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1. How big of a shed or accessory structure can I build without a permit?

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 Structures 

15.05.060 (C) IRC Section R105.2 Amended

2. I am thinking about a deck project… When do I need a permit?

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. 

3. How much does a permit cost?

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. 

4. I want to build a fence, do I need a permit?

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. 

5. What are the construction working hours?

7:00AM – 7:00PM          Monday – Friday          
9:00 AM – 6:00PM         Saturday                           
No Construction             Sunday and City Observed Holidays 
EMC 18.90.140 (G) 

6. What are the minimum Wind and Snow loads in the City?

Wind:   85 mph Residential 
Snow:   25lbs Ground Load Residential 
Please refer to ASCE 710 for minimum design loads not found in EMC 15.05.060 (O). 

7. How do I know the buildable area of my lot?

This widely depends on a few different factors regulated by other departments. 

1. Zoning – what is the zoning and standard setbacks for the lot 
2. Shape of Lot – the shape of your lot can alter the required setbacks 
3. Critical Areas – If you lot contains critical areas such as (but not limited to) wetlands, wetland buffers or steep slopes. 

Use our GIS Mapping tools to determine your lot restrictions. Contact the Planning Department if you have any questions.  

8. Do I need a permit to install a roof?

Any repair or replacement of any roofing material does require a building permit.  

9. Do I need a permit to install a pool or spa?

A permit is required for all above ground, in ground and on-ground swimming pool, hot tub, spa or wading pool, if the water depth is over 24 inches. 

10. Do I need a permit for the installation of rockery or any type of retaining wall?

All rockeries or retaining walls exceeding four feet in height (from the very bottom to the top of     the wall), or that supports any load/weight (surcharge) above or behind it would require a permit. 

11. Do I need a permit for plumbing work?

A permit is required for the installation, alterations or relocation of plumbing systems and/or associated fixtures. All work associated with potable water (such as a hose bib, refrigerator ice maker, etc.), drain, waste or ventilation system require a permit. Like in kind replacement of basins and toilets are exempt from permit.  

12. Do I need a permit for mechanical work?

A permit is required for the installation, alterations or relocation of mechanical systems and/or associated fixtures. All work associated with exhaust systems (such as bath fan, range hoods, etc.), HVAC systems (such as air conditioning units, furnaces, heat pumps, etc.) would require a permit. Portable “plug and play” style appliances are exempt from permit. 

13. Ok so I need a permit, how do I apply?

Check out our Apply for a Permit page to learn more about the permitting process, where to find permit forms and how to submit your application online through our permitting portal.  

14. Are the any outside agencies that I need to consider for my permit?

• Septic Systems – Contact the Tacoma Pierce County Health Department  
• Sewer Connections – The city works with various sewer purveyors. Contact our Public Works Department for help determining if sewer is available for your property.  
• Water Purveyor – check out our GIS map to see which water company services your property.  
• Power and Gas – Contact Puget Sound Energy for all power and natural gas questions.  
• Electrical Permits – Contact Labor and Industries (L&I)

15. I am the homeowner, can I obtain my own permit and do the work myself?

Yes. As the owner of the property, you are entitled to obtain a permit and complete the work yourself. If you intend to complete the work yourself, an Owner as Contractor affidavit must be submitted with your permit application. See our Permit Forms page to get a copy of the Owner as Contractor affidavit form.