Washington, Chelan County Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Chelan County Building & Safety Division
The Chelan County Community Development Department, specifically its Building Division, acts as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for building and safety matters within the county. They are responsible for enforcing construction codes, including the International Codes with Washington State Amendments, and ensuring public health, safety, and welfare. The division handles permit application intake, plan reviews, permit issuance, and construction inspections.
Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas
Chelan County issues building permits exclusively for properties located in unincorporated areas. If a property is within an incorporated city, that city's building department is responsible for permit issuance, not the county.
Permit Triggers for Demolition Work During a Remodel
Demolition work during a remodel generally requires a permit. The Chelan County Demolition Permit Application specifically addresses demolition and renovation work. Any demolition or significant alteration, repair, move, or change to a building or its systems typically requires a permit.
Permit Requirements for Converting Non-Living Spaces
Converting non-living spaces such as garages, attics, or unfinished basements into habitable living areas requires a building permit. The converted space must meet the same code requirements as new construction.
- Garages: Converting a garage into living space requires a permit and plans. The new space must be fully insulated to current standards. Bedrooms in converted garages need egress windows or doors. Openings directly into the garage from new living spaces are not permitted.
- Attics: Attics converted to living space require specific insulation levels (e.g., R-49) and ventilation. If the attic space is 30 inches or more in height and 30 square feet or more in area, an access opening is required.
- Unfinished Basements: Finishing a basement, including adding bedrooms or other rooms, requires at least a building and electrical permit. Habitable space in a basement must have a minimum ceiling height of 84 inches (7 feet). Bedrooms require an egress window or a door directly to the outside, and the egress window sill cannot be more than 44 inches above the finished floor.
Resources to Learn More
Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Washington, including Chelan County.
Washington Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Washington State Building Codes for Remodelers and Residential Renovations
Washington State adopts and enforces building codes based on the International Code Council (ICC) model codes, with state-specific amendments. The primary goal is to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of building occupants and the public. Local jurisdictions adopt and enforce these state codes, with the ability to implement local amendments that are not less strict than the state code.
1. Adopted State Statutes and Codes
As of March 15, 2024, Washington State has adopted the 2021 editions of the International Codes, replacing the 2018 editions. This includes:
- 2021 International Building Code (IBC)
- 2021 International Residential Code (IRC)
- 2021 International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
- 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC)
- 2021 International Fire Code (IFC)
- 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)
- 2021 Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) - Commercial and Residential
- National Electrical Code (NEC) (NFPA 70)
The State Building Code Council is in the process of adopting the 2024 editions of these codes, with an effective date anticipated for May 3, 2027.
2. Primary State Board or Agencies
The Washington State Building Code Council (SBCC) is the primary state agency responsible for adopting and maintaining the building codes used in Washington State. The SBCC advises the Legislature on building code issues and approves or denies local amendments to the state building code that affect single-family or multi-family residential buildings.
The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) also plays a role, particularly concerning electrical permits and inspections in some areas.
3. Classification of Remodels and Demolition Guidelines
Washington law generally distinguishes between cosmetic and structural alterations. The need for permits and licensed professionals depends on the scope of the work:
- Cosmetic Remodels: These typically involve superficial changes that do not affect the structure, safety systems, or major components of the home. Examples include painting, wallpapering, installing new flooring over an existing subfloor, replacing kitchen cabinets without moving plumbing or electrical, or replacing countertops. Generally, these do not require a permit or a licensed contractor.
- Structural Alterations: Projects that impact the home's structure, electrical, plumbing, gas lines, or mechanical systems require licensed professionals and permits. This includes converting attics or basements into habitable living spaces, moving load-bearing walls, altering the home's frame, upgrading electrical systems, installing or moving plumbing lines, or major HVAC work.
Demolition Guidelines:
- A demolition permit is generally required to remove a building or structure, or a portion thereof.
- Exceptions may exist for small accessory structures (e.g., sheds under 120 or 200 sq ft, depending on the jurisdiction) or when demolition is part of a larger construction project and can be included in the main building permit.
- Prior to demolition, an asbestos survey is typically required, and notification must be provided to the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.
- Demolition work must often be completed within a specific timeframe (e.g., 30 days), and the site must be left in a safe and sanitary condition, often requiring proper disposal of debris and site restoration.
- Demolition of buildings over a certain size (e.g., 12,000 sq ft) may require environmental review under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).
Resources to Learn More