Federal Way, WA Building Permits: Review Times, Process and Costs
Federal Way, WA building permit timeline: Plan review takes 5 to 30 days depending on project type. Contact the building department for current processing times.
Building permit review in Federal Way, WA typically takes between 5 and 30 days depending on project type and complexity. Here is what you need to know about permit timelines, costs, and the review process in Federal Way.
Federal Way Plan Review Timeline
- Initial processing of your permit application usually takes between 3 to 5 days before it is assigned to a plan reviewer in Federal Way.
- Following assignment, the review of the initial submission typically spans 20 to 30 days for evaluation and feedback or approval.
- For any follow-up submissions due to corrections or comments, the review process generally takes around 7 to 10 days.
Last verified: June 2025 | Source: Federal Way Building Department
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What Building Permits Do You Need in Federal Way?
Federal Way requires permits for most construction activity. The type of permit depends on your project scope.
Commercial Permits
- New commercial construction: full plan review with the longest timeline
- Tenant improvements and interior buildouts: plan review for structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical changes
- Change of use: required when converting building use (for example, retail to restaurant)
- Shell and core: separate from tenant improvement permits
Residential Permits
- New home construction: full plan review including structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
- Additions and remodels: required when modifying structure or adding square footage
- Decks, pools, fences: separate permits with typically faster review
Trade Permits
Individual trade permits are typically required for electrical, plumbing, mechanical (HVAC), and fire sprinkler work.
How the Federal Way Permit Review Process Works
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit your permit application through the Federal Way building department. Applications are reviewed for completeness before being assigned to a plan reviewer.
Step 2: Plan Review
The city reviews your submitted plans for building code compliance, structural integrity, fire safety, energy code, and ADA accessibility. Commercial projects are reviewed by multiple departments at the same time.
Step 3: Corrections and Resubmittal
If the city issues correction comments, you will need to revise your plans and resubmit. Each correction cycle adds another review period. Most commercial projects go through 2 to 3 correction cycles.
Step 4: Permit Issuance
Once all review departments approve your plans, the building permit is issued. Schedule inspections as work progresses.
Note: These timelines reflect general review periods. Large or complex projects may take longer. Request a quote from Permit Place for a project-specific estimate, or get an instant due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Federal Way Building Permit Costs
Permit fees in Federal Way vary based on project type and valuation.
Commercial
- Tenant improvements: $500 to $5,000+
- New commercial construction: $2,000 to $25,000+ (based on valuation)
- Plan review fee: typically 50-65% of the building permit fee
Residential
- Small projects (decks, pools, fences): $50 to $300
- Home additions and remodels: $200 to $2,000+
- New home construction: $1,000 to $10,000+ (based on valuation)
For a detailed permit cost breakdown specific to your project, get a free due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Trade Permits
- Electrical: $50 to $500
- Plumbing: $50 to $500
- Mechanical: $50 to $500
Fee ranges are estimates. Actual fees depend on project valuation and scope. Contact the Federal Way building department or Permit Place for exact costs.
Federal Way Building Department
Federal Way Building Department
- Website: epermit.mybuildingpermit.com
- City Website: epermit.mybuildingpermit.com
Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Way Building Permits
How long does it take to get a building permit in Federal Way?
Plan review in Federal Way, WA takes 5 to 30 days for the initial review cycle. Projects that receive correction comments will need additional review cycles, each adding time to the total. Most commercial projects go through at least two review cycles before approval.
Can I speed up the permit process in Federal Way?
The most effective way to speed up the permit process in Federal Way is to submit complete, code-compliant plans on the first attempt. This reduces correction cycles, which are the primary cause of delays. Permit Place helps ensure your application is complete before submission.
Do I need a permit for a tenant improvement in Federal Way?
Yes. Most interior buildouts in Federal Way that involve structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, or HVAC modifications require a building permit. Simple cosmetic changes (paint, flooring, non-structural work) typically do not require a permit.
How much does a building permit cost in Federal Way?
Permit fees in Federal Way are calculated based on project valuation and type. Commercial projects typically pay $500 to $25,000+ in total permit and plan review fees. The exact cost depends on project scope, square footage, and any additional trade permits required.
Can a permit expediter help with my Federal Way project?
Yes. Permit Place expedites building permits in Federal Way and 600+ other jurisdictions. We handle everything from application preparation through plan review, corrections, and permit issuance. Our clients typically get permits faster because we submit complete applications that reduce correction cycles.
What building permits do I need in Federal Way, WA?
Most construction in Federal Way requires a building permit. This includes new construction, tenant improvements, change of use, additions, and major renovations. Separate trade permits for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and fire protection are also typically required. For a project-specific permit requirements report, use PermitNow.io.
Need Help With Federal Way Building Permits?
Permit Place has helped hundreds of businesses get permits in Federal Way and across Washington. We handle everything from application to approval so you can focus on building.
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