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The Development Services Department has revived the Express Permit program — a streamlined process that has proved highly effective in the past.
The express process is now available for applicants, exclusively on the City’s civic access portal.
Originally introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, Express Permits are designed to fast-track certain simple building projects, ensuring permit issuance within five business days. This program helps save time for applicants, especially those associated with the Home Builders Association.
The projects eligible for Express Permitting are:
- Factory sheds over 200 square feet
- Engineered pole buildings
- New covered patios or pergolas
- Replacement of an existing covered patio or pergola
- Interior remodels that do not include structural elements, removal of any wall, creating a new opening or enlarging an existing opening. An example of structural element is a load-bearing wall.
- Alteration of a residential structure that includes construction drawings stamped by a Washington state licensed design professional.
- Retaining walls greater than 4 feet total height with engineered plans
- Residential photovoltaic systems
- Residential decks
In cases where the City determines that an application does not meet Express Permit requirements, it will be moved into the regular review process. The regular review process is estimated to take between four to six weeks, based on the completeness of the application, the complexity of the project, the number of applicable codes and standards, and other factors.
If you have questions about how to access this process or need assistance, please contact Permit Coordinator Pam Ransier at pransier@wallawallawa.gov.
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