City Building Permits

Federal Way, WA Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Federal Way, Washington. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Washington King County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

All properties within the incorporated City of Federal Way.

Department: Community and Economic Development - Permit Center
Phone: (253) 835-2607
Website

Online Permit Portal

Open MyBuildingPermit.com

Platform: MyBuildingPermit.com • Account required: Yes • Submission: Online only

Additional resources:

MyBuildingPermit Help

Application Process

Access MyBuildingPermit.com (current portal as of Oct 20, 2023)
Create account as property owner or contractor
Select Federal Way as jurisdiction
Complete online application forms
Upload PDF plans and supporting documents
Pay fees online
City staff reviews application
Request inspections online
Receive electronic permit upon approval

Typical processing time: Varies by permit type.

Source: Community and Economic Development - Permit Center

General Requirements

A building permit is required for most construction within the City of Federal Way.

Required Documents

Completed permit application
Site plan
Construction plans (PDF format)
Architectural plans
Mechanical/plumbing plans

Permit validity: Varies by permit type.
Building code: 2021 Washington State Building Code
Contractor requirements: Contractors must hold a valid Washington State L&I registration.

Fees

Payment note: Payment through MyBuildingPermit online

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Per state building code exemptions

Important: Verify exemptions with Permit Center before proceeding.

Inspections

How to Schedule

MyBuildingPermit.com (online)
IVR system (phone)

Additional Resources

Building code: 2021 Washington State Building Code
Verify contractor license: WA L&I Contractor Lookup
MyBuildingPermit Help
License lookup guide: Washington Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: Washington Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
Washington hub: Washington Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the Community and Economic Development - Permit Center before applying.

Need help with your project?

Navigating permits in Federal Way can be complicated.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

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