Residential Interior Remodels

Asbestos Survey

Prior to performing any renovation or demolition work, Puget Sound Clean Air Agency  and Washington Department of Labor and Industries regulations require an asbestos survey to be performed to determine whether there are asbestos-containing materials in the work area of structure.

Prior to Applying

Separate permits are required for electrical, plumbing and mechanical work, sprinklers and alarms. No new oil heating systems will be allowed in the aquifer protection areas.

Submittal Requirements

1. Completed and signed Building Application.

2. Construction Plans that include the following:

• Building Area – Provide building area for each floor.
• Floor Layout – Show wall arrangement, proposed use, and dimensions.
• Windows and Doors – Indicate location, dimensions, and opening direction of new/removed/replaced windows, doors, and skylights.
• Fixture Location – Show locations of fans, vents, smoke detectors, bathroom fixtures, etc.
• Wall Section – Include typical wall section with labeled materials, size/spacing of members, insulation, sheathing, siding, barriers, and interior coverings.
• Structural Changes – Structural changes may require plans stamped by a licensed Washington State architect or engineer.
• Energy Code Compliance – Ensure compliance with the Washington State Energy Code (WSEC-R).

3. Washington Energy Code 2021 Checklist . Washington State Energy Code (WSEC-R)

For detailed instructions on each document, please refer to the full Submittal Requirements.

Items to Note

• The person signing the application shall be either the owner or the person responsible for the work, and they shall furnish a reasonable estimate of the value of the job, including material and labor.
• The plan reviewer will check plans but will not do design work. Sizing of structural members and spacing of supports is the responsibility of the owner or builder and must conform to Code requirements.

Resources

Over-the-Counter Permits

The following over-the-counter permits can be applied for, paid for, and printed using our Online Permitting Portal:

• Electrical
• Mechanical
• Plumbing
• Residential Photovoltaic (Solar Panels)
• Re-roof

Electronic Submittal Process

No paper documents will be accepted. When you are ready to submit your application and required documents, follow the steps below to have City staff supply you with a secure file share link. 

STEP 1. Email the Project Name, Address and Scope of Work to: permittech@rentonwa.gov
STEP 2. A Permit Specialist will reply with an FTP link to upload the required files
STEP 3. Allow 5 days for initial application review.
STEP 4. IF COMPLETE, you will be notified of acceptance and given payment instructions. 
IF INCOMPLETE, you will be notified of incomplete requirements and instructions to proceed.

Tip: Review decisions may be significantly delayed by incomplete or inaccurate submittals. Closely follow the Submittal Requirements to prevent delays!

Review Response Times

Over-the-counter permits are typically same day.
Residential first review decisions are typically 2-3 weeks.
Residential revision decisions are typically 1-2 weeks. 

Please note: New application submittals, and revisions to applications in review, are processed on a first in, first out basis. Timelines may vary depending on current backlog and staffing.

Need Additional Help?

Schedule a Virtual Appointment
Email a Permit Specialist: Permittech@rentonwa.gov, or 
Call a Permit Specialist: 425-430-7215

Once your permit is approved, you may begin work and scheduling inspections. Please print a copy of your permit to keep on-site for when your inspector arrives.

Scheduling Inspections

Inspections can be scheduled for the following business day online or by phone at: 425-430-7202.
Telephone Scheduling Help Guide.

Day of Inspection

While we are unable to provide you a time window when scheduling, we are happy to assist on the day of the inspection:

STEP 1: Using our Permit Portal, select "Today's Inspections".
STEP 2: Locate your inspector's name and number by locating your permit (listed alphanumerically).
STEP 3: Phone your inspector to request a time window for arrival.

Tip: See our "What to Expect from your Inspection"(PDF, 957KB)  help sheet to prepare for a successful inspection. 

Review Inspection Status and Notes

To see your inspection status and/or notes from a completed inspection:

STEP 1. Log into our Online Permit Portal
STEP 2. Using the search button, enter your permit number and select search.
STEP 3. Your permit results will appear listing the status of the permit. Click on the blue permit number.
STEP 4. Select "inspections" (center screen).
STEP 5. Select the blue inspection number you wish to review.
STEP 6. Select "Checklist" from the mid-screen menu.

Check out our "Check Inspection Status Online" tipsheet for screenshots and additional help accessing your permit details.