Getting Started and FAQs

IT'S THE LAW

Work requiring permits are made such by City Ordinance. Work without a permit may be subject to removal or other costly remedies.

So, before you start a project, see if a permit is required.

HELPS PROTECT PROPERTY VALUE

Your home or business is an investment. If your construction project does not comply with the codes adopted by your community, the value of your investment could be reduced. 

SAVES MONEY

Property insurers may not cover work or damages caused by work done without permits and inspections. 

MAKES SELLING PROPERTY EASIER

When property is sold through a multiple listing association, the owner is required to disclose any improvements or repairs made and whether permits and inspections were obtained. Many financial institutions will not finance a purchase without proof of a final inspection. If you decide to sell a home or building that has had modifications without a permit, you may be required to tear down the addition, leave it unoccupied, or make costly repairs.

IMPROVES SAFETY

Your permit allows the code official to reduce potential hazards of unsafe construction to provide for public health, safety, and welfare. By following code guidelines, your completed project will meet minimum safety standards and will be less likely to cause injury to you, your family, and your friends or future owners. Mandatory inspections complement the contractor’s experience and act as a system of checks and balances, resulting in a safer project.

In general, new construction and alterations or repairs to existing structures or systems require a permit.

Some projects that may require a permit include:

• Changing the layout of a home
• Adding on to a home
• Building a deck or dock (new or repair)
• Removing Trees
• Replacing a water heater or furnace

All permit applications are submitted online at www.mybuildingpermit.com .  This regional portal offers 24/7 online permitting services where you can:

• Apply for your permit
• Upload plans and documents
• Pay online
• Check you permit status
• Request and cancel inspections

Fees come in two categories:

1. Submittal Fees: These are fees you pay when you apply for your permit and cover plan review.
2. Issuance Fees: These are fees you pay when your permit and approved plans are issued. They generally cover inspection and administrative services and may include impact fees, where applicable.

Check the status of your permit and find permit history at www.mybuildingpermit.com

Under state law, the City of Sammamish is obligated to provide written notification to all homeowners regarding the contractor registration requirements set forth in the Revised Codes of Washington (RCW), Chapter 18.27, and to advise homeowners of the risks associated with using an unregistered contractor. 

Under the Sammamish Municipal Code SMC 16.05.030, construction is allowed:

• Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Construction is not allowed on Sundays or on New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, or Christmas Day. 

Submitting the required application is the first step in the permitting process.  The goal for the City of Sammamish review staff is to complete our work within timeline targets and decide whether or not the application can be approved. 

Right-of-Way – all public streets and property dedicated to public use for streets, together with public property reserved for public utilities, transmission lines and extensions, walkways, sidewalks, bikeways or equestrian trails.