Garage conversion rules in Redmond, WA — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Converting a garage to living space in Redmond requires a building permit and often qualifies as an attached ADU under RMC 21.08; parking replacement, egress, and energy code compliance are required.
Converting an attached or detached garage into habitable space in Redmond requires a building permit from Development Services and review for compliance with the International Residential Code, Washington State Energy Code, and RMC zoning provisions. If the conversion creates a separate dwelling unit with its own kitchen and entrance, it is treated as an Accessory Dwelling Unit under RMC 21.08, which Redmond now allows up to two ADUs per single-family lot under WA HB 1337. Conversion requirements include proper egress windows in sleeping rooms, at least one habitable ceiling height of 7 feet, insulation meeting the Energy Code, heating adequate to reach 68 degrees F, smoke and CO alarms under RCW 19.27.530, and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets. Off-street parking replacement requirements were reduced by HB 1337, but local zoning may still require at least one space. Converting a garage in a critical area or steep slope hazard area triggers RMC 21.64 review. Unpermitted conversions create resale disclosure issues and insurance problems.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Redmond, WA
Redmond does not ban gas leaf blowers, but restricts their use to daytime hours under RMC 6.32. Residential yard equipment is permitted between 7 AM and 10 P...
Redmond, WA
Industrial-source noise received in Redmond residential areas may not exceed 60 dBA daytime and 50 dBA nighttime under RMC 6.32 and WAC 173-60. Overlake and ...
Redmond, WA
Redmond generally allows overnight residential street parking within the 72-hour continuous-parking limit. Downtown time zones, snow events, and posted no-pa...
Redmond, WA
Redmond restricts on-street RV and boat parking to 72 hours and regulates driveway storage under RMC Title 21. Many zones limit the number of recreational ve...
Redmond, WA
Redmond regulates driveway width, surfacing, and apron construction under RMC Title 21 and Public Works standards. Residential driveways are typically 10-24 ...
Redmond, WA
Standard residential fences up to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 4 feet in front yards do not require a building permit in Redmond. Permits are needed for...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle garage conversions.
See how Redmond's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.