APPLYING FOR A PERMIT
updated 7/26/22

All Planning and Building Permit applications are now accepted online via our permit portal (SmartGov) and need to be submitted electronically.  We no longer accept paper applications with the exception of construction drawings. 
Please select the appropriate option below for more information.


BEFORE YOU APPLY


When preparing to submit your application, please note that our permitting process is designed to assist the public in steps. Each step includes a checklist outlining how to proceed along with the necessary applications to move forward in the process.  If your project has not received the prior step(s) approval, application(s) submitted out of order will not be reviewed until all applicable approvals have been granted.


PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

Residential
Residential building permits encompass a wide range of projects including single-family residences, duplexes, town homes, accessory structures, alterations, additions, remodels, and/or grading and filling.  The permitting process for a residential project is setup in 3 STEPS and begins with the Site Plan Review application now accepted online via our permit portal (SmartGov).  We no longer accept paper applications with the exception of construction drawings.

Commercial
Commercial building permits are classified as new commercial construction, tenant improvements, alterations, change of use, demolition, accessory structures, alterations, additions, remodels and/or grading and filling.  The permitting process for a commercial project is setup in 4 STEPS and begins with a Pre-application Conference now accepted online via our permit portal (SmartGov).  We no longer accept paper applications with the exception of construction drawings.

Apply Online

INSPECTIONS

Inspections are now accepted online via our permit portal (SmartGov).  Inspections generally occur the following business day after the request is made. In some rare instances, it may occur one or two business days following the request depending on volume and staff availability.  Based on the inspection type and location, Building Inspectors schedule their daily route(s) in the most time efficient manner.  Therefore, requests are not scheduled by time nor are same day inspection requests accepted. 

To submit an inspection request, please login to your portal account by clicking the below icon or call 360-249-4222.  If your project has not received the necessary approvals and been issued, inspections will not be available for scheduling.


Inspection icon



PERMIT VS EXEMPT 


Permits are required for most construction activities in the County.  Below is a list of common projects that require permitting.  Also, included is an inclusive list of work exempt from permitting.  If your project is not illustrated on either list or you are unsure if a permit is required, please contact a Permit Coordinator for further assistance.

PERMIT(S) REQUIRED
(not inclusive)
EXEMPT
(inclusive)

  • New construction
  • Remodels that include structural work
  • Additions
  • Decks (30" or more above grade)
  • Covered patios/carports
  • Garages
  • Storage sheds (larger than 200 sf)
  • Accessory structures (larger than 800 sf)
  • Plumbing
  • Mechanical work (i.e. hot water heaters, propane/gas tanks, ductless heat pump, fire place, etc.)
  • Demolitions
  • Utility work
  • Bridges
  • Grading and filling
  • Driveways
  • Insulation
  • Re-roof if replacing or repairing structural components

 


FAQ's

Still can't find what you are looking for?


Grays Harbor County
Planning & Building Division

100 West Broadway Avenue, #31
Montesano, WA 98563

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