The Seattle City Council has announced significant changes to fees related to construction and inspections as part of its 2026 budget. This decision will impact residents and builders throughout the city, particularly affecting the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI). The majority of fees will increase by 6.5 percent, bringing the SDCI’s base hourly rate to $292 per hour. In addition, Construction Permit and Master Use Permit fees will see a substantial rise of 18 percent year-over-year.
The Council has indicated that these adjustments are necessary to maintain timely review processes and sustain essential services. This increase coincides with a notable shift in development trends, including a rise in smaller-scale projects following the pandemic. While the adjustments are extensive, they will not apply uniformly across the board.
Clarifications and Reductions in Fees
The SDCI is also making technical changes to clarify costs associated with tree reviews when no construction is proposed. This initiative aims to streamline the process while eliminating special accommodations that can complicate fee structures. Additionally, the SDCI has made efforts to simplify the understanding of fees related to land use letters and preliminary meetings.
In contrast to the overall fee increases, certain permits under the Unreinforced Masonry program will experience a reduction in fees. This move is intended to encourage property owners to undertake seismic improvements on their buildings, enhancing safety in the event of an earthquake.
Revamping Electrical Permitting
In conjunction with the general fee adjustments, the SDCI is revamping its electrical permitting process. Following an extensive study, the department aims to update the Electrical Permit fee table to reduce confusion and minimize redundant requests. This update is designed to decrease the time staff spend correcting errors, ultimately leading to a more efficient application process without increasing revenue.
Landlords can also expect modifications to the Rental Registration and Inspections Fees. These adjustments are intended to align the fees with the ongoing operational costs of the program. The SDCI has announced that the updated Director’s Rules, along with the revised BVD table and other fee-related details, will be available on their website by the end of this month.
The Seattle City Council’s adjustments reflect a broader strategy to ensure that the city can effectively manage growth and development while maintaining essential services for its residents and builders.
