On September 24, 2025, Mayor Harrell signed Ordinance 127299. This legislation makes permitting requirements easier for small businesses by removing 2021 Seattle Existing Building Code (SEBC) Section 311.1.1 substantial alteration requirements when the building or space has a gross area of 7,000 square feet or less.
The legislation also:
- Removes vacancy greater than 24 months from the definitions of substantial alteration. This makes it clear for business owners that vacancy alone will no longer trigger substantial alteration requirements
- Clarifies that a partial change of occupancy of less than 20 percent of the gross building area will not trigger substantial alteration requirements
- Clarifies through an SDCI informative note that alterations where the only proposed scope of the project is converting space and/or water heating systems from fossil fuel or resistance to heat pump systems will not trigger a substantial alteration designation
This legislation goes into effect on Oct 24, 2025. We are currently revising TIP 314 to reflect the new legislation. Permit applications received after the effective date can use the new legislation. For more information about applying this legislation to an issued permit or a permit still in review, please contact Kevin Solberg.
For questions regarding this legislation, please contact:
Kevin Solberg
Structural Plans Engineer Supervisor, SDCI
kevin.solberg@seattle.gov
Please reach out to Peter Fuerbringer at Peter.Fuerbringer@Seattle.gov for permit assistance through the SDCI Small Business Expedited Program.
Resources for small business including How to Start a Business are available through the Office of Economic Development. Please contact Kat Durning at Kat.Durning@Seattle.gov for information.