The rainy season is rapidly approaching, which means it’s time to think about whether you will be doing any grading between November 1 and March 31. If your project includes Geotechnical Special Inspections AND if your project is in an environmentally critical area or involves a large quantity of earth-moving, check… [ Keep reading ]
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: This… [ Keep reading ]
What is changing? Starting January 1, 2026, Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) will introduce: Why are these changes being made? Extending utility mains to undeveloped properties can be costly. The new program is designed to: How will these changes to System Development Charges impact me? Many factors go into the calculation… [ Keep reading ]
After 6 years of collaboration with city departments and the development and design community, SMC 23.54.040 will be updated effective October 5, 2025. The Solid Waste storage, access, and collection code now reflects long-time guidance and best practices for safe and efficient solid waste collection. It is effective across all… [ Keep reading ]
Since Seattle weather is notoriously overcast for much of the year, many building owners and architects want to install structures to provide weather protection on roof decks. Although they may be outside of the building envelope, these structures are considered a part of the building area and need to comply… [ Keep reading ]
After years of planning, October 1 marks the official transfer date of side sewer work from SDCI to Seattle Public Utilities (SPU). The SPU team has worked hard on this transition and welcomes 9 employees from SDCI to help ensure a seamless customer service experience. What will change? What won’t… [ Keep reading ]
What’s changing? A new over-the-counter (OTC) sprinkler permit option is now available in the Seattle Services Portal. Projects on existing systems affecting 24 or fewer sprinklers can receive an OTC permit. This change can save customers 3-7 weeks in permitting while eliminating sprinkler plan review fees and reducing inspection fees for… [ Keep reading ]
Dear Community Partners: Tuesday, Mayor Bruce Harrell released the 2026 Proposed Budget. In this budget, Mayor Harrell is continuing investments and bold actions to address the needs of our communities and advance our One Seattle priorities. Mayor Harrell’s balanced budget proposal remains focused on strengthening public safety, creating housing affordability… [ Keep reading ]
What’s Happening? On June 30, 2025, Seattle implemented the HB1337 and HB1110 Compliance Bills (Ordinances 127211 and 127219), proposed by Mayor Harrell and adopted by the City Council. These Land Use Code changes align with state laws, increase housing supply, and diversify housing options in residential zones. The changes create… [ Keep reading ]
