DPD’s next furlough is July 2.
SDOT Street Improvement Permitting (SIP) Workshops
During the past year the SDOT Street Use Street Improvement Permitting (SIP) Section has implemented many changes in the processes and requirements for obtaining approval of Street Improvement Plans. Process improvements have spanned SIP design guidance, formal review, correction cycles, plan approval, and permit issuance processes. In 2010 the SDOT SIP pre-construction, construction, inspection, and project close-out processes and requirements will be modified.
New Monthly Billing for Land Use Projects
DPD is moving toward a monthly billing process for land use applications. When implemented, later this fall, monthly invoices will be sent for land use projects which accrue fees during any given month. Invoices will be sent to the financially responsible party who will have 30 days to pay the invoice and avoid the cancellation and collection process.
New Federal Lead Requirements and How They Affect You…
On April 22, EPA’s Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule went into effect. The rule requires contractors performing renovation, repair or painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child-care facilities, and schools built before 1978 to be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.
EPlan Review Pilot Project Update
Electronic plan submission and review is now in the pilot project stage. DPD will be working with 45 applicants to develop processes and technology for electronic submission and review of plan sets for building and land use permits.
Legalizing Backyard Cottages
The City of Seattle wants to remind homeowners of the grace period through June 30 for legalizing existing unauthorized backyard cottages. Under new regulations that went into effect December 4, 2009, backyard cottages became legal throughout Seattle. Previously, backyard cottages, also known as detached accessory dwelling units or DADUs, had been allowed only in southeast Seattle neighborhoods since 2006. Included in the December legislation is a grace period that allows owners of existing, unauthorized backyard cottages the opportunity to legalize their unit without penalty. Owners have until June 30, 2010 to apply for a building permit and until December 31, 2010 to obtain final inspection of the unit.
Green Permitting
DPD offers a suite of green permitting options aimed at delivering faster, easier and smarter permit reviews for applicants pursuing sustainable development projects. Green permitting supports Seattle’s leadership role in climate protection and furthers City Green Building’s efforts to make sustainable design and construction standard practice.
Land Use Billing Project
The DPD Land Use program is preparing to implement a monthly billing system to support the Master Use permit (MUP) process. Fees for MUPs are charged at an hourly rate, and can vary based on design considerations, project complexity, public interest, appeal hearings, and customer’s preparedness.
Legalizing Backyard Cottages
The City of Seattle wants to remind homeowners of the grace period through June 30 for legalizing existing unauthorized backyard cottages. Under new regulations that went into effect December 4, 2009, backyard cottages became legal throughout Seattle. Previously, backyard cottages, also known as detached accessory dwelling units or DADUs, had been allowed only in southeast Seattle neighborhoods since 2006. Included in the December legislation is a grace period that allows owners of existing, unauthorized backyard cottages the opportunity to legalize their unit without penalty. Owners have until June 30, 2010 to apply for a building permit and until December 31, 2010 to obtain final inspection of the unit.
DPD Service Changes in 2010
Even through the current economic downturn, the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) remains committed to providing quality service to its customers. As you may have heard, DPD has experienced significant layoffs in its Operations Branch. In an effort to continue supporting its core services of plan review, permitting and inspections, DPD will be modifying its services in 2010. This includes the following: DPD business closures — 10 days; reduced land use coaching hours; and making permit/project status available only online.