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School plan review
Instructions for K-12 schools with new construction, remodel, additions and playgrounds.
Delays in service due to new permit system: Environmental Health Services has transitioned to a new permit system. Please have patience as we work through this transition time.
To create an account and get guidance on the system, see Public Health Permit Center.
Does my school need a plan review?
The local health department must review and approve all K-12 school construction plans before you can start the building or playground construction project (see Washington Administrative Code [WAC] 246-366-040). In King County, the local health department is Public Health—Seattle & King County (Public Health). When the construction is completed, Public Health must conduct a pre-occupancy inspection before students can use the new or remodeled facilities (including classroom portables and playgrounds).
We must review and approve K-12 school plans before any construction can begin on:
- Building a new school
- Remodeling an existing school
- Adding or moving portables
- Changing an existing building into a school
- Changing sports fields
- Moving or installing specialty classrooms (e.g., science labs)
- Adding a K-12 playground or moving playground equipment
How do I apply for school plan review?
Applications for school building and playground plan review and requests for pre-occupancy inspections are handled through the Public Health Permit Center. See detailed guidance below:
What are the school fees?
- Base fee (covers 2 hours): $504.00
- Additional fee (for time beyond base 2 hours): $252/hour
Other types of reviews and inspections your school may need
- Public Health's Private school certification inspections to meet the approval requirements by the Washington State Board of Education or Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction for Non-Public Agency schools
- Food Protection Program inspects permitted food facilities at K-12 schools, Public Health – Seattle & King County (PHSKC)
- Application for Permanent Food Plan Review, PHSKC
- Water Recreation Facility Plan Review, PHSKC
- Plumbing and gas piping applications and permits, PHSKC
- Guidance on Operating a Licensed Child Care Program, WA State Dept. of Children, Youth, and Families
- Current Nonpublic Agencies, WA Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction