Agencies
During the permit application process, you may be dealing with a number of county and state agencies. The following list may help familiarize you with some of these agencies and the part they play.
Snohomish County Agencies:
- Department of Planning and Development Services (PDS) is the primary agency responsible for processing building permit and land use applications. They review all permits to determine the steps required to complete the process. Different types of projects require different permit review steps. Contact: (425) 388-3311
- Department of Public Works (DPW) assesses the potential impact on County traffic patterns which would be created by a proposed permit application. They analyze the design to insure safe traffic movement and conditions. They assess the proposed project for drainage, creation of streets, alleys, bridges and other issues related to the public transportation system. Contact: (425) 388-3488
- The County Hearing Examiner is the decision-maker for all permits requiring a public hearing. The Hearing Examiner also considers and rules on modifications and variations to code requirements, and makes decision on appeals for permits issued by the PDS staff. Contact (425) 388-3538
- The County Council reviews and rules upon decisions by the Hearing Examiner, accepts dedication of new County road rights-of-way, and adopts the County codes. Contact: (425) 388-3494
- The County Parks Department determines the impact of proposed projects on County parks and recreational facilities. Contact: (425) 388-6620
Washington State Agencies:
- Snohomish Health District (SHD) reviews short subdivisions for compliance with health regulations with regard to on-site sewage disposal, septic tanks and drain fields, and on-site potable water supply. A written statement of compliance with health regulations is required for project approval. Contact: (425) 339-5270
- Department of Fish and Wildlife sets standards and regulates building projects involving streams, stream corridors and watershed issues. Contact: (360) 902-2534
- Department of Transportation (DOT) is similar to the County Department of Public Works; the Department of Transportation or DOT issues permits for projects that will access from or impact the Washington State Highways. Contact: (360) 664-9494
- Department of Ecology (DOE) evaluates environmental documents relative to development projects for compliance with Clean Air and Clean Water Acts adopted by the State. Contact: (206) 649-7000
Other Agencies
- Utility Companies - Local water districts must be contacted to confirm service availability.
- School Districts - Local school districts can require construction of sidewalks and other planning features to accommodate children walking to and from school and can request rulings on issues impacting their district.