Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) has implemented a new process to review on-site sanitary sewer design and off-site points of connection for drainage and wastewater at the same time the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) reviews building permits.
This parallel review process offers several benefits for applicants:
- Fewer building permit revisions after issuance
- Faster issuance of side sewer permits for new construction
- Reduced confusion during design and construction
The sanitary and side sewer review takes place in the Seattle Services Portal under the IPR record type. These records follow the format SPUE‑IPR‑26‑XXXXX.
IPR records are not permits and do not replace construction or side sewer permits. Instead, they provide a way for SPU to share review comments and for applicants to upload revised plans and required legal documents, so you are prepared for a successful side sewer permit submittal.
How the Review Process Works
- IPR records are automatically created for projects with 750 square feet or more of land‑disturbing activity.
- Each IPR record is created from, and listed as a related record to, the construction permit (CN).
- SPU reviews the Stormwater Plan associated with the building permit and attaches the reviewed plans to the IPR record.
- SPU will communicate:
- Required revisions to sanitary and storm side sewer design, including approved discharge points for drainage and wastewater.
- Required legal documents, such as the Memorandum of Drainage Control or other agreements (Side Sewer Easement Agreement; Side Sewer Joint Use and Maintenance Agreement; Side Sewer Release and Indemnification Agreement).
- Applicants should upload requested documents directly to the Seattle Services Portal.
- Any revisions to on‑site stormwater management or drainage lines on private property should continue to be uploaded to the construction permit (CN).
Questions? Send questions to sidesewerinfo@seattle.gov and the SPU team will assist you.