Code Compliance

The City of Renton has adopted rules and regulations designed to keep the city safe and attractive by providing responsible, courteous, and impartial enforcement. Code Compliance operates reactively and proactively, working with property owners to obtain compliance. While voluntary compliance is preferred, fines may be issued to property owners who do not work to correct violations.

 

Reporting

How to Report

Express concerns* online via Renton Responds or on our reporting message line at 425-430-7373. You will need to provide your:
     1. Name and contact Information
     2. Address of concern (City of Renton Maps)
     3. Clear description of your concern


Common Violations

Please refer to the Renton Municipal Code for Unlisted Concerns.

*Please note that reporting a potential violation is a serious and legal matter. Reports and comments received are public record and subject to disclosure under the Public Records Act, RCW 42.56. Please do not share any information that you do not wish to be made public.

 

Violations

Responding to a Violation

If you have received any notice from Code Compliance, contact the inspector listed on the notice immediately to take action and prevent fines. Our inspectors are: 

Donna Locher - Lead Inspector
dlocher@rentonwa.gov - 425-430-7438

Jason Churchill - Central Renton
jchurchill@rentonwa.gov- 425-430-7235

Eric Petzold - North Renton
epetzold@rentonwa.gov- 425-430-7277

Sheila Madsen - South Renton
smadsen@rentonwa.gov- 425-430-7236

Charleen Pleasance - South Renton
cpleasance@rentonwa.gov- 425-430-7256


Step 1.Code Compliance Process

Step 1. A Warning of Violation is issued after the violation is verified. You have 15 days to contact the City.

Step 2. A Notice of Violation and an Order to Correct may be issued if the property owner is unresponsive. Fees are included and can accrue daily.

Step 3. If you feel the violation is in error, you may appeal a Notice of Violation within the time frame listed on the notice. A Hearing Examiner will review your case and issue a decision.


Step 2.Paying a Fine

By Mail
Send a check or money order & invoice to:
City of Renton // Finance AR
1055 S Grady Way, Floor 1
Renton, WA 98057

Online
City of Renton Online Billpay

In-Person
Bring Visa, Mastercard, check or money order and invoice to:
City Hall // Finance Department
1055 S Grady Way Floor 1
Renton, WA 98057

 

 

Stop Work Orders

What is a Stop Work Order?

When an inspector verifies that unpermitted work is being performed, a Stop Work Order is posted. Work is required to cease until proper permits are obtained.


Responding to a Stop Work Order

The Stop Work Order will include the contact information of a Code Compliance Inspector, along with instructions to reach out to a Permit Specialist. The Permit Specialist will assist you in obtaining the necessary permits for the approved work. The Code Case will only be closed once the permit is finalized by a building inspector.

Permit Specialists permittech@rentonwa.gov or 425-430.7215

 

Image of residential property in compliance with common violations listed.


Frequently Asked Questions

Construction Hours

Construction hours in Renton vary based on the type of construction and can be reported online:

  • Road Crew / Road Construction: M through F - 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sat - 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sun - None.
  • Commercial Construction (Multi-Family, New Single Family & Other Nonresidential): M through F - 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sat - 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sun - None. 
  • Residential Construction (Single Family Remodel or Addition): M through F - 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sat & Sun - 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Noise Complaints, Animal-Related Concerns & Vehicles Obstructing the Right-of-Way

The Renton Police Department's non-emergency line handles:

  • Real-time noise complaints
  •  Concerns regarding animal safety
  •  Reports of vehicles parked in the right-of-way

Please call: 425-235-2121. Concerns that are not time sensitive may be reported online

Adult Family Homes

If you wish to schedule an Adult Family Home Inspection, please apply for an Adult Family Home Permit on our permitting portal and follow the guidance provided.

Do I need a permit?

Most permits can be obtained using our Online Permit Portal or electronically by contacting our Permit Specialists at: permitech@rentonwa.gov. For more information, visit our permits page. 

 

What can I build on my property?

Contact the Planning Department for guidance at: planningcustomerservice@rentonwa.gov, by phone at: 425-430-7294 or by scheduling a Virtual Appointment.

When to call the Renton Police Department?

If you see something suspicious taking place - don't wait, call: 9-1-1 for emergencies. Non-emergencies can be reported at: 425-235-2121. Visit their webpage for more information.