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Department FAQs
- How big of a shed or accessory structure can I build without a permit?
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It depends on the size of your lot. Check out our GIS map to confirm your lot size and then use the simple chart below:
Lot Size Max Shed Size Max Height Setback from Property Line
(Rear and side yards only)Under 1/2 acre 120 square feet 10 feet 3 feet 1/2 acre and larger 200 square feet 14 feet 5 feet Referenced codes: 18.90.020 Accessory Buildings
- I am thinking about a deck project… When do I need a permit?
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Replacement of top deck boards may be done without a permit, but if you find you need to fix, alter or repair the deck’s framing structure, a permit is required.
If you plan to build a new deck, a permit is required for all decks unless it meets the following three criteria:- Not exceeding 200 square feet in area
- Not more than 30 inches above grade (measured vertically to the grade below at any point within 36" of the outer edge of deck).
- Not attached to the home serving the main egress door.
- How much does a permit cost?
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The cost of permit varies depending on the project. Most permits are based on a project valuation. The project valuation can be determined by the square footage of a new home or addition, or it could simply be based on the contractors construction estimate. As long as the project valuation takes into account the cost of materials and labor at the fair market value*, it can be used to calculate permit fees. We can always run an estimate for you if you need a close dollar amount.
* Fair market value: The valuation to be used in computing the plan review and permit fees will be the prevailing fair market value of all construction work for which the permit is issued, as well as all finish work, painting, roofing, electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, elevators, fire extinguisher systems or any other permanent work or permanent equipment.
- I want to build a fence, do I need a permit?
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Fences located on the rear and side yards that are no more than 6 feet and fences in the front yard setback no more than 4 feet can be built without a permit.
See EMC 18.90.060 Fences, bulkheads, and retaining walls. Fences on non-residentially zoned property have additional design standards, please contact the planning department at 253-952-3299. - What are the construction working hours?
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7:00AM – 7:00PM Monday – Friday
9:00 AM – 6:00PM Saturday
No Construction Sunday and City Observed Holidays
EMC 18.90.140 (G)
- How do I file a Code Compliance request?
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Please contact City Hall at 253-952-3299, or you can send an email to codeenforcement@cityofedgewood.org. You may also use the City's citizen reporting app, SeeClickFix. Please provide all the information available regarding the concern and how staff can contact you to follow-up.
- What is the City's code for overgrown vegetation?
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Edgewood has adopted the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC). Edgewood Municipal Code (EMC) 15.80.230 requires lawns to be 6 inches or less in height, and vegetation on vacant lots to be 12 inches or less.
- Is a permit required to remove a tree?
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Maybe - Edgewood has regulations for significant trees and their removal, but there are several exceptions. Please see the Tree Permit Handout for more information.
- What restrictions are there for commercial vehicles?
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Vehicles over 16,000 GVW, such as semi-trucks and trailers, and storage containers are prohibited on properties where the primary use is residential. Other restrictions apply to commercial vehicles on the roadway, per EMC Chapter 10.05 Commercial Vehicles.
- Can I operate a business from my home?
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There are a few extra rules that try to keep the “home” in “home based business.” Is your business online? Do you have in-person customers, but see less than sixteen roundtrips per day including deliveries and client-related trips? A home business permit may fit your needs. It will allow you to operate a business within your home whether you live in a house, townhouse, apartment, or accessory dwelling unit. For a full list of home occupation standards, please see EMC 18.100.070 and EMC 18.100.080. You may also visit Business License FAQ Answer Page.