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Development Center
The Development Center is Pierce County's central location for Building Permits, Land Use Actions, Site Development Permits, Environmental Reviews, Sewer Utility Permits and Fire Prevention Permits.
Development Center COVID-19 Impacts
On March 22, 2021, the State of Washington advanced to Phase 3 of the state’s “Healthy Washington” reopening plan. We are actively planning for the eventual reopening of our lobby when it is safe to do so and will post updates here. You can also subscribe email updates below.
While our Development Center lobby is not open for walk-in services, our staff continues to provide permitting functions, application intake and review and some types of inspections.
Services available online:
Sign Up for Email Updates
Connect with us
Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
pcpermits@piercecountywa.gov
(253) 798-3739
Natural environment (open space, shoreline, moratoriums)
Possible site constraints (wetlands, hazard areas, flood zones)
Lobby service will resume at the start of Phase 3. Until then, please use our online services.
Save money and time on your deck, detached carport or similar detached structure project with our new Fast Track Permitting. This feature allows you to choose from pre-designed plans with no engineer or architect required. Simply use one of the fillable forms on our website to design to your specification, then submit with your building permit application. A completed form serves as your submitted plan. Please note that a site plan is still needed with your permit application.
Virtual Meetings
Know who you need to see and how we can support you?
Use the Customer Meeting Menu to:
- Choose staff from different areas of expertise as you need, and
- Decide if you would like that staff person to make a site visit, or write you a letter.
The length of your meeting and associated fees will depend on the complexity of the project and the number of staff you'll need to see.
Fees will only be charged for the services you request.
Meeting fees will be credited toward your development application as long as you submit your permit application within 12 months of the meeting date.
Virtual Inspections
A virtual inspection allows the inspector to remotely view the site using a webcam controlled by the inspectee.
To participate, you will need internet access and a portable video streaming device (like a smart phone).
Types of Virtual Inspections Allowed:
- Water and furnace replacements
- Footings and foundation additions
- Insulation
- Re-inspection and final inspections
To schedule a virtual inspection, call (253) 798-2769.
Learn About Fees
Construction permit fees which include fees for building, plumbing, mechanical, and similar construction related permits are issued by the Building Official.
Types of Fees
Building Code Updates
On February 1, 2021, the energy credit requirement changed based on the scope of your project. If you are new to the energy code, Washington State University provides a myriad of resources to help you get up to speed. Changes impact new construction and additions over 500 sq. feet. To determine your project energy credit requirement, please reference the 2018 Washington State Energy Code worksheet. Please note, the worksheet is required for Pierce County project submittal.
References:
Chapter 17C Pierce County amendments to State Building Codes
PPW News and Updates
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Development Center Operations Update
Posted on March 23, 2021
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Introducing Fast Track Permitting for Covered Porches & 1 or 2 Car Garages
Posted on March 18, 2021
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Annual county roadside herbicide applications start March 22
Posted on March 16, 2021
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Annual county roadside herbicide applications start March 22
Posted on March 16, 2021
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Workload Update
Posted on March 8, 2021
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Changes to flood thresholds of White River and South Prairie Creek to aid in flood preparation
Posted on February 23, 2021
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Community Plan Updates effective date moved to October 1, 2021
Posted on February 19, 2021
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Building Code Implementation Extension Repealed
Posted on January 20, 2021
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Third Reminder: February 2021 Fee Changes
Posted on January 20, 2021
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Sewer Line Extension Design Checklist Update
Posted on January 6, 2021
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Wheeled all-terrain vehicles allowed on additional Pierce County roads starting Jan. 1
Posted on December 30, 2020
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Pierce County sewer rates to increase Jan. 1, 2021
Posted on December 21, 2020
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Fast Track Permits for Decks and Detached Carports
Posted on December 17, 2020
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Annual Fee Changes Coming February 1, 2021
Posted on December 9, 2020
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Reconstructed traffic signal system coming to Canyon Road East and 84th Street East
Posted on December 8, 2020
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Apply for a historic preservation grant
Posted on November 24, 2020