What can a homeowner do without a permit in Washington state?

Author: Jamey Walsh  |  Last update: Thursday, January 29, 2026

A building permit shall not be required for the following:
  • One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the projected roof area does not exceed one hundred twenty square feet.
  • Fences not over six feet high.
  • Oil derricks.

Do I need a permit to remodel my bathroom in Washington state?

Do I need a permit to remodel a bathroom? You only need to apply for a remodel permit if you are moving walls, changing or tapping into existing plumbing or need the modification to be noted for banking (selling, purchasing, etc.) or other legal purposes.

Can I sue previous owner for unpermitted work in Washington state?

You have legal grounds to sue the previous owner if they failed to disclose unpermitted work. Real estate practices require sellers to disclose any known unpermitted improvements. If the previous owner intentionally hid this information, you might have a case for misleading real estate practices.

What happens if you build without a permit in Washington state?

Since failure to obtain a permit is a violation of City ordinances and state law, fines may be levied. The work may be required to be torn out and redone, or removed completely, either because the work was not done to code, or the work cannot be approved due to building or zoning requirements.

Can a homeowner do their own electrical work in Washington state?

Any professional applying for electrical permits must have a Washington State electrical contractor's license and a Seattle business license. Property owners may do their own work when they own and occupy the property they're working on. Some projects require plan review and are not issued the same day.

When NOT to Get a Building Permit

What electrical work can be done without a license in Washington state?

The like-in-kind replacement of lamps; a single set of fuses; a single battery smaller than 150 amp hour; contactors, relays, timers, starters, circuit boards, or similar control components; one household appliance; circuit breakers; single-family residential luminaires; up to five snap switches, dimmers, receptacle ...

Can a homeowner do their own plumbing in Washington state?

In the State of Washington, Chapter 18.106 RCW contains the rules and regulations governing plumber certification. An owner may perform their own plumbing work. They may also enlist the help of a friend, neighbor, relative, or other acquaintance, as long as they are not compensated.

What is the largest structure you can build without a permit in Washington?

A permit is typically required for sheds larger than 200 square feet.

What happens if you build a bedroom without a permit?

Local governments usually fine homeowners $500 per day for violating building codes. This will depend on the area you live in, let's see some common fines for unpermitted work: For example, if you build without a permit in California, homeowners and contractors are liable, and both need to pay fines.

Can you live off grid in Washington state?

Situated in northeastern Washington, Stevens County has the rural environment and large tracts of undeveloped land, forests, and rivers that people who want to get off the grid yearn for. There is plenty of solitude in the county's remote areas to enjoy off-grid living.

Can you sell a house with unpermitted work in Washington state?

Selling a house with unpermitted work is indeed possible in Washington State, but transparency is key. Sellers are required to disclose this information before the buying process begins.

How do I get unpermitted work approved?

Once the designs for your unpermitted space meet building code, you can apply for a retroactive permit. You'll need to submit all drawings and documentation of the space. Retroactive building permits are special permits that are issued for structures which did not initially receive a building permit.

What happens if you buy a house with an unpermitted room?

You might have to tear the structure down

Having to tear down the addition and build a new, up-to-code replacement is by far the biggest risk buyers face when buying a house with unpermitted additions. Buyers can often apply for a permit for the addition after it's completed.

Do I need a permit to add an interior door?

While replacing existing interior doors with new wood interior doors typically does not require a permit, adding new doors or making structural changes often does.

What requires a building permit in Washington state?

Most new construction, remodeling, and repair work that affect a building or structure will require a permit.

Do I need planning permission to add a toilet?

As with re-fitting kitchens, there's normally no need for planning permission unless the building is listed. Building Regulations are only likely to apply where you decide to add a new bathroom, for example in a former bedroom or storage area. This may include some or all of the following: New drainage.

What happens if I finish my basement without a permit?

Without a permit, your finished basement may be declared as unpermitted work. You may have to pull down the work and begin the entire process of remodeling from scratch. That's a lot of stress for any homeowner. You might like 10 Basement Bar Design Ideas For A Luxurious Outlook.

Do I need a permit to put drywall in my garage?

You'll likely need a permit since this project may require soil grading to avoid drainage issues. Repairing your floor may be more cost-efficient than replacing it if grading is necessary. No permit may be required to hang drywall on exposed wooden wall studs in your garage.

What happens if you put up a fence without a permit?

Building a fence without a permit – Violations and penalties

Usually the fine is $100 per day, for each day the fence exists without a permit. Also, if a fence is installed and does not comply with the codes of your city, the local government will require you to remove it.

Do I need a permit to build a deck in Washington state?

Do I need a permit to build a deck? Yes, a permit is required for construction or alteration of decks attached to a structure, over 200 S.F., or more than 30 inches above grade. A permit is not required for detached decks, not over 200 SF and under 30 inches in height.

What is the minimum square footage for a house in Washington state?

Dwelling units shall have a minimum of 190 square feet (17.7 m2) of habitable space. 1208.4 Room area. Every dwelling unit shall have not less than one room that shall have not less than 120 square feet (11.2 m2) of net floor area.

What happens if you don't get a permit for a shed?

If you install a shed that is in violation of your local building code, you can be faced with a penalty and the cost of relocation or removal.

Can I do my own bathroom plumbing?

While it's possible to plumb an entire bathroom yourself, at least part of this job really should be left to the pros. Rough-in bathroom plumbing is not easy DIY work. If you don't properly install the water lines or drainpipes, you could end up with a leak inside your walls, resulting in significant damage.

What plumbing work can be done without a license in Washington state?

What plumbing work can be done without a license? In Washington, a plumbing license is required to perform plumbing work unless you are the property owner working on your own residence. Licensed plumbers are authorized to perform tasks such as pipe installation, repairs, and maintenance on regulated plumbing systems.

Can I do plumbing work on my own house?

The state of California requires that you must be a licensed contractor to perform plumbing on projects valuing more than $500 in labor and materials.

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