Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.
Permit Center
12-
Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by adopted codes, or to cause such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit. International Residential Code Section 105, Titled Permits Section R105.1 Required.Permit Center
-
Permit Center
To look for open permits in Lake Forest Park click on the green Permit Portal icon. You can then choose to look for permits by clicking to search either Building or Planning (Land Use) title on the first page. You will be able to choose the criteria by which to search. Enter the street number or street name and see all permits located on that street. If you would like to see all permit applications in Lake Forest Park, enter Lake Forest Park in the 'City' field.
-
If you wish to build a fence in a residential neighborhood, you do not need a permit to proceed if the proposed fence is: - in the front yard or 20 feet from the front lot line and less than four feet high; or - in the back yard and less than 6 feet high. You should also be sure of your property lines before you proceed. Check with your neighbors and be sure you are not infringing on any of their property. In addition, fences may not be placed within the sight distance triangles. Please see the Lake Forest Park Zoning Code for details.Permit Center
As for decks, a permit is required per the International Residential Code. Please see the Residential Deck Checklist. -
If you are removing and replacing a roof and it’s like to like material, there are no structural changes, and no replacement of plywood, a permit is not required. If you are removing and replacing a roof and the material is different, there is structural change or there is replacement of plywood, a permit is required.Permit Center
-
Permit Center
A permit is required to remove any significant tree, defined as a tree 6" in diameter (DBH) or greater. In environmentally sensitive areas, a permit is required to remove any tree, regardless of size. View more information in the Permit Center.
-
Permit Center
Electrical systems are regulated, permitted, and inspected by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
-
The easiest option is usually to modify your project to fit the zoning regulations. However, you can challenge the zoning of your area by applying for a rezone or apply for a variance. To understand all your options, contact the Planning and Building Department.Permit Center
-
Permit Center
The restrictions vary depending on the zoning regulations. View Single Family Residential Zoning Information for an initial list of restrictions, but we recommend you consult the Community Development Department to determine any restrictions your property may have.
-
Permit Center
The front lot line is always defined as the lot line at which vehicular access takes place from a public street, private street, access easement, or tract. The rear lot line is the line opposite and most distant from the front lot line. The side lot lines are any other lines that are neither front nor rear lot lines. Special requirements exist for triangular or trapezoidal lots. Contact the Community Development Department for more information.
-
Office hours are 9:00 am –12:00 pm and 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Monday through Friday. Applications will only be accepted at these times.Permit Center
-
Continue to look through the online Permit Centerfor more information, forms, and applications. An in-person visit can help you best understand the process and materials you will need to submit. The Permit Center is located on the first floor of City Hall and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00am-12:00 pm and 1:00pm-3:00pm.Permit Center
-
View the Lake Forest Park Marijuana Zoning Map. Call the planning department if you have any additional questions.Permit Center