Garage conversion rules in Spokane, WA — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Garage conversions to living space are allowed in Spokane under HB 1337 ADU rules. Require building permits for framing, electrical, plumbing, insulation, egress windows, and WA State Energy Code compliance.
Spokane allows garage-to-ADU conversions under SMC Title 17C and WA HB 1337. Converting a garage to habitable living space or an ADU requires full building permits addressing framing alterations, insulation to WA Energy Code (R-38 ceiling, R-21 walls, R-30 floor typical), mechanical HVAC, plumbing if adding bathroom or kitchen, electrical service upgrades, and code-compliant egress windows in sleeping areas. Minimum ceiling height is 7 feet. Conversion permanently removes off-street parking, but under HB 1337 parking replacement is not required within one-half mile of frequent transit. Building address numbers and separate utility metering may be required. Fire separation from the main house is required for attached ADUs. Floodplain conversions face additional FEMA elevation restrictions.
Unpermitted conversions: stop-work orders, retroactive permit fees, and possible reversal if non-compliant. Selling a home with unpermitted conversion can trigger disclosure issues.
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See how Spokane's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
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