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1. I need an inspection. What do I need to do?

Inspection requests are made through permits.bothellwa.gov.  All requests will be logged and assigned to a City Inspector. For next business day inspection requests, inspections must be scheduled by 4pm of previous business day.

2. When is a permit necessary?

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

Other projects which may require a permit include:

• Replacing a water heater or a furnace
• Working in the right-of-way
• Modifications such as removing/adding walls in tenant spaces, or removing/altering backflow devices

3. What do I need for a Residential Addition or Remodel permit application?

Please see the Single Family Addition and Remodel (PDF) checklist. All applications for permit are online through www.MyBuildingPermit.com. 

4. What do I need for a Residential Deck permit application?

Please see the Residential Deck / Porch Permit Submittal Checklist (PDF). All permit applications are through www.MyBuildingPermit.com.  Decks which are accessory to single family residences and are not more than 30 inches above grade (and not over any basement or story, nor part of an accessible route) do not require a permit, but still need to meet zoning requirements for setbacks.

Also, see available deck construction tip sheets at: Guidelines and Tip Sheets | MBP (mybuildingpermit.com).

5. How much do permits cost?

For Building permits, the Permit Fee and Plan Review Fee are based on valuation (market labor and material costs, or square footage multiplier from the latest ICC Valuation Table). Multi-family and non-residential Mechanical and Plumbing permit fees are also based on valuation.

Please also see: Building Fees, Land Use and Planning Fees, Public Works Fees, and Impact Fees.

6. When is a permit not required?

Please see BMC 20.02.095 or the Work Exempt from Permit (PDF) form.

7. How long does it take to review permit applications?

Please see our Permit Processing Timelines form. Many permit applications require more than one review cycle, in order to make corrections on the plans or to add additional information on the plans, to demonstrate compliance with code and provide detailed information for construction.

8. Why are permits and inspections necessary?

Permits are required to be obtained in order to have your construction plans reviewed for code compliance prior to starting the work, and also to have the work inspected. You are responsible for obtaining all required inspections on your permit. Don't forget to get a final inspection.

Also:

It’s a health and safety issue.

• Permit review allows code experts to reduce potential hazards from unsafe construction.
• Mandatory inspections act as a system of checks and balances focused on complying with city codes.

It’s also a money issue.

• Proper permitting helps protect property values.
• More and more, property insurers aren’t covering damages caused by work done without permits and inspections.
• Disclosure of any improvements or repairs is required at sale, whether or not permits and inspections were obtained.
• Many financial institutions won’t finance a purchase without proof of a final inspection.
• Without a permit, work may be subject to removal or other costly remedies.

9. Where can I access the Bothell Municipal Code?

Access the Bothell Municipal Code webpage here.

10. I need to visit the City of Bothell Permit Services Counter. Where is it and what are the hours?

The City’s Permit Services Counter is located at City Hall, 18415 101st Avenue Northeast. The Permit Center in-person counter hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday - Thursday with lunch from 12-1. City Hall doors are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday - Thursday. Permitting staff are also available via email at permits@bothellwa.gov during working hours Monday-Friday, or at 425-806-6400.

11. Do I need a permit to cut down a tree?

Please see this document to determine whether or not you need a permit to remove a tree on private property, whose responsibility a tree in the right of way is, and more information about tree retention.