Permits and building

Building permits, land use regulations and other services are administered by the Department of Development and Environmental Services. Efficiencies and a new customer service program are part of the department's efforts to give customers the best service possible.

• Department of Development and Environmental Services (DDES)
• Frequently asked questions about permitting and land use
• Property research
• Critical Areas Ordinances (CAO)
• Code enforcement
• DDES records center (permit records for properties in unincorporated King County)
• DDES newsletter
• DDES customer information bulletins

Programs

• Apply for free blackberry clearing and/or home fire safety clearing permit
• Submit a code enforcement complaint on line. If our offices are closed and the activity you want to report may cause environmental damage or create a safety concern, don't hesitate to call 1-888-437-4771 immediately. Someone is on duty 24 hours a day to receive emergency complaints. To make a code enforcement complaint during business hours, simply call 206-296-6680.
• Green building and low impact development (PDF, 144K)
• Free home earthquake retrofit permits
• Stewardship planning programs in King County
• CAO educational presentations
• Sustainable building