Kennewick, WA Permit Requirements: Renovation Permits (2026)

Kennewick administers and enforces the Washington State Building Code locally. Construction permits are governed by KMC Chapter 15.08 (Building Code) and the State Building Code Act at Chapter 19.27 RCW. The Washington State Building Code Council (SBCC) adopts the I-Codes statewide at WAC 51-50 (IBC), 51-51 (IRC), 51-52 (IFGC), 51-54A (IFC), 51-56 (Uniform Plumbing Code), and the Washington State Energy Code at WAC 51-11R (Residential) and 51-11C (Commercial). IBC Section 105.2 and IRC Section R105.2 (as adopted in Washington) list work that does NOT require a building permit: one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, not exceeding 200 square feet (note: Washington's adoption keeps the 200-sq-ft IRC threshold for one- and two-family dwellings); fences not over 7 feet (Washington amendment - higher than the 6-ft model code threshold in some Washington jurisdictions); retaining walls under 4 feet measured from bottom of footing; sidewalks and driveways on private property; painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinetry, counter tops, and similar finish work; window awnings; movable cases, counters, and partitions under 5 feet 9 inches; replacement of plumbing fixtures with similar fixtures that do not require new piping; and in-kind repair work that does not involve structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or gas-piping changes. A permit IS required for everything else, including: additions; alterations involving structural members; removal of load-bearing walls; new electrical circuits or service upgrades (which also require a separate Washington L&I electrical permit, because electrical work in Washington is permitted through L&I rather than through local jurisdictions); new plumbing or gas piping; mechanical equipment replacements; decks and porches over 30 inches above grade; swimming pools and spas; window replacements that change the rough opening; siding replacements; re-roofs with structural changes; and any change in occupancy classification. Commercial plans must be sealed by a Washington-licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect under Chapter 18.43 RCW (Engineers) or Chapter 18.08 RCW (Architects). Permits are issued by the Kennewick Building Safety Division at 509-585-4276; the Washington State Building Code requires that work commence within 180 days after permit issuance and be completed within the time stated on the permit. The Kennewick Building Department uses a Tier 1 / Tier 2 / Tier 3 site-plan packet system for new construction and major remodels.