Residential New/Addition

Be sure to check zoning regulations before you submit plans to ensure you will be able to build.

Prior to submittal of a Building Permit, an Engineering Improvement Determination must be completed.

Submittal Requirements

Documents to Submit (each as an individual file):

• Building Permit Application: Completed and signed.
• Site Plan: Include project details, lot dimensions, property lines, and proposed structures (use 8½” x 11” format).
• Erosion Control Plan: Include silt fencing, tree protection, and stockpile locations.
• Construction Plans: Include floor plans, elevations, cross-sections, and special details (drawn to scale).
• Landscape Plan: Include tree planting, berms, and planting details. Show all proposed trees and shrubs.
• Energy Code Checklist: Must be included on the cover sheet of the construction plans.
• Engineering Improvement Determination Results: Include results and required documents as outlined.
• Water and Sewer Availability Form: Provide availability letters if required by the Engineering Improvement Determination. 
  

  If you are on septic, a King County Approval Letter is required at the time of building permit submittal. Visit King County Public Health for assistance.

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

Additional Items to Consider

Resources

Complete the required permit documents as needed for your project. 

Available to Apply Online

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

• Electrical
• Mechanical
• Plumbing
• Residential Photovoltaic
• Re-roof

Process for All Other Permits

No paper documents are accepted at the City of Renton Permit Center. 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. 

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.