Seattle Bathroom Remodel Permits 2026
Seattle bathroom remodel permit fees, plan review, and required inspections for 2026.
Seattle Bathroom Remodel permit basics
- Building department: Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI)
- Department URL: https://www.seattle.gov/sdci
- Permit fee typical: $150 - $900 permit fee
- Plan review + approval: 10-25 business days; plan check 6-12 weeks
- Inspections required: 3-5 inspections (rough plumbing, rough electrical, framing, final)
Seattle Bathroom Remodel common issues
Ventilation requirements (50 CFM minimum), GFCI placement, waterproofing in showers (tile + grout no longer accepted as waterproof).
Seattle-specific permitting context
Seattle SDCI has strict energy code (Stretch Code). Tree ordinance affects site work. ADU streamlined permitting. WA L&I license required for all contractors.
Climate factors: Mild winters with persistent rain (moss/moisture on roofs); rare snow loads; minimal AC historically but warming trend
Washington licensing for Bathroom Remodel contractors
Washington Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) - required: $117 (initial) + $12K bond + insurance. Board: https://www.lni.wa.gov.
Mechanics lien deadline in Washington: 90 days from last work. Preliminary notice: Pre-claim notice required within 60 days of first furnishing for residential.
Seattle Bathroom Remodel sales tax
Washington sales tax: 6.5% + local (~9.3% combined avg) + 0.471% B&O. WASHINGTON TAXES CONTRACTOR LABOR. Retail Sales Tax applies to total construction contract (labor + materials) on speculative builders. Custom construction taxed differently.
Verify with the Washington Department of Revenue.
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