Pullman, WA Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

All properties within the incorporated City of Pullman, including Washington State University campus and surrounding areas.

Department

Building & Protective Inspections, Community Development Department

Address

190 SE Crestview Street, Pullman, WA 99163

Phone

(509) 334-4555

Email

pwcd-admin@pullman-wa.gov

Website

https://www.pullman-wa.gov/services/community_development/

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Determine the permit type required (simple projects like reroofing, re-siding, window replacement vs. complex projects with structural changes).
2. For simple projects: apply online via Civic Access Portal or over the counter; permits typically issued same-day or next business day.
3. For complex projects: submit detailed construction plans through the portal or in person; plan review takes four to six weeks.
4. For single-family/duplex: submit completed application, construction plans (structural, architectural, mechanical, plumbing), plot plan, IRC submittal documents, and Contractor Waiver Form if owner-performing.
5. Pay permit fees through the online portal.
6. Upon approval, receive permit and post on job site.
7. Schedule inspections through the Civic Access Portal or by phone at (509) 338-3220.
8. Obtain final inspection approval and Certificate of Occupancy for new structures and major additions.

Typical processing time: Same-day or next business day for simple permits; four to six weeks for complex projects with plan review. Reroofing, re-siding, window replacement: typically same-day to next business day.

Source: Building & Protective Inspections, Community Development Department

General Requirements

Building permits are required for all new construction, additions, most alterations and remodels, and any work affecting structural components, fire protection systems, or zoning compliance.

Required Documents

• Completed permit application
• Construction plans (structural framing, architectural, mechanical, plumbing sheets for complex projects)
• Plot plan showing property lines and setbacks
• IRC submittal documents (for new homes)
• Contractor Waiver Form (if owner-performing)
• Solar Permit Checklist (if applicable)

Permit validity

Permit becomes null and void if work is not started within 180 days of issuance or if work is suspended/abandoned for 180 days or more.

Building code

2021 International Building Code (IBC), 2021 International Residential Code (IRC), 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC), 2021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) — all with Washington State amendments (effective March 15, 2024).

Owner-builder

Property owners may self-perform work by submitting a signed Contractor Waiver Form in lieu of contractor registration.

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.

Fees

Plan check fee

Included in valuation-based calculation

Permit fee formula

Valuation-based using ICC Building Valuation Data table; fees calculated by multiplying square footage by cost-per-square-foot, then applying IBC permit fee schedule.

Payment note

Payment made online through Civic Access Portal.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule (effective March 17, 2024).

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Accessory storage structures: one-story detached tool/storage sheds, playhouses, similar uses with floor area not exceeding 120 sq ft (IBC) or 200 sq ft (IRC).
• Fences: not exceeding 7 feet in height.
• Retaining walls: not exceeding 4 feet in height (measured from bottom of footing to top), not supporting surcharge.
• Sidewalks and driveways: on private property, not more than 30 inches above grade.
• Decks: not exceeding 200 sq ft, not more than 30 inches above grade, not attached to dwelling, not serving as required egress (IRC only).
• Finish work: painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work.
• Minor alterations: valuation under $1,500 in any 12-month period, provided work does not create a bedroom, affect structural components, or reduce egress/light/air/ventilation.
• Prefabricated pools: under 24 inches deep and under 5,000 gallons.
• Residential playground equipment: swings and similar accessories.

Important: Exemption from building permit does not exempt work from plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permit requirements. All work must still conform to applicable codes.

Inspections

How to Schedule

• Civic Access Portal (online)
• (509) 338-3220 (phone)

Scheduling deadline

Same-day inspections: requests must be received before 9:00 a.m. Late requests (after 9:00 a.m.) are scheduled for the next business day.

Inspection hours

Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Time windows

Morning: 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.; Afternoon: 1:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Note: Inspections start slightly later on Tuesdays due to weekly staff meeting.

Typical inspection sequence: Typical residential new construction sequence: Foundation/footing before pour, Framing (before insulation), Rough plumbing/mechanical/electrical (coordinate electrical with L&I), Insulation, Final inspection/Certificate of Occupancy. Commercial projects include additional stages (shear wall, envelope, structural).

Additional Resources

• Building code: 2021 International Building Code (IBC), 2021 International Residential Code (IRC), 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC), 2021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) — all with Washington State amendments (effective March 15, 2024).
• Verify contractor license: WA L&I Contractor Lookup
• Owner-builder rules: View rules
• Washington State L&I (Electrical Permits & Inspections)
• Community Development Department
• License lookup guide: Washington Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Washington Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Washington hub: Washington Contractor License & Permit Hub

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