Permit processing time varies depending on the project, but averages from six to eight weeks. Public hearings requirements also vary depending on activity proposed. The Growth Management Act, which became law in 1990, amended the State Building Code to require that building permit applicants provide proof of an adequate supply of potable water for the purposes of the building. The departments of Ecology and Health developed guidelines to help local governments verify the adequacy of water supplies for individual buildings. This permit process is used to consider special conditions on a development.
Conditional uses are land use activities that are subject to public hearing.
They may have conditions attached in order to minimize conflict with neighboring uses. If a project is located in a mapped floodplain, the local government must require that a permit be obtained prior to development. Proposed projects are reviewed and conditions imposed on any permits issued to reduce the potential for damage from floodwater. Permits are required for development as well as for filling or grading activities in the floodplain. Permit processing time varies by jurisdiction and project complexity.