washington State amendments
- Permit validity
- Permits expire if work is not commenced or substantially progressed within applicable timeframes. Confirm expiration rules when permit is issued.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders must comply with all permit requirements and code standards.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold a valid Washington State contractor registration with L&I. Business license requirements—confirm with the city.
Source: Community Development Department (Building and Planning) ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Varies by complexity; contact Building Official for estimate. Most residential permits are completed within 2-4 weeks.
- 01 Review the appropriate Community Development department page for your permit type.
- 02 Download the applicable application form from the city's Applications and Permits page.
- 03 Assemble a complete permit package: application, site plan, construction plans, energy code compliance documents, and any engineering or calculations.
- 04 Email the complete package to planbuild@cpwa.us or submit in person at City Hall (625 S. College Ave.).
- 05 Staff reviews for completeness; applicant may be asked to supply missing information.
- 06 Building Official (Scott Hall) reviews plans for code compliance.
- 07 Pay applicable fees as determined by the city's Administrative Fees Resolution.
- 08 Permit issued upon approval.
- 09 Schedule inspections through the Building Official at (509) 394-8522.
Typical processing time: Varies by complexity; contact Building Official for estimate. Most residential permits are completed within 2-4 weeks.
Source: Community Development Department (Building and Planning) ↗
Fee schedule
College Place building permit fees
Contact Building Official Scott Hall at (509) 394-8522 or shall@cpwa.us for current fee schedule and estimates
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Building Official Scott Hall: (509) 394-8522 (phone)
- shall@cpwa.us (email)
- Scheduling deadline
- Minimum 24-hour notice recommended
- Inspection hours
- Monday–Thursday 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM; Friday 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Time windows
- During business hours; confirm specific availability when scheduling
Typical sequence: Typical sequence: Footing/Foundation, Under-slab plumbing (where applicable), Framing, Plumbing rough-in, Mechanical rough-in, Insulation, Final inspection. Specific required inspections noted on issued permit.
Contact Building Official to discuss inspection methods and availability.
Source: Community Development Department (Building and Planning) ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about College Place permits
01 Do I need a building permit in College Place, WA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in College Place, WA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in College Place, WA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in College Place, WA? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in College Place, WA? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in College Place, WA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Community Development Department (Building and Planning) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.