Community Development


For Building Inspections please call 253-983-2077

Permit Processes 

 Building Permit application process for Plan Check or Permit:

  • Building permit applications for single family residences or applications with plans need to be turned into our office between 8am and noon. We are not able to print large plans. 
  • Applicants for standard permits will need to submit the building permit application via email to permits@ci.steilacoom.wa.us.
  • Permit Fees: After review of permit applications, applicants will be provided a permit fee amount. Fees may be paid by mail, drop box at 1030 Roe Street or over the phone with credit/debit card (a 3% convenience fee will be applied).
  • Staff will process applications as usual and create the applicable forms.
  • Approved permits or corrections will be emailed to the applicant. Approved permits with plans will need to be picked up at our office.
  • Inspections will occur at the Building Inspector’s discretion.

Planning: Land Use, Pre-Application Permit, or Sign Permit (Temporary & Permanent) application process:

  • Applications may be submitted via mail or Email. 
  • Email to: tanner.fuller@ci.steilacoom.wa.us.
  • Permit Fees: After review of permit applications, applicants will be provided a permit fee amount. Fees may be paid by mail, drop box at 1030 Roe Street or over the phone with credit/debit card (a 3% convenience fee will be applied).
  • All applications submitted will receive an email confirming receipt of the application and a copy of the receipt for any fees paid.


Community Development General Information: 


Community Development is responsible for building permits, historical preservation, subdivisions and land use permits, long range planning, and business licenses.


Building Department

The building department issues all applications for new construction and remodeling. A building packet explaining the permit process, fees, setbacks and height restrictions is available at the front counter, by mail, or as a PDF.  If you have any questions concerning building permits in Steilacoom, please call or email Scott Kenyon at 253-983-2077. 

Resources


Historic Preservation

New construction and changes to the exterior of buildings within the Historic District, as well as all multi-family houses, public structures and commercial buildings, are reviewed for compliance with the Historic Preservation regulations. A map of the Historic District (PDF) and the Historic District Design Standards are available on this website. Information on the process and the Preservation and Review Board are available from Jennifer Schreck, Historic Preservation Officer.

Resources

Subdivisions & Land Use Permits

Items Processed by Planning Department

  • Conditional use permits
  • Critical areas permits
  • Environmental review
  • Lot line adjustments
  • Shoreline permits
  • Subdivisions

For information regarding subdivisions and land use permits, please contact Tanner Fuller.


Resources

Long-Range Planning

The Planning Department is also responsible for long range planning and analysis, and development of policies and regulations to comply with state requirements.


Resources

Questions regarding the Comprehensive Plan, Shoreline Master Plan, and other policy documents should be directed to Tanner Fuller.


Public Application Notice: 

The Town of Steilacoom is now accepting applications for privately initiated amendments to the Town’s Comprehensive Plan for 2024. Amendments may include changes or additions to the text of the plan or changes to the Town’s official Zoning Map or other maps contained in the plan. The Comprehensive Plan provides guidance for land use, economic development, environment, quality of life, housing, transportation, utilities, and parks and recreation. 

Application forms, instructions, and further information can be obtained by contacting Tanner Fuller, Town Planner, at tanner.fuller@ci.steilacoom.wa.us or at (253) 581-1912. Applications must be received by September 30, 2023.


Business Licenses

All persons, corporations, partnerships, and other business entities doing business in Steilacoom are required to obtain a business license from the town.

The Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR), Business Licensing Service, issues Town business licenses through the DOR website: Steilacoom Business License Endorsement

The fee for businesses with headquarters outside town is $75.
 
Businesses located in town pay a fee based on the number of employees.
 
The fee for home-based businesses (home occupations) is $50 for the first year and $37.50 each year thereafter. 
 
For information on DOR business license processing fees go to: DOR Fees

Resources


Other
Garage Sale & Real Estate Open House Sign Permit:

Application


Special Event Process & Requirements: Application & Requirements