What's new with King County Permits?

King County Permits and You: Partnering for Success

Watch our new video to see how King County Permits is improving the permit process. Discover the latest changes designed to reduce delays, streamline applications, and enhance your overall experience.

Together, we’re partnering for success as we strive for more efficient and effective permitting solutions.

A special thanks to our partners at Pierce County for their invaluable collaboration and support in making this video possible!

New King County review timelines

On January 1, 2025, King County introduced new review timelines. These changes are designed to improve efficiency, transparency, and predictability, making it easier for you to complete your application process successfully.

Application review process

Within 28 days of submitting your application, you will receive a notification indicating whether your application is complete or incomplete:

If your application is complete:

• You will be prompted to pay the required fees.
• Once the fees are paid, your application will advance to the review process.

If your application is incomplete:

• You will receive detailed instructions on the corrections needed.
• After making the necessary corrections, your application can be resubmitted for reconsideration.

Once fees are paid and the application is confirmed as complete, it will progress into the review process, where it will be assigned to one of three categories:

• Application types which require no public notice or public hearing: 65 days
• Application types which require public notice: 100 days
• Application types which require both public notice and public hearing: 170 days 

Other agency approval requirements

To avoid delays in your application or project, be sure to obtain all requirements from other agencies such as with Public Health or The Historic Preservation Program. You will need to apply for and obtain approval from these other agencies prior to submitting your application with King County Permits.

Is your property serviced by a septic system?

• If so, please submit your application with King County Public Health for review and approval. Once you have your approval you can make application with King County Permits for your building, land use, or site development permit.
• Be sure to include your approval from Public Health when resubmitting your application with us.
• If you do not have the proper approvals from Public Health, your application will not be considered a complete application, and you will be required to complete this step before reapplying with us.  

Is your property flagged as possibly Historic?

• During the screening and intake phase of your application with us, it may be determined that your property is flagged as possibly Historic. If so, we will let you know and provide you with instructions on next steps for obtaining a Cultural Resources Determination. 
• Be sure to include your approval from The Historic Preservation Program when resubmitting your application with us.
• If you do not have the proper approvals from The Historic Preservation Program, your application will not be considered a complete application, and you will be required to complete this step before reapplying with us.  

New forms, checklists, and information sheets

• Our updated checklists outline all requirements to help you submit a complete application packet.
• Submitting a complete application is key to reducing delays and maximizing your chances of acceptance.

View new forms, checklists, and information sheets. 

Stay informed

• Don't miss out on important updates—Bookmark this page and check back often for the latest updates, tools, and resources.
• We are committed to keeping you in the loop with the most recent changes and enhancements to King County Permits.