This page provides guidance, data and resources to assist local governments in creating a permit-ready plan program.
Permit-ready plans (also known as pre-approved plans) are professionally created home designs that local governments have approved as being consistent with local zoning, design regulations and building code requirements. Homeowners and builders interested in using these plans can benefit from an expedited building permit process and reduced design costs.
Permit-ready plans are particularly useful for infill housing development where smaller dwelling units can be accommodated on existing lots. Many permit-ready plan programs initially targeted and incentivized detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs), duplexes, cottage housing. Some communities have expanded or considered expanding their program to provide plans for triplexes, townhomes, and other middle housing dwellings.
Permit-ready Plan Explorer
The Permit-Ready Plan Explorer provides access to over 150 permit-ready plans from communities throughout Washington. These professionally developed plans have already been reviewed by a local jurisdiction to ensure that they meet local code requirements.
This dashboard also includes information about local permit-ready plan programs from jurisdictions throughout the state, including links to adopted ordinances.
Program development guidance
This guidance document outlines considerations for local government staff when developing or updating a permit-ready program.