Commercial building permit
What is the purpose of a commercial building permit?
A commercial building permit is required in unincorporated King County to construct a new commercial building structure or for certain tenant improvements to assure the development is consistent with building codes and other applicable regulations.
What activities require this permit?
A commercial building permit is required for:
- a new commercial building structure
- tenant improvements if you plan to finish or remodel an existing building shell
- mechanical (HVAC) or fire systems
- changes in occupancies
- installation of new or changes to existing signs and cellular antennas.
Typically, a commercial building permit will require other related permits, administered by DDES or by other agencies.
Please note: Commercial building permits often require State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) review. See SEPA Process* for more information.
How much will it cost?
See DDES' current fee schedule for an estimate.
Where can I get an application?
- Refer to the following packets for application materials:
- Request an application packet by mail by calling DDES customer service at 206-296-6600 or
- Pick up an application packet at DDES in Renton (see map and directions).
How do I submit my application?
Refer to pre-applications as a commercial building permit often requires a pre-application meeting prior to application submittal and to DDES customer information bulletin 53, Project management for building permits*, for information about projects that require a Project Manager. For more information, see Applying for a permit at DDES.
What is the timeline for processing a commercial building permit?
Varies depending on permit decision type (refer to King County Code Title 20*).
Notes / Comments
For more information:
- Type 1-4 Applicant Designation
- See Permits Related to Building Permits
- Bulletin #3: Demolition Permits*
- Bulletin #5: Tenant Improvements*
- Bulletin #8: Commercial/Multi-family Permit*
- Bulletin #13: Ancillary Fire Permits*
- Bulletin #26: SEPA Process*
- Bulletin #29: Drainage Review*
- Bulletin #36: Mechanical Permits*
- Bulletin #40: Financial Guarantees*
- Bulletin #42: Laws and Rules Governing Building and Development*
- Bulletin #44: Underground Fuel Tanks*
- Bulletin #53: Project Management for Building Permits*
- King County Road Standards
- Surface Water Design Manual
- Bulletin #34a: Road Design Variance*
- Bulletin #34b: Drainage Design Variances or Adjustments*
Legal authority
Title 16* of the King County Code
Administered by
DDES Building Services Division
Contact
For questions, please contact DDES customer service at 206-296-6600.
*Note: To view PDFs, free software from Adobe is required. See helpful hints for assistance.
To request information in alternate formats for people with disabilities, call 206-296-6600 or TTY 206-296-7217.