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.

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Connect with us 

Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
pcpermits@piercecountywa.gov
(253) 798-3739

Development Center COVID-19 Impacts

In an effort to keep our customers and staff safe, the Development Center lobby is not currently open for walk-in service, but permitting services continue. Our staff continues to provide permitting functions, including application intake and review, and some types of inspections.

Apply for a Permit

Steps to help ensure a successful application process:

1
Research the Parcel
Parcel research tools
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General information (zoning, jurisdictions, prior permits) 
Natural environment (open space, shoreline, moratoriums) 
Possible site constraints (wetlands, hazard areas, flood zones)
Septic As-Built Lookup
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Links to Tacoma Pierce County Health Department. You'll need this information if your parcel is serviced by a septic system.
2
Gather Submittal Items
Look up forms by the type of project you want to build, or search through the complete list alphabetically.
Find by project type
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All forms (A to Z)
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3
Create Site Plan
Site plan resources
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A site plan is a vital part of the permitting process. Submitting an incorrect site plan can lead to lengthy delays in your path to permitting success.
4
Submit Application
Submit online
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Upload PDF versions of your submittal materials. We will contact you within a few days with instructions for completing the process.
At the Development Center
Lobby service will resume at the start of Phase 3. Until then, please use our online services.
5
Track Application
Track online
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Look up the status of an application.
Signup for eNotification
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Sign up to receive an email whenever the status of your application changes or a review or inspection is added.
Fast Track Permitting


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.

Schedule a Virtual Meeting or Inspection

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







PPW News and Updates