Spokane, WA Building Permits Guide
Spokane, WA building permit timeline: Plan review takes 3 to 15 days depending on project type. Expedited review is not currently offered.
Building permit review in Spokane, WA typically takes between 3 and 15 days depending on project type and complexity. The city does not currently offer expedited plan review. This page covers review timelines, required permits, costs, and how to speed up the process.
Spokane Plan Review Timeline
- Initial Application Processing: In Spokane, it generally takes between 1 to 3 days for building officials to receive and assign your permit application to a reviewer.
- First Submission: After acceptance, the review, along with any necessary approval or feedback, typically spans 5 to 15 days.
- Further Submissions: Should your application require additional revisions based on city feedback, subsequent submissions are usually processed within 7 to 14 days.
Currently, Spokane does not offer an expedited review option.
Last verified: June 2025 | Source: Spokane Building Department
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What Building Permits Do You Need in Spokane?
Spokane 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 Spokane Permit Review Process Works
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit your permit application through the Spokane 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.
Spokane Building Permit Costs
Permit fees in Spokane 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 Spokane building department or Permit Place for exact costs.
Spokane Building Department
Spokane Building Department
- Website: my.spokanecity.org/business/residential
- City Website: my.spokanecity.org
Frequently Asked Questions About Spokane Building Permits
How long does it take to get a building permit in Spokane?
Plan review in Spokane, WA takes 3 to 15 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.
What is the difference between residential and commercial permit review in Spokane?
Commercial projects in Spokane require review by multiple departments (building, fire, public works, and sometimes health), which adds time. Residential projects typically involve fewer review disciplines and can be processed faster. Tenant improvements fall between the two depending on scope.
Does Spokane offer expedited permit review?
Spokane does not currently offer a formal expedited review program. However, submitting complete, code-compliant plans on the first attempt is the best way to reduce total review time. Permit Place helps ensure your application is complete before submission.
Do I need a permit for a tenant improvement in Spokane?
Yes. Most interior buildouts in Spokane 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 Spokane?
Permit fees in Spokane 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 Spokane project?
Yes. Permit Place expedites building permits in Spokane 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 Spokane, WA?
Most construction in Spokane 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 Spokane Building Permits?
Permit Place has helped hundreds of businesses get permits in Spokane and across Washington. We handle everything from application to approval so you can focus on building.
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