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Spokane Valley, WA Building Safety: Plumbing Permits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Governing code
Uniform Plumbing Code, WA amendments
Local amendments
None; section is 'Reserved'
Application validity
One year, extensions up to 180 days
Permit expiration
Two years from issuance if unstarted
Unpermitted work fee
Investigation fee equal to permit fee
Max misdemeanor fine
$1,000 and 90 days jail

Summary

Spokane Valley governs plumbing work through the Uniform Plumbing Code, adopted with Washington State amendments at SVMC § 24.40.020(A)(6). A permit is required before any plumbing system work starts, and the city left the code unamended locally, applying it as the state adopted it.

Pursuant to Chapters 19.27 and 19.27A RCW, and Chapter 51-50 WAC, the City adopts the Washington State Building Code, as presently constituted or subsequently amended, together with all amendments and additions provided in SVMC Title 24. The adopted code includes: ... 6. Uniform Plumbing Code and Uniform Plumbing Code Standards, as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, including Washington State Amendments (Chapter 51-56 WAC).

View official code

Full Breakdown

040, the Uniform Plumbing Code entry in that same section reads simply 'The Uniform Plumbing Code. Reserved,' meaning Spokane Valley enforces the state-amended UPC with no city-specific changes of its own. 030(B)(5), which lists plumbing among the systems that cannot be worked on 'before obtaining necessary permits' without penalty. 030(B)(4). 010, not through the model code's own appeal provisions.

Violations & Fines

Beginning plumbing work before a permit issues triggers an investigation fee under § 24.40.030(B)(5) equal to the permit fee that would have applied, owed regardless of whether a permit is issued afterward. General code violations, including unpermitted plumbing work, are also subject to § 1.10.010: a misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000 and 90 days in jail, or a civil infraction of at least $250, with each day of the violation a separate offense under § 1.10.020.

Frequently Asked Questions

What plumbing code applies in Spokane Valley?
The Uniform Plumbing Code and Uniform Plumbing Code Standards published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, including Washington State Amendments in Chapter 51-56 WAC, adopted at SVMC § 24.40.020(A)(6).
Does Spokane Valley amend the plumbing code locally?
No. Section 24.40.040(E), where the city writes local amendments for other adopted codes, simply says 'The Uniform Plumbing Code. Reserved,' so the state-amended UPC applies without any Spokane Valley-specific changes.
What if I do plumbing work without a permit first?
You owe an investigation fee equal to the permit fee under § 24.40.030(B)(5), on top of the eventual permit fee, and the payment does not make the unpermitted work legal or guarantee a permit will follow.

Sources & Official References

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All Spokane Valley rules

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