Building
The Planning and Community Development Building Team works diligently to safeguard public health, safety, and general welfare. We perform commercial and residential plan review and inspections of all structures and properties within the City of Port Townsend, which ensures compliance with adopted building codes.
If you would like to meet in person to go over your plan review comments, please call to schedule an appointment.
The Permitting Services front counter accepts development applications Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. until further notice.
Building Codes
Adopted Building Codes:
- City of Port Townsend Municipal Code - Chapter 16
- International Code Council
- International Building Code
- International Residential Code
- State Building Code Council
- Washington State Energy Code
Design Criteria
|
Snow Load, Ground |
20 PSF FROM 0' - 200' ELEVATION 25 PSF > 200' ELEVATION |
|
Wind Speed |
110 MPH |
|
Climate Zone |
4C (MARINE) |
|
Wind Exposure |
B ASSUMED |
|
Seismic Category |
D2 |
|
Frost Depth |
12 INCHES |
|
Soil Bearing |
1,500 ASSUMED |
Residential Building Permits
To help our customers with the permitting process, we have checklists, forms, and handouts for application submittal items and code requirements. Please note that work within a critical area, shoreline, or historical district may require additional land use permits through our Planning Division.
Commercial Building & Multi-Family Permits
A commercial building permit is required for new construction and when changes or alterations are made to a commercial and/or multi-family building. Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work also require permits. When an electrical permit is required through Labor and Industries a commercial building permit application with a scope of work is required. Plans may be required depending on the scope of work.
