City Building Permits

Kirkland, WA Building Permit Guide

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

Washington King County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

All properties within the incorporated City of Kirkland.

Department: Development Services Center (Planning and Building Department)
Address: Kirkland City Hall - Upper Floor, 123 Fifth Avenue, Kirkland, WA 98033
Phone: 425-587-3600
Website: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/Departments/Development-Services-Center

Online Permit Portal

Open MyBuildingPermit.com

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

Additional resources:

Kirkland Activity Map

Application Process

Determine if permit is required per Kirkland Municipal Code Section 21.06.205
Apply online through MyBuildingPermit.com
Complete application form with all required information
Upload PDF plans and supporting documents
Pay fees online
City staff reviews application
Receive electronic permit issuance upon approval

Typical processing time: Varies by permit type and project complexity.

Source: Development Services Center (Planning and Building Department)

General Requirements

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

Required Documents

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

Permit validity: Varies by permit type.
Building code: 2021 Washington State Building Code with local amendments
Contractor requirements: Contractors must hold a valid Washington State L&I registration and a current Kirkland business license.

Fees

Permit fee formula: Based on project valuation and type
Payment note: Payment through MyBuildingPermit.com online

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule (effective Current).

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Work exempt by International Residential Code
Certain minor repairs and alterations

Important: Check specific exemption list on Kirkland website per Kirkland Municipal Code Section 21.06.215.

Inspections

How to Schedule

MyBuildingPermit.com (online)

Inspection hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM (closed mornings for staff meetings)

Additional Resources

Building code: 2021 Washington State Building Code with local amendments
Verify contractor license: WA L&I Contractor Lookup
Kirkland Activity Map
Virtual Appointments
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 Development Services Center (Planning and Building Department) before applying.

Need help with your project?

Navigating permits in Kirkland 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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