A dedicated fund is used exclusively to finance department operations, affording us flexibility in dealing with the fluctuating demands for services that meet the unique needs of our community.
The Permit Center, located on the main floor of the Public Works Building, is designed to provide for the majority of County land use, development, permitting and construction plan review functions at a single, convenient location. In most cases, the Center eliminates the necessity of traveling to other buildings for information, clearances or approvals.
|
Who Needs Codes and Regulations? |
The consumer need for adequate levels of public services at home and work, together with the public need for coordinated land use planning efforts, underscores the need for modern land use and construction codes and their administration. Washington state and local governments have enacted laws pertaining to these matters to protect the health and welfare of its citizens and the overall environment.
State law requires comprehensive land use planning, with the development of common goals and coordinated growth plans among local governments within the County. Reducing urban sprawl, creating efficiency in urban development and transportation systems, affordable housing, protection of the environment and open space and controlling the subdivision of land are all objectives of these planning efforts.
State law also requires construction code enforcement services, including permits, plan reviews, and site inspections. Code enforcement programs in the community are a key to successfully implementing land use plans, providing life safety in the use and occupancy of buildings, controlling fire and property losses, and reducing structure insurance rates. Today's codes also address issues of accessibility and energy conservation.
Whether it's new development, construction or the repair/alteration of existing buildings, the Building and Planning Department plays an invaluable role in ensuring the economic well-being and safety of the entire community. .
|
Services Overview |
|
Benefits of Our Services |
- All permitting, plan review and inspection services are provided in-house
- Project coordinators are assigned to all land use actions and commercial construction projects
- Pre-application meetings are held with the applicant, architect, contractor, and any affected agencies
- Footing/foundation inspections are available with only 4 hours advance notice
- Same-day inspections for other types of work are available, if requested by 9 A.M.
- Weekend inspections are available, if necessary
- Inspectors are available via two-way radios and cellular phones
- The Washington Survey and Ratings Bureau rated the Spokane County Building Department within the top 5% of all building departments nationwide, saving new building owners the maximum insurance premium possible for wind/snow and seismic protection
- Self-supporting through permit activities, no tax revenues are taken from the General Fund
- Convenient toll-free number: 1-800-27-CODES
- Combination Permits for Single-Family dwellings
- Fast Track Permitting
