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1. What are the benefits of a building permit?

There are several advantages to doing home improvement projects with a building permit. Topmost, is that getting a permit brings you the services of the building inspector. The inspector approves each phase of the construction process to ensure work is done safely and properly. Inspectors can also advise on how to proceed if you get stuck.
Secondly, there are legal and financial liabilities that you face when you do not get a permit. Work without a permit is illegal and could pose serious complications when you try to sell your property. It there is a fire in your house, your insurance company may use the illegal work as an excuse not to pay on your claim.
Building without a permit may result in added cost, and even an order to stop construction, until the proper permits have been obtained.

2. Am I required to get a building permit?

Building permits are needed for all building, plumbing, mechanical (such as installations of furnaces and water heaters) and electrical work, including alterations, conversions, interior remodeling work, re-roofing or demolitions.
Electrical permits are issued through the state Department of Labor & Industries at 1-800-547-9411. Permits related to work on manufactured homes are also under the authority of L&I.
Permits for both the City of Dayton and Columbia County can be obtained at the Planning and Building Department. If you are unsure if you require a building permit, feel free to call or stop by our office.
114 S. 2nd Street
Dayton WA, 99328
(509) 382-4676 Building Permit Process

3. What work is exempt from a permit?

Examples of items that are exempt from permitting include:

• One-story detached residential accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet.
• Fences not ever 6 feet high.
• Retaining walls that are not over four feet high (48”) measured from the bottom of footing to top of wall.
• Sidewalks and driveway paving.
• Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting,cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work.
• Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches deep
• Swings and other playground equipment
• Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.

If you are unsure whether your project requires a permit or not, call the Planning and Building Department at 509-382-4676.

4. What about zoning?

The Zoning Ordinance of Columbia County regulates residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural development within the county. The City of Dayton has its own Zoning Ordinance as well. In an attempt to maintain the design and character of your neighborhood, the codes impose certain regulations about where you can build on your property and how big your house may be. The codes contain provisions and limitations on proposed development, such as:
• Allowed, conditional use and accessory land uses
• Allowed density of areas and development intensity of properties.
• Minimum (or maximum) lot sizes and lot dimensions
• Building setbacks from easements and property lines
• Maximum lot coverage or floor area ratio requirements
• Height limitations of structures

Although building permits are not required for some projects, planning staff approval may be necessary.

Please contact the Planning staff at (509) 382-4676 for the specific provisions of your property or visit us at:
Columbia County Planning and Building
114 S. 2nd street
Dayton WA, 99328
Columbia County Code