George, WA Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

All properties within the incorporated City of George.

Department

City of George (via City Clerk's Office)

Address

102 Richmond Avenue, PO Box 5277, George, WA 98824

Phone

(509) 785-5081

Website

https://www.cityofgeorge.org

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Download the Building Permit Application (PDF form) from the city website at cityofgeorge.org/resources/.
2. Complete the application with all required project information.
3. Prepare construction drawings and site plans.
4. Submit application with required documents to City Hall.
5. Include estimated project cost and contractor information.
6. Pay applicable permit fees (contact city for current fee schedule).
7. City may coordinate with Grant County Health District for septic/water approvals.
8. Receive permit and any required approvals.

Typical processing time: Variable; dependent on project complexity and external agency coordination.

Source: City of George (via City Clerk's Office)

General Requirements

Building permits are required for new construction (residential and commercial), additions and alterations, remodeling projects, accessory structures, fences, demolition, and sign installation.

Required Documents

• Completed Building Permit Application
• Construction drawings/plans
• Site plan
• Property legal description
• Estimated project cost
• Contractor information (if applicable)
• Agent Authorization Form (if someone else applies on your behalf)

Permit validity

Variable; confirm with City Hall.

Building code

2021 Washington State Building Codes (effective March 15, 2024)

Fees

Minimum permit fee

Contact City Hall for current fee schedule

Permit fee formula

Fee schedule not publicly available online. Contact (509) 785-5081 for current rates. The Comprehensive Plan indicates fees may be reduced or waived for exterior rehabilitation efforts that utilize Colonial theme.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Accessory structures: One-story detached structures under 200 sq ft (tool sheds, playhouses)
• Fences: Not over 7 feet high
• Retaining walls: Not over 4 feet in height (measured from bottom of footing to top) unless supporting a surcharge
• Water tanks: On grade, <=5,000 gallons, height-to-diameter ratio <=2:1
• Sidewalks/Driveways: Not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade, not over basement/story below
• Interior finish work: Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops
• Pools: Prefabricated pools <24 inches deep, <5,000 gallons
• Playground equipment: Swings and equipment accessory to one- and two-family dwellings
• Window awnings: Projecting <=54 inches from exterior wall, no additional support needed

Important: Exemption from permit requirements does not authorize work to be done in violation of building codes or other ordinances. Always verify with City Hall before proceeding.

Inspections

How to Schedule

• (509) 785-5081 (phone)

Scheduling deadline

Contact City of George or Grant County Building Division to schedule. Grant County: Inspections called after 4 p.m. will NOT be scheduled for next day.

Inspection hours

Monday-Friday; confirm current hours with City Hall

Typical inspection sequence: Typical sequence: Foundation/footing, Framing/rough-in, Plumbing rough-in, Mechanical rough-in, Electrical rough-in (WA State L&I), Insulation, Final inspection.

Additional Resources

• Building code: 2021 Washington State Building Codes (effective March 15, 2024)
• Verify contractor license: WA L&I Contractor Lookup
• License lookup guide: Washington Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Washington Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Washington hub: Washington Contractor License & Permit Hub

Other cities in Grant County