Rainier, WA Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

All properties within the incorporated City of Rainier.

Department

Building Department

Address

102 Rochester Street W, Rainier, WA 98576

Website

https://www.cityofrainierwa.org

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Download building permit application from website or obtain from City Hall.
2. Submit complete application with: site plan meeting submittal requirements, two sets of construction plans (11x17 minimum), stamped truss shop drawings (if required), Washington State Energy Code documents, and Certificate of Water Availability (if applicable).
3. Pay planning review and building department fees at time of application.
4. Application reviewed by multiple departments.
5. Permit issued upon approval.

Typical processing time: Varies based on application completeness and department coordination.

Source: Building Department

General Requirements

Building permit required for most construction, alterations, and changes within the City of Rainier.

Required Documents

• Completed building permit application
• Site plan meeting submittal requirements
• Two sets of legible construction plans (11x17 minimum)
• Stamped truss shop drawings (if required)
• Washington State Energy Code documents
• Certificate of Water Availability (if applicable)

Permit validity

Building permit application valid for one year from issuance.

Building code

2021 Washington State Building Code

Fees

Minimum permit fee

$20.00

Plan check fee

Planning review fees paid at application

Permit fee formula

Fees based on project valuation. See Chapter 2.48 Fee Schedule for planning and community development fees.

Payment note

Washington State Building Code fee: $4.50 per permit. Permit issuance fee: $20.00. Fire impact fees collected per Ordinance (effective March 5, 2018). No deposit required for new applications.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule (effective 2026).

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Specific exemptions listed in building codes

Important: Contact Building Department for specific exemption determination.

Inspections

How to Schedule

• Contact Building Department through City of Rainier (phone)

Scheduling deadline

24-hour notice required for all inspections.

Typical inspection sequence: Multiple inspections required throughout construction.

Additional Resources

• Building code: 2021 Washington State Building Code
• Verify contractor license: WA L&I Contractor Lookup
• Critical Areas Review (Wetlands, Streams, Steep Slopes, Floodplain, Gopher Soils)
• Environmental Health Review (Septic and Water Systems)
• Engineering Review (Access and Stormwater)
• Shoreline Master Program
• License lookup guide: Washington Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Washington Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Washington hub: Washington Contractor License & Permit Hub

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