Find Posts By Topic

New Tree Information Form and Training Now Available

Our new Tree Information Form (TIF) is a tool that will standardize how applicants provide tree information in plan sets. This tool provides a clear table format that supports compliance with Seattle’s tree‑related requirements, including standards for neighborhood residential zones, Green Factor, street trees, environmentally critical areas, and shoreline regulations…. [ Keep reading ]

Subject to Field Inspection Criteria: Expanded and Explained

We’re excited to announce that we’ve updated the subject-to-field-inspection (STFI) criteria to allow more projects to qualify for a construction STFI permit. Subject-to-field-inspection permits are construction permits for small projects that meet certain criteria. They are typically reviewed and issued within just a few business days because they don’t get… [ Keep reading ]

Early Guidance on Tree Protection

We’re happy to announce a new coaching service to support early identification of tree protection requirements. A Tree Pre-Submittal Conference, referred to as a “TreeSub,” provides an opportunity for permit applicants to connect directly with reviewing arborists to discuss tree protection requirements for a proposed project. A TreeSub may include an on-site… [ Keep reading ]

Early Guidance on Environmentally Critical Areas

Recent changes to zoning regulations in Neighborhood Residential (NR) zones require applicants to understand the constraints of some Environmentally Critical Areas (ECAs) on a lot in order to determine the allowable density or lot coverage. The full area of wetlands and their buffers, riparian corridors, and submerged lands and areas… [ Keep reading ]

Thank you for joining us for the 2026 Seattle Home Fair!

We helped more than 90 people with questions about construction, renting, and Seattle codes at this year’s Seattle Home Fair. If you missed the event, we’ve posted the lecture materials on our Seattle Home Fair website. Stay connected with SDCI to learn about upcoming Home Fairs, workshops, and community events…. [ Keep reading ]

Transportation Planner sought to join the Seattle Design Commission

Mayor Katie Wilson is recruiting for a Transportation Planner to join the Seattle Design Commission. The initial two-year term will begin March 2027. You will also be eligible for a second two-year term. We are looking for a transportation planner that is passionate about elevating the design of City capital… [ Keep reading ]

Are You Prepared for Landslides?

Wet weather is approaching Landslide season is approaching, so the City of Seattle is urging residents to take preventive measures to protect themselves and their property from possible landslides. Did you know that most landslides occur between the months of November and March? As snow melts and rainfall continues to… [ Keep reading ]

Time to Inspect Storm Drain Inserts

Builders working in Seattle should inspect and maintain any temporary storm drain inserts they have installed as part of construction projects. The inserts, also known as storm drain socks, are used on many construction projects to catch sediment not captured by other required construction-related erosion control measures. All construction sites… [ Keep reading ]

Free Housing Provider Workshop

Join us for our last Landlord Workshop of the year on November 18 from 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM in the Bertha Knight Landes room at City Hall. We’ll cover Seattle’s rental regulations from preparing a unit for rent to moving a tenant out. Questions are welcome throughout. Training materials will be… [ Keep reading ]

October Publication Updates

Tips New Updated New Director’s Rule