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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Palouse
Building permits are required for new construction, additions, structural alterations, full roofing replacements, mechanical and plumbing system work, and demolition.
- Exempt Palouse follows Washington State minimum exemptions under RCW 19.27.060(7): the standard $1,500 minor work exemption applies for residential alterations that do not affect structural components, create a bedroom, or reduce egress/light/air/ventilation, and that exclude electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work.
Note: Specific local exemptions should be confirmed with City Hall at (509) 878-1811. Exemption from building permit does not exempt work from plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permit requirements.
- Completed permit application (obtained from City Hall)
- Site plan
- Construction drawings as required by project scope
- Building code
- 2021 International Building Code (IBC), 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) with Washington State amendments (effective March 15, 2024). Palouse is required to enforce Washington State Building Code per RCW 19.27.050.
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors performing paid construction work must be registered with Washington State L&I (RCW 18.27). Registration numbers must appear on permit applications, vehicles, and advertising. Bond requirements (2026): General Contractor $30,000; Specialty Contractor $15,000.
Source: City of Palouse (Building permits administered through City Hall; contract building inspector) ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Not published; contact City Hall for estimate.
- 01 Contact City Hall at (509) 878-1811 or cityadmin@palousewa.gov to discuss project scope and determine permit requirements.
- 02 Obtain permit application forms from City Hall (not available for download on city website as of research date).
- 03 Complete application and gather supporting documents: site plan, construction drawings as required by project scope.
- 04 Submit completed application and documents to City Hall, East 120 Main Street.
- 05 Staff will route application to Building Inspector Jacob Billington for plan review.
- 06 Pay permit fees at City Hall upon approval.
- 07 Permit is issued; post on job site.
- 08 Schedule required inspections through City Hall or directly with the building inspector.
- 09 Obtain final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy for applicable projects.
Typical processing time: Not published; contact City Hall for estimate.
Source: City of Palouse (Building permits administered through City Hall; contract building inspector) ↗
Fee schedule
Palouse building permit fees
Contact City Hall for fee information and payment methods.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (509) 878-1811 (City Hall) or jacobbuildinginspection@gmail.com (Jacob Billington, Building Inspector) (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Advance notice of at least one business day is recommended.
- Inspection hours
- Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Typical sequence: Building inspections conducted by contract building inspector Jacob Billington. Certificate of Occupancy issued upon final inspection approval.
Source: City of Palouse (Building permits administered through City Hall; contract building inspector) ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Palouse permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Palouse, WA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Palouse, WA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Palouse, WA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Palouse, WA? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Palouse, WA? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Palouse, WA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Palouse (Building permits administered through City Hall; contract building inspector) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.